Joe Dusel's Blog

Sharing My Woodworking and My Life

29
Mar

How do I come up with estimates?

I use two software tools to generate estimates for my cabinet jobs. I first design the project with the eCabinet Systems cabinet design software. This not only gives me the design drawings, renderings, cut lists and nest diagrams; but it also gives me a very good estimate for all of the board stock, moldings, sheet materials and hardware that the job requires.

I then plug the materials cost into an Excel spreadsheet where I have various tasks setup so that I can enter time values for everything I think I will do on a job. I break things down into dozens of tasks including everything I can think of. Here is some of my list – design, purchasing materials, milling, door installation, drawer box installation, line boring, edgebanding, sanding, finishing, delivery, installation, etc. Every time I come up with a new task I just add it to the mix. If there is no time for a particular task I put in zero.

The times that I enter for the various tasks are added up to give my estimated hours. This is then multiplied by an hourly rate, an overhead factor, a profit value and where required sales tax is added in. Once I input all of my numbers it spits out the job cost.

I find this to be reasonably accurate for me. Of course, it’s best for you to keep a log of how much time it takes you to do various tasks so that your numbers will be getting closer all the time.

I use the same method whether I’m estimating kitchen cabinets, bathroom cabinets, entertainment centers or almost any other kind of custom cabinetry. Pricing “by the foot” is not something that works for me.

Joe

2 Responses to “How do I come up with estimates?”

  1. 1
    kristi witt Says:

    Hi Joe

    I am interested in repurposing a built in book case in a client’s kitchen. The bookcase is 58″ wide.
    I would like to remove the lower shelves and add a closed storage area to the bottom portion of the built-in. The new “cabinet” underneath would bump out 6 inches from the existing outside edge of the bookshelf. My idea is have more storage inside and to provide a larger surface on top with a counter. I plan to paint the entire piece when finished.

    What would a small project like this cost using lesser expensive, but eco friendly wood? I have not met with a contractor yet, but was curious what you might have to say.

    Thank you for your help!
    Kristi

  2. 2
    Joe Dusel Says:

    Hi Kristi,

    It’s kind hard to come up with accurate estimates for custom work with out actually seeing what all is involved. I personally need to make a drawing of a project to get a good idea of what the materials will cost. It also might be a real nuisance for your contractor to “bump-out” this bookcase.

    I suggest that you contact a local contractor and have them come out to assess your situation.

    Joe

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