David Lopez
Certified Cost Engineer (CCE) | 22+ Years Experience
David is a Certified Cost Engineer (CCE) through AACE International, with over two decades in cost control and project estimating for U.S. commercial construction.
He has reviewed cost methodologies for Fluor Corporation and Kiewit, ensuring all technical content adheres to AACE Recommended Practices. David’s reviews guarantee precision and practical value for readers.
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How to Use ProEst for Construction Estimating (Step-by-Step Guide)
Learn how to use ProEst step by step for professional construction estimating. This detailed guide covers setup, digital takeoffs, cost databases, markups, and reporting to help you bid smarter and faster.
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Prefabricated Homes: Cost Analysis and Durability Analysis
Discover the true cost and durability of prefabricated homes in 2025. Learn how modular, panelized, and manufactured houses compare in price, strength, and long-term value.
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How to Use ConstructConnect: A Complete Guide for Contractors & Estimators
Learn how to use ConstructConnect to find construction projects, access plans, track bids, connect with contractors, and streamline your estimating process.
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Concrete Slab Cost Per Square Foot (2025 Pricing & Calculation Guide)
Get accurate 2025 concrete slab cost estimates per square foot, including material, labor, rebar, site prep, and cubic yard calculations for patios, driveways, and garage slabs.
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Basement Finishing Costs by Square Foot
Curious about basement finishing costs in 2025? Learn how much you’ll spend per square foot based on design, materials, labor, and region. Get expert insights on budgeting, upgrades, and cost-saving tips before you start your basement project.
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How to Read Construction Blueprints for Estimating
Learn how to read construction blueprints for accurate estimating. This guide covers essential symbols, scales, and techniques to help estimators decipher plans and perform precise quantity takeoffs.
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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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Top 5 AI Estimating Tools
Explore the top 5 AI estimating tools of 2025 transforming the construction industry. Discover which software offers the best automation, accuracy, and cost-saving features for modern estimators and contractors.
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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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AI in Construction Project Management: What to Expect by 2030
Explore how AI will transform construction project management by 2030 — from predictive scheduling and risk forecasting to cost efficiency and smarter workforce coordination.
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Exterior Finishing Estimates: Materials, Labor, and Regional Cost Trends
Learn how to accurately estimate exterior finishing costs. Explore materials, labor rates, and regional cost trends that impact siding, painting, and cladding budgets.
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Plumbing Work Estimates: Common Mistakes and Cost Ranges
Learn how to accurately estimate plumbing work costs. Discover common estimator mistakes, essential cost components, and average price ranges for plumbing projects in the US.
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AI-Powered Estimating: The Future of Construction Cost Analysis
Discover how AI is revolutionizing construction estimating. Learn how machine learning, predictive modeling, and blueprint scanning tools make cost analysis faster, smarter, and more accurate
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How to Prepare a Construction Estimate from Scratch
Creating a construction estimate from scratch can seem daunting, especially for new contractors, homeowners, or project managers. Accurate estimates help avoid budget overruns, schedule delays, and costly mistakes. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, making it simple to build a reliable construction estimate. 1. Understand the Project Scope Before estimating costs, you…
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Understanding the Northeast: Why It’s a High-Cost Zone for Construction in the United States
The U.S. Northeast consistently ranks as one of the highest-cost regions for construction. Explore the factors driving its elevated building expenses — from labor markets and material logistics to regulations, weather, and urban density — and learn how professional estimators account for these cost dynamics in accurate project forecasting.
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Sage Estimating: The Ultimate Solution for Professional Construction Estimates in 2025
Learn how Sage Estimating empowers contractors with data-driven cost estimation, integrated accounting, and detailed reporting. Discover its top features, advantages, and why it’s the go-to estimating solution for construction professionals in 2025.
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PlanSwift Estimating Software: The Complete 2025 Guide for Accurate Construction Takeoffs
Discover how PlanSwift simplifies digital takeoffs and construction estimating in 2025. Learn about its key features, benefits, and comparison with other top estimating tools for accurate, profitable bidding.
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Geographical Pricing Differences in Construction Estimating: What Every Contractor Should Know
Understand how geographical pricing differences impact construction estimating. Learn how location, labor, materials, and local regulations affect project costs and how professional estimators adjust for regional variations.
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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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House Construction Estimate: Step-by-Step Guide to Building Cost Calculation in 2025
Learn how to create an accurate house construction estimate in 2025. Discover step-by-step methods, cost breakdowns, and tools to calculate material, labor, and overhead expenses for profitable residential projects.
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Early-Stage Estimating and Budgeting for Commercial Projects: What Estimators Must Know Before Drawings Exist (2025 Guide)
Learn how expert estimators develop accurate early-stage budgets before drawings exist. Discover key data sources, methods, and 2025 trends that make conceptual estimating more reliable for commercial projects.
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Concrete Estimating Guide: How to Estimate and Win More Projects in 2025
Master concrete estimating in 2025 with this step-by-step guide. Learn how to prepare accurate bids, control costs, and win more concrete projects.
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Construction Takeoff: How to Measure and Quantify Materials from Blueprints
When it comes to winning bids and maximizing project profitability, accuracy in takeoffs can make or break your construction estimate. Whether you’re a general contractor, subcontractor, or professional estimator, knowing how to perform a construction takeoff from blueprints is an essential skill. In this complete guide, we’ll cover what a takeoff is, how it fits…
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Why Accurate Takeoffs Can Make or Break Your Bid
Discover the main types of construction estimates and why they matter. Learn how accurate estimating helps contractors win more bids and boost profits.