Concrete Estimator Cheat Page
Learn the Basics of Concrete Plan Reading & Estimating
1. Understanding Concrete Plans
- S Sheets (Structural): Show foundation, slab, footings, and structural concrete details.
- A Sheets: Help with slab elevations, finishes, and scoring patterns.
- Schedules: Column, footing, and wall schedules define dimensions and rebar.
- Notes: Always check general notes for PSI, slump, admixtures, and curing requirements.
Use callouts and details to understand concrete thickness, edge conditions, and reinforcements!
2. Takeoff Basics
- Calculate SF of slabs, LF of footings, and CY of concrete required
- Break out takeoff by element: slab, footings, walls, columns
- Include rebar, mesh, vapor barriers, and formwork
- Use trench dimensions for linear and cubic foot takeoff
Convert all volumes to cubic yards — remember to add 5–10% for waste!
3. Manhour & Labor Estimating
- Concrete Placement: ~0.30 hr/CY (flatwork)
- Formwork: ~0.75–1.25 hr/SF (based on complexity)
- Rebar Install: ~0.10–0.20 hr/lb
- Finish Work: ~0.20–0.40 hr/SF
Adjust labor for site access, pump truck use, and weather limitations.
4. Building the Estimate
- Material Cost: Concrete, rebar, mesh, vapor barrier, form materials
- Labor Cost: Total manhours × rate (e.g., $75/hr)
- Pumping: Include cost if concrete pump is required
- OH&P: Add markup based on business structure
Use prebuilt formulas in Excel to calculate CY from slab thickness and area!
5. Downloadable Tools
- 📥 Concrete Volume Calculator (Excel)
- 📥 Rebar Labor Chart (PDF)
- 📥 Formwork Labor Table (PDF)
- 📥 Concrete Takeoff Sheet (Excel)
- 📥 Concrete Symbol & Detail Legend (PDF)
Print out labor charts and paste them in your field binder for reference!