Estimating Course
How to Do a Takeoff from Blueprints
A takeoff is the list of quantities you pull from the drawings so you can price the work. It decides how accurate the whole estimate can be.
Step by step
Start with the drawing index and the scale on each sheet. Pick one trade or one kind of item at a time. Count items such as outlets, doors or fixtures. Measure runs such as conduit, pipe or wall length. Measure surfaces such as floors, ceilings or walls in area. Mark what you have counted so nothing is counted twice.
Keep it checkable
Write down where each number came from, sheet and location, so a second person can check it. Read the specifications along with the drawings, because a note on one sheet can change a quantity on another.
Take it further
In PoPs Estimating, takeoff happens on the drawing with Count, Linear Feet and Square Feet, and feeds the bid summary. See affordable estimating software for small contractors. To practice on a full drawing set, follow the PoPs Estimating Course, which is in development and not accredited.
FAQ
What are the three kinds of takeoff measurements?
Counts for items, linear feet for runs, and square feet for areas.
Why do I read the specifications too?
A note in the specifications can change a quantity or material shown on the drawings.