Chapter 1: Introduction to Estimating

(1)

What information is contained on the working drawings?

The working drawings are the actual plans (drawings, illustrations) from which the project
will be constructed. Those drawings contain the dimensions, locations of building elements,
materials required and delineate how they fit together.
(2) What information is contained in the specifications?
Specifications are written instructions concerning project requirements that describe the
quality of materials to be used and their performance.
(3) What is the relationship between the working drawings and the specifications?
The working drawings usually contain information relative to design, location, dimensions,
and construction of the project, while the specifications are a written supplement to the
drawings and include detailed information pertaining to materials and workmanship.
(4) How does the work involved in being an estimator for a general contractor differ from that
of an estimator
who works for a subcontractor?
The estimator for the general contractor is responsible for a detailed estimate for the
whole project. They must compile costs on everything that is integrated into the project
and put it together into a bid for the entire project. An estimator for a subcontractor will
prepare an estimate only for the part of the project for which they will be involved. For
example they may be bidding only the masonry on the project.
(5) What is the difference between doing a quantity takeoff and doing a full detailed
estimate?
A quantity takeoff (QTO) is an estimate of the amount of in place materials required for
the construction of a project. A full estimate is a detailed estimate of the part that covers
everything required for the construction of the project.
(6) What additional skills must the estimator have to be able to take a quantity survey and turn
it into a detailed estimate?
(a)
Must be able from looking at the drawings to visualize the project through the
various phases of construction.
(b)
Must have enough construction experience to possess a good knowledge of job
conditions including methods of handling materials on the job.
(c)
Must have sufficient knowledge of labor performance and operations so that
you can convert them into costs on a project.
(d)
Must have the ability to keep a fund of information on costs of all kinds
including those of labor, material, overhead, and equipment, as well as knowledge
of the availability of all the required items.
(e)
Must be able to use computer hardware and software and know how to
manipulate the various databases available or how to build databases.
(f)
Must be able to meet bid deadlines and still remain calm. Even in the rush of
last-minute phone calls and the competitive feeling that seems to electrify the
atmosphere just before the bids are due, you must keep your cool.
(7) What is the difference between competitive and negotiated bidding?
Competitive bidding involves each contactor submitting a lump sum bid in competition with
other contractors to build the project. In most cases the lowest lump-sum bidder is

awarded the contract to build the project as long as the form and proper procedures have
been followed and that are able to attain the required bonds an insurance. Negotiated
bidding involves the contractor working with the owner (or thorough the owners architectengineer to arrive at a mutually acceptable price for the construction of the project. It
often involves negotiations back and forth on materials used, sizes, finishes, and other
items, which affect the price of the project.
(8) What are the preliminary methods of estimating? How may they be of help to the general
construction estimator?
Preliminary Estimates (Volume & Area). The volume method involves computing the number
of cubic feet contained in the building and multiplying that volume by an assumed cost per
cubic foot. Using the area methods, you compute the square footage of the building and
multiply that by an assumed cost per square foot. Both methods required skill and
experience in adjusting the unit cost to the varying conditions of each project. The amount
of information required to produce these types of estimates is much less than with the
detailed estimate. For example, a preliminary set of design drawings would have the
dimensions for determining the area or volume. These types of estimates are helpful to
check on whether the project as designed is within the owners budget.
(9) What are the contract documents, and why are they so important?
The Contract Documents comprises the Owner-Contractor Agreement, the General Conditions
of the Contract, the Supplementary General Conditions, and the Drawings and Specifications,
including all Addenda incorporated in the documents before their execution. All of these taken
together from the contract. These documents provide the legal basis for the construction of
the project.
(10)Why is it important to bid only from a full set of contract documents?
It is important to bid from a full set of contract documents to be certain you have all of
the required information. If part of the documents are missing that portion of the project
would most likely by left out to the bid. Errors of omission can be catastrophic for a
contractor.

Chapter 2: Contracts, Bonds and Insurance

(1)
What is a single contract and what are its principal advantages and disadvantages for the
owner?
The single contract comprises all of the work required for the completion of a project and is the
responsibility of a single prime contractor. This centralization of responsibility provides that one
of the distinctive functions of the prime contractor is to plan, direct and coordinate all parties
involved in completing the project. All of the subcontractors (including mechanical and electrical)
and material suppliers involved in the project are responsible directly to the prime contractor, who
in turn is responsible directly to the owner. The prime contractor must insure that all of the work
is competed in accordance with the contract documents, that the work is completed on time, and
that all of the subcontractors and vendors have been paid.
(2)
What is a separate contract and what are the principal advantages and disadvantages for
the owner?

Under the system of separate contracts, the owner signs separate agreements for the construction
of various portions of a project. In this manner the owner retains the opportunity to select the
contractors for the various important phases of the project. Also, the responsibility for the
installation and operation of these phases is directly between the owner and contractors rather
than through the general contractor. In this contracting scheme the owner or their agents provide
the coordination between the contractors.
(3)
What is a separate contract and what are the principal advantages disadvantages for the
owner?
The Owner may pay the general contractor to do the coordination, pay the architect engineer or a
management company or handle it themselves.
(4)
List and briefly define the types of agreements for the owners payment to the
contractor which may be used.
Lump-Sum Agreement The contractor agrees to construct the project, in accordance with the
contract documents, for a set price arrived at through competitive bidding or negotiation.
Unit-Price Agreement the contractor bases the bid on estimated quantities of work and on
completion of the work in accordance with the contract documents. Payments are made based on
the price that the contractor bides for each unit of work, and field checks with measurements of
work actually completed.
Cost-Plus-Fee Agreements the contractor is reimbursed for the construction costs as defined in
the agreement. However, the contractor is not reimbursed for all items and complete
understanding of reimbursable and non-reimbursable costs is required.
(5)
What is the time of completion and why must it be clearly stated in the contract
agreement provisions?
The time of completion is used to determine the amount of time the contractor has to complete a
project. It should be in the original contract documents. Often there are incentives for early
completion and costs for late completion.
(6)
Describe what progress payments are and why they are important to the contractor.
Progress payments are the periodic payments made by the owner to the contractor. They are
important to the contractor because they use this money to pay all expenses associated with the
project. The timing and payment procedures should be detailed in the contract documents.
(7)

What is retainage, where is the amount specified, and why is it used?

A percentage of the payments from the owner to the contractor that is withheld for
the protection of the owner and supplier. This money is withheld to insure completion of the
project and payment of the bills associated with the project.
(8)
What is a bid bond and how does it protect the owner?
The bid bond ensures that if a contractor is awarded the bid within the time specified, the
contractor will enter into the contract and provide all other specified bonds. If they fail to do
so without justification, the bond shall be forfeited to the owner. The amount forfeited shall
in no case exceed the amount of the bond or the difference between the original bid and the
next highest bid that the owner may, in good faith, accept.
(9)
Where would information be found on whether a bid bond was required and, if so, its
cost?
Bid bond requirements are stated in the advertisement of Bidders. They are usually amplified
in the specifications.
(10)
What are performance bonds? Are they required on all proposals?

The performance bond guarantees the owner that, within limits, the contractor will perform all
work in accordance with the contract documents and that the owner will receive the project
built in substantial agreement with the documents. It protects the owner against default on
the part of the contractor up to the amount of the bond. The warranty period of one year is
usually covered under the bond also. The contactor should check the documents to see if this
bond is required and in what amount, and must also make the surety company aware of all
requirements.
(11)
How are the various surety bonds, which may be required on a specific project,
obtained?
Surety bonds can only be obtained through companies who specialize in issuing surety bonds.
The contractor will have to request the surety company to provide the bonds.
(12)
How does insurance differ from a surety bond?
With insurance an insurance company assumes the financial liability for a specified loss.
The surety guarantees the performance of a contractor. The surety company will try to
recover any losses from the contractor.

Chapter 3: Specifications
(1)

What types of information are found in the specifications?

(a) Invitation to bid (advertisement for bidders)
(b) Instructions to bidders
(c) Bid (or proposal) forms
(d) Form of owner-contractor agreement
(e) Form of bid bond
(f) Form of performance bonds
(g) Alternates
(h) General conditions of the contract
(i)
Supplementary general conditions
(j)
Technical trade sections
(2)
Why is important of the estimator to review carefully the entire set of
specifications?
It is important the estimator study the specifications because the project must be built to
meet all of the requirements of the specifications as well as the drawings. Items of
significant costs are included in the specifications.
(3)
Describe the CSI format and how it is used
The CSI format is a numbering system which divides the major areas involved in the
construction project into 16 divisions. The format allows the contractor to develop a tracking
system for all types of information.
(4)
What types of information would you find in the Invitation to Bid?
Generally, the advertisement describes the location, extent, and nature of work. It will
designate the authority under which the project originated. Concerning the bid, it will give the
place where bidding documents are available and list the item, manner, and place where bids
will be received. It will also list bond requirements and start and completion dates of work.

(5)

Why is it important that the bids be delivered the proper time and place?
For many projects bids are only accepted at a certain location up to a specified
deadline. After that time the owner has the right not to accept the bid. In some situations
the owner is required to return the bid unopened if it is not submitted by the specified time.
(6)
How do the Supplementary General Conditions differ from the General Conditions?
The Supplementary General Conditions of the specifications amends or supplements
portions of the General Conditions. It is thought these supplemental conditions that
the General Conditions are geared to all of the special requirements of geography, local
requirements, and individual project need. Part of the supplemental conditions cancel
or amend the articles in the General Conditions, while the remaining portion adds extra
articles.
(7)
What information is contained in the technical trade sections of he specifications?
The technical trade sections generally follow the CSI format. These specifications
include a type of materials required, their required performance, and the method that
must be used in order to obtain the specified result.
(8)
Explain what an alternate is and how it is handled during the bidding process?
Alternates are proposals that are required of all bidders reflecting the amounts to be
added subtracted from their base bid in the event that specific changes in the work are
ordered.
(9)
Why is it important to prepare the alternate amounts carefully and thoroughly?
Alternates should be prepared carefully and thoroughly because they are often used as
part of the price used to determine who will be awarded the contract. In addition, if
selected by the owner they become part of the contract documents.
(10)
Explain what an addendum is and when it is used.
Any amendments, modifications, revisions, corrections, and explanations issued by the
architect-engineer during the biding period are effected by issuing the addenda. The
statements, and any drawings include, serve to revise the basic contract documents.
They notify the bidder of any corrections in the documents, interpretations required,
and any additional requirements as well as other similar matters. The addenda must be
in writing.
(11)

(12)

Why is it important that the estimator be certain that all addenda have been received
before submitting a bid?
Since the addenda become part of the contact documents, it is important that all prime
contractors promptly receive copies of them. Many architect/engineer offices send
copies to all parties who have plans and specifications (including the planning rooms).
The addenda are also of concern to the subcontractor, material suppliers, and
manufacturers representatives who are preparing proposals for the project since the
revisions may affect their bids.
How should the estimator handle any errors or omissions that may be found in the
contract documents?
Errors in the specifications should be carefully noted in the estimators notebook. Most
contract documents require that any request for interpretation and addenda be made
with in a certain number of days before bid opening.

Chapter 4: The Estimate

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

Why should a notebook of the estimate be kept? What items should be kept in it?
A notebook should be kept of each estimate so the estimator can have a record of what
was done, what numbers were used and all of the history of the estimate in one place.
Why might a contractor decide not to bid a particular project?
Factors include the type of construction, location of the project, size of the project,
architect/engineer, qualified personnel, bonding capacity and current backlog of work.
Why should estimator check carefully to be certain that they have all of the
contract documents before bidding a project?
It is impossible to prepare an accurate estimate of the cost of the project if the
estimator does not have a complete set of contract documents. It is not unusual that a
set might be missing a drawing or part of the specification.
One of the requirements of most contract documents is that the contractor visit the
site. Why is the site investigation important?
First, the contract documents almost always require all bidders to visit the site. Often,
on the bid proposal there is a statement that states that the bidder has visited the
site. Some of the reasons are to check the following:
(a) Site access
(b) Availability of utilities (electric, water, telephone)
(c) Site drainage
(d) Transportation facilities
(e) Any required protection or underpinning of adjacent property
(f) A rough layout of the site locating proposed storage trailer and equipment
locations
(g) Subsurface soil conditions (bring a post-hole digger to check this)
(h) Local ordinances and regulations, and note any special requirements (permits,
licenses, barricades, fences)
(I)
The local labor situation and local union rules
(j) Availability of construction equipment rental, the type and conditions of what as
variable as well as the cost
(k) Prices and delivery information on local material suppliers (request they send you
proposals for ht project)
(l) The availability of local subcontractors (note their names, addresses, and what type
of work they usually handle)
(m) The conditions of the roads heading to the project, low bridges, and load limits on
roads or bridges
(n) Housing and feeding facilities if worker must be imported
(o) Banking facilities
Explain what a subcontractor is and the subcontractors relationship to the owner and
general contactor.
A subcontractor is a separate contractor hired by the prime contractor to perform
certain portions of the work on a project. The subcontractor works for the prime
contractor. Their relationship with the owner is through the prime contractor.

(6)

Why should material quotes be in writing? What items must checked in these
proposals?
Material quotes should be in writing so that all of the details are covered and there will
be no misunderstandings later. They should check against the specifications to insure
that the items that are quoted are acceptable under the specification.

(7)
What is the difference between work-up sheets and summary sheets?
The work-up sheets are used to make calculations, notes and generally to develop the cost of each
item. Summary sheets are condensed versions of the work-up sheets. In these sheets only the
summary of items are included.

Chapter 5 :Computer Assisted Estimating

(1)

In its simples form, what can computer-estimating software does? How will that help
the estimator?
In its simplest form a computer can take numbers and give quantities required, and other
simple calculations. This helps the estimator by giving a record of what is estimated and is
more accurate than the estimator in doing calculations.
(2)
In its most elaborate form, what can computer software do?
In its most elaborate form the computer can be used to design the project, do the contract
documents, through bidding of the project to the management of the actual construction.
(3)
What factors have made computers increasingly popular for estimating?
The factors, which have made computers increasingly popular for estimating, have been the
increased speed and storage capacity of personal computers, more sophisticated software and
rapidly decreasing hardware costs.
(4)
What is the advantage of using the CSI format?
The advantage of using the CSI format for estimating is accuracy. It is less likely that
any major areas of construction will be missed. Also it allows for cross-referencing of the
projected and actual costs.
(5)
How does the estimators job emphasis change when using computer estimating?
In addition to needing to still needing to know all aspects of estimating, the estimator
will spend time developing databases, work crews, running audit trails and analyzing category
costs.

Chapter 6:Overhead & Contingencies

(1) What is overhead? Why must it be included in the cost of the project?
Overhead costs are generally divided into home office overhead costs and job overhead
costs. The home office overhead costs include items that cannot be readily charged to
any one project, but represent the cost of operating the construction company. The job
overhead costs include all overhead expenses that will be incurred as a result of
executing a specific project. The major difference between the two is that the home
office overhead costs are incurred regardless of any specific project.
(2) What is the difference between general and job overhead Costs?
General overhead costs that are incurred regardless of whether a project is being
executed. These are the costs associated with operating the construction
company. Conversely, job overhead is the administrative costs directly associated with
the execution of a specific project.
(3) How are the items that the estimator will include in each type of overhead determined?
General overhead items are determined by an analysis of the construction company and
the indirect costs involved in building the project. The job overhead items are
determined by the analysis of the direct overhead involved in building the project and
those items required in the contract documents, typically the general Conditions added
Supplementary Conditions.
(4) Why is the length to item it will take to complete the project so important in determining
the overhead costs?
The length of time to complete a project particularly affects the cost of job overhead
because the longer it takes to complete a project the longer the contractor will be
paying the salaries associated with job overhead, such as superintendents, how long an
office will be required at he site as well as increased cost for utilities and sanitation
facilities.
(5)

What completive advantage is there for a company that has kept its general overhead low?
The cost of general overhand is spread over all of the projects that are executed within
a business cycle. The lower the general overhead the less that is allocated to all of the
projects that will be executed during the business cycle.

(6)

How many the weather, climate and season during which the project is to be constructed
affect the overhead costs?
The climate and seasons may affect overhead because any weather, which affects the
speed of construction, affects the cost of construction. In hot climates the heat of

summer slows construction and increases the cost of labor, air conditioning in the
project office and drinking water. In cold climates the freezing weather will slow and
often completely stop construction, again increasing construction labor costs, heating
costs and may require temporary enclosures.
(7) Where would the cost of temporary utilities be put in the estimate?
Temporary utilities would be placed under job overhead.
(8) How would the estimator determine who is responsible for what cost portion of applying the
temporary utilities?
The specifics of this would most likely be found in the written portion of the contract
documents, either the specifications themselves or the Supplementary general
Conditions.
(9) How can a preliminary work schedule of the project help the estimator?
The estimator to estimate how long it will take to complete the project can use a
preliminary work schedule. This information is particularly useful when estimating job
overhead costs and equipment rentals.
(10) Define contingency amounts and how some estimators use them.
Contingencies are amounts of money put into a bid to cover any items that might have
been left out, overlooked or to convert unforeseen circumstances. The primary
disadvantage of such a practice is it tends to encourage less accuracy in the bidding
process. The estimators may feel that they can be less meticulous because they have
this sum of money to cover the little things that were overlooked.
(11) If a full set of contract documents is available, make a list of overhead expenses required
for the project. If a set is not available make another trip to the top plan room and review a set of
documents on file there.

Chapter 7: labor
(1)

(2)

What unit of time is used to measure labor? What does it represent?

The unit of time used in estimating is the work hour. The work hour represents the amount
of work one person can do in one hour.
How do climatic conditions influence the amount of work actually completed in an hour?
Both extreme hot and cold will tend to slow down the pace of work.

(5) What effect can upcoming labor union negotiations have on a bid?
Upcoming labor union negotiations make it difficult to arrive at set price of the project.
Many time projects are not put out to bid until a new contract is signed. In additions, the
owner may build into the contract some agreement concerning wage increases that may
occur during the construction project.
(6) Why do many contractors hesitate to bid just before the creation of a union contract?
There may be hesitation to bid a project just before the expiration of a minor agreement
due to the uncertainty of outcomes of the negotiation. There is the possibility of a strike
or dramatic increase in rhea reviling wage rate.
(7) What effect could an extreme shortage of skilled workers have on the cost of a project?
A shortage of skilled worker may increase the cost of construction. The contractor may
have to offer incentives to attract the needed crafts or lesser-trained personnel may have
to be used. Either of these scenarios adds to increased construction costs. The incentives
increase the unit labor cost while using less trained personnel elongate the amount of time
required to complete the task, increasing the labor costs.
(8) How can working conditions on the job site affect worker productivity?
Job site working conditions can affect worker productivity if they cannot easily and
efficiently get the materials that that needs to do their job. This may be due to a number
of factors such as, limited storage, tight working space, poor timing of materials deliveries
and insufficient equipment.
(9) How may union work rules affect the pricing the labor?
Union work rules may affect the pricing of labor due to such of which union can perform the
work, handle which materials and run which equipment.
(13) How can crews be used in the estimating of labor? How does this compare with using
individual workers?
While the work hour measures the amount of work one worker does in an hour most work is
done by crews, or grouped of workers. Using crews allows the estimator to price how much
work and equipment it will require doing a certain amount of work. It may be based on work
per hour or on the amount of time it would take to do a certain amount of work.
(?) What are field reports, and who makes them out?
Field reports are records of work performed on the project, how many of which craft
performed work, the amount of time spent, and a description of the climate, job conditions
and any other pertinent information.

Chapter 8: Equipment
(1)

What are the advocates to a small contractor of renting equipment instead of owning?
1. The contractor can get the most suitable of equipment
2. The equipment is most likely newer and in a better state of repair
3. The rental company handles maintenance
4. The contractor does not tie up this capital
(2)
What is depreciation on equipment?
Depreciation is the loss in value of equipment that the contractor owns. The loss is a result of age,
wear and tear, and obsolescence. It is important that some cost of replacing worn equipment be
charged to each job so that when the equipment is worn out it can be replaced.
(3) What operating costs must be considered?
Operating costs include everything required to operate each piece of equipment. Typically those
items would be:
1.
Fuel
2.
Grease and oil
3.
Electricity
4.
Rental costs
5.
Labor costs
6.
Ownership costs
(4) Why should interest be included in the equipment costs if the contractor paid case for the
equipment?
Interest should be included in the equipment costs even if the contractor paid cash for the
equipment because the money would be earning interest if it had not been used for the
purchase of the piece of equipment.
(5) What is the approximate interest cost if the cost of equipment is $75,0000; the interest
rate 9.5%, and the life of the loan is 6 years?
(75,000*.95*6)/2 = $21,375
(6) Why must mobilization be included in the cost of equipment?
Mobilization time is the amount of time that is required to transport the equipment to the job
site, set it up and remove it after its use is completed. These costs are directly attributable
to the reject and should be charged to the project.
(7) Why is it important that reports fro the fields pertaining to equipment being kept?
Reports from the field that accurately show how much the equipment was used, how
much work it accomplished is important of the cost accounting that must be done at the
home office. This accounting is important not only for the job under construction but to
provide accurate information for the cost-estimating database. The accuracy of this
database is important since it will be used in estimating the cost for future projects.
(8) If there is excessive idle time for equipment on the job, to what factors may this be
attributed?
Factors, which may contribute to excessive idle time for equipment on a project, include bad
weather, poor working conditions and poor management, which might include poor scheduling,
poor filed supervision, poor maintenance and perhaps excessive equipment on the project.

Chapter 9: Excavation
(1)
What type of information about the excavation can the estimator learn from the
specifications?
Information from the specifications include the scope of work, what happens to the excess
material, who does the clearing and grubbing, removal of trees, if topsoil stored on site and where
and who does the excavation for the mechanical trades.
(2) How does the type of soil to be excavated affect the estimate?
They type of sale affects the estimate by:
The amount of swell varies for each type of soil affecting the amount of soil that needs to be
backfilled or hauled away.The type of soil also affects the slope at the sides of the excavation.
This affects the amount of soil that must be excavated, backfilled and will determine whether
bracing or piles will be required to support the sides of the excavation.The type of soil may also
affect the type of equipment selected for the excavation and how long it will take to perform the
work.
(3) What is the unit of measure in excavation?
Excavation is measured in Cubic Yards (CY) There are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard.
(4 How will the type of soil, shape of the excavation and amount of work to be done affect the
equipment selection?
The type of equipment selected must match the type of work to be done. Each portion of the
excavation needs to be analyzed and the best piece to equipment must be selected. Certain
pieces or groups of equipment are designed to handle specific types of excavation. Using the
wrong equipment may take more time and add work to the project.
(5) What is meant by cut and fill?
Cut consists of bringing the ground to a lower elevation by removing earth. Conversely, fill is the
bringing in of soil to raise the elevation of a site.
(6) What does the estimator have to consider if there is a substantial amount of cut on the job?
What if there is a substantial amount of fill?
When estimating cut the estimator will have to consider where the soil is being removed, where the
removed soil will be hauled to, what equipment will be required and how much it will cost. When
large amounts of fill are required the estimator will have to determine where the fill can be
obtained from, what equipment will be required to get it to the site, how it will be compacted and
spread and how much it will cost.
(7) How can the estimator get an estimate of how deep the topsoil on the project is?
One of the primary sources of information is from the soil borings, which are included in the
contract documents. Another is to visit the site and dig a small howl with a shovel of posthole
digger and measure the depth. If the later method is used a number of observation need to make
to insure that a fair representation has been made.

(8) What type of excavation is considered to be general excavation?

General excavation is the mass excavation of large amounts of soil such as that for a basement,
footing, and cut for a highway or parking lot.
(9) How does general excavation differs form special excavation?

While general excavation is mass excavation needed for the project, special excavation is any
portion of the work that will require special equipment used for a particular portion of the work.
(10) What is excess and borrow, and how are each considered in the estimate?
Excess is the soil that is to be removed from the site when all of the excavation is complete.
Borrow is the soil that must be brought to the site to complete the required excitation. Once all of
the excavation calculations are complete it can determined if there is excess or borrow situation.
Excess soil must be hauled away. This affects the estimate in terms of selection of equipment, the
amount of soil and the length of haul. All of these factors impact the cost of excavation.
(11) How will the possibility of a high water table or underground stream affect the bid?
The possibility of a high water table or stream affects the bid because they may require some form
of de-watering system to be installed during the construction of the project.
(12) What are piles, and under what conditions might they be required on the project?
Piles are supports used to shore up the soil when there is not space to sole the soil so it will be safe
to work without fear of soil caving in.

Chapter 10: Concrete

(1) What is the difference between plant ready-mixed concrete and job-mixed concrete?
Plant ready-mixed concrete is concrete, which is prepared at a central plant and then delivered to
the jobsite. These plants serve more then one construction site. Job-mixed concrete requires a
field batching plant to be built. It provides concrete for the project under constructing and usually
is dismantled when the project is complete.
(2)Under what circumstance might it is desirable to have a field batching plant for job-mixed
concrete?
It might be desirable to have a field-batching plant for job-mixed concrete when there is no
existing ready-mixed companies close enough to supply the concrete or if the existing companies
cannot handle the additional work of supplying a large project.
(3) What is the unit of measure for concrete?
The unit of measure for concrete is the cubic yard (CY)
(4) Why does the estimator have to keep the different places that the concrete will be used
separate in the estimate (e.g., concrete sidewalks, floor slabs)?
The concrete for each portion of the project should be listed separately on the work up sheets
because they will probably be required on the job at different times, require different reinforcing,
forms, curing and finishing,
(5) Why should the different strengths of concrete be kept separate?
Deferent strengths of concrete should be taken off separately because the higher the strength
the greater the cost.
(6) Where would the estimator most likely find the strength of the concrete required?
The strength of the concrete is most likely spelled out in the specifications although this
information may also be found on the detailed drawings.
(7) How are re-bars taken off; in what unit of measure are large quantities ordered?
Re-bars are usually taken off in linear feet of each size of bar and then converted into weight.
Most rebar is sold by hundred weights (cwt). The required lap affects the estimate because it
increases the linear feet of reinforcing bars that are required.
(8) How does lap affect the re-bar quantities?
Lap affects the re-bar quantities because it requires additional materials.
(9) How is wire mesh taken off? How is it ordered?
Wire mesh is taken off by square feet required and converted into the number of rolls that need to
be ordered (10) How is vapor barrier taken off, and how does the estimator determine the number
of rolls required?
Vapor barrier is taken off by the square foot required and converted into size of rolls required
.The estimator can best determine the size rolls required to determine the minimum amount of
waste by making a sketch of how the vapor barrier can be laid out on the job. It may take several
sketches to determine the most economical layout.
(11) What unit of measure is due when taking off expansion joint fillers?
Expansion joint filler is taken off in linear feet with the size and type of material noted.
(12) What unit of measure is used when taking off concrete finishes?
Concrete finishes are estimated by square feet of surface to be finished. When more than
one finish is required each finish must be listed separately.
(13) Why should each finish be listed separately on the estimate?

Each finish is listed separately so that it can be bid as accurately as possible. Typically,
each finish will require different amounts of material and labor.
(14) Where would the estimator look to determine if any curing of concrete is required on the
project?
The estimator would most likely find any concrete curing requirements in the speciation.
(15) Why must the estimator consider how the concrete will be transported to the jobsite?
The estimator must consider how the concrete will be transported to the jobsite to
determine if ready-mixed concrete is available or if they will have to arrange for job-mixed
concrete.
(16) What unit of measure is used when taking off concrete forms? How can reuse of forms
affect the estimate?
The most common unit of measurement for concrete forms is square feet of contact area
(SFCA).
Form reuse affects the estimate because it will impact the amount of form material required
and the labor of installing and removing the deform materials. It also affected the
placement of concrete on the project. If form materials are to be reused once installed,
additional concrete cannot be placed until the forms are removed and reset.
(17) What unit of measure is used for form liners? When might it be more economical to
rent instead of purchasing them?
The unit of measure usually used for form lines is
square feet required.
Form liners might be rented instead of purchased when the amount of usage on the job does
not provide sufficient use for purchase to be economical.
(18) What two methods of pricing might a subcontractor use for recast concrete?
The
two methods of pricing a subcontractor might use for installing the units would be lump sum
or unit price
(19) Many suppliers take the responsibility of installing the units, why might this be desirable?
It might be desirable to have the supplier install the units if they have personnel experienced in
the particular type of installation.
(20)
Under what conditions might it is desirable for a contractor to precast the concrete
on the jobsite?
A contractor might decide to precast the concrete on the jobsite if no precast plant is
located close enough to serve the project, the price quoted is in higher the cost
precasting on the project site or the pieces are to large to transport.

Chapter 11: Masonry

(1) What factors affect the cost of labor when estimating masonry?
Factors which affect the cost of labor when estimating masonry includes the particular masonry
unit (size, shape and weight), bond pattern, number of openings, shape of walls, distance units will
be moved, height of wall and the shape and color of the mortar joints. Other factors may include
union work rules and weather conditions.
(2)
How many the type of bond (pattern) affects the amount of materials required?
The type of bond affects the amount of material needed and requires the estimator to make a more
accurate study of each size of material required so they may be more accurately bid and ordered.
(3) Why is high accuracy required with an item such as masonry?
High accuracy is required on the masonry estimate because it is often a large percentage of the
total project.
(4) Why should local suppliers be contacted early in the bidding process when special shapes or
colors are required?
Local suppliers should be contacted about special colors and shapes in the masonry estimate early
in the bidding process to give them time to review the contract documents and see if they want to
bid the job. If they want to bid the project they will need time to carefully prepare an estimate
and bid.
(5) Why must the estimator separate the various sized of masonry units in the estimate?
The estimator separates the various sizes of the masonry units in the estimate so that the
estimate will be as accurate as possible. The different sizes have different costs and require
differencing amounts of labor.
(6) What is a cash allowance, how does it work?
For certain items required to build the project the specifications may allow for a cast allowance to
be set side for the purchase of a specify item or material type. If the actual costs exceed the
amount in the allowance the owner will be charged for the additional amount.
(7) How are stone veering quantities estimated?
Stone veneer quantities are usually estimated by the area in square feet of a given thickness.
(8) How many cold wither affect the cost of a building?
Cold weather may affect the cost of constructing a building by the need of temporary enclosures,
temporary heat, thawing of materials, slower rates of work and a higher frequency of equipment
repair.

Chapter 12: Metals

(1)
What two materials are most commonly used for structural framing metals and how are they
priced?
The two most commonly used metals for structural framing are steel and aluminum. They are both
priced by weight, usually by the ton.
(2) Under what conditions might it is desirable for the contractor to use a structural
subcontractor to erect the structural metal frame of the project?
The conditions under which it might be desirable for the contractor to use a structural
subcontractor to erect the structural metal frame of the building is when the contractor does not
have the equipment and skilled personnel to erect the framing.
(3) Why should the estimator list each of the different shapes (such as columns and still joists)
separately?
The estimator must list each of the different shapes separately since the costs per ton will vary.
Bulk items such as columns and beams will be less per ton than steel joists, which require longer and
different equipment to fabricate.
(4) What is the unit of measure for metal decks? What type of information needs to be noted?
The unit of measure for metal decks is the square (100 square feet). Information to be noted
includes type of material, thickness, gauge, finish and method of attachment.
(5) How are fabricated metal and ornamental metal usually priced?
The estimator should contact possible suppliers and how whey wants to bid the job, whether it will
be by the unit, material only and if labor is included.

Chapter 13: Woods

(1) What unit of measure is used for lumber?
The unit of measure to estimate lumber is board foot, board feet or thousand board feet.
(2) Determine the fem. for the following order:
190 2*4 8-0 = 1,033.33 bf
1,120 2*4 12-0 = 8,960 fbm.
475 2*6 16-0 = 7,600 fbm.
475 2*12 16-0 = 15,200 fbm.
18 2*8 18-0 = 432 fbm.
(3) How would you determine the number of studs required for a project?
The number of studs required for a project is determined by:
1.
Check of the specifications for a size and spacing of the studs.
2.
Determine the linear feet of studs required, divide them by the spacing required, add for any
openings, and add for corners, wall intersections and any miscellaneous areas such as gable ends of
the wood frame construction.
3. Divide the total linear footage by the spacing required, add for openings, corners and
intersections then add waste.
(4) How is the number of joists required determined?
The number of joists (floor and ceiling) required for a project is determined by:
1.
From the contract documents determine the size, spacing and grade of framing required.
2.
Divide the spacing of the joist into the length to be covered and add one.
3.
Calculate the length of the joists; remember to include bearing at the end and lap.
(5)

What is the difference between pitch and slope, as the terms pertain to roofing?
Pitch is rise of the roof divided by the span.Span is the ride of the roof divided by the run
(horizontal distance to the ridge).

(6)

(7)

(8)

Determine the length of rafter required for each of the following conditions five the
run is 16-0?
1/12 pitch (1.015 factor) 16-0 * 1.015 = 16.24
1/6 pitch (1.055 factor_ 16-0 * 1.055 = 16.88
3 in 12 slope (1.03 factor) 16 * 1.03 = 16.48
4 in 12 slope same as 1/12 pitch
What unit of measure is used for plywood when it his used for sheathing? How is
plywood waste kept to a minimum?
The unit of measure of plywood when it is used, as sheathing is the number of sheets
required. The thickness, identification marks, veneer grades and any species grade
noted should also be listed.
Plywood waste can be kept to a minimum by planning the sheet layout for the project so
that there are minimum number of cuts that have to be made and so that the carpenter
knows ahead of time whether a cut piece can be used elsewhere on the project.
What unit of measure is most likely to be used for laminated beams?

The unit of measure most likely to be used for laminated beams is the linear feet
required. The estimator should note the size of beams required, the type material and
the finish.
(9)
What unit of measure is most likely to bemused for wood decking? How is it determined?
The unit of measure for wood decking is the board measure. Calculating the square feet
of area to be covered and multiplying it by a thickness of wood factor determine this.
(10) What unit of measure is used for wood trim? If it requires a finish, where is this
information noted?
Wood trim is estimated by linear feet with the size and shape noted. Any finishes
required are usually noted in the specification.

Chapter 14: Thermal & Moisture Protection

(1) What is the difference between waterproofing and damp proofing?
Waterproofing is designed to resist the passage of water and usually designed to resist hydrostatic
pressure to which a wall of floor might be subjected. By contrast, damp proofing is designed to
resist dampness only, not to resist the passage of water or hydrostatic pressure.
(2) What is membrane waterproofing, and how is it estimated?
Membrane waterproofing consists of a buildup of tar or asphalt and membranes (plies) into a strong
impermeable blanket. It is estimate by the square (100 square feet).
(3) What are purging, and what unit of measure is used?
Purging is a mixture of cement, fine aggregate and used on exterior fountain walls to reduce
penetration of moisture into the building. The unit of measure is cubic feet.
(4) What is the unit of measure for roll bat insulation? What type of information should be noted
on the estimate?
The unit of measure for roll bat insulation is the number of rolls as determined by the square feet
to be filled. The estimate should note the thickness, type and facing required.
(5) What is the unit of measure for shingle roofing? What type of information should be noted
on the estimate?
The unit of measure for shingle roofing is the square (100 square feet). Information to be noted
includes the color, style, weight and exposure.
(6) What is the unit of measure for built-up roofing? What type of information should be noted
on the estimate?
The unit of measure for buildup roofing is the square (100 square feet). Information to be noted
includes the number of plies, base sheets, any aggregate covering and the number of coats of
bituminous materials.

Chapter 15: Doors and Windows

(2) What accessories should be checked for when taking off windows and curtain wall?
Window and curtain wall accessories include glass, gazing, screens, hardware, weather-stripping,
mullions, sills, stoops, flashing and lintels. Carefully check the drawing details and specifications
(3) Define glazing. Why must the estimator determine who will perform there required glazing?
Glazing is the setting (installation) of whatever material will be set in the window or curtain wall
frames. While many standard frames are glazed at the factory it is common for projects to have
all glazing done on the job. Subcontractors usually do the specialized work.
(4) What information is required to price a door?
The information required to price a door includes sizes required, frame and core type, face veneer,
refinished or job finished, pre-hung or job hung, hardware and accessories.
(5) What advantages are there in prefitting and refinishing doors?
The advantages of prefitted and prefinished doors are that it takes a difficult estimating item
and simplifies it considerable. It means that the door will not have to be hung or fitted in the
field.
(7) Why should the type finish required on the door and doorframes be noted on the workup
sheet?
The type of finish required on the doors and doorframes should be noted into workup sheets to be
certain that it is not forgotten in the estimate. If the finishes are to be done on the job they
must be included under finishes. Factory finishes need to be noted to be certain they are properly
included.
(8) Describe briefly the ways hardware may be handled on a project
Hardware is broken down into rough and finished hardware. Rough hardware is almost always
included in the contractor and must be estimated. Finish hardware may be handled by a cash
allowance or as a complete schedule of hardware required which is bid by a hardware supplier.
(9) What precautions must an estimator make when using an allowance, form the specifications, in
the estimate?
When the estimator uses a cash allowance form the contractor documents great care must be
taken to understand exactly what is covered with the allowance. Often the cash allowance is for
materials only and the estimator still must estimate the associated labor costs.
(10) What is the unit of measure for glass and why should the various types and sizes required be
listed separately?
The unit of measure of glass is square feet. The various types and sized need to be listed
separately in order to develop an accurate bid.

Chapter 16: Finishes

(1) What is the difference between drywall and wet wall?
Drywall construction utilizes wallboard while wetwall utilizes plaster and stucco. Since the plaster
and stucco are applied wet it is referred to as wet wall construction and since the wallboards are
dry they are refereed to a drywall.
(2) Why should walls of various heights, thickness and finishes be listed separately?
Walls with various heights, thickness and finishes should be listed separately so that the estimator
can accurately do a quantity take off of each area for wall sizes and finishes and heights. These
variables may also affect the pricing of the required labor.
(3) What procedure is used to estimate the steel studs and runners used?
The procedure used to estimate steel studs is to make a listing of each wall length, its thickness
and height and then calculate the studs required. The runners are calculated by finding the total
linear feet of each wall, note its width and add together wall lengths of the same width. Runners
are required that the top and bottom of the studs.
(4) List the types of lath used for wetwall and the unit of measure of each.
Gypsum tile the number of units
Gypsum plaster lath number of sheets or thousands of square feet
Metal lath square yards
Wood Lath square yards
(5) What are the advantages and disadvantages of using subcontractors for drywall and wet wall
construction?
Drywall and wet wall are special types of construction which require specialized methods of
installation and equipment. It may be more economical to have subcontractor s that specializes in
this type of construction to do the work.
Subcontractors often have specialized experience, equipment and workers capable of doing a
particular portion of work better a more economically than a general contractor. The
disadvantages are that the estimator must still do an estimate and compare it with the
subcontractors proposal
Other disadvantages include the dependence on someone else to do the work, meet time schedules
and perform in a workmanlike fashion.
(6) What unit of measure is used for wood block flooring, and what information should be noted on
the workup sheets?
The unit of measure is square feet area to be covered or by the square. The information to be
noted includes the thickness of material, type of material, method of installation and finish.

(7)
What unit of measure is used for resilient flooring, and what information should be noted on
the workup sheets?
The unit of measure for resilient flooring is the square foot. Information to be noted includes the
thinness of flooring, size and shape, color, design layout, type of sub floor and underpayment.
(8) What unit of measure is used to estimate carpet, and what can be done to minimize waste?
The unit of measure for carpet is the square yard. Waste can be minimized by carefully planning
the layout of each room so that waste is minimized.

Chapter 17: Electrical

(1) What is the difference between single and separate contracts?
Single contracts all of the work to be done on the project, including the electrical work is the
responsibility of one single prime contractor. This centralizes the responsibility for the work
being done and means that the owner only has to deal with one contractor who is responsible for
the project.Separate contract The owner enters into separate contracts with various contractors,
including electrical contractors, for various portions of the work.
(2) Why the mechanical and electrical portions of the work are often put out under separate
contrast?
The mechanical and electrical portions of the job are often put out under separate contract
because they are major portions of the work which require specialists, the owner does not want to
leave this selection to the general contractor, and the general contractor adds a percentage to
their price to coordinate the work and billings.
(3) Why should the estimator review the electrical portions of the job whether it involves single or
separate contracts?
The estimator should review the electrical portions of the job whether it is a single or separate
contracts because under either contract there may be areas of coordination and mutual
responsibility which the estimator must be awake of.
(4) Why is cooperation and coordination so important between the various contractors on a
project?
Cooperation and coordination is important between the various contractors on a job because the
finished project requires the blending of all trades on the job. This includes the understanding of
who is responsible for what and when it needs to be done and importance of accomplishing all work
on time.
(5) How will the various types of construction affect the cost of the electrical work?
The various types of construction affect the electrical work because it affects the cost and
difficulty of installation. The cost will vary dramatically by the type of construction. While steel
joists offer excellent flexibility for running conduit and conductors, precast concrete will require
considerable more planning.

Chapter 18: Plumbing

(1) How do the various codes affect the installation of the mechanical portions of the project?
The various codes affect the installation of the work because the applicable code must be followed
in the installation. It usually affects the sizing, layout and installation procedures used for all of
the mechanical areas.
(2) What type of work is most generally included under plumbing?
Plumbing usually includes water supply and sewage and storm water drainage.
(3) Why would an estimator call a subcontractor if it were suspected that the subcontractors bid
is too low?
It is important that a bidder be notified if the estimator believes that their bid is too low because
each contractor on the job must make a profit or they will go out of business. If a contractor can
not make a project on the job they may be slow to staff the project or may cut corners in an
attempt to minimize their losses.
(4) Why should be estimator review the plumbing portions of the project whether it involves single
or separate contracts?
The plumbing portion of the contract documents should is reviewed by the general contractors
estimator to determine if there are any obvious error, overlaps of work or missing information.
The estimator will want to be certain of who is responsible for many of the coordination aspects of
the job, such as trenching, backfilling and the like.
(5) How do the various types of construction affect he cost of the plumbing work?
The various types of construction affect the cost of installation of the plumbing work because
each will make it either easy or more difficult to install. In addition, some types of construction
require more coordination than to others.

Chapter 19: HVAC

(1)
Under which of the mechanical would electric heat be most likely placed?
In most contacts electric would be included under the heating section of the contract. In most
cases it would still require a licensed electrician to install it.
(2)
How do the various types of construction affect tee cost of the gating work?
The type of construction will determine how easily installed the system will be. This has a direct
effect on the cost of the project.
(3)
Why are subcontractors hired, under single contracts, to perform the mechanical work?
Subcontractors are hired because installation of the mechanical portion of the project requires
expertise, which the general contractors crews most likely do not have. In addition, most contract
documents and building codes require licensed personnel to perform the work.