University of Toledo

Construction Engineering Technology

Master Syllabus

Course Title: Construction Estimating Course Code & Number: ARCT-1260

Credit Hour Total: 3

Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0

Prerequisite(s): CET-1100, CET-1150

Text: Estimating in Bldg. Construction

Dagostino & Feigenbaum ISBN: 0-13-377938-6

Software: Timberline Precision Cost Estimating Software

A. Course Description (Approved catalog description.)

Fundamentals, concepts, and strategies used in the process of construction cost estimating.  Organization of materials, labor, and construction methods are experienced; other information is   collected, organized, and utilized. 

B. Related Program Outcomes:

1. A development of mathematical skills sufficient to solve and analyze technical problems associated with construction projects including building, highway and heavy construction.

2. The ability to demonstrate a thorough knowledge of common construction methods and design procedures associated with building, highway and heavy construction projects.

3. The ability to demonstrate a thorough knowledge of common construction materials- both their proper usage and proper testing procedures.

4. An understanding of working drawings for residential, commercial, highway and heavy construction projects.

5. An understanding of codes and specifications in the implementation of building and highway projects.

6. A development and understanding of the proper management techniques of construction projects relative to budget, schedule, organization and contractual obligations .

C. Course Objectives:

Upon the completion of the class a student will have:

1. An understanding of the construction project bidding process and the documents required for bidding.

2. The ability to plan and prepare a construction cost estimate.

3. A knowledge of overhead and up front construction costs.

4. The ability to utilize labor productivity rates and material rates to determine quantity takeoffs for construction items.

5. The knowledge of quantity details and labor productivity for earthwork, concrete, steel, wood, masonry and finish construction products.

6. The ability to utilize computer software to prepare a cost estimate.

D. Course Outline

1. Bidding Process ( Introduction to Contracts Documents, Scheduling, Estimate Planning, Estimate and Contract Terminology)

2. Labor Rates and Productivity

3. Overhead and Contingencies

4. Quantity Takeoff and Pricing of:

i) Earthwork & Site Items

ii) Concrete

iii) Masonry

iv) Metals

v) Wood

vi) Thermal & Moisture Protection

vii) Finishes

5. Cost Estimating Software

6. Value Engineering

E. Suggested Laboratory Assignment

1. Cost estimate/bidding project