A gas station and convenience store project combines fuel-system infrastructure with retail construction. You need an estimate that treats the UST pit, canopy steel, dispenser piping, and C-store fit-out as one coordinated scope, not separate trade packages that leave gaps at the island. As a gas station estimating company, we take off your drawings by CSI MasterFormat division, so your bid package shows the concrete, steel, equipment, and electrical quantities that drive the fuel side and the retail side together. Whether you are a general contractor bidding a new build, a subcontractor pricing the canopy, or an owner checking a developer's budget, the takeoff follows the same sequence: site demolition, UST excavation, containment, canopy, dispensers, building shell, and interior fit-out.
- Deliverable
- Excel estimate + marked-up PDF plans
- Organized by
- CSI MasterFormat section
- Turnaround
- 24–48 hours for most projects
- Pricing
- ZIP-code-adjusted material and labor pricing
- Software
- Bluebeam Revu, PlanSwift, RSMeans data
We measure excavation volume from the site plan, count dispensers and sumps from the fuel isometric, and take off canopy steel from the framing drawings. For the C-store, we measure partitions, ceilings, refrigeration, and MEP rough-in from the architectural and MEP sheets. Underground storage tanks, spill buckets, dispenser sumps, and tank monitoring devices are taken off by count and by connection; vapor recovery and Stage II piping are measured in linear feet from the fuel isometric. The LED price sign, car wash equipment, air compressor, and vacuum stations are listed as separate line items so they do not disappear into a general conditions allowance. We work in Bluebeam Revu and PlanSwift for on-screen takeoff, and price with ZIP-code-adjusted material and labor from RSMeans data.
Our gas station quantity takeoff is organized by CSI division, including Division 2 sitework, Division 5 metals, Division 8 openings, Division 9 finishes, and Division 33 utilities. We also break out Division 10 specialties and Division 11 equipment for the retail side, and Division 32 exterior improvements for the concrete apron, dumpster enclosure, and canopy columns. Product piping, shear valve locations, and ASTI components are taken off from the fuel isometric and details. For the point of sale system and LED canopy lighting, we list equipment and rough-in as separate line items. This line item takeoff approach means your bid package shows what is furnished, what is installed, and what is excluded.
Send plans and specs and we return an Excel workbook and PDF marked with our takeoff, typically within 24–48 hours. For projects with a public fueling component or a parking deck, see our Public Works & Infrastructure Estimating and Parking Structure Estimating pages. If your project is a gym or fitness center, we also cover that under Gym & Fitness Center Estimating.
What our gas station quantity takeoff and C-store takeoff covers
We measure from the site plan, canopy framing drawings, fuel-system schematics, and architectural sheets. The takeoff follows CSI MasterFormat divisions so you can drop quantities into your bid form or estimating software. We include the fuel-side items that generic commercial estimates miss and the retail-side items that fuel contractors often exclude.
Site demolition
existing slab, canopy, islands, and UST removal (02 41 00)
Excavation and backfill for UST pit
Excavation and backfill for UST pit, piping trenches, and canopy footings (31 23 00)
Cast-in-place concrete
UST hold-down slab, islands, canopy piers, building slab (03 30 00)
Structural steel canopy columns
Structural steel canopy columns, beams, joists, and connection details (05 12 00)
Canopy soffit framing
Canopy soffit framing, metal panel or FRP finish, and edge trim (05 50 00 / 07 40 00)
UST tank sets
UST tank sets, secondary containment, interstitial monitoring, and vent piping (11 11 00 / 33 46 00)
Fuel dispensing piping
Fuel dispensing piping, containment sumps, and dispenser connections (11 11 00 / 22 11 00)
Fuel dispensers
Fuel dispensers, card readers, and point-of-sale integration (11 11 00)
What every gas station & c-store estimating takeoff includes
- Site demolition: existing slab, canopy, islands, and UST removal (02 41 00)
- Excavation and backfill for UST pit, piping trenches, and canopy footings (31 23 00)
- Cast-in-place concrete: UST hold-down slab, islands, canopy piers, building slab (03 30 00)
- Structural steel canopy columns, beams, joists, and connection details (05 12 00)
- Canopy soffit framing, metal panel or FRP finish, and edge trim (05 50 00 / 07 40 00)
- UST tank sets, secondary containment, interstitial monitoring, and vent piping (11 11 00 / 33 46 00)
- Fuel dispensing piping, containment sumps, and dispenser connections (11 11 00 / 22 11 00)
- Fuel dispensers, card readers, and point-of-sale integration (11 11 00)
- C-store interior partitions, ceilings, and finishes (09 21 00 / 09 51 00 / 09 30 00)
- C-store refrigeration, walk-in coolers, and foodservice equipment (11 40 00 / 11 41 00)
- HVAC: rooftop units, make-up air, and exhaust for foodservice (23 03 00 / 23 31 00)
- Electrical: service, panelboards, dispenser power, canopy lighting, and site lighting (26 24 00 / 26 56 00)
How our gas station estimator takes off a fuel and retail site
- Review site and fuel plansWe start with the site plan, grading, and fuel-system schematic. We identify the UST pit location, tank sizes, dispenser islands, canopy footprint, and building envelope. We check the piping route for slope and vent riser locations, and we note any existing utilities that affect excavation. We also verify the tank schedule against the site plan to catch capacity or quantity mismatches early.
- Measure earthwork and concreteUsing the site plan, we calculate excavation volume for the UST pit, piping trenches, and canopy footings. We measure the hold-down slab, dispenser islands, and building slab from the foundation plan. We apply a waste factor to concrete and note rebar laps and dowels separately. We also check for dewatering requirements and note them as a separate line item if the geotechnical report indicates a high water table.
- Take off canopy steel and soffitWe measure structural steel columns, beams, and joists from the canopy framing drawings. We count connection plates, base plates, and anchor bolts. For the soffit, we measure framing members and panel area, including edge trim and wind uplift clips shown in the details. We cross-check the architectural soffit finish against the structural framing to ensure no gaps in the takeoff.
- Quantity fuel equipment and pipingWe count dispensers, submersible pumps, and tank gauges from the fuel-system layout. We measure fuel piping by diameter and material from the isometric, including containment sumps and breakaway fittings. We list secondary containment and interstitial monitoring components as separate line items. We also verify that the piping material matches the spec, since fiberglass and flexible piping have different labor units.
- Measure C-store interior and MEPFrom the architectural and MEP sheets, we measure partitions, ceilings, and finishes. We count refrigeration units, walk-in cooler panels, and foodservice equipment. For HVAC and electrical, we measure ductwork, diffusers, panelboards, and lighting runs, noting canopy and site lighting separately. We also check the equipment schedule against the floor plan to ensure all foodservice equipment is accounted for in the MEP rough-in.
- Assemble CSI-organized estimateWe compile all quantities into an Excel workbook organized by CSI MasterFormat division. Each line item includes a reference to the drawing sheet and spec section. We mark up the plan set with our takeoff highlights so you can trace every quantity back to the source. We also provide a summary sheet with total quantities by division for quick bid review.
What we need from you
- Site planShows UST location, canopy footprint, dispenser islands, and building pad. Needed for earthwork and concrete takeoff.
- Fuel system drawingsPiping isometrics, tank schedule, and dispenser layout. Required for equipment counts and piping lengths.
- Canopy framing plansStructural steel sizes, soffit framing, and connection details. Used for steel tonnage and soffit area.
- Architectural and MEP sheetsFloor plans, elevations, and MEP layouts for the C-store. Needed for interior finishes and MEP quantities.
- SpecificationsProject manual with CSI sections. Helps us match materials and identify scope gaps.
- Bid form or estimate formatIf you have a preferred format, send it. We will organize our takeoff to match your bid structure.
Sample takeoff format
Below is a sample of how we present line items in the Excel workbook. Each row references the drawing sheet and spec section for traceability.
| Section | Line item | Qty | Unit | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 02 41 00 | Demolish existing concrete slab 6" thick | 2,400 | SF | C-101 |
| 31 23 00 | Excavation for UST pit, 12' × 30' × 10' deep | 133 | CY | C-102 |
| 03 30 00 | UST hold-down slab, 12" thick, 4,000 psi | 18,400 | SF | S-201 |
| 05 12 00 | Canopy column W12×40, 16' tall | 8 | EA | S-301 |
| 11 11 00 | Fuel dispenser, 8-hose, with card reader | 6 | EA | F-101 |
| 26 56 00 | Canopy LED light fixture, 150W | 24 | EA | E-401 |
| 03 30 00 | Dispenser island concrete, 10" thick, 3,000 psi | 1,250 | SF | S-202 |
| 05 50 00 | Canopy soffit framing, 16 ga. metal studs | 3,200 | SF | S-302 |
| 11 11 00 | Submersible pump, 3/4 HP, turbine | 4 | EA | F-102 |
| 22 11 00 | Fuel piping, 2" dia., double-wall fiberglass | 480 | LF | F-103 |
| 26 24 00 | Panelboard, 400A, 120/208V, 3-phase | 1 | EA | E-402 |
| 23 31 00 | Rooftop unit, 10-ton, gas heat | 2 | EA | M-401 |
Units of measure we use
Every quantity is reported in the unit that matches the trade and the way it is priced. Below are the units you will see in our takeoff, with the method behind each one.
| Item | Unit | How it's measured |
|---|---|---|
| Excavation for UST pit | CY | Length × width × depth from plan dimensions, divided by 27 |
| Canopy soffit area | SF | Plan area of canopy footprint, measured to outside of fascia |
| Fuel piping | LF | Centerline length from dispenser to tank, including vertical risers |
| Dispensers | EA | Count from fuel-system layout, including spare positions |
| Structural steel | TON | Member weight from shape tables, plus connection allowance |
| Tank capacity | GAL | Nameplate volume from spec, used for containment sizing checks |
| Containment sumps | EA | Count from fuel-system isometric, including under-dispenser and tank-top sumps |
| Canopy lighting fixtures | EA | Count from lighting plan, including spare positions and emergency fixtures |
| Concrete formwork | SF | Contact area of forms for footings, piers, and slabs, measured from details |
| Reinforcing steel | LB | Bar length × unit weight from CRSI tables, including laps and dowels |
| Ductwork | LB | Pounds of sheet metal from SMACNA tables, based on duct size and gauge |
| Electrical conduit | LF | Centerline length from panel to device, including vertical drops |
Worked example: UST pit excavation and backfill takeoff
This example shows how we take off excavation for a single underground storage tank (UST) pit. Dimensions are illustrative and do not represent a specific project. The method follows CSI Division 31 23 00.
Given: A rectangular pit for one 10,000-gallon tank. Pit dimensions: 12 ft wide × 30 ft long × 10 ft deep. Soil is common earth. The tank is set on a 6-inch sand bed, and the pit is backfilled with native soil compacted in 8-inch lifts. A 6-inch concrete hold-down slab covers the pit after tank installation.
Step 1 – Calculate pit volume.
Volume = 12 ft × 30 ft × 10 ft = 3,600 cubic feet (CF).
Convert to cubic yards (CY): 3,600 CF ÷ 27 CF/CY = 133.33 CY.
We round to 133 CY for excavation.
Step 2 – Deduct tank displacement.
A 10,000-gallon tank has an approximate volume of 1,337 CF (10,000 gal ÷ 7.48 gal/CF).
Tank volume in CY: 1,337 CF ÷ 27 = 49.52 CY.
Net excavation volume = 133.33 CY – 49.52 CY = 83.81 CY.
We use 84 CY as the net excavation quantity.
Step 3 – Add sand bedding.
Bedding area = 12 ft × 30 ft = 360 SF.
Bedding thickness = 6 inches = 0.5 ft.
Volume = 360 SF × 0.5 ft = 180 CF.
Convert to CY: 180 CF ÷ 27 = 6.67 CY.
We round to 7 CY.
Step 4 – Calculate backfill.
Backfill volume = net excavation volume – sand bedding volume = 84 CY – 7 CY = 77 CY.
We apply a 15% waste/compaction factor: 77 CY × 1.15 = 88.55 CY.
We round to 89 CY of backfill.
Step 5 – Concrete hold-down slab.
Slab area = 12 ft × 30 ft = 360 SF.
Thickness = 6 inches = 0.5 ft.
Volume = 360 SF × 0.5 ft = 180 CF.
Convert to CY: 180 CF ÷ 27 = 6.67 CY.
Add 5% waste: 6.67 CY × 1.05 = 7.00 CY.
We round to 7 CY.
Step 6 – Summary of quantities.
- Excavation (net): 84 CY
- Sand bedding: 7 CY
- Backfill (compacted): 89 CY
- Concrete slab: 7 CY
These quantities are then priced using ZIP-code-adjusted material and labor rates. Note that this example does not include dewatering, shoring, or disposal of contaminated soil, which would be added as separate line items if required. The takeoff is presented in Excel with references to the site plan and specifications.
What drives gas station cost estimating and C-store cost
Relative impact on a typical estimate for this trade, based on estimator judgment. Select a bar for details.
UST containment
Fiberglass tanks with secondary containment and interstitial monitoring cost more than single-wall steel. The number of tanks, their capacity, and whether they are compartmentalized drive both material and excavation volume. Confirm local regulations for tank testing and leak detection. The presence of a double-wall tank also increases the number of sumps and monitoring sensors, which adds electrical and plumbing scope.
Fiberglass tanks with secondary containment and interstitial monitoring cost more than single-wall steel. The number of tanks, their capacity, and whether they are compartmentalized drive both material and excavation volume. Confirm local regulations for tank testing and leak detection. The presence of a double-wall tank also increases the number of sumps and monitoring sensors, which adds electrical and plumbing scope.
A larger canopy increases structural steel tonnage, soffit area, and lighting fixture count. Height affects column size and foundation depth. Wind uplift requirements can add clips and heavier framing, especially in coastal areas. The canopy footprint also determines the extent of the concrete slab and the number of dispenser islands that fit underneath, which in turn affects piping lengths and electrical runs.
Each dispenser position requires a concrete island, bollards, piping, and electrical connections. Higher-flow dispensers may need larger piping and submersible pumps. Card readers and POS integration add electrical and data scope. The number of hoses per dispenser also affects the size of the dispenser and the required clearance between islands, which can impact the overall site layout.
A basic convenience store with shelving and a few coolers costs less than one with a full foodservice kitchen, walk-in freezer, and grease interceptor. Flooring choice—quarry tile versus epoxy—affects both material and labor. The extent of refrigeration and foodservice equipment also drives the electrical service size and the HVAC load, which can lead to larger rooftop units and more ductwork.
High water table or contaminated soil increases excavation and disposal costs. Rock excavation requires specialized equipment. Existing utilities may need relocation. These conditions are often discovered during UST removal. A geotechnical report can help anticipate these costs, but allowances are still recommended for unforeseen conditions, especially in older urban sites where undocumented utilities are common.
Local amendments to the IBC and IRC, as well as NFPA 30A for fuel dispensing, can add requirements for fire suppression, emergency shut-off, and signage. Some jurisdictions require additional containment or monitoring beyond the model codes. Confirm the adopted code edition with the local building department. These requirements can affect both the fuel system and the building construction, so they should be priced early.
The number and type of light fixtures, along with photocell controls and contactor panels, affect the electrical scope. LED fixtures may have a higher first cost but lower energy use. The lighting plan also determines the conduit and wire runs, which can be significant if the canopy is large or if the site lighting extends to the property line. Controls may require additional wiring and programming.
Common scope gaps we catch
Gas station projects have recurring gaps between fuel-system and building trades. We review the documents specifically for these items and flag them in our estimate.
- UST closure and removal permits, soil testing, and disposal of contaminated soil. These are often excluded from both demolition and earthwork scopes. We list them as separate line items with allowances.
- Secondary containment sumps, interstitial monitoring, and leak detection wiring. These appear on the fuel schematic but are missed in electrical takeoff. We cross-check the fuel and electrical sheets.
- Canopy soffit framing, wind uplift clips, and panel edge trim. The architectural drawings show the finish, but the structural details carry the framing. We measure both.
- Dispenser island bollards, breakaway fittings, and emergency shut-off valves. These are small items that add up. We count them from the fuel layout and details.
- Fuel piping slope, vent risers, and tank gauge wiring. The isometric shows the route, but the slope and vent locations are in the specs. We read both to get accurate lengths.
- C-store walk-in cooler refrigeration piping and remote condenser pads. The equipment schedule lists the coolers, but the piping and pads are on the MEP sheets. We measure them separately.
- Foodservice hood, make-up air, and grease interceptor. These are often excluded from base HVAC and plumbing. We include them when the equipment schedule shows foodservice.
- Canopy and site lighting photocell controls and contactor panels. The lighting plan shows fixtures, but the controls are on the electrical riser. We include them in Division 26.
- ADA path of travel from parking to entry, including curb ramps and signage. This is a common miss in site work. We measure ramps and signs from the site plan.
- Fuel island and canopy grounding and bonding per NFPA 70 and NFPA 30A. This is a code requirement often overlooked. We include grounding conductors and connections.
- Restroom plumbing rough-in, floor drains, and backflow preventers. These are in the plumbing plans but sometimes omitted from tenant fit-out scopes. We count fixtures and drains.
- Signage: monument, canopy fascia, price sign, and ADA parking. Signage is often owner-furnished, but the structural and electrical provisions are contractor scope. We list them as separate items.
Material options and cost drivers
Material selection affects both first cost and installation labor. The table below compares common options for key components.
| Component | Option A | Option B | Option C | Cost driver notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canopy soffit | Aluminum panel | FRP panel | Steel with coating | Aluminum: light, corrosion-resistant, higher material cost. FRP: lower cost, less durable. Steel: heavy, requires coating, moderate cost. |
| UST material | Fiberglass | Steel | Composite | Fiberglass: corrosion-resistant, common for fuel. Steel: lower first cost, requires cathodic protection. Composite: high cost, best corrosion resistance. |
| Dispenser piping | Flexible | Rigid fiberglass | Steel | Flexible: easy to install, less joints, moderate cost. Fiberglass: rigid, requires more fittings, higher labor. Steel: heavy, requires coating, high labor. |
| C-store flooring | Quarry tile | Epoxy | Polished concrete | Quarry tile: durable, high material and labor. Epoxy: smooth, moderate cost, requires curing. Polished concrete: low maintenance, lower cost, limited design. |
| Fuel island concrete | Reinforced concrete | Asphalt | Precast concrete | Reinforced concrete: durable, requires formwork, moderate cost. Asphalt: lower cost, less durable, requires sealcoating. Precast: fast installation, higher material cost, limited customization. |
Codes and standards that affect petroleum facility estimating
Model codes
Fuel dispensing and storage are governed by NFPA 30A (Automotive and Marine Service Station Code) and NFPA 30 (Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code). These set requirements for tank containment, piping, venting, and emergency shut-off. The International Building Code (IBC) and International Fire Code (IFC) classify motor fuel-dispensing facilities and set construction type, fire separation, and egress. The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) affects envelope, lighting, and HVAC efficiency. The NEC (NFPA 70) covers electrical installations, including grounding and bonding of fuel islands. The IPC or UPC applies to plumbing and backflow prevention. These codes change quantities: for example, secondary containment and interstitial monitoring add sumps, sensors, and wiring; emergency shut-off requires additional valves and signage; energy code may require higher-efficiency lighting and HVAC. Confirm the adopted editions with the local building department.
Industry standards
Estimators reference standards that define materials and test methods. For concrete, ACI 318 and ACI 301 govern mix design and placement. ASTM standards cover steel (A992, A36), piping (A53, D2996 for fiberglass), and tank testing (E1526 for leak detection). SMACNA standards apply to ductwork fabrication. For canopy soffit, ASTM E84 and E136 cover fire ratings. These standards affect material specifications and can change cost if a higher grade or additional testing is required. For example, specifying ASTM D2996 fiberglass piping may limit suppliers and increase lead time.
Specification sections
CSI MasterFormat sections that directly affect cost include: 02 41 00 Demolition (UST removal and disposal), 31 23 00 Excavation and Fill (soil handling and backfill), 03 30 00 Cast-in-Place Concrete (slabs and foundations), 05 12 00 Structural Steel (canopy framing), 11 11 00 Fuel Dispensing Equipment (dispensers, pumps, tanks), 22 11 00 Piping (fuel and plumbing), 26 24 00 Switchboards (electrical service), 26 56 00 Exterior Lighting (canopy and site), and 33 46 00 Subdrainage (monitoring wells). Each section's requirements—such as testing, coatings, or manufacturer qualifications—can add line items.
Local amendments
Local jurisdictions adopt and amend model codes on their own schedules. For example, some states require double-wall tanks and continuous monitoring, while others allow single-wall with periodic testing. Environmental regulations for USTs vary by state; some require additional containment or financial responsibility. Fire codes may have specific requirements for canopy clearance, signage, and emergency shut-off. Because these amendments change scope, you must confirm the adopted code edition and any local amendments with the local building department before finalizing your bid.
Who uses our gas station estimate for contractors
General contractors
You need a complete bid package that covers both fuel and retail scopes. Our CSI-organized takeoff lets you plug quantities into your estimate and see where subcontractor quotes may have gaps.
Subcontractors
If you are bidding the canopy, concrete, or electrical package, you need accurate quantities for your scope. We provide line items with drawing references so you can verify and adjust for your labor and material pricing.
Owners and developers
You want a budget check before committing to a design. Our estimate highlights cost drivers like UST containment and canopy size, so you can make informed decisions during design development.
Architects and engineers
You need a cost check on your design to keep it within budget. Our takeoff identifies scope gaps and code-driven items like grounding and ADA that affect cost.