Estimating Tricks

NOTE-- We replaced MacNail with Goldenseal construction estimating software back in 2000. There are still die-hard MacNail users, so we keep the manuals online for their use! Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, job costing and project management features. It has dimension calculators that are similar to the spreadsheet formulas in MacNail.

Special Construction Tricks

The MacNail construction estimating software takes advantage of Excel's versatility to make a few 'side' calculations--it automatically adds prices for a few peripheral items that normally wouldn't be worth including in an estimate. We'll include an explanation of some of MacNail's special tricks here, so you can see how they work.

Building permits:

We have entered the City of Ithaca formula. To see it, click on the City of Ithaca row in permits, under the subcontractor cost (column G). It is based on jobtotal, the approximate project cost in Dimensions. You can use it as a guide for setting up your own city's permit costs.

Custom doors:

The MacNail construction estimating software keeps track of the number of custom doors (total interior doors, minus pre-hungs). It will use it as a 'suggested' number for straight doors and site-build jambs.

Hardware:

The MacNail construction estimator software figures costs for nails, screws, h-clips, door stops, etcetera, based on quantities calculated elsewhere in the estimate.