Measuring Plans and Drawings

[zachlegomaniac]

Does anyone have suggestions for an app or web based service that I can measure engineering or architectural drawings? I currently use Stack for construction for my takeoffs, but it is priced absurdly high (for me) because I only need the measurement tool. It is a plus that I can measure different overlain areas and will save my work for me. Thanks!

 

[Slartibart]

What format? pixel- or vector-based? They include a scale? Which version of macOS are you running?

 

[zachlegomaniac]

What format? pixel- or vector-based? They include a scale? Which version of macOS are you running?

Thanks for the reply. 12.6.2. Scale included on all drawings. They are in PDF format when I measure if that assists in answering pixel or vector.

 

[Slartibart]

Which program are you using to view the PDF? Many include a ruler function, e.g. Adobe’s Acrobat , Foxit PDF Editor, etc.. In Apple’s Preview use:

1. Open the PDF
2. open the Inspector (Command-I)
3. Select the “Crop and Rotate”-tab, whose icon looks like a small ruler. Change the units as required.
4. Now use the “select area”-tool and the corresponding (printed) dimensions will be shown in the Inspector.

 

[zachlegomaniac]

I am using PDF Expert and love it. Unfortunately, it has a wonderful measuring tool for iPadOS/iOS, but not for macOS. I’ll give your suggestion a try and, if it works well enough, add it to our managed devices that need the capability. Thank you.

 

[MarkC426]

Not really the answer, but Engineering and Architectural drawings should be fully dimensioned.
A standard note is usually 'do not scale from this drawing'.....🤪

 

[zachlegomaniac]

I own an ecological restoration company. When an opportunity to bid arrives with plans and drawings I typically measure an amoebic-shaped two dimensional area on the drawing (PDF). Once I know the area and/or linear feet in need of revegetation I can figure how many tree saplings I need to plant at 10’ on center so I can figure the cost (if the bid is lump sum).

Anyways, that’s all I need to do. Incredibly simple. I used to use Stack, but, as mentioned, it’s overpriced for what my needs. It helps if I can make many overlapping measurements for the takeoff, but that’s about it. We’re the doers out in the field so I can read the plans as they’re given to me, but that’s about it. I don’t know much about rendering drawings. Wish I did!