The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California
Estimating Frame And Brick Houses
Order in Estimating
It will be well if the estimator will follow the order we have laid down in these remarks when making out his estimate—that is to say, he should first begin with making out the cost of surveying and laying out the grounds for the foundation. Then follows the excavating, bearing in mind the distance the earth has to be conveyed, also the kind of earth to be excavated, and the cost of drainage, if such is required to be done. Next follows the stone work, and careful measurements should be made from the plans, taking in and making such provisions for waste and extras as we have pointed out among the earlier pages. Be sure of the cost of this work per cord or perch in the wall before closing a tender
This will be followed by the brick work, and we would suggest that the figures for these various works be kept in separate books, and marked so that they may be referred to again if necessary.
In estimating the brick work be sure not to miss chimney projections, piers of verandas, porches and stoops. If the building is to be faced with pressed bricks backed with common stock, find out the difference in size between the two kinds of bricks, and, if any difference does exist, see how it is going to affect the work, and provide for it accordingly. Sometimes this difference is the cause of considerable trouble and expense. Figure up on the mortar required, and if colored mortar is going to be employed don't " jump " at the cost, but find out exactly. The quantity may be obtained for each 1000 of bricks in the early pages or from any builders' text book.
Timbers, joists, studding, rafters and other coarse lumber should be figured out exactly and classified according to price, so that the cost can be ascertained. Then follows the roof covering, shingles, slates or metal; floors, bridging, trimmers, strapping or furring, lathing and plastering. Measure plans closely in every case and be sure you are right. Next estimate for labor in placing floor timbers, partitions, roof timbers and all other rough carpenter work. Then follow with estimate of all finished wood work, frames, sash, doors, wainscot, mantels, stairs, trimmings and fitments throughout. Stucco work and other ornamental plastering should come next, then all the painting, glazing, finishing and varnishing and every item that belongs to the painters' trade.
