How to do a construction takeoff in 15 minutes or less

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.

Start creating accurate construction takeoffs and estimates today