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Mud Math: Figuring Concrete Volume with SketchUp
2 commentsWhen figuring concrete for bidding or pouring it's important to get a reliable volume amount. Use SketchUp to do your "mud math" for confident results when you call for that big white truck...
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How to Calculate Rafters for Intersecting Roof Planes the Easy Way
Using SketchUp as a visual calculator can simplify rafter layout for intersecting roof planes. While common rafter layout is fairly quick and straightforward using a framing square and construction calculator watch this video to see how easy it is to layout a non-typical rafter.
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Locate Your Building on a Plot Plan with SketchUp
5 commentsWith the challenges of setbacks, easements, drainage planning, and other code compliance issues, it's important to get the location for a structure properly on the lot. Google's free 3-D modeling software has some features that make drawing a plot plan a snap.
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Simplify Rafter-Pattern-Layout Math with Google SketchUp
SketchUp can be a useful option for layout and planning for cutting rafters. Check out this process for doing the math and see if it fits into your "bag-o-tricks" for carpentry or design projects.
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Smart Phone Apps for Builders: Velux Skylight Planner
4 commentsClients love skylights. Now you can show them what one would look like in their living room.
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Smart Phone Apps for Builders: Photo Measures
A app that overlays manual measurements over photos.
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Smart Phone Apps for Builders: GasBuddy
A good app for the contractor who drives a lot and is looking to save few bucks.
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Smart Phone Apps for Builders: Cost vs Value
A unique app that shows baseline pricing based on project type, level of finish, and region.
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Smart Phone Apps for Builders: iConfirm
Paperless and real-time change orders. iConfirm showcases a business process of the future, making it usable today.
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Smart Phone Apps for Builders: Home Depot
1 commentA surprisingly robust application, complements of a big box store
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How to Paint Fiber-Cement Siding
Painter Jim Lacey shares some tips for caulking and painting fiber-cement siding. read more
The Digital Job Site
Get the inside scoop on how builders, remodelers, and architects use the free 3-D modeling software Google SketchUp to design projects and present them to clients.
You'll find practical advice on how to use this powerful drawing tool, and get some insight into how some experienced builders and designers have workied it into their set of everyday tools. If you are new to SketchUp, you might want to get warmed up with a few of Google's free tutorials.
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