Mechanical & HVAC
Estimating Services
HVAC is one of the most costly systems in a building. It also has the most moving parts: equipment, ductwork, piping, controls, and startup. Each part is priced differently, so a mechanical bid needs a clear breakdown.
Estimexa prepares mechanical and HVAC estimates for contractors across the USA. We work from your mechanical drawings and equipment schedules. Every duct run, fitting, unit and pipe is measured and priced.
The result is a bid-ready estimate. You can check it against supplier quotes, adjust your labor, and submit with confidence.
What Is Mechanical & HVAC Estimating?
It is the process of calculating the cost to install heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. An estimator reviews the mechanical plans, measures the ductwork and piping, and counts every piece of equipment. Material and labor costs are then added to each item to reach the total price.
What Does an HVAC Estimate Include?
Equipment
Rooftop units, air handlers, furnaces, split systems, VAV boxes, exhaust fans, and heat pumps. Each unit is taken from your equipment schedule, with model sizes and capacities.
Ductwork
Supply, return, and exhaust ducts. Sheet metal ducts are priced by weight, based on size and gauge. Fittings, dampers and hangers are counted separately.
Air Distribution
Diffusers, registers and grilles, counted by type and size.
Piping
Refrigerant lines, condensate drains, and hydronic piping for chilled and hot water systems. Pipe is measured by size and length, with valves and fittings included.
Insulation
Duct wrap, duct liner, and pipe insulation, measured by area or length.
Controls and Startup
Thermostats, control wiring, testing and balancing, where shown in your plans or specs.
How Is HVAC Ductwork Estimated?
Ductwork is usually priced by the pound, not by the foot. We measure each duct run from your drawings in Bluebeam or PlanSwift. Then we convert the sizes into sheet metal weight using standard gauge tables. Fabrication, installation labor, and fittings are added to get the final duct cost.
This method matches how most sheet metal contractors and fabricators price their work, so you can easily compare our numbers with your shop’s numbers.
Where Our Pricing Comes From
Material and labor costs are based on RSMeans data, adjusted for your project location. If you have your own supplier prices or labor rates, send them to us, and we’ll use those instead.
Projects We Estimate
- Homes and apartment buildings
- Offices and retail stores
- Restaurants and commercial kitchens
- Schools and healthcare facilities
- Warehouses and industrial buildings
- HVAC replacements and system upgrades
Why Mechanical Contractors Work With Us
- Equipment and installation shown separately. You see what the units cost and what it costs to set them.
- Duct weight included. Useful when you’re comparing with your fabrication shop.
- Your rates, if you want them. We can price with your supplier and labor costs.
- Next-day delivery on most projects. Larger jobs get a set date with your quote.
- Free updates. Revised drawings and addenda are included at no charge.
- Pay per job. No contract or subscription.
See What You’ll Receive
Before you send your plans, you can review a sample estimate to see the format, the level of detail and how costs are broken down.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to install an HVAC system in a commercial building?
It depends on the building size, system type, and local labor rates. A detailed estimate from your mechanical drawings is the best way to get an accurate number for your project.
What drawings do you need for an HVAC estimate?
Mechanical floor plans, the equipment schedule, and the specs. Details and riser diagrams help if the project has hydronic piping.
Do you estimate both residential and commercial HVAC?
Yes. We estimate single-family homes, multi-family buildings, and commercial and industrial projects
Can I use my own material prices?
Yes. Send your supplier pricing, and we’ll apply it to the estimate.