DianneDSC

I use the template method. When I make adjustments to my plan and / or layout template I do not do a "save as". I just save it. No need to create an additional copy with a new name.

Thanks Gene. I'll post to the suggestion forum as I'm sure this will be very helpful for others. I love that when I insert a door in the corner of a room there is a set minimum dimension that is used...just needs to be separate setting from the casing size.

Is there a way to control the minimum distance from the edge of a door to a wall corner other than enlarging the casing? I'd like to have 6 1/2" frame to door jamb but have 3 1/4" casing without having to manually adjust the location with dimensions. I can do this by enlarging the casing to 5 3/4" but do not want such large casing - just want more space. Thanks.

I use capsulecrm online program. Integrates with Google apps email and also my accounting program Xero. I also use minutedock for time tracking and some invoicing. This also integrates with Xero and is an online program.

Select the demo wall, open the dbx, set wall as non-room defining.

I was checking out this last week and I think that if you use the diamond to drag the next section of wall it goes from the outside main layer but if you start a new wall at the end of first wall by clicking then the new wall starts from the center of the first. Not at my computer to verify.

I understand as I use to do what you described in Autocad with a dimstyle without arrows or lines. Perhaps can do same thing. I'll check in this tomorrow and see what options are available. If the footprint lines could be labeled automatically like lot perimeter lines but without angles that would work too.

http://www.bluebeam.com/us/products/free-viewer/ I use the paid version but the free version has lots of features.

lol...

I just figured out how to copy using this!! In the dialog box you must select copy, add the number of copies you want. AND select move and enter the distance and angle. No dragging needed.Thanks Joe for another option.

I have some issues when the angle listed will not be exactly right but usually it is. If not I just type in the angle I want the copy to go when typing in the distance. This is the only inconsistency I have found, and not sure if it's my user error or something else.

When I started using Chief I missed the "wall offset copy" command of Autocad Architecture. In Chief when I want a wall a certain distance from another, like for a closet or hall, I do the following: select the wall parallel to the one you want to add, select copy object and start to drag the wall in the direction where you want the new wall. Hit "tab" and type in the distance needed. I recommend sticking with Chief and learn the new methods. Totally worth it.

I don't understand the builder's logic. If you are using the same software how can his team redrawing the plan offer benefits that you cannot?

I have started using CA recently and love it. Previously I was using Autocad Architecture with the add-on VisionRez (both 3d programs) and have to go back to it for some projects that are close but not finished. The transition has actually be easier than I thought, so far at least. However, today is an example of working on 2 projects....one in CA and one in VisionRez ....and the method of drawing walls, short-cut keys, different ways to access similar commands has my fingers a little confused. But CA is totally worth it to me. I plan to modify and add some short-cut keys in CA to match my habits. I can relate to the original poster's comment on the way escape works in CA. Many times I cancel out of my command in CA, not intending to do so. I suggest reading the user's guide and the reference manual, as well as exploring the menus, toolbars, and right-click menus in CA. As I think of other things that may help others transitioning I will post, as well as follow this thread for information that may help me.