Using North America's most recognized construction cost data from RSMeans, this step-by-step guide develops problem-solving skills through over 300 sample problems and exercises. All of the major construction items, including site work, concrete and masonry, wood and metal framing, doors and windows, and more are covered. Access to a password-protected web site is included, which contains the instruction version of RSMeans Cos/Works, the electronic version of RS Means Building Construction Cost Data, and sample building plans and spreadsheets, enabling you to practice creating a complete construction estimate.

How to succeed in the construction business step-by-step guidelines for estimating To be competitive, contractors and homebuilders need to know how to generate complete, accurate estimates for labor and material costs. This book guides readers through the entire estimating process, explaining in detail how to put together a reliable estimate that can be used not only for budgeting, but also for developing a schedule, managing a project, dealing with contingencies, and ultimately making a profit. Completely revised and updated to reflect the new CSI MasterFormat 2010TM system, the Second Edition of this practical guide describes estimating techniques for each building system and how to apply them according to the latest industry standards. Cost considerations and quantity takeoff and pricing are included for virtually every type of work found in residential and light commercial projects, from demolition, concrete, and masonry to windows and doors, siding, roofing, mechanical and electrical systems, finish work, and site construction. Complete with many new graphics and references to professional construction cost databases, the new edition provides experienced contractors and novices alike with essential information on: How to correctly interpret plans and specifications, reflecting updates to contract documents since the first edition Computer estimating techniques and new estimating software for performing quantity takeoff The best methods for conceptual estimating as well as the extremely useful topic of parametric estimating How to allocate the right amounts for profit and contingencies, and other hard-to-find professional guidance How a unit price estimate is built along with labor issues and budgeting for subcontractor work

Get the confidence and know-how you need to deliver more accurate cost estimates and improve profitability. The 73rd edition of this bestselling cost guide has been updated and expanded to provide you with the information you need to: Estimate projects with confidence and accuracy Improve project planning and budgeting Reduce risk Access detailed construction costs, arranged in the CSI MasterFormat 2010 system, and leverage the resources available in the reference section to construct a winning estimate.

The first-ever publication to address the cost of all aspects of maintaining your facility: maintenance and repair, preventive maintenance, general maintenance and complete details about the cost and repair frequencies of thousands of work items. This book provides comprehensive coverage of all aspects of buildings and grounds, from preventive maintenance schedules on large boilers, to replacing fire hydrants, to resurfacing parking lots and more.

This concise student edition of the most widely used dictionary for construction and design professionals offers clear explanations of essential construction-related terms and concepts. Illustrated throughout with explanatory drawings and photographs, it is an indispensable reference for beginning and advanced students in construction, architecture, design, facility management, real estate, and other related fields. Features include: Easy-to-understand definitions of nearly 10,000 terms, phrases, and abbreviations from every area of construction More than 1,400 drawings and photographs that help clarify concepts Up-to-date coverage of new industry trends, including building automation, energy conservation, green building, historic preservation, and more An extensive reference section with plan symbols, conversions and equivalents, and more

The acknowledged bible of the industry, Means Building Construction Cost Data offers unchallenged unit price reliability in an easy-to-use arrangement. Over 20,000 unit prices for 1996 are given.

Updated estimates for popular projects. With new sections on home offices, in-law apartments and remodeling for disabled residents. Includes: -- Attic & Basement Conversions -- Kitchen and Bath Remodeling -- Fireplaces -- Storage -- Stairs, New Floors -- Walls & Ceilings