Using Material Codes

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 allows you to choose materials from a popup list, so you don't need to use codes.

Working with Material Codes

The MacNail construction estimating software uses material codes to identify each material item in a set of Material Price Files. For material calculations to proceed smoothly, the same material codes must also be used in the Price Sheet, Comparisons and Assemblies files.

If you are able to 'download' lumber prices from your lumber yard via modem or floppy disk, you may want to convert the MacNail system of material codes to one that matches the one used by your local lumberyard.