Skip to main content

Using Point-to-Point vs. Box Tool for Area Measurements

M
Written by Marc Dellosa
Updated over 2 months ago

Watch time: 2 minutes

Builderbid’s Area Measurement Tool provides two ways to measure flooring, carpet, tile, and other surface areas: Point-to-Point and Box Tool.
Both modes are controlled using the Shift key, allowing you to switch between drawing freeform shapes or quick rectangles.

Watch this video to learn more(2 minutes):


Steps

1. Start an Area Measurement

  • Begin by launching an area measurement (e.g., for carpet or flooring).

  • Your crosshair determines the area measurement mode you’re currently in.

2. Use the Shift Key to Switch Modes

  • Press the Shift key at any time between measurements to toggle between the two modes:

  • Point-to-Point Mode

    • Lets you click multiple points to outline any shape

    • Ideal for irregular rooms or custom layouts

    • Click Backspace to undo the last point

  • Box Mode

    • Draws a simple rectangle

    • Click one corner, then the opposite diagonal corner

    • Must form a 90-degree rectangular shape

    • Helpful for quick measurements of simple rooms

3. Switch Modes Between Shapes

  • You can change modes only after completing a measurement shape.

  • Once a shape is closed (before starting the next), press Shift to toggle to the other mode.

4. Turn Snap-to-Angle On or Off (During a Measurement)

  • When drawing in Point-to-Point mode, the tool automatically snaps angles to 90° to help you draw straight lines.

  • If snapping is interfering—such as when you need to place a point that doesn’t align—press Shift again to temporarily disable snapping.

    • Shift ON: Snaps lines to 90°

    • Shift OFF: Allows free placement of points

  • You can toggle this at any time during a measurement.

Did this answer your question?