Contractors need to perform an HVAC Takeoff before bidding on a project as it allows them to make an accurate estimation. Performing an HVAC Takeoff involves determining what your overhead costs are likely to be. For this, you will need to figure out how much time you will require to complete a project, the number of crew members you will need to employ for the project, the number of hours they will work, and the materials you will need.

HVAC Takeoff Solutions for Contractors

A growing number of plumbing contractors now use HVAC estimating software solutions to simplify the process as well as to get quicker results. Let’s consider some of the benefits of such HVAC Takeoff solutions:

• You can access over 200,000 items in the software database.

• You can access built-in mechanical, plumbing, and piping assemblies in the digital job plans.

• You can do a manual Takeoff or use a digitizer or on-screen digital plans for the purpose.

• You can include information about materials and labor in your bid summary.

• You can estimate the cost of the required labor by referring to current labor rates.

• You can refer to real-time updated manufacturer pricing to get the right prices for the materials you will need.

• You can customize Excel report extensions and integrate the estimating data in it.

• You can improve your workflow with a customizable database and interface.

• You can integrate your price details with the accounting system.

Performing an HVAC Takeoff

The first and obvious step is to go over the project details and determine if you have the technical expertise and trained personnel to handle the exact work requirements. For example, if you primarily work on residential HVAC, you may not have the necessary experience to undertake a large-scale commercial HVAC project.

If you can do the project, check its blueprints in detail and make sure you understand all the specifications. Otherwise, you might make a bid, and then realize that you have overlooked some essential details and missed including them in the proposal. It might create issues with the clients if you tack on additional costs later.

Use the plans to determine the exact materials you will need.

Make a note of any items that might require specialized fixtures or installations and factor in the time and installation costs for them. Consult the suppliers about installation instructions or any additional aspects you’ll need to be aware of to quote the job correctly.

Will you need to rent equipment for the HVAC work? Include their rental costs in the bid.

Check if you have got the right and most current supplier costs and labor estimates and overhead estimates, and if you have included insurance and any other required documents with your project bid.

Benefits of Using HVAC Takeoff Solutions

In a rapidly digitized world, using HVAC Takeoff solutions is now more of a necessity than an option for HVAC contractors. Here are some of the benefits for your business:

• You can customize a digital Takeoff template as per your requirements.

• You can refer to a range of mechanical assemblies as well as plumbing and piping assemblies for the project.

• You can import digital project plans and drawings into Takeoff and refer to them on the go or share them with co-workers and clients.

• You can view your Takeoff data on multiple screens.

• You can get fast and accurate Takeoff results, and that can save a lot of time that you would otherwise have to include in your overhead costs, and which would reduce your profit gains.

• You can check the current prices of materials in the regularly updated pricing database.

• You can customize the proposals and export them, if necessary, to other regularly used document formats.

• You can check the market analytics.

You can try out the HVAC Takeoff software solutions for free on a 30-day trial. The software is accessible on desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Sampling it for free will allow you to check out the different features of the software and see how using these can help streamline your business processes, save your overhead time, and bring in work profits. You can then opt to go for a monthly or annual subscription plan.