Construction Labour Estimator (Man-Days & Cost)
Estimate mason and helper man-days, calendar duration for a crew, and labour cost from quantity, productivity, and Nepal day rates.
Use the same unit for quantity and output (m² plaster, m² brick, m³ concrete, nos, etc.).
33.0 person-days total · ≈ 413 NPR per unit of work (after contingency).
How this works
mason days = (quantity / output per day) × (1 + contingency%)
helper days = mason days × helpers per mason
calendar days = mason days / masons in crew
labour cost = mason days × rate + helper days × rateWorked example
120 m² brickwork at 8 m²/mason-day, 1 helper, 2 masons, 10% contingency:
- Mason days = 15 × 1.1 = 16.5
- Calendar ≈ 8.3 days with a 2-mason crew
Sources
- Productivity and day rates are local planning inputs — verify with contractor history.
FAQ
How do I estimate mason days for house construction in Nepal?
Divide the work quantity (for example brick wall m² or plaster m²) by a realistic output per mason per day, then add helpers and contingency for weather, curing waits, and material delays. This calculator turns quantity, productivity, crew size, and day rates into man-days, calendar days, and labour cost.
What productivity rates should I use?
Rates vary by skill, site access, storey height, and quality of finish. Use your contractor’s historical output or site trials. Typical planning ranges exist in BOQ notes, but never treat a generic number as a contract commitment without local verification.
How many helpers per mason is normal?
Often one helper per mason for brick and plaster, sometimes more for heavy concrete or multi-trade peaks. Enter the ratio you actually staff. Helper days scale with mason days automatically.
Does contingency replace project schedule float?
Contingency here only inflates labour days for estimating cost and rough duration. Full project schedules also need curing times, inspections, material lead times, and monsoon downtime — use the construction phase budget and payment schedule tools for cashflow phasing.
Are day rates the same in Kathmandu and other districts?
No. Labour rates move by city, season, and skill. Enter today’s local mason and helper rates from quotes. Recalculate when the crew or district changes.