Takeoff for Concrete Projects

So, you've just started out as a construction estimator—or maybe you're thinking about it—and someone mentions, "Hey, go ahead and do the concrete takeoff."

And you think… "Takeoff? Are we flying somewhere?"

Don't worry! We've all been there. In this post, I'll walk you through what a concrete takeoff really is, how to do one step-by-step, and share a few practical tips that will make the process smoother. If you're new to the game, this guide is just for you.

What is a Concrete Takeoff?

Let's keep it simple.

A takeoff is just figuring out how much material you need for a construction job. In the case of concrete, that means calculating:

How much concrete you'll pour

How much rebar you'll use

How much formwork you'll need

It's like writing a shopping list before heading to the store—but for a concrete project.

The better your takeoff, the more accurate your cost estimate. That means no surprises later on. (And yes, fewer headaches!)

Step-by-Step: How to Do a Concrete Takeoff Step 1: Study the Plans

Before you even pick up a calculator, look at the project drawings. Find all the concrete work—slabs, footings, walls, sidewalks, you name it.

Look for:

Measurements (length, width, thickness)

Rebar size and spacing

Notes about finishes or mix types

Pro Tip: Don't ignore the notes and legends on the plans. That's where hidden info often lives!

Step 2: Break the Project Into Parts

Divide the concrete work into sections. For example:

Slab on grade

Foundation footings

Concrete walls

Driveways or sidewalks

This makes things much easier to manage. You won't miss anything if you go section by section.

Step 3: Measure and Calculate Volumes

Now, let's do the math.

To calculate concrete volume, use this formula:

Length × Width × Thickness (in feet) ÷ 27 = Cubic Yards

Concrete is ordered in cubic yards, so you need to convert feet to yards.

Example:
Slab = 20 ft long × 10 ft wide × 0.5 ft thick (6 inches)
= 100 cubic feet
100 ÷ 27 = 3.7 cubic yards

Round up a little to cover spillage or waste—usually add 5% to 10% extra.

Step 4: Count the Rebar

Concrete usually needs steel reinforcement (called rebar) to make it strong.

Look at the plans to find:

The rebar size (like #4, #5, etc.)

The spacing (like every 12 inches)

Whether bars run in one direction or both

Quick Example:
If a 10 ft × 10 ft slab uses #4 bars spaced 12" apart:

You'll need 11 bars in each direction (1 bar every foot)

That's 22 bars total, each 10 ft long = 220 feet of rebar

Write this down and label clearly. You'll thank yourself later.

Step 5: Add Formwork

Formwork is what holds the concrete in place until it hardens—usually made of wood or panels.

To figure out how much you need:

Measure the perimeter of the concrete area

Multiply by the height of the pour

Example:
For a 20 ft × 10 ft slab that's 6" thick:

Perimeter = 2(20 + 10) = 60 ft

Height = 0.5 ft
= 30 square feet of formwork

Don't forget to include stakes, ties, and bracing if needed.

Step 6: Include the Extras

Depending on the project, you might also need:

Vapor barriers (under slabs)

Wire mesh

Anchor bolts

Curing compound

Joints (control or expansion)

Check the project specs or ask your team. Add these to your takeoff list.

Tips for Beginner Estimators

Here are a few golden rules that'll help you stand out as a new estimator:

Take Your Time

Rushing leads to mistakes. Go slow, and double-check your numbers.

Use Simple Tools

Don't worry about fancy software at first. Start with:

A calculator

A scale ruler

Graph paper or Excel

Once you're comfortable, try digital takeoff tools like PlanSwift or Bluebeam.

Ask Questions

If something on the plans doesn't make sense, speak up! Ask your team or the architect. Never guess.

Stay Organized

Use a checklist. Make notes. Keep your sketches and calculations neat. Organized estimators are trusted estimators.

Keep Learning

Every project teaches you something new. Review old takeoffs. Learn from feedback. You'll improve quickly.

Wrapping It Up: You're Closer Than You Think

Doing a takeoff for concrete might sound complicated, but once you break it down, it's really just:

1.Read the plans

2.Measure accurately

3.Do the math

4.Keep it organized

You don't have to be perfect right away. Every pro estimator started where you are—figuring things out one slab at a time.

So grab a set of drawings, open a notebook, and try your first takeoff today. The only way to get good is to get started.

Ready to Practice?

Want a free concrete takeoff worksheet or a beginner's checklist? Leave a comment or head over to our tools page. We've got just what you need to practice and grow.