The newest Bolster update adds smarter labor rates, clearer item selection, automated fees, change history, improved estimate insights, plus enhancements to library items, catalogs, and the takeoff tool.
Bolster Updates
The update kicks off with the new Estimate Insights panel. This collapsible section at the bottom of the Estimate Page provides:
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A visual breakdown of construction stages (with duration and value).
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Order of operations to confirm project flow.
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A price breakdown showing discounts, taxes, subcontractors, labor, materials, and profit (clearly highlighted in green).
This gives you a quick, reliable way to validate estimates before sending them.
Auto Cost Labor Rates
Bolster now applies default labor rates automatically to new items. This removes repetitive manual entry and keeps rates consistent across all projects.
Item Type Selection
The improved Item Type Selection makes it simple to classify items properly. With standardized dropdown options, you can keep estimates organized and reporting accurate.
Fee Item Calculation
The Fee Item Calculation feature automates how fees are applied to estimates, ensuring transparency and reducing manual adjustments.
Change History Feature
Every update to an estimate is now logged with the new Change History feature, providing accountability and a clear audit trail of changes over time.
Additional Enhancements
Library Item Status Changes
A new visual indicator now shows which items and assemblies are saved to your library:
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Blue button = saved to library.
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Grey button = not saved.
This makes it much easier to distinguish between stored items and temporary ones at a glance.
Item Catalog Enhancements
Navigation and item creation have been simplified with sidebar updates:
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A new Create button provides quick access to create estimates, leads, and more.
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Catalog organization improvements make it easier to manage and locate saved items.
These changes improve usability, giving you faster access to key tools without extra clicks.
Takeoff Tool
We’re also excited to highlight the Takeoff Tool, which simplifies measuring and linking dimensions from plans and imagery directly into assemblies and quotes. This makes estimates faster, more accurate, and more efficient.
For a full walkthrough of its features, including a custom home assembly example, check out our takeoff introduction page or the video below.
Why These Updates Matter
With these combined enhancements, Bolster helps you:
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Work faster through automation and shortcuts.
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Stay accurate with structured inputs and visual checks.
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Maintain transparency with clear breakdowns and history logs.
What’s Next
We’ll continue building tools that improve speed, clarity, and collaboration in Bolster. Stay tuned for more updates designed to save you time and boost confidence in every estimate.