Construction costs directly from drawings
Upload drawings and AI calculates construction costs for you. Quantity takeoff, materials and labor costs — all at once.
How it works
1. Upload construction drawings
PDF, DWG, IFC or image — AI processes them all.
2. AI calculates costs
Quantity takeoff, materials and labor costs automatically.
3. Get a cost estimate
An itemized cost estimate ready to use.
What do you need AI help with?
Select one or more.
Company size (employees)
What drives construction costs?
The construction cost calculator factors in every major cost driver. The list below covers the inputs that have the largest impact on the final number.
Site conditions
Soil has the biggest effect on foundation cost. Bedrock is cheapest; clay or unstable soil requires piles or deep footings (adding $20,000–$50,000+). A geotechnical report tells you what you're dealing with.
House size and shape
Cost per square foot drops as the house gets larger because fixed costs spread out. A rectangular plan is 10–15% cheaper than a complex polygon. Two-story houses are cheaper per square foot than single-story.
Finish level
Kitchen ($5,000–$25,000), bathrooms ($8,000–$25,000), and HVAC choice (heat pump vs. forced air) drive the biggest finish-level differences. Premium vs. builder-grade can swing total cost 30–50%.
Location
Major metros are 15–25% more expensive than rural areas. The gap comes from labor rates, land prices, and site conditions. Permit and impact fees also vary widely by jurisdiction.
Energy efficiency
Energy code requirements set insulation thickness, window types, and ventilation level. Stricter codes raise construction cost 3–8% but cut operating cost over the building's life.
Construction season
Winter construction adds 5–15% (heating, weather protection, slower curing). Material prices can also swing seasonally — steel and lumber are typically cheaper early in the year.
Typical construction costs 2026
The prices below are indicative and based on 2026 market rates. The calculator gives a more precise estimate for your specific project.
| Project type | Cost per sq ft | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Budget single-family home | $180–$230 | 1,600 sqft = $290,000–$370,000 |
| Mid-range single-family home | $230–$300 | 1,600 sqft = $370,000–$480,000 |
| High-end single-family home | $300–$400+ | 1,600 sqft = $480,000–$640,000+ |
| Townhouse | $200–$280 | 850 sqft = $170,000–$240,000 |
| Bathroom renovation (mid-range) | $200–$300 | 50 sqft = $10,000–$22,000 |
| Office buildout (mid-range) | $75–$150 | 1,000 sqft = $75,000–$150,000 |
Per-square-foot prices give a ballpark — but an accurate estimate only comes from the drawings.
Frequently asked questions
How does the construction cost calculator work?
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