We are here to break down the steps to Estimate a Lumber Takeoff. There is a lot of competition in the market for lumber experts, and they all try to deliver the best estimation services for lumber projects. So how can you improve lumber estimates? With masterful craftsmanship in the estimation process, high-profit margins can be achieved. Estimation services use advanced tools to perform precise takeoffs. Bidding Estimate is one of the leading cost estimation services providers. They are popular for creating reliable and efficient estimates by using advanced cost-estimating software such as Stack, Quest Estimating, Planswift, etc.   For our readers, this article will involve the following:  

• Introduction to lumber material takeoff 
• What are the Steps to Estimate a Lumber Takeoff
• How modern tools have improved the process of takeoff in lumber projects

 

Framing Takeoff  –  A Brief Introduction 

Lumber material takeoff, also known as framing takeoff, includes counting the required amount of lumber or wood needed to complete a project successfully. A few examples of components included in lumber material takeoff according to specific categories are as follows:  

• Studs
• Plates
• Headers
• Trimmers
• King and Jack studs

  For flooring and roofing, the most significant elements are as follows:  

• Floor joists
• Rik boards
• Roof rafters
• Ceiling joists

  Other important components are:  

• Blocking
• Fascia Boards 
• Any project-specific requirements 

  Quick and accurate Steps to Estimate a Lumber Takeoff are essential for estimators, contractors, and a client. To achieve accuracy, a professional must have to have firm and precise control over all the cost aspects when performing the estimation process.   

Basic Steps to Estimate a Lumber Takeoff Accurately 

Accuracy is the key to the takeoff process. The process of conducting a framing takeoff includes the following steps:  

1) Begin with a Plan

The first step in framing takeoff estimation is conducting a takeoff on the construction drawings and plans. If drawings or plans are absent, make sure to derive a plan based on available information that identifies all the required components. A professional must be able to analyze all the spaces and intersections among the wall’s structure.  

2) Determine the Required Amount of Studs

Studs play a crucial role when it comes to a lumber project. Studs are vertical elements for supporting and forming a wall. To compute the required number of studs, you need to measure the length of a particular wall in feet and multiply it by 0.75. Also, three studs will be included at 90 degrees in each corner. Professional Lumber Takeoff Services factor in 15% wastage based on the measurements. And you should too.  

3) Takeoff for Headers

In a lumber project, headers are considered very important as they support structures for opening like windows and doors. In general, the material for a header is built with two 2×12 pieces of timber. In addition to that, a half-inch piece of wood cut to a similar size was placed in between the pieces of wood as the header. The thickness of a header for a 2×4  wall is computed by adding 3.5 inches to the width or depth of the opening.  

4) Supporting Plates Estimation

After the computation of headers is done, the next step is the supporting plate calculations. These supporting plates connect the frames of the wall. There are 3 types of supporting plates which are as follows:  

• Top
• Bottom
• Cripple

  For load-bearing walls, single bottom or double top plates are necessary. To get precise measurements, multiply the total length of a plate by 3. Also, it is important to note that estimators must take into account the 5% – 10% wastage factor when calculating the required amounts of supporting plates.  

5) Sheathing

When we talk about the Steps to Estimate a Lumber Takeoff, the last step is the estimation of sheathing materials. Two materials are frequently used for sheathing:  

• Plywood
• Oriented strand board

  Selecting the most appropriate material is essential as it provides structural stability and weatherproofing. It is important to specify the right width of sheathing as it ensures long-term durability and increases the longevity of the structure.   In lumber, there are 4 basic parameters for analysing and performing correct takeoff services which are as follows:  

• Dimensions
• Count
• Area
• Volume

  Applying Software in Lumber Takeoff  There are two main softwares which can be used for the Lumber Takeoff process which are:  

PlanSwift

It allows a professional to correctly assess the required amount of materials just by using PDF plans. You can determine the estimated cost from a pre-configured materials list by using this software  

On Screen Takeoff

This software provides you with several advantages when it comes to takeoff services. It possesses an extensive database of materials with their pricing for gaining accurate estimates while saving precious time  

Conclusion

In the end, here are some of the most important Steps to Estimate a Lumber Takeoff. The steps discussed in this article will ensure that your estimation process goes smoothly and is seamless till completion. In addition to that, the article provides you with a brief introduction to framing takeoff and how modern techniques can help you greatly in achieving what you desire.