Construction Project Estimator Free Template
This Downloadable Template Is Part Of Our Free Free Excel Construction Template Collection
From time to time, and depending on the type and size of a construction project, contractors will need to perform their own cost assessments, referred to as 'estimates'.
An estimate lays out all the expected project expenses including labor, materials, and associated costs. You can use this template to lay out all the costs of your project and define the total estimate.
This interactive Excel file is pre filled with the formulas you need to start filling it out and utilizing it right away.
The Team At SINC
Construction Project Estimator Template
What Is Estimating?
Construction estimating is the art of compiling a detailed estimation of the total costs of a project including materials, equipment, and labor. On smaller projects, contractors will generally do it themselves, but bigger builds often involve many different variables necessitating the hiring of a professional. Estimators are perhaps the least known role in our industry and yet one of the most important. While making estimates about the amount of materials and labor needed for a project sounds simple enough, it's in fact a tedious and time-consuming task that requires a substantial amount of skill. Good construction estimators are worth their weight in gold.
Where Do Estimators Find Data?
Estimators are accountable for setting the total cost of a project and in that regard, count on a variety of sources for information. Primarily, estimators turn to the Scope of Work which is a document that lays out every work element that is relevant to the construction project. If the Scope of Work isn't accurate, it can lead to major problems with the estimation. Next, they consult the blueprints along with the engineer's specifications, and finally, a good estimator will visit the jobsite itself to do a visual inspection. In some cases, such as for a build in a wetlands, an on-site assessment will identify special equipment and supports may be needed which will increase overall costs.
What is the Estimator's End Result?
The root of an estimator's task is compiling the 'takeoff', which is essentially a line-by-line breakdown of all the materials necessary to complete the structure. The takeoff lists each material, the unit cost, the amount needed, and the final estimated cost. Experienced estimators can massage the material types and unit costs based on their knowledge of local materials markets and availability. At the end of the day, the estimator needs to build a comprehensive estimate with costs adjusted for overhead and profit, taking into consideration the multitude of indirect costs associated with a construction project.
This sample resource is provided to you free by SINC BUSINESS CORPORATION to help with your compliance efforts and includes no warranty as to its suitability for any particular task. It is only our opinion based on our experience and should not be considered legal advice.
