Changing Units Used

NOTE-- In 2000 we replaced MacNail with Goldenseal construction estimating software. There are still die-hard MacNail users, so we keep the manuals online for their use! Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, scheduling and contract writing features. Goldenseal shows a list of estimating items in a clairvoyant field, so you don't need to show every single item all the time, as happens in MacNail.

Customizing Specifications--Items Used

The original MacNail estimators are shipped with only a few items included automatically in the bid. This is the best format for estimates that will be created by an import from one of the Hyper *Estimator estimating programs.

If you frequently set up estimates directly into MacNail, you will probably want to create a custom estimator that already includes your most common construction items. To do so:
1. Open an estimator.
2. Choose *Specifications from the MacNail menu.
3. Scroll through the entire Specifications list.
4. Whenever you see an item that you want to include as a default, click in its row and choose *Include in Bid from the EDIT menu.
5. When finished, be sure to Save.

For example, if your 'standard' project includes a slab-on-grade, 2x6 exterior walls, fiberglas insulation, 1/2' gypsum wallboard and cedar shingles, choose those items in the Specifications list, and choose *Include in Bid for them.
When you use the custom estimator to bid a job that will have shingle siding, for example, you will only need to change that one item--everything else will be pre-set for you.