|
|
Material Estimating - Art or Science?
Over the years, we have been asked to estimate materials based on information received from blueprints, faxes, e-mails, photographs, phone conversations and sketches on 2x4's. Sometimes the information is well-organized and complete, needing little more than the science of mathematics to arrive at the correct quantity of material.
More often than not, however, there are numerous "blanks" to be filled in. Filling these blanks with the correct information is where the art of estimating comes into play.
How big is the home or building? How much material will be required to cover it? If those were the only questions to be answered, then basic math would be the only skill necessary to accurately estimate the cedar materials required. Unfortunately, every construction project is unique, with many variables to consider in preparing an accurate estimate.
The most common questions to ask
1. What profile/type of material is required?
2. At what exposure/spacing will the material be installed?
3. Which grade of material is required?
4. What material will best function in this application?
5. Is custom milling required?
6. What type of finish is desired?
7. When will the material have to be on the job site?
8. Will the material be matching existing construction?
9. Which is more important, labor savings or material cost?
10. What is the skill level of the material installer?
11. How much waste will the installer generate?
Since all variables can not be identified, WFP Cedar can not guarantee our material estimates. But, as the customer, if you "partner" with us and your installer, together we can determine if the material estimate makes sense and reduce the likelihood of costly errors.
|
|
