Mechanical and electrical estimating is the process of quantifying and calculating costs for mechanical, HVAC, and electrical systems in construction projects. It involves analyzing plans, researching material and labor costs, considering complexity, and using specialized software.
Using the per-point method, each fixture – power socket, switch or sensor – is counted as a point assigned a common monetary value. This has its pros and cons, but it can be a quick way to gain an estimate.
Scope of Work
In mechanical estimating, it is important to take accurate measurements of the project’s scope. This is done through a quantity takeoff, or by reviewing blueprints to create an equipment schedule. This is used to create a request for quotation (RFQ) and send it out to suppliers or subcontractors that deal with the specific materials needed. This process allows the estimating team to get quotes quickly and reduces the amount of back and forth that is typically involved in the estimating process.
An experienced estimator can usually look at a plan and estimate what the job will cost, especially if it is a type of project they’ve worked on before. However, this method is very open to error – if an estimator isn’t familiar with the specifics of a project then it could be difficult to accurately estimate what is required.
Using an electrical estimating software tool like Countfire makes this process much easier, as you can import your takeoff quantities and use the pre-built pricing tables that are included with the software to automatically price up most of your estimate. This can save you a lot of time and ensure that your estimates are accurate. This is important because it can make the difference between winning and losing a tender. It is also a good way to demonstrate your expertise and build a rapport with clients.
Material Requirements
Mechanical cost estimators must be aware of the specific materials that will be required in order to produce accurate estimates. These can include everything from pipes, wires and ducting to electrical conduits, switches, panels and sensors. Incorrect material requirements can result in higher costs, so it is essential that this information is gathered carefully.
It is also important to consider labour units when estimating commercial mechanical projects. This is where various labour costs are packaged together to make a single unit cost, such as installing a power socket will be one unit and mounting a sensor may be another. This is a more efficient and effective way to estimate than calculating individual labour rates for each job component.
Using mechanical estimating software can help with this. For example, Countfire’s software can import takeoff quantities (with just one click!) and then price items as you add them to your estimate, based on previous pricing from similar projects. This saves time and reduces the risk of errors.
A key factor to successful commercial mechanical estimating is collaboration. By involving multiple team members who have the right knowledge and expertise, you can ensure that all aspects of the project are considered and that any potential issues or expenses are accounted for. By doing this, you can create a well-rounded estimate that is more likely to be accepted by clients.
Market Rates
Mechanical projects often require specialized skill sets or large amounts of time to complete. These variables can make labor cost estimates difficult to figure out. Using past experience is one method, but a trusted expert can help minimize errors and increase accuracy. Another important factor is the type of project. Complex tasks may need a higher level of expertise, raising wages or even hiring more staff to work on them.
Many electrical contractors rely on estimating software to keep tabs on every piece of equipment they use, warehouse and install. Twenty years ago contractors flew by the seat of their pants, relying on manual tools such as bewildering charts and pencil-smeared logbooks to organize inventory, estimate projects and track their work. Today’s contractors turn to sophisticated estimating software that offers multiple features including estimating, inventory management, CAD accounting and product purchasing.
Choosing the right electrical estimating software will streamline your entire estimating process from a bill of materials to a completed project. A quality program will offer a vast electrical item database and tens of thousands of pre-built assemblies. The database will also link to a distributor pricing service, like TRA-SER. This means that you can obtain accurate pricing data directly within your system, rather than calling in or manually calculating prices with outdated information. Moreover, the software should allow you to transfer that data into your proposal with a single click.
Trustworthy Estimates
Maintaining transparency during mechanical estimating is essential to the success of construction projects. It helps clients feel confident that their project will be completed with efficiency and within their desired budget. As a result, mechanical estimators must be able to provide trustworthy estimates that are accurate and reflective of current market conditions.
To do this, they must review architectural plans, conduct site visits to assess existing conditions, and analyze material specifications to create a reliable estimate that factors in any possible changes to the scope of work. It also requires utilizing cost databases to keep up with current labour and material costs and ensuring that their pricing strategy aligns with market trends.
Additionally, it is crucial for mechanical estimators to understand the project requirements in order to ensure that they include all necessary services. If the scope of work is unclear, it will be necessary to clarify it with an RFI (request for information) or else the estimate may end up missing important elements.
It is also helpful for mechanical estimators to collaborate with engineers and project managers during the estimating process. These professionals can offer guidance on electrical systems, load calculations, and energy efficiency requirements. They can also share information about the project timelines, schedules, and client expectations. This collaboration ensures that the estimates are comprehensive, aligned with the project’s goals, and accurate.