Construction Time Calculator

Understanding Project Timeline

Accurate time estimation is crucial for project success and resource optimization.

  • Project Phases Planning (10-15% of total time), Foundation (15-20%), Structure (30-35%), MEP (20-25%), Finishing (20-25%). Critical path activities determine overall duration.
  • Resource Allocation Labor productivity rates: Concrete (20-25 yd³/day), Steel (1.5-2 tons/day), Masonry (400-500 ft²/day). Crew size optimization affects timeline by ±20%.
  • Weather Impact Seasonal adjustments: Winter (-15-20% productivity), Rain (2-3 days/month delay), Extreme heat (-10-15% productivity). Include weather contingency of 5-10%.
  • Dependencies Lead times: Steel fabrication (6-8 weeks), Custom materials (8-12 weeks), Permits (4-6 weeks). Sequential vs. parallel activities can impact duration by 25-40%.
  • Project Complexity Simple: 1.0x base duration, Moderate: 1.3-1.5x, Complex: 1.8-2.2x. Height factor: +5% per story above 4 stories.

Planning Considerations

Milestones & Scheduling

  • Foundation completion: 20-25% time
  • Structure top-out: 45-50% time
  • Building dry-in: 60-65% time
  • MEP rough-in: 70-75% time
  • Interior finishes: 85-90% time

Buffer Time Allocation

  • Design changes: 5-10%
  • Material delays: 3-7%
  • Inspection holds: 2-4%
  • Coordination: 3-5%
  • Testing/Commissioning: 2-3%

Resource Optimization

  • Skilled labor: 3-4 workers/1000ft²
  • Equipment utilization: 75-85%
  • Material staging: 2-3 days stock
  • Supervision ratio: 1:8-12 workers

Regulatory Compliance

  • Permit review: 30-45 days
  • Inspections: 24-48 hr notice
  • Certificate of Occupancy: 2-3 weeks
  • Environmental clearance: 4-6 weeks

Productivity Factors

  • Work Schedule Impact 5-day week (baseline), 6-day week (+15% progress, -5% efficiency), 7-day week (+25% progress, -15% efficiency). Overtime effectiveness decreases 10-15% after 4 weeks.
  • Site Conditions Access limitations (-5-10%), Urban location (-10-15%), Multiple trade stacking (-8-12%), Site congestion (-7-10%). Optimal workspace per crew: 400-600 ft².
  • Quality Requirements Standard (1.0x), Premium (1.2-1.4x), Luxury (1.5-1.8x). Additional QA/QC procedures add 5-8% to timeline.