At Takeoff Services, we use FastPIPE—an industry-leading mechanical estimating software—to deliver fast, accurate HVAC takeoffs for commercial and industrial contractors. Whether it’s a 50,000 sq. ft. office building or a complex medical gas system in a hospital, FastPIPE helps us turn complex plan sets into clean, data-rich estimates our clients can trust.
What Is FastPIPE?
FastPIPE is a specialized estimating tool built for commercial mechanical contractors. It combines digital onscreen takeoff features with a powerful database of piping components, labor units, and cost libraries. It’s particularly effective for estimating:
- HVAC piping systems (chilled water, hot water, steam)
- Mechanical insulation and valve packages
- Hydronic equipment hook-ups
- Specialty process piping
- Commercial plumbing and combined MEP scopes
How We Use FastPIPE in Our Estimating Workflow
We’ve built a proven HVAC takeoff process around FastPIPE to ensure speed, consistency, and accuracy:
1. Plan Review & Scope Confirmation
We begin by reviewing your drawings, spec sections, and bid form. We confirm your system types (e.g., CHW, HHW, VAV piping), floor counts, and drawing sets to ensure all scope is included.
2. Digital Onscreen Takeoff
Using FastPIPE’s built-in takeoff tools, we measure all pipe runs directly on the plans—broken down by size, material type, system and area. Color-coding and layer control help ensure clear visual audits.
3. Fittings, Valves & Accessories
FastPIPE’s extensive database includes thousands of mechanical components—from copper and black iron fittings to escutcheons, valves, strainers, and hanger supports. We select items based on system specs or local code requirements.
4. Labor Hours & Crew Productivity
We apply labor units based on your preferred labor table, project conditions (e.g., night work, congested areas), or union vs. open shop. FastPIPE includes preloaded labor factors but allows customization for your region or crew type.
5. Equipment & Assembly Integration
Where needed, we include estimated hook-up piping for boilers, chillers, fan coil units, and pumps. These assemblies are built using FastPIPE’s custom group functionality and help standardize system connections.
6. Reports & Deliverables
Once the takeoff is complete, FastPIPE generates Excel reports, summary sheets, and pipe-by-size breakdowns. We also provide PDF markups and scope clarifications for GC submission or internal review.
Why FastPIPE Works for HVAC Estimating
- Trade-specific database with accurate pipe fittings, hangers, valves
- Custom assemblies for repeated detail work (e.g., FCU kits, risers)
- Compatible with union and non-union labor tables
- Fast export formats for Excel and PDF handoffs
- Audit trail features for takeoff transparency and QC
Our Competitive Edge Using FastPIPE
Unlike generic estimating tools, FastPIPE is built by and for mechanical contractors. Because we use it every day, we can turn around professional HVAC estimates in as little as 24–48 hours—with more scope clarity and less room for error.
From hydronic loop takeoffs to detailed scope breakdowns for chilled water plants, FastPIPE gives us the tools to produce high-confidence estimates that help you win more work.
Conclusion
FastPIPE isn’t just a tool—it’s a key part of how we deliver expert-level HVAC estimating services. Whether you’re bidding a design-build job, reviewing sub pricing, or preparing your own GC quote, our FastPIPE-driven takeoffs help you build smarter, faster, and with fewer surprises.
Ready to get started? Upload your plans today and let us prepare a FastPIPE estimate tailored to your HVAC scope.