Killing AutoCAD Using SketchUp?
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Now I don't want to besmirch the fine software known as AutoCAD. It has underpinned much of the progress in architecture and construction these past forty years.
Typical example of the kind of subtle masterpieces that AutoCAD is renowned for. (Image: chrisglass.com)
For small drawings which incorporate lines, curves, dimensions and text there's no better solution out there. But if you want to draw anything bigger than a steel joint or a shed (Things which fit nicely into a single screen.) then it may be advisable to look for another solution.
Using SketchUp to produce Plans Sections and Elevations has the following advantages:
- Everything fits on a single screen.
- There's no such thing as incorrect or non-aligned drawings (unless there's obviously something wrong with your model.)
- Changes only have to be made once, not 4 - 8 times.
- Contains textures.
- Shadows.
- Video Output.
- Rapid editing.
- LayOut now has a 2D drawing "Scaled Drawings" built-in application.
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There are countless add-ons including:
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Quantity take-offs.
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Construction sequencing linked to Synchro.
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Energy Analysis Tools.
I almost forgot:
- SketchUp Pro is cheaper than AutoCAD.
For those unreasonable mavericks out there, my new book "Construction Documents Using SketchUp Pro 2020" is available on SketchUcation: https://sketchucation.com/shop/books/intermediate/227-sketchup-for-construction-documentation-2020
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