1.1 Background
To align the teaching and learning of building measurement with current industry practices and standards in Australia, it is essential to update traditional teaching materials. Existing textbooks predominantly focus on manual measurement methods and provide limited coverage of computer-based techniques that are now widely adopted in professional practice. This handbook addresses this gap by integrating digital measurement tools, particularly RIB CostX software, which reflects contemporary industry workflows. The approach adopted in this book aligns with the principles of the Australian and New Zealand Standard Method of Measurement (ANZSMM) and industry practices.
This handbook covers key trades, namely groundworks, concrete, formwork, reinforcement, and masonry. The key goals of this handbook are to:
- increase access to high-quality, up-to-date resources that reflect current industry practices
- support students in transitioning from manual to digital measurement techniques
- promote collaborative and innovative learning through the sharing of resources within both the academic and professional communities, and
- ensure alignment with accreditation requirements and adherence to Australian industry standards.
Chapter two presents the technologies related to trades classified under groundworks. Items such as clearing the site, topsoil excavation, removal of trees, basement excavation, pit excavation, trench excavation, backfilling, disposal of surplus excavated materials, working space and paper and plastic membranes are discussed. The chapter outlines the specific measurement rules and description writing conventions for these items. The measurement process is then demonstrated using a real-world building project, with examples provided using RIB CostX software.
Chapter three focuses on concrete works. It introduces various concrete elements such as strip footings, slabs, and pad footings, as well as associated considerations like grade, thickness, and form of construction. The chapter details the rules for measurement and description of concrete works, followed by worked examples using CostX software to illustrate digital take-off procedures.
Chapter four describes the measurement of formwork. It explains the function and types of formworks used in different structural components. The chapter clarifies the measurement principles, such as deductions, repetitions, and surface areas to be included. The use of digital tools to automate surface area measurement is demonstrated through step-by-step CostX examples.
Chapter five explains reinforcement works. It covers reinforcement types and bar sizes. Measurement conventions for reinforcement are also introduced in this chapter. The chapter then discusses the process of quantifying reinforcement from drawings using CostX software to enable users of this handbook understand the digital measurement processes of reinforcement.
Chapter six focuses on masonry, covering various types of walls (solid, veneer, and cavity), as well as piers and damp-proof membrane. It discusses typical wall construction, bond patterns, and openings, along with the measurement of wall areas and piers. Measurement rules are explained, and users are guided through how to perform take offs using CostX software to extract accurate masonry quantities from digital plans.
