Field notes, unit conversions, and quantity references. Bookmark what you need.
Area: 1 m² = 10.7639 ft²; 1 ft² = 0.0929 m². Enter total floor area (project × floors) in the calculator's Total Area field.
Volume: Aggregate is measured in cubic feet (ft³). 1 m³ = 35.3147 ft³.
Weight: Steel is Kg. 1 US Ton = 907.18 Kg. 1 Metric Ton = 1000 Kg.
Cement Bags: Standard bag = 50 Kg (metric) or 94 lb (US). Adjust unit cost accordingly.
These are reference points only — always use your actual quotes:
Never let the calculator invent a number for you. Enter what you were quoted.
These are conservative Indian/Asian residential norms. Adjust for your regional standard by editing the area value or using manual entry.
An 8-hour day is the reference. If your crew averages 6 productive hours, adjust hours (not rate) to reflect reality.
General labor: $18–$30/hour. Skilled labor (finish carpentry, electric, HVAC): $35–$85/hour. Regional multipliers apply.
Residential: Building permit, architectural plans, structural plans, site survey, zoning, insurance.
Commercial: Add ADA compliance, fire safety, environmental review.
Industrial: Add OSHA, hazmat, environmental permits.
Renovation: Renovation permit + asbestos/lead paint inspection where applicable.
Small residential contractors: 10–20% overhead, 8–15% profit.
Commercial GCs: 15–25% overhead, 5–12% profit.
These stack — overhead is computed on subtotal, then profit on (subtotal + overhead). See the methodology page.
Use these guides while filling the calculator.