FastPIPE Review - why 4.7 stars?

Shlomi Lavi / updated: Apr 14, 2022

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What is FastPIPE?

FastPIPE is a cloud-based construction software designed for commercial and industrial contractors who need a fast and accurate tool to estimate material and labor construction costs. The software comes with features such as:

• Customizable Specs: FastPIPE allows contractors to create unique specifications and takeoff screens for each operation. They may also develop their library of specifications and takeoffs, removing the need to start from zero. After contractors have transferred the global spec into their task, they may use the Spec Editor to make any small modifications.
• Auto Connect Pipe: The on-screen digitizer speeds up takeoff even further with the patented Auto Connect function. When contractors remove a pipe fitting, the software scan the physical plan to see whether there is a link between that fitting and another (and validate that the connection makes sense for the type and size).
• Built-In Assemblies: FastPIPE comes with hundreds of "built-in" HVAC and plumbing components ready to use in a takeoff. The software has gas connection assemblies, boilers, chillers, coils, pumps, VRF systems, etc.
• Job Templates: Contractors can utilize current jobs as templates for new jobs in FastPIPE. For example, if they have previously worked at a local school, they can simply re-use that job for future projects.
• Easy-to-Read Reports: With a single click, FastPIPE estimates linear feet, diameter inches, weight, surface area, volume, material prices, and labor hours in seconds. Material modifications and work factors can be immediately added to the report. Reports can be segmented by sections, specifications, regions, zones, cost codes, item tags, etc.

FastPIPE by FastEST, Inc is construction software that started in 1993. The company is headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, United States. The company has a workforce about 10 employees.

Who is it best for?

FastPIPE is equipped to meet the needs of any business size. However, it is most suitable for construction projects whose budget does not exceed $100 million. The software is mainly deployed in the infrastructure industry but is not exclusive to it.

The intended users of the software include custom home builders, engineering firms, general contractors, specialty contractors, and construction management firms. The clients of FastPIPE come from all these diverse industries and businesses.

Among the noteworthy clients of FastPIPE, we can include ACCO Engineered Systems, Dennison Plumbing & Heating, Inc., and O.C McDonald Co., Inc.

Main features and functionalities

FastPIPE follows web based deployment and modular architecture which significantly enhances the overall flexibility of the system. However, the software offers very limited and specialized features. It features only two modules of estimation and integration.

In the estimation module of the software, you can benefit from the features of bid comparison, cost database, digitizer integration, item list, and take off. The software can be integrated with Microsoft Excel so if you are using Excel for repot creation and management you can seamlessly integrate with the new system of FastPIPE. The Large Master Catalogue (LMC) offered by FastPIPE is the largest in the industry and offers over 150,000 items. It includes data about piping, fittings, valves and other components from all the major manufacturers in the industry. Additionally, the software also offers customizable specs and takeoff screens.

You can also take advantage of the build-in HVAC and plumbing assemblies to be used in takeoff. Finally, existing jobs can be used as templates for the new jobs.

What is the actual cost?

FastPIPE offers two license pricing options; Purchase and Lease. The Purchase option starts at $4995.00 as a one-time payment, while the Lease option starts at $225 per month. The Purchase option comes with features such as the First year of maintenance, Online Training & Support, Installation Assistance, Material Pricing Updates, a 60-day money-back guarantee, etc. Lease comes with everything in Purchase plus non-binding.

ITQlick pricing score is 6.2 out of 10 (10 is most expensive). Access ITQlick pricing guide for FastPIPE. You can also find here pricing information from FastPIPE's website.

Pros

• The software offers a master catalogue listing over 150,000 items used in construction projects from every major manufacturer in the industry
• FastPipe is a user-friendly estimating program
• You don’t have to work from scratch for the HVAC and plumbing assemblies since the software has them built-in
• The software reduces the time and cost of printing by allowing you to perform takeoffs directly from the pre-existing digital plans
• Web based deployment of the software makes it possible to be used anywhere in the world as long as the internet is available
• Large Master Catalog of the software offers over 250,000 items which cover just about every item you need for your project
• Users can change almost everything and can customize the system to their needs
• The software offers optimal on-screen takeoff and ease of creating nested assemblies
• Web based deployment of the software allows you to use it anywhere in the world as long as the internet is available.
• The software provides integration with Microsoft Excel which is one of the most popular applications for report creation.

Cons

• Users suggest that it would be nice to customize the job list (bidding) screen.
• The software has exclusive support for English language which limits its user base
• The software does not offer the modules of project management, accounting and service management
• FastPIPE can only be integrated with Microsoft Excel and not with other popular applications such as Microsoft Access, World and QuickBooks
• The estimating module of the software does not offer the features for conceptual estimates and proposal generator

How it stacks up?

Access a head to head analysis of FastPIPE vs alternative software solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is FastPIPE right for you or your business?

FastPIPE is a mechanical and plumbing estimating program designed for commercial, industrial, residential plumbing, HVAC, and industrial contractors. For mechanical contractors that conduct fabrication and/or HVAC installation, FastPIPE piping estimating software includes on-screen takeoff of pipe, fittings, valves, and assemblies.