What are the best tools for roof measurements?

Intro

Roof measurements are crucial for making correct bids, estimating material costs and scheduling work. Errors in measurements quickly cause delays or losses. Fortunately, there are many advanced tools today to help you work more efficiently.

In this article, you'll discover the best tools for roof measurement, including their pros and cons, so you choose the right tool for your project.

LiDAR technology - accurate and scalable

LiDAR uses laser pulses to generate highly accurate 3D models of buildings. This data is incorporated into smart Web tools that allow you to measure a roof quickly and without a physical visit.

👉 Example: Spotable

Voordelen:
✅ Zeer nauwkeurig (afwijking vaak <5%)
✅ Geen fysieke verplaatsing nodig
✅ Schaalbaar voor grote projecten
✅ Automatisch gegenereerde rapporten

Cons:
❌ Not every area has current coverage
❌ Possible discrepancy with recent renovations
❌ Depending on quality of data source

Drones with photogrammetry and AI software

Drones deliver aerial images to software that converts the roof structure into a 3D model via photogrammetry.

Advantages:
✅ Visual inspection and measurement in one
✅ Ideal for large or complex roofs
✅ Access to hard-to-reach areas

Cons:
❌ Photogrammetry may be inaccurate
❌ Weather-dependent
❌ Permit required in Belgium
❌ Investment in drone + training

Laser distance meters & digital measuring wheels

For simple or smaller projects, digital measuring devices are still reliable and budget-friendly.

Advantages:
✅ Affordable and mobile
✅ Ideal for small roofing jobs
✅ No internet required

Disadvantages:
❌ You have to physically get up onto the roof
❌ Risk of measurement error for sloping or irregular shapes
❌ Not efficient for large areas

CAD software with aerial photographs

Use aerial photos from Google Maps or GRB in conjunction with AutoCAD or SketchUp to manually draw in roofs.

Advantages:
✅ Visual support for planning
✅ Useful for quotations
✅ No additional hardware required

Cons:
❌ Limited accuracy
❌ No elevation or slope information
❌ Time intensive without automation

Mobile apps with AR or camera measurement

With apps such as MagicPlan or RoofSnap, you measure roofs using your smartphone camera or augmented reality.

Advantages:
✅ Fast and approachable
✅ No additional hardware required
✅ Useful for quick estimates

Cons:
❌ Low accuracy
❌ Sensitive to light, angle and distance
❌ Not suitable for professional use

Tool	Accuracy	Accessibility	Cost	Suitable for
LiDAR (e.g., Spotable)	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	€€	Quotations, prospecting
Drones + AI	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐☆☆☆	€€€	Complex roofs
Laser rangefinder	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐⭐☆☆☆	€	Small projects
CAD + aerial photo	⭐⭐☆☆☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	€	Estimates
Mobile apps	⭐☆☆☆☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	€	Indicative use

Frequently Asked Questions?

Is a drone more accurate than LiDAR?
Not always. Drones use photogrammetry, which is prone to errors for shading or inclined surfaces. LiDAR is more reliable for structural measurements.

Can I perform my own roof measurement with a drone?
In Belgium, you must be a licensed drone pilot for professional use. For recreational use, there are strict restrictions.

Is LiDAR available throughout Belgium?
It is in Flanders: through the Digital Elevation Model. Tools such as Spotable use this open data.

Is Spotable free?
Your can Spotable for free try. After that work you with a annual subscription, at custom from your company.

Can me Spotable use in all of Belgium?
Yes, we cover all of Belgium with official LIDAR-data.

Is Spotable more accurate than Geopoint?
Yes. We use the same basic data (LIDAR, GRB, etc.) but process them automatically and interpret them specifically for roofs and facades.