Estimating services
Structure & Sitework
These trades set the budget for most projects: they carry heavy material quantities, equipment time and sequencing risk. Estimates in this group are built from foundation, framing and site drawings, with quantities measured by element so they can be checked against the plans.
Structure & Sitework overview- ConcreteConcrete takeoffs and cost estimates covering footings, foundations, slabs, walls, reinforcement and formwork.
- FramingWood and light-gauge steel framing takeoffs: studs, plates, joists, rafters, trusses, sheathing, beams and hardware.
- Structural SteelStructural steel and miscellaneous metals takeoffs: beams, columns, bracing, connections, decking and embeds.
- MasonryMasonry takeoffs for brick, concrete block, stone veneer, mortar, grout, reinforcement and accessories.
- Earthwork & Site PreparationEarthwork estimates for clearing, stripping, excavation, cut and fill, backfill, compaction and site utilities trenching.
- Landscaping & HardscapeLandscaping takeoffs covering planting, sod, mulch, irrigation, pavers, retaining walls and site furnishings.
- DemolitionDemolition estimates for selective interior strip-out, structural demolition, debris volumes, hauling and disposal.
Building Envelope
Envelope trades are measured from elevations, roof plans and wall sections. Small details — flashing, trim, penetrations, transitions — make up a large share of the cost, so they are counted as line items rather than folded into an area rate.
Building Envelope overview- RoofingRoofing takeoffs for shingle, metal, tile and low-slope membrane systems, including underlayment, insulation and flashing.
- Exterior Finishes & CladdingExterior finish takeoffs for siding, stucco, EIFS, metal and composite panels, trim, soffit and weather barriers.
- Gutters & DownspoutsGutter and downspout takeoffs, including gutter profiles, outlets, hangers, leaf protection and drainage connections.
Interiors & Finishes
Interior trades are measured room by room from floor plans, reflected ceiling plans and finish schedules. Keeping quantities tied to rooms makes it easier to price phased work, alternates and tenant-specific scopes.
Interiors & Finishes overview- DrywallDrywall takeoffs for partitions, ceilings and shaft walls, including board types, metal studs, finishing levels and accessories.
- InsulationInsulation takeoffs for batt, blown, spray foam and rigid board systems in walls, roofs, floors and foundations.
- FlooringFlooring takeoffs for tile, hardwood, LVT, carpet, resilient sheet, epoxy and floor preparation, with base and transitions.
- Painting & CoatingsPainting takeoffs for interior and exterior walls, ceilings, doors, frames, trim and specialty coatings.
- Interior FinishesTakeoffs for acoustic ceilings, wall tile, wall coverings, wood paneling, toilet partitions and Division 10 specialties.
- Millwork & FurnishingEstimates for architectural millwork, casework, countertops, finish carpentry and furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E).
Project Types & Clients
The same trades are priced differently depending on the building type, the procurement route and who needs the numbers. These pages explain what changes for each project type and what we need from you to start.
Project Types & Clients overview- ResidentialCost estimates for single-family homes, additions, renovations and multi-family residential buildings.
- CommercialEstimates for offices, retail, hospitality, healthcare and mixed-use buildings, organised by CSI division or trade package.
- IndustrialEstimates for warehouses, distribution centres, manufacturing buildings and pre-engineered metal buildings.
- Public ProjectsBid estimates for publicly funded buildings such as schools, civic buildings and recreation facilities.
- Interior Fit-OutEstimates for tenant improvements and interior fit-outs: demolition, partitions, ceilings, finishes, millwork and specialties.
- Material SuppliersMaterial takeoffs for suppliers and distributors who need quantities from plans to prepare quotes.
Have drawings ready?
Send the plans, specifications and the scope you need priced. We review the documents and reply with any questions and a quote for the estimate.