Construction Industry/QS- Commercial

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Expert: - 8/15/2007


Question
QUESTION: hi, i would like to know the advantages and disadvantages of using approximaate quantites as an estimating tool?

ANSWER: Rebehka,
As a general rule, "approximate" and "estimates" are somewhat interchangeable, but - as a General Contractor, I much prefer "exact" amounts and costs.  Some trades must use estimates because of waste factors, culling or selective use; - for example, if a bricklayer estimated the number of brick required as an exact amount, he would have to allow for windows and doors, cutting of brick for bonding courses and general waste or breakage in handling.  The exact number of bricks would be nearly impossible to calculate.  Another example, a painter estimates the area of walls and ceilings to be painted which in turn calculates into gallons of paint needed, but - the absorption of paint into the wallboard or plaster is an unknown and could well account for an additional 10% more paint.  So  - in conclusion, there is little advantage in using approximate quantities but it is necessary in certain trades.
I hope this was helpful

Roger

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: could you tell me "the role of a quantity surveyor in 2010"

Answer
Rebekah,
Quantity surveying will not change between now and 2010.  The Surveyor must "quantify" land area, soil conditions and quantities as well as verification of materials installed on the ground such as underground piping, sidewalks, paving of streets and parking areas, etc. as well as some items above grade such as the area of a building, mean height above sea level, mean height of the roof line, etc.  Electronically, these measurements can be made much quicker and more accurately but it requires a trained surveyor to determine boundries, property lines, etc.

Sorry if I was late in responding.

Roger

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Roger Zona

Expertise

I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.

Experience

After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.

Organizations
Previously - NAHA Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)

Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column

Education/Credentials
Michigan State University University of Detroit BS in Engineering

Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family. I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit. I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision. I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.

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