Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the questions we hear most often about Kubla Cubed, including licensing, features, support, system requirements and earthworks calculations.
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Everything you need to know before downloading Kubla Cubed.
General Questions
▼ What is cut and fill estimation software?
Cut and fill estimation software is used in earthworks projects to calculate the volume of material that needs to be excavated (cut) or added (fill) to create a proposed design. In construction and civil engineering, earthworks involve changing the levels and shape of the ground by moving soil, rock, or other materials to create features such as roads, building platforms, embankments, and drainage areas.
Kubla Cubed is an example of cut and fill estimation software that helps users create 3D models of existing and proposed terrain, then compare the two surfaces to calculate the required cut and fill volumes.
Using data such as survey points, CAD drawings, PDFs, point clouds, and LandXML files, Kubla Cubed allows engineers, contractors, and estimators to analyse earthworks requirements before construction begins. The software can help with planning material movement, estimating costs, reviewing design options, and producing clear reports for project stakeholders.
Kubla Cubed uses a TIN-based volumetric calculation engine, which analyses the complete terrain model rather than relying only on sampled points, helping users accurately estimate volumes on complex sites.
▼ Who is Kubla Cubed Professional designed for?
Kubla Cubed Professional is designed for professionals who need to create, analyse, and manage earthworks designs and calculations.
It is commonly used by civil engineers, earthworks estimators, quantity surveyors, contractors, landscape designers, mining professionals, and construction teams who need to calculate cut and fill volumes, create 3D site models, review designs, and produce accurate project information.
Professional is particularly suited to users working with complex projects, detailed survey data, CAD drawings, and larger earthworks calculations. It includes advanced features such as cross sections, detailed reporting, and additional import/export options to support professional workflows.
▼ What types of projects can Kubla Cubed be used for?
Kubla Cubed can be used for a wide range of earthworks, construction, and civil engineering projects where understanding ground levels and material movement is important.
Common projects include:
- Construction sites – calculate cut and fill volumes for building platforms, foundations, and site preparation.
- Roads and infrastructure – analyse earthworks requirements for highways, access roads, and transport projects.
- Residential and commercial developments – compare existing and proposed ground levels to optimise site layouts.
- Landscaping projects – model terrain changes, calculate material requirements, and review proposed designs.
- Drainage and water management – design and assess ponds, basins, lagoons, and other excavated features.
- Mining and quarrying – analyse excavation volumes and terrain changes.
- Renewable energy projects – support earthworks calculations for sites such as solar farms and other developments.
Kubla Cubed is used by engineers, contractors, estimators, surveyors, and designers to create 3D site models, evaluate design options, and accurately estimate earthworks volumes before and during construction.
▼ Can I use Kubla Cubed for commercial work?
Yes. Kubla Cubed is designed for professional and commercial use across a wide range of industries, including civil engineering, construction, earthworks, landscaping, mining, and site development.
Businesses use Kubla Cubed to create 3D site models, calculate cut and fill volumes, review design options, and prepare earthworks information for real-world projects. It can be used for tasks such as estimating material movements, assessing site feasibility, supporting tenders, and planning construction works.
For companies with multiple users, Kubla Cubed also offers multi-seat and enterprise licensing options to help teams use the software across their organisation.
If you are unsure whether Kubla Cubed is suitable for your project requirements, contact our team and we can advise on the best licence option and workflow.
▼ Is Kubla Cubed suitable for small-scale projects?
Kubla Cubed is used by earthworks estimators around the world, and we hope it will prove just as useful to your team. Many smaller excavation and earthmoving companies find it an excellent fit because it is competitively priced, easy to learn, and doesn’t require any prior CAD experience.
Despite its simplicity, Kubla Cubed includes all the tools you need to produce fast, accurate cut and fill estimates with confidence.
▼ Can I use Kubla Cubed with other software?
Yes. Kubla Cubed is designed to work alongside other commonly used design, surveying, and construction software.
You can import data from a range of formats including CAD drawings (DWG and DXF), PDFs, LandXML files, point data, and survey information. This allows you to create terrain models from existing project data and use Kubla Cubed alongside your existing design and estimating workflows.
Kubla Cubed can also export results such as reports, cross sections, drawings, and surface data to help you share information with other members of your project team.
Whether you are working with CAD software, surveying equipment, or other earthworks tools, Kubla Cubed can fit into your existing workflow without requiring you to replace your current systems.
▼ Is there a free version?
Yes – download Kubla Cubed Lite and calculate earthworks volumes free of charge.
To get familiar with the basics of the software, we recommend everyone download the free lite edition; it is feature restricted but doesn’t have any time limit. Many users find this free version perfectly able to complete small cut\fill calculation tasks.
Kubla Cubed Lite also functions as a file viewer, allowing you to open and review projects created with the Professional edition.
Licensing & Pricing
▼ What's the difference between Lite and Professional?
Kubla Cubed Lite is a free, no time limit edition that includes the essential tools for creating terrain models, designing simple platforms, and calculating accurate cut and fill volumes from PDF and CAD drawings. Kubla Cubed Professional includes everything in Lite, plus advanced design tools, cross sections, detailed reporting, additional import and export options, and features for more complex earthworks projects. Find more details on the Compare page.
Both editions use the same calculation engine and interface, making it easy to start with Lite and upgrade to Professional whenever your project requirements grow.
▼ How do I get a 14-day trial of Kubla Cubed Professional?
If you would like to try Kubla Cubed Professional before purchasing, contact us to arrange a free 14-day trial. This gives you the opportunity to explore the full Professional version and test it with your own projects.
To request a trial, complete the enquiry form on our website or contact our team directly. We recommend using your trial period to import your own data, test your typical workflow, and explore the features most relevant to your projects.
If you need help getting started, our team can also arrange a demonstration and provide guidance on using Kubla Cubed for your specific requirements.
▼ What are the license options?
Kubla Cubed Professional is available as an Annual Subscription, a Perpetual Licence, or an Enterprise Agreement for organisations with five or more users. The Annual Subscription provides ongoing access to the latest software updates and support, while the Perpetual Licence is a one-time purchase that never expires and includes one year of support. Enterprise Agreements offer flexible licensing, volume discounts, a single annual invoice, and optional bespoke training for larger teams. Find out more here.
▼ Can I transfer my licence to another computer?
Yes. If you’re moving your licence to a new computer, simply email support@kublasoftware.com with the following details of the computer you want to deactivate:
- Make
- Model
- Computer name
If your computer has been lost, stolen, or is no longer working and you can’t access these details, just send us whatever information you have and we’ll do our best to help.
Please note:
- A single-user licence can be installed on up to two computers for one named user.
- If you’re replacing a computer, please uninstall Kubla Cubed from the old device before activating it on the new one.
- Continuing to use the software on the old computer after transferring the licence may cause the licence to be temporarily blocked.
▼ Do licences expire?
It depends on the licence type you choose.
- Annual Subscription: Expires 12 months after activation and must be renewed to continue using the software. Subscriptions include the latest software updates and technical support throughout the subscription period.
- Perpetual Licence: Never expires, so you can continue using the version you purchased indefinitely. It includes one year of updates and support, with optional paid upgrades available for future releases.
- Annual Enterprise Licence: Designed for organisations requiring five or more seats. Like the annual subscription, it must be renewed each year and includes software updates, support, and simplified company-wide licence management.
If you’re unsure which licence is right for your organisation, we’re happy to help you choose the best option.
▼ What happens when licenses expire?
You will receive a 14-day renewal email reminder before the expiry of your annual license.
When your Kubla Cubed subscription or enterprise agreement expires, access to the subscription licence will end and you will need to buy a new subscription to continue using the software.
Renewing your subscription keeps you up to date with the latest Kubla Cubed releases, improvements, and technical support. If you choose not to renew, your existing project files will remain available, but you will need an active licence to continue using the software.
If you are unsure whether to renew or would like to discuss alternative licence options, please contact our team.
▼ Can I upgrade a perpetual license in the future?
Yes. Perpetual licence users can upgrade to a newer version of Kubla Cubed when a new release becomes available. For example Kubla Cubed 2021 to 2024.
A perpetual licence allows you to continue using the version you purchased indefinitely. Your licence includes one year of software updates and support, after which you can choose whether to upgrade to a newer release by purchasing an upgrade licence.
Upgrading is optional, allowing you to continue using your existing version if it continues to meet your requirements, or move to the latest version when you need new features, improvements, or additional support.
▼ Do you offer Enterprise licences?
Yes.
Enterprise Agreements are for 5 or more users and offer flexible licensing, volume discounts, a single annual invoice, and optional bespoke training for larger teams.
Email sales@kublasoftware.com for a quote.
▼ How many computers can I install it on?
Each license is for single user who can install on two devices.
▼ Can multiple people use the same license?
That depends. A single user license is for one user who can install on two devices.
If you have purchased a multi-user license or enterprise, then the license can be used accordingly.
▼ Do you offer discounts for multiple users?
Yes. The discount is automatically applied at check out. Go to the pricing page to check out multiple user discounts.
▼ Do you offer educational or student licences?
Yes. Contact sales@kublasoftware.com for more information.
Features
▼ What calculations can Kubla Cubed perform?
Kubla Cubed is designed for earthworks estimation and provides a comprehensive range of calculations and measurements.
You can calculate cut and fill volumes, measure lengths, areas and counts, create cross sections, organise projects into construction phases, and generate detailed reports and exports.
The software also supports the creation of existing and proposed terrain models from CAD, PDFs, survey data, LandXML and point files.
▼ Does it calculate cut and fill?
Yes. Calculating cut and fill volumes is one of Kubla Cubed’s core features.
The software compares existing and proposed surfaces using a TIN-based calculation engine to produce accurate cut and fill volumes, with results updating automatically as you modify your design.
▼ Can I create cross sections?
Yes. Kubla Cubed Professional allows you to create cross sections anywhere across your site. Cross sections provide a 2D slice through the existing and proposed surfaces, making it easy to inspect designs, validate results, and communicate earthworks information.
▼ Can it create site plans?
Yes. Kubla Cubed can create 3D site plans from imported CAD, PDF or other design data. You can build up existing and proposed ground surfaces, add site features and export the finished designs as CAD, images and LandXML, for use in your earthworks estimate and construction workflow.
▼ Does Kubla Cubed support layers?
Yes. Kubla Cubed supports multiple site plans and CAD layers, allowing you to overlay drawings and control their visibility as you work.
The software also uses construction phases to organise existing ground, proposed works and different stages of an earthworks project, helping you manage complex calculations efficiently.
Design & Modelling
▼ Can I create 3D site models?
Yes. Kubla Cubed enables you to create accurate 3D terrain models from CAD drawings, PDFs, survey data, LandXML files, point clouds, and other common data sources. You can visualise existing and proposed surfaces in 3D, making it easy to review designs, identify potential issues, and calculate earthworks volumes.
▼ Can I design platforms and building pads?
Yes. There is a Platform tool which allows you to create areas, for example building pads at a specified elevation.
▼ Can I design retaining walls?
Yes. Kubla Cubed can model retaining walls by using breaklines to define the change in ground level at the wall. This allows you to represent the different ground levels on either side of the retaining wall and include them in your cut and fill calculations.
You can find out more in this video.
▼ Can I model ponds and basins?
Yes. Kubla Cubed can model ponds and basins. You can create them using contour lines at different elevations, or use platform elements to build up the required shape. The software can then calculate the resulting cut and fill volumes.
For detention ponds and basins, you can define elevations from a fixed datum or depths from a base level, making it possible to model the proposed shape directly from a site plan.
Watch this video to find out more.
▼ Can I edit surfaces after they've been created?
Yes. All surfaces in Kubla Cubed are fully editable. You can modify contours, breaklines, spot levels, boundaries, slopes, and other design elements at any stage, with cut and fill calculations updating automatically to reflect your changes.
Import & Export
▼ What file formats are supported?
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▼ Can I import CAD drawings?
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▼ Can I use drone survey data for earthworks calculations?
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▼ Does Kubla Cubed support LandXML?
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▼ Can I export to CAD?
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▼ Can I export earthworks models to Google Earth?
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▼ Can I export cut and fill calculations to Excel?
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Accuracy & Calculations
▼ How accurate are the calculations?
Kubla Cubed uses a proprietary TIN (Triangulated Irregular Network) based cascading volumetric calculation engine called Kubla Kingdom Gen II. Unlike traditional grid or cross-section methods, TIN calculations use all available surface data rather than sampling at fixed intervals, helping to produce more accurate cut and fill volume calculations.
The calculation engine has been extensively validated by comparing results against geometric test models, Autodesk Civil 3D, and established manual methods such as grid and cross-section calculations. Every new software release is also automatically tested against a large library of previous projects to ensure consistent accuracy and performance.
While we can’t publish the full validation data because it includes confidential customer projects and proprietary technology, we have shared examples comparing Kubla Cubed with traditional manual methods. You can also export cross sections and gridded data from Kubla Cubed Professional to independently verify calculations using recognised engineering methods if required.
▼ What calculation methods are used?
Kubla Cubed uses a proprietary TIN (Triangulated Irregular Network) based cascading volumetric calculation engine, known as Kubla Kingdom Gen II, to calculate cut and fill volumes.
Unlike traditional grid or cross-section methods, which estimate volumes by sampling the terrain at regular intervals, TIN calculations use the complete surface model. This allows Kubla Cubed to calculate volumes using all available data, providing greater accuracy, particularly on complex or irregular sites.
Kubla Cubed can also generate cross sections and gridded data for reporting or validation purposes, allowing users to compare results with traditional engineering methods where required.
▼ Can I verify quantities?
You can export cross sections and gridded data from Kubla Cubed Professional to independently verify calculations using recognised engineering methods if required.
▼ Can Kubla Cubed calculate excavation volumes for different strata?
Yes, Kubla Cubed can be used to calculate excavation volumes for different depth bands or strata, although this is currently a manual workflow rather than a built-in feature.
The process involves modelling each strata layer as a separate ground surface in its own project, recording the excavation volume for each layer, and combining the results in a spreadsheet. To ensure accurate results, the strata surfaces must never intersect with each other or the original ground surface.
We have produced a step-by-step tutorial demonstrating this workflow, and we plan to improve it with an updated video in the future. Native support for multiple strata and depth bands is planned for a future version of Kubla Cubed Ultimate.
▼ Can the software calculate topsoil stripping separately?
Yes. Kubla Cubed can calculate topsoil stripping separately by using different depth bands. This allows you to define a topsoil depth and report the stripped topsoil volume separately from the main cut and fill volumes.
Watch this video for more info.
▼ Can the software calculate stockpiles?
Yes. Kubla Cubed can model stockpiles and calculate their volumes. You can define the existing ground and the stockpile as separate surfaces, allowing the software to calculate the stockpile volume and include it in your earthworks estimate.
Calculate stockpiles video.
▼ Can I apply different formation levels?
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Support & Training
▼ Do you provide technical support?
Yes. Kubla Cubed includes technical support to help you with installation, licensing, and using the software.
Our support team can assist with questions about importing data, creating surfaces, calculating cut and fill volumes, troubleshooting issues, and getting the best results from your projects.
Support is included with annual subscriptions and for one year with perpetual licences. If you have a question or need assistance, please contact our support team and we will be happy to help.
▼ Is training included?
Yes. All Kubla Cubed customers have access to our online tutorials, guides, and support resources to help them get started with the software.
We also offer demonstrations and support to help users understand the workflow and get the best results from their projects. If you need more detailed training for yourself or your team, please contact us to discuss your requirements.
▼ How long does it take to learn Kubla Cubed?
Volumetric analysis can be complex, but we’ve designed Kubla Cubed to be as user-friendly as possible.
While ease of use is subjective and varies from person to person, we believe our platform offers one of the most intuitive experiences available. However, it’s always best to see if it fits your workflow by trying it out yourself.
▼ Are there video tutorials?
Yes. We provide a range of video tutorials to help you learn Kubla Cubed and get the most from the software.
Our tutorials cover common workflows including importing data, creating surfaces, calculating cut and fill volumes, designing earthworks, and exporting results. They are designed to help both new and experienced users understand the software features and apply them to real-world projects.
New videos and guides are added regularly to cover new features, workflows, and tips from our team.
▼ Is there user documentation?
Yes. Kubla Cubed includes a range of user documentation and learning resources to help you get started and make the most of the software.
Our online guides cover key topics including importing data, creating surfaces, calculating cut and fill volumes, designing earthworks, and exporting results. We also provide tutorial videos and example workflows to help you understand common tasks and best practices.
If you need further assistance, our support team is available to answer questions and help you get the most from Kubla Cubed.
▼ Can you help with my project?
Yes. The Kubla Support Team can help you work through questions or problems with your project and advise on how to use Kubla Cubed effectively. You can send us your project files and explain what you are trying to achieve, and we can help you work through the issue.
Technical Requirements
▼ What are the system requirements?
The hardware you need depends on the size and complexity of your projects. Most users will find that a modern business laptop or desktop runs Kubla Cubed comfortably. However, larger projects with complex CAD drawings or more than 100,000 survey points will benefit from a more powerful computer.
Minimum requirements
- Processor: Dual-core Intel or AMD processor @ 2.5 GHz
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics: DirectX 9 or Higher Compatible Card (standard for most PCs manufactured after 2010)
- Operating System: Windows 7, 10, or 11 (32-bit or 64-bit)
- Hardware: Mouse with a middle button and scroll wheel
Recommended for the best performance
- Processor: Intel Core i5 / i7 / i9, AMD Ryzen 5 / 7 / 9 or Intel Ultra-class CPU (6+ Cores) @ 3.0 GHz (Base) / 4.0 GHz+ (Boost)
- Memory: 32 GB RAM or more
- Graphics: DirectX 11 or Higher Compatible Card with at least 4 GB of Video RAM
- Operating System: Windows 11 (64-bit)
- Display: Full HD (1920 × 1080) resolution or higher
- Hardware: Mouse with a middle button and scroll wheel. Dual-monitor setup recommended for improved productivity
High-Performance (Large Projects / Point Clouds)
- Processor: High-end Intel Core i7/ i9, AMD Ryzen 7 / 9,
Intel Ultra 7 / 9 (8+ Cores) @ 4.0 GHz (Base) /
5.0 GHz+ (Boost) - Memory: 64 GB RAM
- Graphics: High-performance DirectX 12 Compatible GPU with 8 GB+ of Video RAM
- Operating System: Windows 11 (64-bit)
- Display: Full HD (1920 × 1080) resolution or higher
- Hardware: Mouse with a middle button and scroll wheel. Dual or Ultra-Wide monitors (QHD or 4K recommended)
▼ Does Kubla Cubed work on Mac?
Kubla Cubed is currently available for Microsoft Windows only. Some customers successfully run it on Apple Mac computers using Windows virtualisation software such as Parallels Desktop, although this configuration is not officially supported.
▼ What graphics card do I need?
Kubla Cubed does not require a high-end workstation graphics card. Most modern integrated or dedicated graphics cards are suitable for typical earthworks projects.
For the best performance, we recommend a DirectX 12 compatible graphics card with at least 1 GB of video memory. If you regularly work with large CAD files, detailed terrain models, or projects containing more than 100,000 survey points, a more powerful graphics card can help improve 3D navigation and overall responsiveness.
If you’re unsure whether your computer is suitable, feel free to contact our support team with your system specifications and we’ll be happy to advise.
▼ How much RAM is recommended?
Kubla Cubed will run with a minimum of 4 GB of RAM, which is suitable for smaller and less complex projects.
For the best performance, we recommend 16 GB of RAM or more. Additional memory is particularly useful when working with large CAD files, detailed terrain models, or projects containing a large number of survey points.
For most users, a modern computer with 16 GB RAM provides a good balance of performance and value, while users working on very large or complex earthworks projects may benefit from additional memory.
▼ Can I install on multiple computers?
Yes. A single-user licence allows Kubla Cubed to be installed on up to two computers for the same user.
For example, you can install the software on both your office desktop and your laptop, allowing you to work from different locations. The licence is assigned to one user and should not be shared between multiple people.
If you need licences for multiple users within your organisation, please contact us about our multi-seat and enterprise licence options.
▼ Can I use the software offline?
Yes. Kubla Cubed is desktop software and can be used offline once it has been installed and activated.
An internet connection is required for downloading the software, activating your licence, and accessing online features such as updates and support resources. After activation, you can work on your projects without an internet connection.
If you regularly work in areas with limited connectivity, Kubla Cubed is designed to allow you to continue creating and editing earthworks models without needing to be online.
Still have a question?
Our team is happy to help. Whether you have a technical question, need advice on licensing, or want to see Kubla Cubed in action, we’re only a message away.