Tools, tools, tools. If there’s one thing all of us have a wish list for, it’s tools. New Makita power tools, better hammers, shop machinery…if only we had more tools! Some tools are in unexpected places though…like like digital tools from your mobile device’s app store. Here’s a list of mobile apps for builders that can improve your day-to-day operations:
1. Photo Measures
Allows you to take a photo of a space or object and draw the measurements directly on it. Makes it easier for contractors to save, share, zoom in, and decide if things will fit within an exact layout.
Price: Lite Version is Free/ Google $6.99/iTunes $4.99
2. Plangrid
Upload plans online and your entire team’s devices will automatically sync in real-time with updated version. Zoom in, take notes and mark tasks directly on the plans and add progress photos so you can remotely update the project team with your comments and screenshots through the Cloud.
Price: Basic Version is Free:
3. Triplog – Gps Mileage Log Tracker
Automates mileage tracking with GPS, Bluetooth, and power source. Allows you to monitor trips to and from your jobs with widgets. Enables vehicle and business expenses tracking, fuel economy calculation, and comprehensive IRS compliant reports.
Price: Basic Plan is Free.
4. iHandy Carpenter
A mobile tool chest with a plumb bob, surface level, bubble level bar, protractor and ruler.
Price: $1.99
5. Construction Master Pro
Helps decide how much drywall you need, how to lay out stairs, as well as where to place roof rafters. Calculates right angle solutions such as rafters, pitch, hip/valley, stair layout and more. Area and volume calculators, unit conversion, number of studs, crown angle, etc.
Price: $24.99
6. Houzz Interior Design Ideas
Houses the largest database of home designs on the Web. Ideas are easy to search, save and share among local designers, architects and contractors. The virtual idea book enables contractors and their clients to speak the same language through pictures.
Price: Free
7. Invoice2Go
Create estimates, purchase orders, and invoices from your phone, tablet or computer. All your documents are synced across your devices, with charts and reports to track who has paid and who still owes you money.
Price: Basic Plan is Free.
Apple App Store | Google Play
8. Camcard
Take a picture of any business card with phone camera and this app will recognize the contact info, save it in Card Holder automatically and sync it with your email and phone contacts.
Price: Basic Version is Free
And that’s not all! Many manufacturers have mobile apps for their products. Check out Simpson StrongTie, Trex, and Valspar.
All these mobile apps for builders can become useful tools to help you run your business more effectively. Do you own any apps you use for your day-to-day work? If so, please share it in the comments!