What a takeoff measures
A quantity takeoff answers one question: how much of everything is on these drawings? It converts plan sheets into a structured list that a contractor can price. Good takeoffs are boring in the best way: complete, consistent and traceable to the sheet.
| Work type | Typical units | Kansas-specific checks |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete and rebar | CY, SF, LF, tons | Footing depth for local frost line, pier depth from the geotech report |
| Framing and sheathing | LF, BF, SF, each | Wind uplift connectors and hold-downs where specified |
| Roofing | Squares, LF | Impact-rated shingles, ice and water shield at eaves and valleys |
| Drywall and ceilings | SF, LF | Fire-rated assemblies, shaft walls, level of finish |
| MEP | LF, each, tons | Fixture and device counts, duct weight, condenser hail guards |
| Sitework | CY, SY, SF | Over-excavation and lime or fly-ash stabilization in clay |
What a takeoff deliverable looks like
The table below shows the format of a takeoff line set for a small slab-on-grade building. The quantities are illustrative, not from a client project.
| Sheet | Item | Net qty | Unit | Waste | Order qty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-101 | Continuous footing, 20 in. x 12 in., 3,000 psi | 9.6 | CY | 8% | 10.4 CY |
| S-101 | Footing rebar, #5 continuous, 3 bars (155 LF) | 0.24 | Tons | 5% | 0.25 Tons |
| S-102 | Slab on grade, 5 in., 4,000 psi | 37.0 | CY | 5% | 38.9 CY |
| S-102 | 15-mil vapor retarder | 2,400 | SF | 10% | 2,640 SF |
| A-201 | Interior partition, 3-5/8 in. 20 ga studs at 16 in., 10 ft | 412 | LF | 5% | 433 LF |
| A-201 | 5/8 in. Type X gypsum board, both faces | 8,240 | SF | 12% | 9,229 SF |
Every real takeoff adds the drawing detail reference, assumptions and a marked-up PDF showing what was measured.
How our takeoffs work
We measure digitally in Bluebeam Revu, PlanSwift or On-Screen Takeoff, color-code every measured item, and tag it to the sheet and detail number. The result is a takeoff you can audit in minutes instead of re-measuring.
- You send the plan set, specifications and the scope you are bidding.
- We confirm the scope and the fee, usually the same business day.
- We measure, tag and organize quantities by CSI division or by your own cost codes.
- A second estimator spot-checks the quantities against the drawings.
- You receive Excel quantities, marked-up PDF sheets and a list of assumptions.
Net vs. order quantities
We always report net measured quantities first, then apply a stated waste factor to produce order quantities. That separation matters: your crew might waste less drywall than average, or your concrete supplier might require a minimum load. Seeing both lets you adjust with confidence. Our trade pages list the waste factors we typically apply.
Common takeoff mistakes we prevent
- Scope gaps between trades, such as blocking that falls between framing and finish carpentry, or fire caulking between drywall and MEP.
- Counting from one sheet only. Details, sections and schedules often add items that do not show on plans.
- Ignoring addenda. Every addendum is logged against the takeoff so revisions are traceable.
- Wrong footing depth. A takeoff built on a national default frost depth under-counts concrete in northeast Kansas.
Takeoff or full estimate?
If you need a number, not just quantities, see construction cost estimating. Our guide on quantity takeoff vs. cost estimate explains when each makes sense. For quick field checks, try the free concrete calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is a quantity takeoff in construction?
A quantity takeoff is a measured list of every material and work item in a set of drawings, with units such as cubic yards, square feet, linear feet, each and tons. It is the foundation of every estimate, but it does not include prices.
Why order a takeoff instead of a full estimate?
If you already price your work well, you only need reliable quantities. A takeoff costs less than a priced estimate and lets you apply your own labor productivity, material quotes and markups.
Do you include waste factors?
Yes, but separately. Each line shows the net measured quantity and the waste or lap factor we applied, so you can adjust it to match your crews and suppliers.
Can you send the takeoff in my software's format?
We work in Bluebeam Revu, PlanSwift and On-Screen Takeoff and always export to Excel. If you use another platform, Excel or CSV quantities can usually be imported directly.