In simple words, Material Takeoff refers to calculating the quality of materials that are needed for a particular construction project. There are different types of materials needed for construction such as:

• Cement
• Paint
• Concrete
• Bricks
• Wood 
• Lumber
• Metal
• Tiles

So calculating the number of materials is known as performing a takeoff for the material. A contractor or an estimator is responsible for calculating takeoff. Before beginning any construction work, a property owner reaches out to a contractor or estimator to accurately evaluate material quantity. 

Cost Estimate VS Material Takeoff VS Construction Takeoff 

Cost Estimate involves calculating material, labour, equipment, and permit expenses to predict the cost of a building. One can say that takeoff is a step in cost estimate.

Material takeoff only includes figuring out the quantity of material. It is not priced in any way.

A construction takeoff involves quantifying both material and labour. The amount of workers needed for the project is also included in a construction takeoff.

Role of Material Takeoff in Construction 

1) Accurate Cost Estimates

Accurate material takeoff leads to accurate cost estimates. When you know the quantity of materials that are going to be used in construction, it becomes easier to price it. All you have to do is put a price on it and then total the cost. 

Accurate and precise estimates are the key to a profitable construction project. It keeps the project on track and improves productivity.

2) Prevention of Cost Overruns 

One of the biggest advantages of accurate Construction Material Takeoff is that it decreases the chances of cost overruns. Money is spent where it needs to be. There are no unnecessary or extra expenses. It promotes the effective allocation of resources.

Cost overruns are perhaps one of the most stress-provoking factors among homeowners, property developers, or contractors. With the help of accurate takeoff, one can avoid it.

3) Easy Material Procurement 

Material procurement refers to acquiring construction materials. Buying materials can be a tiresome process that comes with its challenges. You have to visit the marketplace, locate the type of material you want, negotiate with the supplier to get a fair quote, and arrange its delivery. Most of the suppliers offer to deliver the materials at a price but it’s important to count the number of materials before loading them. 

An Estimating Company can make material procurement easy by providing you with an accurate quantity estimate. If you are thinking of hiring a company make sure that they are reliable. SMA Estimating LLC is one the most credible material takeoff construction companies across the US. 

4) Less Wastage of Material

Wastage of material is another problem that precise material takeoff can solve. When you know the accurate number of materials needed, you only need to place an order for that. No extra material needs to be purchased. It will result in unnecessary expense and wastage. Waste of materials is damaging to the environment as well so it should be minimized.

Steps for Material Takeoff

Let’s take a look at how a professional performs material takeoff. 

1) Analyze Building Requirements 

First, the scope of the building is analyzed. The size, scale and purpose of the building are taken into account. The complexity of the construction plan is judged as it directly impacts takeoff. The more larger and complex a construction project is, the more materials will be needed. An estimator also considers the demands and requirements of the client regarding material preferences.

2) Take Measurements

Accurate measurements are taken to assess the quantity of material. Measuring dimension is an important part of performing takeoff. Each and everything is taken into account. A Construction Takeoff Expert always double-checks his measurements to make sure that there are no mistakes.

3) Calculate Total Quantity 

The total quantity of material is computed by applying formulas. For example, if you want to calculate the amount of paint needed for a wall, you will need to calculate its length and width. Similarly, other materials have their own mathematical formulas and calculations.

Final Thoughts 

In the end, it is understandable how important a Material Takeoff is in any construction project. It is known by many names such as construction takeoff or quantity takeoff. To put it simply for our readers, a takeoff provides information that can be categorized into two parts. The first is to comprise a list of all the required materials in a construction project. The second category is that it creates cost estimates for these required material components. This article extensively provides you with what is takeoff services, what factors are considered in a takeoff and what is their role. A proper takeoff will be able to anticipate any variations in the material prices that may impact the total costs. That is why. Experts must be vigilant and use any means necessary to stay one step ahead.