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Running Your First Takeoff - A Comprehensive Guide
Running Your First Takeoff - A Comprehensive Guide

Start your learning journey with a thorough understanding of Square Takeoff, providing you with essential knowledge to get started!

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Written by Square Takeoff
Updated over 3 months ago

Create a Project

  1. Go to Job Management: Navigate to the "Job Management" section in your dashboard.

  2. Select "Create New Project": Click on the "Create New Project" button to start your new project.

Upload Plans

  • Option 1: Upload File:

    • Upload a standard file or plan set.

    • Supported file formats: JPEG, TIFF, PNG, BMP, GIF, and PDF.

  • Option 2: Google Maps:

    • Start with a Google image.

    • Click the "Google" icon, search by property address (address, city, state, and zip).

    • Zoom in and select "Export" to use the Google image. The image will be pre-scaled based on Google’s satellite imaging.

  • Option 3: Blank Page:

    • Use a blank canvas for your takeoff.

    • Ideal for remodelers creating a "rough takeoff."

    • For more details, see: How to Run a Takeoff Without a Plan.


Scale Plans

Scaling your plans is a fundamental aspect of takeoff. Without an accurate and appropriate scale, your takeoff's are doomed to fail. Square Takeoff provides scaling options in both Imperial and Metric. Once you have selected the measurement type there are two options to scale your plans

Manually Scale Off Measurement:

This option allows you to scale your plans based on a known measurement. This option is the most accurate way to scale your plans, however it does take more time to apply.

  • Step 1: Type in the measurement you would like to scale to

  • Step 2: Select Start

  • Step 3: left click at the beginning of your line and left click at the end of your line.

Manual Scale Off Measurement Demonstration

Page Scale:

  • This method is faster than manual scaling but carries some risk. The accuracy depends on the digital file's integrity. We recommend verifying the scale using the "Dimension Tool" on at least two known measurements after setting the scale.

  • Step 1: Find the page scale of your plan.

  • Step 2: Select Scale > Set Scale Via Page Scale > Choose the corresponding scale.

  • Step 3: Click "Start."

  • Step 4: Go to Tools > Dimension Tool and check a known measurement on the plan.n

Page Scale Demonstration


Basic Measurements v/s Assemblies

Understanding the distinction between basic takeoff measurements and assemblies is crucial for efficient use of Square Takeoff.

Basic Measurements

At the top of your page, you'll see icons for Area, Linear, and Count tools. These are your basic takeoff measurement tools, allowing you to quickly perform takeoffs with minimal setup:

  • Select Tool: Choose Area, Linear, or Count.

  • Adjust Measurement Type: Set the measurement type based on your application.

  • Set Price: Adjust the price per square foot, linear foot, or count.

  • Apply Measurement: Click on your plan to apply the measurement.

Basic Measurements Types

There are various measurements types for each basic takeoff measurement tool. Below is a breakdown of each.

Area Tool Options: Standard Area, Roof Area, and Volume.

Linear Tool Options: Standard Linear, Wall Area, Volume and Hip & Valley Tool

Count Options: Standard Count, Volume Count (allows you to make a volume count using cube or cylinder)

Takeoff Report

To export a breakdown of your Basic Takeoff Measurement's follow this step by step guide.

  1. Access Reports: Go to "Reports" and select "Takeoff."

  2. Export Options: Choose to export the report as an HTML or Excel file

  3. Review Download: Review the downloaded HTML or CSV file.

Takeoff Report Demonstration


Assembly Measurements

Assemblies offer a more advanced method for calculating multiple items in a single measurement.

When you first sign up for Square takeoff you are provided with three templates. The Square Takeoff Starter Package, The Square Takeoff Metric Starter Package, and the Basic Measurements. Here's how to use them:

What is an Assembly?

An assembly is a measurement that, when applied to a plan, runs through a formula to output quantities for materials, labor, equipment, etc. Assemblies are customizable and can handle complex calculations, making them ideal for detailed project estimates.

How to Apply an Assembly

  1. Navigate to Templates: Click the "Templates" tab next to "Pages."

  2. Select a Folder: Browse through the relevant starter package folders.

  3. Choose an Assembly: Find the assembly you want to apply.

  4. Click the Green Play Button: This prepares the assembly for application.

  5. Select Start: Begin the assembly process.

  6. Customize Parts: Adjust the properties within the assembly parts to match your project specifications.

  7. Save Settings: Click "Save" to store your changes.

  8. Apply Measurement: Left-click all points on the plan where you want to apply the assembly measurement.

  9. Finish: Click "Stop" to complete the process.

Assembly Demonstration

Estimate Report

To export a detailed breakdown of your Assembly Measurements, follow this step-by-step guide:

  1. Access Reports: Go to "Reports" and select "Estimate."

  2. Grouping Options: You can choose to group your estimate report in various ways using the grouping drop down in the top right.

  3. Export Options: Choose to export the report as an Excel by selecting "Export to Excel" or PDF file by selecting "Print"

  4. Review Download: Review the downloaded Excel or PDF file for accuracy.

Estimate Report Demonstration

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