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.
MeasureSquare
MeasureSquare provides professional floor plan takeoff and estimating software designed to help flooring contractors, retailers, and commercial installers create accurate diagrams and cost estimates quickly.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Takeoff | MeasureSquare |
|---|---|---|
| Website | carlsonsw.com | measuresquare.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Subscription |
| Starting Price | $99/month | $49/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✓ 14 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 | 2001 |
| Headquarters | Maysville, USA | Pasadena, 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.
MeasureSquare
MeasureSquare is a specialized takeoff and estimating solution built specifically for the flooring industry. You can move away from manual paper scaling and move into a digital environment where you upload blueprints, trace rooms, and calculate material requirements with high precision. Whether you are working on a small residential renovation or a massive commercial complex, the platform helps you account for seams, patterns, and waste factors automatically.
You can manage your entire bidding process from a desktop, tablet, or mobile device, ensuring your field measurements sync perfectly with your office estimates. By using integrated product catalogs and automated layout tools, you reduce the risk of human error and significantly cut down the time spent on every bid. It transforms how you visualize flooring projects by generating 3D walkthroughs and professional submittal packages for your clients.
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.
MeasureSquare Features
- Cloud Takeoff. Upload your PDF blueprints and trace room perimeters quickly to generate accurate area and linear measurements.
- Automated Seam Planning. Optimize carpet and vinyl layouts automatically to minimize material waste and ensure seams are placed logically.
- Mobile On-site Measuring. Connect your laser meter to the mobile app to draw floor plans in real-time while walking the job site.
- 3D Visualizer. Show your clients exactly how their space will look with instant 3D renderings of tile patterns and textures.
- Product Catalog Management. Store your specific material costs, labor rates, and waste factors in a central database for consistent bidding.
- Tile Pattern Designer. Create complex custom tile patterns and borders easily while the software tracks every individual piece required.
- Professional Quotes. Generate branded bid proposals and work orders that include detailed diagrams and itemized material lists for installers.
- Photo Documentation. Attach site photos directly to specific rooms in your floor plan to keep your installation teams fully informed.
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
MeasureSquare Pricing
- iPad and iPhone compatibility
- Laser meter integration
- On-site photo attachments
- Cloud project syncing
- Professional PDF reports
- Standard product catalog
- Everything in Mobile, plus:
- Advanced PDF takeoff tools
- Automatic seam optimization
- 3D walkthrough generation
- CRM and ERP integrations
- Priority phone 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
MeasureSquare
Pros
- Significantly reduces time spent on complex commercial takeoffs
- Excellent integration with Leica and Bosch laser meters
- Highly accurate material waste calculations save project costs
- Professional 3D renderings help close more retail sales
- Responsive customer support team assists with technical setup
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced commercial features
- Desktop version requires a Windows operating system
- Higher price point compared to generic sketching tools