Estimation for Residential Building Projects: Methods, Processes, and Software

Estimation of Residential Building

What Is Estimation of Residential Building?

Estimation of a residential building is basically a “Bottoms Up” or “Prime Cost” which performed an analysis in detail and finally produce a product.

Estimation actually calculates all the necessary values with a lower rate and higher amount, this method helps the owner. It is basically a combination of estimating methods. Estimation of residential building executes various types of works and their expenses in a chart.

Different Types of Estimation for Residential Building

Here is a description of different types of estimation for residential building.

1. Earthwork Excavation Process:

It is almost first step of estimation. Here, we calculate the amount of earthwork should be excavated. It is measured in a meter cube. Sand filling for basement or foundation.

This is the second step of estimation of a residential building; here, we measure how much amount of sand is needed for the filling purpose and it is measured in a meter cube unit.

2.  P.C.C. With a Mix of 1:5:10 for Foundation:

After that plain cement concrete is needed with a mixture of 1:5:10 for the foundation purpose and the unit of this is also meter cube. P.C.C. with a mix of 1:2:4 for beam, roof, sunshade:

In residential building estimation there is another type of plain cement concrete needed for beam, column, roof purpose and that is a ratio of 1:2:4 mix & measured by meter cube unit.

3. Dummy Concrete With a Mix of 1:3:6:

This is not always used in the residential building purpose but we need to calculate this in our measurement. Steel casing and rods for centring and scaffolding: Steel is measured by kilogram unit.

4. Steel Rods for Reinforced Concrete:

There are different types of steel rods are required for reinforced concrete like 55 grade, 45 grade and different diameter like 8, 10, 16, etc. This is also measured in kg.

5. Brickwork Process:

Bricks should be laid with frogs upward except in the top course where frogs should be placed downwards.

Brickwork should be carried out for not more than 1 metre or 3 feet in height at a time. When one part of the wall has to be delayed, stepping should be left at an angle of 45 degrees. Brickwork is measured in sq. cm.

6. Plastering Process:

Plaster is a pasty composition (as of lime or gypsum, water, and sand) that hardens on drying and is used for coating walls, ceilings, and partitions. Plastering is one of the most ancient building techniques. This helps to protect the internal materials of the house. The unit is sq. cm.

7. Flooring Process (marble, tile, etc):

Flooring is the general term for a permanent covering of a floor, or for the work of installing such a floor covering. Floor covering is a term to generically describe any finish material applied over a floor structure to provide a walking surface. It is measured in the sq.m.

8. Weathering Course Process:

A course laid on top surface of RCC roof slap to protect it against weather elements like rain, heat etc is known as weathering course.

Purpose: Weathering course is provided to protect the flat roofs against weather elements. It also make the roof leak proof. It is a protective course and unit is litre.

9. Door and Windows Process:

Window and door schedules are a convenient way of presenting complex information about the different door and window sizes and types that are specified on the contract documents to ensure proper installation. This is completely wooden work and measured in sq.m.

10. Electrical Work Process:

In the final phase of an electrical installation, lighting fixtures and devices such as switches and receptacles are installed, appliance connections are made, and utilities (boilers or furnaces, air conditioning, well pumps, etc.) are connected. Learn more. It has some specific measuring unit.

11. Plumbing Work Process:

Plumbing is a system of pipes and fixtures installed in a building for the distribution and use of potable (drinkable) water and the removal of waterborne wastes. It is usually distinguished from water and sewage systems that serve a group of buildings or a city.

12. Septic Tank Work Process:

Septic tanks work by allowing waste to separate into three layers: solids, effluent and scum (see illustration above). The solids settle to the bottom, where microorganisms decompose them. The scum, composed of waste that’s lighter than water, floats on top.

Advantages of Estimation for Residential Building

There are many advantages of estimation, those are-

  1. Money-saving: It gives you a smooth projection of the project. That helps you to save the money from the project and all details of working capital.
  2. Speed increaser: Another advantage of estimation is it helps to increase the speed of the project.
  3. Confidence booster: It helps to increase your bid because it helps to increase your confidence.
  4. Another advantage of this is it creates a strong relationship between you and client.
  5. Estimation is a very simple process which also helps to understand between two parties and it is also very transparent.
  6. Estimation is a very flexible method; where, you can add or remove data anytime.

Disadvantages of Estimation for Residential Building

There are many disadvantages are there, some of those are-

  1. The main disadvantage of estimation is it creates large deviation from the accurate value.
  2. Estimation is not based on the material specification and drawing, this the another disadvantage.
  3. Finally, it is not a reliable method to use it anywhere.

Application of Estimation for Residential Building

There are different types of estimating software are available in the market. Those individuals have specific features. Some of them are-

  1. E takeoff Dimension: This software basically estimates the quantity and the cost of the materials. It can compare two or more different types of drawings. It can print drawing and that can be used by multiuser.
  2. Mothing: It also a estimation software which is based on Java. It creates a Gnatt chart. It can produce the tenders via online.
  3. Stack: It is the most popular software for estimation. It can estimate equipments, labours, required materials, etc. It can summarize all contractor bids and track the project status.

FAQ on Estimation of Residential Buildings

What Is the Purpose of Estimating a Residential Building?

Estimating a residential building provides a detailed analysis of the costs and quantities of materials and labor required for construction. It helps in budgeting, planning, and managing the project effectively, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and costs are controlled.

What Are the Key Types of Estimation Involved in Residential Building Projects?

The key types of estimation include:

  1. Earthwork Excavation: Estimation of the volume of earth to be excavated.
  2. Sand Filling: Calculation of the amount of sand needed for foundation filling.
  3. Plain Cement Concrete (PCC): Estimation of concrete required for foundation and other structural elements.
  4. Steel Rods for Reinforced Concrete: Estimation of steel rods needed, including different grades and diameters.
  5. Brickwork: Estimation of bricks needed for construction.
  6. Plastering: Estimation of plaster required for coating walls and ceilings.
  7. Flooring: Estimation of materials for flooring, such as marble or tiles.
  8. Weathering Course: Calculation of materials for protective weathering courses on roofs.
  9. Doors and Windows: Estimation of wooden work for doors and windows.
  10. Electrical Work: Estimation of materials and labor for electrical installations.
  11. Plumbing Work: Estimation of plumbing materials and installation costs.
  12. Septic Tank Work: Estimation of materials and labor for installing septic tanks.

What Are the Advantages of Using Estimation in Residential Building Projects?

  1. Cost Savings: Provides a clear projection of expenses, helping to manage the budget effectively.
  2. Increased Speed: Improves project efficiency and speed by outlining detailed plans.
  3. Enhanced Confidence: Boosts confidence in bidding and project management.
  4. Stronger Client Relationships: Creates transparency and trust between the contractor and client.
  5. Flexibility: Allows for adjustments to estimates as needed throughout the project.

What Are the Disadvantages of Estimation?

  1. Deviation from Accuracy: Estimates may differ significantly from actual costs.
  2. Lack of Material Specifications: Estimates might not always consider detailed material specifications and drawings.
  3. Reliability Issues: May not be entirely reliable in all scenarios.

What Are Some Popular Estimating Software Tools for Residential Building Projects?

  1. E Takeoff Dimension: Estimates quantity and cost of materials, compares drawings, and supports multi-user access.
  2. Mothing: Java-based software that creates Gantt charts and produces online tenders.
  3. Stack: Popular for estimating equipment, labor, materials, and tracking project status.

How Does Estimating Impact Project Management and Client Communication?

Estimating helps in managing project costs and timelines effectively, provides a clear understanding of resource requirements, and ensures transparent communication with clients. It facilitates better planning and reduces the risk of unexpected expenses and delays.

Can Estimation Be Adjusted During the Construction Process?

Yes, estimates can be adjusted based on changes in project scope, material prices, or unforeseen conditions. The flexibility of estimation allows for updates and modifications as needed throughout the construction process.

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