In the realm of civil engineering, the significance of estimation cannot be overstated. Before embarking on any construction project, it is imperative for the builder to possess a comprehensive understanding of the scope of work and associated costs. This entails a meticulous estimation of various components constituting the project. In this article, we will delve into the general items involved in estimating the construction of a building.
Before laying the foundation, it is crucial to clear the site of any materials atop the soil, such as vegetation and bushes. The measurement is done in square meters.
The earth is excavated to create foundation trenches, precisely matching the width and height of the foundation. The trenches are leveled both longitudinally and transversely. Measurement is in cubic meters.
This involves filling up the excavated portion to the required depth, either with on-site soil or soil brought from elsewhere. The quantity is determined in cubic meters and can be subdivided into foundation filling and plinth filling.
A layer of 1:2:4 cement concrete mixture with a water-proofing compound is placed between the plinth and superstructure walls to prevent water seepage. Measurement is in square meters.
The estimation involves calculating the quantity of PCC required for various elements like foundations, trenches, grade slabs, and sills. Measurement unit is in cubic meters.
This includes concrete in foundations, beams, columns, slabs, and Chajja. Reinforcement quantity is determined separately. Shuttering of formwork is calculated independently. Measurement unit is cubic meters.
The quantity, measured in quintal, includes bending and binding in position. Steel quantity is calculated from the percentage volume of reinforced concrete.
Approximately 30% of cement concrete cost, measured in square meters. The measurement considers the actual surface area requiring formwork.
The volume of brickwork is calculated in cubic meters by multiplying length, breadth, and height. Masonry work is subdivided into foundation and superstructure wall.
Measurement is taken as the surface area before plastering. Deductions are made for door and window openings. The quantity is calculated as area.
Quantities measured for applying 2-3 coats of whitewash or color wash are calculated based on the area.
This involves measuring the quantity of rubble soling and top flooring for both ground and top floors. Measurement is in square meters.
This section is divided into door and window frames and shutters, measured in cubic meters and square meters, respectively.
A thorough building estimation encompasses the precise calculation of all these items. It is vital to ensure accuracy in these calculations to facilitate successful project planning and execution.
