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What are labour data files and how do they work?

Learn about the different labour data files that store pay rates, pricing information, and configuration settings in Roof Wizard.

Updated yesterday

Roof Wizard uses several data files to store labour rates, pricing information, and configuration settings. Understanding these files helps you manage your pay rate setup and troubleshoot any pricing issues.


🧾 Labour Data Files Overview

Each file serves a specific purpose in storing different types of labour and pricing data:

File Name

Purpose

File Type

Editable

LabourFile.dat

Defines tile labour optional items and special pay categories

Text file (.dat)

Yes - in text editor

Labour.bin

Legacy file - no longer used (redundant)

Binary (.bin)

No - obsolete

Labour_V6.bin

Stores default variables like flashing allowances and blocking rounding

Binary (.bin)

No - software only

NettRates.csv

Contains nett cost pricing per square metre/linear metre/square foot

CSV (.csv)

Software only


πŸ”§ Individual File Details

LabourFile.dat

This text file defines tile labour optional items and special pay categories that suit your specific work requirements.

Key features:

  • Created outside Roof Wizard using text editors like Notepad or Wordpad

  • Header describes available options

  • Used to add specific pay categories or special charging conditions

  • Customisable to match your business workflow

Labour.bin (Redundant)

This legacy file previously contained default variables set within the software. It is no longer used and has been replaced by Labour_V6.bin.

Labour_V6.bin

This binary file stores many default variables that are configured from within Roof Wizard.

Contains settings for:

  • Default flashing allowances

  • Blocking rounding rules

  • Other system configuration variables

Important: This is a binary file that can only be read by Roof Wizard. You cannot open or edit it in text editors like Notepad or spreadsheet programs like Excel.
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NettRates.csv

This file contains pricing information for customers who use nett cost pricing based on area or length measurements.

Pricing units supported:

  • $ per Square Metre

  • $ per Linear Metre

  • $ per Square Foot

  • $ per Foot

πŸ›  How to Edit NettRates.csv

Menu path: Set-Up > Set Up Pay Rates > Nett Pay Rates

While NettRates.csv is technically a CSV file, it uses a special format that is not easily edited in Excel or text editors. Always edit this file through Roof Wizard's interface.

  1. Navigate to Set-Up > Set Up Pay Rates > Nett Pay Rates

  2. Make your pricing changes within the software

  3. Save your changes


πŸ’‘ Saving Multiple Rate Variations

For NettRates.csv, you can save multiple variations for different situations or clients:

  1. Configure your rates in Nett Pay Rates

  2. Save with a specific name for the situation or client

  3. The file saves with your chosen name and a .NR6 extension

  4. The default file remains as NettRates.csv


⚠️ Important Considerations

  • Binary files: Labour_V6.bin can only be modified through Roof Wizard - never attempt to edit it manually

  • Backup: Always backup your data files before making significant changes

  • Text files: Only LabourFile.dat should be edited outside the software

  • CSV editing: Use Roof Wizard's interface for NettRates.csv, not Excel or text editors


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