According to Paul Menninger, most business owners in the stone and countertop industry focus on net results: margins, jobs completed, revenue. What often gets overlooked is accuracy at the front end. With MeasureSquare Stone & Tile stone fabricator software, Paul and his team at Capitol Granite don’t just maintain accuracy; they prevent costly errors before they ever happen.

Previously, Paul relied on Bluebeam, where nearly 50% of his time was spent figuring out where the deviations were between the initial takeoff and what was actually installed. Today, that same time goes into estimating and winning jobs–a transformative shift.

Being able to implement tagging, affiliating parts, and phased work have made his workflow smoother, more transparent, and more resilient when it comes to handling inevitable change orders.

And Paul knows a thing or two about innovation. Early in his career, he worked with Flow International to program waterjet machines, back when jobs had to be programmed from hard templates. It was redundant, error-prone work, and it showed him firsthand the cost of inefficiency. 

Around that time, he founded Capitol Granite. A decade later, the company expanded into the commercial sector, where Paul quickly encountered a major challenge: over- or under-ordering materials.

“We made our way into the commercial sector where the margins are better, but the risk is also higher. The downside is greater if you do it wrong. The upside is very lucrative if you’re capable of doing it right.”

Key milestones since then include going fully digital about eight years ago, expanding into a 24K square foot facility, and, most recently, adopting MeasureSquare Stone & Tile in 2023–all of which paved the way for smarter, more efficient workflows.

Consistent Nomenclature via Tagging: Staying Aligned
For Paul, tagging inside MeasureSquare Stone & Tile stone fabricator software has been a game changer. “All the activities associated with a project are seamlessly connected. We can phase the work, affiliate the parts, and keep every file consistent throughout the process,” he explained.

That consistency is especially powerful once jobs hit the shop. By tagging sinks, splashes, cutouts, and edges during the takeoff, those details flow directly into fabrication drawings with no risk of getting lost in translation. Instead of relying on notes or renaming parts by hand, Paul’s team delivers complete files to the shop, making it clear what gets cut, fabricated, and installed.

The result: smoother handoffs, fewer mistakes on the floor, and far less rework. 

“The opportunity cost of preventing rework is massive. Rework isn’t just material; it’s labor, managing the shop, interrupting everyone’s life. Measure Square cuts that out upfront,” Paul explained.

Phased Work: Managing Complex Jobs Without Overbuying
Commercial projects often require work to be broken into phases–bathrooms first, then a salad bar, then the rest of the space. Without planning, material orders quickly go wrong. MeasureSquare Stone & Tile lets Paul label phases within the same file and run slab optimization accordingly.

“There’s nothing worse than buying 12 slabs for a 12-slab job, only to find out later you need 14 because the work was phased,” Paul said. “Measure Square makes sure that doesn’t happen.”

Unified Teamwork & Handling Change Orders
Measure Square Stone & Tile doesn’t just improve accuracy; it keeps the entire team aligned. From sales to fabrication to installation, everyone works from the same tagged parts, phased plans, and takeoffs.

Change orders, while unavoidable, no longer derail projects. Paul can model scenarios in advance, compare slab sizes, tie labor estimates to material choices, and instantly see the cost and yield impact of each option. In conversations with owners or designers, he can adjust the takeoff and provide a visual, accurate answer without starting over.

“Being able to do it fast and right is key to this game,” Paul said. “That speed and accuracy set us apart. In the past, change orders meant manually adjusting drawings and losing hours to rework. With Measure Square, that’s gone.

Value Engineering: Winning Jobs With Smarter Proposals
MeasureSquare Stone & Tile has also given Paul a competitive edge in bidding. Instead of submitting a single number, he can test alternatives on the fly, swap slab sizes, and generate new layouts without redoing entire takeoffs. This allows him to present clients with options, explain cost impacts with visuals, and educate them on choices competitors rarely highlight.

“With Measure Square, I can lay out a project, calculate the slabs needed, then create another version by adjusting seam locations to get a much better material yield,” Paul explained. “That lets me pass most of the savings on to the client in a true value-engineered proposal.”

The software also makes it easy to adapt layouts across different slab sizes, thicknesses, or layers.

“I can convert, add, and reprice with just a few clicks,” Paul said. “That lets me quickly present multiple options, show the value proposition, and position us as a partner rather than just a contractor.”

“Our competitor gives a number. We give a number with proof,” Paul added. “That transparency puts us in a different light with the same set of clients.”

This ability to value-engineer has translated into winning more jobs–and often, repeat business.

From Damage Control to Estimating

The personal impact for Paul has been dramatic. “I used to spend 50% of my time fixing problems from an inefficient process. Now, I spend that time estimating,” he explained. “Production installs the job, and I don’t hear about it again until it’s time to invoice.”

That shift, from damage control to proactive estimating, Paul says is difficult to quantify but invaluable for both efficiency and peace of mind.

From Bluebeam to Measure Square: A Necessary Leap

Paul’s experience with Bluebeam underscored the gaps that MeasureSquare Stone & Tile filled. In Bluebeam, there was:

• No consistent nomenclature: Different names for the same part at each stage
• No ability to affiliate parts: Notes were the only workaround
• No phased work: Making complex jobs risky to bid
• No visual representation: Harder to scope jobs or catch errors

With MeasureSquare Stone & Tile, Paul gained the optics, accuracy, and flexibility that Bluebeam couldn’t provide.

Stone-Specific Tools: Built for Fabricators

In addition, what really caught Paul’s eye when first getting a demo of MeasureSquare Stone & Tile, were the stone-focused tools built directly into the software.

“When I first saw it with Matt at a trade show, I was blown away by how fast and visual takeoffs were,” Paul said. “Affiliating splashes, laminations, and creating substrate layers was simple. Everything’s built for stone, and nothing extra gets in the way.”

With MeasureSquare Stone & Tile, he can:

• Visually create shapes
• Add miters or backsplashes with a single click
• Tag every detail for accurate tracking
• Segregate and categorize parts for fabrication

Through the Slab Optimizer in MeasureSquare Stone & Tile, Paul can:

• Nest pieces in a project
• Test different slab sizes
• Calculate material yield

For Paul, that clarity is crucial: “Stone is our biggest cost center. If I can get the yield right, I know what the job is really going to cost.”

The result is an accurate takeoff that ties directly into fabrication, helping Paul focus on doing each job right the first time.

Effectiveness Over Efficiency: Paul’s Philosophy

Paul believes Measure Square’s biggest strength is that it supports his philosophy of effectiveness over efficiency. While most of the industry focuses on pushing more square footage through the shop, Paul zeroes in on doing it right the first time.

“Nobody talks about effectiveness, or doing it right the first time, on time, every time. Efficiency doesn’t matter if you’re doing the same thing twice and not getting paid for it,” he said.

For him, effectiveness means fewer errors, less rework, and more profit. “If you focus on effectiveness, all the efficiency metrics fall into place anyway,” Paul explained. “You make more money by doing it right upfront.”

Final Thoughts

With MeasureSquare Stone & Tile, Paul has turned effectiveness and preventative processes into a competitive advantage, proving that doing it right the first time is the best path to profit, repeat business, and client trust.

For more information on MeasureSquare Stone & Tile, click here.

To schedule a free demo, click here.

Before After

Project Details

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile makes it easy to complete a stone wrapped bench takeoff.

Platform

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile

Industry

Commercial Interior

Trade

Stone / Laminate

Project Type

Stone Wrapped Bench

Background

This stone wrapped bench takeoff project includes a lobby bench featuring stone cladding over a metal framework. The design is intended to appear as three solid stone blocks but is actually composed of twelve pieces: three on the outer faces, six on the end faces (three per side), and three on the underside.

Challenge

Ensuring the system correctly interprets the piece layout so that faces are wrapped properly requires creating laminates, then dividing those laminates into additional pieces to achieve the correct orientation. To produce mitered edges on the end faces, it’s also necessary to split and delete certain edges so the system can accurately recognize the layout.

Project Overview:

Project File & Reports:

Before After

Project Details

Platform

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile

Industry

Commercial Interior

Trade

Stone / Laminate

Project Type

Stone Wrapped Bench

Background

Accurately capturing a circular fireplace bench involves recognizing the practical limitations of installation and producing cut details that installers can realistically execute. For this design, the top face can be drawn as solid semi-circular cuts, whereas the outer and bottom faces must be divided into several facets to achieve the circular form.

Challenge

Accurately modeling a circular fireplace requires creating precise geometry for each cut piece; applying the spatial thought and utilizing the correct tools to ensure the cuts are interpreted correctly in 3D.

Project Overview:

Project File & Reports:

Before After

Project Details

How to use MeasureSquare Stone & Tile to complete a curved reception desk takeoff with ease.

Platform

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile

Industry

Commercial Interior

Trade

Stone / Laminate

Project Type

Curved Reception Desk

Background

A reception desk constructed in stone, designed with a primary desk surface, an elevated transaction counter, a recessed toe kick, and vertically fluted front panels, along with matching returns.

Challenge

To meet the client’s requirements, multiple areas were created at different 3D height levels to accurately represent the requested conditions and ensure proper rendering. This single desk required four separate parent areas, each with coordinated laminates, so that the model would render correctly and the components could be accurately quantified and sized for real-world installation.

Project Overview:

Project File & Reports:

Before After

Project Details

Platform

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile

Industry

Residential Interior

Trade

Stone / Laminate

Project Type

Curved Kitchen Counter

Background

Residential projects often call for unique stone applications, and in this curved kitchen countertop takeoff, the rounded casework with a knee space needed to be fully clad in stone at the customer’s request.

Challenge

Accurately defining the rounded edge geometry so the system interprets the curves and laminate buildup in 3D, followed by refining the countertop’s underside return to align with the casework support radius.

Project Overview:

Project File & Reports:

Before After

Project Details

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile makes it easy to complete master bathroom takeoffs.

Platform

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile

Industry

Residential Interior

Trade

Stone / Laminate

Project Type

Master Bathroom

Background

This master suite features natural stone slabs applied seamlessly across the shower surround, tub deck, knee wall, and vanity tops. The hard surfaces are grounded by 12” x 24” floor tile, while the design is elevated by intricate details: a hexagonal mosaic in the shower and a fan-pattern mosaic accenting the tub. The materials blend into a cohesive palette, curated to create a soothing atmosphere.

Challenge

Master bathrooms are one of the most significant investments a homeowner can make, serving as both a daily sanctuary and a primary driver of property value. Because this space is defined by hard, unforgiving surfaces like stone and tile, precision is not just a goal—it is a requirement. In a room where water and electricity meet, there is little margin for error. True luxury lies in the details: the seamless blending of color palettes to create a calming atmosphere, and superior installation quality that ensures longevity.

Project Overview:

Project File & Reports:

Before After

Project Details

Platform

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile

Industry

Hotel Lobby

Trade

Stone / Laminate

Project Type

Lounge Angular Fireplace

Background

A bespoke stone and glass hearth seamlessly integrated into a feature wall of timber millwork. The fireplace serves as a textural focal point, framed by custom shelving that balances architectural precision with a warm, inviting glow.

Challenge

Precise technical drafting, ensuring that every angle is rendered with accuracy, facilitating exact material takeoffs and quantity estimations.

Project Overview:

Project File & Reports:

Before After

Project Details

Platform

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile

Industry

Hotel Lobby

Trade

Stone / Laminate

Project Type

2 Toned Lobby Floor

Background

A striking two-toned stone inlay anchors the lobby, seamlessly connecting the reception and bar-lounge areas. The interplay of organic curves and rhythmic linear striping creates a sense of motion, intuitively guiding the guest’s gaze and drawing them toward the bar.

Challenge

A striking two-toned stone inlay anchors the lobby, seamlessly connecting the reception and bar-lounge areas. The interplay of organic curves and rhythmic linear striping creates a sense of motion, intuitively guiding the guest’s gaze and drawing them toward the bar.

Project Overview:

Project File & Reports:

Are you tired of over- or under-purchasing slabs? Fed up with your outdated takeoff software? Is your business growing faster than your technology can keep up? Here’s your solution: MeasureSquare Stone & Tile.

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile is a powerful software solution for tile layout, takeoff and estimating—designed specifically for stone, countertop and tile projects. Developed for retailers, fabricators and commercial projects, MeasureSquare Stone & Tile takeoff software saves time, eliminates errors, and enables estimators to quickly take off custom kitchens, full bathroom layouts, and commercial lobbies.

From Days to A Couple of Clicks: Speeding Up Slab Nesting

After importing CAD or PDF plans, users can complete takeoff, estimating, pricing, and automated shop drawings—all within MeasureSquare Stone & Tile. The construction takeoff software supports the creation of complex tile pattern designs and helps prevent over- or under-purchasing by nesting materials with the Slab Optimizer. It also implements book- and vein-matching through the Dry Lay feature, along with a tagging function to easily make adjustments.

Sadie Anderson, VP of Marketing & Design at CKF, was frustrated with her team’s day-long process for calculating slab utilization—until they discovered MeasureSquare Stone & Tile.

“We took what was a days-long process of nesting slabs down to a couple clicks of a button. Slab utilization is done in seconds. Our team has saved so much time to do more business, prepare more estimates, and take better care of our customers,” says Anderson.

Quick, Professional Proposals

MeasureSquare Stone & Tile facilitates quick professional proposals and quotes. Its Worksheet function generates estimates with breakdowns and alternates, while shop drawings can be exported as DXF files for CNC and waterjet processing. The software also has a 3D rendering view. Plus, automatic syncing of projects and files to MeasureSquare Cloud ensures secure storage and easy access across devices.

By speeding up the takeoff and estimating process with this easy-to-learn software, business owners can win more jobs and grow their business. But managing those projects efficiently is just as critical—and that’s where MeasureSquare CRM comes in.

MeasureSquare CRM: Streamline Your Entire Workflow

MeasureSquare CRM is a trade-specific platform designed to streamline every stage of a construction project—from lead generation to job completion. Unlike general CRMs, it seamlessly integrates with MeasureSquare tools, including MeasureSquare Stone & Tile, reducing manual data entry and ensuring accurate bids, quotes, and job costing. Teams can track project leads, manage installation schedules, automate work orders, and monitor profitability, while maintaining communication through integrations with Gmail, Outlook, QuickBooks Online, and Xero. Whether you have a single retail shop, focus on fabrication, or handle the commercial sector, Measure Square will track everything in one location and keep everyone in sync.

With built-in tools for SoV tracking, product ordering, and jobsite progress monitoring, MeasureSquare CRM eliminates outdated workflows, helping businesses scale, reduce paperwork, and gain visibility—all in one platform.

Try a complimentary 14-day trial of MeasureSquare Stone & Tile: Begin your trial.
For more information about the full suite of Measure Square products, visit the Measure Square website.

About Measure Square

Based in Pasadena, Calif., Measure Square is a leading provider of takeoff, estimating, and project management software for the building materials industry. The Measure Square platform simplifies workflows, reduces errors, and improves efficiency, from on-site estimating to accurate estimates to installation management and profitability tracking. Measure Square integrated tools save time, minimize waste, and drive growth—helping you stay ahead in the industry.

One of the key features offered by both Measure Square and general takeoff software is digital takeoff creation. This feature allows users to accurately measure areas, lengths, and volumes on digital plans, enabling them to estimate materials and labor costs with precision. However, Measure Square takes it a step further by offering tools specifically designed for stone and tile projects.

Measure Square boasts tools that allow users to create splash and laminate pieces effortlessly. With custom splash and laminate options, creating countertop assemblies and accurate takeoffs becomes a breeze. Additionally, Measure Square’s 3D view capabilities enhance presentations and provide a comprehensive visual representation of the project. In contrast, general takeoff software lacks these specific features, making Measure Square a superior choice for stone and tile projects.

Another standout feature of Measure Square is its ability to generate slab layouts automatically. Traditionally, creating layouts manually using CAD programs was a time-consuming task. However, Measure Square streamlines the process by automatically generating slab layouts based on room dimensions. This time-saving feature is unavailable in general takeoff software, giving Measure Square a significant advantage.

Similarly, Measure Square offers automatic elevation generation, simplifying the creation of detailed wall layouts. By generating elevations quickly based on room dimensions, users can save valuable time and focus on other aspects of the project. On the contrary, general takeoff software lacks this feature, further highlighting Measure Square’s industry-specific tools.

Customizability is crucial for professionals in the construction industry, and Measure Square understands this need. The software provides customizable worksheets, allowing users to create personalized worksheets that align with their specific requirements. Whether it’s tracking client or vendor data or any other project-specific information, Measure Square’s customizable worksheets offer flexibility that general takeoff software lacks.

Another unique feature of Measure Square is its custom tagging system. This system allows users to tag items in their takeoff easily. Whether it’s room types, unit types, floors, or any other criteria, the custom tagging system enables users to create detailed breakdowns effortlessly. Additionally, the tagging system facilitates batch processing of cut-to-size materials and ensures seamless blending across the project. This feature is absent in general takeoff software, making Measure Square a superior choice for stone and tile projects.

Measure Square’s splitter tools provide yet another advantage for users. These tools allow users to add seams or joints to their stone layouts easily. By controlling the seam locations, users can ensure slab efficiency and customer satisfaction. Unfortunately, general takeoff software does not offer this feature, underscoring Measure Square’s industry-specific focus.

Incorporating visuals is essential for effective communication and understanding in construction projects. Measure Square understands this and offers a photo tool that allows users to include takeoff screenshots and slab photos seamlessly. This feature ensures that both users and clients are on the same page, minimizing misunderstandings. General takeoff software does not provide this feature, making Measure Square a superior choice for visual documentation.

When dealing with large takeoffs, finding specific items quickly is crucial. Measure Square addresses this need by offering a search and select feature. Users can search for specific pieces or find entire groupings within their takeoff, allowing for easy review and modification of areas. General takeoff software lacks this feature, further highlighting Measure Square’s attention to detail.

Both Measure Square and general takeoff software allow users to set the precision of their takeoff measurements. This feature is particularly useful when accuracy is paramount in the estimation process.

Furthermore, both Measure Square and general takeoff software offer a 3D view feature. This feature allows users to visualize their takeoff in three dimensions, enabling them to identify potential issues and gain a comprehensive understanding of the project. While this feature is available in both software options, Measure Square’s industry-specific tools and features make it a superior choice for stone and tile projects.

Measure Square’s Project Database is a standout feature that sets it apart from general takeoff software. This database allows users to create and reuse common project materials, such as stone, labor, and setting materials. This feature significantly streamlines the estimation process, saving time and ensuring consistency across projects. General takeoff software lacks this functionality, making Measure Square a valuable asset for professionals in the industry.

Finally, Measure Square excels at creating professional bid packages. With this software, users can generate detailed estimates, complete with breakdowns and automatically generated screenshots, all within minutes. The ability to create comprehensive bid packages directly within Measure Square eliminates the need for additional programs like Excel. This feature is invaluable for professionals who need to provide detailed bids to clients and further solidifies Measure Square as the go-to choice for stone and tile estimating.

In conclusion, when it comes to stone and tile estimating software, Measure Square is unmatched in its industry-specific tools, features, and results. From the creation of digital takeoffs to automatic slab layout and elevation generation, Measure Square excels in streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency. Its customizable worksheets, custom tagging system, and splitter tools provide a level of flexibility and precision that general takeoff software cannot match. With the inclusion of a photo tool, search and select functionality and a comprehensive product database, Measure Square goes above and beyond to meet the unique needs of professionals in the stone and tile industry. By enabling users to create professional bid packages effortlessly, Measure Square ensures that professionals can win more bids with ease. For those seeking superior features, benefits, and results in their stone and tile estimating software, Measure Square is a clear choice.