The takeoff and estimating of metal decking involves more than simply the area of the floor or roof and the type of deck specified or shown on the drawings. Many different sizes and types of openings may exist. Small openings for individual pipes or conduits may be drilled after the floor or roof is installed, but larger openings may require special deck lengths as well as reinforcing or structural support. The estimator should determine who will be supplying this reinforcing.

Additionally, some deck terminations are part of the deck package, such as screed angles and pour stops, and others will be part of the steel contract, such as angles attached to structural members and cast-in-pace angles and plates. The estimator must ensure that all pieces are accounted for in the complete estimate.

Additional Metals Estimating Tips

Plates and Connections - When estimating the total tonnage of structural steel, add 10% to the total weight to allow for plates, connections, and waste as a rule of thumb.

Shop-Applied Finish Paint - When the specifications call for the finish coat of paint to be applied prior to installation, allow considerable time for touching up the paint. Every time you lift, move, weld, bolt, or alter the position of a piece of steel, you will need to touch up the finish.

Read more metals estimating tips.