A Guide for Estimators & Project Managers

We’ve seen it too many times: subs who miss required warranty language, number of Kynar coats, or a specific performance requirement baked into Division 8.

What to do: Make sure your glazing sub is bidding per plans and specs—not just the drawings. If your bid request is vague, clarify: “Base bid should be per spec, not value-engineered unless specifically asked.”

Why it matters: You’re signing a contract that holds you to the spec. If the glazing sub didn’t include it but it’s in the contract, you’re still on the hook. It’s not their problem anymore—it’s yours.

A good bid should break down total square footage by system type: storefront, curtain wall, window wall, etc. Ask your subs to include this every time.

What to ask for:

• Total SF by system

• Glass type and performance notes

• Mullion finish and thickness

• Anchoring or embed requirements

• Takeoff documentation

Why it matters: It helps you level bids faster and catch omissions before they become change orders. And it protects your sub from underbidding themselves.

We provide our on-screen takeoffs with every proposal. Any sub who won’t—or can’t—do the same isn’t taking the job seriously.

Why it matters: This gives you confidence the scope was actually reviewed in detail, not just swagged from a prior job. It also helps your internal team if you need to hand the job off post-bid.

Don’t wait until post-award to find out the details are fuzzy. If your glazing sub sees something off or unclear, they should be helping you by sending RFIs during the bidding phase.

What to say: “If you see any code conflicts, spec contradictions, or unclear details—flag them now. We want to fix it upfront, not fight over it later.”

Why it matters: Proactive RFIs protect everyone—from estimator to PM to client—and build trust with your subs.

Yes, cost matters. But we’ve both seen what happens when the lowest bid misses half the scope or starts submitting change orders on day one.

What to look for:

• Did the sub include all required warranties, testing, and performance data?

• Did they include embeds or assume “by others”?

• Do they list exclusions clearly?

• Is the proposal tied to the spec—by section and page?

Why it matters:

You’re not just buying materials and labor—you’re buying professionalism, accountability, and the ability to meet deadlines. A clean bid that takes everything into account is worth more than one that’s just cheap.