The ProfitDig Blog
Insights, strategies, and news for the modern contractor.
Understanding Equipment Costs in Your Bids
Understanding Equipment Costs in Your Bids When you’re deep into the trenches of a construction job, it’s easy to overlook the costs that come with owning and operating your equipment. But let me tell you, if you’re not factoring those in, you might be digging your own financial grave. Let’s walk through what you need […]
Still Busy, Still Broke: How Contractors Lose Money Even with a Full Schedule
How Can You Be This Busy and Still Struggling? A lot of contractors are slammed right now. Crews are working.Trucks are rolling.The calendar is packed. And yet… the bank account doesn’t feel any better. That’s one of the most frustrating situations in construction – being busy and still broke. Busy Doesn’t Mean Profitable Here’s the […]
10 Construction Job Bidding Tips for New Company Owners
Starting a construction company is exciting, but when it comes to bidding on jobs, things can get tricky fast. It’s not just about throwing a number out there and hoping for the best. You need strategy, preparation, and a bit of street smarts to land the right projects and keep your business profitable. Jeff Spencer […]
Hydro Excavation vs. Traditional Trenching: When to Choose Each on Your Construction Site
Excavation is a critical part of most construction projects, from laying utilities to creating foundations. Choosing the right excavation method can significantly impact the efficiency, safety, and cost of a project. Two popular methods are hydro excavation and traditional trenching. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, making it essential to understand when to use one […]
Why Estimators and Project Managers Must Work Together to Bid Construction Projects
In construction, the success of a project often hinges on effective teamwork, particularly between estimators and project managers. These two roles are crucial to a company’s profitability, and how well they work together can make or break a project. Let’s dive into how estimators and project managers can collaborate to ensure a project’s success and […]
The Very Important Differences Between a Construction Bid and Estimate
In the construction world, terms like “bid” and “estimate” often get tossed around, sometimes interchangeably. But these terms have distinct meanings, and understanding the difference can save both contractors and clients a lot of headaches down the road. In a recent discussion, some seasoned construction pros—Luke Fielder and Jeff Spencer—dove into the nitty-gritty of what […]
Mastering the Art of Estimating and Bidding in Commercial Painting
In the dynamic field of commercial painting, success hinges on the ability to deliver accurate estimates and competitive bids. This comprehensive guide aims to equip industry professionals with the insights and strategies necessary for excelling in various commercial painting projects, managing supplies and equipment effectively, and refining estimation techniques for both material and labor. Understanding […]
Construction Bids: The Differences Between an Invitation to Bid vs Request for Proposal
In the construction industry, two common procurement methods for securing services and goods are the “Invitation to Bid” (ITB) and the “Request for Proposal” (RFP). While both are used to solicit offers from potential contractors or suppliers, they serve distinct purposes and are used in different scenarios. Understanding the nuances between an ITB and an […]
The Crucial Role of Accounting for Overhead Costs in Construction Bidding
In the competitive world of construction, winning bids can make or break a company. The ability to accurately estimate project costs is paramount, and overlooking overhead costs can be a costly mistake. Overhead costs are the hidden expenses that keep a construction company running smoothly, such as office rent, utilities, administrative salaries, and more. In […]