Fewer steps, faster takeoffs: a guide to the new Countfire

Countfire has had one of its biggest updates yet. We’ve redesigned key workflows to remove unnecessary steps, reduce interruptions and help you complete takeoffs faster.

Here’s what’s changed, what’s moved and how the new Countfire helps you work more efficiently.

Smart Select: AI where it counts

We’re always looking for ways to make takeoffs faster without compromising accuracy. That means using AI where it genuinely adds value and enhancing the workflows estimators already know, rather than reinventing the takeoff process. That’s why we built Smart Select.

Previously, every time you created an item, you had to stop counting to name and categorise it. With Smart Select, Countfire’s AI automatically names and sorts your selections as you work, so you can count first and organise later.

The result is a faster, smoother takeoff, with the accuracy and control you’d expect from Countfire.

Using Smart Select

• In the Count tab you will see a new toolbar showing that you are in “Smart Select” mode
• As you start making selections, items are created, named and organised automatically
• If you want a selection added to an existing item, switch to “Add to current” (shortcuts: 1 = Smart Select, 2 = Add to current)

Other improvements

• Easily move selections by dragging and dropping them between items, or drag to the right to create a new item
• Preview each selection so you can clearly see what is being counted
• Zones are now live so you only see quantities within your zone(s) as you count

Linear upgrade with automatic bends & tees

Adding fittings has always been one of the most repetitive parts of a linear takeoff: measure the runs, then go back over them for every bend and tee. Our new Length System counts them for you as you draw.

Using Length System

• In the Measure tab there is a new toolbar to select what to measure (lengths, points or areas) - by default it will be set to “Length System” mode
• With “Length System”, bends, tees and reducers will be generated automatically as you measure
• Use the toolbar to switch to standard “Length” mode if you don’t want bends and tees to be added automatically (shortcut = shift + 2)
• As you measure, you will also notice improved snapping controls to help you create exact measures

Find your way around

We’ve moved a few things to more intuitive places and given more room to the tools you use most:

• Save button now top right
• Drawing selector now at the very top
• Copy zones is now within the Zones tab
• New Layout tab for floor plan, overlay and compare
• New Page tab to manage drawing titles

Here to help

If you would prefer one of our Product Specialists to show you around, book a 15-min demo with the support team.