Installing SU8 pro trial over SU8 Free version

[JuddK]

**First I’d like to say what a wonderful website this is.

I’m new to Sketchup and have found many answers to my questions and much more. Information is top notch. I would not have gotten as far as I have using Sketchup with out this site.

Now for my first question
I want to check out Sketchup 8 Pro, I know I can download a trail version that is good for about 8 hours I think.
I have Sketchup 8 Free installed now.

Will the Pro overwrite my free version? I have many plugins and materials and such installed I don’t want to lose them.

If I make a copy of the Plugins folder can I copy it to the Pro version if I decide to upgrade and if I don’t upgrade will I have to download the free version again.

I'm interested in Layout in the Pro version, I’ve been playing around Double Cad using it for a “layout” paper space but want to try Sketchup 8 Pro to what I’m missing

I’m retired from the construction business, was involved mainly in engineered wood products ( Plated trusses, LVL, I-Joist) .. Used AutoCad many years and lots of manufactures programs ( TrussJoist, Boise Cascade, MiTek… ect)

Still help out some builder friends time to time and have really enjoyed working in SU
Thanks Judd**

[TIG]

Welcome 'lurker'

Installing Pro8 should retain any of your Free8 personalized additions to Plugins etc.
However, if you were to go 'cross-version' then v7 stuff stays in the '7' path and you'd need to copy personal stuff over from any v7 folders into the equivalent v8 folders...
Once you have finished your 8Pro trial you can choose to license it and what you had will be retained.
Alternatively, if you revert to 8Free you will need to 'uninstall' 8Pro: however, once again any customized files in that installation's folders should be kept and then re-recognized by the new Free8 installation that reuses the existing folders...