Joist
Estimates, invoices and payment collection built for contractors.
| Best for | Solo contractors and small crews who mainly need to quote and get paid. |
|---|---|
| Pricing | Free tier; paid plans add advanced features |
| Free option | Free tier |
| Used for | Quoting & estimating, Invoicing & payments |
| Suits | Plumbers, Electricians, HVAC, Remodelers & carpenters |
| Website | joist.com |
What it does
Joist is designed for the moment you are standing in front of a customer and need to put a number on the job. You build the estimate on a phone, send it for approval, and convert it into an invoice once the work is done. The AI element is thin — the real value is speed from quote to payment without going back to the office.
Where the AI actually is
Limited AI assistance — the core value is fast quoting and invoicing, not AI.
Pros
- Genuinely usable free tier
- Built around the trade workflow, not generic small business
- Clients can approve quotes and pay from their phone
Cons
- Less useful once you need crew scheduling and dispatch
Who it suits
Built with Plumbers, Electricians, HVAC, Remodelers & carpenters in mind. Solo contractors and small crews who mainly need to quote and get paid.
Alternatives
Togal.AI
AI takeoff that measures drawings automatically.
Knowify
Job costing and project management for trade contractors.
Contractor Foreman
All-in-one construction management at a lower price point.
Jobber
Field service management for small home service teams.
Prices shown are indicative as of September 2026 and change often. Always confirm on the vendor's own site.