Carlson Takeoff
Carlson Takeoff is a comprehensive construction estimation software providing site supervisors and estimators with integrated tools for CAD design, accurate dirt-work volumes, and automated machine control file preparation.
Clear Estimates
Clear Estimates is a residential remodeling software that helps contractors create professional, accurate project bids in minutes using a built-in library of localized material and labor costs.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Takeoff | Clear Estimates |
|---|---|---|
| Website | carlsonsw.com | clearestimates.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Subscription |
| Starting Price | $99/month | $59/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1983 | 2004 |
| Headquarters | Maysville, USA | Ann Arbor, USA |
Overview
Carlson Takeoff
Carlson Takeoff gives you a specialized toolkit designed specifically for construction estimators and site supervisors. You can transition from raw paper plans or digital PDFs to finished 3D models and precise material quantities without jumping between different programs. It combines powerful CAD capabilities with automated routines to calculate cut and fill volumes, identify topsoil stripping areas, and account for subgrade depths across your entire project site.
You can use the software to prepare your project for the field by creating surface models and linework for GPS machine control systems. It helps you catch design errors before the first shovel hits the ground by visualizing the site in 3D. Whether you are working on a small residential pad or a massive highway project, you can generate professional reports that clearly break down costs and quantities for your bids.
Clear Estimates
Clear Estimates is designed to help you stop guessing and start winning more profitable remodeling jobs. You can create professional, line-item estimates in minutes by tapping into a pre-loaded database of over 10,000 parts with localized labor and material pricing. This ensures your bids are always accurate to your specific area, protecting your margins while providing transparency to your clients.
The platform streamlines your entire pre-construction workflow by turning those estimates into branded proposals with one click. You can manage your customer contacts, track project statuses, and integrate with accounting tools to keep your business organized. It is built specifically for residential remodelers, handymen, and specialty contractors who need to move away from messy spreadsheets and deliver impressive, fast quotes to homeowners.
Overview
Carlson Takeoff Features
- PDF to CAD Conversion Convert static PDF plans into intelligent vector data so you can start your takeoff process in minutes rather than hours.
- Digitizing & Tracing Trace paper blueprints or digital images with automated contour following to capture site elevations and boundaries accurately.
- Material Quantities Calculate exact volumes for dirt, stone, asphalt, and concrete while accounting for shrinkage and swell factors automatically.
- Subgrade Modeling Define complex subgrade surfaces for roads and building pads to ensure your excavation totals include every necessary inch.
- Machine Control Export Create and export 3D surface files directly to Topcon, Trimble, and Leica systems to keep your field equipment running accurately.
- Trenching & Pipe Takeoff Calculate excavation volumes for utility lines and manholes based on pipe size, bedding requirements, and trench sloping.
- 3D Site Viewing Inspect your finished model in a 3D environment to spot design flaws or missing data before sending plans to the field.
- Automated Reporting Generate detailed Excel or PDF reports that break down your volumes by area, layer, or material type for precise bidding.
Clear Estimates Features
- Localized Cost Data. Access over 10,000 parts with labor and material prices automatically adjusted to your specific zip code for pinpoint accuracy.
- Professional Proposals. Generate branded, detailed project proposals instantly that you can print or email directly to your clients to close deals faster.
- RemodelMAX Integration. Utilize industry-standard data from RemodelMAX to ensure your pricing stays current with fluctuating market trends and material costs.
- Template Library. Save time by using pre-built templates for common jobs like kitchens and baths, or create your own custom project packages.
- Customer Management. Keep all your lead and client information in one central location so you can track every interaction and project history.
- Change Order Tracking. Manage mid-project adjustments easily by creating formal change orders that keep you and your customers on the same page.
Pricing Comparison
Carlson Takeoff Pricing
- Includes built-in AutoCAD engine
- Full 3D site modeling
- PDF and paper digitizing
- Material quantity reports
- Machine control file export
- Perpetual license ownership
- Runs on AutoCAD or IntelliCAD
- Includes Construction module
- Includes CADnet module
- Includes Trench module
- Includes GeoTech module
- Advanced boring and soil analysis
Clear Estimates Pricing
- Localized labor and material costs
- Unlimited estimates and proposals
- Over 10,000 pre-loaded parts
- Professional branded reports
- Customer relationship management
- Email support access
- Everything in Standard, plus:
- QuickBooks Desktop & Online integration
- Zapier integration access
- Subcontractor bid requests
- Customizable document templates
- Priority phone and chat support
Pros & Cons
Carlson Takeoff
Pros
- Perpetual licensing avoids the cost of monthly subscriptions
- Excellent compatibility with various GPS machine control brands
- Powerful PDF cleanup tools save significant drafting time
- Highly accurate volume calculations for complex subgrades
- Responsive technical support from knowledgeable industry experts
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to CAD
- Interface feels dated compared to modern web apps
- Initial purchase price is a significant upfront investment
Clear Estimates
Pros
- Localized pricing data saves hours of manual research
- Professional proposals significantly improve closing rates with homeowners
- Intuitive interface is easy to learn for non-technical users
- Excellent customer support team provides quick resolutions
- Frequent database updates keep material costs highly accurate
Cons
- Mobile experience is less robust than the desktop version
- Limited advanced project management features for large-scale builds
- Initial setup of custom parts can be time-consuming