#Unit Cost Estimation

[asestimationsconsultants]

How Commercial Estimators Accurately Determine Project Costs

Accurately determining project costs is one of the most crucial responsibilities of a commercial estimator. In construction, the success of a project—whether it’s a large office building, a shopping mall, or an industrial facility—depends heavily on how well the costs are predicted before work begins. An estimator must account for a wide range of variables, including materials, labor, equipment, permits, and unforeseen challenges. This complex task requires a combination of technical knowledge, experience, and the right tools to ensure accuracy. In this blog, we’ll explore how commercial estimators accurately determine project costs and the key factors they consider during the estimating process.

1. Understanding the Scope of the Project

Before any costs can be estimated, a commercial estimator must first have a thorough understanding of the project scope. This means reviewing detailed architectural plans, drawings, and specifications that define the scope of work. It’s essential for the estimator to identify and comprehend every element of the project, including building dimensions, materials, design features, and site-specific requirements.

Estimators often meet with project owners, architects, and contractors to clarify any ambiguities in the plans. Misunderstanding or overlooking certain aspects of the project can lead to underestimation, which can be detrimental to a project’s budget. Therefore, it is critical for estimators to engage in careful discussions with all stakeholders to ensure they have all necessary information.

2. Performing a Detailed Takeoff

A critical part of determining project costs involves the takeoff process. Takeoff refers to the act of measuring quantities from the project plans, which could include the number of square feet, linear feet, or cubic yards of materials required. A takeoff essentially helps estimators calculate the quantity of each material needed for the project.

For instance, if a building requires concrete for its foundation, the estimator will determine how many cubic yards of concrete are needed based on the foundation’s dimensions. This process extends to every aspect of the construction, from the amount of steel for framing to the number of windows to be installed. Accurate takeoff is vital because it serves as the basis for all further cost estimations.

3. Material Cost Estimation

Once quantities have been determined through the takeoff, the next step is estimating the cost of materials. This is often one of the most challenging parts of commercial estimating due to the fluctuating prices of materials. Factors such as location, time of year, and market conditions can impact material costs.

Commercial estimators need to stay up to date with material prices and ensure they use accurate pricing data for every component of the project. They may consult industry databases, supplier quotes, or historical data to determine the current price of materials like steel, concrete, drywall, and roofing materials. Additionally, the estimator must consider delivery costs, potential material wastage, and storage requirements.

4. Labor Cost Estimation

Labor costs are another major factor in determining the total cost of a construction project. Estimators must calculate the amount of labor needed for each phase of the project, taking into account factors such as crew size, hourly rates, and the expected time required to complete tasks.

Labor rates can vary depending on the type of work being done, the region, and union regulations, so estimators need to ensure they account for all these variables. Additionally, they must consider factors such as overtime, the skill level of workers, and productivity rates, as they can influence overall labor costs.

Estimators may consult labor union agreements, wage surveys, or historical project data to accurately estimate the labor costs for specific tasks. Proper labor cost estimation also involves factoring in potential labor shortages or delays, which can increase costs.

5. Equipment and Tool Costs

Construction projects also require a variety of tools and equipment, ranging from cranes and bulldozers to hand tools and scaffolding. Estimators need to calculate the cost of renting or purchasing this equipment, including transportation and maintenance costs.

In some cases, estimators may need to account for equipment downtime or the wear and tear of machinery. For larger projects, specialized equipment may be needed, and estimating these costs can become more complex.

If a project requires equipment that is not readily available, the estimator may need to include additional costs for mobilization and demobilization. These costs can have a significant impact on the overall budget, especially for long-term projects.

6. Contingencies for Unforeseen Costs

No project is free from unexpected challenges or changes. A key aspect of accurate commercial estimating is accounting for these uncertainties with contingency plans. Estimators typically include a contingency percentage—often ranging from 5% to 15%—to account for unforeseen circumstances that could arise during construction.

These contingencies can cover a wide range of issues, from delays caused by weather to price fluctuations in materials or labor. Estimators must ensure that they don’t underestimate these risks, as failing to include sufficient contingencies could lead to project cost overruns.

7. Using Estimating Software and Tools

Modern commercial estimating relies heavily on specialized estimating software and tools to enhance accuracy and efficiency. Estimating software like ProEst, Buildertrend, or Procore allows estimators to input quantities, prices, and project data, and generate detailed cost breakdowns.

These tools streamline the process by automating calculations, helping to avoid human error. They can also access databases with up-to-date material costs, labor rates, and other relevant data, ensuring that the estimator has accurate pricing information. Many of these platforms also integrate with project management software, allowing for real-time updates and collaboration among all project stakeholders.

8. Accounting for Overhead and Profit Margins

Another important aspect of commercial estimating is ensuring that overhead costs and profit margins are incorporated into the estimate. Overhead costs can include things like administrative expenses, insurance, office supplies, and project management costs. These costs must be factored into the overall project estimate to ensure that the construction company remains profitable.

Similarly, estimators must add a reasonable profit margin to the estimate. This margin varies based on the type of project, the level of competition, and market conditions. Adding an appropriate profit margin ensures that the contractor can meet their financial goals while still providing a competitive bid.

9. Bid Preparation and Review

Once all costs are estimated, the final step is preparing the bid. A commercial estimator will create a detailed, organized proposal that includes a breakdown of all costs, including labor, materials, equipment, overhead, and contingencies. This bid is presented to the client for review and negotiation.

During this phase, the estimator may also need to review the bid with other team members or stakeholders to ensure that it aligns with the project’s budget and scope. Adjustments may be made if necessary, particularly if changes arise during the negotiation phase.

Conclusion

Accurately determining project costs is a complex process that requires attention to detail, industry knowledge, and the right tools. Commercial estimators must consider numerous factors, from material and labor costs to contingencies for unforeseen events. By performing a detailed takeoff, staying up to date with pricing data, and utilizing advanced estimating software, estimators can provide accurate, reliable estimates that help ensure the success of construction projects. This precise and thorough approach ultimately helps clients and contractors manage costs, avoid overruns, and complete projects on time and within budget.

[ayameq0]

During the displacement period, my husband fell ill due to the difficult living conditions in the camp, malnutrition, and the closure of the crossings. This led to the unavailability of necessary medications, which led to the deterioration of his health and his transfer to the hospital for treatment. My husband requires extensive medication and proper nutrition, and he needs urgent surgery for fear of his health deteriorating. The cost of the operation is estimated at $350. Please help me save my husband so that my family can be complete. He is my support in this life.

[reasonsforhope]

"Tilia is a vest-wearing conservation dog that the 444-acre [Mequon] nature preserve relies on for vital conservation and restoration work.

The dog’s responsibilities include sniffing out invasive and endangered species in the prairies, forests, and wetlands of Mequon.

Conservation dogs have become more commonplace in wildlife organizations, tapping into their astonishing scent-detecting abilities.

“Dogs in general already have up to 200 million olfactory sensors,” Cory Gritzmacher, the director of operations at the nature preserve, told Wisconsin Life.

Humans, on the other hand, have about 5 million.

“[Dogs are] already set up and designed for scent detection,” Gritzmacher added. “It’s really just finding a dog that’s motivated, that wants to do it on a regular basis and is excited to do it.”

Tilia was the pup for the job.

One of her main roles is to detect wild parsnip, an invasive species that staff removes once it is found on the property.

Compared to humans, Tilia can find parsnip in its first year, while it’s still close to the ground and camouflaged by other plants. This is vital, since parsnip will start to spread rapidly by the time it reaches its second season in the preserve. 

Studies show that the estimated damage caused by invasive species has cost the United States around $120 billion annually, as it impacts agriculture, recreational industries, and wildlife management. 

By catching invasive species that take hold of local flora and fauna early, Tilia achieves something no humans can.

“The best trained volunteers or staff in the world won’t even be able to find what a canine can,” Gritzmacher said. “That’s the pretty impressive part of it. And who doesn’t want to go to work with a dog?” ...

Tilia began training as a puppy, and now nearly seven years old, she’s a pro at scent detection — which all started with some treats hidden in cardboard boxes...

“As she continues to hit on the correct scent, then she gets rewarded. So, she’s going to get paid again. We do our work, we get paid. She does her work, she gets paid.”

Tilia can also spot Blue-Spotted and Easter Tiger Salamanders, which are endangered in the area. Her other scents include Wood Turtle and Garlic Mustard.

Of course, her workload remains balanced with time off. Her official owner is the director of Mequon Nature Preserve, who is happy to embrace her as the family dog when she’s not out sniffing.

But Gritzmacher, who trains and works alongside Tilia, adores her, not only for her companionship, but for the miracles she is able to work as an asset to Wisconsin’s conservationists.

“Canines are going to start to play a huge role in the conservation field just because of their amazing detection skills,” Gritzmacher said, “especially when resources are limited, staff is limited and you have to search potentially thousands of acres or miles.”

In fact, Tilia was joined by a partner in crime a few years ago: Timber, another chocolate lab who is actually the offspring of Tilia’s sister.

By following in her pawprints, Timber’s “powerful nose will be a key tool” in the preserve’s “land restoration efforts,” according to its website.

“For years, scientists have tried to replicate the power and efficiency of the canine nose,” Mequon Nature Preserve adds on a webpage for Tilia and Timber.

“The results keep coming back the same: The canine nose is second to none. Coupled with an insatiable desire to work and serve, Tilia and Timber help us find things humans often can’t.”"

-via GoodGoodGood, December 2, 2024

[pejasurveying1]

In the field of construction and development, quantity surveying plays a pivotal role in ensuring projects are completed within budget and to the desired standards. A critical aspect of quantity surveying is cost estimation, a process that requires a blend of technical knowledge, experience, and the application of various methodologies. This article explores the key techniques used in cost estimation by quantity surveyors in the UK, a region known for its dynamic construction industry.

[topnotchservices]

How to Calculate the Unit Weight of Steel Bars

Builders use steel bars to construct residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Different steel bars have different diameters and weights. Before you start working with them, it is mandatory to calculate the weight of steel bars. It is crucial for creating the bar bending schedule. But how to calculate the unit weight of steel bars?  

This blog post will uncover how to calculate it and why it is essential in the construction industry. 

Method 1 to Determine Unit Weight of Steel Bars

The first step of construction should be budget estimation. After that, the next step should be to calculate the unit weight of the steel bars. 

Professionals estimate the budget for steel considering the following facts:

100 meters 20 mm ø bar

100 feet 16mm ø bar

 ø=Diameter of Steel Bar 

Why Is It Necessary to Measure the Weight of Steel Bars When We Have This Method?

Suppliers who deal in steel bars cannot understand the notation given above. They measure steel bars in weight. Therefore, measuring the steel bars' weight after steel bars cost estimation is essential.  Additionally, it is also essential for contractors to order steel bars in the following units:

Kg

Quintal

Ton

Formula to Determine Steel Weight

Steel Bar Weight Formula= W = D²L/162

In formula 

W = Weight of steel bars.

D = Diameter of steel bars in mm.

L = Length of bars in meters.

Let’s take an example!

A steel bar is 60 meters long and 12 mm in diameter. Calculate its weight. 

Data:

D = 12 mm.

L= 60 m.

Formula: 

W = D²L/162

Solution:

W = 12² x 60/162  

W= 53 kg

Result:

The 60m long and 12mm diameter steel bar weighs 53 kg.

Unit Weight of Steel Bars Calculation

To get the steel bar unit weight, put a 1-meter length for each diameter of the steel bar in the same formula. 

6 mm ø bar = 6² x 1/162 = 0.222 kg/m

8 mm ø bar = 8² x 1/162 = 0.395 kg/m

10mm ø bar = 10² x 1/162 = 0.617 kg/m

12mm ø bar = 12² x 1/162 = 0.888 kg/m

16mm ø bar = 16² x 1/162 = 1.580 kg/m

20mm ø bar = 20² x 1/162 = 2.469 kg/m

Total Weight of Steel Bars Calculation

To get the total weight of steel bars, multiply the length of bars by the unit weight determined using the above technique. 

For Instance

The steel bar is 1000m long and has a diameter of 20mm. Its total weight will be calculated as follows:

1000 x 2.469 = 2469 kg.

Using the same method, you can find the unit weight of different steel bars. 

Calculate the Steel Bars' Unit Weight in Feet

Before that, we calculate the unit weight in the meter. But you can also calculate it in feet. 

The formula to find the steel bar unit weight in feet is:

W= D²L/533

In formula:

D = Diameter of bars in mm.

L = Length of bars in foot.

Method 2 to Determine Unit Weight of Flat Steel Bars

You have already understood that, first, budget estimators make a takeoff sheet and estimate the steel bars for a particular construction project. Next, the unit weight of the steel bar is determined. And after that, experts calculate the total weight of steel bars. 

Calculate the Unit Weight of the Steel Flat Bar

Suppose the density of mild steel is 7850 kg/m3. Moreover, experts measure the length and width of mild flat steel in millimeters. 

In this case, the formula to find steel bar weight is:

Weight of steel bar = Volume of steel Bar x Density of steel

And 

Weight of steel Flat bar = (Length x width x thickness) x 7850

Now Take an Example

An MS steel flat bar is 40mm wide and 20mm thick. Find its unit weight. 

Data:

Width= 40mm

Thickness= 20mm

Formula: 

Weight of steel bar = Volume of steel Bar x Density of steel

Weight of steel bar = (Length x width x thickness) x 7850

Solution:

Unit Weight of steel bar = (1 x .040 x .020) x 7850

Unit Weight of steel bar = 6.28kg/m

Result: 

The 40mm wide and 20 mm thick flat steel bar unit weight is 6.28kg/m. 

Calculate the Unit Weight of Steel Rods

Now, take the density of the steel rod as 7850 kg/m3. In this case, measurements are taken using diameter in millimeters. 

The suitable formula for this case is:

Weight of steel bar = Volume of steel Bar x Density of steel

And 

Weight of steel rod = (Cross-sectional area of steel rod x Length) x 7850 kg/m3

Put Values:

Weight of steel rod = (3.14 x (D2 /4) x L) x 7850 kg/m3

Weight of steel rod = (D2 x 6162.25L)/1000000

Weight of steel rod= D2L x 0.006162 = D2L / 162.28

For Results in Meter:

Weight of Steel Bar  = [ D2L / 162.28] 

For Results in Feet:

Weight of Steel Bar = [ D2L / 533] 

Now, if you want to determine the unit weight, L, the length of the steel rod becomes unity. 

Let’s Take Another Example

The diameter of steel bars is 10mm and 12mm. Calculate the unit weight. 

Data: 

Diameter = 10mm

Diameter = 12mm 

Formula: 

Weight of Steel Bar  = [D2L / 162.28]

Solution:

Unit weight of 10mm dia bar = (10x10x1)/162.28 

Unit weight of 10mm dia bar = 0.616kg

Unit weight of 12mm dia bar = (12x12x1)/162.28 

Unit weight of 12mm dia bar = 0.8874kg

Final Words

In this blog, we found that there is no fixed method to calculate the unit weight of steel bars. It totally depends on the cross-sectional area of rods and bars. Therefore, it is essential to get assistance from experts in the industry to get accurate calculations. 

[cashezsvenningsenrkdjx]

A Little Intuition/Is Argentina's "Chainsaw Revolution" applicable to the United States? \Li Lingxiu

At a political rally held in the suburbs of Washington on Thursday, Argentine President Milley presented Musk, the leader of the Department of U.S. Government Efficiency (DOGE), with a "signature" chainsaw, symbolizing the inheritance of the "chainsaw revolution". But can the United States afford the economic price Argentina has paid for it?

Since the establishment of DOGE, several federal government departments have been purged. Musk and his leadership team first gained access to the Treasury Department's computer system, and then DOGE staff entered the International Development Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Ministry of Education and other departments to conduct investigations. At the aforementioned Conservative Political Action Conference, Musk also predicted that the Federal Reserve will be the next target.

The White House has provided a "buyout plan" to 2 million federal government employees, which will provide about 8 months of salary compensation to all employees who voluntarily resign. As of February 18, a total of about 20,000 federal employees (including probationary employees) have been laid off or forced to stop work and take leave.

Such a swift and vigorous layoff storm easily reminds people of the "chainsaw revolution" promoted by Mile in Argentina. As early as the last round of elections in the country, the image of Mile holding a chainsaw high has become a classic image of campaign propaganda. At the beginning of his term, he signed a presidential decree to reduce government departments from 18 to 9 and fired more than 30,000 government employees. The Argentine government also successfully cut public spending by 30% through measures such as cutting energy and transportation subsidies, achieving a fiscal surplus for the first time in 14 years.

But compared with the political environment of the two countries, there are actually great differences. The Argentine president has absolute power over the government's organizational structure and departmental settings, and the abolition of government departments belongs to the category of administrative affairs management and adjustment. But for the US president, if there is no clear authorization from Congress through relevant laws, government departments cannot be adjusted or abolished (except for agencies established by presidential decrees).

Expenditure reduction plan difficult to achieve

Musk's previous slogan was to cut federal spending by $1 trillion. But in the officially released White House documents, Trump did not propose KPIs in this regard. As of February 17, DOGE has saved an estimated $55 billion through contract and lease renegotiations, cancellation of grants, asset sales, layoffs, regulatory savings and fraud detection, completing only 4% of Musk's goal.

Data shows that the total expenditure of the US federal government in fiscal year 2024 is $6.8 trillion, and the largest sources come from three aspects: Social Security ($1.46 trillion), Medicare ($0.87 trillion), and Medicaid ($0.91 trillion), accounting for a total of 49%. However, cutting the above expenditures will shake the interests of voters, and Trump also made it clear during his campaign last year that he would not cut spending on these three projects. In this way, DOGE's spending reduction target seems to be a task that can never be completed.

More importantly, the cost of Argentina's "chainsaw revolution" is painful. In the first six months after Milley took office, the country's poverty rate jumped from about 40% to 53%. Although it fell back by the end of last year, the unemployment rate climbed from 12% in 2023 to 15%.

House prices in Washington, DC plummet

There are also some bad trends in the United States at the moment. Data shows that the number of initial unemployment claims in Washington, DC has risen significantly in the past two weeks. Real estate prices in the region have also begun to fall. The median price of a house in Washington, DC in January 2025 is $553,000, a sharp drop of 9.7% year-on-year.

Argentina is still the largest borrower from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with outstanding loans of $43.4 billion, accounting for nearly 30% of total credit, exceeding the total of all sub-Saharan African countries. (See accompanying picture)

If Musk insists on carrying out the "chainsaw revolution" to the end. Then, poverty will replace inflation and become the hottest topic in American society in the future.

[argumate]

some estimates are that it would cost $20 billion to end homelessness in the United States which naturally raises questions of why a billionaire hasn't just done it, like maybe it's harder than that in practice, maybe they're just greedy and don't want to, etc. etc.

however MacKenzie Scott has donated over $19 billion to various charities so far (legit charities I believe, not the "name a museum wing after me" kind of charities) across the fields of "Education, Equity & Justice, Economic Security & Opportunity, and Health" so maybe take it up with her?

because it seems like there are two possible stories here:

by making massive donations you can have a transformative effect on society and nobody notices

or:

you can make massive donations with no observable effect

[asestimationsconsultants]

How Construction Material Costs Influence Commercial Estimating

In commercial construction, material costs are one of the most significant factors that directly impact the overall project budget. These costs can fluctuate based on a variety of factors, making it essential for estimators to keep a close eye on current pricing trends, supply chain issues, and market conditions. Understanding how construction material costs influence commercial estimating is crucial for delivering accurate bids, maintaining profitability, and managing project timelines.

This blog explores how construction material costs impact commercial estimating, and the strategies that estimators can use to account for material costs in their pricing process.

1. Material Cost as a Major Project Expense

In commercial construction, materials often represent the largest portion of the overall budget. Depending on the type of project, material costs can account for anywhere from 40% to 60% of the total project cost. Materials like steel, concrete, lumber, glass, and specialized finishes make up the physical structure of the building, and any changes in their prices can significantly alter the cost of construction.

Why Material Costs Are So Important:

Impact on Profit Margins: Since materials make up a substantial portion of the budget, any rise in material prices can dramatically affect profit margins. Estimators need to ensure that their material cost estimates are as accurate as possible to avoid underpricing the project.

Impact on Cash Flow: Delays or unforeseen changes in material costs can affect a contractor’s cash flow. An unexpected increase in material prices could delay payments or force contractors to adjust their payment schedules.

Estimating material costs accurately is essential to creating a realistic budget and ensuring that a project stays within its financial constraints.

2. Volatile Material Prices and Their Effect on Estimating

The construction materials market is often volatile, with prices subject to change based on several factors such as demand, supply shortages, geopolitical issues, and natural disasters. Fluctuations in material prices, like spikes in the cost of steel, lumber, or fuel, can impact construction projects significantly.

Key Influencing Factors:

Supply Chain Disruptions: Global supply chain disruptions, such as those caused by pandemics or geopolitical tensions, can lead to material shortages and higher prices.

Seasonal Variability: Material prices can vary seasonally. For instance, materials like concrete and asphalt are often more expensive during peak construction seasons, while prices may drop during the off-season.

Economic Factors: Inflation, interest rates, and currency fluctuations can have a ripple effect on material costs, especially for materials that are imported.

Given the unpredictability of material prices, commercial estimators must not only base their estimates on the current market rates but also anticipate possible future increases or delays in the supply chain.

3. Material Quantity and Type Impacting Estimates

Beyond price fluctuations, the type and quantity of materials required for a project are crucial elements in commercial estimating. Different projects require varying amounts of materials, and the choice of materials can drastically affect both the cost and scope of a project.

Key Activities:

Material Selection: The type of materials selected can impact the overall cost. For example, using high-end materials like marble, specialty glass, or eco-friendly materials will increase the cost of the project compared to more common materials like concrete or steel. Commercial estimators must factor in material choices when estimating costs.

Quantity of Materials: The amount of materials required is a direct result of the project’s size and design. For example, a high-rise office building will require significantly more steel and concrete than a single-story commercial space. Estimators must ensure they accurately account for the quantities of each material needed based on detailed takeoff measurements and building plans.

Waste Factor: It’s common to account for material waste, especially with materials like concrete, drywall, and steel. Waste can occur due to cutting, errors in installation, or defects in materials. Estimators typically add a waste factor of 5-10% to the material quantities to cover these losses.

Choosing the right materials and accurately estimating their quantities helps ensure the accuracy of the overall cost estimate.

4. Using Technology to Monitor Material Costs

Given the volatility of material prices, technology plays a crucial role in helping estimators track, predict, and adjust for material costs. Modern estimating software can provide up-to-date pricing information and offer more accurate cost forecasting.

Technological Solutions Include:

Estimating Software: Tools like ProEst, PlanSwift, and Sage Estimating are equipped with features that allow estimators to track material costs in real-time and adjust estimates based on updated pricing data.

Material Databases: Some estimating software integrates material cost databases that automatically adjust material prices based on current market conditions. This helps estimators save time and ensures the inclusion of accurate material costs in their estimates.

Building Information Modeling (BIM): BIM tools allow for a more detailed and visual estimation process. These tools create 3D models of a project, which can help estimators identify materials more accurately and calculate precise quantities, reducing errors and increasing the accuracy of the estimate.

By leveraging technology, commercial estimators can stay ahead of fluctuating material prices and refine their cost estimates based on real-time data.

5. Material Cost Adjustments for Project Phases

Material costs can change over the course of a project. This is especially true in long-term commercial projects where material prices might change between the time the estimate is created and when the project is completed.

Key Adjustments:

Escalation Clauses: In some contracts, an escalation clause is added to allow for changes in material costs over the duration of a project. This clause allows contractors to adjust prices if material costs increase significantly during the project, ensuring that they’re not financially harmed by market fluctuations.

Phase-by-Phase Costing: In larger projects, materials are procured in phases. This means estimators must calculate costs for each phase of the project, factoring in potential increases in material prices over time. For example, the price of structural steel might increase by the time it's needed in the second phase of construction, so estimators need to build that potential cost increase into the estimate.

Adjusting for potential material cost increases throughout a project helps estimators avoid underestimating the cost of materials and ensures the budget remains aligned with actual expenses.

6. Mitigating the Impact of Material Costs on Overall Estimates

To counteract the risks associated with rising material costs, estimators use several strategies to mitigate their impact and create more accurate bids.

Key Strategies Include:

Contingency Planning: As mentioned earlier, adding a contingency allowance to account for material price fluctuations is essential. For high-risk projects or uncertain material prices, a higher contingency might be necessary.

Bulk Purchasing: Purchasing materials in bulk can help secure a better price, especially for common materials like concrete or lumber. Commercial estimators may include these bulk purchase strategies in their estimates to reduce overall costs.

Negotiate with Suppliers: Building strong relationships with suppliers and negotiating long-term contracts for materials can help secure more stable prices over the course of a project. Estimators should factor these agreements into their material cost estimates when possible.

Using these strategies helps minimize the financial impact of material cost fluctuations and contributes to more accurate and reliable estimates.

Conclusion

Material costs are a pivotal aspect of commercial estimating, affecting both the accuracy of the estimate and the overall success of the project. With prices subject to fluctuations due to a variety of factors, commercial estimators must stay informed about market trends, utilize advanced technology, and apply strategic approaches to manage material costs effectively. By doing so, they can create more reliable estimates, avoid unexpected cost overruns, and ensure the timely and cost-efficient completion of commercial construction projects.

[mariacallous]

Mamdani has promised to create 200,000 units of new publicly subsidized, rent-stabilized housing and to fast-track projects consisting entirely of below-market-rate units. His campaign website claims that previous administrations relied “almost entirely” on the zoning code to encourage affordable housing. This is not so. For 40 years, New York has run the nation’s most ambitious and successful affordable-housing program, which rebuilt great swaths of the city using billions of dollars in municipal investment. Zoning changes to allow more housing construction are of recent vintage.

“Zohran and his advisers don’t know history and don’t have the slightest grasp of the numbers,” a former top city housing official told me. (He asked not to be identified because he still works with the city on affordable-housing projects.) Mamdani himself has proposed to triple the amount of money spent on housing in the city’s capital plan, pushing overall costs toward $100 billion over 10 years, which overshadows the estimated cost of his rivals’ plans. And he proposes to accomplish this with union labor, which the city’s Independent Budget Office found would add 23 percent to overall costs.

Meanwhile, Mamdani’s proposal to freeze rent in rent-stabilized units ignores fundamental problems: Landlords of much of the city’s rent-stabilized housing stock—including a number of respected nonprofit groups—cannot afford maintenance costs and debt service, the watchdog Citizens Budget Commission wrote recently. Because expenses are growing faster than rents in older buildings, many are “teetering on the edge of a ‘death spiral.’”

I reached out to Mamdani’s campaign for comment on these issues and have not yet heard back. His supporters seem unbothered by the obvious holes in his proposals. His tax increases sound righteous, a socialist holding the wealthy to account. But the state legislature and governor would have to sign off, and that is a very distant possibility.

I needed to pull this section out because, as many of you may know, my job involves dealing with affordable housing and development and whatnot for the city. And Michael Powell (the writer of this Atlantic piece) and the anonymous former housing official are fully correct, and Mamdani is fully wrong.

The city's zoning plan had not received any kind of comprehensive or focused update since the 1960s, and most construction and development (for housing and otherwise) goes through rezoning through either the UDAAP or ULURP process, which involves the city council specifically designating it a certain way to exempt or change the zoning requirements for the property and the project. It's not until Adams and the City of Yes this past year that we had a comprehensive update, and one with a specific detailed housing component.

In the last budget, the city allocated $2.2 billion in capital funding to the city's housing department for funding development of new and existing affordable housing, and that was a remarkably high amount. The state also allocates funding through the state-level housing and development agency (HCR). Additionally, there's a state-established public corporation (HDC) which also provides funding and support for affordable housing development through the issuance of bonds.

With affordable housing, NYC both builds new housing but also "preserves" or rehabs existing affordable housing. The amount of space available to build new housing is limited, the amount of city-owned property is even more so (which would allow for, in theory, quicker building) and there's numerous parties to the deals both internal to the city as well as external, not limited to the developer, banks, lawyers, architects, contractors etc.

Preserving existing affordable housing involves relocating tenants, identify issues ranging from cash flow, maintenance, arrears (rent and utility, both by tenants but also by the property owner) etc. These are some of the most difficult projects to manage, and often involve a lot of financing. These projects also involve more HUD-financing, and so working with HUD is a big part of the work.

All projects involve some kind of community meeting, and often require council member approval (both the council as a whole as well as the specific council members the projects are located in).

Due to climate change, there's resiliency and environmental concerns, particularly with projects that would be located in flood zones (hello to the Rockaways).

Certain projects, if they have federal funds, trigger Davis-Bacon requirements, meaning contractors and subcontractors must be paid at the "prevailing wage", which adds to the costs (and is essentially what using union labor on all projects would do).

There are multiple oversight agencies involved which scrutinize the use of city funds for these projects, from the Comptroller to the Office of Management and Budget, and they all have lengthy review periods and rather stringent oversight and firm jurisdiction, which slows projects and causes problems.

That's not getting into what other parts of the city's housing department do, from dealing with code violations to providing Section 8 vouchers and so forth.

What Mamdani is proposing doing would require not just a fuckton of money, but also a complete overhaul of city procurement and financing processes, administrative shakeups, and intense negotiations with the city council, the state legislature, and the governor. On top of dealing with other mayors and governors in surrounding states (transportation is another area similar to housing with lots of stumbles and challenges) and with the federal government being the way it is.

[probablyasocialecologist]

One assessment suggests that ChatGPT, the chatbot created by OpenAI in San Francisco, California, is already consuming the energy of 33,000 homes. It’s estimated that a search driven by generative AI uses four to five times the energy of a conventional web search. Within years, large AI systems are likely to need as much energy as entire nations. And it’s not just energy. Generative AI systems need enormous amounts of fresh water to cool their processors and generate electricity. In West Des Moines, Iowa, a giant data-centre cluster serves OpenAI’s most advanced model, GPT-4. A lawsuit by local residents revealed that in July 2022, the month before OpenAI finished training the model, the cluster used about 6% of the district’s water. As Google and Microsoft prepared their Bard and Bing large language models, both had major spikes in water use — increases of 20% and 34%, respectively, in one year, according to the companies’ environmental reports. One preprint suggests that, globally, the demand for water for AI could be half that of the United Kingdom by 2027. In another, Facebook AI researchers called the environmental effects of the industry’s pursuit of scale the “elephant in the room”. Rather than pipe-dream technologies, we need pragmatic actions to limit AI’s ecological impacts now.

[reasonsforhope]

"As 3D-printing methods continue to evolve, it’s not uncommon to see this method employed for various engineering projects, especially in the construction of affordable housing, structures, and schools.

In Ireland, a first-of-its-kind social housing project has been built from the ground up, using 3D printing as a time and money-saving solution.

In fact, it’s Europe’s first 3D-printed social housing project, fully compliant with international standards. In Grange Close, Dundalk, the three-unit terraced build is now a milestone achievement in eastern Ireland. It was created by Harcourt Technologies Ltd (HTL.tech) and assembled using COBOD’s BOD2 3D construction printer.

The unit is 3,550 square feet and is divided into three separate homes, each measuring 1,184 square feet.

The use of this technology allowed for a 35% faster construction process, which took 132 days from start to finish. During that time, the 3D-printed superstructure itself was completed in just 12 printing days. 

Conventional construction methods usually require more than 200 days, according to COBOD, meaning this method could be transformative in quickly scaling affordable housing options.

“Ireland’s housing crisis, driven by a decade of under-construction and rising demand, has reached critical levels, leading to widespread protests and influencing national elections,” HTL.tech shared in a press release.

“The rapid construction made possible by 3D printing offers a promising solution. The homes in Dundalk demonstrate how this technology can address housing shortages by dramatically reducing construction time and costs.”

In the 132 days it took to go from initial site preparation to handing over keys to the client, builders say approximately half of the time savings came directly from 3D printing. 

Additionally, during the project, COBOD upgraded the concrete hose of its printer, which increased its output by 40% and significantly increased the printing speed. With this upgrade, the company estimates that printing times for similar structures would be reduced to nine days instead of 12.

“We continue to improve our technology,” Henrik Lund-Nielsen, general manager and founder of COBOD International, said in a statement, “and although a hose update can be seen as a small step, the numbers from HTL.tech proves that it is not.”

Now, the client — a local housing council — will finish furnishing the homes and will rent them to social housing tenants at an affordable price.

It’s a success that will surely have ripple effects.

“As the first 3D-printed social housing project in Europe, the Grange Close development sets a precedent for future housing solutions,” a press release from HTL.tech explained. “With countries like Sweden and Germany also experimenting with 3D-printed homes, this technology is poised to become a standard approach for addressing housing shortages.”

The statement also added that governments across Europe may increasingly adopt 3D printing to “deliver faster, more cost-effective housing solutions for low-income residents.” 

“This project not only showcases the potential for rapid, sustainable construction but also serves as a blueprint for other nations facing similar challenges,” the statement concluded. “As 3D printing technology evolves, its role in shaping the future of housing construction looks increasingly promising.”"

-via GoodGoodGood, January 23, 2025

‍

[the-scientist-blog]

President Trump’s relationship with climate change policy has been highly controversial and has drawn a significant amount of attention from politicians, environmentalists, and global leaders. While it is true that Trump has been a vocal skeptic of climate change science and has historically supported policies that many believe undermine global climate efforts, the assertion that he would "stop" the progress on climate change entirely is more complicated. There are several factors to consider that illustrate why it is unlikely that Donald Trump will be able to halt the progress on climate change entirely, even with policies that prioritize fossil fuel industries, deregulation, and skepticism towards international climate accords.

1. Global Movements and Public Opinion

One of the primary forces that will prevent Trump from halting climate progress is the widespread global movement in other nations in favor of addressing climate change. Over the past few decades, public awareness and concern over environmental degradation, the rise of extreme weather events, and the growing scientific consensus on climate change have catalyzed action at various levels. Even during Trump's tenure as president, the shift towards climate activism grew, with international agreements such as the Paris Agreement, corporate initiatives, and grassroots environmental movements gaining momentum.

Public opinion, especially in democracies, plays a significant role in shaping policy. In the United States, the majority of Americans support climate action, including a strong preference for clean energy and renewable resources. Despite Trump’s rhetoric, various cities, states, and businesses in the U.S. have continued to prioritize climate goals. For instance, states like California have implemented ambitious climate policies, such as transitioning to 100% renewable energy by 2045. Furthermore, a growing number of corporations have pledged to achieve net-zero emissions. The private sector’s movement towards sustainability, driven by consumer demand, investor pressure, and increasing environmental risks, represents a substantial force for climate action that extends beyond the federal government.

Even if Trump were to reverse or dismantle federal climate policies, the local and private sector commitments would likely remain largely unaffected. These bottom-up efforts represent a powerful counterbalance to federal inaction and are likely to continue advancing the fight against climate change regardless of the administration in power.

2. Economic Shift Toward Clean Energy

While Trump has been a staunch advocate for coal, oil, and gas, the global economic shift toward renewable energy is undeniable. The cost of renewable technologies, such as solar and wind power, has drastically decreased over the last decade. This economic shift makes clean energy an increasingly competitive and attractive option for both developed and developing countries. By 2025, it is estimated that the cost of solar energy will continue to fall, making it even more affordable and mainstream.

The renewable energy sector has seen significant growth in its employment. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), more than 11 million people worldwide were employed in the renewable energy industry by 2021, a figure that is expected to continue rising as nations transition away from fossil fuels. The growth of renewable energy markets is increasingly detached from political agendas, driven by technological innovation and economic pragmatism. Regardless of Trump’s policies, these forces are already in motion and will likely continue to expand, creating jobs, boosting economies, and driving global progress on climate change.

Additionally, as the consequences of climate change, such as extreme weather events, wildfires, and rising sea levels, continue to threaten communities and industries, the push for sustainable infrastructure and resilient urban planning grows. The cost of inaction will continue to drive investments in climate adaptation and mitigation technologies, further fueling the global transition to cleaner energy systems.

3. International Cooperation and Climate Diplomacy

Even during Trump’s presidency, when the United States withdrew from the Paris Agreement in 2017, international cooperation on climate change continued unabated. While the U.S. decision to exit the accord was a blow, it did not signal the end of global climate diplomacy. Many world leaders and climate organizations pushed forward with ambitious plans for carbon reduction, renewable energy investments, and international collaboration. The European Union, China, and India, as well as other nations, have made strides in combating climate change through national policies and international agreements.

Trump’s reluctance to engage with the Paris Agreement, as well as his opposition to climate-focused international cooperation, did not isolate the U.S. from the global conversation on climate change. The U.S. remained a key player in many climate-related issues at the local, corporate, and state levels, even if the federal government under Trump was less cooperative.

4. Technological Innovation and Climate Solutions

The energy sector, which has traditionally relied on fossil fuels, is undergoing a profound transformation. Advances in battery technology, electric vehicles, and green hydrogen are already making renewable energy more feasible for widespread use. As technology continues to develop, renewable energy solutions will become more efficient, less expensive, and more scalable.

Furthermore, the global push for climate action will continue to stimulate innovation. Even if Trump were to curtail government funding for green technology, private investment in clean energy and sustainability is projected to increase. Major companies are making significant strides to reduce their carbon footprints, from Google’s goal of running on 100% renewable energy to Tesla’s push for mass adoption of electric vehicles. Corporate pressure and consumer demand will continue to drive innovation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, limiting the potential for any one individual, including Trump, to stop the progress on climate change.

5. The Resilience of Local and State-Level Action

Despite the Trump administration’s rollback of federal climate policies, local and state governments in the U.S. have continued to push forward with their climate initiatives. States like California, New York, and Washington have continued to prioritize climate action, passing laws that mandate emission reductions, promote renewable energy development, and require climate adaptation strategies.

This decentralized approach to climate action ensures that the United States remains a significant actor in the global effort to combat climate change. Even if Trump were to reintroduce policies that weaken federal regulations, states and cities would likely continue their push for climate policies in line with the global scientific consensus. This “bottom-up” approach is a vital counterbalance to the federal government’s actions and is indicative of a broader commitment to addressing climate change that transcends individual political figures.

Read the Conclusion at https://www.thescientistblog.com/blog/you-cant-stop-destiny

[batboyblog]

Things Biden and the Democrats did, this week #14

April 12-19 2024

The Department of Commerce announced a deal with Samsung to help bring advanced semiconductor manufacturing and research and development to Texas. The deal will bring 45 billion dollars of investment to Texas to help build a research center in Taylor Texas and expand Samsung's Austin, Texas, semiconductor facility. The Biden Administration estimates this will create 21,000 new jobs. Since 1990 America has fallen from making nearly 40% of the world's semiconductor to just over 10% in 2020.

The Department of Energy announced it granted New York State $158 million to help support people making their homes more energy efficient. This is the first payment out of a $8.8 billion dollar program with 11 other states having already applied. The program will rebate Americans for improvements on their homes to lower energy usage. Americans could get as much as $8,000 off for installing a heat pump, as well as for improvements in insulation, wiring, and electrical panel. The program is expected to help save Americans $1 billion in electoral costs, and help create 50,000 new jobs.

The Department of Education began the formal process to make President Biden's new Student Loan Debt relief plan a reality. The Department published the first set of draft rules for the program. The rules will face 30 days of public comment before a second draft can be released. The Administration hopes the process can be finished by the Fall to bring debt relief to 30 million Americans, and totally eliminate the debt of 4 million former students. The Administration has already wiped out the debt of 4.3 million borrowers so far.

The Department of Agriculture announced a $1 billion dollar collaboration with USAID to buy American grown foods combat global hunger. Most of the money will go to traditional shelf stable goods distributed by USAID, like wheat, rice, sorghum, lentils, chickpeas, dry peas, vegetable oil, cornmeal, navy beans, pinto beans and kidney beans, while $50 million will go to a pilot program to see if USAID can expand what it normally gives to new products. The food aid will help feed people in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Haiti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Yemen.

The Department of the Interior announced it's expanding four national wildlife refuges to protect 1.13 million wildlife habitat. The refuges are in New Mexico, North Carolina, and two in Texas. The Department also signed an order protecting parts of the Placitas area. The land is considered sacred by the Pueblos peoples of the area who have long lobbied for his protection. Security Deb Haaland the first Native American to serve as Interior Secretary and a Pueblo herself signed the order in her native New Mexico.

The Department of Labor announced new work place safety regulations about the safe amount of silica dust mine workers can be exposed to. The dust is known to cause scaring in the lungs often called black lung. It's estimated that the new regulations will save over 1,000 lives a year. The United Mine Workers have long fought for these changes and applauded the Biden Administration's actions.

The Biden Administration announced its progress in closing the racial wealth gap in America. Under President Biden the level of Black Unemployment is the lowest its ever been since it started being tracked in the 1970s, and the gap between white and black unemployment is the smallest its ever been as well. Black wealth is up 60% over where it was in 2019. The share of black owned businesses doubled between 2019 and 2022. New black businesses are being created at the fastest rate in 30 years. The Administration in 2021 Interagency Task Force to combat unfair house appraisals. Black homeowners regularly have their homes undervalued compared to whites who own comparable property. Since the Taskforce started the likelihood of such a gap has dropped by 40% and even disappeared in some states. 2023 represented a record breaking $76.2 billion in federal contracts going to small business owned by members of minority communities. This was 12% of federal contracts and the President aims to make it 15% for 2025.

The EPA announced (just now as I write this) that it plans to add PFAS, known as forever chemicals, to the Superfund law. This would require manufacturers to pay to clean up two PFAS, perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid. This move to force manufacturers to cover the costs of PFAS clean up comes after last week's new rule on drinking water which will remove PFAS from the nation's drinking water.

Bonus:

President Biden met a Senior named Bob in Pennsylvania who is personally benefiting from The President's capping the price of insulin for Seniors at $35, and Biden let Bob know about a cap on prosecution drug payments for seniors that will cut Bob's drug bills by more than half.

[ms-demeanor]

Amy tips for getting 30 prebuilt pcs for 1500$ each

We're going to play a game where I show tumblr what I do at work by doing it on tumblr. You can answer my questions in successive anonymous asks. My responses to you will be bracketed by dashed lines, with instructions and commentary before and after.

---------------------------

Hi Anon!

I can definitely help you with your desktop needs. Can you tell me whether you're looking minimize your costs, or get the maximum amount of computer that I can get you for a per-unit price of $1500?

Here are some details that will help me narrow down options that are a good fit for your situation:

Very generally, what will these be for? Basic office use (browsing, office suite)? Video Production? CAD? Finance? Medical providers? Educators?

What date are you looking to have these machines in place?

Is there a specific type of software that you know will be installed on these devices, and if so can you get me the hardware specs required by the software vendor?

Please let me know if you've got any questions, or if there is anything that I can do for you.

Thanks! - Ms-D

-----------------------------

The average cost of business desktops that I sell at work is $700-$900; these are devices that I would give an anticipated lifespan of 7 years, with hardware upgrades planned at 5 years. This is for a mid-range desktop with a 3-year next business day onsite warranty, no software, and does not include the cost of tax, shipping, or configuration. The cost of labor can come close to the cost of the machine for configuration. If I were *PERSONALLY* deploying these machines (pulling them out of the box, debloating, creating profiles, installing software, reboxing, transporting to the site, installing and connecting to peripherals) I'd probably charge around $200-300 per device. My work charges a lot more. Because of that, a 1500 computer is quite likely to be a 700 computer with three hours of estimated labor. If you've got an in-house IT department and aren't going to be paying through the nose for setup, you can get *a lot* of business-class computer for $1500.

If someone at work asked me for a $1500 computer, I would assume that was the cost of the machine ONLY, no peripherals, no configuration, no installation, no software, though I would try to consider both tax and our markup and would look for devices that would maximize performance while under-but-close-to the mark. If I found something that was slightly over (say by up to $70), I would drop our markup to get closer to the client's budget.

What this means for YOU, the computer consumer, is that when you're looking at a computer you need to consider the following in your budget, NOT just the sticker price.

Computer Cost

Software Cost

Setup Cost (if you're not doing it yourself)

Shipping Cost

Tax

Peripherals (computers almost all come with a mouse and a keyboard, these are usually inexpensive but very sturdy; if you want a nice keyboard and an ergonomic mouse you have to buy your own)

Whether you will LOSE peripherals when you replace your current device - do you need to buy an external optical disk drive if your old machine had a CD drive but the new machine doesn't?

Those things can add hundreds of dollars to your total cost, so figure out how much that will be so that you can figure out what your ACTUAL budget for your computer is.

(Also your computer shouldn't be plugged directly into the wall; if you're getting ready to replace a machine and you don't already own a desktop UPS, a desktop UPS should be part of the cost of your next machine!)

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from The Revelator:

When Kathryn Parsley taught biology to undergrads, she sometimes talked about Australia’s stinging tree, which is among the world’s most venomous plants — and can cause months of excruciating pain for anyone who approaches it.

“It’s incredibly dangerous,” she says. “If you even get close, its trichomes can get on you and it feels like your skin is on fire.” The sensation has been compared to being burned with hot acid and electrocuted at the same time.

The stinging tree got her students’ attention, and that was Parsley’s aim. Many people consider plants benign and boring, if they consider them at all. Most plants don’t exist for them as distinct species; instead they compose what some botanists call “a green curtain”— a generic backdrop for more interesting creatures, namely animals, preferably vertebrates, ultimately humans.

Parsley wrote her dissertation on the subject of plant blindness, a term coined in 1999 by American botanists James Wandersee and Elisabeth Schussler, who defined it as “the inability to see or notice the plants in one’s own environment.”

Several studies — including one Parsley conducted — have documented a difference in the visual attention people pay to animals compared to plants. When shown images in rapid succession, university students were better able to detect the animals and recalled more animal than plant names. There’s even evidence that some students didn’t perceive plants as being alive.

Because of its reference to vision, Parsley considers the term “plant blindness” ableist and suggests the term plant awareness disparity instead. It has also been called zoochauvinism and zoocentrism.

Whatever you call it, many people find plants unworthy of their consideration. Yet in terms of sheer volume, plants dwarf the rest of life on Earth’s surface. Plant biomass is estimated to be 450 gigatons on land, while animals account for only 2 gigatons. Plant-blind humans simply discard most of the plant information their eye-brain systems take in, processing information about something else instead.

Wandersee and Schussler attributed some of that apathy to the fact that plants, unlike animals, don’t have a face. Nor can they move or threaten us in the way animals can. But while these plant traits have been fairly constant over time, experts think plant blindness is on the rise.

So if plants haven’t changed, why have we?

As it turns out, we haven’t all changed. The rate of plant blindness varies across cultures. Most of the research on it has been done in the United States and United Kingdom, whereas “Indigenous people are very plant-oriented,” Parsley points out. “Some subcultures in the U.S. and outside the U.S. are very plant-oriented.”

It wasn’t that long ago that many people in Eurocentric cultures revered plants, too. But our relationship with plants has changed. Two hundred years ago, most people lived on farms. They grew and gathered their own food, so they had to know plants. Today most of us live in cities and towns. We don’t rely on our plant-identification skills in order to eat.

[jaeminvore]

Young God | L.DH (M) — PREVIEW

READ HERE

SYNOPSIS: desperation had this funny way of skewing one’s perception, and since you were, in fact, way past the point of desperation, it wasn’t a surprise that you jumped the gun without even questioning the absurdly cheap rent price of the seemingly perfect apartment unit. What you failed to consider was the reason why it didn't cost you and arm and a leg and it soon came in the form of an incubus in your bathroom belting his heart out on a Sunday morning.

(alternatively: in which you were essentially scammed into cohabiting with a ridiculously clingy demon that lives off of sex. It could be worse. At least he staved off from sucking your soul out in exchange of you sucking something else—among other things).

GENRE: supernatural, urban fantasy, slice of life, humor, crack treated seriously, fluff, smut MDNI!

WARNINGS: incubus!hyuck, fem!human!reader, bickering, crude language (full list of warnings will be stated in the actual fic)

WORD COUNT: estimated 15K-20K (1.1K for the preview)

RELEASE DATE: 22nd of November

TAGLIST: send me an ask if you’d like to be tagged/notified when I post the fic!

NOTES: happy October! and what a better way of starting the spooky month with a preview for a fic that I've been working on (and screaming to the girls about im so sorry 😭) that fit the spooky aspect lol, but don't be fooled! This is actually funnier (and cuter) than it might initially come off 🫡

“Now where’d you run off to this early in the morning?”

You gritted your teeth, feeling a vein pulse on your temple. That voice.

Pretty privilege could come next time because at this very second, you weren’t feeling privileged being graced by the so-called prettiness, but threatened to even fully appreciate what he’s got going for him. Physically wise.

Without thinking, your hand shot out to grab the closest thing to you, an empty vase, and hurled it with all you’ve got, aiming straight for the intruder’s face who didn’t seem bothered in the slightest. It was like watching everything in slow motion, how the decorative piece took its sweet time to smack his face and hopefully break his nose (best case scenario).

This was the worst case scenario, with the vase pausing in mid-air as if time just decided to stop being a thing, all in this demon’s favor.

You were actually going insane, that was the only explanation because no law of physics could explain the current state of the decorative vase—it’s still in the fucking air. Holy shit—nor did you think telekinesis could extend beyond the old, generic trick of bending spoons with your mind.

“Hey,” As if you weren’t terrified enough, the stranger peeked from one of the vase’s sides with a disapproving pout. You scooted further away until your back hit the arm rest. “I picked this out for you, y’know? Thought you’d like it.” With a lazy flick of his wrist the vase ended up floating all the way into the kitchen, much to your horror, to sit on top of the refrigerator.

“Maybe we should not throw things next time?”

Your eyes flickered towards him, dumbfounded.

“You… last night,” There really was no mistaking it. The voice already told you enough. It was all too distinct; the arrogance, the grating inflection that screamed he solely existed to get on your nerves, and it was working. “In my dream. That was you?”

“Wasn’t just last night, little human. I’ve been in all of your dreams since you moved here.” He shrugged, leaning laxly against the door frame with his arms crossed. “You were way nicer in them. Pliant,” he had two fingers up to prove whatever point he was making. “didn’t throw things at me,” and there goes the third finger.

Smoke was practically coming out of your ears as you sat up straighter, tense. “Oh, I’m sorry!” One of your hands flew to your chest, tone high and mocking. “I didn’t know I had to show proper etiquette to a fucking trespasser!” You scrambled for your phone. “Now, please leave or I will call the police—”

It happened all too fast. Too fast for your human brain to comprehend because just a second ago, you were really serious about involving the police in this. Now, you were flat on your back with the wind knocked right out of you and a lapful of the man plaguing most of your nights. The atmosphere felt heavier, now that the kittenish air surrounding him was gone and the very corner of his lips tilted down into a frown as he plucked your phone out of your hand.

“First thing’s first, no police. You won’t get rid of me that way. Second, this is my”— he pointed to himself —“home. My apartment. I was just nice enough to let you stay for how long you liked.”

“I paid for this unit you—you demon!” You didn’t even try to be subtle with the eye-rolling. Of course he would preen at the title. “If anything, it’s my apartment!”

“Okay? I tied a piece of me down to this place. My sigil is somewhere around here to prove it—meaning, I have higher authority.”

A sigil. Of course. This is your life now. Possibly sharing a space with a fucking demon of all things. Exciting, but not exciting enough to stave off your hunger and you were starting to get antsy. You were just arguing for the sake of arguing to blow off some steam and to get in the last word.

“I signed a lease. The lease has my name on it.” you said as if that was on par with whatever he was talking about (probably not).

“Technically, I signed away a part of my life, so.”

Fuck. Fine. He got you there.

“Are you always going to do this?” You resigned, wriggling underneath his weight. “You’re kinda heavy.”

“I mean if it works, right?” The demon giggled, tilting his head with a coy smile as he put more weight onto your thighs, one hand falling behind to rest on your knee. “It’s not like you complained before.”

“Technically,” (“I do not fucking sound like that.”) “you smothered me in my dreams—dreams, so they don’t count.”

Which meant that you had full control of your body out of the dreamscape, proven by the indignant yell the demon let out as he was unceremoniously pushed to the ground for the second time within the twenty-four hour time frame. It wasn’t enough to make up for the numerous times he had you under him, but for now, you were even.

“They sure do!” he exclaimed from where you left him still sprawled on the floor.

“Nope. This conversation is over.”

The stew was just about done, the soup reduced to the right amount as you switched off the stove and range hood, bathing your apartment in still quietness besides the bustling from outside. The soft padding of feet came in quick succession until warmth hovered just mere centimeters behind you.

Turning your head, the demon was there, his chin just shy of resting onto the dip of your shoulder as he peered curiously at the steaming pot.

“Is that… kimchi stew?” he wondered, taking a generous whiff and appearing just as hungry as you felt. “It is kimchi stew.”

You snickered, all animosity fading into faint amusement, “I take it that you’d like some?” It was such a human reaction that you couldn’t help but smile, reaching for the ladle.

“Please?” he pressed, amber eyes all wide and imploring. “I haven’t had a decent bowl of the stuff in, like, weeks.”

“Well, make yourself useful. Set the table, yeah? And pass me two bowls while you’re at it. You know where they are…” you trailed off, looking at him in silent question. You haven’t asked for his name, or what he would like to be addressed as.

Somehow, the demon was rather quick on the uptake, curling his lips as he pushed off to do what you asked him to.

“Haechan,” he called over his shoulder, grinning as he reached for the cupboard’s handle. “You can call me Haechan.”

note: hyuck in the banner just screamed demon to me and it may or may not have caused the brainworms still wriggling in my brain to push me into writing this (rip to my wips i had before this) like just LOOK at these photos they awoken something carnal in me and i need him biblically actually

taglist: @jaylaxies @celeste-hoon @justalildumpling @dammit-jjk