AGTEK Alternative for Civil Takeoff
An AGTEK alternative for a 2D quantity task can sit alongside Gradework in the same estimate. CivilTakeoff measures pavement areas, curb and utility lengths, and structure counts from PDF plans in the browser. AGTEK Gradework handles surface modeling, and Underground measures utilities and models trenches. Assign each scope to the tool that produces the quantity you need.
AGTEK and CivilTakeoff: workflow comparison
| Attribute | AGTEK | CivilTakeoff |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Gradework modeling software connects office data with cloud functionality and mobile apps. | Browser measurement on Mac and Windows for the PDF scopes in your estimate. |
| Deployment and licensing | Integrated Gradework, Materials, and Underground products; licensing through an AGTEK representative. | Create a separate quantity workspace with Free or Pro estimator access and free viewers. |
| Earthwork / cut and fill | Gradework calculates cut and fill and creates machine-control models. | Complementary scope: 2D plan quantities to combine with separately reviewed Gradework surface totals. |
| PDF handling | Gradework takes off from PDF, CAD, or manual entry; Underground imports pipe profiles from CAD or PDF. | Measure PDF areas and utility runs directly, with manual tools and shaded vector-area selection. |
| Pay-item organization | Gradework analyzes quantities by phase and structure; Underground uses utility classes and depth brackets. | Separate pavement sections and pipe sizes into named groups with your estimate’s item codes and units. |
| Export | Machine-control models, Google Earth files, mobile data, and customized exports to estimating programs. | Download XLSX pay-item totals to reconcile with AGTEK quantities in the estimate. |
| Pricing model | AGTEK routes Gradework pricing and licensing through a local sales representative. | A separate Pro quantity workspace costs $39/month or $390/year per estimator seat. Pro includes 1 TB of plan storage per workspace. |
| Setup to evaluate | Include surface preparation, utility classes, and required model outputs. | Measure a PDF scope assigned to CivilTakeoff, then reconcile its item totals with the combined estimate. |
What to compare
Surface volumes and 2D quantities
AGTEK Gradework calculates surface volumes and produces machine-control models. CivilTakeoff measures plan areas, lengths, and counts. For a pavement section, apply an entered depth to a measured area for material volume, and keep that item separate from the Gradework surface quantities.
Utility measurements and trench models
AGTEK Underground measures pipe lengths and fitting counts and calculates excavation, bedding, and backfill against surfaces. CivilTakeoff measures utility runs and counts structures on PDF plans. Decide which tool supplies each pipe or structure item before combining the outputs.
Combining quantities in the estimate
Keep the surface model in AGTEK and measure the assigned 2D scopes in CivilTakeoff. Export the CivilTakeoff quantities as XLSX, then match item codes and units in your estimate. Record the source of each total so utility lengths measured in both tools are counted once.
Limits to consider
CivilTakeoff does not calculate surface-based cut and fill, import AGTEK projects, LandXML, or terrain models, or produce machine-control files. Keep surface and trench modeling in AGTEK. Automatic area selection requires supported vector PDFs; measure scans manually.
Frequently asked questions
Which quantities should I measure in CivilTakeoff alongside AGTEK?
Use CivilTakeoff for assigned PDF scopes such as pavement area, curb length, and structure counts. Keep Gradework as the source for surface quantities.
Does AGTEK also measure utilities?
Yes. Underground measures pipe lengths and fitting counts and calculates trench excavation, bedding, and backfill against surfaces.
Can I use both on the same estimate?
Yes. Assign each quantity to a source, use consistent item codes and units, and reconcile the combined list for duplicate scope.
Which files should I start with in CivilTakeoff?
Use the original plan PDFs for CivilTakeoff measurement. Retain the AGTEK model and its reports for the quantities produced there.