Understanding the Process

Definition of Construction Estimates and Their Role

Construction estimates are detailed financial projections that outline all expected costs for a residential building project. These estimates act as a financial plan and are important for developers, contractors, lenders, and investors. They help determine if the project is feasible, secure funding, and forecast profitability.

Introduction to Measuring Residential Buildings

The process starts by reviewing architectural drawings or digital models to understand the building’s design. Professionals then take on-site measurements to confirm dimensions, identify structural elements, and evaluate site conditions that could affect construction.

Steps in Measuring Residential Buildings

Step 1: Gathering Information. Collect architectural, structural, and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) drawings. These provide crucial details about the building's layout, dimensions, and systems.

Step 2: Breaking Down Components. Divide the building into measurable parts like walls, floors, ceilings, windows, and doors. Assess each part separately to ensure all elements are covered.

Step 3: Measuring Dimensions. Take accurate measurements of each part using drawings as a guide. Use tools like tape measures and laser levels to measure lengths, widths, heights, and angles.

Step 4: Calculating Quantities. Use the measurements to calculate how much material is needed. This involves finding the volume or area of each component and determining quantities for materials like lumber, concrete, and drywall.

Step 5: Considering Material Specifications. Include material specifications in your estimates, such as types, grades, and finishes. This affects the quality and cost of materials.

Step 6: Accounting for Waste. Add extra material to account for waste, such as cutting and breakage, to avoid shortages and delays.

Step 7: Estimating Labor and Equipment. Estimate the labor hours and equipment costs required for installation based on industry standards and project needs.

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Calculation of Quantities

Linear Measurements

For linear elements like walls, beams, and pipes, measure the length and use conversion factors to find the total linear footage needed.

Area Measurement

For flat surfaces like floors, roofs, and wall cladding, measure length and width and multiply them to get the total area. For complex shapes, break them into simpler parts for accurate measurement.

Volume Measurements

For three-dimensional items like concrete pours or excavation, measure length, width, and height and multiply them to get the total volume. Remember to subtract any voids or spaces.

Calculating the Mass

Mass represents the amount of matter within an object, including particles like atoms, molecules, or ions. The standard unit of mass in the International System of Units (SI) is the kilogram (kg). Mass is measured using a scale or balance, providing a quantitative measure of the object's material content.

Material Specifications

Factor in material specifications like type, grade, and thickness when calculating quantities. Adjust your calculations to match these specifications for accurate estimates.

Exterior Measurements (IPMS 1)

Measuring a building's external boundaries, known as the Gross External Area, is crucial for planning and cost estimation in development projects. This section explains how to measure the exterior of buildings according to International Property Measurement Standards (IPMS)

Measurement Process

The Gross External Area encompasses the total space occupied by a building, including its outer walls. Measurements are taken for each floor, extending to the outer faces of the building's construction features. These measurements can be based on architectural drawings or on-site checks. If detailed plans aren't available, estimates for external wall thickness are used.

Special attention is given to features like roller shutters and openings, which are measured along the external perimeter line. For buildings lacking traditional features, measurements include covered areas like open-sided structures or canopies.

For attached or semi-detached homes, measurements are taken from the centerline between units. In multi-unit buildings, separate measurements are made for areas designated for exclusive use and shared spaces.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions. The Gross External Area includes all usable spaces within the building, such as walls, columns, and enclosed passages. Balconies, verandas, and internal structures are counted separately.

Exclusions. Elements like temporary mezzanines, open light wells, and external areas such as parking lots and patios are excluded from the Gross External Area. These are assessed separately if needed.

Diagram 1 shows IPMS 1 – Residential Dwelling Ground Floor (Level 0).

This includes the total area of each floor, measured up to the outer face of the building’s external features. Enclosed open spaces like atriums are only counted at their lowest floor level. Optionally, IPMS 1 can be broken down by each part of the building for every floor. The total of these parts should equal the overall IPMS 1 measurement. If basement plans aren’t available, the area should include an estimate of the external wall thickness.

Diagram 2 shows IPMS 1 – Residential Dwelling First Floor (Level 1).

It represents the total area of each floor, measured up to the outer face of the building's external features. Enclosed open spaces like atriums are counted only at their lowest floor level. Optionally, IPMS 1 can be detailed by each part of the building for every floor. The total area of these parts should match the overall IPMS 1 measurement. If basement plans aren’t available, include an estimate of the external wall thickness.

Diagram 3 shows IPMS 1 – Residential Dwelling Second Floor (Level 2).

It shows the total area of each floor, measured up to the outer face of the building's external features. Enclosed open spaces like atriums are counted only at their lowest floor level. Optionally, IPMS 1 can be broken down by each part of the building for every floor. The total area of these parts should match the overall IPMS 1 measurement. If basement plans aren’t available, include an estimate of the external wall thickness.

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