FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

Quality CAD programs

SEConst | Posted in General Discussion on March 27, 2009 02:38am

I am looking to purchase  new software for doing my own home design.  I currently have been using 3D Home Architect, but it is much too limited on features.  I was recommended Soft Plan by my local lumber yard draftsman, but the cost is more than I care to spend at this time. 

Could anyone recommend a quality program that is reasonably priced?  Is there anything that is compatible with Soft Plan?  (I am aware of the Soft Plan Lite, but I would like more features than that.)

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. User avater
    EricPaulson | Mar 27, 2009 02:43am | #1

    Google Sketch Up?

     

  2. caseyr | Mar 27, 2009 04:50am | #2

    This question generally gets covered several times a month (OK, maybe only once a month lately...) so I would suggest that until someone chooses to give you a current update, you might want to do a search on past posts. There is a wealth of opinions on the subject in the archives.

  3. jimAKAblue | Mar 27, 2009 07:03am | #3

    Chief Architect is the maker of 3d archtect and I think they have another step up in between Chief Architect and 3D. But, you probably won't be happy till you get all the way to Chief or Softplan.

    Sketchup can get quite a bit done and it's free. You might want to take a look at it. It's not quite an architectural drafting program but there's no limit on what it can do, given enough time and effort.

    To me, Sketchup is a bit better at doing "shop drawings" and details while Chief Architect is better at quickly creating the basic design.

    Free is "reasonably priced", so Sketchup meets that criteria. If you find that SU isn't what you are after, I'm offering a copy of last years version of Chief Architect for sale in another folder here. It's version XI and comes with a full license. It might be just "reasonably priced" enough for you. It also has the same basic interface as 3d, so that will give you a good headstart on learning the program.

    Shoot me an email if you are interested in doing a deal.

  4. Piffin | Mar 27, 2009 01:32pm | #4

    "ould anyone recommend a quality program that is reasonably priced? Is there anything that is compatible with Soft Plan? (I am aware of the Soft Plan Lite, but I would like more features than that.)"

    If you want to dance, you have to pay the piper.

    I posted a link here a couple weeks ago for a guy who has a used license for SP v 13 ( I think) for sale. Look in the reader classifieds folder. Also Mike Smith has an extra license for chief for sale. He is in that same thread.

     

     

    Welcome to the
    Taunton University of
    Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime.
     where ...
    Excellence is its own reward!

    1. Piffin | Mar 27, 2009 08:17pm | #5

      http://forums.taunton.com/tp-breaktime/messages?msg=117313.1 

       

      Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

  5. JohnFinn | Mar 27, 2009 08:34pm | #6

    DataCad will not disappoint, developed by architects for architects.
    They have a LT version available also, but the file size is limited, really depends on how large your projects are, there are some work arounds for that. Try downloading a free trial to see if you like it. Very powerful software, but much less expensive than Architectural Desktop, not sure how pricing is vs. Softplan or Chief.

    1. Piffin | Mar 27, 2009 09:08pm | #9

      I don't remember DataCad anymore...is it object based too, or a 2D drafting program?
      What kind of learning curve there to be productive?Others worth considering are Envisioneer, and Vectorworks. 

       

      Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

      1. JohnFinn | Mar 28, 2009 02:45am | #10

        DataCad latest V12 uses "smart" entities. The "white paper" on their web site wraps it up pretty nicely http://www.datacad.com/Why_DataCAD.htm.
        I've been using it since 1985, so I guess I'm pretty old school as far as cad, but I am digging into Revit Architecture now, and am really liking it - not cad at all but true parametric BIM.
        DataCad is pretty intuitive, I suppose it may be easier to pick up than AutoCad, but even today I only use maybe 1/3 of it's true capabilities. It plays pretty nice with AutoCad dwg files which is a big time saver for me when incorporating site plans or inserting symbols. I have it tuned pretty well for what I need it for, and it really is easily customized to fit whatever your looking for. A nice program for around 1200.00, and not update crazy either.

  6. Piffin | Mar 27, 2009 08:59pm | #7

    another thought comes up.
    As I recall, SP now makes the full program available as a monthly lease.

    This sounds like a one off project ( yeah sure - one CAD job is like one week only at BT - or only one hit of heroin, LOL) but if it is actually a short term CAD thing for you, like a hot affair in venice or going with the kids on Spring Break to FL, then a few months of lease might be the ticket.

    but check it closely. I'm not sure if it is areal lease of if they are financing the purchase price of X # of months.

    I'm a big SP fan, but you sound already familiar with the Chief protocols. Not everyone can jump from one program to another easily, and from all I understand, Chief is one of the easier and more intuitive to learn.

     

     

    Welcome to the
    Taunton University of
    Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime.
     where ...
    Excellence is its own reward!

    1. SEConst | Mar 28, 2009 05:47am | #11

      I would be looking for something to keep long-term.  I am a contractor who does design for others at times too.  The version of 3D Home Architect is old, so there will be alot different no matter what I would guess.

      Do you use full version of SP of Lite?  I am wondering about such things as windows specs such as Marvin and Anderson.

      1. jimAKAblue | Mar 28, 2009 06:46am | #12

        I started with the old version of 3d in windows 95. The interface and method of drawing is  the same in Chief Architect.

        But....Chief Architect is 100 times more powerful than 3D architect. There is a lot to learn and there will be a learning curve but it's worth it. Long term, it will pay for itself many, many, many times over. The professionalism that you gain by using the program in conjunction with your general contracts will gain you far more than the cost of the program.

        It's a great sales tool too and of course, you can make some good pocket money drawing for others. I did four designs last year at $3500 a pop.

      2. Piffin | Mar 28, 2009 12:07pm | #13

        I have used the full version of SP since about '98 v9. Have latest V14 now which includes both marvin and andersen window libraries. It was possible to import libraies from manuf sites in earlier versions. I don't know what is there in lite.my first main reason for the full version and not lite was that I wanted to be able to create my own walls. For instance we have a lot of older homes and I do remo, so I would have a thicker wall with plaster on rough cut studs.
        With SP lite, you only have the walls supplied with the program.boss hog here has the Lite version to design for others, so he could explain its limitations better. I'll see if I can ring him in 

         

        Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

  7. Piffin | Mar 27, 2009 09:04pm | #8

    Another thing that might help focus the discussion to your needs is something more specific on what sort of budget you have in mind , and what specifically you expect to be able to do that SP lite will not do for you.

    re, what style house and what is unique to it that would require the customization and power of the full program

     

     

    Welcome to the
    Taunton University of
    Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime.
     where ...
    Excellence is its own reward!

  8. User avater
    Jeff_Clarke | Mar 28, 2009 07:32pm | #14

    http://www.builderscad.com/

    View Image

  9. darrel | Mar 29, 2009 02:53am | #15

    One thought would be to consider sticking with an industrial standard. Might make things flexible down the road. Autocad would likely be overkill/over budget but maybe focus on SketchUp or TurboCad

    1. Piffin | Mar 29, 2009 01:22pm | #16

      Problenm with that suggestion is that there is no industry standard for residential construction 

       

      Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

  10. Rupesh | Apr 30, 2022 02:28am | #17

    Visit https://www.siliconinfo.com/cad-outsourcing-services/architectural-services.html for Your all doubts get cleared.

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

FHB Summit 2025 — Design, Build, Business

Join some of the most experienced and recognized building professionals for two days of presentations, panel discussions, networking, and more.

Featured Video

A Modern California Home Wrapped in Rockwool Insulation for Energy Efficiency and Fire Resistance

The designer and builder of the 2018 Fine Homebuilding House detail why they chose mineral-wool batts and high-density boards for all of their insulation needs.

Related Stories

  • Podcast Episode 686: Brick Steps, Ground-Source Heat Pumps, and Greenhouses in Nova Scotia
  • FHB Podcast Segment: Efficient HVAC for a New Build
  • Affordable Scans, Accurate Plans
  • FHB Summit 2025 — Design, Build, Business

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers
  • Issue 327 - November 2024
    • Repairing Damaged Walls and Ceilings
    • Plumbing Protection
    • Talking Shop

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data