Hi all,
I know this topic has been covered in the past, and I’ve done some research with the search function before posting, but it’s not 100% (if you haven’t noticed).
What the search turned up was several years worth of advice, and I’m sure some have switched systems or found better ways since then, so I’m wondering what you’re using for estimating nowadays? I would love to see what excel templates people are using if they are willing to share!
…but most importantly, I work alone – so I’m wondering if estimating software makes sense for me, or if I should just get better at guessing?
Justin Fink – FHB Editorial
Edited 5/12/2006 2:23 pm ET by JFink
Replies
I use National Estimator of course it's 2002 edition but I have changed the pricing for my area on the materials part so I can have a better idea of my materials cost for the customers. I also work alone I have a part time Handyman service that. You can go to http://www.craftsman-book.com click the software on the side of the web page and the national cd estimator at the bottom of the first page is the new edition is the one i think I have which gives you all of the trades pricing and also several excel, word, works and ect. forms that you can use or modify to for you use.
Scott
I still do the job in my head as I estimate/bid it, get current prices from various suppliers and keep a close eye on estimated time/time actually spent doing task records, Justin. Get's to be second nature after a while.
I have followed a few pricing guidlines in the past, but only to check my own estimates against whatever they say is the "national average", or if it's a task I am totally unfamilliar with. Even then, I get pretty close by thinking through the process, or talking with other building professionals.
Estimating - part science, part art. Very interesting part of our profession.
Tipi, Tipi, Tipi!
http://www.asmallwoodworkingcompany.com
Thanks guys, much appreciated.Justin Fink - FHB Editorial
I use formulas that I have personally developed over the years, using local cost and past project experience. The way I started (long ago) was to build the job in your head, writing down procudures and adding cost for labor and materials as you envision the project phases being built.
So, wha zup with the door replacement?