BidMagic Construction Estimating Software-- Roofing Length Estimates

Estimating Additional Roof Measurements

NOTE-- We retired the BidMagic construction estimating software in 2001. It has been replaced by Goldenseal construction estimating software.

We still include this BidMagic estimating software manual as a convenience for users of our older program. Many features are similar, in Goldenseal estimating.

The BidMagic construction estimating software calculates several additional roof dimensions.

Soffit Area--This quantity is the are underneath the roof overhangs, between the fascia board and the siding. It is not displayed, but it can be calculated by multiplying (Rake + Eaves) * Overhang.

NOTE: To use the soffit area in the Formula Editor, choose Soffit Area under the Roofs button (see page 265).

Valley-- Enter the total lineal footage of all valleys being worked on as a part of the project. A valley is any (usually sloping) roof line that carries water from the convergence of two roof planes.

HINT: Valleys occur above hip or gable dormers, above extra gables, and above the inside corner of an L-shaped building having anything except a shed roof. Valleys also occur at any other place where two roofs drain toward each other.

Downspouts-- Enter the total number of downspouts that will be installed, repaired or replaced, regardless of their length. Existing downspouts that will not be touched should not be included.

Parapet Length-- Enter the total lineal footage of parapets. If the project also has overhangs, the suggested quantity for Parapet Length will be based on 'townhouse' style construction, with overhangs at the eaves, and parapets on all other walls. If the building has no overhangs (using either interior roof drains, or canales going through the parapet wall), then parapets will be suggested on all sides.

NOTE: When siding area is computed (page 239), only the exterior surface of parapets is included. If siding material or stucco is also applied to the inside surface of parapets (or if it is not on the outside of parapets), use the interior and exterior Parapet wall areas to adjust the unit prices for siding materials (see page 89).

Dormer Wall Area-- Enter the total square footage of walls on the three exposed sides of dormers.

Gable/Shed Wall Area-- Enter the total square footage of additional siding in the 'triangles' under gable ends. Also include the extra siding that is above the eaves on a shed roof. This area will consist of two triangles on the two sides of the shed roof, plus a rectangle on the side of the building opposite the eaves.