Construction Takeoff Software: A Game Changer For Trade Professionals

Efficiency and accuracy are everything in construction. Whether preparing single bids or managing multiple projects, streamlining processes makes the difference between getting home early on Friday or pulling an all-nighter to meet your deadline. 

Construction takeoff software offers professionals a solution to quickly and accurately quantify a proposal's costs. Like a tape measure or a pencil, takeoff software is an indispensable tool that makes life before it unimaginable.

Now, you have two options: Spend hours going over design drawings and entering data into spreadsheets, or, let construction takeoff software take care of it. The choice is clear, and once you learn more about this revolutionary tool and try takeoff software, you’ll never look back.

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What are Takeoffs?

You’re probably already well aware of construction takeoffs, so you might want to skip this section, or keep reading so we’re on the same page. Basically, takeoffs determine the resources needed for a project based on designs, plans, and blueprints.

This initial step shows you the project’s feasibility and sets the stage for bids and estimates, making accuracy critical. All trades and construction businesses need timely and accurate takeoffs and there are several essential parts of a construction takeoff to understand, including:

• Material quantities needed 
• Cost per material unit
• Total cost per material type
• Project total cost

Traditionally, takeoffs could be a painstaking process, requiring reading all the documents for a project, entering data into a computer, and checking everything twice before arriving at the final numbers. A little headache may come about just thinking about it, especially considering entering a single value in the wrong column could mean losing a bid or losing money on a job.

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Why Use Construction Takeoff Software?

You want to win bids and make tons of money when you work, while spending less time on boring tasks. Takeoff software has many advantages over doing it the old fashioned way, such as:

• Saves time adding up multiple materials over and over again.
• Delivers higher accuracy than a human, leading to better profit margins.
• Reduces costly errors that create waste from manual calculations.
• Easy modification and adjustment as project details change, because they always do.
• Allows collaboration between departments or companies, as everyone can view the same numbers from any Internet connected location.
• Integrates with other business software like accounting or ordering platforms, further aiding in teamwork and meeting your goals.

Don’t be the Blockbuster of the construction industry; see the potential of new technology and soar into the future like Netflix. If you want to stay ahead of the competition and grow your business, adopting takeoff software should be highly considered.

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Comparing Traditional Material Calculations with Construction Takeoff Software

For this example, let's do some renovations and imagine we're working on putting up some interior walls on a project.

Here's the general process involved to build an interior wall:

1. Frame
2. Run utilities
3. Insulate
4. Wallboard
5. Tape
6. Paint
7. Trim

[fs-toc-omit]The Old Way

If you are starting with a plan, you can roll it out, grab your ruler, and start measuring to scale. This can be tedious, constantly doing the scale conversions, and double-checking math for room areas. If plans are not available, a sketch will need to be drawn up.

Looking at materials, we'll need to make a list of all the things we'll need. We could be looking at several different materials for each phase, totaling 15-20 separate line items.

This itemized list may include things like how much lumber, nails, tape, mud, and baseboard, among other things.

[fs-toc-omit]The New Way (Using Takeoff Software)

Let's compare the scenario where we're setup with construction takeoff software.

If a drawing is available, it can be uploaded and you can set the scale and now measurements can be made on the drawing, and not on-site.

If no plans are available, mobile takeoff solutions are available so you can sketch the room out with extreme accuracy, easily pairable with a Bluetooth laser measure.

The big change is that your materials will automatically be calculated by your standard 8.5' wall assembly, which already has all the 15 materials added.

Now, all you need is the length of the wall–that's it! If you're wall is going to be 20 ft long, the software will know that if each foot works out to $30/linear ft, then you'll have an estimate of $600. You can add in labor, or additional options for doors, receptacles, windows, and things of that nature that a client may want to add to a wall.

The output will be the complete material list and cost, all generated from a linear foot input.

[fs-toc-omit]The Big Question With Takeoffs

The big question is how you get to that number quickly (linear feet, area, etc) when you're dealing with a whole house, or building, or property. The solution starts with a drawing and that's where ArcSite really shines. You can be on a job site and simply draw the floor plan and get accurate measurements with a laser measure that integrates right with the app. In a matter of minutes, you can draw an entire room and deliver an accurate estimate.

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How Do I Use Construction Takeoff Software?

Takeoff software has gotten unbelievably easy to use. In fact, construction takeoff software is intuitive and anyone can figure it out especially with the latest tablet-based apps from ArcSite. With your fingertips, you can draw just about anything produce estimates proposals and takeoffs.

Also, some systems, like ArcSite, offer excellent support and training to make sure you get the most out of your takeoff software. Next, we'll dive into the steps to create a takeoffs using ArcSite.

[fs-toc-omit]Enter Your Project & Assemblies

Before anything, create a file for your project and define the relevant assemblies for each area. For example, you might have categories like “Light Fixture,” “Concrete Flooring,” or “Window.”

Establishing clear categories first helps organize your final counts, as everything will be grouped under the assemblies you’ve assigned. The organization system makes your estimation process more efficient and helps you focus on individual segments.

[fs-toc-omit]Create Drawings or Site Plans

Digital floor plans, section drawings, electrical plans, plumbing plans, and more can be created in ArcSite. It will categorize the drawings, making them ready to view and start analyzing. 

[fs-toc-omit]Define Shapes or Symbols

You’ll define each symbol to be counted on your documents. The software reads the entire plan and picks out what you want to count, then gives you a total.

If your trade uses weird shapes or symbols, they be easily added to ArcSite, you can create unique, industry-specific shapes, ensuring clear, consistent, and quick visual communication.

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[fs-toc-omit]Measure Features

Forget about pulling out your ruler or compass to lengths in your drawings, the measure tool calculates lengths and areas for you. It offers several measurement options, including:

• Measure linear runs (for wiring, conduit, pipes, etc.)
• Measure areas (for floors, walls, and room dimensions)
• Manually add measurements (In case something is missing from the drawing)

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[fs-toc-omit]View Results, Make Changes, & Collaborate

The construction takeoff software displays easy-to-read counts of each material and other data in the plans. Making changes is simple and fast, an important feature, because project materials and requirements can often change.

The platform allows you to share across devices and collaborate in multiple locations. For example, someone on-site can see that a double window will capture the view better than a single, make the change on the plan, and everyone will instantly see the new design.

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[fs-toc-omit]Create Estimates, Win Bids

Taking it a step further, ArcSite software instantly prepares a profit-making estimate, including good, better, and best pricing options. Also, the software integrates your branding, colors, logo, and marketing materials to create professional proposals that win top jobs.

Who Uses Takeoff Software?

Takeoff software is widely used by construction managers, specialty contractors, and estimators. Anyone involved in bidding, estimating, or preparing proposals for projects can use it, including:

• General contractors
• Electricians 
• Plumbers 
• HVAC professionals
• Roofers
• Drywallers
• Concrete finishers
• Synthetic turf and lawn installers
• Gutter installers
• Flooring installers
• Other construction businesses

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Key Features of Takeoff Software

Construction takeoff software improves the planning and execution of your project with features you’ll love. Some of the most useful are:

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[fs-toc-omit]Mobile On-Site Functionality

Construction is a hands on business, and takeoff software allows you to modify designs, and see updated results in the field. Most takeoff software works best on desktop computers, with ArcSite standing out for its mobile-first design, offering native apps to perform takeoffs directly from the job site. 

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[fs-toc-omit]Drawing Tools

Create professional drawings with CAD precision, using only your finger and tablet. Don’t have drawing skills? No problem! Annotate photos or sketches. Make arrows or add text boxes to help your team understand what needs to happen.

[fs-toc-omit]Photo Markup & Photo Notes in Drawings

Add visual context by snapping images and marking them up on-site. ArcSite’s photo tool places images precisely within your drawings, allowing easy visualization of the project’s goals.

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[fs-toc-omit]Payments & Financing

Send estimates for approval electronically, sign documents, and accept payments securely. ArcSite provides customer financing options, adding flexibility for clients.

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[fs-toc-omit]Advanced Data-Collection

Listen to your clients needs, create custom forms, enter data, and see results on-site. No more deciphering quickly jotted notes back at the office, sending a revised proposal to the client, then waiting for their response!

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[fs-toc-omit]Integration with Other Tools

Tired of moving data from one application to another? ArcSite integrates with many other digital construction business tools, including:

• Bosch Laser Measures
• JobNimbus
• Jobber
• LeadTrack
• Leica
• Moasure
• Open API
• Quickbooks
• Salesforce
• SolutionView
• True
• Wisetack
• Zapier
• Zoho CRM
• improveit 360
• mySalesman

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Tasks Handled by Construction Takeoff Software

Do you ever find yourself doing tasks over and over again, wishing you could just skip to the end? Takeoff software for construction does exactly that, streamlining many processes, such as:

• Measuring floor areas to accurately price required materials
• Counting studs, joists, and rafters
• Counting electrical switches and measuring cable lengths
• Measuring air conditioning lines or ducts
• Counting fire alarm systems and verifying coverage radius to ensure full floor protection
• Counting security alarm systems and checking entry point coverage
• Measuring wall and ceiling lengths for precise painting and decorating cost estimates
• And many more!

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For construction businesses big and small, takeoff software is a labor saver because it lowers the skill level required to complete these critical yet repetitive tasks. In some cases, it can reduce staffing requirements, allowing you to focus resources to satisfy clients.

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How to Choose the Right Construction Takeoff Software

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There are several takeoff softwares to choose from, each with advantages. When selecting the best construction takeoff software, several factors need your consideration, including:

• Ease of Use: Look for software with an intuitive interface and easy-to-follow workflows.
• Integration Capabilities: Ensure it integrates with your existing tools, such as project management or accounting software.
• Customer Support and Training: Does the provider offer training resources and responsive customer support?
• Pricing: Take into account the subscription cost and the licensing model. Compare monthly subscriptions vs. one-time fees to find the best fit for your business.

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[fs-toc-omit]Construction Takeoff Software Options

If you’ve been searching for a takeoff software, you’re probably already being bombarded with targeted ads and you might be familiar with a few. Three of the top choices are:

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ArcSite

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Overview:

A mobile-first platform, perfect for on-the-go contractors offering excellent software support. It integrates with most devices, offering comprehensive features for estimating, proposals, and financing options.

Pricing:

Monthly pricing plans start at $99. Also, a 14-day free trial lets you see if the software fits your needs. Get a free demo and trial.

Who it’s for:

ArcSite is designed for almost any construction-related field, including basement waterproofing, concrete installation, electrical, flooring, fencing installation, foundation repair, gutters, pest control, security inspection, and synthetic turf/lawn installation.

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[fs-toc-omit]Bluebeam

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Overview:

This is a general construction software with takeoff capabilities. Bluebeam offers desktop and cloud collaboration to connect teams in various locations.

Pricing:

They offer yearly billing, starting at a relatively higher price of $260 per user, with their free trial lasting 14 days. The annual cost is $440 per user to access all their features.

Who it’s for:

Bluebeam is aimed at larger firms, including oil and gas, public sector, and enterprise.

[fs-toc-omit]PlanSwift

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Overview:

A simple, straightforward construction takeoff software. It features customizable assemblies and flexible integrations. 

Pricing:

They offer an annual subscription for $1,749 per subscription, including support and two hours of training. Their free trial also lasts 14 days.

Who it’s for:

PlanSwift markets its products to trades businesses, including plumbers, electricians, framers, and more.

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[fs-toc-omit]

The Tool Of The Future

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In construction’s competitive landscape, using the most advanced tools helps you stay ahead. Construction takeoff software is an essential technology for modern contractors, making it easier to manage planning, estimates, and proposals. 

As one of the leading solutions for construction professionals, ArcSite provides unmatched mobile functionality, seamless integration with other tools, and an intuitive platform that helps contractors succeed in an evolving industry. Schedule a demo now to witness the power that awaits your business!

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Learn more about ArcSite's construction takeoff software and how it can help scale your business.