Enter layout and takeoff options
Sample takeoffs for quick checks
These examples show typical partition scenarios and how options affect quantities.
| Scenario | Layout input | Runs | Openings | Piece | Waste | Expected output |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single room partition loop | Perimeter: 6 × 4 m (1 room) | Top + bottom | 1 door, 0.9 m (bottom) | 3 m | 10% | Gross length increases with lap + waste |
| Corridor walls | Segments: 12, 12, 8, 8 m | Bottom only | None | 3 m | 7% | Pieces = ceil(gross ÷ piece length) |
| Heavy spec (double bottom) | Total: 40 m | Top + bottom + extra bottom | 3 doors, 2.7 m (bottom) | 3 m | 12% | Higher runs → higher pre-lap length |
How the calculation works
1 Base wall length depends on your input method:
- Perimeter: Base = 2 × (L + W) × Rooms
- Segments: Base = Σ(segment lengths)
- Total: Base = Total wall length
2 Track length before laps:
PreLap = (TopLen × TopRuns) + (BottomLen × BottomRuns)
3 Openings deduction (typical doors):
BottomLen = max(0, Base − OpeningWidth)
4 Lap allowance (overlap per joint):
JointsPerRun = ceil(RunLen ÷ PieceLen) − 1
5 Waste:
Gross = (PreLap + LapTotal) × (1 + Waste%/100)
Steps for reliable takeoffs
- Choose Units to match your drawings or site measurements.
- Select an Input method and enter your layout dimensions.
- Set Track runs and any reinforcement (double top/bottom).
- Enter Openings and decide how they deduct from runs.
- Adjust Piece length, lap, and waste for your spec.
- Optional: add rates for quick cost projection.
- Press Calculate. Export results to CSV or PDF.
Partition track takeoff scope
This calculator is designed for estimating top and bottom track used in metal stud partitions and similar interior framing. It supports three input paths: room perimeter, summed wall segments, or an already-measured total wall length. Outputs include gross length, piece count, and optional cost totals for documentation. Use it to standardize takeoffs, reduce missed runs, and document assumptions for review.
How openings change quantities
Doors typically interrupt the bottom track only, so the default deduction applies openings to the bottom run. For example, three 0.9 m doors remove 2.7 m from the bottom track run, while the top track remains continuous. If your spec requires track at the head or special blocking, switch to custom deductions.
Lap allowance and piece planning
Track often ships in standard lengths (commonly 3 m or 10 ft). Each joint can add overlap depending on installation practice. The tool estimates joints using ceil(run length ÷ piece length) − 1, then applies a lap value per joint. Setting lap to 0 gives a conservative butt-join estimate.
Waste factors and field variability
Waste covers offcuts, layout changes, damaged pieces, and sequencing loss. In typical interior work, 5%–15% is common, with higher values for short runs, many returns, or tight schedules. The calculator caps waste at 35% to prevent accidental extremes. If you track historical performance, use your average waste as the default On long, straight corridors, 5% may be enough; in tight rooms with many returns, 15%–20% can be realistic..
Example data for a quick benchmark
Use this dataset to sanity-check your inputs and outputs before exporting.
| Input method | Base layout | Runs | Openings | Piece | Lap | Waste |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Segments | 12, 12, 8, 8 (m) | Top + bottom + extra bottom | 2.7 (m) bottom | 3 (m) | 0.15 (m) | 12% |
| Perimeter | 6 × 4, rooms = 2 (m) | Top + bottom | 1.8 (m) bottom | 3 (m) | 0.10 (m) | 10% |
What does “track length” mean here?
It is the linear length of metal track for top and/or bottom runs along partition walls, including optional laps and a waste factor for practical ordering.
Which input method should I use?
Use perimeter for rectangular rooms, segments for irregular layouts, and total length when quantities come from drawings or laser measures. All methods produce the same base wall length in the selected units.
Should doors deduct from the top track?
Usually no. Doors interrupt bottom track only, while the top track continues. If your detailing differs, choose “Top and bottom” or “Custom top/bottom” under openings.
How is lap allowance calculated?
The tool estimates joints per run as ceiling(run length ÷ piece length) minus one, then multiplies by your lap per joint. This adds practical overlap without needing every piece cut plan.
What piece length should I enter?
Enter your supplier’s standard stock length, such as 3 m or 10 ft. If you commonly receive mixed lengths, use the dominant length to keep joints and piece counts realistic.
How do I use rates for cost estimates?
Material and labor rates are applied per displayed unit of gross length. Fastener cost is applied per piece. Set any rate to zero if you only need quantities.
Can I export results for a submittal or takeoff log?
Yes. After you calculate, use the CSV export for spreadsheets and the PDF export for quick sharing or printing. Exports reflect the latest computed result stored in the session.