Accurate estimates and contracts

How to use the measuring tools in Buildertrend’s takeoff software

Desktop computer showing Buildertrend Takeoff's measuring tools on it

In today’s market, material costs are high – meaning the margin for error is small. Using takeoff software is your key to success when it comes to precise estimates and construction bids. Increasing measurement and estimation accuracy on your jobs will ultimately save you time and money.

Depending on the size of a project, construction takeoffs can be simple or relatively complex. But no matter how complicated the job is, it always starts with measuring. That’s where Buildertrend Takeoff comes in.

Keep reading to learn more about the differences between each tool and how they work.

How are measurements created with Buildertrend Takeoff?

In Buildertrend Takeoff, there are three primary measuring tools: Area, Linear and Count. These measuring tools can be used as a standalone measurement, or they can be tied into Assemblies.

Assemblies are preexisting templates that are the foundation for creating measurements within Buildertrend Takeoff. They allow users to measure blueprints using the three tools to subsequently calculate the total materials needed. When builders use assemblies within takeoff, they’re provided with a defaulted list of materials, parts and formulas, so they don’t have to create them on their own.

Additionally, Buildertrend accommodates both imperial and metric measurements making this a worldwide application.

What is the difference between the three measuring tools?

In estimating, the decision to use these tools is based on the measurement requirements.

For example, if a builder is measuring the length of walls, they would use a standard linear measurement. If they’re measuring square footage for flooring, they would use the standard area. And if they’re counting how many windows or doors are needed for a home, they would use the count tool. It’s simply dependent on what measurement is needed.

Area: The Area tool is used to measure the area of a flat 2D plane, a pitched surface or to calculate cubic yards or meters.

Linear: The Linear tool is used to measure a standard linear measurement. Buildertrend Takeoff also has a wall area linear measurement type, which allows users to run a linear measurement, set a height and calculate the total face square footage of a wall. This measuring tool can calculate linear cubic yards, and it also has access to a hip and valley function for pitched linear measurements.

Count: The Count tool is used to count individual components such as windows and doors on a plan. This tool also allows users to adjust the icon type and color in order to easily distinguish between individual counts.

What’s the best way to measure within Buildertrend Takeoff?

It’s important to note that although these measuring tools can be used on their own, it’s best to use them in connection to assemblies. This is the only way to ensure line item data will be sent to estimates in Buildertrend.

Builders should start by selecting their assembly from the list of existing templates. Once they select their assembly, all they have to do is set their scale and start measuring. These three tools account for virtually every required measurement type in construction – and creating them with Buildertrend Takeoff is easy.

Where should new users start?

New users should start using assemblies within the Square Takeoff Starter Packages. We have a pre-loaded set of assemblies that cover virtually every building requirement for residential construction. We also have a minimal set of metric assemblies for anyone outside the U.S.

Let Buildertrend Takeoff enhance your measuring and estimating process

With accurate measuring tools, you can start every project with confidence. Use construction takeoff to add hours back to your day and reduce the risk of costly errors.

Learn more about how Buildertrend Takeoff can improve your project planning. Schedule a demo today.

About The Author

Chelsea Cole headshot

Chelsea Cole Chelsea Cole is a senior content marketing specialist at Buildertrend

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