chuck How the estimate is calculated
Each line = quantity × unit rate, rounded once to the nearest penny. The estimate total is the sum of those rounded lines. When a line is exactly halfway between pennies, it rounds up. Rounding each line can produce a different total from rounding only the unrounded sum.
Keep each rate and quantity on the same basis
Use purchase quantities where that is what you will pay for. A measured area is not automatically the quantity you can buy: packs, containers and minimum orders may change the requirement. Use the material order cost calculator to check those costs first.
Include a cost once. If a unit rate already contains delivery, labour or another allowance, do not add the same charge again. This tool does not supply trade rates, infer missing work or establish whether an estimate covers the whole project.
Build from checked figures
The labour cost calculator can help price entered person-hours and rates. The quote comparison helps keep known scope differences visible when comparing offers. The estimate here remains arithmetic on the quantities and rates you enter.
Your entries stay in this page. They are not sent to an estimating service or saved by this tool. Reset returns to one empty item.