CharlesVolz

I backup layout and plan files together on Dropbox by using Chief Architect's method in their Help File (see attached). I use a file folder for each client and subfolders for each backup. I just number the backup folders 1, 2, 3 ... etc., like Smith 1, Smith 2, ... That way my plan and layout file names never change and remain in the same folder (no re-linking). If I have to go back to a previous plan for any reason, I can use the folders dates or numbers. As I progress with a plan, I might delete every other older backup folder from time to time to save space. This has saved me more than once. Usually because I hit the undo too many times and deleted something that I was not aware of until later. But, I have had clients change something then ask me to change it back. If I can isolate those items or that area and copy/paste in place, I am way ahead. Backing up plan & layout files X9.pdf Note: Always backup the layout (not plan) file. That will ensure that all files (including the plan file) is backed up in the same folder. CA acts like the plan file is associated with the layout file but not visa versa.

I am a creative designer with unique experience and perspective from my collection of work as a designer and builder. I have degrees in structural engineering and architectural engineering and have planned, designed and developed various types of projects over my 30-year career. I use Chief Architect X9 (SSA member) and have used Chief Architect since Version 9. I use GoToMeeting and am technologically versed in all types of software that help me in my design business including, for example, creating flash and 3D pdf files. I would be happy to review your plan with you online to see how we could work together. Just give me a call. Thank you in advance for the opportunity to discuss our working together. Regards, Charles Volz Castlerock Designer Homes CastlerockDesignerHomes.com CVRE@sbcglobal.net 210 744-7489

Call David Potter. He helped me years ago. Here is is contact info: Tel.512-518-3161 E Mail:davidjpotter@twc.com

Hey Scott, Go to Floor 2, open a dimension with arrows and you will see that it is using the plot plan dimension defaults. As Glenn said, they are no longer automatic dimensions.

Also, zoom in to make the dimension line longer on your screen to get more control on snapping to items and direction/angle of dimension line.

I have been adding a note to my plot plans similar to this: PLOT PLAN: This is not a plat or survey but was drawn from information deemed reliable and is offered soley as a visual aid and without warranty of any kind as to its accuracy. Charles Volz DBA Castlerock Designer Homes advises builder to a) secure a current perimeter, tree and topographical survey made by a Registered Professional Land Surveyor, to verify the location and/or availability of utilities, easements, perimeter boundaries and flood plain boundaries, and c) to have a Registered Professional Land Surveyor locate (and stake) all property lines, building setback lines and the proposed improvements on the site prior to any construction. All information furnished is from sources deemed reliable but is submitted subject to errors and omissions.

Check an old post regarding SEIKI 4K TV's used for monitors. I have and 39" and a 42" that work great and are inexpensive. They make bad TV's (in 2015) because of the refresh rate which does not affect their use as monitors. I bought the 39" for under $400, then wished I would have bought an even larger one. (I came from a 27" monitor.) The 42" is better for me than the 39". I cannot go any larger because it sits on my desk and a larger monitor would make my neck hurt because of the viewing angle. I moved all of the icons to the bottom which helped a lot.

Try this: 1. Open a schedule dbx. 2. Put the column you want to sort by in the second column after the "Number" column by arranging them in the "Columns to Include:" dbx. 3. Uncheck the box "Include Objects from All Floors" and select a floor that has no items in the schedule (like Foundation or Attic) in the "Include Objects from Floor" selector. 4. Press "OK" to close the Schedule dbx. 5. Open the Schedule dbx. 6. Check the box "Include Objects from All Floors". 7. Press "OK" and close the Schedule dbx. CA with alphabetize the first column that is not the "Number" column. The schedule should sort. This routine is pretty quick when you re-sort all your schedules at the end of a job because you are only doing steps 3-7 to re-sort.

I think walls marked "No Room Definition" should show in elevations. Invisible walls can be used when you want them.

I have this discussion with builders and owners from time to time. Of course, they always take the position that saves them money. I designed a builder's personal home on for a $/SF design fee and he would not let me count both levels of the stairwell. But he was happy when I designed many of his clients' homes to let me include both levels of the stairwell because his builder's fee was a $/SF fee. I use ANSI Z765 and say so in my contract. I have attached it for easy access along with a summary I put together for my use. ANSI Z765-2003 Summary.pdf ANSI Z765-2013.pdf

You are welcome. You may be the first OP I ever helped! (Even though I did piggyback on Perry!)

To leave the deck and get Perry's fix, create a separate room outside of the left columns in your screen shot and unchecked the dbx @ Structure/Ceiling “Roof Over This Room” and “Ceiling Over This Room” for that new room.

I wish! One man show. . . lots of coffee.

Hey Perry. I didn't get it at first either. That's why I got tickled when it hit me.

blue print! Come on Perry!

Thanks Michael!

Howdy Paul and Debbi Dziedzic, I would like the opportunity to talk to you about Chief Architect design work. I am a creative designer with unique experience and perspective from my collection of work as a designer and builder. I have degrees in structural engineering and architectural engineering and have planned, designed and developed various types of projects over my 30-year career. I use Chief Architect X9 (SSA member) and have used Chief Architect since Version 9. I use GoToMeeting and am technologically versed in all types of software that help me in my design business including, for example, creating flash and 3D pdf files. I would be happy to review your plan with you online to see how we could work together. No charge. Thank you in advance for the opportunity to discuss our working together. Regards, Charles Volz CVRE@sbcglobal.net 210 744-7489

Yes.

I would like the opportunity to talk to you about Chief Architect design work. I am a creative designer with unique experience and perspective from my collection of work as a designer and builder. I have degrees in structural engineering and architectural engineering and have planned, designed and developed various types of projects over my 30-year career. I use Chief Architect X8 (SSA member) and have used Chief Architect since Version 9. I use GoToMeeting and am technologically versed in all types of software that help me in my design business including, for example, creating flash and 3D pdf files. I would be happy to review your plan with you online to see how we could work together. No charge. Thank you in advance for the opportunity to discuss our working together. Regards, Charles Volz

I can help you. I am a creative designer with unique experience and perspective from my collection of work as a designer and builder. I have degrees in structural engineering and architectural engineering and have planned, designed and developed various types of projects over my 30-year career. I use Chief Architect X8 (SSA member) and have used Chief Architect since Version 9. I use GoToMeeting and am technologically versed in all types of software that help me in my design business including, for example, creating flash and 3D pdf files. I would be happy to review your plan with you online to see how we could work together. No charge. Thank you in advance for the opportunity to discuss our working together. Regards, Charles

Highlight object. Then choose: Then choose in dropdown

I suggest you post the plan.

Joe, Are you referring to the CAD Detail Window in Layout? If, so how would the stated scale reflect the actual scale?