Get familiar with the contract drawings

- [Instructor] We have already established…that it's important to know…how to read and understand blueprints.…Take time to assemble…all of the pertinent contract documents…needed to perform your estimate.…That includes drawings, specifications,…contract conditions, and all addenda.…You will save a tremendous amount of time…if these are all easily accessible.…Comparing and switching between multiple documents…is part of the process of estimating.…Make sure you're using the most current…or up-to-date documents.…

Develop a process that works for you,…but understand all projects are different.…Read the written material…especially the specifications and general conditions…prior to taking off the data from the drawings.…This process normally makes the takeoff process much easier.…The specifications will contain details…about the installation that will define your takeoff.…For example, the specifications may require…that rigid metal conduit be used in basements…or areas where conduit is exposed,…but a thin wall conduit can be used in areas…