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Types of Construction Takeoffs

Picture of Madison Faulkner By  Madison Faulkner  ·  2 minute read

 

Takeoff Monkey blog header image: GIF of OST takeoff software example of landscape takeoff
Takeoff Monkey sample Bluebeam project for landscape takeoff

 

Construction takeoffs refer to the process of quantifying the amount of materials required for a construction project. It's an important step in estimating the cost of a project. If you underestimate the cost of your bid then you'll be over budget and have to make significant change orders which may make your client hesitant to work with you again. Crafting an accurate takeoff and staying within the original budget builds trust with your client as they'll perceive you as more experienced.

There are different types of construction takeoffs that can be performed depending on the nature of the project and the level of detail required. Here are some of the most common types:

 

  1. Area takeoff: This type of takeoff is used when estimating materials for projects that involve flat surfaces, such as flooring, roofing, or painting. The estimator calculates the total area to be covered and estimates the amount of materials required based on the area.

  2. Linear takeoff: This type of takeoff is used when estimating materials for projects that involve linear surfaces, such as fencing, piping, or wiring. The estimator calculates the total length of the surface to be covered and estimates the amount of materials required based on the length.

  3. Count takeoff: This type of takeoff is used when estimating materials for projects that involve discrete items, such as light fixtures, electrical outlets, or doors. The estimator calculates the number of items required and estimates the amount of materials needed based on the count.

  4. Assembly takeoff: This type of takeoff is used when estimating materials for complex projects that involve multiple components or assemblies, such as HVAC systems or electrical panels. The estimator calculates the quantity of each component needed and estimates the amount of materials required for the entire assembly.

Takeoff Monkey blog header image: Sample deliverables from Takeoff Monkey for landscape takeoff
Takeoff Monkey sample deliverables for landscape takeoff

 

As you're already aware, each construction project is unique. Oftentimes estimators use a variety of takeoffs types for one bid. An estimator who is dealing with metal edging can be working in linear-feet, square-feet (area calculations) and in material counts. Example being if you have 100 linear feet of metal edging, you could specify you need 10 pieces of edging to cover 100 linear feet of area.

The type of takeoff used depends on the specific needs and requirements of the construction project, and the level of detail needed to accurately estimate the cost of the project. As a project scales, the importance of having an accurate takeoff increases. Large commercial projects require a high attention to detail. Takeoff Monkey specializes in commercial takeoffs for division 32 trades (exterior improvements). Share your next irrigation, landscape or concrete takeoff with our team. We promise you'll be impressed with our quality assurance process. Contact our team today to start a free trial.