Different Construction Types

All unit costs in the MacNail construction estimating software are based on our experiences with Turtle Creek Construction. We mainly did residential room remodeling and additions, most often in moderately "high end" neighborhoods, but occasionally pretty far down in the "low end". Our typical projects ranged from $60 to $120 per square foot (adjusted to 1991 prices), with a total project cost between $500 and $100,000.

NOTE-- We retired the MacNail and BidMagic estimating programs in 2000, and replaced them with Goldenseal construction estimating software. Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, scheduling and contract writing. We keep these instructions online for our die-hard BidMagic MacNail users! The calibration process for the Goldenseal estimating software, is similar to that for our older programs.

From user feedback, we've found that our database works well for nearly all remodeling projects, and for fairly custom new construction or additions.

You may need to make adjustments for the following types of projects:

• Tract housing-- our framing costs will definitely be too high. Foundations, roofing, siding, trim and some other unit prices may also be high, especially if you use high-volume specialty subcontractors.
• Extremely custom work-- many of our unit prices will be too low. Unless you do nothing but high-end work, you may want to set up a "high end" database with fancier specifications and increased prices, and use the existing MacNail database for your more normal projects.
• Commercial work-- our database works fairly well for "light commercial" projects such as restaurants, offices and retail stores. You may also need to add hardwood trim, formica work, or other specialties, depending on the exact style of finish that you 're using.
• Renovation work-- for mid-range projects, our estimators should work fairly well as is. If you are doing historic rehab work, "the sky is the limit" and you'll probably want to add some items to our database!