Sharp Pencil › FAQ

Questions estimators ask us

Wind uplift

Should a takeoff show each wind zone as its own line?

Yes. Take off the area of Zones 1', 1, 2, and 3 separately, then apply the specified assembly's fastening or adhesive rate to each zone. One averaged rate across the whole roof leaves you short at the perimeter and corners. Separate lines also make it quick to rerun the numbers if an addendum changes the assembly or the wind design.

Working with Sharp Pencil

How does Sharp Pencil handle questions on a takeoff?

If your set leaves something open, such as a roof height, the ASCE 7 edition, or who furnishes the curbs, it goes on the open questions (RFI) list that ships with your takeoff, ready to send to the GC. Delivered within 48 hours*. Every paid takeoff is checked before delivery. Your first takeoff on a live bid is free, one per contractor. After that it's $395 for a new set of drawings or a new address, or you can pick a monthly plan.