Month: June 2025

Quantity takeoff 101: A guide for new and growing construction businesses

Posted on by Julia Thompson

For contractors new to digital estimating, understanding quantity takeoff is a crucial step toward improving your bids and growing your business.

Accurate estimating can mean the difference between winning profitable jobs and losing money on costly mistakes.

This guide breaks down what quantity takeoff is, how it works and why it’s especially important for small and growing construction businesses.

What Is quantity takeoff?

Simply put, quantity takeoff is the process of measuring and listing all the materials required for a construction project directly from the plans or blueprints. It includes everything from the square footage of drywall and flooring to the volume of concrete or the linear feet of piping.

Traditionally, contractors did quantity takeoffs manually by reviewing printed plans, measuring with rulers and calculating quantities by hand. This approach is time-consuming and prone to human error. Today, most contractors use digital tools that allow for faster, more accurate takeoffs right on their computer or tablet.

By automating measurements and linking them to material costs, digital quantity takeoff saves time and helps ensure bids reflect the true scope and cost of the job.

Why quantity takeoff matters for small contractors

For small and growing construction businesses, quantity takeoff is more than just a measuring task – it’s a foundation for profitability and trust. Here’s why it matters:

  • Material accuracy: Precise takeoffs help avoid ordering too much or too little material, reducing waste and unexpected costs.
  • Avoid underbidding: Accurate quantities mean your estimates reflect real expenses, so you don’t lose money by underpricing jobs.
  • Client confidence: Detailed, transparent estimates show professionalism and help build trust with clients.
  • Time efficiency: Digital takeoff speeds up the bidding process, allowing you to submit more bids and win more work.

Without reliable quantity takeoff, small contractors risk losing money on jobs or missing out on growth opportunities due to slow or inaccurate bids.

How quantity takeoff works with software

Modern quantity takeoff software simplifies the process by combining digital plan viewing with measurement and calculation tools. Here’s a basic overview of how it works:

  1. Import project plans: Upload blueprints or digital drawings into the software.
  2. Measure quantities: Use on-screen tools to trace areas, lengths or volumes needed for your project materials.
  3. Automatic calculations: The software converts measurements into quantities – like square feet of drywall or cubic yards of concrete.
  4. Cost integration: Link quantities to pricing databases for materials and labor, creating an accurate, itemized estimate.
  5. Generate reports: Produce detailed material lists and cost breakdowns for ordering and client approval.

This streamlined workflow reduces manual math, speeds up your estimates and improves accuracy.

Tips for getting started with quantity takeoff software

If you’re new to digital takeoff, here are some practical tips to get up to speed quickly and make the most of the software:

  • Choose software made for small teams: Look for tools with simple interfaces designed for contractors, not engineers.
  • Start small: Begin with a small project or portion of a job to practice measuring and estimating digitally.
  • Use templates and formulas: Many programs offer preset templates or formulas for common materials – these save time and reduce errors.
  • Double-check your work: Always review measurements before finalizing estimates to catch any mistakes.
  • Leverage support and training: Take advantage of tutorials, customer support and community forums to learn best practices.

Starting with these habits will help you build confidence and accuracy as you adopt digital estimating.

Why Square Takeoff is a smart choice for new contractors

For contractors just getting started with quantity takeoff software, Square Takeoff offers an ideal balance of power and simplicity. It’s an all-in-one platform that combines takeoff and estimating, designed specifically to meet the needs of small and growing construction businesses.

Square Takeoff provides:

  • User-friendly tools that don’t require technical expertise
  • Fast plan importing and measurement tools for efficient takeoffs
  • Preloaded cost databases customizable to your local market
  • Cloud-based access so you can work from the office, job site or home
  • Affordable pricing that fits smaller budgets

With Square Takeoff, new contractors can quickly produce accurate, professional estimates and bid with confidence – setting the stage for business growth.

Take your estimating to the next level

Mastering quantity takeoff is essential for contractors who want to improve estimating accuracy, protect profits and grow their business. By switching to digital tools, small and growing construction teams can work faster, reduce costly mistakes and present clearer bids to clients.

If you’re ready to take your estimating to the next level, give Square Takeoff a try.

Start your 14-day free trial today and see how easy and accurate quantity takeoff can be.

How to choose the right estimating software for your construction business

Posted on by Square Takeoff Staff

If you’re still buried in spreadsheets or trying to make sense of handwritten notes from your last site walk, it might be time for a change. Estimating software is no longer a “nice-to-have” – it’s a must for construction professionals who want to save time, reduce errors and win more bids.

But here’s the kicker: not all estimating software is created equal.

So, how do you know which one is right for your construction business? Don’t worry – we’ve got your back (and your blueprint).

Let’s dig into the nuts and bolts of choosing the best estimating software.

1. Know your business needs (yes, yours)

Before you even start Googling “best estimating software,” take a minute to think about what your business actually needs.

Are you a solo contractor handling custom remodels? Or are you managing a team that cranks out large-scale builds? The size and scope of your projects will help determine the features you need – and the ones you don’t.

Pro tip: Don’t pay for features you’ll never use. Choose a solution that fits like your favorite hard hat – not one that’s bulky, bloated, or built for someone else.

2. Look for easy-to-use tools (because nobody has time for a learning curve)

You didn’t sign up to be a software engineer – you build stuff. So, your estimating software should be easy to use, even if you’re not a tech wizard.

Look for a clean interface, intuitive workflows and – bonus points – training or support that doesn’t feel like pulling teeth.

What to ask:

  • Is the software cloud-based and accessible from anywhere?
  • How easy is it to create takeoffs and estimates?
  • Can I onboard my team without losing a whole weekend?

3. Accuracy is everything

A single estimating error can cost you thousands – or cost you the job altogether. Your software should help you build fast, accurate estimates that you can actually trust.

Features to look for:

  • Drag-and-drop takeoffs
  • Prebuilt material databases
  • Real-time cost updates
  • Custom assemblies for repeatable tasks

With Square Takeoff, for example, you can measure, mark up and estimate directly from digital blueprints. It’s like giving your old pencil a power tool upgrade.

4. Integration = less busywork

Let’s be honest. No one wants to double-enter data or bounce between five different platforms just to submit a bid. The right estimating software should play nicely with your other tools – from accounting programs to project management platforms.

Bonus if it integrates with:

  • Excel (for the spreadsheet lovers)
  • QuickBooks (to keep the books tidy)

5. Support that doesn’t ghost you

Construction doesn’t stop at 5 p.m., and neither should your software support. Whether you’re stuck on a Sunday or need a quick walkthrough on Wednesday morning, make sure your provider has your back.

At Square Takeoff, we offer real, human support – no robots or endless phone trees here. (Unless you’re into that. No judgment.)

6. Value, not just price

It’s tempting to chase the lowest price tag, but you get what you pay for. Instead, look for software that delivers the most value for your money – even if it’s not the cheapest on the shelf.

Think of it like choosing a subcontractor. You want reliable, experienced and efficient – not just the cheapest bid.

Why construction pros choose Square Takeoff

Thousands of contractors and estimators trust Square Takeoff to streamline their estimating process – and for good reason.

✔ Cloud-based access
✔ Fast, digital takeoffs
✔ Built-in cost estimating tools
✔ Easy learning curve
✔ Excellent support
✔ A 14-day free trial – because you should try before you buy

Ready to build better bids?

Estimating doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right estimating software, you can take your construction business to the next level – with less stress and more wins.

Take Square Takeoff for a spin with a free 14-day trial. No credit card. No strings. Just better estimating.

Takeoff programs demystified: What small builders need to know to stay competitive

Posted on by Julia Thompson

In today’s construction industry, small builders and contractors face increasing pressure to deliver fast, accurate bids.

Clients expect quick turnarounds. Profit margins are tighter. And larger competitors often have access to advanced tools that speed up their workflows.

That’s where takeoff programs come in.

If you’re still doing manual takeoffs with a ruler and printed plans, you’re at a serious disadvantage. This blog breaks down what takeoff programs are, why they matter and how small teams can use them to win more jobs and increase profitability – without adding overhead.

What are takeoff programs?

A takeoff program is software that allows you to digitally measure materials and quantities directly from blueprints. Instead of printing plans and manually calculating square footage or linear feet, you upload the file (PDF, DWG, etc.) into a digital tool and complete your measurements on-screen.

The program then automatically converts those measurements into quantities – like cubic yards of concrete or square feet of flooring – so you can build faster, more accurate estimates.

Most takeoff programs also integrate with estimating tools, making it easy to convert your measurements into job-ready proposals.

Why takeoff programs matter for small builders

Manual takeoffs take time, and time is money – especially for small businesses that juggle project management, field work and bidding all at once.

Here’s what digital takeoff programs can offer:

  • Faster estimates: Complete takeoffs in a fraction of the time – often in minutes.
  • Improved accuracy: Automated calculations reduce human error and help avoid costly underbids.
  • More bids, more wins: When you can estimate faster, you can pursue more projects.
  • Better margins: Know exactly how much material and labor you need to avoid waste and padding.
  • Professional results: Deliver clear, detailed estimates that earn client trust and set you apart.

Whether you’re doing kitchen remodels or full custom builds, the ability to quickly produce precise takeoffs gives you a real edge.

How takeoff programs work: A step-by-step overview

Digital takeoff programs are designed to be intuitive – even for contractors who aren’t tech-savvy. Here’s a typical workflow:

  1. Upload your plans: Import project drawings in PDF or CAD format.
  2. Perform on-screen takeoffs: Use digital tools to trace and measure items like walls, foundations, roofing or trim.
  3. Auto-generate quantities: The program instantly calculates total area, volume or length.
  4. Estimate costs: Link quantities to your material and labor pricing to build a detailed estimate.
  5. Export reports: Generate clean, professional reports for clients, suppliers or your own team.

The process eliminates guesswork and frees up time so you can focus on managing your projects – not doing math.

What to look for in a takeoff program

Not all takeoff programs are created equal. As a small builder or contractor, you should look for software that’s built for your needs – not oversized commercial systems meant for enterprise firms.

Here’s what to prioritize:

  • Ease of use: You shouldn’t need weeks of training to get started. Look for software with a clean interface and simple tools.
  • Plan compatibility: Make sure the program supports your file formats (like PDF, DWG, etc.).
  • Built-in estimating: If it includes cost estimation tools, even better – it saves you from switching platforms.
  • Cloud access: Cloud-based programs let you work from anywhere: office, job site or home.
  • Affordable pricing: Choose a tool that gives you pro features without enterprise costs.

These features ensure you get up and running quickly – and that the software keeps working as you grow.

Why small teams choose Square Takeoff

Square Takeoff is built with the needs of small builders and trades in mind. It’s not bloated software with features you’ll never use. Instead, it’s a streamlined platform that does exactly what you need – takeoff and estimating – in one place.

With Square Takeoff, you get:

  • Easy onboarding and a short learning curve
  • Fast, accurate measurements from any device
  • Built-in cost databases for efficient estimates
  • Customizable reports to present polished bids
  • Affordable monthly plans designed for smaller businesses

Whether you’re working solo or managing a small crew, Square Takeoff helps level the playing field – so you can compete with larger firms and still stay lean.

Stay competitive with cutting-edge takeoff programs

Digital takeoff programs aren’t a luxury anymore – they’re essential tools for staying competitive in construction today. Small builders who embrace them gain back time, improve accuracy and win more work with less stress.

If you’re ready to make the switch and see how much time and profit you can save, Square Takeoff is here to help.

Start your 14-day free trial today. No risk, no credit card required.

How to speed up your bidding process with digital takeoffs

Posted on by Square Takeoff Staff

If you’ve ever found yourself buried in blueprints, highlighter in one hand and calculator in the other, chances are you’ve also muttered, “There has to be a better way.”

Spoiler alert: there is.

Digital takeoffs are transforming the way contractors, estimators and builders approach the bidding process. And if you’re still stuck with old-school methods, you’re not just wasting time – you’re probably leaving money on the table.

Let’s talk about how switching to digital takeoffs and the right estimating software (like Square Takeoff) can help you bid faster, smarter and with way less stress.

The problem with traditional bidding

Manual takeoffs are … well, manual. That means:

  • Printing or plotting plans (cha-ching)
  • Measuring line by line (hello, ruler fatigue)
  • Flipping back and forth between pages
  • Double-checking math (and still finding errors later)
  • Scrambling to update quantities when the architect sends “just one more” revision

This process doesn’t just drain your time – it increases the chance of human error. And in construction, small mistakes can lead to big costs.

What are digital takeoffs?

Digital takeoffs let you perform measurements directly from digital blueprints on your computer or tablet. With the right estimating software, you can:

  • Measure areas, lengths and volumes with a few clicks
  • Instantly calculate material quantities and costs
  • Save and reuse templates for repeat projects
  • Easily make adjustments when plans change
  • Share takeoffs with your team in real time

Translation? Less guesswork, more go time.

How digital takeoffs speed up the bidding process

Ready to win more jobs in less time? Here’s how digital takeoffs help you shift into high gear.

1. No more printing plans

With digital tools, you can upload PDFs or digital drawings directly – no trips to the print shop, no wasted paper and no oversized roll of plans taking up your front seat.

2. Faster measurements

Click, drag, done. Measuring with Square Takeoff is as easy as point and click. And bonus: it’s more accurate than the human eyeball.

3. Built-in calculations

When your takeoff is linked to pricing, you don’t need to break out the calculator or spreadsheet. Your estimating software does the math for you, instantly converting measurements into costs.

4. Templates and shortcuts

Do a lot of the same types of projects? You can create templates that speed up your takeoff process even more. It’s like having a fast-forward button for your bids.

5. Easy edits and revisions

When plans change (and they always do), it’s no sweat. With digital takeoffs, you can quickly adjust quantities without starting over. That means faster turnaround on updates and happier clients.

6. Work from anywhere

Whether you’re in the office, at home, or on-site, cloud-based estimating software like Square Takeoff lets you access your takeoffs from anywhere. All you need is a device and internet connection.

Why Square Takeoff?

There are plenty of tools out there, but Square Takeoff was designed with real contractors and estimators in mind. It’s built to be powerful – but also intuitive – so you don’t need to be a tech wizard to use it.

With Square Takeoff, you get:

  • Easy-to-use interface (goodbye, 20-tab spreadsheets)
  • Custom pricing databases
  • Real-time collaboration tools
  • Project management integration
  • Fast, accurate takeoffs that make your bids stand out

Start bidding smarter today

The bidding process shouldn’t feel like a race against the clock. With digital takeoffs and smart estimating software like ours, you can move faster, bid more accurately and win more work – without burning yourself out.

Ready to see how much time you can save? Start your FREE 14-day trial of Square Takeoff today!

How construction estimating apps help small contractors move from spreadsheets to smart bidding

Posted on by Julia Thompson

If you’re a small contractor still estimating projects with Excel – or worse, pen and paper – you’re not alone. These methods have been a go-to for years, but in today’s fast-paced, competitive construction market, they could be holding your business back.

Accuracy, speed and professionalism matter more than ever when bidding jobs. And falling behind – even by a day – can mean missing out on valuable work.

Fortunately, construction estimating apps make it easy to transition to a faster, smarter way of bidding, without needing a huge team or expensive software.

Why spreadsheets and manual methods are hurting your bids

On the surface, spreadsheets might seem flexible and familiar. But they introduce a surprising number of problems – especially when your goal is to grow.

Manual estimating methods often come with:

  • Human error: A single formula mistake can throw off your entire estimate.
  • No integration: Spreadsheets don’t connect with digital plans or pricing tools.
  • Limited collaboration: Only one person can work on a file at a time, which slows you down.
  • Wasted time: Copying data between systems eats up valuable hours.
  • Outdated pricing: Without real-time material costs, your bids can quickly become inaccurate.

If you’ve ever double-checked a spreadsheet and still missed something, or lost a bid because your estimate came in too late, you’ve seen the downside firsthand.

How estimating apps simplify the process

Unlike spreadsheets, construction estimating apps are built specifically for contractors. They combine takeoff, estimating and pricing tools in a single platform. That means you can measure plans, calculate quantities and create professional proposals all in one place.

Let’s break down what makes these apps so effective:

  • Digital takeoffs: Upload project plans and perform on-screen measurements quickly and accurately.
  • Built-in pricing: Use preset material and labor databases, or customize your own, for up-to-date cost estimates.
  • Anywhere access: Cloud-based platforms let you work from the office, job site or even your truck.
  • Team collaboration: Multiple users can access the same project, so you’re not working in silos.
  • Instant reports: Auto-generate polished estimates and proposals to share with clients or suppliers.

When you replace manual methods with digital workflows, you remove a major bottleneck in your business: slow, error-prone estimating.

Why construction estimating apps help you win more work

Beyond making your day-to-day easier, estimating apps can directly improve your ability to win jobs and grow.

Accurate and timely bids show professionalism – and they build trust. With faster turnarounds, you can bid on more jobs in less time. With reliable cost data, you can price more competitively without cutting into your margins. And with clean, consistent proposals, you stand out against builders still sending over handwritten notes or disorganized PDFs.

The result? Fewer errors, faster responses, better margins – and more wins.

Square Takeoff: Built for small but ambitious contractors

Square Takeoff is an all-in-one construction estimating app designed specifically for small to mid-sized contractors.

You get:

  • Digital takeoff tools to measure plans quickly and accurately
  • Integrated cost estimating with custom material and labor rates
  • Professional proposal templates ready to send to clients
  • Cloud access so you can work from anywhere, on any device
  • Simple pricing with no bloated features or enterprise bloat

Whether you’re doing remodels, concrete or roofing, Square Takeoff helps you move beyond spreadsheets and toward smarter, scalable estimating.

If you’re serious about growing your construction business, it’s time to rethink the way you bid. Spreadsheets and handwritten estimates were fine when you started – but they won’t get you to the next level.

Construction estimating apps make the transition easy. You’ll gain speed, accuracy, and confidence in every bid you send. And with tools like Square Takeoff, you don’t need a big team or a big budget to get started.

Start your 14-day free trial of Square Takeoff today. No credit card required.

How to do a construction takeoff in 15 minutes or less

Posted on by Square Takeoff Staff

Let’s face it – nobody gets into construction for the joy of spending hours squinting at blueprints and calculating square footage with a highlighter and ruler. If you’re still using the old-school method for takeoffs, we’ve got news for you: there’s a faster, better way.

At Square Takeoff, we believe your time is better spent building than bogged down in manual work. That’s why we’ve built construction estimating software designed to get your takeoff done in 15 minutes or less. Yes, really.

Here’s how to make that happen – without breaking a sweat.

1. Ditch the paper plans

We love a good set of blueprints as much as the next person, but paper plans belong in a frame, not on your estimating desk. Start by uploading your digital plans directly into Square Takeoff. Our platform automatically scales and organizes everything, so you’re ready to roll in seconds.

2. Set your scale (once, not every time)

With old methods, setting scale can feel like playing pin the tail on the donkey – except less fun. Square Takeoff makes it easy to define the scale for each page or use the built-in auto-scale detection, so you’re accurate from the jump. No guessing. No rework. Just precision.

3. Trace it like a pro (without the protractor)

Now for the fun part. Our intuitive tools let you quickly trace walls, floors, roofs and other components with just a few clicks. Need to calculate volume or linear feet? Done. Want to apply specific materials to your takeoff? Double done.

And here’s the kicker, our construction estimating software lets you create reusable templates for different project types, so future takeoffs take even less time. (We’re talking under 10 minutes kind of fast.)

4. Generate your estimate instantly

This is where the magic happens. Once your takeoff is complete, our software automatically generates quantities and links them to cost data for instant, professional-grade estimates. You can even customize your bid formats, apply labor rates and include waste factors with just a few clicks.

Say goodbye to clunky spreadsheets. Say hello to lightning-fast accuracy.

5. Share it, submit it, win the job

With your takeoff and estimate polished and ready, it’s time to send it off. Export your files in PDF or Excel or share your project directly from Square Takeoff to keep things streamlined and professional.

Now, all that’s left is to celebrate when you win the bid (and maybe start planning what you’ll do with all that saved time).

Why speed matters in takeoffs

Speed isn’t just about convenience – it’s about staying competitive. In a world where bids are won and lost in a matter of hours, slow processes can cost you real money.

Square Takeoff’s construction estimating software helps you move faster without sacrificing accuracy, so you can bid more jobs, grow your business and still get home in time for dinner.

Get started with Square Takeoff today

Crush your next takeoff in 15 minutes or less. Start your free 14-day trial now and see how fast and easy construction estimating can be.

How to choose the best estimate software for your growing construction business

Posted on by Julia Thompson

Still using spreadsheets to estimate your construction jobs? As your business grows, those manual methods can slow you down and cost you work.

The right estimate software helps you bid faster, more accurately and with more confidence. Here’s what to look for when choosing a solution that fits your business now – and as it grows.

Why estimate software matters

Manual estimates lead to errors, delays and missed opportunities. Software streamlines your entire estimating process – from digital takeoffs to cost calculations to proposals – so you can focus on building, not crunching numbers.

Must-have features

When comparing estimate software, make sure it includes:

  •  Digital takeoffs from PDFs or plan files
  •  Custom pricing for materials and labor
  •  Professional proposals you can send instantly
  •  Cloud access to work from anywhere
  •  Team collaboration features
  •  Reporting tools to track cost and profit

These features keep you organized, help avoid scope creep and ensure every bid is backed by solid numbers.

Ease of use is key

You need tools made for contractors – not tech pros. Choose estimate software with:

  • A simple interface
  • Quick onboarding
  • Helpful customer support
  • Minimal learning curve

If it takes weeks to figure out, it’s not worth your time.

Scalable pricing that grows with you

Avoid expensive enterprise tools or software with long-term contracts. Look for:

  • Affordable monthly plans
  • Flexible user options
  • Tools you can scale up as your team or project load increases

This ensures you’re not overpaying now but still have room to grow.

Why small contractors choose Square Takeoff

Square Takeoff is built for small and growing construction businesses. It offers:

  • Built-in takeoff and estimating tools
  • Custom cost databases
  • Fast proposal generation
  • Cloud access from any device
  • Simple pricing and no bloat

Try it free for 14 days – no credit card required

Upgrading to the right estimate software helps small contractors save time, reduce errors and win more bids. If you’re ready to grow, it’s time to leave the spreadsheets behind.

Start your 14-day free trial of Square Takeoff today.

The case for investing in preconstruction: It’s not overhead – it’s strategy

Posted on by Square Takeoff Staff

Let’s be real – in construction, every dollar counts and every minute matters. So, when you hear the word preconstruction, your first thought might be, “Great, more overhead.”

But hang on. Before you write it off as a cost center, let’s flip the script.

Preconstruction isn’t a drain on your budget. It’s a strategic powerhouse that sets the stage for smoother builds, happier clients and bigger profits. And with tools like Square Takeoff, investing in preconstruction has never been easier – or smarter.

What is preconstruction, really?

Think of preconstruction as your project’s blueprint for success – and we don’t just mean the architectural kind. It’s the phase where ideas are clarified, scopes are defined, materials are priced, schedules are built and risks are identified. All before a shovel hits the ground.

In short: Preconstruction is where the magic happens. Or at least where you prevent the madness.

Why preconstruction isn’t just overhead

We get it. On paper, preconstruction tasks like estimating, takeoffs and scheduling don’t build walls or pour concrete. But here’s what they do build:

1. Stronger bids

Preconstruction planning means uncovering problems early – before they become change orders, delays or budget busters. A little planning up front means a lot less stress later.

2. Fewer surprises

Preconstruction planning means uncovering problems early – before they become change orders, delays or budget busters. A little planning up front means a lot less stress later.

3. Better client confidence

Clients notice when you come to the table prepared. Detailed plans and reliable numbers make you look like the pro you are – and help them feel good about signing on the dotted line.

4. More profitable jobs

The fewer the surprises, the better the outcomes. And better outcomes mean better profits. Preconstruction helps you control the controllables – and that’s where the money is.

Where Square Takeoff comes in

Now for the fun part: making preconstruction actually easy.

Square Takeoff takes the heavy lifting out of preconstruction by letting you perform fast, accurate digital takeoffs and estimates – from anywhere, on any device. With cloud-based access, collaborative tools and real-time updates, it’s like having a full estimating department in your back pocket.

Forget printing blueprints or squinting at scaled paper plans. Square Takeoff turns your screen into a smart workspace that saves you time, increases accuracy and lets you bid with confidence.

The bottom line: Preconstruction = profit strategy

Investing in preconstruction is like sharpening your tools before swinging the hammer. It’s not wasted time or overhead — it’s how you protect your margins, win more bids, and build smarter from the start.

So, are you still thinking of preconstruction as a cost? Or are you ready to use it as a strategic advantage?

Ready to turn your preconstruction process into a profit engine?

Start your free 14-day trial of Square Takeoff today.No credit card. No pressure. Just smarter takeoffs and a stronger start to every build.