Need Estimating Book

cdillard

Can anyone recommend a good book on cost estimating for home building/remodeling? TIA

Framer53

I have always used RS Means.com

Steve Manning

You can also check out getaquote.net for free. I think it is fairly close to means.

Willie T

I prefer Frank R. Walker's books and software. You can Google it.

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Ayerzee

I'll second the RS Means book, you could even save a few bucks and look into 2009 or 2008 edition (With the economy the past few years editions have been pretty close)

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rustyjames

I wouldn't go by the material costs in the 2008 edition because just about everything was at the pinnacle of pricing.

Ayerzee

Good point. The 2008 book would be based on data from 2007

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KennMacMoragh

I use the Craftsman national construction estimator, I think it's basically the same thing as R.S Means.

donrobert

follow this link:
http://www.frankrwalker.com/EstimatorsReference/
maybe it help you

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d-rock

how accurate do you guys find these cost books to be ?

Baron

I don't believe they'd be recommending them if they weren't accurate....but like all things there is a little bit of personal input and awareness to estimating that isn't in any book.

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rustyjames

Another good point since you mentioned that. I wouldn't go by 2009 either because the latter part of 08 prices were stong.

Rio

We use the National Construction Estimator Suite and it's okay but some of the prices seem to be too low. It does give us an idea on things we normally don't do.................

KennMacMoragh

True, I've looked at some of the numbers on the Craftsmen National Construction Estimator and thought no way. According to them it takes two guys half hour to nail on one ten foot deck board

Some of their prices or times will be too high, some will be too low, but most are pretty good. You have to double check and make sure they are kosher to yourself, or your business.

MACSTAFF

LOL, That's the Italian version Ken..LOL

tcleve4911

Home Tech

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cpm2009

Try free ones online first before buying. Try building-cost.netthat might help in your search.

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WilsonRMDL

try reading a book called handbook to construction contracting & estimating. I think its by Jack P Jones. Great book and shows good scenarios to estimate accurately.

I also use RS Means 2009 and its alright. Just gives you a basic idea but you need to know your pricing/labor from your own numbers.

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cdillard

Thanks again.

Does anyone see a difference between an RS Means "Repair & Remodeling Cost Data Book" @ $144.95

vs

"F.R. Walker Remodeling Reference Book" @ $20 / year online subscription? Is one that much better than the other is what I'm asking.

Framer53

I have always used the RS Means and found it more accurate than others mentioned, but if you want to try the cheaper...., Who knows??