Estimating software with architectural plans

Every preconstruction process varies, but most involve a phase of analyzing plans from an architect or engineer, taking measurements, and creating a list of needed materials and labor. This is typically referred to as takeoff, and it often gets lumped together with the estimating phase. But working with professional estimators and contractors, we recognize that takeoff is a critical element of accurate estimating. Builders have shared their feedback about what they need most in a construction takeoff tool connected to their estimating software, so here are the five key features we’ve built into the 1build construction takeoff software.

1. Cloud-based Takeoff Access
2. Easy Plan Upload
3. Commonsense Measurement Tools
4. Dynamic Local Pricing
5. Professional Help When You Need It

1. Cloud-based Takeoff Access

A construction job can take you anywhere, so your takeoff needs to be able to travel with you! The entire 1build platform, including our estimating software and construction takeoff tool, is cloud-based. That means there’s no software to download, and you can access your 1build dashboard from any browser, even on tablet or mobile devices.

Cloud-based takeoffs created in 1build are also secured beyond basic software standards, so you know your data is secure and ready for you whenever you need it. You can also add multiple users to your 1build account, so your entire team can add measurements from the field and office, creating a robust takeoff of any architectural plan.

2. Easy Plan Upload

Ready to upload your documents and start a takeoff? No matter the size or type of plans, 1build is ready. You can upload plansets as images, PDFs, or zip files. Once your files are uploaded, you can reorder and rename each page so your takeoff stays organized. We’ve also included the option to add multiple documents to the same takeoff, so you can combine photos, sketches, electrical plans, and sitework drawings together. Working on a big project? Our page search feature makes it easy to find what you are looking for, no matter how many pages are in your planset.

3. Commonsense Measurement Tools

Let’s measure! With 1build’s construction takeoff software, you can measure your planset, using the line, area, and item count tools. With the line tool, you are able to measure any line within your determined scale and save it as a takeoff item that will connect to your estimate.

Using the area tool is as simple as clicking each corner to create any perimeter—we’ve seen builders use this tool for flooring, countertops, roof areas, or determining total conditioned square footage of a space. Item counts are perfect for adding up pipe elbows, electrical outlets, doors, and coping.

To keep every count organized and visible, use the color and pattern selection feature. Each takeoff measurement can be assigned a different color, and then a texture, such as wood flooring, can be added as well, so nothing in your plans is overlooked.

4. Dynamic Local Pricing

When you have your takeoffs in place, it's time to tie those measurements and counts to real materials, labor, and equipment. With 1build, you don’t have to wait on subcontractors to estimate for you or look up your numbers in outdated, dusty price books. Instead you have instant access to the 1build data library, with specific costs loaded for your project’s county. The 1build rate includes material cost by unit, labor rate, and production rate, and every section is able to be manually adjusted to fit your crew.

5. Professional Help When You Need It

Does your company need a takeoff and estimate to bid the next project, but you are out of time? Or maybe you’re chasing a big project that needs some additional expertise? With the 1build Estimator Network, you can hire a professional estimator with experience in your specific set of trades. Then you’ll work with your estimator in the 1build platform to clarify your scope and lay out any specific material needs. Once the estimate is completed, it's published to your dashboard, and you can even duplicate it if you ever have a similar project and need a head start!