How to Do a Construction Takeoff in TakeCost (Step-by-Step Guide)

Construction takeoffs define quantities. TakeCost is where those quantities are measured, organized, and prepared for pricing.

If you’re looking to understand what a construction takeoff is, see: How to Do a Construction Takeoff (Step-by-Step Guide).

This guide shows how the workflow is executed inside TakeCost, from starting a project to sending quantities into estimating.

Starting a Takeoff in TakeCost

There are two ways to begin, depending on how you manage your projects.

Option 1: Start from the Take-offs Tab

If you already have drawings and want to begin measuring immediately:

1. Go to Take-offs in the left menu.
2. Click New Takeoff.
3. Enter the project title or job name.
4. Upload your drawings.
5. Click Continue to Takeoff.

This is the fastest way to start measuring when you’re focused purely on quantities.

Option 2: Start from Opportunities

If you manage bids and pipeline inside TakeCost, begin from Opportunities.

1. Go to Opportunities.
2. Click New Opportunity.
3. Enter project details.
4. Upload drawings.
5. Launch the takeoff from there.

This approach keeps your:
– Client information
– Job details
– Takeoff
– Estimate
– Proposal

All tied to one tracked opportunity, providing better pipeline visibility and organization.

Step-by-Step: Performing the Takeoff

Step 1: Confirm the Scale

Before measuring:
– Set or confirm the drawing scale.
– Zoom into the correct sheet.
– Validate dimensions for accuracy.

Accurate scale is the foundation of an accurate takeoff.

Step 2: Choose a Measurement Tool

TakeCost provides tools tailored to each scope:

Linear Tool
– Walls
– Framing
– Edges
– Perimeters

Area Tool
– Slabs
– Flooring
– Roofing
– Surface materials

Counter Tool
– Doors
– Windows
– Fixtures
– Anchors

Counting methods include:
– Manual clicking
– Text Match
– List
– Symbol Match

These features make repetitive counting faster and more accurate on large plans.

Step 3: Assign or Create Materials While Measuring

Every measurement is tied to a material. You can:
– Select an existing item from the catalog
– Create a new material instantly

When creating a material, you can define:
– Material name
– Coverage type (sqft, pallet, linear ft, etc.)
– Cost per purchase unit
– Waste factor
– Metric or Imperial units
– Rounding rules

There’s no need to configure your entire catalog in advance, materials can be created as you measure, keeping the workflow efficient and natural.

Step 4: Use AI-Powered Tools to Accelerate Takeoffs

TakeCost integrates artificial intelligence to reduce manual work and improve efficiency.

AutoScale Sheets

Automatically detects and calibrates drawing scales from plan notes, minimizing setup time and human error.

Auto Sheet Naming

Reads title blocks and organizes sheets automatically for faster navigation and better project organization.

Symbol & Item Counting

Automatically counts repeated symbols such as doors, windows, fixtures, and outlets, saving hours on large projects.

1-Click Elevation Takeoffs

Instantly measures walls and elevations using AI-powered computer vision—ideal for façade and exterior scope measurements.

AI Elevation Tool (Beta)

Currently available for elevation sheets, this feature assists with repetitive measurements. Users review and confirm quantities to ensure accuracy.

These AI tools enhance productivity while keeping estimators in full control.

Step 5: Review Quantities

After measuring:
– Review totals per material
– Confirm scope completeness
– Make adjustments as needed

All quantities remain organized under their assigned materials, eliminating manual data transfers.

No exporting, no re-entering numbers.