Sitework estimating is the process of calculating all costs for outdoor construction projects, including earthwork (excavation, grading, and fill dirt), utilities (storm drains and water/sewer lines), paving (roads and parking lots), and landscaping (soil, plants, and irrigation). We provide detailed measurements of materials, labor, and equipment needed so contractors can prepare accurate bids and budgets before starting a project.

Outsourcing your sitework estimating delivers significant cost savings, competitive advantages, and risk reduction. By leveraging our expertise, you gain access to specialized software, industry benchmarks, and faster turnaround times without the overhead of in-house staff. Our accurate estimates (with a ±5% accuracy guarantee) help you bid more competitively, avoid costly errors, and scale operations efficiently—turning estimating from an expense into a strategic advantage for winning more profitable projects.

The key difference lies in scope: Earthwork takeoff focuses exclusively on ground movement—calculating cut/fill volumes, hauling, and grading—while sitework takeoff encompasses all outdoor construction elements including earthwork, utilities, paving, landscaping, and structures. Earthwork is the foundation; sitework is the complete package. For example, a warehouse project needs earthwork takeoff to balance dirt (50,000 CY) and sitework takeoff to price utilities, paving, and fencing—both are essential for accurate budgeting.

Accurate estimates help contractors win more bids by providing competitive pricing, avoid financial losses by preventing unexpected costs (such as soil issues or material shortages), and plan more effectively by ensuring the right resources are allocated. Even small errors can lead to significant losses—for example, a 10% mistake on a $1 million project could cost $100,000. Our precise estimates give contractors the confidence to bid competitively while protecting profit margins.

A 3D takeoff uses digital terrain modeling (DTM) software to create a three-dimensional model of the existing and proposed site surfaces. The software then calculates precise cut and fill volumes directly from the model.

• Pros: Higher accuracy, better visualization, faster for large/complex sites, integrates well with machine control and GPS grading equipment.

• Cons: Slightly higher cost, requires good-quality CAD files (DWG, DXF, or LandXML).

Yes, typically 3D takeoff costs a bit more because it requires specialized software and modeling. However, the investment often pays off by preventing costly errors in the field and providing a clearer understanding of earthwork quantities.