LeeDrafter
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Hello, I am trying to decide if I want to start using the materials lists in CA for takeoffs and estimating or if it would be more efficient to buy another software. I have been working for a home builder and drafting/designing in CA for a 10 years now, but I never took the time build the framing or other components exactly accurately. I just needed plans. I didn't need details stud layouts or anything like that which would be required to generate an accurate materials list. Now my role has changed a bit, and I am now the estimator as I train a new drafter. I have been shopping for a takeoffs/estimating software. Although it seems logical to use CA since we already use it for design, it seems pretty complicated with a lot of steps required for accuracy. From reading this thread, it sounds like most people don't really rely on it for accurate takeoffs. Do I want to do the work to make all the floor plans super accurate, or is it better to use a different takeoff software that is a bit simpler even though I would have to input the plan data? Does anybody out there work for a builder and need accurate takeoffs in order to buy materials? Do you use CA materials lists? Or, what other software do you like? I would appreciate any advice! Thank you!!
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Thanks! I will make an account!
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Hi Eric, thank you. I don't have an account with 3D Warehouse and can't view the link without one. Before I make an account, I'm wondering if this is a texture that can be downloaded and imported into Chief? Thanks!
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Hello, I would like to use a metal siding similar to this picture, and I can't find a similar material in CA. The closest I see is vertical paneling. I can adjust the angle so it's horizontal and change the scale for wider boards, but I don't know how to get rid of the wood grain look and change it to a metal texture. Any advice on a material texture that would work well? Also, does anybody know what this type of large scale horizontal metal siding is called? Perhaps there is more information on Chief Talk already, but I didn't know what to search for since I don't know the technical name for this material. Thanks so much! Lee X12
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thanks so much! You listed many things I have never done before, so this is a good learning experience. There is so much to know! thanks
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thank you so much for sharing this method along with the grass file!! This is so helpful! I have been wanting to create the look of real grass for years, but I haven't been able to achieve the look I want even with high-res grass and bump maps. But this works! I think other people use photoshop or other software, but I don't have experience in those. thanks again.
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Thanks, here is a plan along with the ray trace I have done. I'm pretty happy with it except for the window glass and the grass. I put window treatments in to hide the interior while still allowing some transparency. AERIE.zip
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Thanks, I will play with that too. Some of these words are new to me and confusing, haha. It takes a lot of trial and error.
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The picture I posted was not done in Chief (also not done by me). I am trying to use chief to get close to that kind of look.
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Thank you, I wish there was a reflectivity setting I could adjust. I will mess around with the grey shades a bit more.
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Hello, I am working on an exterior ray trace, and I would like the windows to be slightly reflective instead of transparent. What is the right material and properties for this look? I tried to make the glass a mirror, but it turned out really dark in my ray trace. I attached a picture (not mine) that shows the look I am going for. I am using Chief X12. thank you!
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Thanks All, these are some great methods for me to explore.
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Thanks, that is easy enough to create the room polyline. But I don't know how to create the macro to display the area. I'll have to research that.
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thanks, that would be better for accuracy, but it seems like it would take quite a bit of time to do that for 15+ rooms in every plan I have :). I'll ask the flooring people how accurate they need.
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ok, that's easy. I'm embarrassed I asked. I didn't see the interior area option and just went with standard area. thank you.