Patricia Howard
Senior Estimator | CPE | 18+ Years Experience
Patricia has led estimation teams for Clark Construction and Whiting-Turner. As a Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), she focuses on ensuring every guide and article provides verifiable and actionable cost logic.
Her reviewer’s eye ensures technical soundness, scope accuracy, and real-world application for both small and large contractors.
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Basic Swimming Pool Building Cost: A Complete Breakdown for 2025
Discover the real cost of building a basic swimming pool in 2025. Compare concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl pool prices with labor, region, and add-on factors.
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Construction Takeoff Guide for Beginners (2025 Step-by-Step Cost Estimating)
Learn how to create accurate construction takeoffs in 2025 with step-by-step material, labor, and equipment estimating for residential and commercial projects. Beginner-friendly guide included.
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Cost to Build a Deck Per Square Foot (2025 Pricing Guide & Calculator)
Get the 2025 cost to build a deck per square foot, including pricing for wood, composite, PVC, labor, railings, and popular sizes like 12×16 and 16×20 with accurate cost estimates.
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What Does a Construction Estimator Do (Salary + Skills)
Learn what a construction estimator does, essential skills, daily responsibilities, salary ranges in the U.S., and how to start a high-paying career in construction estimating in 2025.
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Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown: 2025 Edition
Discover the full kitchen remodel cost breakdown for 2025. Learn how much cabinets, countertops, appliances, labor, and extras really cost, and plan your remodel budget effectively.
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Estimating Software Tutorials: PlanSwift, Bluebeam, and More
Master construction estimating with detailed tutorials for top software tools like PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, and more. Step-by-step instructions, tips, and expert guidance for accurate digital takeoffs in 2025.
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Future of AI in Construction: Predictions for 2030
Explore how artificial intelligence will reshape the construction industry by 2030. Discover key predictions about automation, robotics, digital twins, and AI-driven project management shaping the future of building and estimating.
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How Weather Conditions Influence Construction Estimates
Learn how weather conditions affect construction estimating accuracy, project timelines, and labor costs. Understand regional climate risks and practical strategies to adjust your estimates.
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Automation and Robotics in Construction: Building Smarter, Faster, and Safer by 2040
By 2040, automation and robotics will redefine construction. Explore how smart machines, drones, and AI-driven systems will revolutionize speed, safety, and project efficiency.
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Hidden Costs Most Estimators Miss in Building Renovation Projects
Discover the hidden costs most estimators miss in building renovation projects. Learn how to identify, anticipate, and manage unexpected expenses to protect your construction budget.
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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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How to Integrate AI Estimating Tools into Your Workflow
Learn how to integrate AI estimating tools into your construction workflow. Step-by-step guide to streamline processes, improve accuracy, and boost productivity without disrupting your existing system.
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Energy-Efficient Buildings — The Future of Sustainable Construction
Discover why energy-efficient buildings are shaping the future of sustainable construction in the U.S. Learn about their design principles, benefits, cost factors, and real-world impact on energy consumption and construction practices.
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South (Variable but Growing) — Why Construction Costs Are Variable in This Region
The U.S. South is experiencing rapid construction growth, yet costs remain highly variable. Discover why diverse economies, shifting population trends, climate factors, and labor availability drive fluctuating construction costs across the southern states.
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STACK Estimating Software Guide: Simplifying Takeoffs and Winning More Bids in 2025
Discover how STACK Estimating Software streamlines digital takeoffs, boosts accuracy, and enhances team collaboration. Learn why it’s one of the top estimating tools helping contractors win more bids in 2025.
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Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): How It Impacts Construction Estimating in 2025
Discover how the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is reshaping construction estimating in 2025. Learn how tax incentives, sustainability goals, and domestic sourcing affect project costs and bid strategies.
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Permitting and Regulations: How Compliance Shapes Accurate Construction Estimates
Learn how permitting and regulations impact construction estimating in the U.S. Discover permit types, regional differences, and cost-control strategies to create accurate, compliant estimates and win more bids.
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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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Top Construction Estimating Software Tools for 2025 (With Comparison Tables)
Discover the best construction estimating software tools of 2025. Compare top platforms like ProEst, STACK, Bluebeam, and HeavyBid to boost accuracy, speed up takeoffs, and win more bids in today’s competitive U.S. construction market.
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How to Win More Bids in 2025
Learn expert strategies for accurate electrical estimating in 2025. Win more bids, cut costs, and boost profits with smart estimating techniques.
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Top Tools and Software for Construction Estimating in 2025
Explore the best construction estimating software in 2025. Compare tools like ProEst, STACK, and Planswift to boost accuracy and win more bids.