Key Takeaways
- Turn mechanical takeoff into a priced estimate with your local rates.
- Line-item audit trail — defensible, not a spreadsheet black box.
- Reference Mechanical costs: $25-80/LF/process piping, $1,500-6,000/EA/pump installed, Varies/equipment set.
- Estimate flows directly into AIA G702/G703 billing.
Mechanical estimating, step by step
- Quantities come from takeoff — pipe runs and fittings and more.
- Price materials: Process piping, Pumps and equipment, Valves and fittings, Ductwork.
- Apply your burdened labor rate ($55-100/hr (pipefitters/mechanics)).
- Add overhead (10-20%) and profit (5-15%) per your books.
- Sanity-check per SF or per unit against the ranges below.
Mechanical cost reference
| Item | Typical range | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Process piping | $25-80/LF | |
| Pump installed | $1,500-6,000/EA | |
| Equipment set | Varies |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mechanical estimating software?
It takes your mechanical quantities and builds a priced estimate — material, labor, equipment, overhead, and profit — line by line, with your local rates instead of generic national averages.
How does Mechanical estimating work in CyanBuild?
Takeoff produces quantities, which flow directly into the estimate. You price each line with your $55-100/hr rate and material costs, add overhead and profit, and export a defensible bid.
Can I use my own Mechanical cost data?
Yes. Use the built-in reference ranges as a starting point, then override with your vendor quotes and historical job costs — your own data is always more accurate than national averages.
What Mechanical costs should I budget?
Typical ranges: $25-80/LF for process piping; $1,500-6,000/EA for pump installed; Varies for equipment set. Labor runs about $55-100/hr (pipefitters/mechanics).
Does the estimate flow into billing?
Yes — your CyanBuild estimate becomes your Schedule of Values, which feeds AIA G702/G703 pay applications, so your estimate and billing stay in sync.