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Module 2 of 10

Quantity Takeoff: Substructure

Measure everything below plinth level — earthwork, PCC, footings, plinth masonry and the protective layers (backfilling, soling, anti-termite treatment and DPC) — using IS 1200 measurement rules and site-tested methods.

After this module you can

You can produce a complete, defensible substructure quantity sheet from a foundation plan: excavation, PCC, footing concrete or masonry, plinth work, backfilling, soling, anti-termite treatment and DPC, each with the correct unit and measurement basis.

  1. 2.1 Centre Line Method vs Long Wall–Short WallBoth methods give the same answer when applied correctly — and different answers when junctions are handled sloppily. Learn the rules with one building solved both ways.8 min read
  2. 2.2 Earthwork and Excavation Quantities (With Working Space)The volume you dig and the volume you get paid for are two different numbers. Learn the IS 1200 measurement rules — and see a pit where the actual dig is 2.8 times the paid quantity.9 min read
  3. 2.3 PCC and Footing Concrete TakeoffPCC offsets, stepped footings and the frustum formula — the three places footing concrete takeoffs go wrong, solved with a 12-column worked example.8 min read
  4. 2.4 Plinth Masonry, Backfilling and SolingThe most double-billed item in residential construction is soil going back into the ground. Learn to derive backfill and plinth fill by arithmetic — and catch the classic traps.7 min read
  5. 2.5 Anti-Termite Treatment and DPC QuantitiesTwo cheap layers stand between your building and its two most patient enemies — termites and rising damp. Learn to compute the litres and square metres, and to audit the quotes.7 min read
  6. 2.6 Worked Example: Full Substructure Takeoff of a 2BHKOne 2BHK, one centre-line statement, every substructure quantity from excavation to DPC — ending in the summary sheet this module promised you could produce.8 min read