How AI in Construction Estimating Can Revolutionize Work
Updated: Nov 17, 2024
When it comes to construction, AI is breaking new ground (get it?). Artificial intelligence is helping contractors and estimators streamline the entire process. By doing and speeding up such tasks as analyzing historical data, project plans, and material costs, AI in construction estimating, construction management, and other parts of the field is causing a major shift.
AI tools can quickly generate highly accurate estimates, saving valuable time and reducing human error. From small renovations to large-scale builds, AI is turning the once tedious process of estimating into a more efficient, data-driven task.

But it’s not just about saving time. AI-powered estimations bring a level of precision and predictability that was previously hard to achieve. These systems can forecast potential risks, factor in labor costs, and even suggest alternative materials to keep a project within budget. The end result? Smarter, faster decision-making and more reliable estimates that help construction projects run smoother from start to finish. Let's take a look at a handful of tools that are indicative of how AI in construction estimating is changing the game.
Autodesk Construction Cloud

Autodesk Construction Cloud is a platform that integrates tools for design, planning, and estimating within one ecosystem. It allows construction professionals to connect project data across teams and improve workflows, including cost estimation and resource allocation.
AI within Autodesk Construction Cloud analyzes historical data from past projects to provide more accurate cost estimations. It helps by applying "predictive machine-learning components, like subcontractor and project risks, to protect their profit margins from quality issues and stay on track." The AI also learns from previous estimates, improving the accuracy of future predictions, which minimizes costly errors and delays.
STACK

STACK is an AI-powered estimating tool designed for both pre-construction planning and takeoff processes. It helps contractors generate estimates by analyzing blueprints and calculating material quantities.
STACK uses AI to automate takeoff processes, saving time on manual calculations. The AI can identify materials directly from uploaded drawings, categorize them, and predict costs based on local pricing data and previous projects. Their AI-driven STACK Assist helps reduce manual errors and ensures estimators have the most accurate data when preparing bids.
ProEst

ProEst is a cloud-based estimating software tailored to construction professionals, offering cost estimating, project management, and bid tracking. It centralizes all the key information for estimators in one platform, providing real-time updates and collaboration tools.
ProEst was acquired by Autodesk a few years ago, so an integration with their technology and their AI in construction estimating capabilities means maximizing how well ProEst works in estimation while optimizing for integrated data between systems.
Houzz Pro

Houzz Pro is a business management software for construction and design professionals that includes project estimation features. It is designed to help contractors manage projects from the initial estimate to final execution, streamlining client communication and financials.
Houzz Pro’s Takeoff uses Automate to analyze design plans to provide quick and accurate cost estimations. According to Houzz Pro, "While not all plans qualify for AutoMate (simplified floor plans only at this time), you can turn on the AutoMate toggle at the top of your takeoff to see which pages are eligible."
Consult With Us: Figure Out AI in Construction Estimating
The construction industry is seeing major changes, as are many in this day and age. AI in construction estimating and other construction tasks continues to evolve, but one thing that is true is that the right tools becomes crucial for maintaining a competitive edge and keeping up.
AI doesn’t have to be intimidating. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the plethora of options available, our AI consulting service is here to help. Quantum Impact specializes in understanding your unique needs and guiding you towards the best solutions tailored for your business. Our Free AI Roadmap lays it all out in plain English, showing you exactly how to supercharge your business without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re testing the waters or diving deeper, this roadmap is like a friendly guide pointing you in the right direction. Spoiler alert: the path ahead looks awesome. Download it now (for free!) and see what AI can really do for you.