Commercial Estimators

Well, I pretty much do all my take offs on PDF (ADOBE) or DWF (AUTOCAD) files on my computer but sometimes I use my ruler or my wheel pen (scale master) for lenghts and my planimeter for areas.

What I have noticed is that better tools are becoming available everyday but I don't use them If can do the take off directly from the PC. The main reason for this is because I can save my take off in a very organized way on my PC. Very acurate and quick.

 For instance, If I'm measuring an area I can do it on PDF. I can mark my measuring area and I can always go back and see what I measured before, really quick avoiding the need of re-doing the take off to see If did it right the first time..

Granrey,

                What version of Adobe have you used the measuring function for PDF files? I have read about these functions in Adobe for use on PDF plans..but I only had Adobe Reader on my current desktop and notebook. If I work with PDF plan files, I need to buy the right version of Adobe to do this.

I have an older Scalemaster. I use it The only problem I have using it are the accuracy of the lengths on the smaller scale plans...1/8" scale. The other problem is the older adapter to the computer requires a usb/ parallel port adapter.

Mike

I have a full version of Adobe. I have to check which specific version I have. But it is extreamly acurately.

You can measure areas, polylines and distances.

I highly recomend it.

If you do not want to buy ADOBE you can use DWF from Audodesk for free. This solfware will do the same but you need to get your drawings in that format.

In my case I tell our architect to convert his autocad drawings into DWF. 

I am using Autodesk Design Review for AutoCad formatted drawings now. I couldn't get the AutoCAD digital estimating software or Planswift added to the budget..as most budgeted expenditures go these days. So I will probably purchase Take-off Live as suggested from my own "budget."

Other then these tools...I still take-off complex roof systems from plans with few details...the old fashion way. With a straight edge to draw the rafters/ ceiling joists and my Construction Master calculator/or my old full length roof framer handbook.