Concrete estimating is the backbone of successful construction bidding. Whether you’re pricing a simple slab-on-grade or a multi-level podium deck, the accuracy and clarity of your estimate can make or break your project. But without a structured system, even experienced estimators can fall into the trap of missed quantities, inconsistent pricing, or time-consuming rework.
That’s where a well-designed estimating template comes in.
Two of the most powerful tools for building concrete estimating templates are Microsoft Excel and Bluebeam Revu. Excel offers unmatched flexibility for calculations, while Bluebeam allows you to perform takeoffs directly from digital drawings. When used together, they create a seamless workflow from quantity takeoff to cost forecasting.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to build a concrete estimating template in both Excel and Bluebeam, compare their strengths, and provide a step-by-step checklist to help you streamline your estimating process.
Excel vs. Bluebeam for Concrete Estimating Templates
| Feature | Excel | Bluebeam Revu |
|---|---|---|
| Takeoff Capability | Manual input from drawings | Direct measurement from PDFs |
| Formula Automation | Advanced formulas for volume, cost, and labor | Limited; relies on external calculations |
| Visual Integration | No drawing integration | Embedded with drawings and markups |
| Customization | Fully customizable layout and logic | Custom columns and tool sets |
| Reporting | Pivot tables, charts, and printable reports | Summary reports and markup lists |
| Collaboration | Shareable spreadsheets via cloud or email | Real-time collaboration with Studio Sessions |
| Learning Curve | Moderate (depends on Excel proficiency) | Easy for takeoffs, moderate for advanced features |
| Best Use Case | Cost forecasting, labor planning, bid formatting | Quick takeoffs, visual quantity verification |
Why You Need a Concrete Estimating Template
A template isn’t just a spreadsheet it’s a repeatable system that:
- Reduces manual errors
- Speeds up bid preparation
- Standardizes formatting across projects
- Improves collaboration between estimators and project managers
- Enhances transparency for clients and stakeholders
Whether you’re a solo estimator or part of a large preconstruction team, a solid template saves time and builds confidence.
Step-by-Step: Building a Concrete Estimating Template in Excel
Step 1: Define Your Scope Categories
Start by organizing your estimate using CSI Division 03 (Concrete). Common categories include:
- Slab-on-grade
- Footings and grade beams
- Walls and columns
- Elevated decks
- Formwork
- Reinforcement
- Curing and finishing
- Miscellaneous (e.g., embedded items, sleeves)
Each category should have its own section or tab for clarity.
Step 2: Set Up Quantity Input Fields
For each component, include input fields for:
- Length, width, and thickness
- Volume (auto-calculated)
- Surface area (for formwork)
- Rebar weight (based on lb/cy or kg/m³)
Example formula for volume: =Length * Width * Thickness
Example for wall formwork area: =2 * (Length + Width) * Height
Step 3: Add Cost and Labor Columns
Include:
- Unit cost for concrete, rebar, and formwork
- Labor rate per hour
- Productivity rate (e.g., cy/hour or sf/hour)
- Total material cost = Volume × Unit Cost
- Labor hours = Volume ÷ Productivity
- Total labor cost = Labor Hours × Labor Rate
Use conditional formatting to flag high-cost items or low productivity.
Step 4: Include Summary and Reporting Tabs
Create a dashboard tab that aggregates:
- Total concrete volume
- Total material and labor cost
- Cost per square foot/meter
- Labor hours by phase or component
- Charts for cost breakdown by category
Use pivot tables to group data by floor, phase, or trade.
Step 5: Add Version Control and Assumptions
Include:
- Date and version number
- Assumptions (e.g., mix design, weather conditions, access)
- Exclusions (e.g., testing, pumping, embedded items)
- Notes section for internal comments or client clarifications
Step-by-Step: Building a Concrete Estimating Template in Bluebeam Revu
Step 1: Set Up Custom Tool Sets
Create markup tools for:
- Slabs (area measurement)
- Walls (length with height and thickness)
- Footings (length or volume)
- Columns (count or volume)
- Rebar zones (weight or spacing)
Assign colors, labels, and measurement types to each tool.
Step 2: Perform Takeoffs on PDF Drawings
Use the Measurement panel to:
- Measure slab areas and apply thickness for volume
- Measure wall lengths and apply height for surface area
- Count columns or embedded items
- Add comments for pour sequence, access, or special conditions
Step 3: Customize Columns and Data Fields
Add custom columns for:
- Unit cost
- Labor rate
- Mix type or strength
- Pour phase or floor level
- Notes or flags for review
Use formulas to calculate total cost and labor hours directly in the Markups List.
Step 4: Generate and Export Reports
Use the Markups List to:
- Filter by component or phase
- Sort by floor or drawing sheet
- Export to CSV or Excel for further analysis
- Create summary reports for internal review or client submission
Concrete Estimating Template Checklist
- Break down estimate by CSI Division 03 components
- Include quantity inputs and auto-calculated volumes
- Add cost, labor, and productivity fields
- Use formulas for total cost and labor forecasting
- Create summary dashboard with charts and totals
- Customize Bluebeam tool sets and columns
- Perform takeoffs directly on PDF drawings
- Export reports for client review or bid submission
- Document assumptions and exclusions clearly
- Format for easy updates and version control
- Include unit conversions (imperial/metric) if needed
- Link to material supplier pricing or cost databases
Real-World Example: Estimating a Podium Deck with Excel + Bluebeam
A mid-sized contractor bidding on a 3-level podium deck in Houston:
- Used Bluebeam to measure slab area, edge formwork, and column locations
- Exported quantities to Excel for cost and labor forecasting
- Applied mix-specific unit costs and regional labor rates
- Created a dashboard with total volume, cost, and labor hours
- Included assumptions for curing time, access, and embedded items
- Submitted a CSI-formatted estimate with visual takeoff report
- Won the bid with a competitive and well-documented proposal
Why Templates Matter in Concrete Estimating
| Outcome | Benefit to Contractors |
|---|---|
| Faster Estimates | Templates reduce repetitive tasks and manual errors |
| Higher Accuracy | Auto-calculated volumes and costs improve precision |
| Better Collaboration | Shareable formats improve team coordination |
| Professional Presentation | Clean reports build client confidence |
| Scalable Workflows | Templates adapt to projects of any size |
| Improved Profit Margins | Accurate forecasting prevents overruns and missed scope |
Final Thoughts
Building a concrete estimating template in Excel or Bluebeam isn’t just a productivity hack it’s a strategic move. With the right structure, formulas, and visual tools, you can produce faster, more accurate, and more professional estimates that win work and protect your margins.
At MSB Estimating, we help contractors build custom estimating templates, perform CSI-formatted takeoffs, and streamline their bid workflows. Whether you’re estimating a single slab or a multi-phase commercial project, we’ll help you build a system that scales with your business.
Ready to Build Your Estimating Template?
Contact MSB Estimating today to create a custom concrete estimating template in Excel or Bluebeam.
