The construction world is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) more and more. This is great news for estimators because AI can make their work easier and faster. No more manual measurements and hours of calculations!
Whether you’re an experienced pro or just starting out, this guide will show you how to choose the right AI tool and why it can give you a competitive advantage. Here are seven important things you need to know about using AI for your takeoff and estimating tasks.
How AI-Assisted Takeoff and Estimating Works
With AI-assisted takeoff tools, you can upload architectural plans to an online system. AI models, trained by humans, search through the plans to find construction elements like walls, fixtures, and areas. The more data the model processes, the more accurate it becomes. This will save you time and provide you with results that can be adjusted as needed.
Select an AI Solution That Suits Your Workflow
Not all AI-assisted tools are the same. Some you access online, while others connect with the software you already use. Choosing solutions that match your current processes means an easier transition and faster adoption. Read this blog post to learn what to look for in your takeoff and estimating software.
Speed Up Your Process with AI-Powered Takeoff
AI reviews your plan documents and automatically measures walls, calculates areas, and counts objects like doors and light fixtures. Depending on the size of your project, you could save hours or even days. With all the time you save, you can focus on refining estimates, finding the best materials, and building client relationships. Plus, you’ll have an edge over your competition with faster and more exact bids.
John Kulger from Nibbi Brothers General Contractors used On-Screen Takeoff® with Takeoff Boost™ to process an 85,000-square-foot takeoff in just 30 minutes. “That is light years ahead of the competition,” he said.
Watch AI-Assisted Takeoff in Action
While traditional methods require a lot of manual work, AI does the hard part for you. Curious? Then watch this short, 20-second video to find out more:
Tools like these allow you to free up time for more strategic tasks.
Find Out Which Trades Benefit the Most
Trades like finishing, painting, and drywall are already experiencing the positive impact of AI on their workflows. However, they can be adapted to other trades, though some post-processing might be needed. In the future, AI tools will continue to improve so they can be used for other applications in preconstruction.
AI Is Here to Help, Not Replace You
It’s natural to worry about AI taking over human jobs. But don’t worry; AI isn’t here to replace your role as an estimator. It’s here to help you excel. Another of our customers, Raal Alkaas, Director of PreConstruction at Central Ceilings, Inc., said, “AI handles a lot of the detailed work where junior estimators might otherwise struggle. That means less time spent checking, shadowing, and second-guessing.”
Remember, your skills, judgment, and industry relationships are still irreplaceable. AI is just another tool in your toolbox.
“AI isn’t here to replace jobs—it’s here to make us better at them,” Raal added.
Experience the Real Impact of AI
Many industry leaders like Raal have seen its impact first-hand: “Everyone should see AI as a tool to help them evolve, not as a threat. At Central, ‘Evolve’ is one of our core values. Embracing change, improving processes, and staying ahead of the curve is part of who we are. If you lean into that mindset, AI can elevate your work and give you a serious edge.”
If your company is ready to embrace AI to enhance your bidding process and make more profit, we can help. Start your free trial of AI-assisted Takeoff Boost with On-Screen Takeoff today. By choosing the right AI solution, you’ll already be ahead as the construction industry evolves.
