Steel Estimating Services

As a steel framing contractor, you’re likely managing a range of residential and commercial projects that require precise and timely estimating—especially when dealing with heavy gauge steel framing.

With technological advancements in production and declining costs, steel framing is now playing an increasingly significant role in the construction industry.

Investments in infrastructure, institutional buildings, and transportation projects are further fueling demand for structural steel erection. Steel framing is now widely used in building exteriors, frameworks, storage tanks, and other infrastructure applications—making this the ideal time to scale your business and secure more contracts.

The Rise of Heavy Gauge Steel Framing

Previously hindered by cost, steel framing has now become a preferred option in both residential and commercial construction due to improved affordability and performance. In response to stricter building codes—often prompted by natural disasters—and the limitations of traditional materials, steel has emerged as a durable, lightweight, and flexible alternative to wood and masonry.

Its strength and ductility allow it to bend under pressure without cracking, providing enhanced structural safety. In high-stress situations, steel buildings often exhibit warning signs before failure, offering occupants more time to evacuate. Additionally, prefabrication reduces construction time, and the versatility of steel sections allows for easy customization in design and material compatibility.

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Steel Framing Estimating Process

Accurate estimating is essential for winning competitive steel framing bids, especially in a market affected by fluctuating material and transportation costs. Structural steel is priced primarily by weight, so understanding the dimensions and weight of each beam, column, and component is critical.

A systematic approach to estimation includes:

  • Identifying all framing elements by grade, section, or connection type
  • Calculating total quantities, lengths, and weight
  • Including all necessary components like bracing, plates, flooring, and connectors

Proper grouping and organization help streamline the estimating process and reduce errors, ultimately resulting in a detailed material list and precise project cost.

Why Use Planswift for Digital Takeoffs

Manual estimates leave room for costly errors. Industry-standard software like Planswift simplifies the takeoff process with pre-built steel assemblies and measurement tools, helping estimators quickly generate accurate material and cost estimates.

Why Choose Us

Rather than investing time and money into mastering complex software, you can partner with experts who specialize in steel framing estimates. At Lester Estimating, we bring years of hands-on industry experience and software expertise to deliver accurate, reliable, and fast steel estimates.

Let us handle the technical side of estimating, so you can focus on winning more bids and growing your business in today’s competitive steel framing market. Contact us today to learn how our steel estimating services can support your project pipeline and boost profitability.