Square & Level / Guides / What is a takeoff
What is a construction takeoff?
A construction takeoff is the list of every material and quantity needed to build a project, measured from the drawings. It is the first step in every bid, and every number in the estimate depends on it.
Takeoff vs. estimate
The two words are often used as if they mean the same thing, but they are different steps.
| Takeoff | Estimate | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Quantities measured from the plans | Those quantities, priced |
| Answers | How much material? | How much will it cost? |
| Includes | Counts, lengths, areas and volumes | Material, labor, equipment, overhead and markup |
| Example | 1,240 LF of 3-5/8" metal stud wall | $38,900 for framing and drywall |
The four kinds of measurements
- Count (EA). Items you count one by one: light fixtures, doors, diffusers, receptacles.
- Linear (LF). Items measured by length: pipe, conduit, base trim, curb, wall framing.
- Area (SF or SQ). Surfaces: drywall, flooring, roofing, paint, slabs.
- Volume (CY). Concrete, excavation and fill.
What a good takeoff includes
- Quantities organized by CSI division and trade, so they match how you price.
- Marked-up plan sheets showing what was counted, so you can check any line.
- An editable spreadsheet you can add your own pricing to.
- Waste listed separately, so you can use your own waste factors.
- Written assumptions and exclusions, so there are no surprises on bid day.
Who does takeoffs
General contractors, subcontractors and suppliers all do takeoffs. Larger firms have estimators on staff. Smaller firms often do takeoffs at night after the job site, or outsource them to an estimating service so they can bid more work.
Takeoffs by trade
Each trade measures different things. See what goes into a takeoff for concrete, framing, roofing, drywall, flooring, painting, millwork, HVAC, electrical, low voltage and sitework, or a full construction estimate.
Need a takeoff this week? Send your plans and get a fixed quote in 2 hours. Single-trade takeoffs are $99, full estimates $249–$499, and monthly plans start at $299 for 4 takeoffs.
Send your plansSee pricingCommon questions
What is a construction takeoff?
A list of every material and quantity needed to build a project, measured from the plans. It is the basis for every construction estimate.
What is the difference between a takeoff and an estimate?
A takeoff measures quantities. An estimate prices those quantities with material, labor, equipment, overhead and markup.
What units are used in a takeoff?
Each (EA) for counted items, linear feet (LF) for lengths, square feet (SF) or roofing squares for areas, and cubic yards (CY) for volumes.