Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - PlanSwift delivers fast digital takeoff and customizable estimating for remodeling and construction projects.
- 2#2: Stack - Stack provides pre-built assemblies and digital takeoff software optimized for residential remodeling estimates.
- 3#3: Bluebeam Revu - Bluebeam Revu offers PDF markup, measurement, and collaboration tools for accurate remodeling takeoffs and estimating.
- 4#4: Buildertrend - Buildertrend integrates estimating, bidding, and project management for remodeling contractors.
- 5#5: JobTread - JobTread streamlines estimating, scheduling, and invoicing tailored for remodeling businesses.
- 6#6: Procore - Procore's cloud-based estimating tools support takeoff, bidding, and cost management for remodeling projects.
- 7#7: Sage Estimating - Sage Estimating uses a vast item database for precise, scalable cost estimating in remodeling.
- 8#8: Improveit 360 - Improveit 360 combines CRM, sales presentations, and estimating for home remodeling contractors.
- 9#9: Leap - Leap enables instant mobile estimating and contract signing for remodeling and home improvement jobs.
- 10#10: Houzz Pro - Houzz Pro provides project management and basic estimating tools for remodeling professionals.
We prioritized tools based on core functionality (including takeoff precision, cost databases, and collaboration features), user experience (intuitive design and support), and overall value, ensuring they meet the diverse demands of remodeling contractors of all sizes.
Comparison Table
Remodeling contractors rely on software to streamline cost estimation, timeline tracking, and material planning—so choosing the right tool is key. This comparison table explores popular options like PlanSwift, Stack, Bluebeam Revu, Buildertrend, and JobTread, examining features to help readers identify the best fit for their workflow. It breaks down functionality, usability, and unique strengths to simplify the decision-making process.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift PlanSwift delivers fast digital takeoff and customizable estimating for remodeling and construction projects. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Stack Stack provides pre-built assemblies and digital takeoff software optimized for residential remodeling estimates. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | Bluebeam Revu Bluebeam Revu offers PDF markup, measurement, and collaboration tools for accurate remodeling takeoffs and estimating. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 4 | Buildertrend Buildertrend integrates estimating, bidding, and project management for remodeling contractors. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | JobTread JobTread streamlines estimating, scheduling, and invoicing tailored for remodeling businesses. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Procore Procore's cloud-based estimating tools support takeoff, bidding, and cost management for remodeling projects. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 7 | Sage Estimating Sage Estimating uses a vast item database for precise, scalable cost estimating in remodeling. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | Improveit 360 Improveit 360 combines CRM, sales presentations, and estimating for home remodeling contractors. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Leap Leap enables instant mobile estimating and contract signing for remodeling and home improvement jobs. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Houzz Pro Houzz Pro provides project management and basic estimating tools for remodeling professionals. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
PlanSwift delivers fast digital takeoff and customizable estimating for remodeling and construction projects.
Stack provides pre-built assemblies and digital takeoff software optimized for residential remodeling estimates.
Bluebeam Revu offers PDF markup, measurement, and collaboration tools for accurate remodeling takeoffs and estimating.
Buildertrend integrates estimating, bidding, and project management for remodeling contractors.
JobTread streamlines estimating, scheduling, and invoicing tailored for remodeling businesses.
Procore's cloud-based estimating tools support takeoff, bidding, and cost management for remodeling projects.
Sage Estimating uses a vast item database for precise, scalable cost estimating in remodeling.
Improveit 360 combines CRM, sales presentations, and estimating for home remodeling contractors.
Leap enables instant mobile estimating and contract signing for remodeling and home improvement jobs.
Houzz Pro provides project management and basic estimating tools for remodeling professionals.
PlanSwift
specializedPlanSwift delivers fast digital takeoff and customizable estimating for remodeling and construction projects.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that instantly apply complete cost formulas to takeoff items for rapid, error-free estimating.
PlanSwift is a leading digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for remodeling contractors, enabling fast and accurate quantity takeoffs directly from PDF plans, blueprints, or CAD files using intuitive point-and-click tools. It features a robust library of pre-built assemblies and formulas that automate cost calculations, material lists, and labor estimates for remodeling projects like kitchens, bathrooms, and whole-home renovations. The software integrates seamlessly with Excel, QuickBooks, and other accounting tools to produce professional bids and track project costs efficiently.
Pros
- Extremely fast point-and-click takeoffs that save hours compared to manual methods
- Customizable assemblies and formula-driven estimating for precise remodeling bids
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, Excel, and other construction management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to digital takeoff software
- Windows-only compatibility, no native Mac or mobile support
- Higher upfront cost may deter very small remodeling operations
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors handling complex residential projects who need accurate, scalable estimating from digital plans.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at $1,749 per user; perpetual license option at $1,595 plus $495/year maintenance.
Stack
specializedStack provides pre-built assemblies and digital takeoff software optimized for residential remodeling estimates.
AI-powered automated takeoff that instantly measures and counts elements from uploaded plans
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform tailored for remodeling contractors, enabling fast digital measurements from PDFs, blueprints, and site photos. It automates cost estimates with customizable assemblies, real-time collaboration, and seamless integrations with QuickBooks and Procore. The software streamlines the entire process from takeoff to professional proposals, reducing manual errors and bidding time significantly.
Pros
- Lightning-fast AI-assisted takeoffs from any plan format
- Robust template library for remodeling-specific estimates
- Excellent integrations with accounting and project management tools
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for complex assemblies
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume users
- Limited offline functionality
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors handling diverse projects who need precise, collaborative estimating without heavy manual input.
Pricing
Starts at $2,400/year for core takeoff and estimating, with pay-per-square-foot options and enterprise plans from $99/user/month.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedBluebeam Revu offers PDF markup, measurement, and collaboration tools for accurate remodeling takeoffs and estimating.
Customizable measurement toolsets with automatic quantity calculations and visual logging for efficient remodeling takeoffs
Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF-based tool designed for the AEC industry, enabling remodeling contractors to perform precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and markups directly on blueprints and plans. It supports quantity extraction for materials like lengths, areas, counts, and volumes, with customizable toolsets and export options to Excel for further estimating. While not a full-featured estimating suite with built-in cost databases, it excels in pre-estimate preparation and collaboration via its Studio cloud platform.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in digital takeoffs and measurements from PDFs
- Robust collaboration tools via Studio for team reviews and markups
- Seamless integration with Excel and other estimating software
Cons
- Lacks native cost databases, assemblies, or labor rate libraries
- Steep learning curve for advanced customization and scripting
- Subscription model can add up for small remodeling teams
Best For
Remodeling contractors who specialize in plan takeoffs and need a reliable PDF tool to feed data into dedicated estimating software.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $239/user for Basics, $300 for Core, and $349 for Complete editions; perpetual licenses available but less common.
Buildertrend
specializedBuildertrend integrates estimating, bidding, and project management for remodeling contractors.
Real-time estimating synchronization with budgeting and scheduling to automatically update project costs and timelines
Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management platform tailored for remodeling contractors, featuring robust estimating tools for creating detailed bids, performing digital takeoffs, and managing cost databases. It integrates estimating seamlessly with scheduling, budgeting, change orders, and client portals to streamline the entire project lifecycle. Ideal for remodelers handling residential projects, it supports real-time collaboration and financial tracking to minimize overruns.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of estimating with scheduling and financials
- User-friendly mobile app for on-site estimating updates
- Strong client portal for transparent bid approvals and selections
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced estimating features
- Higher cost may not suit solo or very small remodelers
- Less flexible custom takeoff tools than dedicated estimating software
Best For
Medium-sized remodeling contractors managing multiple projects who need estimating integrated with full project management.
Pricing
Quote-based, typically starting at $399/month for unlimited users with add-ons for advanced features.
JobTread
specializedJobTread streamlines estimating, scheduling, and invoicing tailored for remodeling businesses.
Matrix-style estimating assemblies that allow drag-and-drop customization for precise remodeling bids
JobTread is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for remodeling contractors, offering robust tools for estimating, job costing, scheduling, and project management. It enables users to create detailed takeoffs and estimates using pre-built assemblies, track real-time costs against budgets, and handle change orders, invoicing, and client communications seamlessly. The platform integrates with QuickBooks for streamlined accounting and provides a client portal for transparency.
Pros
- Powerful assembly-based estimating for fast, accurate bids
- Real-time job costing with variance tracking
- Seamless QuickBooks integration and client portal
Cons
- Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality
- Steeper learning curve for custom assemblies
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Small to mid-sized remodeling contractors needing integrated estimating and job costing without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $89/user/month (billed annually) for basic plan; Pro at $129/user/month and Enterprise custom pricing.
Procore
enterpriseProcore's cloud-based estimating tools support takeoff, bidding, and cost management for remodeling projects.
Integrated Bidding tool connecting estimators directly to a vast network of subcontractors for competitive bids and real-time pricing data
Procore is a robust cloud-based construction management platform that includes estimating tools designed for contractors, enabling digital takeoffs, bid creation, and cost tracking integrated with full project management. For remodeling contractors, it supports detailed quantity takeoffs, subcontractor bidding, and real-time cost forecasting within a collaborative environment. While powerful for mid-to-large remodels, it emphasizes end-to-end project oversight rather than standalone estimating.
Pros
- Seamless integration of estimating with scheduling, financials, and document management
- Mobile app for on-site takeoffs and real-time collaboration
- Extensive subcontractor bidding network and analytics for accurate forecasting
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for small teams
- High pricing that may not suit solo or small remodeling contractors
- Overkill for simple residential remodels lacking specialized trade-specific templates
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors handling multiple commercial or large residential projects who need integrated estimating within full construction management.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starts at ~$500/month for core plans (billed annually), scales with users/projects; requires demo for exact quote.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseSage Estimating uses a vast item database for precise, scalable cost estimating in remodeling.
Excel-powered interface for intuitive, spreadsheet-like estimating with direct formula editing and visual assemblies
Sage Estimating is a robust construction estimating software designed for creating detailed, accurate bids using a comprehensive database of over 22,000 pre-built assemblies and line items tailored to various trades, including remodeling. It supports digital takeoff tools, customizable formulas, and seamless integration with Sage accounting solutions like Sage 300 for streamlined project management. While powerful for professional estimators, its Excel-based interface allows for flexible data manipulation and reporting.
Pros
- Extensive database of pre-built assemblies and real-time cost data updates
- Deep integration with Sage accounting and ERP systems
- Advanced takeoff capabilities with 2D/3D support and customizable reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its depth and Excel dependency
- High upfront and ongoing costs make it less accessible for small firms
- Overkill for simple remodeling jobs without complex scoping needs
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors handling detailed, multi-trade projects who need precise database-driven estimates integrated with accounting software.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$5,000 per user plus ~20% annual maintenance; subscription tiers from $150+/user/month.
Improveit 360
specializedImproveit 360 combines CRM, sales presentations, and estimating for home remodeling contractors.
Interactive 3D room designer for immersive, client-approved estimates
Improveit 360 is an all-in-one CRM and business management platform tailored for home remodeling contractors, focusing on streamlining sales, estimating, and project workflows. It offers robust estimating tools with customizable templates, 3D room visualizations, and precise cost calculations integrated with financing options. The software supports the full customer journey from lead capture to production scheduling, making it ideal for contractors aiming to close more deals efficiently.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of CRM, estimating, and sales tools
- Advanced 3D visualization for compelling proposals
- Seamless financing partnerships to boost conversions
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Pricing can be high for smaller teams
- Limited customization in advanced reporting
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors seeking an end-to-end sales and estimating platform to improve close rates.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting around $300/month per user, with tiers based on features and team size; free demo available.
Leap
specializedLeap enables instant mobile estimating and contract signing for remodeling and home improvement jobs.
Insta-Leap instant financing approvals directly within sales presentations
Leap is an all-in-one platform tailored for remodeling contractors, focusing on streamlined estimating, interactive sales presentations, and project management. It enables users to perform digital takeoffs, generate accurate bids with real-time material pricing from integrated suppliers, and deliver 3D visualizations during in-home sales. The software also integrates instant financing options and digital contracts to accelerate deal closures, making it ideal for sales-driven remodeling workflows.
Pros
- Powerful interactive sales presentations with 3D visuals and real-time estimating
- Seamless integrations for financing, suppliers, and QuickBooks
- Mobile-first design supports on-site quoting and deal closing
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller teams
- More sales-oriented than advanced backend estimating tools
- Customization options for templates are somewhat limited
Best For
Remodeling contractors focused on high-volume in-home sales who need fast, visually compelling estimates with built-in financing.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month for basic plans, scaling to $299+/user/month for premium features; custom enterprise pricing available.
Houzz Pro
specializedHouzz Pro provides project management and basic estimating tools for remodeling professionals.
Seamless integration with Houzz's marketplace for direct lead-to-estimate conversion
Houzz Pro is an all-in-one business management platform tailored for remodeling contractors and home professionals, offering robust estimating tools alongside project management, invoicing, and CRM features. It enables users to create detailed proposals with cost templates, material takeoffs, and visual 3D renderings to impress clients. The software integrates seamlessly with the Houzz marketplace for lead generation and client communication, streamlining the entire workflow from estimate to completion.
Pros
- Integrated lead generation from Houzz's vast professional network
- Visual estimating tools with 3D floor plans and photo integration
- Comprehensive all-in-one suite covering estimates to invoicing
Cons
- Estimating lacks advanced takeoff precision compared to specialized tools
- Higher pricing may not suit solo contractors focused only on estimating
- Steep learning curve for full feature utilization
Best For
Small to mid-sized remodeling contractors seeking an integrated platform for estimating, project management, and client acquisition.
Pricing
Starts at $85/month (billed annually) for Core plan; Premium at $349/month and Pro+ at $499/month with more users and features.
Conclusion
After examining the top 10 remodeling contractor estimating tools, PlanSwift stands out as the top choice, with its fast digital takeoff and customizable features streamlining projects. Stack follows as a strong alternative for residential remodeling, offering pre-built assemblies, while Bluebeam Revu rounds out the top three, excelling in PDF markup and collaboration. Each tool addresses distinct needs, ensuring contractors can find a solution aligned with their specific workflow. Final CTA: To elevate your remodeling estimates, start with PlanSwift—its intuitive design and robust functionality are key to simplifying and accelerating your process.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison