Concrete Estimating Terms Every Contractor Should Know
When you're bidding on concrete jobs, accurate estimating isn't just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. At Oasis Estimating, we help concrete subcontractors across the U.S. submit smarter, more profitable bids through precise quantity takeoffs and professional estimating support. Whether you're just starting out or sharpening your skills, understanding the terminology used in concrete estimating can help you communicate clearly, avoid costly mistakes, and gain a competitive edge.
Below is a comprehensive glossary of concrete estimating terms every contractor should know—including practical definitions and why each matters in real-world estimating.
1. Takeoff
The takeoff is the first and most critical step in concrete estimating. It involves extracting all the material quantities from the project drawings—like cubic yards of concrete, square feet of formwork, linear feet of rebar, and more. Errors here trickle down and impact your entire bid. At Oasis Estimating, we use digital tools to ensure accurate, repeatable takeoffs on every project.
2. Cubic Yard (CY)
A cubic yard is the standard unit for measuring concrete volume. One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet (3’ x 3’ x 3’). Whether you’re pouring a slab, a footing, or a wall, estimating the right number of cubic yards ensures you’re not short on pour day—or wasting money on excess.
3. Formwork
Formwork refers to the molds—typically wood, metal, or plastic—used to shape and contain poured concrete until it cures. Forming is a significant labor and material cost, especially on complex or vertical structures. Estimators must calculate surface area in square feet and consider form reuse, stripping labor, and bracing requirements.
4. Rebar (Reinforcing Bar)
Concrete alone is strong in compression but weak in tension. That’s where rebar comes in. Estimators must calculate the total weight and layout of reinforcement, factoring in bar sizes (#4, #5, #6, etc.), lap splices, hooks, and on-center spacing. Errors in rebar takeoffs can lead to structural deficiencies or surprise material costs.
5. Wire Mesh (WWF)
Welded wire fabric is another form of reinforcement used in flatwork and slabs-on-grade. It’s typically sold in sheets or rolls. Estimators must account for lap overlaps and cutting waste. Be sure to specify whether you’re including labor to place and tie mesh in your estimate.
6. Slab-on-Grade vs. Structural Concrete
Not all concrete is the same. Slab-on-grade refers to flatwork poured directly on soil, typically found in residential driveways or warehouse floors. Structural concrete, on the other hand, includes beams, columns, footings, and elevated decks. Labor rates, forming complexity, and reinforcement needs vary dramatically between these two types.
7. Waste Factor
A good estimator includes a buffer—or “waste factor”—to account for spillage, over-digging, pump priming, or unexpected pour expansions. For concrete, waste is typically 5–10%. For rebar and mesh, 10–15% is common. Oasis Estimating adjusts these factors based on project type, pour size, and site access.
8. Mobilization
Mobilization covers the cost of transporting crews, tools, and equipment to the job site. It may include setup for batch plants, pump trucks, and staging areas. For concrete subcontractors, mobilization can be a flat fee or a percentage of total cost. Don’t leave this line item out—it protects your bottom line.
9. Labor Rate
Labor is often the most variable cost in a concrete estimate. It includes placement, finishing, forming, and stripping. Estimators must account for regional wage differences, project conditions, and crew productivity. For example, a downtown high-rise pour with limited access will take longer—and cost more—than a ground-level slab.
10. Production Rate
Production rate refers to the amount of work your crew can complete per hour or per day. Examples: “Pouring 60 CY per day” or “placing 1,000 SF of formwork per shift.” Accurate production rates help you estimate realistic labor hours and schedule durations. They also keep your bids competitive without underbidding.
11. Curing Time
Curing is the period concrete needs to gain strength and durability. Estimators must account for curing when sequencing pours, scheduling crews, and calculating form stripping timelines. In cold or wet weather, curing times increase—delaying subsequent trades or pours.
12. Markup
Markup is the amount added to your costs to generate profit and cover overhead. In concrete estimating, markup percentages vary based on project size, risk, and client relationship. Estimators often apply different markups to materials, labor, and sub-vendor items. Be clear and consistent about where your markup is applied.
13. Contingency
Unlike markup, a contingency is a risk allowance for unknown conditions—often expressed as 5% to 10% of the project total. Think of it as insurance for surprises: bad soil, weather delays, or missing detail in the plans. On negotiated bids, clients may expect to see this line item broken out.
14. Concrete PSI
PSI (pounds per square inch) measures the compressive strength of the concrete mix. Common strengths range from 3,000 to 6,000 PSI depending on use. Higher PSI mixes cost more and may require different curing or reinforcement. Always verify PSI requirements in the spec section of the plans.
15. Pump Charges
For tight-access sites or vertical work, a concrete pump may be required. Estimators must include the cost of the pump rental, labor, and minimum yardage fees. Miss this, and you’ll be paying out-of-pocket for a big-ticket item.
16. Excavation & Subgrade Prep
Even if you’re not the one doing the digging, it’s important to understand how site prep affects your scope. Some estimating packages include grading, base prep, or vapor barriers. Others don’t. Clarify who owns what in your bid.
Why These Terms Matter
Misunderstanding estimating terms can result in underbidding, missed scope, or profit bleed. At Oasis Estimating, we not only know the language—we speak it fluently. That’s how we help concrete contractors across the country win more work, with less stress.
Ready to Take the Guesswork Out of Bidding?
If you’re tired of losing bids—or worse, winning unprofitable ones—let Oasis Estimating step in. Our team has over 40 years of combined experience in concrete estimating, and we specialize in supporting small to mid-size subcontractors with professional, fast, and accurate takeoffs.
Whether you're bidding slabs, foundations, or multi-scope commercial concrete projects, we can help you build stronger bids and better margins.
Contact us today for a free consultation or to learn more about our monthly estimating packages.
