Using Material Take-offs

NOTE-- MacNail construction software is retired-- in 2000, we replaced it with Goldenseal construction management software. Goldenseal is a complete business management package that handles simple construction project scheduling, accounting, construction estimating, and project management. There are two Bill of Materials reports in the Goldenseal software, which work the same as MacNail material takeoff files.

Using Takeoffs for Construction Materials

Most of the material items in the takeoff list are shown in purchase quantities (boxes, sheets, etc). A waste factor is already included in the calculations by the MacNail construction scheduling software.

Framing and trim lumber are listed as lineal feet of lumber-- since the MacNail construction scheduling software doesn't have enough information about the project to know what lengths to use.

You can convert these lineal foot measurements into a piece count as follows:

1. Click in the length column next to the desired item.
2. Type in the desired length (in feet).
3. Type the Enter or Return key, or click the mouse in the check mark box in the formula bar. The number of pieces needed will be shown in the pieces column.

NOTE: If the numbers don't change, choose Calculation from the Options menu, and click on Automatic.

You'll still need to use a little judgement before ordering from the takeoff list, but you should find it to be "on the nose" for most of the items you'll need on the jobsite.