Plumbing Estimator Cheat Page
Learn the Basics of Plan Reading & Estimating
1. Understanding Plumbing Plans
- A Sheets: Locate restrooms, kitchens, and fixtures.
- C Sheets: Understand site water/sewer entry points.
- S Sheets: Check slab thickness, penetrations.
- E Sheets: Confirm power to water heaters, pumps.
- Mechanical/HVAC: Coordinate roof drains, condensate lines.
- Common Symbols: WC (Toilet), LAV (Lavatory), WH (Water Heater), VTR (Vent Through Roof)
Use the Riser Diagram to get accurate vertical measurements and pipe counts!
2. Takeoff Basics
- Start by counting fixtures: WC, LAV, Sinks, etc.
- Use the architectural and plumbing plan views.
- Measure linear feet of water, waste, and vent piping.
- Use color highlighters or PDF markup to separate systems.
- Always break pipe into straight runs, fittings, and changes in elevation.
Always double-check fixture count with the Plumbing Fixture Schedule table.
3. Manhour & Labor Estimating
- Fixture Rough-Ins: 1.0 – 1.5 hours per fixture (avg.)
- Piping:
- PVC: ~0.12 hrs/ft
- Copper Type L (soldered): ~0.25 hrs/ft
- PEX: ~0.10 hrs/ft
- Water Heater Install: 4–6 hrs avg.
- Booster Pumps: 5–8 hrs avg.
Use your company average rates for accuracy. Adjust for complexity and access!
4. Building the Estimate
- Material Cost: Get current prices (include fittings & hangers).
- Labor Cost: Total manhours × crew rate (e.g., $75/hr)
- Subtotals: Separate by system: Water, Waste, Vent, Fixtures
- Overhead & Profit: Add based on your markup (e.g., 15–20%)
- Final Estimate: Material + Labor + OH&P
Keep an estimating spreadsheet or software to build and reuse common assemblies.
5. Downloadable Tools
- 📥 Fixture Manhour Sheet (PDF)
- 📥 Pipe Labor Table (PDF)
- 📥 Plumbing Takeoff Template (Excel)
- 📥 Estimating Calculator Sheet (Excel)
- 📥 Printable Symbols Legend (PDF)
Print out these cheat sheets and keep them in your field binder or job trailer!
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