How a Construction Takeoff Estimating Service Can Help You Win More Bids

If you are a contractor or builder who wants to win more jobs, then you need quality takeoffs. Accurate construction quantity takeoff services allow you to place more competitive bids and initiate projects faster, sidestepping delays that can arise from material shortages and other costly oversights.

A takeoff is a list of all the materials required to complete a construction takeoff estimating service project. A professional estimator compiles the takeoff by studying blueprints, architectural drawings or project documents to determine exactly what is needed to complete the work. In most cases, estimators will use their years of experience to develop a detailed and accurate list of materials and costs that is suitable for completing the work in a timely manner.

Depending on the complexity of the project, the total number of items may be large or small. Typically, the first step in preparing a construction takeoff is measuring all items that are visible on a drawing or document. The next step is to record all items in a format that will be easy for estimators to review and evaluate. Using a standard format for calculating quantities helps estimators make fast, informed decisions about the work that needs to be completed.

Once the items have been measured, an estimator will add in any additional costs that they know they are likely to face during a project. This may include labor hours, travel costs, taxes, applying a waste factor and any other expenses that are typical for a given type of job. The final step is to create a detailed estimate that will enable a contractor to complete the work at a competitive cost.

There are two ways that a construction takeoff can be performed — manual or digital. Some contractors and subcontractors are familiar with completing a manual takeoff and may not see the value in learning how to use a software solution. However, digital construction takeoffs offer many benefits that can help contractors and subcontractors save time and money on their projects.

A significant advantage of using a digital takeoff is that it can be used on a desktop computer or tablet, so all estimators in an office are able to access the same data. This eliminates the need to send files back and forth between offices, which can significantly reduce the amount of rework that is required. Additionally, a digital solution can be updated quickly, which allows users to have the latest information on hand.

In addition to saving time, digital construction takeoff solutions also help reduce the potential for human error. By eliminating the need to read and interpret scaled drawings, a digital takeoff can reduce the number of errors that are caused by misreading dimensions or counting items that have already been counted. Moreover, digital tools can provide estimates with more precise information than a traditional takeoff. This can heighten bidding accuracy and operational efficacy, which leads to increased profit margins for general contracting and subcontracting firms.