Struvia Blog
Expert insights on construction estimating, AI technology, and bid management
Concrete Takeoff From Plans: A Sheet-by-Sheet Guide
Concrete takeoff from plans, step by step: where quantities hide in structural sheets, specs and details, plus the checks that catch misses before bid day.
Construction Subcontracts: What GCs Must Lock In Pre-Award
Construction subcontracts start at the bid, not the signature. Learn how GCs align scope, flow-down terms, and COIs before award to avoid costly gaps.
Best Cloud Based Construction Estimating Software (2026)
Compare cloud based construction estimating software for GCs: STACK, Procore, PlanSwift, Togal, Buildxact and Struvia, with pricing and best-fit picks.
Industrial Estimating Services: Outsource, Hire, or Use AI?
Industrial estimating services promise 24-hour turnaround. Here's how to compare outsourced, in-house and AI-assisted options before you commit.
Ductwork Estimating: How GCs Price and Check HVAC Bids
Ductwork estimating for GCs: how takeoffs work, what drives duct cost, and how to level mechanical sub bids so scope gaps don't hit your budget.
Struvia is live: upload plans, get a priced estimate back
After 3 months cold calling contractors, we built Struvia. Upload plans, get a priced estimate back, plus bid outreach. Struvia is live today.
GFA in Construction: How to Calculate Gross Floor Area
GFA is gross floor area, but codes, owners and estimators measure it differently. Learn how to calculate GFA, what to include, and how it affects your bid.
Construction Quote Forms: What GCs Should Send and Collect
Construction quote forms for GCs: the fields that make sub quotes comparable, what to put in your owner quote, and how to stop scope gaps before bid day.
Siding Estimating Software: Best Options and Pricing 2026
Compare the best siding estimating software for GCs: STACK, PlanSwift, Procore, Buildertrend and Struvia, with pricing, limits and who each tool fits.
Demolition Estimate: How to Build One From Plans (2026)
Build a demolition estimate from plans: scope, quantities, hazmat, disposal, and sub bids. A step-by-step method GCs can use before the bid is due.
HVAC Takeoffs for GCs: Step-by-Step from the Plan Set
Learn how to run HVAC takeoffs from a plan set: read mechanical sheets, count equipment, measure duct, and catch scope gaps before sub bids come in.
How to Start a General Contracting Business: A Bid-First Guide
Learn how to start a general contracting business: licensing, insurance, bonding, subs, and the estimating systems that keep your first bids profitable.