Construction Estimating Using Excel

by Steven D. Peterson

Construction Estimating with Excel introduces readers to the fundamental principles of estimating and includes drawing sets, real-world exercises, and examples that give beginners critical estimating experience. The book moves step-by-step through the estimating process, discussing the art of estimating, the quantity takeoff, how to put costs to the estimate and how to finalize the bid. It is also the first book to demonstrate how Microsoft Excel can be used to improve the estimating process. Because it introduces spreadsheets as a way of increasing estimating productivity and accuracy, the book can help both beginning and experienced estimators improve their skills. Moves beyond many books to not only talk about takeoff (and the costs of a limited number of building materials), but also the principles behind these calculations. Gives readers a strong foundation so they can transfer basic estimating principles to any building material. Provides an introduction to the basic operation of Excel and discusses how it can be used to improve the estimating process. Includes Excel Quick Tips that demonstrate how to set up Excel worksheets for different types of estimating problems. Offers a variety of sites (a residential garage, a residence and a retail building) where readers can practice estimating skills in a non-threatening environment. Includes fundamental mathematical concepts necessary in estimating. Construction Estimators

540 pages, Paperback

First published July 29, 2006

Reviews

[Paul · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have not finished reading this yet, but I am reading it for a class. The book itself explains a lot of the construction process and helps set up quick tips for calculating estimates, however, it also misses a lot of things as well. It is definitely helpful for setting a foundation of knowledge, but I don't believe it will really prepare future estimators for what they will do. The author seemed to run out of steam as the book went on and showed fewer and fewer examples, as well as sharing less and less information about the trades that show up later in the MasterFormat divisions.