What’s the Fastest Way to Do Takeoffs from Drawings?

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Takeoffs are one of the most time-consuming parts of preparing a plumbing estimate. Measuring pipe runs, fixture locations, and fittings from drawings manually can be slow and prone to errors. If you’re spending too much time on takeoffs, you need a faster, more efficient approach.

The good news? With the right tools and workflow, you can cut your takeoff time in half while maintaining accuracy. Here’s how.

01Use Digital Takeoff Software

If you’re still doing takeoffs with a ruler and highlighters, you’re wasting valuable hours. Digital takeoff software speeds up the process significantly by allowing you to measure and count items directly from the PDF or CAD drawings.

Best Takeoff Software for Speed

• Planswift – Fast, easy-to-use, and integrates well with Excel.
• Bluebeam Revu – Great for marking up plans and collaborating.
• CostX – More advanced, ideal for large commercial projects.
• Cubit – Quick for takeoffs, especially if you supply fixtures.

Tip If you’re used to working in Excel, Planswift, Bluebeam, and CostX allow you to link your takeoff data to an Excel spreadsheet, so you don’t have to enter measurements twice.

Disclaimer New takeoff software and updates are released regularly. The best tool for you will depend on your workflow and project type.

02Set Up Your Drawings for Fast Takeoff

Before starting the takeoff, prepare the drawings properly to avoid wasting time.

• Convert PDFs to high-quality format – Low-quality scans can cause measurement errors.
• Calibrate the scale correctly – One wrong setting can throw off your entire estimate.
• Organise layers – Hide unnecessary details to focus only on plumbing elements.
• Colour-code different services – For example, use red for hot water, blue for cold, and purple for sewer lines.

03Use Pre-Built Takeoff Templates

Most plumbing jobs have repeatable components like pipe runs, fittings, and fixtures. Instead of measuring each one manually, create pre-built takeoff templates with common measurements.

Example Instead of measuring each basin separately, have a preset quantity for “Standard Bathroom – 3 Basins, 1 Toilet, 1 Shower.”

This way, you just drag and drop items into the takeoff instead of manually selecting each one.

04Use Auto-Count for Fixtures and Fittings

Some takeoff software (like Bluebeam and CostX) has an auto-count feature that detects identical symbols on drawings, such as:

• Toilets
• Sinks
• Showers
• Floor wastes
• Water meters

Instead of counting manually, let the software count for you and verify the total.

Tip This works best when the drawing symbols are clear and consistent. Always double-check the count before finalizing your estimate.

05Use a Two-Screen Setup

If you’re working on one screen, you’re constantly switching between windows, which slows you down. A dual-screen setup can make takeoffs up to 30% faster.

• Screen 1: Display the takeoff software.
• Screen 2: Keep your pricing spreadsheet, notes, or job specifications open.

This way, you don’t waste time toggling between windows when checking details.

06Speed Up Pipe Length Measurements

Measuring pipe lengths can be one of the slowest parts of a takeoff. Here’s how to do it faster:

• Use continuous line measurement tools – Most software lets you measure pipe runs with a single drag instead of clicking point by point.
• Group similar services together – Measure all hot water lines first, then cold water, then drainage to avoid switching layers constantly.
• Use snapping tools – Some software (like CostX) lets you snap to existing lines for precise measurements without re-drawing.

07Link Takeoff Data Directly to Excel

If you use Excel for estimating, choose a takeoff software that integrates with it.

• Planswift, Bluebeam, and CostX allow you to link measurements directly to Excel cells, so data automatically updates without double entry.
• This eliminates copy-pasting errors and speeds up BOQ creation.

Example Measure 100m of 100mm PVC pipe in Planswift → Data automatically appears in your Excel estimate without manual input.

08Use a Tablet with a Stylus for Faster Markups

If you prefer working on touchscreens, using a tablet with a stylus (like an iPad with Bluebeam Revu or a Microsoft Surface) can speed up marking up plans.

• Faster annotations – Quickly circle problem areas or note variations.
• Easier on-site changes – Make edits on the go without reprinting.
• More natural workflow – If you’re used to paper drawings, this feels similar.

09Reduce Double-Handling of Data

Many estimators waste time re-entering data from one system to another. Avoid this by:

• Using software that integrates with your estimating process (e.g., linking takeoff to Excel)
• Saving commonly used takeoffs as templates for future jobs.
• Automating calculations so you don’t manually total measurements.

The less manual data entry you do, the faster your takeoffs will be.

10Practice and Improve Your Workflow

Takeoff speed isn’t just about software—it’s also about how efficiently you work.

• Set a time limit for each takeoff to stay focused.
• Use keyboard shortcuts to navigate software faster.
• Review your workflow regularly to eliminate unnecessary steps.

Example If a takeoff is taking too long, analyse which steps are slowing you down and find ways to streamline them.

11Final Thoughts

Fast takeoffs don’t mean sloppy work—they mean being smart with your tools and workflow. Here’s how to speed up the process while maintaining accuracy:

• Use digital takeoff software instead of manual methods.
• Prepare drawings properly before starting.
• Use auto-count features for repeated symbols.
• Set up takeoff templates to avoid re-measuring.
• Use dual screens for better efficiency.
• Link takeoff software with Excel to reduce double entry.
• Practice and refine your workflow over time.

By implementing these strategies, you’ll spend less time on takeoffs and more time winning and completing jobs.

SNZ Plumbing Estimating provides accurate and efficient takeoffs, helping plumbing contractors save time and win more jobs.

• free bedding and spoil calculator
• civil and stormwater estimating
• how to calculate bedding and spoil
• why the cheapest estimate costs you most

12Related reading

• Should I Invest in Plumbing Estimating Software?
• The Honest Truth About Plumbing Estimating Software (From Someone Who Actually Uses It)
• How Do I Win Tenders for Large Plumbing Projects?
• How Do I Reduce Paperwork and Admin Time in My Plumbing Business?

Pricing a job with underground pipework?
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