Software for modelling timber framing

[AJB Temple]

I am intending to construct two twin bay garages, either out of blockwork or timber framing, and am seeking advice on software that will enable me to produce scale drawings from which I can produce materials and cutting lists. Obviously I could hand draw this, but as this is the first of three projects I am wondering if software will be more flexible and perhaps better.

I don't mind paying for the software (though free is also good!) but don't want to go overboard on technical complexity and wish to avoid a long software learning curve if possible. Any suggestions from people who have actually used or currently use such software would be gratefully received.

Thanks, AJ

 

[JR147]

Try SketchUp, it's free but very good. It's quick to pick up but you can do a lot with it.

There's a paid version with a layout programme and I think you start off with a 30 day free trial of the pro version anyway.

 

[AJB Temple]

Thanks. I have downloaded Sketch up and am working my way through the tutorials. It unfortunately requires a scroll wheel mouse: and I use Mac with a trackpad, so a mouse is on its way via Amazon. The pro version, after the 30 day trail, is around £450 so a not inconsiderable sum, but I ma not sure yet whether I will need that functionality. My idea is to use it for accurate scale drawings from which I can take cutting list dimensions for timber framing.

 

[JR147]

The free version, SketchUp Make, should be able to do all that. The measurement tool is really useful for getting dimensions.

Some of the best tutorials I have watched are the many videos from Jay Bates on YouTube, well worth checking out.

 

[hrk]

Yes the Jay Bates youtube vidoes on Sketchup are really helpful. I learn something new every time I watch one.

The only feature I miss having from the pro trial is the ability to import vectors from Illustrator. It's not worth £450 though!

 

[Brentingby]

You should look at the Timber Framing Extensions for SketchUp. They are available from the Extension Warehouse.

Some other good tutorials here.

 

[xy mosian]

Hi, There are many sites offering Sketchup tutorials. I seldom find it necessary to look anywhere other than here:-

http://www.finewoodworking.com/blog/design-click-build.

The 'worked through' examples offer all I need to know, just when I need it.

xy