When it comes to planning a construction project, one of the most critical components is the estimating process. Getting an accurate estimate ensures that your project stays on budget, resources are allocated correctly, and potential risks are accounted for. However, when faced with the task of estimating, project managers and contractors often find themselves at a crossroads: Should they handle the estimating process in-house using DIY methods, or should they hire professional construction estimating services?
In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between professional construction estimating services and DIY estimating. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each approach, helping you make an informed decision about which method is best for your project.
What Is DIY Estimating?
DIY estimating refers to the process of creating project estimates without the assistance of professional estimating services. This typically involves using internal resources, such as spreadsheets, past project data, and online tools, to calculate material costs, labor expenses, and other project-related costs.
The Benefits of DIY Estimating
Cost Savings (in the Short Term)
One of the main reasons contractors and project managers choose DIY estimating is the potential for short-term cost savings. By handling the estimating process in-house, you can avoid the upfront cost of hiring a professional service. For smaller projects or contractors who have experience with estimating, this can seem like an attractive option.
Control Over the Process
When you handle estimating yourself, you maintain complete control over the entire process. This means that you can customize the estimate based on your knowledge of the project and its specific requirements. If you are familiar with local materials suppliers and labor markets, DIY estimating may allow you to fine-tune costs to match your particular needs.
Familiarity with the Project
As the project manager or contractor, you are likely deeply familiar with the project’s details, requirements, and goals. This familiarity may make you feel more comfortable handling the estimating process because you understand the nuances of the build. In smaller projects, where fewer variables are involved, DIY estimating can seem manageable.
The Drawbacks of DIY Estimating
Risk of Inaccuracy
One of the most significant drawbacks of DIY estimating is the risk of inaccuracy. Construction projects are inherently complex, and a single mistake in calculating material costs, labor, or timelines can lead to budget overruns, project delays, and even legal disputes. The lack of advanced estimating tools and industry experience can make DIY estimates more prone to human error.
Time-Consuming Process
Estimating is a time-intensive process that requires attention to detail, especially for larger or more complex projects. Without the right tools, DIY estimating can take up a considerable amount of time that could otherwise be spent managing other aspects of the project. For busy contractors and project managers, this can lead to inefficiencies and delays in starting the construction process.
Lack of Specialized Tools
DIY estimators often rely on basic tools like spreadsheets or free online calculators. While these tools can be useful for simple projects, they lack the sophistication and precision needed for complex estimates. Professional estimating software, like Bluebeam and Kubla, allows for accurate digital takeoffs, material tracking, and real-time cost updates—capabilities that DIY methods usually lack.
Limited Access to Industry Data
Professional estimators have access to up-to-date industry data on materials, labor costs, and other factors that affect construction pricing. Without access to this data, DIY estimates can become outdated quickly, especially in a fluctuating market. This can result in significant discrepancies between the estimate and actual project costs, which is particularly risky in long-term or large-scale projects.
What Are Professional Construction Estimating Services?
Professional construction estimating services provide contractors and project managers with detailed, accurate cost estimates for their projects. These services are offered by experts who specialize in estimating and who use advanced software tools to ensure that every detail of the project is accounted for.
The Benefits of Construction Estimating Services
High Accuracy and Reliability
One of the most significant advantages of using professional estimating services is the level of accuracy and reliability they provide. Professional estimators are trained to review every aspect of a project, from material costs to labor rates, to ensure that the estimate is as precise as possible. At Measure Manage, we use specialized software like Bluebeam to perform accurate digital takeoffs, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring that all project costs are accounted for.
Time Efficiency
Time is money in the construction industry, and professional estimating services can save you both. By outsourcing the estimating process to experts, you free up valuable time that can be used to focus on other areas of project management. Professionals are able to deliver estimates more quickly because they have the tools, experience, and knowledge necessary to streamline the process.
Access to Advanced Tools and Industry Data
Professional estimators use state-of-the-art software tools to generate accurate estimates. These tools can automate much of the estimating process, from performing material takeoffs to tracking pricing data in real-time. Additionally, professional estimators have access to up-to-date industry data on labor rates, material costs, and potential risks. This access allows for more precise estimates, especially on large or complex projects.
Mitigating Risks
Construction projects come with inherent risks, including delays, unexpected costs, and material shortages. Professional estimators are trained to identify and mitigate these risks by building contingency plans into their estimates. They consider all potential challenges, helping you avoid costly mistakes down the line. This level of foresight is difficult to achieve with DIY estimating, particularly for those with limited experience.
Improved Bid Competitiveness
In competitive bidding situations, the accuracy and speed of your estimate can make a significant difference in whether or not you win the project. Professional estimating services provide estimates that are both highly accurate and delivered quickly, giving you a competitive edge. With accurate cost projections, you can submit bids that are both competitive and profitable, without the risk of underestimating and losing money.
The Drawbacks of Professional Estimating Services
Initial Cost
The primary downside to hiring professional estimating services is the upfront cost. While these services provide high accuracy and efficiency, there is an associated fee. However, it’s essential to weigh this initial cost against the potential risks and costs of inaccurate estimates from DIY approaches.
Less Direct Control
When you outsource estimating to a professional service, you have less direct control over the estimating process. While professional estimators work closely with you to understand the project, some contractors may feel uneasy about handing over this critical part of the process. However, many services, like Measure Manage, emphasize close collaboration with clients to ensure the estimate aligns with the project’s unique requirements.
Construction Estimating Services vs. DIY Estimating: Which Is Better?
The choice between DIY estimating and professional construction estimating services depends largely on the scale and complexity of your project, your level of experience, and the resources available to you. For small, straightforward projects with limited budgets, DIY estimating might be a cost-effective solution. However, for larger, more complex projects—where accuracy is critical, and mistakes can lead to significant financial losses—professional estimating services are the safer, more reliable option.
When to Choose DIY Estimating:
- You have extensive experience in estimating and are familiar with the materials and labor required for the project.
- The project is small and relatively simple, with minimal variables.
- You have limited budget flexibility for outsourcing professional services.
When to Choose Professional Estimating Services:
- The project is large or complex, requiring detailed cost breakdowns and accurate material takeoffs.
- You need to ensure the highest level of accuracy to avoid costly mistakes or budget overruns.
- You are bidding on competitive projects where speed and accuracy are crucial for success.
- You lack access to advanced estimating tools or up-to-date industry data.
How Measure Manage Can Help
At Measure Manage, we specialize in providing accurate, efficient construction estimating services that take the guesswork out of project planning. Our team uses advanced tools like Bluebeam to deliver precise estimates, whether you’re managing a residential build or a large commercial project. With over 20 years of industry experience, we ensure that every aspect of your project is accounted for, reducing the risk of budget overruns and delays.
Ready for Accurate and Reliable Estimates?
If you’re ready to take the next step in improving your construction project’s accuracy and efficiency, contact Measure Manage today for a quote. Let our professional team handle the estimating process so you can focus on what you do best—building success.
