Few aspects of a construction project are more fundamental than the cost estimate, which can mean the difference between a professionally executed project and a financial and legal disaster. Properly handled, a construction cost estimate can protect both the contractor and the client from losing money on a project. The estimate is the first step toward a successful project. For contractors, therefore, the knowledge required to construct an accurate price estimate is critical.
Estimating Building Costs for the Residential and Light Commercial Construction Professional provides this knowledge in a thorough and comprehensive guide. It takes readers step-by-step through the process of constructing a cost estimate, and provides guidance for incorporating cost estimates into budgeting, scheduling, project management, and more. The result is a fundamental guide to this critical aspect of the construction industry.
Readers of the third edition of Estimating Building Costs for the Residential and Light Commercial Construction Professional will also find: - Fully updated text to reflect the new CSI MASTERFORMAT™ 2020 - Analysis of cost considerations, quantity takeoff, pricing, and more - Step-by-step guidance for developing a comprehensive cost estimate - All-new sections covering scope of work, wage scales in the US, and a project overhead checklist - Considerations for adding profit and contingencies to an estimate
Estimating Building Costs for the Residential and Light Commercial Construction Professional is an essential resource for contractors in residential and light commercial construction, as well as students studying construction management and construction estimating.
Table of Contents
Preface xv
About the Author xvii
Introduction xix
CHAPTER 1 The Basis of the Estimate 1
CHAPTER 2 Understanding the Specifications 21
CHAPTER 3 Calculating Linear Measure, Area, and Volume 43
CHAPTER 4 The Quantity Takeoff and Pricing Phases 55
CHAPTER 5 Understanding the Cost Elements of a Unit Price 81
CHAPTER 6 Division 1--General Requirements 95
CHAPTER 7 Existing Conditions 107
CHAPTER 8 Concrete 123
CHAPTER 9 Masonry 153
CHAPTER 10 Metals 193
CHAPTER 11 Wood, Plastics, and Composites 219
CHAPTER 12 Thermal and Moisture Protection 257
CHAPTER 13 Openings 299
CHAPTER 14 Finishes 333
CHAPTER 15 Specialties 379
CHAPTER 17 Fire Suppression 409
CHAPTER 18 Plumbing 421
CHAPTER 19 Heating, Ventilating, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) 443
CHAPTER 20 Integrated Automation 465
CHAPTER 21 Electrical 469
CHAPTER 22 Communications, Electronic Safety, and Security 497
CHAPTER 23 Earthwork 507
CHAPTER 24 Exterior Improvements 533
CHAPTER 25 Utilities 559
CHAPTER 26 Profit and Contingencies 583
CHAPTER 27 Estimating by Computer 595
CHAPTER 28 Conceptual Estimating 613
Solutions to Questions And Problems 619
Index 655
