What is in the material takeoff template
One Excel file (.xlsx) with a Takeoff tab, an Example tab and a Units guide tab. Opens in Excel, Google Sheets and Numbers. No sign-up and no email address. The files are yours to edit and reuse.
Material takeoff template columns
| Column | Entered or calculated |
|---|---|
| Trade or CSI division | Entered |
| Material (size, thickness, grade, product) | Entered |
| Plan sheet and location | Entered |
| Length (ft) | Entered |
| Width or height (ft) | Entered |
| Depth (in) | Entered, slabs and footings |
| Count or coats | Entered |
| Unit (SF, LF, EA, CY) | Entered |
| Measured quantity | Calculated from unit |
| Waste % | Entered |
| Quantity with waste | Calculated |
| Package size | Entered, such as 32 SF per sheet |
| Packages to order | Calculated, rounded up |
| Notes | Entered |
How the measured quantity is calculated
- SF = length x width x count.
- LF = length x count.
- EA = count.
- CY = length x width x (depth / 12) / 27 x count.
Quantity with waste = measured x (1 + waste %). Packages to order = ROUNDUP(quantity with waste / package size, 0). Keep measured quantity and waste in separate columns so whoever prices the job can see both.
Filled-in material takeoff example
The example tab shows a fictional small addition. Waste factors and package sizes are yours to set; take paint coverage from the product data sheet, not a rule of thumb.
Short on time? Bidmere can do this for you. Trade estimates from $195, ready in 48 hours. See construction takeoff services or get a fixed quote.
How to fill in each field
- Material: specific enough to buy: size, thickness, grade or product.
- Plan sheet and location: such as A-201, north wall, so revisions are easy to update.
- Dimensions: feet, with depth in inches. Leave unused columns blank.
- Count: repeats, coats, or the item count for EA lines.
- Waste %: for cutting, breakage and overlap. Your experience and the material decide it.
- Package size: how the material is sold. Check the order quantity against supplier minimums.
How to use the template, step by step
- Read the plans and specifications and list every material by trade.
- Measure each item and enter dimensions and count.
- Choose the unit; the measured quantity calculates.
- Add waste and package size.
- Use order quantities for purchasing, and measured quantities for pricing in the estimate template.
Using it as an electrical, plumbing or framing takeoff sheet
Use EA for devices, fixtures and fittings and LF for conduit, wire and pipe, one row per size. Many trade contractors keep one tab per trade or per floor. For framing, count studs from the plan or calculate from wall length and spacing. For larger plan sets, electrical and lumber takeoffs are services Bidmere prepares.
What is a material takeoff?
A material takeoff, or MTO, lists the materials needed to build what the plans show, with quantities. It is the first step of an estimate. See what a takeoff is for units, method and how it differs from a quantity takeoff.
Rather have the takeoff done for you?
Send your plans. Bidmere measures every quantity by trade, area and sheet, ready to price or order. Takeoffs are priced from $149, and priced single-trade estimates from $195 in 48 hours. You get a fixed quote within 2 business hours.
Worked example
| Material | Sheet | Measured | Waste | Order |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete slab, 4 in (24 ft x 24 ft) | S-101 | 7.11 CY | 5% | 7.5 CY (0.5 CY increments) |
| Wall studs, 2x4 at 16 in on center | A-201 | 76 EA | 10% | 84 studs |
| Wall sheathing, 7/16 in OSB (96 ft x 8 ft) | A-201 | 768 SF | 10% | 27 sheets (32 SF each) |
| Drip edge | A-301 | 100 LF | 5% | 11 pieces (10 ft each) |
| Interior wall paint, two coats (96 ft x 8 ft) | A-201 | 1,536 SF | 0% | 5 gallons (350 SF per gallon) |
Fictional example: small addition material takeoff
Frequently asked questions
Is the material takeoff template free?
Yes. Download the Excel file with no sign-up and no email address, and use it on as many jobs as you like. It includes a filled example and a units guide so you can see the formulas working before you enter your own plan set.
Does the material takeoff template work in Google Sheets?
Yes. The formulas use standard functions, IF, ROUNDUP and basic math, which work the same in Google Sheets and Numbers. Upload the file to Google Drive and open it with Google Sheets. Data validation for the unit column carries over too.
How much waste should I add to a material takeoff?
It depends on the material, the layout and your crew. Sheet goods with many cuts need more than straight runs. Keep measured quantity and waste in separate columns, as this template does, so the estimator and the buyer can both see and adjust them.
What is the difference between a material takeoff and a quantity takeoff?
A quantity takeoff measures work in measurement units, such as 768 SF of sheathing. A material takeoff converts that into what to buy, with waste and package sizes, such as 27 sheets. This template does both: measured quantity, then order quantity.
Can I add my own units?
Yes. Add a unit to the data validation list and a matching branch to the measured quantity formula. Common additions are SQ for roofing squares and LS for lump sum items. Keep the units guide tab updated so anyone using the sheet knows the rule.
How do I count studs in a material takeoff?
Count them from the framing plan where shown. Otherwise, divide wall length in inches by the spacing, add one, then add studs at corners, intersections and each side of openings. Enter the result as an EA line with the wall’s sheet reference. Keep waste separate in the waste column.
Can I use the template for concrete?
Yes. Use the CY unit and enter length and width in feet and depth in inches; the sheet divides by 27 to get cubic yards. Add footings and slabs as separate rows. Set a waste factor for over-excavation and spillage, and a package size that matches how your supplier sells concrete.
Can you do the takeoff for me?
Yes. Bidmere measures quantities from your plans by trade, area and sheet, with the measurement rules written out. Takeoffs are priced from $149. You get a fixed price and delivery date within 2 business hours and pay only after you accept.
Link to this template
Teaching estimating, running a trade association or keeping a resources page for contractors? You are welcome to link to this free template. Copy the link below into your page’s HTML.