Labor Hour Estimator

Overview

Applies the selected project’s baseline productivity with difficulty, access, demolition, and haul-off adjustments to produce a labor-hour range.

Assumptions

• Project size uses square feet except drain trenches, which use linear feet.
• The productivity factors are planning assumptions, not measured production rates.

Worked example

If a project’s adjusted typical estimate is 24 labor hours with a 3-person crew, calendar time is 24 ÷ (8 × 3) = 1 day.

Common mistakes

• Confusing labor hours with elapsed crew hours.
• Ignoring mobilization, inspections, weather, or curing time.

Limitations

It cannot schedule a crew, price labor, or assess site-specific hazards.

Safety and local requirements

Plan safe work methods, equipment training, and utility locating; permits and inspections may affect the schedule.

Sources

• OSHA — Landscaping and Horticulture