In kitchen and bath remodels, estimating is not just a pricing process. It is a risk management process. Every decision made in estimating has a direct impact on profitability, scheduling, trade management, and client trust.
Kitchen and bath remodels are different from other disciplines of construction in that you can have multiple trade activities contained within one estimate process and in such a small area. A single estimate process can contain elements such as demolition, framing, electricity, plumbing, HVAC, cabinetry, countertops, appliances, tile, and inspections.
When remodelers manage multiple projects, inaccurate estimating is a compounding problem. Projects that are underestimated result in constant change orders, while projects that are overestimated result in lost contracts and lost client trust.
Therefore, estimating software for kitchen and bath remodelers is not a “nice to have”– It is a necessity.
In this article, we will cover how kitchen & bath remodelers use estimating software, important features to consider, and compare the best kitchen & bath estimating software, starting with 123worx, to help you choose the right estimating software for your business.
Why is Estimating Software Uniquely Complex in Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Projects
Kitchen and bath remodel estimating is an estimating niche that is very different from most other types of construction estimating.
Dense Scopes in a Small Space
A kitchen or bathroom is a very small space, yet the density of a kitchen or bathroom remodel is very high. A multitude of trade activities happen in a very small space, and a small mistake in estimating can have a very large impact.
Heavy Client Customization
Clients expect a lot of personalization when remodeling their kitchen or bathroom. Clients want to customize everything from the style of cabinetry to fixtures, layout, and appliances.
Hidden Conditions Are Common
Older homes often have hidden conditions such as outdated electrical systems, plumbing issues, and structural problems. Estimators must account for these conditions with transparency.
Tight Budgets and High Expectations
Clients have high expectations for budgeting for kitchen and bathroom remodels. Remodelers must balance tight budgets with the need to protect their margins.
These areas often cause problems for remodelers because generic estimating tools do not accurately portray the process.
What Kitchen & Bath Remodelers Should Look for in Estimating Software
Not all estimating software is created equal. Here are some questions remodelers should ask when considering estimating software:
Estimating software should align with the remodeling workflow. The calculation engine should be a given.
Remodelers should consider the following:
Can it do a scope-based estimating process?
Estimating software should be able to handle a scope-based estimating process. This means the remodeler can break down the process into different phases.
Can it handle allowances and selections?
Estimating needs to be able to calculate the process for allowances and selections.
Is estimating linked to scheduling?
Estimating should be integrated with the scheduling process for kitchen and bath remodelers.
Can it repeat the process?
Estimating should be able to repeat the process for different projects.
How Estimating Software Fits into the Remodeling Workflow
Estimating is not a standalone process. Remodelers should consider the following:
- Estimating should be your design-to-build process.
- Your estimate should validate your design.
- Your estimate should be how you get client approvals.
- Estimating should be your changes, allowances, and trade coordination tool.
For remodelers with many projects underway, estimation software is a steady foundation that keeps everything on track. Otherwise, every project is a custom negotiation under pressure.
Best Estimating Software for Kitchen & Bath Remodelers
The following are six estimating software options; each reviewed with the specific needs and requirements of kitchen and bath remodelers in mind.
1. 123worx
Best For: Remodelers seeking estimates directly for the kitchen and bath remodeling workflow process.
123worx takes a holistic view of the entire kitchen and bath remodeling workflow and integrates estimating as an integral part of the process. Estimating is organized into real kitchen and bath remodeling phases.
Key Estimating Strengths:
- Organized into phases that are directly related to the remodel workflow.
- Clear handling of allowances and selections.
- Strong integration with scheduling and change management.
Pros:
- Specifically designed for kitchen and bath remodelers
- Improves consistency across multiple estimates
- Helps prevent scope creep with structured documentation
Cons:
- Not designed for non-remodel construction
Where It Struggles: General contractors outside the kitchen and bath remodeling space.
Ideal Use: Remodelers seeking an estimating, scheduling, and workflow management system.
2. Buildertrend
Best For: Complete construction management with estimating
Buildertrend offers an estimating module as part of its overall project management system. The software supports all forms of construction, including remodeling.
Pros:
- Comprehensive feature set
- Includes estimate approval for clients
- Grows with the business
Cons:
- Not specifically designed for kitchen and bath remodelers
Where It Struggles: Dense remodel project scopes require customization to prevent overly general estimates.
Ideal Use: Larger construction management firms with multiple project types.
3. CoConstruct
Best For: Design-build remodelers
CoConstruct brings estimating together with selections and client communication. This makes CoConstruct popular with design-build firms.
Pros:
- Good client communication tools
- Good visibility into selections and allowances
Cons:
- Less control over estimating logic
Where It Struggles: Highly detailed or phased kitchen and bath estimating.
Ideal Use Case: Design-build firms focusing on client experience.
4. ProEst
Best for: Professional Estimators
ProEst is an advanced estimating software used by construction companies for estimating different construction projects. For ProEst to be used effectively, estimating is best treated as a specialized function rather than a shared one.
Pros:
- Highly advanced estimating tools
- Good reporting and analytics tools
Cons:
- Difficult to learn
- Not remodel-specific
Where It Struggles: Managing multiple complex projects.
Ideal Use Case: Companies with dedicated estimating teams.
5. Clear Estimates
Best for: Small Remodeling Businesses
Clear Estimates is an estimating software designed for remodelers and construction companies. Clear Estimates is ideal for remodelers who want to move beyond using spreadsheets for estimating.
Pros:
- Remodeler templates
- Easier to learn
Cons:
- Less workflow integration
Where It Struggles: Managing multiple projects.
Ideal Use Case: Smaller remodeling companies looking to move beyond spreadsheets.
6. Smartsheet
Best for: Custom Estimating Solutions
Smartsheet is another tool used by construction companies for estimating different types of construction projects. Smartsheet’s flexibility makes it popular among construction companies.
Pros:
- Highly flexible and customizable
- Spreadsheet-style interface
Cons:
- Lack of remodeling logic
Where It Struggles: Ensuring user compliance.
Ideal Use Case: Companies willing to build their own estimating solutions.
Estimating Software Comparison Table for Kitchen & Bath Remodelers
| Software | Remodel-Specific Estimating | Workflow Integration | Handles Allowances Well | Scales Across Projects | Learning Curve |
| 123Worx | Yes (Kitchen & Bath Focused) | High | Excellent | High | Low–Moderate |
| Buildertrend | General Construction | Medium | Good | High | Moderate |
| CoConstruct | Remodel-Friendly | Medium | Good | Medium | Low–Moderate |
| ProEst | No (Estimator-Focused) | Low | Moderate | High | High |
| Clear Estimates | Yes (Small Remodels) | Low | Moderate | Low–Medium | Low |
| Smartsheet | No (Custom Setup Required) | User-Dependent | User-Dependent | Medium | Moderate |
If you’re also comparing broader platforms, you can see our full breakdown of the best software for kitchen and bath remodelers.
Estimating Software vs Spreadsheets
Spreadsheets are also widely used because they are intuitive and inexpensive; however, they have many weaknesses when it comes to remodeling kitchens and bathrooms.
As the project scope becomes denser, spreadsheets struggle to track document versions, changes, and provide a reliable audit trail. A small change in a formula or outdated figures can have a large impact on an entire spreadsheet.
Estimating software provides structure and accountability. It allows remodelers to track their assumptions and their allowances, as well as track their changes. This is especially important if they have multiple projects underway at the same time.
As the scope of the project increases in density, spreadsheets are not only slowing down the remodeler; they are also increasing their risk of financial loss.
How to Choose the Right Estimating Software for Your Remodeling Business
When selecting an estimating software solution, it is less about the software itself and more about the needs of the business. For example, if the business is small, they may require software that is easy to use and easy to implement.
If they are growing, they may require software that provides them with repeatability and consistency between projects. The number of projects also plays an important role in selecting an estimating software solution.
For example, if they are estimating five kitchens per year, this is quite different from estimating five kitchens at the same time. They may require software that provides them with better support in these situations.
Most importantly, they must choose software that they will actually use. This is more important than the software itself.
Common Estimating Mistakes Kitchen & Bath Remodelers Make
One of the most common mistakes is treating an estimate as a static document. As the design of the project evolves, so does the selection of materials. This means the estimate must also evolve to remain relevant.
The second most common mistake is failing to document their assumptions. This can lead to many problems during the construction of the project.
In addition, underestimating labor in tight spaces and poor allowance management are other common mistakes that affect profitability.
All these mistakes are likely to be experienced when handling many projects at once. In this case, the use of estimating software reduces the risk of mistakes. The software promotes consistency and visibility in all estimates.
The Role of Estimating in Managing Multiple Remodels
Estimating is an essential tool for remodelers handling multiple projects. Here, estimating goes beyond pricing. It becomes a form of capacity management. Accurate and consistent estimates help remodelers understand workload, plan resources, and avoid overcommitting.
Estimates are also useful when handling changes. In this case, changes are easily managed since the estimates are already in place. Therefore, this promotes stability when handling many projects. In this case, remodelers are likely to remain profitable when handling many projects.
Without an effective estimating system, many projects become difficult to handle. Therefore, this promotes chaos when handling many projects. In this case, the right estimating software is essential when handling kitchen and bath remodel projects.
Final Recommendation for Kitchen & Bath Remodelers
The best estimating software is the one that aligns with the realities of kitchen and bath remodeling projects. In this case, remodelers should consider software that supports kitchen and bath projects.
That’s why workflow-driven estimating software like 123worx hooks estimating into scheduling and execution. If you’re a remodeler looking to grow your business without growing chaos, investing in great estimating software isn’t upgrading your game; it’s leveling the playing field.
FAQs – Kitchen & Bath Estimating Software
Do kitchen & bath remodelers need remodeler-specific estimating software?
Absolutely. Volume, customization, and sequencing requirements call for remodeler-specific tools, not generic construction software.
Do I need estimating software that can handle constant client changes?
Yes. Good software tracks allowances, revisions, and approvals transparently, minimizing disputes and rework.
Is estimating software cost prohibitive?
Not when you factor in the time remodeling businesses with multiple projects in process save by protecting their margins and eliminating errors. Software pays for itself quickly.
Should estimating be linked to scheduling?
Yes. Connecting your estimates to your schedules allows remodelers to run with predictable outcomes on all projects.
As a Vice President at 123worx, Construction Management Platform, Bharat Rudra has worked with hundreds of business executives searching for best-suited software for their construction business with a wide array of requirements. Bharat takes pride in helping construction businesses solve their business and project management challenges. Feel free to reach Bharat if you have any questions. You can find him on LinkedIn or reach him at brudra@123worx.com
