Roof Wizard quantifies roofing materials based on two main categories: area items and linear items. Understanding how these categories work is essential for accurate material estimation and costing. The process is based upon the creation of roof geometry accurately modelled in 3D space.
The AppliCad Roof Wizard software uses what we describe as 3D CAD ‘roof shorthand’ to replicate the features of the building at full size, so that accurate and detailed material lists and labour summaries may be produced quickly and efficiently.
It is then a matter of printing the necessary reports using the templates that you have defined. Example report templates are provided so that you can make a start immediately.
The usual starting point for a roof using this system is a basic hip and valley roof where the pitch is the same with an eave height the same all the way around. From this just about any roof may be created by adding all the architectural features including dormers, atriums, gables, verandahs etc.
🧾 Area Items vs Linear Items
Item Type | Description | Quantification Method |
Linear Items | Materials supplied and installed by length (gutters, ridge capping, fascia, etc.) | Quantified per linear metre (or per foot) |
Area Items | Materials that cover surface areas (roofing sheets, underlayment, insulation, etc.) | Quantified by square metres (or square feet) |
🔧
How Accessories are Quantified
Associated accessories are quantified based on their relationship to the main material item:
Per metre/foot: Items needed continuously along the length
Per length: Items needed once per full length of material
Per piece: Items needed for each individual piece
Per end: Items needed at each termination point
🛠 Material Setup and Definition
It is essential that all building components are correctly defined at the setup stage, taking account of:
How they are fabricated and supplied
How they are installed on site
The associated costs for fabrication and installation
Once materials are properly defined, they can be reused across multiple projects for consistent estimating.
🔧 Calculation Process
The area and length calculation process follows this sequence:
Create roof geometry: Draw the roof structure to establish areas and perimeters
Select roof cover material: Choose from your predefined material library
Automatic quantification: The program automatically calculates required quantities based on the geometry
Include accessories: All fixtures, fittings, fasteners, and accessories are automatically accounted for
Select flashings: Choose appropriate flashing types for the project
Generate material list: Complete material list is produced including all components
💡 Estimation Methods
The method of estimating materials depends on the material type selected. Regardless of the method used, the process produces a complete material list including:
Primary roofing materials
All fasteners and fixings
Required accessories
Underlayment and membranes
Flashings and trims
🧾 Interface Navigation
The functional descriptions in Roof Wizard follow the order found on the Pulldown Menu, which contains all software commands. The Icon Menu provides shortcuts to the most commonly used functions from the Pulldown Menu.
Tip: To identify what function each icon performs, enable the Instructor feature via Help > Instructor for contextual help.
At the top of the screen, below the pulldown menus, there is the prompt area. All instructions and responses to commands are displayed here. If you are not sure what to do, look here first, it tells you what to do!
It reads from the bottom up.
💡 Training Resources
For comprehensive understanding of the modelling and estimation process, complete the first module of the AppliCad Academy. This training covers the complete process of modelling, checking, and estimating, and is essential for maximising your software investment.
After generating the material list, complete reporting is automatic, allowing you to modify quotations or client proposals before printing the necessary reports.