Estimating mistakes can quickly turn a profitable project into a headache.
Missteps in the takeoff process often lead to budget overruns, material shortages or frustrating project delays. But the good news? By identifying and addressing common pitfalls, construction trades can sharpen their bids and avoid costly errors.
Accurate takeoffs and estimates are critical to maintaining profitability and keeping projects on track.
Whether you’re managing a small remodel or a large-scale build, even small miscalculations can have a ripple effect, causing inefficiencies and stress.
We’re covering the top five mistakes trades make during takeoff and estimating and – most importantly – how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Inaccurate measurements
Explanation:
One of the most frequent errors is using incorrect or incomplete measurements during the takeoff process.
It seems straightforward, right? Measure twice, cut once. But it’s easy to overlook tiny details, especially when working on complex projects. Missing even an inch here or there can lead to a lot of frustration later on.
Impact:
Inaccurate measurements often result in wasted materials or worse – unexpected delays when materials run short. Imagine being halfway done with a job, when you realize you don’t have enough drywall. Cue the frantic trip to the local supply store and the dreaded downtime.
Solution:
- Use digital takeoff software for precise measurements – tools like Square Takeoff eliminate human error by automating the process.
- Double-check all inputs and verify critical dimensions, especially for irregular shapes.
- Perform site visits or cross-reference architectural drawings with actual field conditions. There’s nothing worse than realizing a wall is a few inches off after you’ve ordered custom windows.
Mistake 2: Failing to account for waste
Explanation:
Many trades forget to factor in waste when calculating materials, leading to underestimation. It’s tempting to think, “I’m an efficient builder. I won’t need extra.” But the truth is, construction always involves some level of material waste.
Impact:
Not accounting for waste can result in materials running out mid-project. This leads to last-minute, often pricey, orders. And when you’re in a rush, you’re unlikely to get the best deal on materials.
Solution:
- Always build a waste factor into your estimates. Common waste factors include 10-15% for framing or drywall and 5-10% for flooring materials.
- Use historical data from past projects to refine your waste percentages. That way, you’re not just guessing – you’re basing your estimates on real-world results.
Mistake 3: Misinterpreting plans and specs
Explanation:
Reading construction plans can feel like solving a puzzle. Misreading those plans – or misunderstanding specifications – is a common mistake during the takeoff process. The more complex the project, the easier it is to overlook details or make incorrect assumptions.
Impact:
Misinterpreting plans can lead to wrong material quantities, incorrect installation processes and delays during execution. You thought you needed ten windows, but after a closer look, it turns out you need twelve.
Solution:
- Take the time to thoroughly review all construction documents. You don’t want surprises mid-project because of a misread.
- Use takeoff software with integrated plan-viewing features to cross-check plans while making material calculations.
- Seek clarification from architects or engineers if the specs are unclear. It’s always better to ask questions than make assumptions.
Mistake 4: Not including labor costs accurately
Explanation:
Focusing only on material costs and overlooking labor is another common issue. Accurate labor estimates are crucial – especially when you factor in overtime, potential delays or labor shortages. Let’s be real: workers aren’t robots. If they were, projects would go a lot smoother.
Impact:
Inaccurate labor cost estimation can lead to severely underestimated bids, cutting into your profit margins. And no one likes the unpleasant surprise of having to pay more than anticipated.
Solution:
- Break down labor by task, assigning specific time estimates to each.
- Adjust labor estimates based on team productivity, project complexity and anticipated weather delays – because rain happens.
- Use labor costing tools within takeoff software to streamline the process and eliminate the guesswork.
Mistake 5: Not adjusting for price fluctuations
Explanation:
We all know construction material prices can be as unpredictable as the weather. Failing to adjust your estimates for current market prices – particularly for volatile materials like lumber or steel – is a recipe for disaster.
Impact:
Price fluctuations can lead to cost overruns and even disputes with clients when actual material prices exceed your original estimate. No one likes telling a client that their dream kitchen remodel is going to cost 20% more than expected because lumber prices spiked.
Solution:
- Regularly update your material price database or sync with suppliers to get the latest pricing.
- Factor in contingency allowances for price increases, especially for long-term projects.
- Use software that can auto-update material pricing to reflect market changes in real-time, keeping your estimates current and competitive.
Take the stress out of estimating
By avoiding these common takeoff and estimating mistakes, you can improve profitability, reduce project delays and build better client trust. Whether it’s double-checking measurements or accounting for waste, these small adjustments can have a big impact on your bottom line.
Ready to make your estimates more accurate and your projects more profitable? Explore how Square Takeoff’s digital solutions can help you avoid these errors and create more accurate bids. Get started with a free trial today