Construction Apps Handyman Calculator vs AutoCAD - DWG Viewer & Editor vs PlanGrid - for Construction ... and 19 more
Edited by Jay
The construction industry is yet another sector that has a litany of useful mobile optimized apps, that can be helpful for both on site and in the office. Everything from architectural plans through to safety and crew communication can be easily managed with a few carefully selected apps.
Below we discuss a broad range of mobile apps for both Android and iOS that useful for those working in construction, engineering, design and more. Depending on your role and duties, some apps may prove more useful than others, so we recommend you test as many as you can.
Also, if you find an app you like but have suggestions or concerns, leave feedback for the app developers on the app's page or via their internal support system.
Method 1: Handyman Calculator
Thoroughly tested by over 1000 contractors, the Handyman Calculator app is an excellent calculator that operates with simple input functions.
Never second guess material/supply calculations again, with the Handyman Calculator, users can be certain their figures are correct.
- 1ProductivityType.
- 2Features.
- Calculates; Square footage, CutList, Feet and inches, Construction projects, Job estimates, Angles, Fractions and a whole lot more.
- Functions as a to-do list.
- Track time on certain tasks/jobs.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4
Method 2: AutoCAD - DWG Viewer & Editor
The AutoCAD Mobile DWG Viewer & Editor is a great way for construction professionals to stay productive on-site.
With a tablet or a smartphone, designers and contractors can pull up, edit and manage DWG files on the fly, directly in the field.
- 1ProductivityType.
- 2Features.
- Create new files (drawings) on the go.
- Easily and accurately measure while in the field.
- Multi-touch, pan, and zoom to navigate around large drawings.
- Make notes or modifications to DWG files.
- Access to advanced editing tools, offset, arc, etc.
- GPS support to locate your drawing plot.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- In-app purchases ranging from $4.99 - $99.99 per item.
- 4Download/Install.
- The AutoCAD DWG Viewer & Editor app can be downloaded from Google Play and iTunes.
Method 3: PlanGrid - for Construction
PlanGrid is one of the quickest construction blueprint viewers available on the market today.
All team members, regardless of location, are kept up-to-date with any markups, edits, or changes via the apps instant notifications and alert options.
- 1BusinessType.
- Quickly access blueprints on any mobile device.
- Set hyperlinks for important drawing notes.
- Users can pin progress images directly to drawings.
- Any markups, edits or notes get synced across all devices instantly.
- Instant alerts on edits and project changes or updates.
- Free version.
- In-app purchases ranging from $1.00 - $139.99 per item.
Method 4: Handy Construction Calculator
Handy Construction Calculator by Sidetop Software is another multi-purpose, mobile construction calculator that's great for in the field.
With access to 70+ professional tools, the Handy Construction Calculator for Android is a powerful little mobile app for contractors and professionals alike.
- 1ProductivityType.
- 2Features.
- Tools for; Roofing, Framing, Flooring, Foundation, Electrical, Masonry, Paving and more.
- Calculate profit/loss, margins, discounts, work time, travel time and more.
- Quickly share results via email, social media, etc.
- Easy to follow diagrams for input and output help.
- Switch between metric and imperial units.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4
Method 5: Contractor Estimate & Invoice
Contractor Estimate & Invoice by Joist Inc. gives contractors the power to create professional grade invoices and estimates, right on-site.
In the construction industry, time is money, and being able to produce top notch estimates, directly in the field, only increases the likelihood of winning more contracts.
- 1BusinessType.
- 2Features.
- Personalize invoices and estimates with company logos and details.
- Quick and accurate material and labour calculations.
- Attach images to your estimates.
- Set specific tax rates.
- Track payments and outstanding invoice balances.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4
Method 6: Construction Master Pro
Designed and created by Calculated Industries, the Construction Master Pro app is a two-in-one (Pro & Trig), professional grade calculator.
Professionals can enjoy all the same functionality as Calculated Industries' handheld calculators, right from their prefered mobile device.
- 1ToolsType.
- 2Features.
- Access to full trigonometry functions and calculations.
- Onboard math and dimensional conversions.
- Easily convert between various building dimensional formats.
- Fraction/Decimal conversions.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- $24.99
- 4
Method 7: Thumbtack for Professionals
The Thumbtack for Professionals mobile app is a great tool for contractors to handle multiple clients and customer requests, all from one convenient location.
Users can get notifications and alerts when specific client requests or jobs come in, then view specific data and reply with estimates or quotes.
- 1BusinessType.
- 2Features.
- 5 million + customer requests per year.
- Customers inform Thumbtack about their job requirements and send the details to user's inboxes for free.
- Users only pay when they find a job to send an estimate/quote to.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- In-app purchases ranging from $1.67 - $399.99 per item.
- 4
Method 8: Raken Daily Reporting
The Raken Daily Reporting app is an ideal mobile tool for construction professionals responsible for creating or editing daily reports.
Users can either type or dictate information directly from their tablet or smartphone, right on the job site.
- 1ProductivityType.
- 2Features.
- Add custom logs for safety issues, subcontractors, progress, materials, equipment and more.
- Imputed data auto-syncs with the app's website.
- Attach relevant documents to reports.
- Produce a report (daily) in PDF format and share with a single tap.
- Collaborate with other professionals also using the Raken app.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4
Method 9: Timesheet
Timesheet is a simple yet functional app for Android that helps users keep track of their job hours and time spent on client projects.
Timesheet comes stock with a healthy list of useful features and performs as an all-in-one, time and project tracker.
- 1BusinessType.
- 2Features.
- Record time with a traditional punch in/out function.
- View charts and graphs for monthly values.
- Various views available, daily, weekly, monthly and yearly.
- Supports multiple jobs and or projects.
- Track and log project/job expenses.
- Create customized invoices.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- In-app purchases at $8.99 per item.
- 4
Method 10: BIMx - BIM eXplorer
BIM eXplorer by GRAPHISOFT is a mobile app designed to view and navigate complex 2D/3D drawings and building component information, on-the-fly.
BIM eXplorer allows multiple users (stakeholders, contractors, architects, etc.) to see all the construction documentation and plans, at anytime.
- 1ProductivityType.
- 2Features.
- Ultra quick documentation viewer (2D).
- Access all building component-related BIM data.
- View models and drawings in realistic photo mode.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- In-app purchases at $49.99 per item.
- 4
Method 11: TSheets Time Tracker
The TSheets Time Tracker app for Android and iOS is a mobile scheduling time tracking system for employers.
TSheets eliminates the need for dated paper timecards by handling everything via a reliable online cloud-based system.
- 1ProductivityType.
- 2Features.
- Tracks employee clock ins/outs using GPS tracking, even while out of data range by syncing up the moment data become available
- Fluid integration with popular bookkeeping software such as QuickBooks Online & QuickBooks for PC.
- Keeps detailed logs of all clock ins/outs and keeps it stored on a secure server.
- Receive alerts when workers don't sign in, and when employees are nearing limits.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4
Method 12: GnaCAD
GnaCAD is another mobile drawing viewer for Android that allows users to open large drawings directly on a tablet or phone.
GnaCAD lets users open drawing stored on the memory card of their device, and does not require any sort of registration to work on or view drawings.
- 1ProductivityType.
- 2Features.
- Opens any file size.
- Viewing drawings does not require an internet connection.
- View in realistic photo mode.
- 3D views supported.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- In-app purchases ranging from $0.99 - $29.99 per item.
- 4
Method 13: Invoice & Estimate - JobFLEX
The Invoice & Estimate app by JobFLEX functions as an on-the-go invoice, estimation, and payment management tool.
In addition to creating slick looking estimates, it can also manage material and supply lists, across multiple jobs or contracts.
- 1BusinessType.
- 2Features.
- Produce professional looking quotes and invoices in minutes, right from a mobile device.
- Organize and store all your client info and profiles.
- Receive payments quicker by getting your invoice in immediately upon job completion.
- No connection required to generate invoices or estimates.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- In-app purchases ranging from $9.99 - $19.99 per item.
- 4
Method 14: Fieldwire - Construction
With 100,000+ projects and counting, the Fieldwire Construction app is a powerful and trusted tool for any level of construction management.
Fieldwire keeps everyone on the team fully connected and on the same page, through every phase of development. Managing multiple trades and subcontractors can be a headache, Fieldwire brings everything together into an organized and easy-to-use interface.
- 1BusinessType.
- 2Features.
- View drawings fast in HD.
- Attach and share progress photos.
- Create and edit markups, notes or annotations on drawings.
- Schedule tasks based on priority, location, trades, etc.
- Create inspection checklist templates.
- Setup custom push notifications.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4
Method 15: FINALCAD - For construction
FINALCAD is construction plan viewer and editor that allows multiple users to collaborate and contribute to projects at the same time.
FINALCAD allows users to communicate and edit drawings in real-time, with other team members or contractors.
- 1BusinessType.
- 2Features.
- Edit plans as images files or PDFs via Dropbox.
- Easily navigate between plans/sites by either gallery mode or search mode.
- Share plans and reports via email.
- Supports multiple users.
- Pro version available.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- In-app purchases at $4.49 per item.
- 4
Method 16: Construction & Civil Engineer
Construction & Civil Engineer by Construct App delivers powerful high-end management software in a simple and easy-use mobile app.
As an all-in-one construction communication and project management tool, the Construction & Civil Engineer app is garnering more and more attention from industry professionals.
- 1ProductivityType.
- 2Features.
- Fully manage construction projects from your mobile device or PC.
- Make quick notes and take photos of significant developments on site.
- Delegate and assign problem/issue resolutions.
- Customize when alerts and messages go out to team members.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4Download/Install.
- The Construction & Civil Engineer mobile app can be downloaded from Google Play and iTunes.
Method 17: CoConstruct
CoConstruct is a cloud-based construction and remodeling app, optimized for smartphones and tablets.
With a 98% customer satisfaction rating, CoConstruct has established itself as a front-runner in construction management software and tools.
- 1ProductivityType.
- 2Features.
- Create professional proposals.
- Track expenses and material costs and inventory.
- Effortlessly coordinate between the office and sites.
- Log, monitor and track job site productivity.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4
Method 18: Build & Construction ZA
Build & Construction ZA is a virtual product display tool that brings buyers and suppliers of all sectors together.
Companies can display their products and services 24/7, while buyers can browse through various industries, directly from their mobile device.
- 1BusinessType.
- 2Features.
- View company overview with important contact information.
- Direct link to company's website.
- Set push notifications and alerts.
- View product/service exhibits in high resolution.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4
Method 19: Photo Measures
Photo Measures by Big Blue Pixel Inc. is yet another valuable mobile tool to have on you when in the field or on the construction site.
Being able to accurately measure distances and objects directly with your smartphone or tablet is quite convenient when working in construction.
- 1ProductivityType.
- 2Features.
- Use the zoom function for more accuracy.
- Draw measurements directly on images taken.
- Export photos with measurements in JPG or PDF.
- Supports both metric and imperial units of measurement.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Android - $4.99
- iOS - $6.99
- 4
Method 20: Construction Week
Construction Week is a print, and online publication that focuses on the construction industry in the GCC (the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman.)
Install Construction Week on your mobile device and stay up-to-date with this ever growing industry, throughout the middle east.
- 1BusinessType.
- 2Features.
- Free (for limited time).
- Great information for contractors, developers, realtors, builders, etc.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4
Method 21: Bubble Level Galaxy
Having an accurate and easy to access bubble level right on your mobile device is highly beneficial for those working in various construction trades.
The Bubble Level Galaxy app is perfect for when you want to check a surface or wall quickly, but don't have your full job site level on hand.
- 1ToolsType.
- 2Features.
- Check levelness of horizontal surfaces.
- Check plumbness of vertical surfaces.
- No ads displayed.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4
Method 22: First Aid - American Red Cross
Although not specifically a construction app, First Aid by the American Red Cross is handy to have around building and construction sites.
The construction industry comes with a fair share of hazardous and dangerous jobs, having quick access to first aid information can make a huge difference in an emergency.
- 1Health & FitnessType.
- 2Features.
- Linked with 9-1-1 emergency services.
- Fully functional offline.
- Simple instructions on everyday first aid situations and responses.
- 3Cost/Fees.
- Free version.
- 4Download/Install.
- The American Red Cross First Aid mobile app can be downloaded from Google Play and iTunes.
If you work in the construction industry at some capacity, you've most likely heard of or even use some of the apps listed above. For those of you just starting out (or for veterans on the prowl for new tools), be sure to try out a few of the construction apps mentioned above. If you're going to carry your phone around in your pocket anyway, you might as well put it to work and let it help pay for itself.
If you have problems with any of the steps in this article, please ask a question for more help, or post in the comments section below.
