Preliminary Estimating Methods
Preliminary Estimating Methods
Preliminary estimating methods encompass a range of techniques used in the early stages of
construction projects to estimate costs, timeframes, and resources required for the endeavor.
These methods serve as guiding lights for stakeholders of construction projects, helping them
make informed decisions, develop budgets, and establish project feasibility.
Advantages
This method is extremely useful on occasions where the building’s client requires a preliminary
estimate based on little more information than the basic units of accommodation.
This method is often used as a crude means of comparing the known costs of different buildings
This method allows for quick estimations by leveraging historical data.
It is valuable in determining basic requirements, such as the capacity of a school, the number of
rooms in a hotel, or the beds in a hospital.
Disadvantages
Using unit method estimating method can generate a rough estimate quickly, but the lack of
accuracy will render it of little use in the cost planning procedure outlined earlier.
Cube Rate Cost Estimate Method
The cube method estimating is a single rate method of estimating based on the cubic content of a
building.
The total cost of the project will be given by:
Cost Estimate = Volume X Unit Cost (Cost/m3)
{Volume = External plan area X height X Cost (cost/ m3)}
The Cube Method requires more detailed and developed designs to calculate the volume
accurately.
This method of estimation is more accurate than the plinth area method.
Advantages
Quick method
Simple math process
Easy to understand
Satisfactory on works of a recurring nature.
Suitable where cubic content of a space or a building directly influences the cost of an
element.
This method enhances accuracy and helps in making informed decisions during the
planning and budgeting stages of construction projects.
Disadvantages
Need higher levels of skill to assess unit rate
Do not express the actual cost of different parts of the building
Due to large number of variables, difficult to adjust unit cost
Doesn’t provide any indication about amount of usable space
Fails to take account of variations in plan, shape, storey height/ total number of storeys
etc.
Costs per cubic meter may be difficult to find in countries where the method is not
current.
Advantages
This preliminary estimating method allows for a swift measurement process by utilizing
composite rates, saving valuable time.
Simultaneous Measurement: The approximate quantity method allows for simultaneous
measurement of items with the same dimensions (length/area/volume ), saving time and
effort.
Value Engineering: The approximate quantity method provides a solid foundation for
effective value engineering exercises. It allows for efficient cost estimation and analysis,
which can lead to cost savings and optimization during the project.
Assumptions and Cash Flow Projection: When using the approximate quantity method, it
is important to document the assumptions made during the estimation process.
Additionally, including a cash flow projection can provide further insights into the
financial aspects of the project.
Pre-construction Whole-life Cost Plan: To enhance project planning and decision-
making, it is beneficial to prepare a pre-construction whole-life cost plan. This
comprehensive plan considers the long-term costs associated with the project and aids in
making informed financial decisions.
Disadvantages
While the rules of measurement are straightforward, it’s important to note that they may
slightly vary among different surveyors, as there is no standardized approach.