When it comes to drywall estimation, mechanical chases often fly under the radar—yet they represent one of the most significant hidden labor drivers in commercial construction. Estimators, architects, and general contractors should not overlook the intricate work these spaces require. These confined, utility-dense cavities demand precision framing, specialized board installation, and detailed coordination with other trades. Failing to account for these complexities during the estimate phase can result in blown labor budgets and strained schedules.

Why Mechanical Chases Are Labor-Intensive

Unlike open walls or straightforward room partitions, mechanical chases are framed around ductwork, plumbing, fire protection, and other utility systems. This tight coordination means:

• Irregular framing due to offset duct runs or sloped piping.
• Multiple layers of gypsum board for fire, sound, or thermal protection.
• Increased need for ladders, lifts, or scaffolding in vertical shafts.
• Frequent rework due to late or uncoordinated MEP installations.

How Estimators Miss the Mark

Mechanical chases often appear as generic spaces in 2D drawings, with minimal elevation details. Without thorough field verification or modeled coordination, estimators may apply average square-foot pricing that doesn’t reflect:

• The density of utilities affecting board access and layout.
• Time lost to maneuver around piping, hangers, and equipment.
• The level of finish required, particularly in hospital or lab environments.

That’s where Active Estimating shines—by using harmonized historical data and live production tracking to close the gap between scope and true effort.

Best Practices for Capturing Hidden Labor

1. Elevation and Section Review

Never rely on plan view alone. Study mechanical drawings and ask for vertical sections where available. Estimators should identify every area where chases stack or branch across floors to gauge elevation work complexity.

2. Use Production History

Comparing chase work against real project benchmarks provides insight into what the labor curve truly looks like. A drywall estimating platform that tracks actual versus estimated hours in chase conditions becomes an invaluable forecasting tool.

3. Account for Sequencing Impacts

Chase framing and boarding often come after mechanical rough-in, meaning drywall crews return multiple times. Time for setup and access must be reflected as part of the cost structure, not considered incidental.

Adding Contingency Where Needed

In some fast-track or design-build scenarios, chases may not even be detailed until late in preconstruction. In such cases, a smart estimator doesn’t guess—they include contingencies supported by similar past projects and tie those allowances to real cost data instead of arbitrary percentages.

What Transparency Delivers

Mechanical chases demand not just technical skill, but transparency in estimating logic. Explaining assumptions to stakeholders builds trust and opens the door for constructive value engineering if overruns are identified early. By utilizing a data-centric platform that documents subjective and objective cost drivers, estimators become proactive leaders in risk mitigation—not just number crunchers.

Conclusion

Hidden labor doesn’t need to remain hidden. With the right systems, estimators can quantify the challenge mechanical chases present and price them with clarity. The result? Fewer surprises, stronger bids, and smoother field execution. In today’s market, that’s the kind of value every project team should demand.

Contact Information:
Active Estimating
508 2nd Street, Suite 208
Davis, California 95616
Rich Schoener
richard@activeestimating.com
(877) 546-4275