Accurate planning and estimation are the foundation of any successful project. Construction takeoff plays a big part in this process by providing detailed and exact estimates of materials, costs, and scope of work. Let us explore the many benefits of construction takeoff services that will help ensure the success of your project.
What does Construction Takeoff mean?
Construction takeoff is part of the pre-construction phase. It involves the detailed process of measuring and quantifying the materials and labor required for a construction project. This is crucial for creating accurate cost estimates and staying within budget. The term “takeoff” comes from the process of “taking off” quantities from construction drawings and plans.
The objective of takeoff services is to provide a complete list of all materials needed, their quantities, specifications, and costs. This list becomes the basis for further planning, procurement, and budgeting. Takeoff can also help to identify critical issues early on in the project so adjustments can be made before construction starts.
Construction takeoff can be broken down into two types: manual and digital.
Manual takeoff services involve an estimator physically measuring drawings and blueprints with rulers and scales, counting and recording quantities by hand on paper or spreadsheets. This has some benefits, it’s cheaper because no software costs and an estimator can pick up on things an automated system might miss. However, manual takeoffs do have drawbacks. They are time consuming and labor intensive, prone to human error and generally less efficient for large or complex projects than digital.
Digital takeoff services use specialized software to measure and quantify materials directly from digital drawings and blueprints. Estimators input data into the software and it calculates quantities and costs. This has many benefits, speed and efficiency over manual takeoffs, more accurate and consistent measurements, and can integrate with other software like BIM and project management tools to create streamlined workflows. But digital takeoff services come with a higher upfront cost because of software purchases and training for staff to use the technology correctly.
Some Other Key Components Of Takeoff Services (Quantities, Materials, Costs)
Let us understand each of these components and what each of them entail.
Quantities:
- Measurement of all materials required for the project, concrete, steel, wood, drywall, etc. Measured from drawings, blueprints, or BIM models.
- Breakdown of quantities by type, size, and specification. So nothing is missed and materials can be ordered correctly.
Materials:
- Identifying exact material required, type, grade, and other special requirements such that the materials meet project specifications and quality standards.
- Identify the suppliers and availability of materials in order to plan procurement schedules and avoid material shortages.
Costs:
- Detailed cost estimation of all materials and labor. Direct costs (materials and labor) and indirect costs (overheads, contingencies).
- Create a comprehensive budget that outlines costs at every stage of the project. So we can plan financially and get funding if needed.
- Ability to compare actual costs with estimated costs throughout the project lifecycle which helps to identify variances and take corrective action.
Customers can leverage manual and digital takeoff depending on the project that will allow a more accurate and efficient planning and execution.
What are the Benefits of using Outsourced Construction Takeoff Services?
Here we list the benefits that companies will receive when they use construction takeoff services.
Time Saving
One of the biggest benefits of using takeoff services is the amount of time saved. Outsourcing takeoff gets the job started and the planning phase underway faster. This is especially important when working with tight deadlines and schedules so you meet project timelines without compromising on accuracy.
Cost estimates and Savings
Accurate material and cost estimates from takeoff mean less waste and over-ordering which means big cost savings. Accurate takeoffs mean better budgeting and financial planning so you can allocate resources correctly and keep project costs in check.
Better Project Management
Good project management is all about resource allocation and scheduling. Construction takeoff services bring project teams together, and streamline procurement and overall project management. This means less downtime and fewer disruptions and ultimately project success.
Risk Reduction
By identifying errors early in the planning phase, takeoff services help to reduce the risk associated with construction projects. This proactive approach reduces the chance of change orders and project delays and ensures project specifications are met and project timelines are kept.
Better Bidding
Accurate takeoffs create competitive bids. Precise estimates build trust with clients and stakeholders and increase the chances of winning. A well-put-together bid shows professionalism and gives confidence to potential clients.
Access to Expertise and Technology
Outsourcing construction takeoff gives you access to low cost resources and latest software to get the job done accurately and efficiently. Experienced professionals and analysts will give you valuable insights to ensure your project meets industry standards and best practices..
Overall, Outsourcing construction takeoff offers time efficiency, costing accuracy and savings, better project management, risk reduction, better bidding, and access to expertise and technology. Make use of these benefits for your construction projects. At Integra, we offer outsourced construction takeoff services with guaranteed turnaround and affordable rates. Try out our takeoff services today.
