Construction Estimating Using Excel

Construction Estimating with Excel, Second Edition,introduces readers to the fundamental principles of estimating. Using drawing sets, real-world exercises, and examples, the text offers students critical estimating experience. The book moves step-by-step through the estimating process, discussing the art of estimating, the quantity takeoff, how to put costs to the estimate, and how to finalize the bid. As students progress through the text they are shown how Microsoft Excel can be used to improve the estimating process. Because it introduces spreadsheets as a way of increasing estimating productivity and accuracy, the book can help both beginning and experienced estimators improve their skills.

PREFACE

PART I: INTRODUCTION TO ESTIMATING 

1: The Art of Estimating  

2: Overview of the Estimating and Bidding Process>

3: Introduction to Excel  

 

PART II: THE QUANTITY TAKEOFF  

4: Fundamentals of the Quantity Takeoff

5: Concrete  

6: Masonry  

7: Metals

8: Woods, Plastics, and Composites

9: Thermal and Moisture Protection 

10: Openings  

11: Finishes

12: Fire Suppression  

13: Plumbing  

14: HVAC  

15: Electrical

16: Earthwork

17: Exterior Improvements

 18: Utilities

 

PART III: PUTTING COSTS TO THE ESTIMATE  

19: Material Pricing

20: Labor Productivity and Hours

21: Labor Rates  

22: Equipment Costs  

23: Crew Rates 

24: Subcontract Pricing  

25: Markups  

26: Pricing Extensions 

27: Avoiding Errors in Estimates

 

PART IV: FINALIZING THE BID  

28: Submitting the Bid 

29: Project Buyout 

30: The Estimate as the Basis of the Schedule 

31: Ethics  

 

PART V: ADVANCED ESTIMATING WITH EXCEL  

32: Converting Existing Forms 

33: Creating New Forms

34: Proposals and Beyond

 

Appendix A: Review of Estimating Math

Appendix B: Sample Job Cost Codes

Appendix C: Sample Labor Productivity Rates 

Appendix D: Model Scopes of Work  

Appendix E: Glossary 

Appendix F: Index of Drawing Sets