Free Estimating Trainning # 5
Continued from lesson # 4
Identifying Difficulty Factors to Adjust Your Man-Hours
A. N = Normal – Installation of 2 x 4 troffers in a lay-in ceiling 9 feet tall or less.
B. M = Moderate – Installation of recessed lights in a lay-in ceiling 9 feet tall or less.
C. D = Difficult – Installation of bay fixtures using a lift.
D. E = Extreme – Installation of custom chandeliers or large architectural lighting.
E. P = Pole Lights – Site lighting. Assign each fixture its own difficulty tag.
This will expedite your counts and help in adjusting labor estimates.
TIP:
Do not assume that all 2 x 4 troffers will arrive with pigtails and bulbs or that recessed cans will include hangers. Always ensure that shipping costs are included in your quote. If the part number on the lighting schedule does not indicate these components, it is a risk that could lead to expenses falling on you.
The Takeoff
Begin by creating a takeoff sheet or using a product like Electrical Solutions’ computerized takeoff sheet. List the switch configurations commonly found on most plans. Your takeoff could be as detailed as you prefer, but the basic method remains the same. If the project includes multiple floors, it is advisable to conduct a separate takeoff for each floor. This approach provides better control and allows for more effective monitoring of man-hours once you win the bid.
Switch Takeoff
The next step in the estimation process is to count the devices, starting with the switches, in accordance with the order presented in most plans. Different approaches exist for this procedure among estimators. We have found that performing the takeoff in alignment with the plans saves steps once we secure the job. Some estimators only count the total number of switches for efficiency, while many estimating software options do not allow for the input of a 3-gang switch containing 2 single-pole switches and 1 three-way switch.
However, we have discovered that the Best Bid Electrical Estimating Software allows you to input any combination of switches included in the project.
06. 10’ of the raceway of your choice.
07. ½” EMT
08. 4 x 4 Box
09. 4 x 4 Box Blank Plate
10. 2-Connectors
11. 2-Straps
12. 3-wing nuts
13. 6-Screws
14. 33’ of 12 THHN (If conduit is used)
This would include a complete installation from the device to above the ceiling plus some. I personally estimate by increasing the assembly to cover the entire switch installation. This is achieved simply by including the
“Distance Apart” in lieu of just to above the 18 ceiling. By increasing the 10’ to 20/30, it covers the complete installation. When using an estimating software, the screws, wire, fittings, etc. will automatically be counted.
The following is an example of how the assembly would work:
By multiplying the number of SPST switches that were counted on the takeoff with your preset assembly quantities, you arrive at a total material list. In the following example, we will use the quantity of 100.
You can create an assembly for each type of switch and each configuration. There will only be slight changes between switch types and different configurations, but after you win the project, it will help with ordering material if you have these pre-sorted.
Note: Three-way and 4-way switches will take extra conductors.
Different configurations will take different plates and plaster rings. Read the specifications to determine the type of devices and plates that are to be used on the project. In this simple example, we have counted, in blue, 5 single-pole switches and 4 three-way switches. In the following example, we have counted 1-single pole switch in red, 2-2-gang switches in green and 1-2-gang switch with 1-single pole switch and 1 -2 way switch.
Note: Notice how confusing it is because I changed colors.
In the first example, I used red to symbolize 3/W switches and in the next example, I used red to symbolize a single pole switch. I recommend choosing a color and staying with it. Always use the same color for the same item.
Receptacle Takeoff
The next step in the estimate’s natural progression is to count the receptacles that usually follow the lighting pages of most plans. As with all phases of estimating, this procedure has different thought patterns. We have found that by performing the takeoff in the order of the plans and recording the devices as they are shown on the plans saves steps when we win the job. Some estimators only count the total number of receptacles because of the time savings. Some estimating software doesn’t allow you the ability to input quad receptacles etc. We have found that the Best Bid Electrical Estimating Software will allow you to input any combination of receptacles that the project includes.
Creating Your Assembly
Now that you have recorded the quantities, it’s time to create an assembly. This term describes the products included in the estimate for installing the number of switches you have counted. The assembly can be as simple as just a device and matching plate or as elaborate as you prefer.
Here’s a suggested assembly for a single-gang switch:
1. 4 x 4 Box with box supports
2. Plaster ring
3. SPST Switch
4. Grounding strap/wire
5. Face Plate
Some people choose to stop at this point, but including additional items can save steps later. I recommend adding the following components:
6. 10’ of the raceway of your choice
7. ½” EMT
8. An additional 4 x 4 Box
9. 4 x 4 Box Blank Plate
10. 2 Connectors
11. 2 Straps
12. 3 Wing Nuts
13. 6 Screws
14. 33’ of 12 THHN (if using conduit)
This assembly provides a complete installation from the device to above the ceiling and beyond. I personally estimate by enlarging the assembly to cover the entire switch installation, which is accomplished by including the distance apart instead of just measuring to above the 18-foot ceiling. By increasing the raceway length from 10’ to 20’ or 30’, you ensure it covers the entire installation. When using estimating software, the screws, wire, fittings, etc., will be counted automatically.
Example of the Assembly
To see how the assembly works, multiply the number of SPST switches counted on the takeoff by your preset assembly quantities to arrive at a total material list. Let’s say we are working with a quantity of 100. You can create an assembly for each type of switch and configuration. While there will be slight variations between switch types and configurations, having these pre-sorted can assist with ordering materials once you secure the project.
Note:
Three-way and four-way switches will require additional conductors. Different configurations will necessitate various plates and plaster rings. Be sure to read the specifications to determine the required types of devices and plates for the project. In a simple example, let’s say we have counted, in blue, 5 single-pole switches and 4 three-way switches. In another example, we counted 1 single-pole switch (in red), 2 two-gang switches (in green), and 1 two-gang switch combined with 1 single-pole switch and 1 two-way switch. **Note:** It can be confusing to use different colors. For instance, in the first example, red signifies three-way switches, while in the next, it represents a single-pole switch. I recommend choosing a consistent color for each item and sticking with it.
