The pattern: Projects swing over hours because (a) time isn’t logged consistently, (b) hours aren’t categorized, and (c) estimating doesn’t reflect reality across your actual team (not just your fastest tech).   

First fix: track the truth.

• Require clock-in/out on the right project and phase (pre-wire, trim/“dirty trim,” install, programming, lighting, shades).   
• Clean up missed punches weekly; the PM or install manager owns accuracy.

Second fix: review, then reset.

• Run a post-project every time: where did hours go over/under and why? Adjust the labor assumptions immediately for future bids. 
• Calibrate by the team you actually have—not by your speed demon. Build hours around the median tech, not Troy.

A reliable starting point: On full-scope CI proposals (“soup to nuts”), a ~35% labor mix (of total proposal) tends to land at a safe, deliverable number. If you still miss, you’ve got efficiency and planning problems to solve. 

Bonus: Use field feedback to re-price repeat offenders (e.g., frames, panels, keypads) so estimates match reality next time. 

Nail labor and the job makes money. You can’t control every project variable, but you can control how you estimate, track, and review labor. Do it consistently and you’ll uncover the leaks draining your profit. Ignore it, and you’ll keep blaming “bad jobs” when it’s really bad data.

Need help in dialing in labor on every job? Schedule a Free Clarity Call and we will help you stop leaving margin on the table.

Stay VITAL,

Matt & the team