Overview
This guide explains how to create your own Joist Tool Parts and Roof Rafter Tool Parts within Square Takeoff, allowing you to customize and manage these elements for your specific needs. The original joist and roof rafter catalogs are non-editable. The process to create you own joist/rafter part catalog involves accessing the Parts Catalog, duplicating existing items, and modifying them to fit your requirements, such as adjusting costs, markup, and material specifications.
Key Steps
Accessing the Parts Catalog
Navigate to the Parts Catalog:
Go to the Estimating dropdown on the left-hand side and select Parts Catalog.
Understand Pre-Built Tool Parts:
Within the catalog, you’ll find pre-built Joist Tool Parts and Roof Rafter Tool Parts provided and maintained by Square Takeoff. These parts are non-editable to ensure consistency and reliability across all users.
Creating a Custom Catalog
Add a New Catalog:
Select Add New Catalog at the top of the screen.
Name your catalog (e.g., "My Roof Rafters") to distinguish it from the default catalogs.
Provide a description (this can be brief) and select the Manufacturer (typically "General").
Important: Choose the appropriate Catalog Type based on the tool you’ll be using (e.g., Joist Catalog Roof for roof rafters).
Save Your New Catalog:
Click Save to create the catalog.
Adding and Duplicating Tool Parts
Duplicate Existing Parts:
To add items to your custom catalog, open the existing Roof Rafter Tool Parts or Joist Tool Parts.
Left-click and drag the desired item (e.g., a 2x6 roof rafter) into your new catalog, then release it.
Refresh to View Items:
After copying, refresh the page by clicking back into the Parts Catalog. Your new catalog should now display the duplicated items.
Editing Catalog Parts
Adjust Costs and Markup:
Select Edit on the desired part, go to Properties, and navigate to the Estimating Group.
Here, you can adjust the Cost Each and Markup percentage to fit your project needs.
Save changes and repeat for each part within your custom catalog.
Modify Part Names and Part Numbers:
If you need different-sized materials (e.g., 2x14 floor joists), duplicate the nearest match and rename the folder and parts to reflect the new size.
Update part names and part numbers to ensure accuracy in reporting.
Common Customization Requirements
Creating Custom Roof Rafter Systems: Utilize this process to create custom roof rafter or joists sized that meet specific engineering or regional requirements.
Managing Costs: Creating your own catalog allows you to adjust costs and markup directly in your catalog. The original parts within the joist tool and roof rafter tool catalogs are non editable, as they are maintained by Square Takeoff.