Project Planning Checklists
Our calculators give you planning-grade estimates. These checklists help you turn an estimate into an execution plan: what to confirm on-site, what to order (and when), and also which details commonly cause waste and delays. Each checklist includes a printable PDF and direct links to the relevant calculators.
Last updated: 27 Feb 2026
How to Use These Checklists (with our calculators)
A strong estimate is only part of a successful project. Use this simple workflow to reduce under-ordering, avoid missed steps, and plan for the most common site variables:
- Measure and estimate: run the relevant calculator(s) using your best measurements.
- Confirm assumptions: choose thickness, waste, compaction, and coverage values that match your job. See Calculation Assumptions.
- Account for site conditions: slope, soil, access, weather, drainage, and substrate condition affect results.
- Order in practical units: round to bags, boxes, bundles, and delivery constraints. Keep a contingency.
- Verify compliance: where structural loads, electrical, or permits apply, consult local rules and qualified pros.
These checklists are designed for planning and sequencing. For calculation details and citations, see Methodology and Data Sources.
Concrete Slab Planning Checklist
Concrete work goes wrong most often in the steps before the pour: subgrade prep, base compaction, reinforcement placement, and control joint planning. Use this checklist after calculating volume to ensure you’re ordering correctly and setting up a slab that performs.
1) Plan
- Confirm slab purpose (patio, driveway, garage) and expected load.
- Set slab dimensions and target thickness (common:
4–6 in, project-dependent). - Decide reinforcement approach (mesh vs rebar) and edge needs (thickened edges, footings).
2) Prepare
- Verify excavation depth (slab + base + any grade correction).
- Plan base layer thickness and compaction steps (multiple passes are common).
- Assess drainage and slope; avoid trapping water under the slab.
- Consider vapor barrier and joint planning early (before forms are set).
3) Order
- Calculate volume and add a contingency (often
5–10%) for waste and site variance. - Confirm whether you’re using ready-mix delivery or bag mix (access and labor matter).
- Check delivery access (truck chute reach, wheelbarrow distance, pump requirements).
4) Verify
- Confirm reinforcement spacing, chairs/support, and cover depth before the pour.
- Plan control joints (spacing and placement) to reduce cracking risk.
- Plan curing and protection (weather, traffic timing, moisture retention).
- For structural, load-bearing, or frost-exposed slabs, consult a qualified professional.
Related calculators
Tip: Save the PDF and bring it to the supplier/yard to confirm ordering units.
Deck Build Planning Checklist
Deck projects require correct framing layout, footing planning, and code-aware rail and connection details. Use this checklist to verify scope, prepare the site, and order framing materials with realistic waste allowance.
1) Plan
- Confirm deck dimensions, height, and whether it’s free-standing or attached.
- Decide surface material (treated lumber vs composite) and stair needs.
- Plan joist layout and overall framing approach (beams, posts, ledger details).
2) Prepare
- Mark post locations and confirm ground clearance and drainage.
- Plan footing depth/size for local conditions (frost/soil and load needs vary).
- Verify ledger attachment method (if applicable) and flashing strategy.
3) Order
- Estimate framing lumber quantities and include waste (often
5–10%). - Don’t forget connectors and hardware (joist hangers, bolts, screws, post bases).
- Order decking boards with a cut plan (layout direction affects waste).
4) Verify
- Confirm spans, spacing, and load requirements against current local standards.
- Plan rail, stair, and landing requirements before purchasing materials.
- If unsure about structural connections or spans, consult a qualified pro.
Related calculators
Gravel Driveway Planning Checklist
The biggest performance difference in gravel projects comes from base prep, drainage, and compaction. Use this checklist to validate your plan before ordering tons/yards and scheduling delivery.
1) Plan
- Confirm length, width, and target compacted depth by layer (base vs top course).
- Decide on material type (gravel vs crushed stone) and edge control approach.
- Plan crown/slope to move water away from the driving surface.
2) Prepare
- Plan excavation depth and grade correction; remove soft spots.
- Consider geotextile where soil is weak or pumping occurs.
- Plan compaction method and number of passes (settlement is real).
3) Order
- Estimate material quantity and account for compaction/settlement allowance.
- Confirm delivery method (tailgate spread vs dumped piles) and access width.
- Verify whether supplier quotes tons or cubic yards and confirm density assumptions.
4) Verify
- Check drainage flow paths (avoid low spots that hold water).
- Plan maintenance: periodic top-ups and regrading are common.
- For heavy vehicle or steep grades, consult a qualified contractor for layer design.
Related calculators
Roof Replacement Planning Checklist
Roofing estimates vary because pitch, valleys/ridges, and flashing details drive waste and accessory quantities. Use this checklist to measure correctly, order the right extras, and plan a safe weather window.
1) Plan
- Measure roof area and determine pitch factor (complex roofs need extra care).
- Note valleys, ridges, dormers, and penetrations (vents/chimneys) that increase materials.
- Plan safety approach; steep roofs may require professional help.
2) Prepare
- Plan underlayment and flashing replacement (don’t assume reuse).
- Choose a weather window and staging strategy for tear-off and install.
- Confirm waste disposal (dumpster, haul-away) and local requirements.
3) Order
- Estimate shingles (squares/bundles) and add typical waste (often
10–15%). - Include accessories: starter, ridge cap, nails, drip edge, vents, ice/water barrier (where applicable).
- Confirm wind rating and product system requirements before purchase.
4) Verify
- Confirm ventilation approach (intake/exhaust balance matters for roof life).
- Verify flashing details for penetrations and transitions.
- For structural issues, steep slopes, or uncertain compliance, consult qualified pros.
Related calculators
Fence Installation Planning Checklist
Fence success depends on layout accuracy, post depth, bracing, and gate planning. This checklist helps you avoid common failures like leaning posts, sagging gates, and under-ordering pickets/rails.
1) Plan
- Confirm total fence length, style, and post spacing plan.
- Mark gate locations and choose gate width (hardware needs space and bracing).
- Plan corner and end-post bracing (critical for stability).
2) Prepare
- Check terrain changes and plan steps or racking approach.
- Plan post depth based on soil and exposure; windy sites often need stronger bracing.
- Confirm utility safety practices and local boundary considerations before digging.
3) Order
- Estimate posts, rails, pickets, and concrete (if setting posts in concrete) with waste allowance.
- Order hardware: hinges, latches, fasteners, post caps, braces.
- Confirm material type and treatment suitability for your climate.
4) Verify
- Confirm property line and any permit/HOA requirements.
- Verify post alignment, level, and cure timing before hanging gates.
- For difficult soils, heavy gates, or tall fences, consult a qualified pro.
Related calculators
Flooring Planning Checklist (Tile & Laminate)
Flooring estimates fail when waste is underestimated or the substrate is not prepared. This checklist helps you plan layout, ordering, and installation steps for tile and laminate projects with fewer surprises.
1) Plan
- Confirm room dimensions and decide layout direction (impacts cuts and waste).
- Identify transitions (doorways, thresholds) and trim requirements.
- For tile: choose pattern (straight vs diagonal) and grout joint width.
2) Prepare
- Assess subfloor flatness and moisture concerns; plan leveling where needed.
- For laminate: plan underlayment and expansion gap clearance.
- For tile: verify backer board/membrane needs and appropriate thinset type.
3) Order
- Calculate area and add waste allowance (typical:
10–15%depending on cuts/pattern). - Order trim, transitions, spacers, and consumables (adhesives, grout, sealers where applicable).
- Confirm box coverage and dye lot/batch matching (especially for tile).
4) Verify
- Do a dry layout or chalk line plan before committing to cuts.
- Confirm acclimation needs for laminate and cure times for tile adhesives/grout.
- If substrate issues exist (moisture, movement, unevenness), consult a qualified pro.
Related calculators
Common Planning Mistakes That Increase Cost
- Underestimating waste: cuts, breakage, spillage, and layout complexity are real—build in a contingency.
- Ignoring compaction/settlement: aggregates and asphalt often need extra to account for compaction and consolidation.
- Ordering without a delivery plan: access constraints change whether a delivery is usable or requires extra labor/equipment.
- Skipping substrate prep: uneven subfloors or poor drainage can cause failures even with “correct” quantities.
- Forgetting accessories: roofing, flooring, and even decks require hardware and system components beyond the primary material.
- Not planning inspection points: reinforcement, footing depth, and structural connections often matter before you can “fix later.”
We publish calculation assumptions and defaults so you can match your local conditions. See Calculation Assumptions, Methodology, and Data Sources.
Inspection & Code Notes
Building codes and permit requirements vary by location and project scope. These checklists are designed for planning and sequencing, not as stamped engineering documents. If your project involves structural loads, electrical work, plumbing work, or a permit requirement, consult local regulations and qualified professionals before going ahead with the project.
- Structural work: slabs, decks, beams, trusses, and footings may require professional verification.
- Site conditions: soil type, frost exposure, drainage, and slope can change requirements and best practices.
- Manufacturer systems: some products require specific accessories to maintain warranty and performance.
Found an issue or want a checklist added? Please contact us.