Light steel frame buyer guides
How to estimate light steel frame quantities
A step-by-step method for turning drawings into light steel frame quantities for a request for quotation, with an area converter.
A quantity estimate turns drawings into the numbers you put in a request for quotation. This guide covers the method. It gives no prices and no steel weights per square meter, because those depend on the engineered design.
Step 1: take measurements from current drawings
Use the latest issued drawings, not a sketch. Record total wall length by wall type (external, internal, load-bearing), floor area per level and roof plan area.
Step 2: convert areas first
The tool below converts between square meters and square feet and multiplies by a rate you enter, so drawings in different units can be brought to one unit before you ask for quotes.
Step 3: list the frame components
| Component | Measure it by |
|---|---|
| Wall frames | Wall length and height, by wall type |
| Floor joists / sub-floor | Floor area and span |
| Roof trusses | Number of trusses, span and spacing |
| Roof batten and purlins | Roof plan area |
| Fixings | Per the engineer's connection schedule |
Step 4: state the waste allowance
Write the allowance as its own figure so suppliers can see it. Do not bury it in the quantities.
Step 5: have the supplier's shop drawings checked
Suppliers usually produce detailed member lists. Compare their totals with your takeoff and ask about any large difference.
Where Digital Oro fits
Digital Oro International's material catalog lists a light steel frame built from AS1397 G550 AZ150 steel in 0.75 or 0.95 mm, zinc-aluminum coated at more than 150 g/m2, and says it can supply frames in Australian and American standards. The catalog lists wall frames, floor joists, roof trusses and sub-floor systems. It gives no prices, stock levels or lead times; those come from a quotation. See the light steel frame catalog page or browse all ten categories.
Put your quantities and required documents into the RFQ builder.
Questions people ask
Where do quantities come from?
From current issued drawings: wall length, floor area and roof area, by type.
Should I add waste?
Yes, as a separately stated allowance.
Does the tool give a rate?
No. You enter your own rate.
Sources and further reading
Have a project outline or drawings?
Organize your scope, then contact Digital Oro through its official channel. Availability, engineering, pricing and delivery terms need project-specific confirmation.
Text Digital Oro on WhatsApp Explore Digital Oro →+52 1 984 452 3553 · the WhatsApp number Digital Oro lists publicly
Digital Oro International advertises on The Company Chronicle. This guide was written by our editorial team from public sources and general professional practice; it does not describe a guarantee, quote or offer from Digital Oro International. Confirm current terms, prices and availability with the operator before you decide.