What is the best construction measuring tool for your business?
Bolster
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TLDR
Choosing the right construction measuring tools directly impacts the accuracy of your takeoffs, the speed of your quoting process, and the overall profitability of your projects. From basic tape measures to advanced GPS tools, the right combination helps your team work faster and more precisely, especially when paired with your construction estimating software.
Choosing the Right Tools for Accurate Takeoffs
Before you can estimate and quote any project, you first need to complete a proper take-off, and that starts with taking accurate measurements.
Just like any other part of your construction business, the tools you choose influence your accuracy and productivity. Here is a breakdown of the most useful construction measuring tools and when you should use them.
Measuring Tapes
Measuring tapes are the simplest and most essential construction measuring tools, ideal for shorter distances.
To get the most out of them, keep several options on hand. A high quality retractable metal tape measure for up to 20 or 25 feet handles most small tasks. For larger measurements, a 100 foot or longer tape ensures you can cover more ground without sacrificing reliability.
Measuring Wheels
When you need to measure distances over one hundred feet and can walk the entire path, a measuring wheel is an affordable and effective solution.
Measuring wheels come in various sizes and designs, with some folding for easy storage. While not perfectly accurate, they deliver reliable results when used correctly, especially for sites with elevations or uneven paths such as fencing routes.
GPS Measuring Tools
GPS survey and measuring tools offer the highest accuracy. Many handheld devices allow you to walk the site and log exact coordinates for points, ends, and corners.
However, basic GPS units may not capture topographical data. If site gradients impact your project, you may still need additional surveying to get the full picture.
Capture Measurement Data as Quickly as Possible
Regardless of which tools you use, capturing data immediately is essential. Avoid transferring measurements from paper to software whenever possible, as this can introduce errors and slow down your workflow.
Using a laptop or tablet with access to your construction estimating software allows you to store measurements on site and begin your quote as soon as you return to the office.
Accurate measuring is one of the most critical steps in the quoting process. If your tools slow you down or limit your accuracy, it might be time for an upgrade.
Selecting the right construction measuring tools improves precision, efficiency, and quote turnaround times. Whether you rely on tape measures, measuring wheels, or advanced GPS tools, the goal is consistent and accurate results. For even better performance, pair your measurement process with modern estimating software. Bolster offers a streamlined solution that helps you capture, store, and use measurement data more effectively, ensuring faster and more reliable quotes.
