Even decades after its first publication, the principles within "Simplified Construction Estimate" remain highly relevant. The fundamental science of material take-offs does not change, even as construction methods evolve. For this reason, the book is still cited as a primary reference in engineering course syllabi and academic reaction papers, solidifying its status as a foundational text. Its enduring relevance has even led to the creation of modern digital tools inspired by its principles. Some contractors and engineers have developed Excel-based construction estimators that are explicitly based on the 2000 edition of "Simplified Construction Estimate" by Max B. Fajardo, bridging the gap between traditional methodology and modern digital workflows.
Each chapter follows a clear pattern: → Description of material → Common formulas (e.g., number of CHB = Area × 12.5) → Sample problems with solutions → Worksheets for practice
If you are a student: Buy the book. It will help you pass your boards. If you are a contractor: Keep a PDF on your tablet for quick reference on site, but own the physical copy for your office. If you are a homeowner: Attempting to use this book will save you from being overcharged by local contractors by 30-40%.
Unlike international estimating books (e.g., RS Means), Fajardo’s work is tailored to local construction materials (e.g., CHB, plyform, nipa huts, concrete hollow blocks, local steel bars) and Philippine labor/productivity rates .
For students struggling with tuition, finding a legitimate or educational copy of the PDF allows them to study without waiting for a library hold. (Note: Always support the author if you can buy the original, but the PDF is essential for accessibility).
Modern PDF readers allow you to highlight formulas, add sticky notes with current price updates (since Fajardo’s prices are outdated, but his formulas are timeless), and bookmark critical tables.
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Tips to speed up estimating
| | Recommendation | |----------|--------------------| | Civil Engineering / Architecture students (PH) | ✅ Highly recommended – core textbook | | Board exam reviewees (CE, AR, ME) | ✅ Must-review – standard reference | | Small contractors / foremen | ✅ Great – simple, field-ready | | Quantity surveyors in large firms | ⚠️ Supplement only – needs cost updates | | International users (outside PH) | ❌ Not applicable – local codes/materials differ |
This section is extensive, covering:
is a foundational reference for civil engineers, architects, and contractors, particularly in the Philippines. It provides systematic methods for calculating material quantities and costs without requiring complex software. Key Concepts and Methodology
The book's "simplified" approach relies heavily on that provide multipliers, material quantities per square meter, and other pre-calculated data. This allows a professional to quickly perform an estimate by looking up the relevant value without performing complex calculations from scratch for every project.
