Estimating in Building Construction

by Peterson, Steven; Dagostino, Frank R.

• ISBN13: 9780130604057
• ISBN10: 0130604054
• Edition: 7th
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2011-01-01
• Publisher: Prentice Hall

Summary

Everything needed to understand Estimating is provided in this proven handbook, which combines coverage of principles with step-by-step procedures. The authors use the popular approach of tracing a complete project's progress throughout the book.Incorporates the use of computers as a key estimating tool. Includes a WinEstimator CD with each copy of the book; readers will develop good computer-based estimating skills through the use of this powerful software, which also includes practice spreadsheets. Keeps readers up to date on the latest methods and materials. Includes a revised and updated illustration program. Provides complete, book-long case studies for follow-through of both commercial and residential buildings. Examines the interrelationship between contract documents and the quantity take-off of material.The ideal reference for construction managers, architects, and engineers.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Estimating.
2. Contracts, Bonds, and Insurance.
3. Specifications.
4. The Estimate.
5. Computer-Assisted Estimating.
6. Overhead and Contingencies.
7. Labor.
8. Equipment.
9. Excavation.
10. Concrete.
11. Masonry.
12. Metals.
13. Wood.
14. Thermal and Moisture Protection.
15. Doors and Windows.
16. Finishes.
17. Electrical.
18. Plumbing.
19. Heating, Ventilating, and Air-Conditioning.
20. Profit.
Appendix A: Drawings and Outline Specifications of a Small Commercial Building.
Appendix B: Drawings and Outline Specifications of a Residence.
Appendix C: Drawings and Outline Specifications of a Small Commercial Building.
Appendix D: Common Terms Used in the Building Industry
Appendix E: Conversions.
Appendix F: Spreadsheets on the CD.
Index.

Excerpts

The sixth edition continues to build on the strong foundation of the previous editions. The need for estimators to understand the theory behind quantification is critical and must be fully understood prior to performing any computerized estimating. This underlying premise has been one of the guiding principles that began with Mr. Dagostino and continues with the current author. This edition uses extensive examples and exercises to demonstrate methodology and estimate organization. Estimating is an art that relies heavily on the judgment of the person performing the takeoff. Since the estimate is used throughout the project, the assumptions and methodologies assumed must be documented and organized so subsequent users will have access to this knowledge.A new feature in this edition is a section of Internet resources at the end of every chapter that addresses quantification. There are website addresses for vendors and trade associations. These resources provide the most up-to-date information on materials and methodology.This edition contains a CD with WinEst and spreadsheets that were used in the book. These spreadsheets can be used as templates to assist in organizing an estimate. They were created using Excel 2000 and are compatible with other software packages (See Appendix G for more information).This edition contains a number of commercial and residential drawings in the back of the book. These drawings are included to give the user an appreciation of the "digging" for information that is required to prepare an estimate. The needed information may be found on a number of different sheets and must be accumulated and combined to develop an accurate answer. These drawings are also used as the basis of the exercises found at the end of every chapter.In addition, particular thanks are due to Robert W. Turney Turnkey Construction Management Institute, Inc., and Wayne D. Reynolds, Eastern Kentucky University, for their assistance with the sixth edition text review.