Framing - DIY Software

[heitjer]

Hello,
I am in need to draw up details on my pole barn constructing for the permit department. They require details on all materials and dimensions.

I found this software and like to see if you know if this is worth anything or if you have other software suggestions that perform this similar task.

LINK to GARAGE DESIGNER

*heitjer*

 

[Opti-Mist]

Looks like it will do the job. As long as it will detail individual framing members it should be good. Up here all they want is the truss drawing (snow load). Good price compared to stuff I've used in prior years.

 

[bobodu]

If you have a Menards near you,they have a machine that lets you plug in various detentions and it spits out a materials list. Might come in handy for you.

 

[heitjer]

Thanks for the replies - Menards sounds good but I am in Texas....

 

[Tig]

I use Punch, but not for framing advice. It does nice floor plans and some cool 3D stuff but at a glance I noticed problems with the framing view.

 

[heitjer]

All - I purchased the software and it took me about 1 minute to be completely disappointed. This is THE most inflexible software that I have seen in my life. It has only a limited selection of windows, door, garage doors of which none were the ones that I want. There was no way to do a free entry (i.e. 12 ft high garage door - the max height was 8 ft).

If you build a square, standard framing garage with doors not exceeding 8 ft than you may want to use this. It has some nice features where it calculates all necessary materials but its worthless if you can not model your garage.

Back to square one - does anyone have a good suggestion of software package for this?

 

[kf4uda]

You might want to give Google Sketchup a try. It is a 3d design software that you can draw about anything with. There is also a lot of pre-drawn stuff that you can download from the web from its library. The best part about it is that it is free. I am currently designing myself a 24x36 shed using it.

Just do a Google search for it.

 

[BungeeII]

All - I purchased the software and it took me about 1 minute to be completely disappointed.

Which software? It's been a couple years since I used Punch, but I could change anything I wanted in it.

 

[Kays Supply]

I am a 3D Home Architect ( 3dhaonline.com) fan. I didn't buy online. Staples or any place that sells software should have it. I have used it for years and bought several updates. I have finally got my contractors to use it ,so they can email plans to me and I can edit and send back my changes.

 

[Tig]

Punch is great for what it is. Floor plans, dimensions, 3D view.
What is will not do is give correct framing details. ie how to frame a window etc.
I thought heitjer was looking for framing details. Now that I re-read the OP I see I am mistaken on that. Check it out. It's worth a look.
Also of note is that Punch has many different versions. I have home design pro. It was the cheapest version that would do what I wanted. Looks like it's called Pro Platinum on the website now.
It also gives a material list and will do the math and give you a total if you input the unit price.