Choosing the right construction estimating software can make a big difference for small contractors in managing costs, time, and overall project efficiency. In 2024, the market is packed with tools tailored for smaller construction businesses. Below are three top picks that stand out for their ease of use, affordability, and powerful features.
Buildxact offers a user-friendly interface and robust estimating features designed for small contractors, particularly in residential construction. The software integrates takeoffs, project management, and even accounting, allowing users to streamline various tasks all in one place. It supports accurate and fast estimates by offering built-in templates and price list imports. The cloud-based platform ensures access from any device, making it ideal for contractors who need flexibility on-site. A 14-day free trial is available for users to test its features.
Pros: Excellent user interface, all-in-one solution, flexible pricing plans.
Pricing: Starts at $149 per month, with more advanced plans available
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PlanSwift is a go-to construction estimating software for contractors looking to streamline their takeoff process and eliminate the need for paper-based calculations. This powerful tool is designed to simplify the workflow for material takeoffs, labor estimations, and overall project cost calculation. Here are some additional details about its features and benefits:
Intuitive Takeoffs: PlanSwift excels in making the takeoff process faster and more efficient. With just a few clicks, users can measure areas, lengths, and volumes directly from digital blueprints, reducing manual input and minimizing errors.
Excel Integration: One of its standout features is real-time integration with Excel, allowing contractors to update their estimates and project data instantly. This integration enables seamless communication between estimation software and accounting or project management spreadsheets(Archdesk)(ClickUp).
Comprehensive Cost Management: PlanSwift offers tools for calculating not just materials and labor but also waste, overhead, and other associated project costs. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of a project are accounted for in the estimate, reducing the risk of cost overruns.
Why Choose It: Great for contractors looking to simplify takeoffs and material calculation
STACK is a cloud-based construction software designed to streamline the estimation process for small contractors, particularly those managing complex projects. Its standout feature is the high level of customization it offers, making it perfect for contractors who need to tailor their estimates and proposals according to various project requirements.
Comprehensive Measurement Tools: STACK provides dedicated tools for measuring different project components, including area, length, arc, pitched, volume, and counts. This makes it highly versatile and capable of handling a wide range of construction tasks, from residential to commercial projects
Customizable Templates and Libraries: With STACK, contractors can access a vast library of pre-built templates and items for materials, assemblies, and other project needs. Users can also create custom templates, which can be reused across different projects, making it easier to standardize proposals and save time.
Centralized Hub for Project Management: STACK goes beyond basic estimating by offering a centralized hub for managing, tracking, and communicating with stakeholders. It makes collaboration easy by centralizing all project information in one location, improving workflow and reducing miscommunication
Cons: Some users have reported that the software can become slow when working with large data sets, which may be a consideration for those handling more complex or larger-scale projects
In 2024, small contractors have access to an impressive array of construction estimating software. Whether you need simplicity, flexibility, or comprehensive management features, there’s a tool tailored for your business.
By selecting the right estimating software, you’ll not only save time but also improve accuracy, boost productivity, and present professional estimates to clients—helping your business thrive in a competitive market.
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