In the construction industry, where multiple businesses are competing for the same project, accuracy and speed give you the edge. Traditional takeoff methods can be time-consuming and prone to human error, resulting in lost bids and reduced potential revenue.
AI takeoff software is gaining traction as a solution to the risks associated with manual takeoffs. By auto-reading plans, sets, and specifications, auto-detecting addenda, streamlining revisions, and saving valuable hours, AI takeoff software helps estimators, contractors, and business owners submit accurate proposals and bids with higher confidence.
But how do contractors really feel about using AI in their takeoffs? Understanding the pros, cons, and real-world experiences is essential before making the switch.
What is AI takeoff software?
AI-based takeoff software is a tool that automatically analyzes and quantifies materials directly from digital blueprints and drawings. This type of software cuts out the manual effort of tracing and counting entirely.
- Auto-read spec details and plan sets
- Generate material quantities with minimal human input
- Update takeoffs automatically whenever addenda arrive
- Real-time team collaboration
Pros of using AI takeoff software
Construction businesses that use AI-based takeoff software often cite several benefits:
- Time savings: Automating measurements and calculations significantly cuts down the hours spent on takeoffs.
- Improved accuracy: Auto-reading and change detection reduce human errors, making takeoffs and estimates more accurate.
- Enhanced collaboration: Cloud-based AI tools allow multiple team members to access and update data simultaneously.
- Scalability: AI-based takeoff software can handle multiple projects simultaneously, allowing businesses to bid more without adding headcount.
These advantages make AI-powered takeoffs particularly appealing for contractors seeking to enhance efficiency and minimize costly errors.
Cons of using AI takeoff software
Despite the benefits, contractors also face challenges when implementing AI takeoff software:
- Initial learning curve: Teams might take some time to adapt to new tools. This may initially dip the productivity. That is why it is essential to choose a platform that’s intuitive and easy to adopt. Need help deciding? Don’t miss our blog on choosing takeoff software your team will actually enjoy using.
- Can be costly: I solutions can involve significant upfront investment, which may be a barrier for smaller firms.
What contractors really think?
Contractor feedback reveals that while AI takeoff software is transformative, adoption varies by experience, project type, and firm size. Common observations include:
- Teams save hours per project, but they need initial training to use the tools effectively.
- AI excels at repetitive measurements but may require human oversight for complex layouts.
- Firms using AI notice reduced material waste and more accurate bids, which improves their profit margins.
- Some smaller contractors hesitate to adopt AI due to concerns about cost or comfort levels with technology.
Overall, contractors acknowledge that AI is a valuable tool but works best when combined with skilled estimation and project management practices.
Beam AI: Best takeoff software for construction estimators
Beam AI is the ONLY AI-based construction takeoff software that saves 90% time and helps you bid on 2x more jobs, without adding headcount.
With Beam AI automated takeoffs, construction teams can:
- Get bid-ready, QA-checked outputs in 24-72 hours
- Auto-detect addenda, streamlining revisions, and saving valuable hours
- Easily switch between automated & manual takeoff methods
Want to know how Beam AI can help your business? Book a demo now.
FAQs
Can AI do takeoffs?
Yes, absolutely. AI can do takeoffs. AI-based takeoff software tools, such as Beam AI, are completely automating the takeoff process. All you need to do is upload plans and define the scope – AI handles the entire takeoff for you, providing bid-ready outputs.
What is AI takeoff software?
It’s a tool that utilizes artificial intelligence to measure and quantify materials from plans, automating the takeoff process for faster and more accurate estimates.
Can AI takeoff software handle complex projects?
Yes, AI is scalable and can manage both small and large projects, but human oversight is recommended for intricate designs.
