Construction Estimation Guides
Step-by-step guides to estimating materials the way pros do it. Real formulas, real waste factors, and the shortcuts that separate bids that win from bids that bleed.
How to Calculate Concrete for a Slab, Footing, or Column
Cubic yards, bag counts, waste factor, and the shape-by-shape formulas pros use. Covers slabs, footings, columns, and stairs.
Read guide → RoofingHow to Estimate Roofing Materials
Squares, bundles, pitch multipliers, underlayment, ridge cap, drip edge, and the waste factors that change with roof complexity.
Read guide → PaintHow to Calculate Paint Coverage
Gallons for walls, ceilings, and exteriors — including primer, multi-coat factoring, and real-world coverage by surface type.
Read guide → FlooringHow to Calculate Flooring for Any Room
Square footage, material-specific waste factors, and box counts for hardwood, LVP, laminate, tile, and carpet. Covers stairs and transitions too.
Read guide → DrywallHow to Calculate Drywall Sheets, Mud, and Tape
Sheet count by 4×8, 4×10, or 4×12, plus screws, joint compound, tape, and corner bead. With waste factors and opening subtractions.
Read guide → FramingHow to Calculate Framing Lumber
Studs, plates, headers, joists, and rafters by linear foot and OC spacing. Covers pitch-adjusted rafter lengths and board-foot conversions.
Read guide →Or run the numbers directly
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