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The Best Construction Estimating Apps for Contractors in 2026: Ranked & Reviewed

We reviewed the top players in the industry—Joist, Jobber, and Houzz Pro—and compared them against the newcomer that is disrupting the industry: CostHammer.

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We believe in giving credit where it's due. These are the apps you’ve likely heard of. They are the "standard"—but are they still the best?

 

 

  • Jobber: A massive platform. Great if you run a 50-person company and need to track GPS locations of every truck. Often considered "overkill" (and overpriced) for the independent pro.​

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  • Houzz Pro: Slick and pretty, but designed more for interior designers and architects than for the guy measuring drywall on a dusty job site.​

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  • Joist: The former king of simple estimating. Known for decent invoices but recently criticized for pushing expensive financing options and locking features behind paywalls.​

We graded these apps on the three things that actually matter to a contractor: Speed, Simplicity, and Cost.

1. Speed (Can you quote in the driveway?)

  • Joist & Jobber: Both require significant setup. You often have to build your client list and material database in the office before you can even start a quote. By the time you get home to type it up, the customer has already cooled off.

  • CostHammer: Built for the "Walk and Quote" workflow. You walk the job, tap the item, enter the quantity, and the AI does the rest. Winner: CostHammer.

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2. Pricing & "Hidden" Costs

  • The Big Guys: Most competitors trap you in "Tiered Pricing." You sign up for the Basic plan, but if you want to add photos or get a signature, you have to upgrade to the "Pro" or "Elite" plan ($300+/month).

  • CostHammer: One simple model. You get everything. Unlimited estimates, unlimited invoices, AI assistance, and PDF generation from day one. No "upgrade" traps. Winner: CostHammer.

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3. The "Fake" AI vs. Real Help

  • The Industry: Many apps claim to be smart, but they are just calculators.

  • CostHammer: Uses an actual AI Assistant. You can literally type "12x12 bedroom remodel with luxury vinyl," and CostHammer will build the line items for you. It’s like having a project manager in your pocket. Winner: CostHammer.

Try CostHammer Free Today

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Final Thoughts 

After testing the market, the conclusion is clear. If you run a massive corporation with HR departments and fleet management needs, Jobber is a fine choice. If you just want to send a bill, InvoiceSimple is okay.

But if you are a General Contractor, Roofer, Handyman, or Remodeler who wants to:

  1. Win the job on the first visit.

  2. Stop doing paperwork at night.

  3. Look more professional than your competition.

Then CostHammer has no true competitor. It is the only app designed to replace your notepad, not your accountant.

Stop paying for features you don't use. Start hammering out costs instantly.

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