Estimator Structure

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 features. Goldenseal stores estimates in database records, and provides a large variety of printed forms and reports, to use the information for your business.

Construction Estimator Worksheet Basics

Every MacNail construction estimating software worksheet includes several different sections, each with a different function. From top to bottom, they are:

Summation-- a one-page cost breakdown, showing labor, material and subcontractor costs for each main construction category.
Fixed Costs-- basic operating expenses such as wage rates, fudge factors, and sales tax, overhead and profit percentages.
Dimensions-- information about the size of the project.
Clearinghouse-- a detailed look at construction costs, showing both main construction categories and subcategories. If subcategories are not used, there will not be a Clearinghouse in the estimating worksheet.
Specifications-- a very detailed listing of many construction 'line item' costs. This is where most of the estimating calculations take place.

To get to any of the sections of a MacNail estimating worksheet, choose its name from the MacNail (McN) menu.

For more detailed information about each portion of a MacNail estimating worksheet, see pages 160-164.