Construction Estimating Blog
In-depth guides on construction estimating - bid strategies, software pricing analysis, and field-tested workflows from 8 years of contractor experience.
Electrical Estimating Software vs Excel: When to Switch
Excel handles a few quotes fine. Circuit counting, code items, and copper prices are where electrical estimating spreadsheets start costing you money.
Last updated: September 2026
9 Plumbing Estimating Mistakes That Are Eating Your Profit
Nine plumbing estimating mistakes that quietly drain your profit - with the real cost of each one, from BLS wage data to emergency pricing. Fix them before the next bid.
Last updated: September 2026
Markup vs Margin: The Mistake That Kills Contractor Profits
30% markup only earns you 23% margin. The exact math, the full conversion table, and what the mix-up costs you per year - real numbers, not accounting theory.
Last updated: August 2026
How to Calculate Construction Labor Cost (2026 Wage Data)
Your tech's $30 wage really costs $50+ an hour. BLS wage data for four trades, the full burden breakdown, and the math from base pay to a rate that pays you.
Last updated: August 2026
JobTread Formulas: Build Custom Calculations (2026 Guide)
How JobTread formulas work: the formula engine explained, sqrt examples for pipe runs and rafters, and three limits JobTread's own docs don't mention.
Last updated: August 2026
How to Price Construction Change Orders (Without Losing Money)
Price construction change orders in 5 steps: scope documentation, direct costs, markup, hidden costs, and signature. With a tiered markup matrix and real contractor examples.
Last updated: August 2026
How to Price Plumbing Bids (With Real 2026 Cost Data)
Price plumbing bids in 7 steps: service call vs remodel vs emergency, BLS labor rates, UPC/IPC permits, and markup. With real 2026 cost data and a worked example.
Last updated: August 2026
How to Use Construction Calculators to Bid Faster (And Win More Jobs)
Use free construction calculators to bid faster and win more jobs. A 5-step takeoff workflow with worked examples for roof, concrete, paint, and tile.
Last updated: August 2026
JobTread Pricing Change 2026: Cost by Crew Size
JobTread's 2026 shift from flat-rate to $199/mo + $20/user changed the math. See the real cost by crew size - and when Projul or Clear Estimates wins.
Last updated: August 2026
Why 67% of Contractors Still Use Excel for Estimating (And What It's Costing You)
About two-thirds of contractors still estimate on Excel. Here's why it sticks around, the hidden costs it hides, and when estimating software pays for itself.
Last updated: August 2026
How to Estimate an HVAC Job Step-by-Step
Estimate an HVAC job in 7 steps: Manual J load calc, SEER2 equipment sizing, labor hours, and markup. With 2026 cost data and a worked 2,000 sq ft example.
Last updated: August 2026