Types of Estimates in Construction:

Preliminary, Detailed, and More

Accurate cost estimation is the backbone of every successful construction project. Whether you’re planning a residential home or a multi-million-dollar commercial development, understanding the different types of construction estimates helps stakeholders manage risk, allocate resources effectively, and complete projects on time and within budget.

In this blog, we’ll explore the most common types of estimates in construction, including preliminary, detailed, quantity-based, and more, explaining when and why each is used in the building process.

Why Estimating Is Crucial in Construction

Construction estimating is the process of forecasting the total cost of a project. It involves evaluating materials, labor, equipment, subcontractor costs, overhead, and more. An accurate estimate helps:

• Secure project funding

• Prepare competitive bids

• Guide budgeting decisions

• Reduce surprises and cost overruns

The method and type of estimate used depend on the stage of the project, availability of design details, and the purpose of the estimate (e.g., budget planning, bidding, or contract negotiation).

1. Preliminary Estimate (Order of Magnitude)

Also known as a budget estimate or rough order of magnitude (ROM), the preliminary estimate is prepared in the early stages of project planning, often when limited design information is available.

Key Characteristics:

• Based on historical data, conceptual drawings, or similar projects

• Useful for feasibility studies and initial budgeting

• Accuracy range: ±20% to ±30%

This type of estimate helps determine whether a project is financially viable before investing heavily in design development.

2. Square Foot or Cubic Foot Estimate

This is another early-stage estimate method that uses average costs per unit of area or volume based on previous projects. It’s faster to produce but less accurate than detailed estimates.

When to Use:

• During the schematic design phase

• For real estate developers or design-build firms

• For comparing alternative building concepts

While not precise, it provides a ballpark figure that helps with early decision-making.

3. Assembly or Systems Estimate

An assembly estimate breaks down the project into major building systems or components—such as foundation, structure, HVAC, plumbing, etc.—and assigns costs based on unit prices for each system.

Benefits:

• Offers more detail than square-foot estimates

• Useful for value engineering

• Accuracy range: ±10% to ±20%

This method is common in design development and helps owners and contractors identify major cost drivers early.

4. Detailed Estimate

As the name suggests, a detailed estimate provides an in-depth breakdown of all materials, labor, equipment, and indirect costs involved in the project.

Common Uses:

• Final bid preparation

• Budget approvals

• Construction contracts

Detailed estimates require completed construction drawings and specifications. They're typically prepared by professional estimators or quantity surveyors.

✅ This is one of the most precise types of estimates for construction, with an accuracy range of ±5% to ±10%.

5. Quantity Takeoff Estimate

A quantity takeoff is the core part of any detailed estimate. It involves measuring and quantifying materials from project drawings—e.g., cubic yards of concrete, square footage of drywall, number of doors, etc.

Why It's Important:

• Ensures material accuracy

• Reduces waste and cost overruns

• Forms the foundation of a bid estimate

Many contractors outsource quantity takeoffs to professional construction estimating services to save time and reduce errors.

6. Bid Estimate

The bid estimate is prepared by contractors during the tendering or bidding phase. It includes direct costs (materials, labor, equipment) as well as indirect costs (markup, overhead, contingency).

What It Includes:

• Detailed takeoff and pricing

• Subcontractor quotes

• Labor productivity rates

• Company-specific markup

Among the types of estimates for construction, the bid estimate plays a critical role in winning projects while maintaining profitability.

7. Control Estimate

Once a project begins, the control estimate serves as the baseline to monitor costs and compare actual expenses against projections.

Key Roles:

• Supports change order evaluations

• Helps with cash flow forecasting

• Identifies cost variances in real time

This type is essential for project managers to ensure the job stays within budget and on schedule.

8. Revised or Updated Estimate

When there are changes to design, scope, or site conditions, estimators prepare an updated estimate to reflect the impact of those changes.

When It’s Needed:

• Design revisions

• Scope increases or reductions

• Market-driven cost changes (e.g., material price hikes)

It ensures that stakeholders have accurate cost expectations throughout the project lifecycle.

Choosing the Right Estimation Method

The right estimation method depends on your goals, project stage, and the amount of information available. Here's a quick comparison:

Final Thoughts

Understanding the types of estimates for construction allows contractors, developers, and project owners to make better decisions at every stage of the project. From early budgeting to final bidding, each estimate plays a crucial role in reducing financial risk and increasing project success.

If you're looking to streamline your estimating process with speed and accuracy, consider working with a professional construction estimating firm. Companies like Paramount Estimators offer reliable estimating services using advanced tools and decades of industry experience.

Need Help Estimating Your Next Project?

👉 Contact Paramount Estimators for fast, affordable, and accurate construction cost estimates tailored to your project.