{"id":7247,"date":"2021-12-28T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-12-28T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bxglobal.wpengine.com\/us\/takeoff-estimating\/"},"modified":"2023-08-21T16:19:24","modified_gmt":"2023-08-21T20:19:24","slug":"takeoff-estimating","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.buildxact.com\/us\/blog\/takeoff-estimating\/","title":{"rendered":"How to do construction takeoff estimating"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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What is takeoff estimating?<\/b><\/h2>

Takeoff estimating, or a<\/span> material takeoff<\/strong> <\/span><\/a>is an integral part of the construction estimating process.<\/span><\/p>

A material takeoff involves estimated counts of material supplies, material costs, labor costs and equipment by itemized prices and also can include a project completion date estimate by computing delivery times and building hours.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

A builder begins the construction takeoff process by assessing the construction site and the designs.\u00a0 He or she will take into consideration elevations, drainage issues, and natural hazards in the takeoff. This information is then used to estimate costs by measuring and counting materials and deciding on equipment and contractors.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Most builders and estimators will conduct digital construction takeoffs. <\/span>Construction takeoff software<\/b><\/a> such as Buildxact has transformed the time-consuming method of manual takeoffs into a more efficient digital process that allows builders to complete their own material takeoffs.<\/span><\/p>

Why is a construction takeoff so important?<\/b><\/h2>

Accurate bids win proposals<\/b><\/h3>

Construction takeoffs are used to create a cost estimate as part of the bidding process.\u00a0 Even though the takeoff process can be time-consuming, it is an essential part of any construction project.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

The accuracy of the construction cost estimating during takeoff will determine the profit margin after completion. If the profit margin is sufficient the builder can put a project proposal forward to the client.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Digital takeoff software tools create a professional project proposal that will increase the chances of winning jobs. Using construction takeoff software provides an accurate estimate that gives confidence to both builder and client that costs will not blow out the budget over the length of the project.<\/span><\/p>

A comprehensive materials list ensures accuracy<\/b><\/h3>

Construction takeoffs estimate the raw materials or prefabricated materials required to be ordered and provide certainty that the list of materials is comprehensive and materials are costed precisely.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Digital takeoff software is used by estimators and builders to automatically produce price estimates and accurately calculate material costs. This is especially important for complex projects.<\/span><\/p>

Accounting for contractors means nothing is missed\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>

Many jobs, like those done by roofing contractors<\/b><\/a>, require specialized installations. An estimator or builder uses the construction material takeoff process to determine whether a general contractor or many subcontractors are required and can add this to the project proposal.<\/p>

What\u2019s included in a takeoff estimate?<\/b><\/h2>

The <\/span>construction takeoff<\/span> process is a <\/span>list of required materials with cost estimates calculated. An estimator or builder will use digital blueprints to ascertain necessary information about the construction project before beginning the estimate.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Construction project type<\/b><\/h3>

The type of construction project may be a:<\/span><\/p>