Are you still using a highlighter and a scale ruler to measure blueprints? If so, you are likely losing money. In 2026, manual bidding often leads to unpaid hours spent on jobs you might not even get. Therefore, you need the best AI estimating software for contractors to stay competitive.
Fortunately, technology has improved significantly. Modern tools use “Computer Vision” to scan PDF blueprints automatically. As a result, they can count outlets, measure square footage, and build a materials list in seconds.
Below, we review the top tools to help general contractors, plumbers, and HVAC pros bid faster. Consequently, you can reduce math errors and win more work.
Top 4 Best AI Estimating Software for Contractors (2026)
1. Togal.AI: Fastest AI Estimating Software
Do you hate manual takeoffs? Then Togal.AI is the tool you need. It uses smart technology to look at your 2D plans. Instantly, it identifies rooms, walls, and symbols.
- The AI Magic: You simply upload a PDF. Then, the “Togal Button” highlights and measures every room’s size automatically. It can even tell the difference between a “bathroom” and a “living room” just by looking at the drawing.
- Best For: General Contractors and Flooring/Drywall subs who need to bid on many jobs.
- 2026 Feature: Additionally, its new Togal.CHAT feature allows you to “talk” to your plans. You can ask, “How many fire doors are on the second floor?” Immediately, the AI will scan the documents and give you a count.
2. Buildxact: Best Residential Estimating Tool
Buildxact is the gold standard for residential contractors. It is perfect if you don’t need complex enterprise tools. Furthermore, it combines estimating with project management in one simple dashboard.
- The AI Magic: The new Blu AI assistant helps you build quotes using plain English. You can verbally dictate specs. After that, Blu finds the matching items in your price list and adds them to the estimate.
- Best For: Custom home builders and remodelers who want a simple tool. It handles everything from the first quote to the final invoice.
- 2026 Feature: Moreover, it now includes an “Estimate Reviewer.” This uses AI to spot common mistakes, like forgetting waste factors, before you send the bid.
3. STACK: Top AI Tool for Subcontractors
STACK is a powerful cloud-based tool. It is perfect for teams. For example, if you have an estimator in the office and a manager in the field, this keeps everyone connected.
- The AI Magic: STACK Assist is an AI chatbot that lives inside your blueprints. You can ask it to find specific details. For instance, ask “Show me all wall types,” and it will highlight them instantly.
- Best For: Electrical, HVAC, and Concrete subs who need detailed material counts.
- Feature: Finally, its “Auto-Count” tool saves time. You click one symbol, like a light fixture. Automatically, it finds every other matching symbol on the entire plan.
4. ProEst: Commercial AI Estimating Software
Does your company do millions in revenue? If so, you need a robust CRM built into your estimating tool. ProEst (by Autodesk) delivers exactly this.
- The AI Magic: It uses past data to predict “Cost to Complete.” It analyzes your last 50 jobs. Thus, it can tell you if your current bid is too low based on your history.
- Best For: Commercial General Contractors who need tight integration with BIM and Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Key Features in Best AI Estimating Software
In 2026, “AI” is a popular buzzword. However, you want real value. To choose the best AI estimating software for contractors, look for these three features:
- Computer Vision Takeoff: The software should “see” the plan. It should not just let you draw on it. In short, if you have to click every corner manually, it is not AI.
- Dynamic Material Pricing: Material costs change weekly. Therefore, real AI tools link to suppliers like Home Depot or Lowe’s. This gives you live pricing so you don’t lose money on price spikes.
- Cloud Security: You are uploading sensitive client blueprints. Because of this, make sure the tool uses strong encryption. Read our guide on Is AI Safe for Client Data? to understand what security features to look for.
Summary: Choosing the Best AI Estimating Software
The goal of AI isn’t to replace your estimator. Instead, it lets them bid on 10 jobs in the time it used to take to bid on one.
- For Speed: Go with Togal.AI.
- For Residential: Go with Buildxact.
- For Subs: Go with STACK.
Next Step: Once you win the bid, you need to manage the crew. Check out our guide on Best AI Tools for HVAC & Plumbing Dispatching. It shows you how to automate your field operations after the contract is signed.
Alternatively, if you are looking for cheaper tools for admin tasks, read our list of Affordable AI Tools for Small Business.