15 replies to this topic

[gary wood]

Can someone explain how to draw angle bracing for a free standing deck

[Henry Buckner]

If you click on Draw/Column you will also get the option to draw an angled brace

[Brent Hyndman]

Angle Braces were added in version 2022.

[gary wood]

Can't find draw/column   

Upgrade to 2022 for $1345 not an option 

[Mark Petri]

Just draw a solid polygon to the spec you want for the brace. Add only that drawing (all by itself) to the model. Then save the resulting 3D DWG. Save a copy of the 3D model to the 3D library of your choice in your SoftPlan folders. Draw the line work for how it would look in plan view and then use that linework for the 2D representation to create a new symbol and link it to the 3D DWG model you exported. There are some tutorials out there on how to make your own symbols if you are unfamiliar with what to do. Also, there are some fancy braces and brackets in the existing libraries. If not too concerned about perfect 3D representation, you can also use a sloped beam to achieve the look. It works well especially if the brace is smaller than the post and beam it is attached to. Make sure you uncheck cleanup and anchor it so it doesn't move unexpectedly (although it still may do that).

[gary wood]

Hi Mark

I used beam method and re- defined it as a 2x4 PT but I'm having problems getting it to appear on an angle as needed 

I tried adjusting and moving one end and the entire object moves.  Thanks for your time

[Sam Morgan]

when you edit the beam you can check the slope button then adjust each end.  Thats how I've always done it until they added the bracket feature.  You should consider going to SP+ monthly...you're missing out on some good features and the monthly payment is easy

[gary wood]

Sorry Sam  I'm not seeing slope button. I appreciate the suggestion about Softplan+

[Sam Morgan]

It's been there at least since I started on V13

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[gary wood]

I apologize .I was working on a deck and I drew a deck beam and they do not have that option. 

[gary wood]

Got it Thanks to both of you 

[Mark Petri]

You can assign the ends of the beam to rake or cut plumb, or use a profile if you want. Sometimes it helps to try different things when using them as braces or rafters. Not perfect, but works in a pinch.

[Keith Almond]

I've never understood why we NEED different beams for deck beams and beams (with different options) ... In my opinion it would be much preferable to have just beams and allow alternate finishes like sidings do.

[gary wood]

I've created an angle beam for an angle brace. I cannot adjust the length. Length is ghosted when I click on it allows me to highlight numbers but will not change

[Mark Petri]

Not sure I am understanding, but I am guessing you are looking at the length in the beam edit menu. The length unfortunately is purely adjusted by using the adjust tool in plan view or 3D. You cannot type in a length. So, dimension it or set some guidelines and adjust accordingly.

[gary wood]

Got it thanks again Mark