If you want to learn construction estimating, you have a few course options to choose from, each with its own benefits. Two of the most common methods are live online training and self-paced learning, which provide different benefits besides both offering a certain level of flexibility that other methods cannot. These could be the right ones for you, depending on your preferences and goals, but if you prefer a more immersive learning experience, it may be worth your while to explore in-person courses. These are incredibly hands-on and provide in-depth exploration into all kinds of topics, whether that is a general overview of construction estimating or a specific skill, like blueprint reading or the use of different software.
Each method has its perks, so it really comes down to how you learn best. You may prefer a lot of structure and live interaction in a class or the freedom to learn on your own time. If you are an independent learner, a self-paced course could be a great option. However, if you need a little more structure, live online or in-person classes are a great bet. Read ahead if you are curious about learning which construction estimating training format is right for you and to get more insight that will help you compare the different learning methods.
What is Construction Estimating?
Construction estimating is the process of calculating and predicting the costs associated with a construction project This includes calculating the costs for materials, labor, equipment, and any other necessary expenses to get the job done. The goal is to estimate the total costs accurately to ensure the project can be completed within budget. Estimators rely on blueprints, project specifications, and data from past projects to make a solid estimate. They must also factor in concerns such as location, project complexity, and potential risks to arrive at the most accurate estimate possible. It involves in-depth construction knowledge as well as familiarity with materials, machines, equipment, and other tools.
This process is one of the most important for any project. Construction estimating is one of the first stages and requires deep thought and consideration. You will have to plan the budget for different phases of the project and adjust accordingly when market prices fluctuate. An accurate estimate helps contractors and clients make informed decisions about the future of the project. It can also help secure financing and allocate resources far more efficiently. Furthermore, construction estimating is an essential step in the entire process because it sets expectations for the project and serves as a benchmark for tracking the project’s process and costs. Whether it’s a small house or a large infrastructure project, getting the estimate as accurate as possible is important for minimizing financial risk and ensuring a successful project.
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Why Learn Construction Estimating?
Learning construction estimating is essential for anyone who wants to work in the construction industry. It helps you understand how to properly calculate the costs of a project, ensuring that everything stays within budget and your company avoids any unexpected expenses. Being skilled at estimating also means you have the skills to manage resources effectively and plan timelines accurately. This ability to make smarter financial decisions is a powerful tool and helps minimize risks, increase the chances of project success, and keep the entire team working more cohesively.
In a professional setting, construction estimating is crucial for roles like Construction Estimators, Project Managers, and Contractors. It enables professionals to bid on projects accurately, determine the materials and labor needed, and prepare realistic budgets. It is also used to track costs during the project and make adjustments as needed to keep the project on the right path. Knowing how to estimate costs also opens up professional opportunities in construction consulting, where experts assess and advise on cost-effective strategies for large-scale developments, renovations, and infrastructure projects.
Outside of professional opportunities, construction estimating skills can be incredibly useful as a homeowner. When planning do-it-yourself home improvement projects, you can use your estimating skills to get a better idea of material costs and prevent overspending. It also comes in handy when budgeting for personal renovation projects such as adding a new room or remodeling a bathroom. Regardless of whether you choose to hire someone or do it yourself, you will understand the methods behind estimating and know when you are overpaying or getting taken advantage of when negotiating quotes. It is a skill that helps individuals make informed decisions and stay within budget, even for personal projects.
How Can I Learn Construction Estimating?
There are many ways to learn construction estimating; the right one for you will depend on several key factors. For instance, live online classes are a great way to learn construction estimating if you like learning in real-time with an instructor and peers but dislike the idea of making a commute to class each week. This also applies if you live too far from a training center. Live online classes provide enough structure with class schedules, deadlines, and structured curriculum but still provide a little flexibility. If you feel confident learning when you can ask questions directly to the instructor and want an engaging environment, this could be an ideal method.
However, many people prefer or need a lot more flexibility than a live online class can offer. With self-paced training, you can go through the material at a speed that suits your needs and schedule. There is no pressure to keep up with live lessons, so you can take your time and review material as much as you need to truly absorb each concept. Not only can you learn however you see fit but you can still ask an instructor questions via discussion forums and offers for additional mentoring. If you are an incredibly busy person or just need a lot of patience, practice, and pacing to learn something effectively, self-paced training can make all the difference when learning construction estimating.
On-demand learning is another option that lets you pace yourself even further. You can access pre-recorded lectures and read through materials whenever you have time, even if it is in the evening hours after work or during the early hours on the weekends. You can watch videos, read content, and learn when it is convenient for you. It is ideal if you want to focus on certain topics and prefer to avoid a full course. On-demand courses are also perfect for those who want full flexibility and don’t mind having a lack of interaction. If you have an unpredictable schedule and prefer learning solo, on-demand classes are a good option.
Each method is better suited for different individuals. For instance, live online classes are good for people who like structure with real-time interaction. Self-paced courses work best for those who want the flexibility of learning at their own speed but still want some support. On-demand may work best for the hobbyist, current bprofessional-looking to upskill, or someone who has far too much unpredictability to enroll in a class. In the end, it is all up to you and your needs.
Level of Difficulty, Prerequisites, and Cost to Learn Construction Estimating
No matter how dedicated you may be to learning construction estimating, it can be a little difficult at first. This is especially true if you are a total beginner. You will need to learn blueprint reading, understand different construction materials, and figure out how to calculate costs accurately based on different factors. Doing the math can be a little taxing at times but you will likely find it easier as you continue practicing. Likewise, you will likely benefit more if you are detail-oriented and patient. It may take time to feel comfortable with the challenging parts, but once you have learned the basics, it becomes easier to complete more complex construction estimating responsibilities.
In addition, you may wonder about the cost of learning construction estimating. In truth, you need to consider your goals first and foremost. The cost of learning varies depending on what you want to get out of your training. For instance, you can enroll in a relevant college program but that will be the most expensive option, with most programs requiring tens of thousands of dollars to achieve. Next, coming in at several thousand dollars on average, certificates and bootcamps are relatively expensive but nothing compared to degree programs. Lastly, self-paced and on-demand classes may be far less expensive. However, there are also free resources online or in your local library or career centers. All in all, if you are looking for more formal training, certificate programs and bootcamps tend to be the most cost-effective while still providing job-ready skills.
Before learning construction estimating, it may be worth learning the basics of construction projects. Once you know what goes into a construction project such as blueprint reading, construction documentation, and the different kinds of building materials and equipment, it may be easier to understand the entire estimating process. You will need strong math skills, especially in areas like geometry and algebra, since you will almost always make calculations while on the job. Familiarity with certain software, like Excel, will help you organize your expenses and calculate the costs with ease. While you don’t have to have prerequisites, it helps to have relevant knowledge in certain skills to make your learning process far less daunting.
Advantages of Learning in a Self-Paced Environment?
Learning in a self-paced environment has some incredible advantages, especially if you like having control over your schedule. The best advantage is the flexibility to work and learn whenever and wherever works for you. You don’t have to worry about synching up with a set class time or logging in and avoiding technical difficulties. It is so much easier to fit this style of learning experience around your busy schedule, which means you can learn a lesson a day or spend as much time as you need studying a certain skill before moving on to the next. Whether you choose to learn day or night, a self-paced course makes it easy.
Another great advantage is the ability to go at your own speed. If you find something challenging, you can't take your time to grasp it fully. On the other hand, if you are breezing through a topic and feel pretty comfortable with the material, you don’t have to waste time on it. You are in control of how fast or slow you learn the material, which takes a lot of the pressure off of the entire learning process.
In addition, self-paced learning allows you to personalize your learning experience. You may learn best by viewing videos, like pre-recorded lectures and tutorials. On the other hand, you may prefer reading materials like articles and discussion boards. You may also like completing quizzes and hands-on projects. Self-paced learning provides all this while still offering the promise of flexible learning. You can move at your pace, learn when it’s best for you, and be confident in the experience through the curriculum, support, and practice.
Advantages of Learning in a Live Online Environment?
A live online environment offers several advantages that other learning styles cannot. First, the real-time interaction with both your instructor and classmates is a huge bonus. You can ask questions as things come up and get immediate feedback, whereas other learning styles do not offer this—at least, not at this level of convenience. In addition, you can engage in discussions that give you a better idea and deepen your understanding of construction estimating. The best thing about live online courses is that it is similar to having a classroom experience without needing to be there in-person.
Another plus is the accountability that comes with enrolling in a scheduled class. With live online learning, you have set times when you need to log in and participate. This means you need to stay on track and keep up with the lessons. If you are someone who tends to procrastinate, this means a live online course could be a good or bad thing. If you keep up with the material, you will thrive. If you put it off, it may be challenging. The structure can be a big help in staying motivated and getting things done if you prefer this style of learning.
Moreover, live online classes offer a sense of community that many people prefer over self-paced classes. Even though you are not physically in the same room, you still get to connect with others who are learning the same thing. Whether through group work, discussions, or solo activities, you will have enough to keep you engaged while also staying on top of your work. You are part of a learning group that makes the experience feel more engaging and allows you to connect with others more than usual.
What About Free Resources
Free resources can be an amazing option to learn construction estimating basics. This is especially true if you are just getting started or if you are on a tight budget. The biggest advantage is the cost. Free resources are, as the name suggests, free. You do not have to worry about spending money on a course or materials. You will find tons of YouTube videos, blog posts, free eBooks, and even free online courses that cover a wide range of topics. From basic construction estimating to more advanced techniques, you will be able to find a resource for any subject.
However, the downside to free resources is that they lack structure and depth compared to paid training. You are essentially piecing things together through different mediums and locations that could be time-consuming otherwise. This can leave gaps in your knowledge, and you won’t get the same level of support you would from a structured course. If you have questions, you might not get a direct and quick answer. While a free resource is great as an introduction to the field and a good supplement between courses or other types of learning, it isn’t enough to serve as a professional form of study.
What Training Method is Best for Me?
The right construction estimating training method really depends on your goals, schedule, and learning style. If you need flexibility because of a busy schedule, self-paced learning might be your best bet. You can go to the material at your own pace, so whether you have a few hours a week or can only study during the weekend, you can fit in your learning experience. Self-paced courses are great for incredibly self-disciplined people. If you do not have the discipline to stick with your learning schedule, this might be a difficult task. There are no deadlines to push you along, merely a guideline that you can follow. This learning style also allows you to customize your studying to your needs. You can spend more time on a difficult topic and less time on things that you have already studied or things that are easier to learn.
On the other hand, if you prefer the structure and style of a traditional classroom experience but still want a little bit of flexibility, consider a live online course. This learning style offers the flexibility of remote learning but with the added advantage of real-time interaction with an instructor and peers. This learning style is perfect if you need accountability and structure but still need the flexibility to learn from home, the office, or whatever suits your needs. If you have a strong internet connection from wherever you plan to study and thrive in an interactive environment, you will enjoy a live online course. Live online training can give you the best of both worlds: flexible, autonomous learning styles with structure and guidance throughout.
At the end of the day, the best training method for you will depend on several personal factors. You have to consider how much time you can commit to learning each week so that you can adequately choose a delivery method that works. You also have to consider how independent you feel about your learning journey. If you want a lot of support, you need to opt for certain training methods over others, like in-person courses. If you feel more confident learning by yourself and enjoy the freedom that earning style gives you, a self-paced course can work. If you want something in the middle, consider a live online class. If you're still unsure about which training method is best for you, consider what's most important.
Learn Construction Estimating with Hands-on Training at VDCI
You can enroll in courses focused on construction estimating and relevant topics through VDCI. For instance, the 20-hour Construction Estimator Course helps you understand the purpose of estimating and become familiar with all the construction estimating tools. You will go step by step through the process required to create an estimate. Furthermore, you will learn all the necessary terminology, definitions, and units of measure. Through various projects, you will learn how to estimate labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs. Finally, you will learn how to fill out an estimate cover sheet. This is a fully in-depth estimator course that gives you access to necessary software, project-based training, and instructor access. By the end, you will have earned a verified digital certificate of completion to show for all your efforts.
If you want to become an even more well-rounded construction professional, you could explore the 50-hour Blueprint Reading and Construction Estimating Course Bundle. This course covers blueprint reading for residential and commercial construction projects as well as construction estimating. You will learn about the various estimate types, master quantity surveying, and develop a strong attention to detail that is fully necessary when estimating construction costs. You will also learn to read blueprints by learning from a licensed Architect. You will understand all the different symbols, the relationships between the drawings, and the need for consistency and accuracy within blueprints. All these make for a well-rounded construction education that comes with project-based studies, additional mentoring, and a verified certificate.
A big part of construction projects includes handling behind-the-scenes planning, especially if you work as a Project Manager. The 40-hour Construction Management Fundamentals Course is a great place to start if you want to kick-start your career. From handling the site logistics and fixing any issues to scheduling timelines and handling estimates, you will learn how to thrive in the construction industry. Furthermore, you will practice document management and explore the connection between design and construction as well as their key differences. This course comes with bonus training, project-based learning, and software access. You will earn a certificate of completion at the end of the course.
The Construction Fundamentals Course Bundle gives you a deep dive into the roles played by the design and construction team. You will learn more about structural systems and how they work as well as the materials and equipment needed to create the project. For instance, you will explore different equipment such as the various cranes, scrapers, dozers, and excavators that are frequently used during a build. You will even learn about different soil types and subsurface conditions to ensure the site is cleared, installed with the proper utilities, and ready for the build. Plus, you will go beyond the exterior and focus on interior elements as well such as wall types, partitions, drywall finishes, and all the options for paint, flooring, ceilings, and casework. To wrap it up, you will study MEP systems such as HVAC controls and plumbing and safety precautions like fire suppression systems. Over 70 total hours, you will learn everything needed to start your construction career on the right foot. You will have access to industry experts for assistance, one-on-one bonus training, industry-standard software, and projects rooted in realistic workplace situations. Plus, you will receive a certificate of completion.