Improving Speed and Accuracy with HVAC Computerized Estimating and On-Screen Takeoff

The Benefits of Using HVAC On-Screen Takeoff Software

Takeoffs are an essential part of any bid. While performing a ductwork takeoff is necessary, it can also be time consuming, and errors can be costly. Consider importing a digital PDF drawing file and perform a bid with HVAC Estimating Software combined with On Screen Takeoff that will save hours of labor and provide for a paperless transfer of information. Update information and track projects, change orders and transfer information to the field digitally.

What is included in an HVAC Takeoff?

An HVAC Sheet Metal Takeoff or HVAC Mechanical Takeoff requires quantifying all of the materials and labor that will be necessary for the completion of a project based on specified requirements and the appropriate construction standards for a project. A detailed material listing with associated labor cost is detailed as part of the the takeoff. In some cases hundreds to thousands of items are included in a takeoff. An error in missing items in a takeoff will result in either underbidding with too low a material and labor cost factor that may result in loosing money on a project or calculating costs too high which will cause a bid not to be considered. When performing hand takeoff it is easy to miss items as they are transferred from takeoff sheets, transferred to a bid summary sheet or simply lost in the takeoff process.

What are the Advantages of On-Screen Takeoff?

On-Screen takeoff allows for the import of PDF files and other file format which are uploaded to the On Screen takeoff software and displayed on a computer screen. The same information that is contained and displayed on a paper drawing is now displayed on the Screen Takeoff software computer screen. The takeoff process is similar to hand takeoff except that the computer software captures all of the material items and assigns labor cost based on a per item basis. Factors for project conditions are specified to account for labor variations etc. A complete data file of items, summaries and job totals are classified and included on data sheets. This information may also be transferred to custom spread sheets for review and analysis. There are significant labor saving and improved accuracy with computerized HVAC Estimating Software and Takeoff as opposed to hand estimating.