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Glossary of Technical Terms Used in Cost Estimation & Control: Estimate Based on Working Drawings

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Estimate Based on Working Drawings

Estimating Based on Working Drawings: A Deeper Dive into Class A Estimates

When it comes to large-scale projects, particularly in construction, accurate estimations are crucial for informed decision-making. An Estimate Based on Working Drawings, often referred to as a Class A Estimate, is a detailed cost breakdown derived from comprehensive construction plans and specifications. This article explores the intricacies of Class A estimates, providing a clear understanding of its role in project management.

What is a Class A Estimate?

A Class A estimate is a highly detailed cost projection based on the working drawings, also known as the construction plans. These drawings provide a blueprint of the entire project, outlining each element from the foundation to the finishing touches. This meticulous approach allows for a comprehensive analysis of materials, labor, equipment, and potential contingencies.

Why Class A Estimates Are Essential

Class A estimates are vital for various reasons:

  • Accuracy: Due to the detailed nature of the analysis, these estimates offer the most accurate cost projection possible at the early stages of a project.
  • Risk Management: Identifying potential cost overruns early on allows for better risk mitigation strategies, ensuring a smoother project execution.
  • Informed Decision-Making: These estimates provide a robust financial framework for stakeholders, enabling them to make informed decisions about project feasibility, budget allocation, and potential adjustments.
  • Enhanced Negotiation: Class A estimates offer a solid foundation for negotiations with contractors, ensuring a transparent and fair bidding process.

Key Characteristics of Class A Estimates

  • Detailed Breakdown: Each element of the project is analyzed, including materials, labor, equipment, and even potential contingencies.
  • Based on Working Drawings: These estimates are built upon the finalized working drawings, ensuring a thorough understanding of the scope and complexity of the project.
  • Specialized Expertise: Class A estimates often require the involvement of experienced estimators and professionals with deep knowledge of construction costs.
  • Iterative Process: The estimation process is iterative, allowing for adjustments and refinements based on new information and evolving project requirements.

Example of a Class A Estimate

Consider a residential construction project. A Class A estimate would break down the cost of each component, including:

  • Foundation: Concrete, labor, formwork, reinforcing steel, etc.
  • Framing: Lumber, labor, sheathing, insulation, etc.
  • Roofing: Shingles, flashing, underlayment, labor, etc.
  • Exterior Finishes: Siding, windows, doors, paint, etc.
  • Interior Finishes: Flooring, drywall, paint, cabinets, etc.

Conclusion

An Estimate Based on Working Drawings (Class A Estimate) is a powerful tool for project management. By providing a detailed and accurate cost analysis based on finalized plans, it enables stakeholders to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and ultimately, achieve a successful project outcome. Its importance in the construction industry and other large-scale projects cannot be overstated.

Test Your Knowledge

Quiz: Estimating Based on Working Drawings (Class A Estimates)

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What is the primary source of information for a Class A Estimate? a) Previous project budgets b) Contractor bids c) Working drawings d) Market research

Answer

c) Working drawings

2. Which of the following is NOT a key characteristic of a Class A Estimate? a) Detailed breakdown of project elements b) Based on preliminary sketches c) Specialized expertise required d) Iterative process

Answer

b) Based on preliminary sketches

3. Why are Class A Estimates considered vital for risk management? a) They guarantee project completion within budget. b) They identify potential cost overruns early on. c) They eliminate the need for contingencies. d) They predict future market fluctuations.

Answer

b) They identify potential cost overruns early on.

4. Which of the following is an example of an element that would be included in a Class A Estimate for a commercial building project? a) Cost of marketing materials b) Salary of the project manager c) Number of employees working on the project d) Quantity of concrete for the foundation

Answer

d) Quantity of concrete for the foundation

5. What is the main purpose of a Class A Estimate? a) To determine the profitability of a project. b) To secure funding for a project. c) To provide an accurate cost projection for a project. d) To finalize the project schedule.

Answer

c) To provide an accurate cost projection for a project.

Exercise: Class A Estimate Application

Scenario: You are tasked with creating a preliminary Class A Estimate for a residential renovation project. The working drawings indicate the following:

  • Kitchen Remodel: New cabinets, countertops, flooring, appliances (including a new refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher).
  • Bathroom Remodel: New shower, bathtub, vanity, flooring, and fixtures.
  • Exterior Painting: Repainting the entire house.

Instructions:

  1. Break down the project into its major components (e.g., kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel, exterior painting).
  2. List the key elements within each component (e.g., cabinets, countertops, flooring for the kitchen).
  3. For each element, consider the materials, labor, and potential contingencies that would need to be factored into the estimate.
  4. Provide a brief description of how you would research costs for each element (e.g., online resources, material suppliers, local contractors).

Exercice Correction

**1. Project Breakdown:** * Kitchen Remodel * Bathroom Remodel * Exterior Painting **2. Key Elements with Material, Labor, and Contingencies:** **Kitchen Remodel:** * **Cabinets:** * Material: Cabinetry, hardware, hinges, drawer slides * Labor: Installation, customization (if needed) * Contingencies: Potential need for additional carpentry work, changes to cabinet design * **Countertops:** * Material: Countertop material (e.g., granite, quartz), edging * Labor: Installation, fabrication (if needed) * Contingencies: Material availability, potential for damage during installation * **Flooring:** * Material: Flooring type (e.g., tile, hardwood), underlayment * Labor: Installation, removal of existing flooring * Contingencies: Need for subfloor repairs, unexpected issues with existing flooring * **Appliances:** * Material: Refrigerator, oven, dishwasher * Labor: Installation, removal of old appliances * Contingencies: Appliance availability, potential for damage during installation * **Electrical and Plumbing:** * Material: Wiring, plumbing fixtures, outlets * Labor: Installation, modifications to existing electrical and plumbing * Contingencies: Unexpected issues with existing wiring or plumbing **Bathroom Remodel:** * **Shower:** * Material: Shower tiles, shower pan, showerhead, fixtures * Labor: Installation, waterproofing * Contingencies: Potential need for tile repairs, issues with waterproofing * **Bathtub:** * Material: Bathtub, fixtures, surround * Labor: Installation, plumbing connections * Contingencies: Bathtub size or model availability, potential for damage during installation * **Vanity:** * Material: Cabinetry, countertop, sink, faucet * Labor: Installation, plumbing connections * Contingencies: Need for additional carpentry, modifications to plumbing * **Flooring:** * Material: Flooring type (e.g., tile, vinyl), underlayment * Labor: Installation, removal of existing flooring * Contingencies: Need for subfloor repairs, unexpected issues with existing flooring * **Fixtures:** * Material: Toilet, mirrors, towel bars, etc. * Labor: Installation * Contingencies: Fixture availability, potential for damage during installation **Exterior Painting:** * **Material:** Paint (type, color), primer, brushes, rollers, painter's tape * Labor: Preparation (cleaning, sanding, masking), painting * Contingencies: Need for additional preparation work, weather delays **3. Cost Research:** * **Online Resources:** Websites of material suppliers (e.g., Home Depot, Lowe's), online cost databases, construction forums. * **Material Suppliers:** Visit local material suppliers for quotes on specific materials. * **Local Contractors:** Obtain quotes from local contractors specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations and painting. **4. Considerations:** * **Labor Costs:** Research average labor rates in the local area for various trades (e.g., electricians, plumbers, carpenters). * **Permits:** Factor in the cost of any necessary permits for the renovation. * **Contingencies:** Include a buffer for unexpected costs or changes in the scope of work. **Note:** This is a simplified example. A comprehensive Class A Estimate would involve more detailed analysis and breakdown of each element.

Books

  • Construction Estimating Handbook: This comprehensive handbook covers all aspects of construction estimating, including detailed sections on cost estimating based on working drawings and Class A estimates.
  • The Construction Manager's Handbook: This handbook offers insights into various aspects of construction management, including cost estimating, and provides guidance on developing effective Class A estimates.
  • Cost Estimating for Engineers and Project Managers: This book delves into cost estimation methodologies, including detailed explanations of Class A estimates and their application in different engineering projects.

Articles

  • "Class A Cost Estimates: A Comprehensive Guide" by [Author Name] (Published in [Journal Name] or [Website Name]): Search for articles specifically addressing Class A estimates, providing detailed explanations and examples.
  • "The Importance of Detailed Cost Estimates in Construction Projects" by [Author Name] (Published in [Journal Name] or [Website Name]): This article will highlight the importance of detailed cost estimates, emphasizing the role of Class A estimates in project planning and execution.
  • "How to Develop a Class A Estimate for Construction Projects" by [Author Name] (Published in [Journal Name] or [Website Name]): Look for articles that provide practical guidance on developing Class A estimates, covering methods, tools, and considerations.

Online Resources

  • Construction Specifications Institute (CSI): CSI provides resources and standards for construction specifications and documentation, including guidelines for developing Class A estimates.
  • American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE): ASCE offers a range of resources for civil engineers, including information on cost estimating methodologies and best practices for Class A estimates.
  • Construction Industry Institute (CII): CII focuses on research and knowledge sharing in the construction industry, including studies and reports on cost estimation and Class A estimates.

Search Tips

  • Use specific keywords like "Class A estimate," "estimate based on working drawings," "construction cost estimating," and "detailed cost estimation."
  • Combine keywords with project types like "residential construction," "commercial construction," or "infrastructure projects" to narrow down results.
  • Include relevant phrases like "best practices," "methodologies," and "tools" to find resources that focus on practical applications and techniques.
  • Utilize advanced Google search operators like "+" (plus sign) for exact phrase search and "-" (minus sign) to exclude irrelevant terms.
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