Utility contractor plug-in, formulas, or templates

Hey Jack,

Here are some examples I was able to make using gemini:

1. Trenching with Concrete Encasements

This is typically a Linear Takeoff. You can create an assembly that calculates excavation volume and concrete volume simultaneously.

Key Formula (Excavation): ([Width] * [Depth] * [Linear]) / 27 (Cubic Yards).

Key Formula (Concrete): (([Encasement Width] * [Encasement Height] - [Pipe Area]) * [Linear]) / 27.

Tip: Add a "Waste Factor" variable (e.g., 1.05 for 5%) to your concrete formula to ensure you don't run short.

2. Slurry Backfill

Slurry is often measured by the cubic yard. You can add this as a "Material Item" inside your trenching assembly.

Formula: ([Trench Width] * [Slurry Depth] * [Linear]) / 27.

Logic: Since slurry is self-leveling, you don't need to account for compaction lifts like you would with soil. Ensure you subtract the volume of the pipe or encasement if the slurry surrounds them.

3. Excavation for Manholes and Vaults

These are best handled as Count Takeoffs with manual height/depth variables.

YouTube

Formula (Rectangular Vault): ([Length] + 2) * ([Width] + 2) * [Depth] / 27. (The "+ 2" accounts for 1 foot of working room on each side).

Formula (Circular Manhole): pi * (([Diameter] / 2) + 1)^2 * [Depth] / 27.

Note: In zzTakeoff, ensure "pi" is written in lowercase within the formula builder.

4. Trench Paving Restoration

This is usually a Linear Takeoff that calculates Square Yardage or Tonnage of asphalt.

Formula (Area): ([Trench Width] + [T-Cut Width]) * [Linear] / 9 (Square Yards).

Formula (Tonnage): ([Area in Sq Ft] * [Thickness in Inches] / 12 * 150 lbs/cf) / 2000.

Resources: Be sure to include items for Saw Cutting (Linear Feet) and Tack Coat (Gallons) in this assembly.

Thank you very much Stephen