Using the Segment Takeoff Tool

The Segment Takeoff Tool in zzTakeoff allows you to measure individual segments of a structure or layout. This tool is ideal for capturing precise measurements of multiple connected or separate line sections while maintaining flexibility and accuracy.

Segment takeoffs are commonly used for walls, framing sections, piping runs, glazing sections, insulation segments, or any project element that requires detailed linear measurement broken into smaller parts.

When to Use the Segment Takeoff Tool

Use the Segment Takeoff Tool when you need to:

• Measure multiple connected line segments
• Capture individual lengths within a larger system
• Break complex layouts into manageable sections
• Track detailed linear quantities
• Measure irregular or non-continuous paths
• Maintain precise segment-by-segment calculations

This tool is especially useful when a full continuous linear takeoff would not provide enough detail.

How to Use the Segment Takeoff Tool

Step 1: Select the Segment Takeoff Tool

1. Open your project
2. Navigate to the Takeoff Tools panel
3. Click Segment Takeoff Tool

Your cursor will change to segment drawing mode.

Step 2: Choose or Create a Takeoff Item

1. Select an existing takeoff item
2. or
3. Create a new takeoff item
4. Assign:

• Name
• Color
• Unit of measurement
• Material or category

This helps organize and track segment measurements.

Step 3: Start Measuring Segments

1. Click on the plan to place the first point
2. Click again to create the next point
3. Continue clicking to add additional segment points
4. Each click creates a new measured segment
5. Double-click to finish the measurement

zzTakeoff will automatically calculate:

• Individual segment lengths
• Total segment length
• Quantity totals

Step 4: Review Segment Data

After completing the measurement:

• Segments appear on the plan
• Measurements are stored in the takeoff panel
• Total length updates automatically
• Each segment contributes to the overall quantity

You can continue adding more segments to the same takeoff item as needed.

Editing Segment Takeoffs

To modify a segment:

1. Select the segment on the plan
2. Drag points to adjust length
3. Add additional points if needed
4. Delete points or segments
5. Update the takeoff item settings

All totals will update automatically.

Best Practices

Use Clear Naming

Label segment takeoffs clearly, such as:

• Exterior Wall Segments
• Storefront Sections
• Pipe Runs
• Insulation Sections

This improves organization and reporting.

Zoom for Accuracy

Zoom into the plan when placing points to ensure precise segment placement and accurate measurements.

Keep Segments Organized

Group related segments under the same takeoff item to keep totals clean and easy to review.

Verify Scale First

Always confirm the plan scale before creating segment takeoffs to avoid incorrect measurements.

Common Use Cases

Segment takeoffs are commonly used for:

• Wall sections
• Storefront framing segments
• Piping and conduit runs
• Structural framing
• Insulation segments
• Partition sections
• Glazing systems