A steel takeoff is the process of quantifying the amount of structural steel required for a construction project, typically based on architectural and engineering drawings and specifications. It involves measuring and calculating dimensions, quantities, and specifications of various steel components such as beams, columns, braces, and connections.

Performing a structural steel takeoff involves several steps:

1. Review Construction Documents: Carefully examine architectural and structural drawings, as well as project specifications, to understand the scope of work and steel requirements.
2. Identify Structural Elements: Identify the structural steel elements depicted in the drawings, such as beams, columns, braces, trusses, and connections.
3. Measure Dimensions: Measure and record the dimensions of each structural steel component, including length, width, height, and thickness, as specified in the drawings.
4. Calculate Quantities: Calculate the quantities of steel required for each structural element based on the dimensions obtained. This may involve calculating linear footage, areas, or volumes of steel members.
5. Consider Connections and Joints: Account for steel connections, joints, bolts, welds, and other fastening methods required for assembly. Include quantities for bolts, plates, angles, and other connection materials.
6. Factor in Wastage and Miscellaneous Requirements: Allow for wastage, cutting, welding, painting, and other miscellaneous requirements associated with steel fabrication and installation.
7. Use Estimating Software or Tools: Utilize specialized construction estimating software or tools to streamline the takeoff process and ensure accuracy. These tools may offer features such as digital measurement, automated calculations, and customizable templates.
8. Verify and Double-Check: Verify the quantities calculated by cross-referencing with the drawings, specifications, and any relevant standards or codes. Double-check calculations to minimize errors and ensure accuracy.
9. Document and Present Findings: Document the steel quantities calculated for each structural element in a clear and organized format. Present the findings to project stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and clients, as part of the overall project estimation and planning process.

Following these steps ensures that construction professionals accurately determine the quantity of structural steel needed for a project, facilitating efficient procurement, scheduling, and construction operations.

Houzz Pro’s structural steel takeoff software works in minutes by allowing contractors to either manually upload measurements or import plans. From there, you’re able to mark plans up on screen, measuring lengths, width heights, and calculating volumes or areas. Because Houzz Pro’s structural steel takeoff software also comes with a built-in estimator, you can quickly turn your takeoffs into professional estimates so you can get your bid in first.

Yes, Houzz Pro’s steel takeoff software is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers.

With an Ultimate subscription of Houzz Pro’s structural steel quantity takeoff software, you’ll have access to solutions that help you find better clients:

• A premium profile on Houzz
• A custom-built business website
• Targeted local advertising
• Quality lead generation

You’ll also get the following tools that help you win the projects you want:

• Professionally branded estimates
• A CRM that helps you stay organized
• Simple email marketing tools
• Lightning fast takeoffs

We even help you manage projects with: 

• Real-time approval tracking and e-signatures
• Project profitability analytics

When it’s time to get paid, you’ll enjoy the convenience of:

• Online payment & invoicing tools
• Time and expense tracking
• Financial reports
• Integrations with Gmail, Zoom, QuickBooks Online and more