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How do I use the Area Tool? (Area Takeoff)

Step-by-step guide on how to do an area takeoff in TakeCost using the Area Tool, including tracing areas, setting scale, editing measurements, and calculating square footage or square metres from drawings.

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Written by TakeCost
Updated over a month ago

Step

Action

Visual Cue

1

Pick the Area tool.
In the bottom‑center toolbar, click Area (polygon icon). Your cursor turns into a cross‑hair.

2

Confirm the drawing scale.
If the scale isn’t set, choose it from the Scale dropdown at the top‑center of the Edit Page before you start tracing.

3

Trace the shape.
Click each corner of the surface. A light fill previews the area as you go. • Double‑click (or press Esc) to close the polygon.

4

Review the measurement.
The completed area turns green and its square footage or square metres appears in the Materials Panel on the right.

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5

(Optional) Quick rectangles with Box Mode.
Toggle Box Mode before your first click, then click two opposite corners—the rectangle auto‑completes.

6

Edit if needed.
Select the polygon to reveal blue handles—drag to tweak corners, Ctrl + Z to undo the last point, or press Delete to remove the entire area.

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Pro Tips

  • Zoom in (scroll wheel or +) for tight corners.

  • Assign materials, mark‑ups, and descriptions later—no need to edit costs now.

Need assistance? Hit the chat widget (bottom‑right) or email [email protected].

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