Description
Simplify the estimating process with the latest data, materials, and practices
Electrical Estimating Methods, Fourth Edition is a comprehensive guide to estimating electrical costs, with data provided by leading construction database RS Means. The book covers the materials and processes encountered by the modern contractor, and provides all the information professionals need to make the most precise estimate. The fourth edition has been updated to reflect the changing materials, techniques, and practices in the field, and provides the most recent Means cost data available. The complexity of electrical systems can make accurate estimation difficult, but this guide contains all the necessary information in one place.
An electrical estimate represents the total cost for materials, labor, overhead and profit, but accuracy is virtually impossible without a basic knowledge of the field, and real-world experience in the type of work required. Inaccurate estimates lead to problems with customer satisfaction, which often create payment issues. A thorough, complete, and accurate estimate is in the best interest of all parties involved in the work. Electrical Estimating Methods provides more than just data. Detailed discussions about the work itself help highlight factors that may escape notice, and access to the latest cost data helps tie everything together. Features include:
- Discussion of current equipment, materials, and processes
- Means data for both residential and commercial projects
- Case studies that illustrate best practices
- Online access to the latest Means data for fast access on the job
The book discusses specific situations as well as general practices, and provides comprehensive guidance to the creation of a true, current, estimation of costs. For electrical contractors and estimators, Electrical Estimating Methods contains must-have content that simplifies the estimating process.
Chapter
CHAPTER 3 Before Starting the Estimate
CHAPTER 4 The Quantity Takeoff
Beginning the Quantity Takeoff
Rules to Follow for Accurate Takeoffs
Rule 1: Write Clear Task Descriptions
Rule 2: Use Industry‐Accepted Units
Rule 3: Follow a Logical Order
Rule 4: Review Scales, Notes, Abbreviations, Symbols, and Definitions
Rule 5: Verify Dimensions
Rule 7: Number Takeoff Sheets
Rule 8: Define Units for Material, Work, and Assembly Items
Rule 10: Verify Appropriate Level of Accuracy
Rule 11: Calculate Net versus Gross Quantities
Rule 12: Check the Takeoff
Rule 13: Mark up the Drawings as Bid Documents
Rule 14: Maintain Concentration
Rule 15: Organize the Documentation
Adjusting for Standard Sales Units
Waste Resulting from Handling/Storage
Other Factors that Affect Quantities
CHAPTER 5 Pricing the Estimate
Individual and Crew Tasks
Applying Prices to General Requirements
Factors in Determining Profit
CHAPTER 8 The Unit Price, Project Overhead Summary, and Estimate Summary Sheets
Project Overhead Summary Sheet
The Estimate Summary Sheet
Applying Markups at the Estimate Summary Level
Markups on Subcontractors
CHAPTER 9 Prebid Scheduling
Critical Path Method (CPM)
Value of the Prebid Schedule
Daily Production Rate Method
Milestones and Constraints
CHAPTER 10 Bidding Strategies
Determining Risk in a New Market Area
General Bidding Strategies
Developing a Bidding Strategy
Maximizing the Profit-to-Volume Ratio
CHAPTER 11 Project Cost Control and Analysis
The Practice of Cost Control
Productivity and Efficiency
PART 2 COMPONENTS OF ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Flexible Metallic Conduit
CHAPTER 13 Conductors and Grounding
Cable Terminations (to 600 Volt)
Cable Terminations (High Voltage)
Nonmetallic Sheathed Cable
Fiber-Optic Cable Systems
Undercarpet Telephone Systems
CHAPTER 14 Boxes and Wiring Devices
Wiring Devices and Low-Voltage Switching
CHAPTER 15 Starters, Boards, and Switches
Meter Centers and Sockets
Motor Control Center Components
Motor Starters and Controls
Panelboard Circuit Breakers
CHAPTER 16 Transformers and Bus Duct
Bus Duct Busway—100A and Less
Uninterruptible Power Supply Systems
CHAPTER 17 Power Systems and Capacitors
Automatic and Manual Transfer Switches
Interior Lighting Fixtures
Exit and Emergency Lighting
CHAPTER 19 Electrical Utilities
CHAPTER 20 Special Systems
Closed-Circuit TV Systems
CHAPTER 21 Electrical Demolition and Temporary Facilities
Defining the Electrical Demolition Scope
CHAPTER 22 Contract Modifications
Construction Change Directives
Minor Changes and Field Directives
Pricing Changes in the Work
What Makes Change Orders Different
Change Orders and the Schedule
CHAPTER 23 Project Closeout
Objectives of the Closeout Process
CHAPTER 24 Computerized Estimating
Basic Spreadsheet Programs
Stand-Alone Estimating Software
Selecting the Best Software
Quantity Takeoff Software
APPENDIX Symbols and Abbreviations