How-to guides
Hit a specific problem? These are the practical, no-waffle walkthroughs for measuring quantities off a PDF — the stuff estimators actually search for.
- How to measure drywall from a PDF
Measure drywall/plasterboard quantities straight from a PDF: set the scale, run wall lengths, take partition areas, add waste and export. Free step-by-step guide.
- How to set scale on a scanned plan
Scanned plans have no true paper size, so ratio presets don't work. Learn how to set an accurate scale by drawing over a known dimension — step by step.
- How to do a takeoff from a PDF
New to digital takeoff? Learn how to measure quantities from a PDF plan — set scale, measure lengths/areas/counts, group into conditions and export. Free walkthrough.
- How to count items on a floor plan (sockets, lights, doors)
Count sockets, light fittings, doors or any symbol on a PDF floor plan without miscounting. Use numbered count markers grouped by type, then export the totals.
- How to measure area on a PDF plan
Measure floor or wall area from a PDF plan accurately: set the scale, trace the outline, deduct openings and export the m². Free step-by-step guide.
- How to export a takeoff to Excel
Get your measured quantities out of a takeoff tool and into Excel: export a CSV of lengths, areas and counts per condition and paste it into your estimate.
- How to measure roof area from a plan
Measure roof area from a plan for tiles, felt or coverings: set scale, trace each roof plane, allow for pitch, add waste and export. Step-by-step guide.
- How to measure a concrete slab from drawings
Work out concrete slab volume from a PDF: measure the slab area, multiply by thickness, add edges/thickenings and waste. Step-by-step takeoff guide.
- How to count doors and windows on a plan
Count doors and windows accurately from a PDF plan using numbered markers by type and reference. Cross-check against the schedule, then export the totals.
- How to read the scale on a construction drawing
Understand drawing scales like 1:50 and 1:100, use a scale bar, and measure accurately from a PDF — including when the scale is missing or the plan is scanned.
- How to measure fencing from a site plan
Measure fencing runs from a site plan: linear metres of fence line, post counts from spacing, and gates. Set scale, trace the run and export. Free step-by-step.
- How to measure cable runs on an electrical plan
Measure cable and containment runs from an electrical plan: trace horizontal runs, add drops and risers, allow slack, and keep circuits separate. Free guide.
- How to measure skirting and architrave from a floor plan
Measure skirting from a floor plan using room perimeters, less door openings, plus architrave per door. Set scale, reuse the area perimeter and export. Free guide.