Regardless of the nature and scope of the project, it is accomplished when the measurements are done accurately. When discussing construction projects, the construction takeoff is crucial. An accurate construction takeoff is vital to any construction project, especially in cost estimation. It enables the construction contractors to simplify the project by breaking down the project into several components of cost estimates.
However, it is essential to understand the significance of construction takeoff and how to implement the technology for an accurate takeoff. This article highlights the proper methodology for construction takeoff and other factors linked to it.
What Is Construction Takeoff?
Construction takeoff is calculating all the direct costs (material, labor, equipment) and indirect costs (fees, insurance, overheads) involved in any construction project. It is also known as a quantity or material takeoff and is done in the early phase of construction, even before initiating the project. It provides a roadmap for the project and keeps it on track.
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Who Is Involved In Construction Takeoff?
All the staff involved in the construction project should count for the construction takeoff process. To begin any construction project, an accurate and precise cost estimate must be developed to gain insight into the correct information. Regardless of the size and span of the project, the first step involves calculating the cost of all the required materials.
The essential staff involved in the construction takeoffs comprise architects, contractors, cost estimators, and engineers. Depending on the project type, a project might need more staff to oversee the quantity takeoffs in a project. These include:
- Urban master planners
- Home renovators or residential home builders
- Rail transportation engineers
- Landscapers
- Highway engineers
- Utility contractors
How To Do Construction Takeoffs
Preparing a construction takeoff involves converting the project blueprints and designs into data points and using that information to streamline the project. It begins with counting and listing the required materials to reach a final cost estimate. That cost estimate is later used to create a quotation or prepare a budget estimate for the construction project. For this purpose, it is essential to understand which materials are required and how to quantify them.
Understand what needs to be counted.
The first step is to understand the construction project. The construction cost estimators should thoroughly review all the bid documents, including project designs, engineering plans, and contracts. The person in charge of the takeoff process may not necessarily be in charge of the project’s requirements. That’s why the estimators should count every item present in boxes and list them—for example, one reverse-cycle air conditioner, three boxes of roofing nails, or 12 silver doorknobs.
Divide the work into sections.
This practice is most useful in the case of massive and complex construction projects. This involves a breakdown of the construction project into various sections and compartments that are easy to manage. For example, some construction projects may be divided into floors or, in the case of complex projects, by buildings.
But this process doesn’t stop here. After the broad grouping, the materials are further categorized into assemblies, which are smaller project components. For example, while measuring the perimeter wall, the contractor must measure diverse materials like concrete, bricks, etc., which must be assembled beforehand.
Take measurements
The process is the same for materials bought by length, weight, area, or volume; they need to be measured and priced, and the calculation added to the material takeoff list.
Calculate the takeoff
Once the material takeoff is completed, it’s time to convert the amounts and quantities into dollars. This includes the cost per length, cost per weight, cost per number, and the contractors’ charges. However, it’s essential to balance the costs and quality so that there are no future delays or cost overruns.
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What Measurements Are Required?
When the fabricators manufacture a product, they sell it in the most appropriate way, which is way more feasible and demanding in the market. For example, you don’t purchase a whole box of concrete or bars of iron ores. You can’t measure the paint estimates just like you do the carpet or the doors. So accurate and correct measurements are crucial.
Unit Count
The unit count must include items like doors, windows, bars, nails, pipe fittings, hinges, and power points. For items like nails and hinges, one unit consists of 500 units, while some items, like air conditioners, generators, etc., need to be purchased individually. Occasionally, the same item comes in diverse sizes. So, you need accurate measurements to customize the items to your requirements and specifications.
Linear Length
Although some items, such as pipe fittings, iron bars, electrical wiring, and steel pieces, can be counted on, they are sold in the market according to their lengths. Therefore, you need to measure them accurately.
Surface Area
For materials like carpet and concrete roofs, exact measurements of all dimensions are needed to cover the space. This is done by multiplying their lengths by widths, which is useful when calculating roof takeoff quantities.
Cubic Volume
When filling space, such as with concrete or blow-in insulation, the necessary measurements are accomplished by multiplying the dimensions length, width, and height. This calculation yields the material’s cubic volume, allowing you to calculate its cost estimation precisely.
Physical Weight
Materials like sand or backfill are measured according to their weights, such as a ton of sand. They are generally bought in a standard amount, and an overestimation is required to ensure the procurement of ample material in case of material wastage and spillage.
Conclusion
Construction takeoffs are an integral component of any construction project. However, knowing the right way to do construction takeoffs can help keep the construction project on track and help it navigate the path to success. At Total Scope Estimating, we have a skilled team of estimators with experience and expertise to handle all kinds of construction takeoffs for you.
