Paint & Weight Takeoff

Build a member list from the AISC shape database to estimate coated surface area, paint gallons with overage, and shipping weight in one takeoff pass.

Paint & Weight Takeoff

Total Project Estimator

AISC Database

1. Coating Specs

Coverage (sf/gal)

Overage %

2. Add Member

Shape (Type to Search)

Length (ft)

Qty

Selected Item Stats

Perimeter: -

Weight/Ft: -

Takeoff List

Shape	Dims	Area	Paint (Gal)	Weight

No items added yet.

Total Weight 0 lbs

Total Area 0 sf

Total Paint 0.0 gal *Includes Overage

Coating Area and Member Weight Takeoff

Paint quantity is driven by exposed perimeter × length, not by tonnage alone. A light W12×14 can need more gallons than a short heavy column because surface area scales with shape perimeter. This tool uses AISC surface (perimeter) data and nominal weight per foot so estimators can quote primer/finish and freight from the same member list.

How to use this calculator

Set coating coverage (sf/gal from the product data sheet) and overage percent for spray loss, touch-up, and complex geometry.
Search an AISC designation, enter length in feet and quantity, then Add to List. Preview perimeter and lb/ft before committing the line.
Watch totals for weight, surface area, and gallons (including overage). Clear the list when starting a new bid package.

Shop coating realities

Coverage rates assume a stated dry film thickness — changing mils changes gallons more than changing color. Deduct faying surfaces that will be left bare for slip-critical joints if the spec requires it, and remember galvanizing or intumescent systems use different coverage math. Weight totals are bare steel; add connection material and hardware separately when shipping complete assemblies.

FAQ

Is perimeter the full paint surface?

It is the published shape perimeter used for estimating. Ends, cuts, and connection plates add area; nested contact faces may reduce it — adjust overage or add plate lines as needed.

What overage should I use?

Many shops start around 10%. Complex trusses, lattice, and field touch-up often need 15–25%. Follow the coating manufacturer and your historical waste.

Does this include both sides of a plate?

Rolled shapes use closed perimeter. For loose plate, use the plate weight tool or enter equivalent area manually — do not force a W-shape proxy.

Are weights exact shipping weights?

They are nominal AISC lb/ft × length × qty. Mill tolerance, cope scrap, and welded attachments will shift scale weight slightly.