Construction Estimating

Construction Estimating is a comprehensive introduction to estimating practices used in the construction industry. This textbook contains 15 chapters that cover construction materials and methods, and also discusses estimating practices in order to reinforce previous course work and provide a transition into estimating practices.

Construction Estimating also provides a guide to sources of information on drawings and specifications, and the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) MasterFormat™ 2004 divisions are referenced where applicable throughout.

Each chapter of Construction Estimating includes several features to enhance learning - Key Concepts, Key Terms, Web Links, Review Questions, and Activities. The Key Concepts at the beginning of each chapter are designed to focus students on important estimating concepts presented in that chapter. The Key Terms list at the end of each chapter identifies terms that are critical to understanding the topics discussed. The Web Links at the end of each chapter identify trade associations and organizations where additional material, labor, or equipment information can be obtained. The Review Questions evaluate student comprehension of chapter content. The Activities provide opportunities for students to prepare estimates using ledger sheets, electronic spreadsheets, or estimating programs and includes prints, specifications, and cost data from which estimate information can be derived.

The Sage Timberline Office Estimating Products CD-ROM provided with the textbook includes a demonstration release of the Sage Timberline Office estimating Extended Edition. Ten sample databases are provided with the program, including general contractor, concrete/masonry, HVAC, and residential homebuilder databases, and include material, labor, and equipment cost data. Installation information for the Sage Timberline Office estimating program is included on the Construction Estimating CD-ROM and is accessed by picking the Sage Timberline Office Estimating button. The fully functional demonstration release of the Sage Timberline Office estimating program is limited to 180 days of operation and approximately 100 spreadsheet rows.

The Quantity Spreadsheets and Estimate Summary Spreadsheets provided on the Construction Estimating CD-ROM are designed for use with the Activities in each chapter of the textbook. Students are encouraged to modify the spreadsheets for specific learning needs. The cost data provided for the Activities and used to develop material, labor, and equipment prices is for instructional purposes only. These values are approximate and vary based on the construction location.