Anthony Brooks
Editorial Director | BIM Specialist | 15+ Years Experience
Anthony has edited architectural and construction content for major trade platforms such as ENR (Engineering News-Record) and Building Design + Construction.
He holds certifications in Autodesk BIM Management and has a background in Architectural Engineering. His expertise ensures technical depth, accuracy, and consistency in all estimating-related publications.
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How to Estimate the Cost to Build a Basic Church
A detailed, practical guide explaining how to estimate the cost of building a basic church, covering design, materials, labor, site work, regional factors, and budgeting essentials.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Using RSMeans for Construction Estimating
Learn how to use RSMeans step by step for accurate construction estimating. This detailed guide covers setup, data structure, assemblies, cost adjustments, and reporting for reliable and professional estimates.
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Pool Maintenance Cost Analysis: What It Really Takes to Keep a Pool Running in 2025
Understand the true cost of swimming pool maintenance in 2025. See monthly and annual expense breakdowns for cleaning, chemicals, energy, and repairs — plus smart cost-saving tips.
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How to Bid on PlanHub: A Step-by-Step Guide for Contractors & Estimators
Learn how to bid on PlanHub with a step-by-step guide for contractors and estimators. Find projects, review plans, submit bids, and improve your chances of winning.
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Drywall Estimating Guide for Beginners (Sheets, Mud, Tape & Labor Costs)
Learn how to estimate drywall like a pro with sheet counts, mud, tape, screws, labor costs, and waste factors. A beginner-friendly drywall estimating guide for accurate budgeting and quotes.
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Construction Takeoff Guide for Beginners
Learn construction takeoff step-by-step with this beginner-friendly 2025 guide. Includes measurement methods, industry standards, examples, tips, and a clear workflow to measure materials like a professional estimator.
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Regional Labor Rates: Comparing the Northeast, South, and Midwest
Explore how regional labor rates differ across the U.S. construction industry. Learn why wages are highest in the Northeast, moderate in the Midwest, and variable in the South — and what these differences mean for estimators and project costs.
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Low-Cost but Durable Materials for Residential Projects
Discover the best low-cost yet durable materials for residential construction. Learn how concrete blocks, fiber cement, engineered wood, and other affordable options can help you build strong, lasting homes without breaking the budget.
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Roofing Materials Comparison: Asphalt, Metal, or Tile?
Compare asphalt, metal, and tile roofing materials by cost, durability, and long-term performance. Learn which roof type offers the best value for your project based on climate, budget, and maintenance.
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The Future of Construction Estimating: How Automation Will Redefine Project Costs
Discover how automation and AI are revolutionizing construction estimating, reducing manual errors, cutting time, and improving cost accuracy for future projects.
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Interior Finishing Estimates: Costs and Design Factors
Learn how to estimate interior finishing costs accurately. Discover key cost components, design factors, and average price ranges for walls, floors, ceilings, and finishes.
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HVAC Installation Costs: From Estimation to Execution
Learn how to estimate HVAC installation costs accurately, from materials and labor to regional variations and on-site execution strategies.
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Permits & Fees That Affect Construction Budgets in Different States
Discover how construction permits and fees impact project budgets across U.S. states. Learn regional differences, hidden costs, and expert tips for accurate estimating.
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Understanding Building Codes & How They Affect Your Project Costs
Learn how building codes impact construction project costs. Understand key regulations, cost drivers, and smart estimating strategies to stay compliant and profitable.
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Impact of Supply Chain Issues on Construction Material Prices
Discover how global supply chain issues are driving up construction material prices in 2025. Learn which materials are most affected and how estimators can manage cost fluctuations.
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2025 Construction Material Costs by State: A Complete Guide
Planning a construction project in the US? Material costs can vary widely depending on your state, material type, and project scale. Understanding these variations is critical to creating an accurate budget and avoiding surprises. This guide provides average construction material prices by state in 2025, plus practical tips for estimating costs. 1. Why Material Costs…
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How to Estimate Labor Costs for Residential Projects in the US
Learn how to accurately estimate labor costs for residential construction projects in the US. Discover average trade rates, regional differences, and practical tips to stay on budget.
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BREEAM Certified Buildings – What Makes Them Globally Recognized for Sustainable Construction
Learn what BREEAM certification means for modern construction. Explore its categories, benefits, rating system, and why it remains one of the world’s most trusted sustainability standards for eco-friendly building design.
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LEED-Certified Buildings — Redefining Sustainable Construction Standards
Learn everything about LEED-certified buildings — what they are, how the certification works, their benefits, cost implications, and why they represent the global standard for sustainable construction and energy efficiency.
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Mastering RSMeans Data Online: The Ultimate Guide to Accurate Construction Cost Estimation
Discover everything you need to know about RSMeans Data Online — a professional construction estimating software that delivers accurate, location-based cost data for materials, labor, and equipment. Learn how to use it, explore its features, and understand why it’s a trusted tool for contractors, project managers, and estimators.
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Clear Estimates: Simplifying Residential Construction Estimating
Discover how Clear Estimates helps residential contractors and remodelers create fast, accurate, and professional project proposals. Learn about its key features, benefits, and real-world advantages for improving efficiency and client trust in construction estimating.
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ProEst Estimating Software: A Complete Guide for Construction Professionals in 2025
Explore ProEst construction estimating software — a powerful, cloud-based platform that improves bid accuracy, automates takeoffs, and streamlines collaboration for contractors in 2025.
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Green Building Estimating: How to Accurately Price Sustainable Construction Projects in 2025
Learn how to estimate green building projects accurately in 2025. Understand key cost drivers, certifications, sustainable materials, and methods to create profitable, eco-friendly construction estimates.
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Labor Wages in Construction Estimating: The Backbone of Every Accurate Bid
Learn how labor wages impact construction estimating. Discover key factors like region, project type, skill level, and unionization that shape costs—and see how modern tools improve labor cost accuracy.
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Getting a Free Construction Estimate: How It Works (2025)
Discover how to get a free construction estimate in 2025. Learn what’s included, how professional estimators calculate costs, and why a no-cost estimate can save time, money, and project risk.
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Construction Estimating Methods 2025: Unit Cost, Assembly, Parametric & More
Explore the top construction estimating methods for 2025—unit cost, assembly, parametric and detailed approaches—and learn how to choose the right method to improve accuracy and competitiveness.
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Construction Estimate Template: How to Create Accurate and Professional Estimates
Learn how to create a professional construction estimate template in 2025. Discover key sections, cost categories, and formatting tips to streamline your bidding process and ensure accurate project pricing.
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Impact of Rising Material Costs on Construction Estimates in the U.S. (2025 Edition)
Explore how rising material costs in 2025 are reshaping U.S. construction estimates. Learn why prices are increasing and how contractors can protect profits with smarter estimating strategies.
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How to Maximize Bid Accuracy and Profit in 2025
Learn HVAC estimating best practices for 2025. Create accurate bids, control costs, and boost profits with proven estimating techniques and tools.
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How to Read Blueprints for Estimating: A Complete Guide for Contractors
Learn how to read blueprints for construction estimating. Understand symbols, scales, and drawing types to prepare accurate, competitive contractor bids.
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What Is a Construction Estimate?
Learn what a construction estimate is, its key components, types, and process. A complete beginner’s guide for contractors to bid smarter and profit more.