The complete guide to estimating from a framing takeoff
Rising costs demand an accurate framing takeoff. Learn the basics and how estimating software can help.
Resources
Featured Blogs
How you estimate and conduct your project management can affect the accuracy of the budget for construction costs and that budget can reveal as early as possible if the job will deliver a satisfactory result for the homeowner and turn a profit for you, the builder.
Here, we will look at why proposals are important, what they should include, and how to create a construction proposal that wins you bids.
Each cost estimation has a specific purpose in the building process. Here, we will explain how to estimate construction costs so you can win jobs, maintain your profit margin and improve your business' reputation.
Soft costs typically are important to include in project budgets because they can make up 25 – 50% of the total project budget. Quantifying them early in the project is also important so you can calculate your final project delivery return on investment.
Latest Blogs
Learn how a proper punch list is key to concluding any successful home construction project.
Learn how the construction RFI
helps home builders avoid costly errors.
Learn how to manage rising building costs using modern software for accurate cost estimating.
Learn how a precise quote sets the stage for a smoothly run project that helps grow your business.
Explore the significance of to-do lists for home construction teams and how digital software makes them more useful.
Change orders are standard in the home construction industry. Learn how construction management software makes writing change orders easier.
Estimating
Evolution of the construction bid template
Learn the value of providing a formal, professional proposal and how digital bid templates make writing proposals easier.
How improving AI tech avoids common construction estimating mistakes
Learn how AI tech can serve as a digital assistant to speed up the entire process of writing estimates and winning more business.
How Buildxact unlocks efficiency and precision
Learn how Buildxact catalogs and item assemblies form a powerful duo that streamlines estimating.
Five biggest pricing mistakes to avoid
Many builders and contractors “wing it” when pricing. Don’t compromise your profits. Avoid these mistakes.
Use estimating apps for a more productive construction business
Time is money — you could easily waste too much of it behind the desk. Learn how construction estimating apps make you more efficient.
Residential contractors access first real-time pricing data tool with 1build and Buildxact partnership
1build offers more than 68 million data points so Buildxact customers across the U.S. can access accurate data within a comprehensive estimation tool.
How to estimate new home construction costs with Buildxact
With Buildxact software, you establish a high-level of customer service and demonstrate you can finish a home on time and on budget.
How to build a quick, accurate construction bid
Bidding is one of the most challenging and time-consuming parts of a builder’s job. Find out how Buildxact software gets it right, while saving time.
Takeoffs
Streamline project tracking with construction management software
Tracking building projects is a challenge. Keep on top of all the moving parts with construction management software, an essential tool for the custom home construction businesses.
How remodelers stay competitive in unpredictable times
Successful home construction pros stay competitive by mastering the art of bidding to bring in their share of work.
The complete guide to estimating from a framing takeoff
Rising costs demand an accurate framing takeoff. Learn the basics and how estimating software can help.
Types of construction estimates you need to know
How you estimate and conduct your project management can affect the accuracy of the budget for construction costs and that budget can reveal as early as possible if the job will deliver a satisfactory result for the homeowner and turn a profit for you, the builder.
How to do construction takeoff estimating
Here is why construction takeoffs are used to create a cost estimate and why it is an essential part of any construction project.
How to estimate construction costs – a complete guide
Each cost estimation has a specific purpose in the building process. Here, we will explain how to estimate construction costs so you can win jobs, maintain your profit margin and improve your business’ reputation.
What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done?
In construction, a quantity takeoff is a list of all the physical materials necessary to complete a job and their costs. It does not consider labor costs, permits, overheads, equipment, or other incidentals.
What is a takeoff in construction?
Construction project estimators, whether that’s you or an estimator on your team, use material takeoffs as ingredients for their project estimates.
Blogs
6 takeaways to win more work in a competitive marketplace
This blog explains how home builders can win more work in a competitive marketplace by focusing on accurate quoting and marketing
5 ways to stay productive during Coronavirus
While the construction industry is considered an essential business, it hasn’t been immune to change and work productivity. As a result, many construction business owners, both large and small, have a newfound resource: time.
Construction project management software: complete guide
There are ways to automate many of the functions of a typical construction project manager. Project management software allows you to save time and become more productive to handle more work and have time for yourself.
5 major construction industry challenges right now
The hardest part of being a successful builder and business owner is not the craft of building. It’s the day-to-day running and growing your business. The issues facing the construction industry affect large and small companies alike
How to choose the best construction software for a small business
Even though you may only focus on estimating projects at the moment, think about where your business will be in a year’s time. Getting started with a new software platform takes time, and once in place, it may be hard to replace; so make sure you choose one that will support your business as it scales over time.
ProSales 100 Conference recap: The game has changed in your favor
While the industry continues to expand, technology remains a catalyst for crucial industries, including the built environment and one of the largest and most influential groups today: millennials. Not only are they able to adopt new technology quickly, but they are also ready to buy a home.
3 construction project management tips that will improve efficiency
For most small builders, remodelers, and contractors, the owner does all the duties of a project manager and a whole lot more. There are ways to automate many of the functions of a typical construction project manager, achieves. Project management software allows you to save time and become more productive to handle more construction projects and have time for yourself.
Construction marketing: 10 strategies to get ahead of the competition
Developing a solid strategy will guide your marketing efforts to help you stand out in the crowded construction industry. Marketing your residential construction business online a necessity. The process of changing the way you market your business might seem intimidating, but it is pretty easy to learn.
Featured case studies
A look at innovative remodeling with Xpres Kitchen and Bath
Learn how the pros at Xpres Kitchen & Bath went from juggling multiple software tools to using the leading software in home construction management.
All-in-one construction management boosts builder productivity
Find out how Keith Perez, of TXN Remodeling N Construction, has transformed his 6-year-old remodeling business using Buildxact construction management software.
Innovative home builders turn to simple software to get more done
Learn how the founders of VW Building Projects put an end to the large amounts of time in the office writing project estimates.
Builder uses software to overcome estimating heartache
Estimating took a toll on Josh in terms of his time and health. Learn how software saves time and grows his business.
Just Building Group speeds up estimating to spend more time at the job site
Learn how successful custom home builders use digital online estimating to get accurate bids quickly out the door so they can get back to the job site.
Nook Construction has taken control of their numbers
Hear from Jack Clough of Nook Construction has he explains how Buildxact has taken his business to the next level.
Builder leaves pages of spreadsheets behind to speed estimates
Ron of Marcella Building LLC hasn’t been using Buildxact for a long time, but he’s already noticing significant benefits.
Oregon steelworker easily gains software skill, creates time for family
“There really isn’t anything else in this price point that has all the functionality that Buildxact has, and that’s why we decided to go with you guys.”
Builder moves beyond email to better connect with customers
“I was writing it all out on emails and it was taking forever. Buildxact was just a no-brainer for me. It was exactly what I needed.”
DSP Contractors mejora su eficiencia laboral gracias al itinerario disponible en Buildxact
Los proveedores de familia hacen sacrificios grandes para poder proveer una buena vida a sus seres queridos y poder alimentarlos.
Jennie Akins says friendly training key to adopting estimation software
Learn from Jennie Akins on how she used Buildxact to learn about the construction industry, and started on doing job quotes.
Family business owner says Buildxact people make the difference
John McBride’s world consisted of stocks, bonds, and everything in between from Wall Street. Read how, McBride, owner of BlackTree LLC, uses modern construction management software to have better control of his construction business
Texas builder increases efficiency with digital takeoffs and estimates
Blue Bexar is a small and growing residential construction company in San Antonio, Texas, with three full-time employees. Dustin Ballew is the owner and serves as the general contractor and manager of pretty much everything. As a general contractor, the company does anything from bathroom remodels to new builds to high-end decking.
Online tutorials help Dallas builder quickly learn Buildxact
Buildxact solved Matthew’s need for speed and accuracy from takeoffs to the bidding process. He’s fielding few phone calls and clarifying fewer details because Buildxact lays everything that needs to be bid. Accuracy has become more and more critical for builders because a little mistake five years ago is a huge mistake in today’s environment when it comes to material costs.
With digital takeoffs, builder speeds up material purchasing
With Buildxact, Jeremy has found a way to dramatically speed up construction projects, starting with creating his own takeoffs. And there’s a lot less disconnect with suppliers. Buildxact lists everything in the takeoff speeding up the time it takes both subs and suppliers to submit bids.
The right software makes custom quotes a time saver
Estimating is one of the most critical components of running a profitable business. It’s essential to be as accurate as possible and using software like Buildxact automates formulas you may use on a spreadsheet into a streamlined process.
Intuitive software slashes builder’s estimating time
“What used to take me 10 hours for a whole house estimate now takes me four hours and that’s time I can spend on scaling my business for the future,”
Featured videos
Setting up decking and flooring item assemblies
This video covers how to use item assemblies for decking and flooring.
Setting up framing item assemblies
How to manage wall framing and junctions using Buildxact item assemblies.
How to build a drywall and insulation item assembly
This video will take you through how to set up a drywall and insulation item assembly.
Importing a pricelist
This video will show you how to load your own price catalog into Buildxact.
Completion percent invoicing and retention
This video covers completion percent invoicing
Cost plus invoicing
This video covers cost plus invoicing.
Helping your client access the Client Portal
This video is for people who’ve just been invited to a project via the Buildxact Client Portal.
Manage fixed price invoicing in Buildxact
Learn about creating invoices and refundable deposits, go through what your invoices look like and how to print, edit invoices and change orders.
Featured ebooks
The Ultimate Guide to Remodeling Cost Estimating Software
Looking to become a residential builder? Check out our latest eBook to learn how to get started and established in the industry.
Mastering Construction Estimating and Scheduling: A Guide for Home Builders
Looking to become a residential builder? Check out our latest eBook to learn how to get started and established in the industry.
How to become a residential builder
Looking to become a residential builder? Check out our latest eBook to learn how to get started and established in the industry.
6 keys to improving home construction management
Learn how to improve your home construction management with these six key tips and tricks.
How to estimate construction costs
Learn how to accurately estimate construction project costs with our eBook.
How to build a winning construction proposal
Learn how to build a winning construction proposal with this helpful guide.
What is tendering in home construction?
Learn how tendering works for home building, and how your business can use Buildxact to win more work.
The ultimate guide to accurate home building estimates
Learn how to estimate quicker and more accurately with our ultimate guide to accurate estimates for home builders.
Unlock the secrets to effortless construction bids
Learn construction bidding secrets you can use right now to revitalize your construction quotes and win more work.
How preconstruction works for you
Learn the essentials of a great preconstruction estimate and quote
How branding grows your business
Learn how to build your business by creating quality branding.
What is lean construction?
Avoid wastage and save your business money by learning the ins and outs of lean construction.
How to improve your construction company’s profit margin
Learn strategies you can implement to improve your profit margin
6 ways dealers boost builder success
Learn the six ways dealers can boost the success of their builder customers.
3 steps to a profitable dealer relationship
Download this eBook to learn three steps to having a profitable relationship with your dealers
5 assumptions pro dealers make that cost them customers
Download this infographic to understand the mistakes pro dealers are making that’s costing them customers.
How much money do builders lose to material delays?
Download this infographic to get a deeper insight into how material delays are impacting builders’ profits.
How dealers use SaaS to modernize the builder relationship
Learn how top dealers are using SaaS to create deeper relationships with builders.
5 ways to estimate faster and more accurately eBook
Learn how to estimate faster with your construction takeoffs with cloud-based construction management software. Download the ebook now!
9 ways to maximize your residential construction business’ profit eBook
Learn how to maximize your profits by using cloud-based construction management software. Download the ebook now!
10 ways to market your residential construction business eBook
Social media, remote work, and online communication tools — and today, companies and consumers alike are researching and purchasing online.
The ultimate guide to construction management software eBook
The right construction management software can save you loads of time and help you be more profitable. This guide will take you through the ins and outs of construction management software, key features to look for, and what a quality software can do for you and your business.
What are soft costs in construction? eBook
When estimating the costs of a construction project, it’s important to include all of the costs in order to stay profitable. These are typically split into hard and softs costs. Check out our guide where we explore the difference between these two types of costs, give some examples of soft costs, and explain why soft costs need to be included in project budgets.
How to estimate construction project costs eBook
Estimating software helps streamline the bidding process, reduces errors, and makes pricing more accurate. Learn more with this helpful guide.
Featured Webinars
Get started with Buildxact
Ready to get the most out of Buildxact? This online webinar offers some of the best tips and tricks in home construction management.
5 practical ways to power up with AI
Don’t get lost in the AI hype! Learn what really matters to custom home builders when it comes to coming AI technology.
Fill your 2025 pipeline with work over the holidays
Yes, you can be productive over the holidays! Watch this webinar to learn how you can gather leads for the New Year.
Fuel growth in 2025 with a year-end marketing audit
We want to help you grow your business in 2025! Watch this webinar to learn what marketing systems set you up to capture the attention of your ideal clients.
Beat the market: navigate industry change
Home builders today see challenges on all fronts by global market forces. Learn how industry experts set themselves up to beat the market.
How to leverage tech to reinvent your business
Learn how construction software and other technologies improve the way home builders work.
How construction pros master website lead conversion
Watch this webinar for a masterclass in what matters to construction pros when it comes to building a first-class marketing website.
Zillow presents: 2024 Consumer Home Buying Trends Report
Watch this webinar to discover how buyers finance their dream homes and learn the features buyers splurge on and those they skip.
Pricing for profit with Randy Stanbury
Watch this webinar to better understand why It’s impossible to grow and scale your business until you master the art of pricing.
Reimagine Your Business with Coach Kurt Hegetschweiler
Learn best practices that hundreds of builders have used to reinvent their business and work more efficiently.
Nailing takeoffs and estimates
Discover how automating takeoffs and estimates transforms your business with faster bidding and less errors.
Protect your business from inflation
Join Buildxact and 1build for an update on inflation in construction. 1build is a database of live construction costs.
Bid up to 80% faster
Grow your business when you bid more jobs with Buildxact. Learn all the online features and how easy it is to use construction management software.
Kickstart your 2024 business and profit plan
Yes, you started your business to build beautiful homes, but true success means earning profits. Let’s show you how it’s done.
Let's show you
how it works
- Meet with us today for a one-on-one conversation: we'll email you all the details
- Learn how some simple planning and prep protects profit
- Start cutting 80% of time it takes to complete takeoffs and quote customers 5x faster
- Win the jobs you deserve
