Material Takeoff for Construction Estimation

A Material Takeoff (MTO), derived from construction drawings and plans, is an inventory of all materials and their quantities that are required to complete a construction project. It serves as the cornerstone for estimating and bidding on construction contracts. Read on to learn about the transition from manual to digital takeoff methods.

The Importance of Material Takeoff

The accuracy of construction estimates, project budgets, and timelines heavily relies on material takeoff measurements and calculations. Precise material takeoffs actually ensure that all stakeholders can really help manage a construction project from start to finish. Inaccuracies in this step can disrupt budgets, workflows, and even project completion.

Analyzing a Material Takeoff

A material takeoff is a complete list of materials required for a project, excluding labor, heavy equipment, or material costs. It is an important document used in the estimation phase, where the quantities derived from the takeoff are used to calculate material and supplementary expenses.

Digital vs. Manual Takeoff

Manual takeoffs are conducted by measuring and counting components manually from paper blueprints, which are prone to errors and time-consuming calculations. The emergence of digital takeoff methods has made the accuracy and efficiency of the process a lot better.

The Electronic Takeoff Process

Digital takeoff involves uploading digital plans, setting the scale, and using software tools to measure and record quantities. The entire process is totally done digitally and so is a lot more reliable and accurate.

Solutions for Digital Takeoff & Estimation

A lot of digital takeoff solutions are available in the market.

On-Screen Takeoff

This software offers powerful capabilities for measuring, estimating, and bidding on medium to large construction projects. The Takeoff BoostTM feature makes use of artificial intelligence for takeoff measurements.

PlanSwift

PlanSwift is a great system for material takeoff and construction estimation. It is about to provide trade specific solutions for lots of construction needs.

QuoteSoft

Designed for mechanical, pipe, plumbing, HVAC, and ducting trades, QuoteSoft has a lot of tools and parts catalogues for precise material takeoffs and labor estimates.