How to Complete Labor Estimates Using the NCE
Basic Cost Estimating Steps using the NCE
- Identify the Construction Task to be estimated.
- Identify the materials to be used in completing the construction task.
- Calculate the amount of work to be completed for the task, measured by the units for the task (eg. Framing is measured in square feet).
- Find the task in the NCE. Use the search function, if possible.
- Estimate the total cost to complete the task based on the figures for material and labor for the task.
Estimating Example Using the NCE
A residential project needs a complete framing estimate. It is a two story residence with a concrete slab foundation. The takeoff shows that the first floor dimensions are 35’ x 41’, and the second floor dimensions are 32’ x 38’. Standard materials will be used, so it is appropriate to use the Carpentry Rule of Thumb section of the Residential division of the NCE (2018).
Step 01: Identify the Construction Task to be estimated
- Framing of two stories with a concrete slab foundation.
- Standard specifications for stud, joist, and rafter spacing (16” on center), riser count, backing, blocking and bracing.
Step 02: Identify the materials to be used in completing the construction task
- Framing Lumber: Conventional
- Subfloor: 5/8" OSB
- Rough Stairway: 15 Risers
- Rafters, Braces, Collar Beams, Ridge Boards: 2” x 8”
- Roof Sheathing: 7/16” OSB
Step 03: Calculate the amount of work to be completed for the task, measured by the units for the task
- Framing is measured in SF.
- The SF for each floor must be calculated to measure the total amount of work to be done.
- First Floor = 35’ x 41’ = 1,435 SF
- Second Floor = 32’ x 38’ = 1,216 SF
Step 04: Find the task in the NCE
Keyword Search: Framing
From 2018 NCE, p 33:
| Task | Craft@Hrs | Unit | Material | Labor | Total |
| Total framing, first of two floors, concrete foundation | B1@.146 | SF | 2.45 | 4.88 | 7.33 |
| Total framing, second floor of a two-story residence | B1@.191 | SF | 4.44 | 6.38 | 10.82 |
Step 05: Estimate the total cost to complete the task based on the figures for material and labor for the task
| First Floor Total per SF | $7.33 |
| First Floor SF | 1,435 SF |
| First Floor Cost Calculation | 1,435 SF x $7.33 = $10,518.55 |
| Second Floor Total per SF | $10.82 |
| Second Floor SF | 1,216 SF |
| Second Floor Cost Calculation | $13,157.12 |
| Total Estimated Cost to Frame | $23,675.67 |