What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (2024)

Table of Contents
Manage Leads Win More Work Manage the build Track finances What is a quantity takeoff in construction? Difference between materials and quantity takeoff Why is it important to do a quantity takeoff? During what stage should a quantity takeoff be completed? Who is responsible for doing a project’s quantity takeoff? What measurements are required? Unit count Linear length Surface area Cubic volume Physical weight How to do a quantity takeoff – the basics Understand what needs to be counted Take measurements Calculate the takeoff Different types of quantity takeoffs Manual quantity takeoff Digital quantity takeoff Manual vs digital quantity takeoff Want a digital quantity takeoff software that works for you? 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Table of Contents

It doesn’t matter whether you prefer to call it material takeoff, construction takeoff or estimation takeoff, a quantity takeoff is an essential part of any building project. Whether it is a large or a small job, accurate quantity takeoffs can mean the difference between a financial disaster and a completed project that keeps everyone happy.

What is a quantity takeoff in construction?

In construction, a quantity takeoff is a list of all the physical materials necessary to complete a job and their costs. It does not consider labor costs, permits, overheads, equipment, or other incidentals. ‘Takeoff’ refers to taking information off blueprints, drawings, or models and ‘quantity’ refers to the amount of materials.

Difference between materials and quantity takeoff

Every door knob, floor tile, hinge, pipe, carpeting, length of steel, insulation, or any other fitting must be included in a material quantity takeoff list. Different materials are measured or counted differently, but everything needs to be converted into a cost estimate.

Why is it important to do a quantity takeoff?

Construction projects require a lot of time and money. For them to be profitable, every cost must be accounted for and included in the overall price. Suppose an accurate construction quantity takeoff hasn’t been performed. If that’s the case, then you might find yourself overbudget and out of pocket. Overestimating can result in you losing bids.

During what stage should a quantity takeoff be completed?

The quantity takeoff should be done early in the process, before offering any quotes or bids. Without one, you won’t know what your profit is or if you will be making a loss. Your material quantity takeoff may have to be redone several times as changes are made, to ensure a good profit margin remains and your clients are happy.

Who is responsible for doing a project’s quantity takeoff?

Anyone in charge of a project that requires materials needs to perform a quantity takeoff. A baker needs to consider the cost of ingredients when quoting the price of a wedding cake. In construction, builders, estimators, architects, engineers and construction managers must ensure they are allowing for the right amount of materials and their costs within the project budget.

What measurements are required?

When manufacturers make a product, they sell them in the way most appropriate for the product. For example, you don’t buy a length of nails or a box of timber. So, you must measure the various materials in different ways. You cannot count drywall like you count doorknobs, nor do you determine carpet size in the same way you calculate how much piping you need.

Unit count

Items like lights, pipe fittings, hinges, doors, or power points are materials counted in units. With items like nails, a unit consists of 500 or a unit can be an individual object, like air conditioners, or windows. Sometimes the same item can come in different sizes, which usually have their own costs. This means the items need to be tallied up in their own size and cost group.

Linear length

Although you can count pipes, electrical wiring, or pieces of steel, suppliers sell them according to length. So, you have to calculate the amount by the linear length.

Surface area

To calculate the amount of material to cover an area, like carpet, the space’s length and width is multiplied to find the surface area. This process is used when taking off roof quantities.

Cubic volume

When filling space, such as with concrete or blow-in insulation, the measurements required are length x width x height. This calculation will result in the cubic volume of the material, allowing you to calculate its cost estimation accurately.

Physical weight

Materials like sand or backfill come in weight measurements, such as a ton of sand. They are usually purchased in a standard amount and an overestimation is needed to ensure enough quantity is ordered.

How to do a quantity takeoff – the basics

Preparing a quantity takeoff involves converting blueprints into data or taking off quantities from drawings. It begins with counting the materials the project needs and converting them into a cost, which is then used in creating a quote or it can be used to calculate the project’s budget. The first step is to understand what materials are needed for the project and then to quantify them.

Understand what needs to be counted

You, your estimator, or Quantity Surveyor must count every item that is sold in units and list them. For example, 1 reverse-cycle air conditioner, 3 boxes of roofing nails, or 12 silver doorknobs.

Take measurements

It is the same for materials that are bought by length, weight, area, or volume, they need to be measured, priced, and the calculation added to the material takeoff list.

Calculate the takeoff

Once the material quantity takeoff list is completed the data must be converted into a dollar amount. This means knowing how much the supplier charges for each item, or the cost per length, weight, or by volume and calculating the cost by quantity. The prices of doorknobs can vary greatly depending on the quality and style of the product. So, detailed descriptions and accurate pricing is crucial in creating a precise quantity takeoff. Buying 30 plain doorknobs at $17 each is greatly different to 30 locking doorknobs at $45 each. One simple pricing error like this would put the budget out by $840. So, you can imagine the blowout if we weren’t talking doorknobs, but something really expensive or you repeatedly miss materials. Detail and accuracy are key to a quantity takeoff.

Different types of quantity takeoffs

There used to be only one way of performing a quantity takeoff and that was manually. A skilled Quantity Surveyor would assess the materials needed, formulate a cost, and they would pick up on any mistakes or issues along the way. However, advancements in technology have improved the efficiency of quantity takeoffs, making the process a lot quicker and improving its accuracy.

Manual quantity takeoff

A manual quantity takeoff relies on the knowledge and skills of the person performing it. When they are retrieving the quantity takeoff data from a drawing or blueprint, they must convert the pictures into 3D in their mind. They have to be creative and critical thinkers to perform this process. Takeoff quantity surveying is time-consuming if it is to be detailed and accurate. Anything rushed could be missing quantities or issues may not be identified. The Quantity Surveyor cannot miss any materials, items, or quantities if they do the project budget will be out. They also need to have good knowledge of the product price, quantity discounts, and any other variables that can alter the overall costs.

Digital quantity takeoff

Today, there is estimation software to help produce a quality quantity takeoff. Up-to-date price lists can be uploaded so costs are always correct. However, the biggest advantage of digital quantity takeoffs is the accuracy and speed that they can be completed. They still need data to be entered manually and a good operator will pick up errors that the software doesn’t recognize, like measuring errors. So, even a digital quantity takeoff is dependent on human interaction, but it can hold much more knowledge, be a lot faster and more accurate than a human being doing manual takeoffs on paper or Excel.

Manual vs digital quantity takeoff

For construction projects, top-quality quantity takeoff software is indispensable. It removes a lot of the complications, is much faster and accurate. It takes a lot of human error out of the process, although it still needs someone to enter data and check for mistakes. A manual quantity takeoff is more time-consuming, relies heavily on skills and knowledge, and any changes can add sufficiently more time to the process. Whereas a digital takeoff can be repeated with relative speed and ease.

A quantity takeoff is an important aspect to any project that has a budget or for making project bids. Without accurate quantity takeoff software, you could find your project under budget – costing you money, or over budget – losing you work.

Want a digital quantity takeoff software that works for you?

Don’t let inaccurate estimates and material costs derail your business. Try Buildxact’s quantity takeoff software today. Get your 14-day free trial or book a demo and see how we can help save your business time and money. We are the construction management and estimating software experts helping builders, contractors, and remodelers get the most accurate quantity takeoffs in the quickest time.

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5 tips to increase your efficiency and maximize your profit

Estimating is one of the most challenging — and time-consuming— yet essential elements of the job.The accuracy, or lack of it, can make or break a business’s profitability. Accurate estimating takes time, practice, skill, and reliable data because not every job is the same. An accurate estimate helps boost your construction business’s average profit margin.

April 16, 2021

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (220)

3 construction project management tips that will improve efficiency

For most small builders, remodelers, and contractors, the owner does all the duties of a project manager and a whole lot more. There are ways to automate many of the functions of a typicalconstruction project manager, achieves. Project management software allows you to save time and become more productive to handle more construction projects and have time for yourself.

March 26, 2021

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (221)

ProSales 100 Conference recap: The game has changed in your favor

While the industry continues to expand, technology remains a catalyst for crucial industries, including the built environment and one of the largest and most influential groups today: millennials. Not only are they able to adopt new technology quickly, but they are also ready to buy a home.

March 22, 2021

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (222)

How to choose the best construction software for a small business

Even though you may only focus on estimating projects at the moment, think about where your business will be in a year’s time. Getting started with a new software platform takes time, and once in place, it may be hard to replace; so make sure you choose one that will support your business as it scales over time.

March 15, 2021

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (223)

5 major construction industry challenges right now

The hardest part of being a successful builder and business owner is not the craft of building. It’s the day-to-day running and growing your business. The issues facing the construction industry affect large and small companies alike

February 18, 2021

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (224)

Online tutorials help Dallas builder quickly learn Buildxact

Buildxactsolved Matthew’s need for speed and accuracy from takeoffs to the bidding process. He’s fielding few phone calls and clarifying fewer details becauseBuildxactlays everythingthat needs to be bid. Accuracy has become more and more critical forbuilders because a little mistake five years ago is a huge mistake in today’s environment when it comes to material costs.

January 12, 2021

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (225)

With digital takeoffs, builder speeds up material purchasing

With Buildxact, Jeremy has found a way to dramatically speed up construction projects, starting with creating his own takeoffs.And there’s a lot less disconnect with suppliers. Buildxact lists everything in the takeoff speeding up the time it takes both subs and suppliers to submit bids.

January 12, 2021

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (226)

The importance of construction cost estimation

Creating an accurate construction estimate takes practice, skill and reliable data because each job has different variables. It remains one of the most challenging yet most important skills in construction. A recent study by Quickbooks determined that just two or three inaccurate estimates can be detrimental to a business.

January 5, 2021

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (227)

The right software makes custom quotes a time saver

Estimating is one of the most critical components of running a profitable business. It’s essential to be as accurate as possible and using software like Buildxact automates formulas you may use on a spreadsheet into a streamlined process.

December 2, 2020

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (228)

Construction project management software: complete guide

There are ways to automate many of the functions of a typicalconstruction project manager. Project management software allows you to save time and become more productive to handle more work and have time for yourself.

October 7, 2020

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (229)

Our guide to estimating software for builders & remodelers

There are several estimating software systems on the market today, and many specific to theresidentialconstruction industry like Buildxact. Designed for the small builder, remodeler, and contractor, Buildxact offers an easy-to-use construction estimating software, as an integral part of an affordable construction management platform.

October 6, 2020

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (230)

Construction takeoff: your complete guide to construction takeoffs

Cloud-based construction takeoff software allows you to speed up the process while not compromising accuracy. Top-notch accuracy can make a big difference for a custom home builder’s bottom line since they will have the capacity to take on more work because they have more time.

September 4, 2020

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (231)

5 ways to stay productive during Coronavirus

While the construction industry is considered an essential business, it hasn’t been immune to change and work productivity. As a result, many construction business owners, both large and small, have a newfound resource: time.

August 25, 2020

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (234)

Impacts of Coronavirus on the building industry

The pandemic is forcing the construction industry to evolve now more than ever, and that includes technology, whether its new or enhanced. No matter what size business you own,make a planto change how you do business because your customers expect it.

August 11, 2020

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (235)

Why small builders should invest in cloud-based construction software

Business decisions are won or lost on the strength of their return on investment. It’s no different if you’re a small builder or remodeler looking toincrease profitandtake your business to the next level.Investing in cloud-based construction software is a cost-effective way to help make this a reality.

August 8, 2020

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (240)

3 reasons why small builders use estimating software

The best construction estimating and project management software is the one that addresses the needs of your business. If your construction business needs help with project management, there are programs, like Buildxact, that offer project management tools to help employees work more efficiently.

May 18, 2020

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What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? (2024)

FAQs

What is a quantity takeoff and how are they done? ›

Quantity take-offs (QTO) are a detailed measurement of materials and labor needed to complete a construction project. They are developed by an estimator during the pre-construction phase. This process includes breaking the project down into smaller and more manageable units that are easier to measure or estimate.

What is the quantity takeoff process? ›

What is a quantity takeoff in construction? In construction, a quantity takeoff is a list of all the physical materials necessary to complete a job and their costs. It does not consider labor costs, permits, overheads, equipment, or other incidentals.

What is the best way of performing the quantity takeoff? ›

Measuring and Calculating by Hand:In manual quantity takeoff methods, professionals physically measure and quantify various components of a construction project. This can include measuring lengths, areas, volumes, and quantities of materials, such as bricks, concrete, steel, or piping.

What are the two methods of taking off quantities in building project? ›

The Importance of Accuracy in Quantity Takeoffs

You have two main material takeoff options. The first is using the old and antiquated manual method. The other is using a modern and more accurate digital takeoff system.

What is the process for take off? ›

Takeoff is the phase of flight in which an aircraft goes through a transition from moving along the ground (taxiing) to flying in the air, usually starting on a runway. Usually the engines are run at full power during takeoff. Following the taxi motion, the aircraft stops at the starting line of the runway.

What is the difference between quantity takeoff and material takeoff? ›

Material takeoff is constrained to the quantity of material one needs to purchase to complete a particular project. Quantity takeoffs include material takeoffs as well as anything else the project might need for successful completion.

What is the method of taking out quantities? ›

The quantities like earth work, foundation concrete, brickwork in plinth and super structure etc., can be workout by any of following two methods: Long wall - short wall method. Centre line method. Partly centre line and short wall method.

What is the difference between a full detailed estimate and a quantity takeoff? ›

In summary, a quantity takeoff focuses on determining the physical quantities of construction components, while a full detailed estimate combines the quantity takeoff with cost estimation to provide a comprehensive understanding of the project's costs and pricing.

What is an example of a material quantity takeoff? ›

For example, “100 cubic yards of 3000 psi concrete” may be adequate for a materials takeoff, but information about what the concrete is to be used for is required in a cost estimate takeoff. Many work items measured in a quantity takeoff do not involve materials at all.

What is the difference between quantity takeoff and BOQ? ›

1. Quantity/Material Takeoff Sheet (MTO): a list of materials with quantities and types required to build a structure. 2. Bill of Quantities (BOQ): a detailed statement of work, prices, and dimensions, required to build a structure.

What is a quantity Takeoff? ›

Quantity take-offs (QTO) are a detailed measurement of materials and labor needed to complete a construction project. They are developed by an estimator during the pre-construction phase. This process includes breaking the project down into smaller and more manageable units that are easier to measure or estimate.

What is the objective of a quantity takeoff? ›

Quantity takeoff refers to the process of estimating drawings, plans, materials, etc., to deliver an accurate forecast for construction costs. The quantity takeoff is the first step in arriving at a fully detailed estimate, with the second step being forecasting costs based on the takeoff.

What is the taking off process? ›

The term 'taking off' or 'take off' or 'takeoff' refers to the process of identifying and quantifying elements of construction works that can be measured and priced. This can be used to produce bills of quantities that can be issued to tenderers for them to prepare a price for carrying out the works.

What is the difference between a quantity takeoff and a full estimate? ›

In summary, a quantity takeoff focuses on determining the physical quantities of construction components, while a full detailed estimate combines the quantity takeoff with cost estimation to provide a comprehensive understanding of the project's costs and pricing.

What is the definition of taking off in quantity surveying? ›

The term 'taking off' refers to the process of identifying elements of construction works that can be measured and priced. This is necessary to produce bills of quantities and requires that the design is complete and a specification has been prepared.

What are the three phases of takeoff? ›

Although the takeoff and climb is one continuous maneuver, it will be divided into three separate steps for purposes of explanation: 1.) takeoff roll; 2.) lift-off; and 3.) initial climb after becoming airborne.

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