Measuring materials – as many different materials types are used in every residential construction project, a detailed takeoff will calculate the material quantities through different measures, such as unit, area, volume, or length. The measurement and takeoff of each material depend on the way it is normally sold. After establishing the types of materials and the quantities of each, putting some extra units to cover wastage in the takeoff cost lets estimators quantify precisely. By multiplying this unit of measurement with the current and accurate zip-code-based pricing, you will be presented with the actual total project cost of that material. Adding costs of all other materials will let them create a precise and accurate takeoff estimate for your project. Remember, the takeoff is only for materials, so it is only one step in the entire estimation process. The takeoffs won't include the labor, insurance, mobilization costs, or other overhead costs related to the project. The estimator caters to all these costs in the complete estimate – however, these are not included in a takeoff.