Estimating Footage per Hour: Best Practices and Considerations

[MikePhua]

Introduction
Estimating how much footage can be completed per hour is a key part of managing construction projects effectively. Whether it’s digging, grading, or paving, understanding how much work can be accomplished in a set amount of time helps in budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation. This article discusses how to estimate footage per hour based on various factors and industry insights.
Factors Affecting Footage Per Hour Estimates

1. Type of Work
   • The type of task being completed is one of the most significant factors influencing footage per hour. For example, excavation work will have different estimates compared to paving or grading.
     
   • Different machines and techniques are used for each task, with some being more efficient than others. Excavators, dozers, and graders all have varying speeds based on their capacities and functions.
     
2. Soil and Terrain Conditions
   • Soil type (such as soft dirt, hard clay, or rocky soil) greatly impacts the machine's performance and the time it takes to move material.
     
   • Terrain conditions such as slopes or uneven ground can also slow down equipment, affecting the total footage completed per hour.
     
3. Equipment Used
   • The type and size of the equipment used plays a critical role. A larger machine with more power may complete more footage per hour, but it may also require more fuel and maintenance.
     
   • For example, a large bulldozer might cover more ground faster compared to a smaller skid steer. Additionally, newer equipment with updated technology might operate faster than older machinery.
     
4. Operator Experience
   • An experienced operator can significantly increase productivity by using equipment more efficiently. Conversely, inexperience can result in slower work rates and less efficient machine usage.
     
   • Training and regular practice can improve an operator's skill, enabling them to complete more footage in a shorter time.
     
5. Weather Conditions
   • Weather, such as rain or extreme temperatures, can also impact the equipment’s performance and the speed of operations.
     
   • Rain may turn the ground muddy, making it harder for equipment to maneuver. Similarly, extremely cold or hot temperatures may slow down equipment or cause breakdowns.
     
6. Worksite Conditions
   • The size and layout of the worksite affect how much footage can be completed. A large, open area is easier to cover quickly than a confined area with obstacles.
     
   • The presence of other crews or overlapping tasks can also affect how quickly footage can be completed. Coordination is essential for maximizing efficiency.
     

Calculating Footage Per Hour: A General Approach
To calculate the footage completed per hour, several methods can be used. While each project may require specific adjustments, here are general steps to follow:

1. Define the Task
   • Determine the type of work being done. Whether you’re clearing land, grading, or digging trenches, knowing the task is essential for estimating progress.
     
2. Measure the Work Area
   • Measure the length and width of the area being worked on. This is the total area where the machine will operate.
     
   • Divide the total area by the number of crew members or machines involved.
     
3. Estimate the Average Speed
   • Based on the soil conditions and equipment being used, estimate the average speed of the equipment.
     
   • For instance, a bulldozer may work at a speed of 20 feet per minute on flat, soft soil, but this may slow down on rocky terrain.
     
4. Factor in Downtime
   • Equipment downtime, maintenance breaks, refueling, or operator rest time should also be factored into the total estimate. These factors can reduce the effective footage completed per hour.
     
5. Apply the Estimate
   • Multiply the estimated speed of the equipment by the total time available to determine the footage completed per hour.
     

For example, if a bulldozer moves at 20 feet per minute and works for 60 minutes, the total footage for one hour is 1,200 feet.
Industry Examples of Footage Estimates

1. Excavation Work: In excavation projects, such as digging trenches or foundations, a backhoe or mini excavator may cover about 100 to 200 feet per hour, depending on soil conditions, machine size, and operator skill.
   
2. Grading: For grading work, a bulldozer or grader can typically move between 500 to 2,000 feet per hour, depending on the material being moved and the size of the equipment.
   
3. Paving: When paving roads, an asphalt paver might lay 100 to 300 feet of material per hour. This number can fluctuate depending on the thickness of the asphalt, temperature, and the crew working.
   

How to Improve Footage Estimates

1. Use of Technology
   • Modern GPS systems and machine telematics can help track real-time productivity, allowing contractors to adjust workflows and improve efficiency.
     
2. Refining Time Tracking
   • Recording actual work progress at regular intervals and comparing it to initial estimates will help improve future predictions. Tracking downtime and productivity can give insights into potential improvements in processes.
     
3. Equipment Maintenance
   • Regular maintenance of equipment ensures that machines operate efficiently, reducing breakdowns and costly downtime. Well-maintained equipment can work at optimal speeds, contributing to more footage per hour.
     

Conclusion
Estimating footage per hour is an essential skill in construction and landscaping projects. It helps in managing resources, budgeting, and scheduling. By considering factors such as the type of work, equipment used, weather conditions, and operator skill, it’s possible to make more accurate estimates. Regularly evaluating the efficiency of operations can lead to more effective planning and execution of tasks. With the right tools, experience, and attention to detail, contractors can significantly increase their productivity and complete projects more efficiently.