ONLINE MEASURES FAQ
Straight answers before you send the plans.
EXPRESS, FULL, spreadsheets, markups, turnaround and service areas—explained without construction-estimating jargon.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Everything important,
in one place.
01What is a painting takeoff?+
A painting takeoff measures the paintable surfaces and related items shown on construction drawings. Depending on the requested scope, that can include walls, ceilings, trims, doors, soffits, cladding and other finishes.
02Is a takeoff the same as an estimate?+
A takeoff provides the measured quantities. Online Measures supplies those quantities in an editable workbook; you add your own labour, material, overhead and margin rates to calculate the tender price.
03What drawings should I send?+
Send the available PDF architectural drawings, specifications, finish schedules and any tender notes. Large document sets can be shared with a Dropbox or Google Drive link.
04What will I receive?+
You receive an itemised Excel spreadsheet and matching marked-up PDF plans. The two files are designed to be checked and used together.
05What is an EXPRESS Measure?+
Express gives you total house floor area plus an exterior measure, with an editable spreadsheet and marked-up plans. The standard turnaround is three days. Ask us if a 24-hour slot is available for your job.
06What is a FULL Measure?+
FULL provides a detailed interior and exterior takeoff, including room-by-room walls and ceilings plus trims, doors, reveals, features and exterior substrates as required.
07Do you add my painting rates?+
The standard workbook lets you enter your own private rates. It then calculates line totals, subtotal, GST and the final tender amount.
08Do you service Australia?+
Yes. Online Measures supports dozens of painting companies across Australia as well as dozens throughout New Zealand. The complete service is handled online.
09What happens if information is missing?+
We identify missing drawings, unclear scales or conflicting scope and ask for clarification. We do not quietly invent a measurement assumption.
10How do AI-assisted measures work?+
We use AI to speed up measuring. A qualified quantity surveyor checks the scale, scope and quantities against your drawings before we send the editable Excel file and marked-up plans.
11Can you measure trades other than painting?+
Yes. We offer plastering and interior lining measures, waterproofing takeoffs and selected specialist trade measures. Send the scope and we will confirm what can be provided.
12How is a FULL Measure priced?+
FULL and specialist measures are priced according to the drawing set, project size and required level of detail. The scope and price are confirmed before measuring begins.
STILL UNSURE WHICH MEASURE?
Send the plans.
We’ll guide you.
Tell us the trade and tender deadline. We’ll review the documents and confirm whether EXPRESS, FULL or a specialist measure is the best fit.