Subject Sketch

[Keith]

I have always used graph paper to sketch the subject. I was wondering how everyone else does it. Further, how many of you simply scan in your field sketch without redrawing it with Apex or Winsketch? If I was a better artist, I suppose I could save a few minutes per appraisal that way. My sketches look like I drew them with my toes

In any case I am attaching a PDF graph that you may use for sketches. If you have never used graph paper, it's great! Especially for those chopped up monsters.

 

[Keith]

Hey Wayne, where did my attachment go?

 

[Bill_FL]

I use Apex. I think most probably do. Unlike many, I draw all interior features, walls, closets, etc.

 

[Willie]

I hand draw but will learn Apex when I get some time. Ouch, I'm a fossil at 34.

 

[Judy Whitehead (Florida)]

If you take the time to learn Apex you will save many, many hours. I still don't even know how to operate some of the features. I taught a computer challenged person who came to work for me four years ago and simply started with the basics. Draw a rectangle, add a garage, add an entry porch, etc. Then progress to filling in the rooms free form. It really isn't hard, but I know that it is difficult without someone there to help you. Give it a try and ask questions on the technical thread....

 

[Judy Whitehead (Florida)]

Oh - I do use graph paper in the field when I measure my house. I find that it helps me cut down on measuring errors (1 square per foot) and gives me a larger drawing. If I try to free form on legal paper or something, I lose all perspective.

 

[Jo Ann Meyer Stratton]

And I will add my usual tip for using Apex. When you are first learning and later when you have a difficult sketch or just want to make sure the drawing will close: Use the free form (F5 key) to draw the exterior of the building first. With free form you change your mind, back track, draw on top of, draw on opposites of the screen, etc, etc, etc. And the computer will not freeze or blow up when you do because it is not calculated areas. After the free form sketch is done--you then select your calculated area and follow the dots. When your calculated area is complete, select free form again and then delete the free form lines.

 

[Mike Garrett RAA]

I have both Apex and Wintotal, switched back to wintotal because I am so familiar with it and haven't had the time to learn another program. Guess that makes me outdated too! Actually, my assistant inputs the sketch so I don't have to do them that often...she uses Apex because that is what she learned on. Can't imagine anyone doing hand drawn sketches these days.

 

[Compass Rose]

I also use graph paper in the field, but mostly to keep my lines straight. I copy the graph (with the darker lines every 10 spaces) onto the back of my checklist. I used to draw interior walls & some features like fireplaces, but I find that no one really cares if I don't and it saves a lot of time not doing it.

Also curious as to what people are rounding off to? I used to round off to the nearest 1/2 foot, but find in this area people round off to the nearest 1/10 of a foot. Maybe because stucco is not exact, but I find that I usually have a small difference from side to side.

Jo Ann, that is a great hint I will definitely try!

 

[wyecoyote]

I use apex at the office but use graph paper in the field. Keeps my lines straight when drawing and I know that if the sketch does not close on the graph paper it will not close on Apex.