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To estimate this complex project, Coello & Associates used data from past projects to ensure they had properly accounted for time and materials. This included accounting for the time to tie all the rebar together, drill all the pins into the slurry mix for the footing and form the ellipsis. Elements of the project were discussed with the supervisors for the job to ensure all factors were properly evaluated in the estimate.

Bottom line
Although it may often seem like a tedious element for running the business, estimates are extremely important to the long-term success of a company. If estimates are consistently inaccurate and result in frequent change orders that increase the cost of the project, it can damage your relationship with the builder or owner. Spending the time to understand the job, site conditions and uses for the space while developing the estimate will pay off with repeat business and a solid reputation for accurate estimates.

The Concrete Foundations Association (CFA) was established in 1974 for the purpose of improving the quality and acceptance of cast-in-place concrete foundations. CFA provides promotional materials, educational seminars, opportunities for networking and technical meetings for members throughout the U.S. and Canada. For more information about joining the CFA, please visit www.cfawalls.org or contact the professional staff at 866-CFA-WALL.