ASTM E917

ASTM E917 is the ASTM standard titled Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems. It provides a structured way to evaluate costs over time rather than only initial price, helping buyers, owners, and planners compare alternatives more consistently. This makes ASTM E917 useful when long-term operating, maintenance, and replacement costs matter as much as upfront investment. For building decisions, that perspective can support better value analysis and more informed selection of systems and materials.

What is ASTM E917?

ASTM E917 is a practice focused on measuring life-cycle costs for buildings and building systems. In practical terms, it supports a repeatable approach for evaluating total cost performance across the useful life of a facility or system, not just the purchase cost. The standard is commonly used as a technical reference when comparing design options, budgeting future expenses, or supporting cost-based decision-making. ASTM E917 helps bring consistency to life-cycle cost analysis so results are easier to review and compare.

Where is ASTM E917 used?

This ASTM standard is typically used in building planning, facilities management, design review, and procurement activities where long-term cost performance is important. It is especially relevant for building systems and related project decisions that require a structured cost comparison over time. ASTM E917 may also support internal evaluation workflows for owners, engineers, and consultants who need a common method for assessing alternatives. Its value is highest when decision-makers want a clearer view of total ownership cost.

Why is ASTM E917 important?

ASTM E917 matters because it helps reduce inconsistency in life-cycle cost evaluation. Using a recognized ASTM practice can improve the reliability of comparisons between building options, support more transparent procurement decisions, and strengthen documentation for cost-based analysis. It also helps organizations account for costs that occur after installation, which can reduce the risk of choosing an option that appears economical at first but performs poorly over time. For many projects, that long-term perspective is essential.

• Life-cycle cost measurement practice
• Buildings and building systems focus
• Supports cost comparison over time
• Useful for planning and procurement
• Helps evaluate total ownership cost