Estimation (or estimating) is the process of finding an estimate, or approximation, which is a value that is usable for some purpose even if input data may be incomplete, uncertain, or unstable. The value is nonetheless usable because it is derived from the best information available.
The method of computation of all required engineering materials and the expenditure likely to be incurred in carrying out a given work before the actual execution of work is called estimation. Hence an estimation includes calculation of quantity involved and quality aspects of the material required.
How can I estimate the cost of electricity in my home?
Types of Wires – There are several essential types of wire that one must know for understanding their place of usage.
- Triplex wires.
- Main feeder wires.
- Panel feed wires.
- Non-metallic sheathed wires.
- Single strand wires.
What is the purpose of estimating and costing in electrical?
The Cost of Upgrading Electrical Service
But modern homes may need as many as 200 amps to run air conditioners, computer equipment, high-definition televisions, and high-tech home automation devices. The cost of upgrading your existing electrical service panel to a 100- or 200-amp panel is $800 to $3,000.
Tips to Improve Electrical Estimating in Construction
Here are some of our top tips to help improve electrical estimating in construction projects.
1. Review Cost Codes
No two businesses will use the same cost codes. Companies might use just a few cost codes, or they might have hundreds of cost codes. More cost codes mean that the company can track items in detail, however, they can be complicated to function. Companies should review their cost codes to determine whether their cost codes are functional or not and if it’s making sense for the business.
2. Carefully Determine Overhead
Overhead costs include all indirect costs incurred during the life of a project, such as utilities for the office and marketing costs. Accurately estimating overhead costs is extremely important, as an underestimated cost can lead to the project becoming unprofitable for the contractor and may even end up costing the contractor money.
3. Mobile Time Tracking
Mobile time tracking is an easy way to improve accuracy for estimating and costing electrical projects. Paper or manual time tracking doesn’t provide accurate information, and switching from manual to mobile time tracking helps improve labor cost estimation. It’s easier to know how much time a team needs to complete a specific cost code or certain projects. More accurate information leads to more accurate estimates, decreasing the number of budget overages by the end of the project.
4. Review Old Projects
One of the best ways to improve estimating is to look at old projects. Projects that are similar to the current bid can provide valuable data since an estimator might be able to see that similar projects always end up overbudget on labor costs or material costs and account for that in their new project estimate. Historical data can also be used to determine the general overhead during certain times of the year and more. They can also use it as a way to validate their estimates. If past projects always use a certain labor amount, then using that data to validate the labor cost can be beneficial.
5. Determine if the Project is a Good Fit
While some projects may seem to be appealing for a contractor, it is important to take the skill set of the workers into account. Using new technology or materials that your workers are unfamiliar with may greatly slow down the progress of the project and If your workers are not comfortable in the specialized field of the project they are working in, it may not be worth investing your time and money in.
Our Services
Our reliable electrical estimators deliver few expert services that are as follows:
- Electrical material Takeoffs
- Electrical Cost per Square Foot
- Electrical CAD drafting services
- Electrical cost estimates for residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects.
- Value engineering
- Bid preparation and submission
- Electric Project Cost Management
Please submit your drawing plans and specifications along with your contact details . We will review and send you a free quote based on the invoice, turnaround time & delivery date within the next 5 minutes.