This comprehensive reference explains everything you need to know about taking off and pricing detailed, unit price construction estimates. The book takes you through every step of the estimating process — from receipt of the plans, to detailed quantity takeoffs and pricing, to bidding strategies, and finally, cost control. Also includes electronic estimating forms you can access to download and customize from the book’s own website. Organized for quick reference, the book features: Estimating guidance for every segment of construction by CSI MasterFormat division — the most recognized industry standard for organizing construction projects and costs Checklists and forms to streamline the estimating process What to watch out for — common errors and omissions How to calculate and apply direct and indirect costs, including overhead and profit A complete, fully updated sample cost estimate An appendix with labor hours for common construction operations

Explains and demonstrates the methods and procedures of Unit Price Estimating, from the plans and specifications to the estimate summary. Special Features: -- Fully updated sample estimate by MasterFormat division -- Discussion of computerized estimating methods -- Companion guide to Means Building Construction Cost Data

Presents an accessible approach to the cost estimation tools, concepts, and techniques needed to support analytical and cost decisions Written with an easy-to-understand approach, Cost Estimation: Methods and Tools provides comprehensive coverage of the quantitative techniques needed by professional cost estimators and for those wanting to learn about this vibrant career field. Featuring the underlying mathematical and analytical principles of cost estimation, the book focuses on the tools and methods used to predict the research and development, production, and operating and support costs for successful cost estimation in industrial, business, and manufacturing processes. The book begins with a detailed historical perspective and key terms of the cost estimating field in order to develop the necessary background prior to implementing the presented quantitative methods. The book proceeds to fundamental cost estimation methods utilized in the field of cost estimation, including working with inflation indices, regression analysis, learning curves, analogies, cost factors, and wrap rates. With a step-by-step introduction to the practicality of cost estimation and the available resources for obtaining relevant data, Cost Estimation: Methods and Tools also features: Various cost estimating tools, concepts, and techniques needed to support business decisions Multiple questions at the end of each chapter to help readers obtain a deeper understanding of the discussed methods and techniques An overview of the software used in cost estimation, as well as an introduction to the application of risk and uncertainty analysis A Foreword from Dr. Douglas A. Brook, a professor in the Graduate School of Business and Public Policy at the Naval Postgraduate School, who spent many years working in the Department of Defense acquisition environment Cost Estimation: Methods and Tools is an excellent reference for academics and practitioners in decision science, operations research, operations management, business, and systems and industrial engineering, as well as a useful guide in support of professional cost estimation training and certification courses for practitioners. The book is also appropriate for graduate-level courses in operations research, operations management, engineering economics, and manufacturing and/or production processes.

Simplify the estimating process with the latest data, materials, and practices Electrical Estimating Methods, Fourth Edition is a comprehensive guide to estimating electrical costs, with data provided by leading construction database RS Means. The book covers the materials and processes encountered by the modern contractor, and provides all the information professionals need to make the most precise estimate. The fourth edition has been updated to reflect the changing materials, techniques, and practices in the field, and provides the most recent Means cost data available. The complexity of electrical systems can make accurate estimation difficult, but this guide contains all the necessary information in one place. An electrical estimate represents the total cost for materials, labor, overhead and profit, but accuracy is virtually impossible without a basic knowledge of the field, and real-world experience in the type of work required. Inaccurate estimates lead to problems with customer satisfaction, which often create payment issues. A thorough, complete, and accurate estimate is in the best interest of all parties involved in the work. Electrical Estimating Methods provides more than just data. Detailed discussions about the work itself help highlight factors that may escape notice, and access to the latest cost data helps tie everything together. Features include: Discussion of current equipment, materials, and processes Means data for both residential and commercial projects Case studies that illustrate best practices Online access to the latest Means data for fast access on the job The book discusses specific situations as well as general practices, and provides comprehensive guidance to the creation of a true, current, estimation of costs. For electrical contractors and estimators, Electrical Estimating Methods contains must-have content that simplifies the estimating process.

An easy-to-use tool for estimating heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems, with up-to-date cost data and estimating examples. This all-in-one reference gives you the accepted standards and procedures for takeoff and pricing HVAC systems, as well as piping, plumbing, and fire protection. Includes all of the major mechanical systems in new building construction. The book will show you how to: Evaluate mechanical plans and specs so you can estimate all cost components Measure, quantify, and perform takeoffs for materials, labor, and equipment Identify and correctly apply direct and indirect costs, including overhead and profit Use forms to improve accuracy and efficiency – with electronic forms now available on the book’s own website Compare materials and methods and select the most cost-effective way to get the job done Train new estimators with clear instructions for estimating the mechanical trades Make the best use of RSMeans Mechanical Cost Data and RSMeans Plumbing Cost Data Organized for easy reference, the book gives you quick access to whatever aspect of mechanical estimating you need. It includes a glossary of mechanical terms and definitions – plus symbols used on mechanical plans, useful formulas, checklists, and conversion tables.

Simplify the estimating process with the latest data, materials, and practices Electrical Estimating Methods, Fourth Edition is a comprehensive guide to estimating electrical costs, with data provided by leading construction database RS Means. The book covers the materials and processes encountered by the modern contractor, and provides all the information professionals need to make the most precise estimate. The fourth edition has been updated to reflect the changing materials, techniques, and practices in the field, and provides the most recent Means cost data available. The complexity of electrical systems can make accurate estimation difficult, but this guide contains all the necessary information in one place. An electrical estimate represents the total cost for materials, labor, overhead and profit, but accuracy is virtually impossible without a basic knowledge of the field, and real-world experience in the type of work required. Inaccurate estimates lead to problems with customer satisfaction, which often create payment issues. A thorough, complete, and accurate estimate is in the best interest of all parties involved in the work. Electrical Estimating Methods provides more than just data. Detailed discussions about the work itself help highlight factors that may escape notice, and access to the latest cost data helps tie everything together. Features include: Discussion of current equipment, materials, and processes Means data for both residential and commercial projects Case studies that illustrate best practices Online access to the latest Means data for fast access on the job The book discusses specific situations as well as general practices, and provides comprehensive guidance to the creation of a true, current, estimation of costs. For electrical contractors and estimators, Electrical Estimating Methods contains must-have content that simplifies the estimating process.