Calculation methodology
The complete baseline, escalation, and regional adjustment model—shown without black-box scoring.
Two data layers, one visible result
The baseline records hold dated material, labor, permit, and disposal inputs. Monthly index snapshots adjust material and labor direction. A ZIP-derived OEWS wage multiplier then adjusts labor only.
material = baseline rate × quantity × (1 + material index delta)
labor = baseline rate × quantity × (1 + labor index delta) × regional multiplier
subtotal = material + labor + permit + disposal
range = subtotal × explicit low/high multipliers
Publication gate
A calculator is indexable only when its record is reviewed, cited, internally consistent, and uses verified series. Failed refreshes retain the last valid snapshot.
Limitations
Indices track input-cost direction rather than local retail prices. OEWS wages exclude contractor overhead and scarcity. Every result remains a planning estimate.