To put it simply, a takeoff in construction is the process where contractors determine how much of each material they will need to complete a project. It’s also called a materials takeoff or a quantity takeoff. A takeoff plays a key role in construction, and contractors use it to create an estimate for a job or simply to determine how much of each material to buy.
This article will guide contractors on how to perform takeoffs from blueprints using HOVER's user-friendly software, ultimately streamlining their estimating process and enhancing project profitability.
When to Use Takeoffs
Let’s take a quick look at three different scenarios where a takeoff is crucial:
1. Submitting a bid.
When you bid on a job, it’s important to know the quantity of each material you’ll need. That way, you can determine the total cost of materials for your bid. Without the material quantities, you could underbid and lose money or overbid and lose the job. An accurate takeoff eliminates these possibilities. 2. Creating an estimate.
Once you know how much material you’ll need, you can create an estimate. Rather than guessing, a takeoff will provide you with accurate information. Once you have the correct material count, you can price everything, add labor hours, tax, and so on.
Figuring out how much material to buy. If you’re not submitting a bid or creating an estimate, you still need to know how much material your project will require. Under-buying causes job-site delays and extra trips to buy more materials. Over-buying has more consequences because it cuts into your profit (and that’s something no one likes). 3. Figuring out how much material to buy.
If you’re not submitting a bid or creating an estimate, you still need to know how much material your project will require. Under-buying causes job-site delays and extra trips to buy more materials. Over-buying has more consequences because it cuts into your profit (and that’s something no one likes).
A construction takeoff is not an estimate—it’s simply determining the number of materials needed. That’s it! Takeoffs don’t have any costs associated with the materials listed. An estimate, on the other hand, applies costs to all the materials determined by the takeoff and adds in other costs the contractor will face. You can’t have an estimate without a takeoff.
How HOVER Takes the Stress Out of Takeoffs
Takeoffs are fundamental to a project, so getting them right the first time can be very stressful. Thankfully, takeoff software helps ease this pressure, and HOVER can make it even less stressful.
Automated Blueprint Measurements
Traditional measurement methods can take time and be inaccurate, leading to discrepancies and costly mistakes in estimates. With HOVER's cutting-edge technology, contractors can now eliminate the need to manually measure blueprints. The software allows you to simply upload the blueprint in PDF format, and the platform's advanced algorithms will accurately measure and generate takeoff-ready dimensions for siding and roofing projects.
Streamline Takeoff Preparation & Ensure Accuracy in Takeoff Measurements
Time is money in construction, and delays in takeoff preparation can hold back project timelines and impact overall profitability. HOVER's software creates takeoff-ready measurements in 24 hours,* so contractors can expedite their takeoff process significantly. By automating measurements and eliminating the need for manual calculations, you can quickly generate precise takeoff details, ensuring that you submit each bid promptly and without compromising accuracy.
(*Note, we are currently 95% within the 24-hour turnaround, barring unforeseen peaks in demand which may delay some jobs.)
Comprehensive Takeoff Reports
HOVER doesn't just provide basic measurements—it offers comprehensive takeoff reports that include all the essential data required for roofing and siding projects. These reports can include square footage calculations, pitch measurements, and other critical information necessary for preparing accurate bids. By having all the data in one place, contractors can avoid the hassle of piecing together various measurements and focus on creating competitive and profitable bids.
Let HOVER Handle Your Takeoffs
HOVER's blueprint measurement and takeoff solution is a user-friendly solution that simplifies the entire takeoff process. Leveraging this cutting-edge technology, contractors can bid confidently, knowing that their estimates are based on reliable, takeoff-ready measurements. Eliminate the burden of manual blueprint measurement and embrace the power of digital takeoffs. Speak to a rep today.
