Using Estimate Specifications

NOTE-- We retired the MacNail estimating program in 2000, and replaced it with Goldenseal construction estimating software. There are still a significant number of die-hard MacNail users, so we keep the manuals online for them! Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, scheduling and contract writing. Goldenseal estimates are very similar to MacNail estimates, but they don't require Excel.

Estimating Specifications Columns

Specifications is usually the largest part of each MacNail estimating worksheet. Most of the work on an estimate is done here.

Specifications consists of a scrolling list of cost categories, each with one or more specific unit price line items associated with it. Before customizing a MacNail estimate, it's helpful to know the function of each column.

NOTE: The following descriptions apply to version 3.0 estimates only. Future estimates in The MacNail construction estimating software may have additional columns.

Item name-- (column A) a brief text description of the line item.

Unit size-- (column B) a brief text description of the unit of measure used by the item. It is usually lineal feet (ft. or lf) or square feet (sf), but other unit sizes may also be used.

Suggested units-- (column C) this cell contains a formula that 'suggests' a quantity, based on project dimensions. You can change this formula using Excel's formula-editing tools (see page 67).

Units used-- (column D) if the item will automatically be included in the bid by the MacNail construction management software, the formula in this cell will be equal to the 'suggested' cell to its left. Otherwise it will be zero.

Labor cost-- (column E) for items figured on a labor and materials basis, this cell contains a formula that figures labor costs, based on the 'units used' and the labor cost data in columns H and I. You can change the skilled labor rate in it (see page 205), or add labor adjustments based on project dimensions (see page 113).

Material cost-- (column F) for items figured on a labor and materials or sub and materials basis, this figures material costs, based on the 'units used' and the material cost data in column J. You can add material adjustments to this formula based on project dimensions (see page 113).