Accurate estimating is one of the most critical aspects of running a successful construction business. Whether you’re quoting a residential build or a large-scale renovation, your estimates need to be reliable, consistent, and backed by real data. That’s where construction estimating and takeoff tools come in.
These tools streamline the process of measuring plans, calculating quantities, and generating quotes; saving time and reducing costly errors. While Built Simple doesn’t perform complex estimating, we help you organise your tasks and track progress in a way that supports accurate quoting workflows.
What Are Estimating and Takeoff Tools?
Estimating tools are software applications used to create cost forecasts for materials, labour, and equipment. Takeoff tools specifically help with extracting quantities from plans such as how many square metres of tiling are needed or how many studs go into a frame.
Together, they allow builders and estimators to:
- Analyse construction drawings
- Measure materials directly from PDFs or digital plans
- Create itemised cost breakdowns
- Save time versus manual calculations
Although estimating and takeoff tasks are often handled in specialised tools, having project scheduling and task tracking linked through platforms like Built Simple supports a more seamless workflow from planning to quoting.
Why Takeoff Tools Matter
Manual takeoffs are time-consuming and prone to error. Even a small miscalculation can lead to underquoting, budget overruns, or project delays.
Using digital tools reduces that risk by:
- Improving accuracy through repeatable measurements
- Reducing rework by keeping track of versions
- Allowing collaboration across teams and devices
- Speeding up revisions and updates
Looking to strengthen the entire quoting process? Our article 5 Common Mistakes in Construction Estimating (And How Tools Solve Them) outlines typical pitfalls and how to avoid them.
How Built Simple Supports Your Estimating Workflow
While Built Simple is not a full estimating platform, it plays a vital role in the ecosystem of tools builders use. Here’s how it supports estimating and takeoff workflows:
- Schedule clarity: Keep project timelines clear, so estimators know which trades are needed and when.
- Real-time updates: Ensure your project team has the latest plan versions, avoiding scope confusion.
- Job tracking: Compare estimated costs to actual work progress with simple project logs.
- Centralised documentation: Store plan sets, drawings, and supplier quotes in one secure place.
For an overview of how our platform works across the construction cycle, visit How Built Simple Works for Construction Projects.
What to Look for in Estimating and Takeoff Software
If you’re searching for dedicated takeoff and estimating tools to pair with Built Simple, here are key features to look for:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
| Plan measurement from PDFs | Speeds up quantity calculations without printing plans |
| Preloaded material databases | Reduces time spent searching for prices |
| Customisable quote templates | Allows consistent, professional client presentation |
| Integration with scheduling tools | Keeps estimates aligned with real project timelines |
| Multi-user access | Enables collaboration across office and site teams |
You can use tools like Buildxact, Cubit, or Bluebeam Revu depending on your needs. These platforms often pair well with task-oriented systems like Built Simple to complete your digital toolset.
For Builders and Contractors Just Starting Out
Not sure how to get started with digital estimating? Here’s a good first step:
- Use a simple takeoff tool for measuring your next set of plans.
- Plug your materials list into an Excel sheet or estimating app.
- Import job milestones into Built Simple to begin scheduling.
- Use Built Simple’s task reminders to keep quotes on track.
You don’t need to overhaul your entire system overnight, just make one improvement at a time.
Explore More Features
To learn more about how Built Simple connects with your quoting process, explore these key features:
- Construction Budgeting and Cost Tracking
- Construction Scheduling Software
- Job Site Collaboration Tools
Final Thoughts
Accurate estimating starts with accurate data, clear communication, and a system that keeps everything moving. While takeoff and estimating tools help you get the numbers right, Built Simple ensures the rest of your project stays on track.
Need help finding a workflow that fits your business? Get in touch with our team and we’ll guide you through the next steps.