Where can I aquire TF softtware?

Greetings all,

Nice place. Im an historical reproduction specialist and TF has always been a deep love, so I figured Id roll up my sleeves and learn (as part of a 17th century house project I have in mind too). I do a lot of woodwork and been practicing with all sorts of period axes, hewing axes, chisels etc.

Guess my question is two fold.

Where can one get software for designing a TF structure?

And/or are there freelance folks who can create blueprints for this purpose.

Oh, and any suggestions when running the prints by the local permit office? (so they dont spit out their coffee when reviewing something a bit more unusual like a TF structure?)


thanks
Drew

Drew:
I can help you on both questions.
Dietrich's software is designed for doing timber framing. However it is not for the average home user. It is a professional program, and we can discuss the details.
Send me a private email.

I use this program to do drawings, for myself and others.

About the permit office, you should/could have a before hand chat with them and ask them what they will need to ok a set of plans. If they want them reviewed by an engineer, so they feel safe with ok'ing them then we can help you find an experienced timber framing engineer who is licensed in your area and can help you by reviewing and advising you about your design/plans.

Jim Rogers

PS where are you located?

At the other end of the spectrum is Google Sketchup, which is free. Many timber framers are using it, so there are examples around. You can also get a set of plugins (also free) developed (by me) specifically for timber framers that expand on Sketchup's capabilities. And I also do freelance work. CB.

Andrew -

Another user of SketchUp here, and I also use an AutoCAD based system to do drawings for clients. I've dabbled with Dietrich's but decided to keep to what I know - HSB and SketchUp. HSB is $$$ and typically for professionals doing production work (as it Dietrich's and Cadworks).

You can learn to do the SketchUp part yourself if you have the time, or you can hire someone on these boards (myself included) to do the work.

Depending on where you are and what your goals are I may be of help. Both Jim and Daiku are also qualified. Building depts vary - but should be fine with reviewing drawings. Worst case is you'll need an engineer with TF experience to check things over and seal your drawings.



-Mike
(see my email info below, and I'm available by phone as well)

This is where a 3D model, like SketchUp, shines IMO. Our building official couldn't put the printouts down , kept shuffeling back and forth, with a huge smile on his face. We did have a set of architect drawn /PEng. stamped plans as well and that's what got stamped at the end, but he thought the SU prints were a fantastic addition to the package....something they haven't seen before
Glad you're on board, you're in good company now