For many concrete contractors, traditional methods for construction quantification may feel safe and comfortable, but the truth is that they are risky. Manual quantifications, and even 2D software-based construction quantifications, leave projects prone to errors and miscalculations.
The risk that accompanies older methods is one of the reasons why many contractors are turning to BIM-based information management solutions, the latest in construction quantification software. Many contractors still using traditional quantification methods may be skeptical of these new tools for construction quantification. Surely these seemingly complex software tools must be difficult to learn and use, making them less efficient than reliable but tedious methods? Absolutely not. These new ways of working produce more accurate quantities, and do so faster and with fewer problems, allowing contractors who make the leap to BIM to become more competitive and win more bids.
As easy as quantifying
With 3D model-based information management solutions, such as Tekla Structures, creating a model for accurate quantities works in a similar way as on-screen 2D digitizing software. Simply import the design team's drawing files and start modeling 3D quantities right on top of those using easy and intuitive tools designed specifically for the task. The 3D model can be built in a matter of minutes by simply clicking on points as you draw and dragging and dropping structures into place. Or you can simply import a design intent model, convert it to Tekla's model and further develop it to better suit the contractors' purposes using the same easy-to-use tools.
Once the 3D model has been built, all quantities are automatically available for management and reporting, meaning no more manual calculations and no more errors. The 3D model makes it almost impossible to overlook quantities, making quantities more accurate and complete than ever before. The risks that come with 2D-based construction takeoff methods are no longer a concern. Important information, such as cost codes, concrete mix, etc., can be added to model objects according to your preferences. In addition, quantities can be automatically organized according to preferences, such as location, structure and pour type, material, etc., making information management easier. On project changes, just adjust the parts in the 3D model, and all information will be automatically updated. And when you select one in your structured list of materials, it is highlighted in the 3D model, so even after several changes, you know exactly how the quantities are calculated and what is included.
Benefits beyond quantities
The easiest, fastest and most reliable construction quantification is amazing on its own. However, the benefits of BIM software go far beyond estimating. When used effectively, a model created is much more than a source for estimating accurate quantities: it is a complete information management solution that can be used during pre-construction and construction for planning, scheduling, and extracting detailed quantities for estimating and pouring, material ordering, reinforcement detailing, and even on site, for better coordination and collaboration without unnecessary rework.
One of the most valuable advantages of the accurate 3D model is the ability to assess constructability. Thanks to visual information and clash detection capabilities, the question "Can we build this as designed?" can be answered early in the process with just a glance. Similarly, pours can be planned and construction quality quantities automatically reported by simply adding pour breaks to the concrete model, and tracked in real time using automated tools and intelligence in the model. In short, modern information management tools enable contractors to do what would be impossible with traditional methods.
Be part of what is happening
The concrete industry is becoming increasingly competitive as more and more contractors begin to adopt the new information management tools available. Those still using traditional methods may be comfortable, but when their competitors can complete bids and projects faster, easier, and with greater accuracy and quality, they will soon discover that they are lagging behind and it is time to catch up.
would you like to learn more about model-based quantifications? Read this guide to improve your budgets in particular.
