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1. Wrong scale
Using the wrong scale is the most common mistake. Always set the scale before measuring, and double-check by measuring a known dimension.
2. Measuring from printed plans
Printed plans are rarely perfectly to scale. Printers distort dimensions, and folding or rolling adds more error. Measure digitally from the original PDF whenever possible.
3. Forgetting to deduct openings
When measuring wall areas, always deduct windows and doors. It is easy to miss them on complex plans.
4. Not accounting for waste
Your measurements give you net quantities. Add a waste factor that matches the trade and material, usually between 5% and 10%.
5. Measuring the wrong plan revision
Make sure you are working from the latest revision. Older plans can have different dimensions, and measuring the wrong version leads to costly errors.
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