Publisher's Synopsis
Estimating Building Costs
Wayne J. DelPico
Step–by–Step Methods for Successful Contractors
Estimating is not a simple task, and estimates are not guesswork. No one ever purchases "about a dozen 2 x 4s" or agrees to pay a subcontractor "around $5,000." Accurate construction estimating is an essential skill of every successful contractor. Without it, you take on a heavy burden of risk, or you fail to be competitive.
Every contractor has a unique system for putting a bid together ... but when you submit a price, you must be prepared to back it up with a reliable estimate. This book gives you a step–by–step process for organizing all the information you need to assemble an estimate you can rely on... so you′ll be competitive and know that you′ll make a worthwhile profit.
Follow these methods and you′ll create well–organized, complete estimates by:
Correctly interpreting plans and specifications.
Developing accurate and complete labor and material costs.
Understanding direct and indirect overhead costs ... and accounting for time–sensitive costs.
Using historical cost data to generate new project budgets.Plus hard–to–find, professional guidance on what to consider so you can allocate the right amount for profit and contingencies.
Includes a detailed look at every construction specialty explaining all the components, takeoff units, and labor–hours — for site work, concrete and masonry, framing, roofing, siding, and finish work — plus HVAC, plumbing and electrical, and special construction.
With a review of computer estimating software – and sample Project Overhead Sheets
