Quick Overview
- 1#1: Stack - AI-powered concrete takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements for slabs, walls, rebar, and pours from PDF plans.
- 2#2: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating tool optimized for accurate concrete quantity calculations, forms, and labor costs.
- 3#3: Groundplan - Mobile-first estimating app designed for concrete contractors to quickly calculate flatwork, footings, and retaining walls on-site.
- 4#4: Togal.AI - AI-driven automated takeoff software that rapidly extracts concrete quantities and measurements from blueprints.
- 5#5: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and digital takeoff solution widely used for precise concrete area, volume, and linear measurements.
- 6#6: On-Screen Takeoff - Advanced digital takeoff software for detailed concrete estimating with assemblies and cost integration.
- 7#7: Sage Estimating - Comprehensive construction estimating platform with extensive concrete databases for material and labor costs.
- 8#8: ProEst - Cloud-based estimating software featuring customizable concrete assemblies and real-time cost updates.
- 9#9: HeavyBid - Heavy construction bidding tool with robust concrete production rate and resource estimating capabilities.
- 10#10: Destini Estimator - Specialized estimating software for precast and cast-in-place concrete with parametric modeling and cost analysis.
Tools were chosen based on core performance (accuracy in quantity extraction and assembly modeling), user experience (mobile and desktop functionality, ease of use), and practical value (integration with construction workflows, cost-saving features, and adaptability to cast-in-place and precast projects).
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores leading concrete estimating software, including Stack, PlanSwift, Groundplan, Togal.AI, Bluebeam Revu, and more, to guide users in finding tools suited to their project needs. Readers will learn about key features, integration capabilities, and practical performance, simplifying the selection process based on budget, team size, and workflow requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stack AI-powered concrete takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements for slabs, walls, rebar, and pours from PDF plans. | specialized | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating tool optimized for accurate concrete quantity calculations, forms, and labor costs. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | Groundplan Mobile-first estimating app designed for concrete contractors to quickly calculate flatwork, footings, and retaining walls on-site. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Togal.AI AI-driven automated takeoff software that rapidly extracts concrete quantities and measurements from blueprints. | general_ai | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 5 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and digital takeoff solution widely used for precise concrete area, volume, and linear measurements. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | On-Screen Takeoff Advanced digital takeoff software for detailed concrete estimating with assemblies and cost integration. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 7 | Sage Estimating Comprehensive construction estimating platform with extensive concrete databases for material and labor costs. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | ProEst Cloud-based estimating software featuring customizable concrete assemblies and real-time cost updates. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | HeavyBid Heavy construction bidding tool with robust concrete production rate and resource estimating capabilities. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 10 | Destini Estimator Specialized estimating software for precast and cast-in-place concrete with parametric modeling and cost analysis. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
AI-powered concrete takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements for slabs, walls, rebar, and pours from PDF plans.
Digital takeoff and estimating tool optimized for accurate concrete quantity calculations, forms, and labor costs.
Mobile-first estimating app designed for concrete contractors to quickly calculate flatwork, footings, and retaining walls on-site.
AI-driven automated takeoff software that rapidly extracts concrete quantities and measurements from blueprints.
PDF markup and digital takeoff solution widely used for precise concrete area, volume, and linear measurements.
Advanced digital takeoff software for detailed concrete estimating with assemblies and cost integration.
Comprehensive construction estimating platform with extensive concrete databases for material and labor costs.
Cloud-based estimating software featuring customizable concrete assemblies and real-time cost updates.
Heavy construction bidding tool with robust concrete production rate and resource estimating capabilities.
Specialized estimating software for precast and cast-in-place concrete with parametric modeling and cost analysis.
Stack
specializedAI-powered concrete takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements for slabs, walls, rebar, and pours from PDF plans.
Patented concrete intelligence engine that auto-detects and calculates pours, joints, and embeds from 2D plans in seconds
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored specifically for concrete contractors, enabling rapid digital measurements from PDF plans for slabs, walls, beams, footings, and rebar. It automates complex concrete calculations, generates precise bids with material costs, labor, and waste factors, and supports real-time team collaboration. With 3D visualizations and integrations to accounting systems like QuickBooks, it streamlines the entire estimating workflow from takeoff to final proposal.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate automated takeoffs for concrete-specific elements like rebar and formwork
- Cloud-based real-time collaboration and mobile access for field teams
- Seamless integrations with popular accounting and project management tools
Cons
- Initial learning curve for advanced concrete assemblies
- Higher pricing tier compared to general estimating software
- Limited customization for non-concrete trades
Best For
Concrete contractors and subcontractors who prioritize speed, precision, and automation in takeoffs and bidding for complex pours.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $149/user/month for basic takeoff, up to $299+/user/month for full estimating and enterprise features; custom quotes available.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating tool optimized for accurate concrete quantity calculations, forms, and labor costs.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that automate complex concrete quantity and cost calculations from simple plan markups
PlanSwift is a leading digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling rapid quantity extractions from PDF plans and blueprints via intuitive point-and-click tools. For concrete estimating, it supports precise calculations of volumes for slabs and footings, linear measurements for rebar and forms, and area computations for flatwork, all customizable through drag-and-drop assemblies. It integrates seamlessly with Excel and accounting software for comprehensive bid preparation, making it a versatile tool for accurate material and labor cost projections.
Pros
- Ultra-fast point-and-click takeoffs significantly faster than manual methods
- Customizable assemblies tailored for concrete elements like pours, forms, and reinforcement
- Robust integrations with Excel, QuickBooks, and other estimating tools
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced assemblies and databases
- Primarily 2D-focused with limited native 3D/BIM support
- Subscription pricing can be costly for solo estimators
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators needing high-speed 2D takeoffs and customizable concrete quantity calculations for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at $1,749 per license; previous perpetual licenses around $1,595 plus annual maintenance.
Groundplan
specializedMobile-first estimating app designed for concrete contractors to quickly calculate flatwork, footings, and retaining walls on-site.
Intelligent 3D zone-based takeoff that automatically computes multi-layer concrete volumes and reinforcing steel
Groundplan is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for concrete contractors, enabling fast 2D and 3D measurements from PDFs, CAD files, and images. It automates calculations for concrete volumes, rebar quantities, formwork, and costs using pre-built assemblies and custom formulas. The platform supports project management workflows and integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks for streamlined bidding.
Pros
- Highly accurate automated concrete volume and rebar calculations
- Intuitive drag-and-drop takeoff interface with 3D visualization
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks and other accounting software
Cons
- Primarily focused on concrete, less versatile for other trades
- Cloud-only requires reliable internet
- Advanced features locked behind higher pricing tiers
Best For
Mid-sized concrete contractors and estimators needing precise, specialized takeoff tools for complex pours and slabs.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per user for Solo plan; Pro at $199/month, Enterprise custom quoted.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-driven automated takeoff software that rapidly extracts concrete quantities and measurements from blueprints.
Patented AI computer vision that automatically detects and measures concrete elements across entire plan sets in seconds
Togal.AI is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating software that automates the extraction of measurements from construction blueprints and PDFs, significantly speeding up quantity takeoffs for elements like areas, lengths, and counts. For concrete estimating, it excels at rapidly quantifying slabs, footings, walls, and rebar placements with high accuracy, allowing users to export data to Excel or integrate with tools like Procore for further cost analysis. The platform uses machine learning to improve over time, minimizing manual digitizing and errors common in traditional methods.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs reduce hours of manual work to minutes
- High accuracy for concrete quantities like volumes and areas from 2D plans
- Seamless exports and integrations with estimating and project management tools
Cons
- Less specialized for complex 3D concrete modeling compared to dedicated tools
- Pricing may be high for solo estimators or small firms
- Requires quality plan uploads for optimal AI performance
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators handling frequent plan takeoffs who prioritize speed and accuracy in concrete quantity calculations.
Pricing
Starts at $125/user/month for basic plans; scales to enterprise custom pricing with project-based options available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF markup and digital takeoff solution widely used for precise concrete area, volume, and linear measurements.
Dynamic measurement sets with automatic quantity summaries and customizable properties tailored for construction takeoffs
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF review and markup software designed for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, with strong capabilities for digital takeoffs and measurements from plans. For concrete estimating, it provides precise tools for quantifying lengths, areas, volumes, and counts directly on PDFs, including customizable markups and summary legends. It supports exporting takeoff data to Excel for cost integration but lacks native pricing databases or concrete-specific assemblies. Overall, it's excellent for the quantity takeoff phase but requires supplementation for full estimating workflows.
Pros
- Highly accurate measurement tools for concrete volumes, areas, and rebar counts
- Real-time collaboration via Bluebeam Studio for team reviews
- Seamless export of quantities to Excel or CSV for cost estimating integration
Cons
- No built-in cost databases or material pricing for concrete
- Steep learning curve for advanced takeoff customizations
- Subscription pricing can add up for small teams without full estimating needs
Best For
AEC professionals and estimators focused on PDF-based quantity takeoffs for concrete projects who already use external costing tools.
Pricing
Annual subscription per user: Essentials $240, Core $350, Complete $550 (as of 2024; volume discounts available).
On-Screen Takeoff
specializedAdvanced digital takeoff software for detailed concrete estimating with assemblies and cost integration.
Point-and-click digital measurement tools with automatic cut/fill calculations for concrete earthwork and site prep
On-Screen Takeoff (OST) by ConstructConnect is a digital takeoff software that enables construction professionals to extract precise quantities from PDF plans, scanned drawings, and images, ideal for measuring concrete elements like slabs, footings, walls, and rebar. It supports customizable assemblies and conditions for detailed concrete estimating, allowing users to generate reports and export data to bidding tools. While versatile for general construction, it excels in 2D plan-based quantity takeoffs rather than advanced 3D modeling.
Pros
- Fast and accurate 2D digital takeoffs from PDFs without printing
- Customizable assemblies tailored for concrete quantities like volumes and rebar lengths
- Strong integration with Quick Bid for seamless estimating workflows
Cons
- Limited native 3D or BIM capabilities for complex concrete structures
- Steep learning curve for advanced assemblies and conditions
- Pricing can be high for smaller firms without full suite utilization
Best For
Concrete estimators and general contractors focused on 2D plan takeoffs for flatwork, slabs, and basic formed concrete in mid-sized projects.
Pricing
Subscription-based; typically $150-$200 per user/month or annual contracts starting around $1,800/year; volume discounts and custom quotes available.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseComprehensive construction estimating platform with extensive concrete databases for material and labor costs.
Visual Assembler tool for rapidly building and visualizing custom concrete assemblies with drag-and-drop phases, conditions, and alternates
Sage Estimating is a comprehensive construction cost estimating software from Sage that excels in detailed bid preparation across trades, including concrete estimating with customizable assemblies for formwork, rebar, pours, and finishing. It features a massive database of over 25,000 line items, labor rates, and productivity factors tailored for accurate concrete takeoffs and pricing. The tool integrates seamlessly with Sage accounting and project management solutions, enabling end-to-end workflow from estimate to job costing.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built and customizable concrete assemblies and databases for precise material and labor costing
- Strong integration with CAD, PDF takeoffs, and Sage 300 for streamlined workflows
- Advanced reporting and what-if scenario analysis for competitive bidding
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for full utilization
- High pricing makes it less accessible for small concrete contractors
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native estimating tools
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors or concrete subcontractors handling complex, multi-trade projects that require integration with enterprise accounting systems.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $3,500–$6,000 per user annually for cloud/subscription model, plus setup, training, and database maintenance fees.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-based estimating software featuring customizable concrete assemblies and real-time cost updates.
Dynamic assemblies that auto-calculate concrete volumes, labor, and material costs from plan dimensions
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software that supports detailed takeoffs and cost estimating for various trades, including concrete work such as slabs, footings, walls, and pours. It features customizable assemblies, real-time cost databases, and digital takeoff tools to generate accurate bids quickly. The platform integrates with accounting and project management systems, streamlining workflows from estimate to contract.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built assemblies tailored for concrete estimating including volume calculations and rebar detailing
- Cloud accessibility enables real-time team collaboration on bids
- Seamless integrations with popular ERP systems like Sage 300 and Viewpoint
Cons
- Takeoff interface less intuitive for complex 3D concrete models compared to specialized tools
- Subscription pricing escalates quickly for additional users and modules
- Moderate learning curve for customizing advanced formulas
Best For
Mid-sized concrete contractors seeking integrated estimating with strong accounting ties and cloud collaboration.
Pricing
Custom quote-based; starts around $4,000-$6,000 annually for base plans, scales with users and add-ons.
HeavyBid
enterpriseHeavy construction bidding tool with robust concrete production rate and resource estimating capabilities.
Visual Estimating Worksheet allowing drag-and-drop bid assembly for rapid, accurate heavy construction estimates including concrete components
HeavyBid by HCSS is a robust construction estimating and bidding software tailored for heavy civil contractors, enabling detailed cost estimation for projects including concrete work in infrastructure like highways, bridges, and utilities. It supports digital takeoff, itemized bidding, subcontractor management, and integration with job costing tools. For concrete estimating, it handles volumetric calculations, formwork, rebar placement, and mix designs efficiently within large-scale bids.
Pros
- Comprehensive item-based estimating with visual assemblies for complex concrete pours
- Seamless integration with HCSS HeavyJob for bid-to-field continuity
- Extensive historical cost database and DOT bid item compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High pricing not ideal for small contractors
- Overly complex interface for simple concrete flatwork jobs
Best For
Large heavy civil contractors managing concrete estimating in major infrastructure projects such as highways, bridges, and sitework.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $5,000+ annually per user with modules; quotes required.
Destini Estimator
enterpriseSpecialized estimating software for precast and cast-in-place concrete with parametric modeling and cost analysis.
AI-assisted 3D concrete takeoff from BIM models for rapid, accurate quantity extraction
Destini Estimator by Trimble is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for civil and heavy construction, with robust capabilities for concrete takeoff, including volumes, forms, rebar, and pours. It automates measurements from 2D plans, PDFs, and BIM models to generate precise bids and supports real-time collaboration. Integrated with Trimble's ecosystem, it streamlines workflows from preconstruction to field execution.
Pros
- Advanced digital takeoff for concrete elements like slabs, walls, and footings
- Seamless integration with Trimble Connect and field tools
- Cloud collaboration for team-based estimating
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High subscription costs for smaller firms
- Limited flexibility for non-Trimble workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large civil construction firms specializing in concrete-heavy projects that benefit from Trimble's integrated platform.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise subscriptions; typically $4,000-$10,000+ annually per user depending on modules and scale.
Conclusion
When comparing the top concrete estimating tools, Stack leads with AI-driven automation that simplifies measurements for slabs, walls, and pours, setting a new standard for efficiency. PlanSwift follows strong with precise quantity calculations and cost tracking, while Groundplan impresses for its mobile-first design, perfect for on-site work. Each offers unique value, but Stack stands out as the top choice for its innovative, end-to-end approach.
Opt for Stack to experience faster, more accurate estimating—whether you’re calculating rebar or flatwork, it’s designed to streamline your workflow and keep you competitive in the field.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
