Subject Num Article Title
no subject 721 How do I import a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet into Chief Architect so that all of the columns, rows and cells are clearly marked?I would like to copy and paste a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet into a Chief Architect file. How can I accomplish this task so that all of the columns, rows and cells are visible? architectural blocks 499 How to edit architectural blocksI have been working with architectural blocks from the Chief Architect Library Browser and these are not exactly what I need. How I can change these to meet my needs?
arcs 23 How to create an arc for a portion of a plot planOne of the sides of my plot plan is curved rather than a straight line. How can I define this arc accurately? arcs 123 How do I create a plan thumbnail for a different floor?When I close my plan, a thumbnail file is created for the plan database. However, it is not for the floor I want - how do I create a thumbnail file for the floor that I would like to display? arcs 565 How to create a polyline solid with an arc in itI would like to create a polyline solid that includes an arc with a precise radius; however, when I create a rectangular polyline solid using the Polyline Solid tool, I must use the Break Line tool to reshape the rectangle into an arc. This is very imprecise. How can I specify a precise value for the radius?
565_figure1.jpg
arcs 693 I see a lot of tick marks on my symbols and in my CAD drawings. How do I get rid of the tick marks that I see on symbols and CAD details. I did not put them there cannot seem to select or delete them. backdrops 221 How do I create custom backdrops for Chief Architect?I would like to create a custom backdrop to use in my full-camera and render views in Chief Architect. What are some guidelines for creating a backdrop?
backdrops 643 How do I specify a spherical backdrop for my 3D views?I would like to use a panoramic backdrop for my 3D views. How can I set my backdrop so that it is spherical? beams 457 How to create a beamHow do I create a beam? buttons 171 How to change an open polyline to a closed polylineI created a polyline using the Draw Line and Draw Arc tools, but cannot get it the edges that I drew to for a single object. Instead, the individual lines and arcs can be selected separately. What am I doing wrong?
buttons 228 How to display the Status Bar After I select the toolbar button I want to use, my Status Bar at the bottom of the screen disappears. How do I get the Status Bar to display the current floor, the current CAD layer the tool that I am working with and the position of my cursor all the time? buttons 481 My mouse wheel scrolls up and down instead of zooming in and outWhen drawing in Chief Architect, the mouse wheel is supposed to zoom in and out of your drawing. When I use my mouse wheel, however, it scrolls up and down instead. Why is this and how can I fix it?
buttons 689 I do not see the Refresh Display icon on my toolbarsThe Chief Architect standard toolbar does not include a Refresh Display button. Is this button still available, and if not, how can I refresh my display? buttons 690 I see icons on the menus but I cannot find them in the Toolbar Customization dialogI see some icons in the menus, but cannot find them in the Toolbar Customization dialog. Where can I find these icons? cabinets 178 How to adjust cabinet width incrementsI placed a cabinet in my plan, and when I go into try to adjust its size, its edges only move in 3" increments. Why is this? cabinets 229 How to change minimum width of cabinetsWhen I place a cabinet in plan view and try to adjust it to a smaller size, it will not go any smaller than 9". How do I resize it to a smaller width? cabinets 330 How do I add a corner cabinet to a plan?How do I add a corner cabinet to a plan?
330-Figure1.jpg
cabinets 433 How do I build a wine rack or a plate shelf using a cabinet in Chief Architect?I would like to know the correct procedure for creating a wine rack or plate rack in a cabinet using Chief Architect. cabinets 435 How to add glass doors to a cabinetI am not able to select the Glass Doors option in my cabinets' specification dialogs. How do I specify glass doors when the option is grayed out? cabinets 657 How to create barrier-free cabinetsI am designing a kitchen for a client with a disability and would like to know how I can create kitchen cabinets that meet his needs. How can I do this?657_figure1.jpg
cabinets 701 How do I add multiple moldings to a cabinet?I would like to add several moldings to my cabinet - one on top, one in the middle and another on the bottom. How do I add multiple moldings to a single cabinet? 701_figure8.jpg
cabinets 787 How do I edit the shelves inside of my cabinet?How do I change the type, number, thickness, spacing and depth of the shelves inside of my cabinets? CAD blocks 14 How to explode a CAD blockI'm not able to explode a CAD block. When I click the Explode CAD Block edit button, I get a warning message that reads:
"Cannot explode block when x and y scaling is different." CAD blocks 16 How to flip a CAD blockI would like to know how to flip a CAD block to create a reversed, or mirrored, version of it. CAD blocks 380 How to delete unused CAD blocks from a planIs there a way I can delete the unused CAD blocks that are referenced in my plan? CAD blocks 500 How to customize a CAD blockI have been looking at the CAD details in the Chief Architect CAD Blocks library category, and these are not exactly what I need. Is there a way to edit one of these drawings to make it meet my particular needs?
cameras 823 A message asks if I want to delete a saved camera.I am getting the following message about deleting a saved camera. What does this mean?-272032193 Do you really want to delete this camera? Deleting this saved camera will delete the view it represents along with any CAD or other objects you have created in that view.
ceilings 29 When I change a value in some specification dialogs, my change is not saved.In some specification dialogs, I find that when I change a value, my change isn't saved when I return to the dialog. For example, when attempting to change the Ceiling Height (B) from the value in the Room Specification dialog, the value entered is not saved. ceilings 471 How to create a cathedral ceilingI want to create a room with a cathedral ceiling. How do I do this? ceilings 584 How do I specify the material for a cathedral or vaulted ceiling? I created a cathedral ceiling in my plan and would like to specify the material that displays on this ceiling. How do I do this? ceilings 650 How do I create a barrel, or curved ceiling?I would like to create a barrel ceiling on the inside of my structure. How can I accomplish this?
650%20_BarrelCeiling.JPG
Chief Architect 27 What operating systems does Chief Architect run on?I would like to know which operating system my version of Chief Architect is designed to run on. Chief Architect 214 How to troubleshoot installation problemsThis troubleshooter will help you resolve most problems with installation of Chief Architect products. Chief Architect 349 How do I use the Build House Wizard?How do I use the Build House Wizard to lay out a new floor plan? Chief Architect 466 How do I uninstall Chief Architect?How do I remove Chief Architect from a computer, and is there anything that I need to do before I uninstall? chimneys 58 How to create a custom chimney and fireplaceI would like to create a custom fireplace with an insert, hearth and mantle. How can I do this? colors 216 How do I change the color of the reference floor lines?I am working on floor two, and I want to have the first floor referenced. By default, the reference floor lines display in red. How can I change that color? colors 474 How to apply different materials to a ceilingI would like to change the color of the ceiling in my model. How is this accomplished? colors 730 Using Color Chooser to incorporate colors from photos or Web sites into your drawingsI have found colors at manufacturers' websites, in digital photos, and in other files on my computer and want to incorporate these colors into my design. How can I accomplish this task? columns 629 The Code column disappeared from the Components dialog. How do I get it back?I cannot find the Code column in the Components dialog. It seems to have disappeared - how can I get it back? columns 796 How to create a chamfer or bevel on the top of a concrete columnHow do I create a chamfer or bevel at the top of a concrete column?
796_image5.jpg
decks 444 How to create a deckHow do I create and modify a deck? decks 794 How to customize deck planking and framingI would like to create a deck with angled deck planking and border planks. How can I customize deck planking and framing?
794-figure13.jpg
decks 852 How to create a deck around an above-ground pool or spaMy clients need a deck built around their existing above-ground pool. How can I design it for them in Chief?852_figure1.jpg
defaults 656 How do I turn off the Snap and Reference grids?When I start Chief Architect, I notice that a grid is present. I can zoom in or out, pan to the left or right, but the grid is always visible. How can I turn the grid on or off, or modify its appearance? defaults 658 How to specify which wall layer exterior dimensions locateI would like Auto Exterior Dimensions to locate the sheathing layer of my exterior walls, but the only options I have on the Locate Objects tab of the Dimension Defaults dialog are Surfaces and Wall Dimension Layer. How can I specify the wall layer that exterior dimensions locate? defaults 680 How do I define the default materials for my corner boards?I would like to define the default materials for my corner boards. How is this accomplished? details 223 How to prevent layout views from updatingI have a plan view sent to my layout, and when I make changes in plan view it changes my layout view, as well. How can I make plan changes without affecting my layout? details 580 How to create a cabinet detailCan you offer some suggestions for creating cabinet details?580_figure1.jpg
details 766 How to detail a cross-section view How can create a detail drawing from a cross section view?
766_figure1.jpg
dimensions 186 How to control the size of dimension numbers on-screenWhen I zoom out, my dimensions become too small to read. How can I make the dimensions stay the same size while I zoom out from the plan? directories 54 How to change the default directory for opening filesI would like Chief Architect to default to a specific folder on my computer when opening files. How do I do this?
doors 346 How to create an aluminum storm doorI want to place an aluminum storm door, or screen door, in front of my normal entry door. However, I can't seem to place two doors in the same location in a wall. How do I do that?
doors 406 How to create a monogram for a door entranceStorm doors can often be customized by putting the initials of the family that owns the house on the storm door. How to accomplish this is the focus of this article. doors 615 How do I change a door's hinge and swing sides?I would like to know how to change the the side of a door the hinges are located on, as well as how to change the direction that the door opens. doorways 334 How to create a transom and side lites for a doorI would like to add a transom and side lites to a door in my plan. How do I do this?
334_figure1.jpg
drawings 13 How to convert plan files to .dxf or .dwg formatI have a Chief Architect plan that I need to open in AutoCAD. How do I convert it to .dxf or .dwg? drivers 209 What driver is needed for my hardware lock?I receive one of the following error messages when I start Chief Architect:
"Unexpected error."
"No appropriate hardware lock was found."
“Invalid Hardware Lock”
"This version of Chief Architect requires a network hardware lock. Contact your system administrator." drivers 569 My hardware lock isn't workingI just got a new computer or upgraded my operating system and now my hardware lock isn't working. One of the following error messages appears when I try to launch Chief Architect:
HASP Device Driver Installing the Device drivers failed. Failed to start the Aladdin Device Driver. Failed to start a service in the Service Control Manager Database
No Appropriate Hardware Lock Was Found
Missing file aks.usb
drivers 818 Error: "You do not appear to be using a driver customized for your video card."I am getting the following error when I use Chief Architect. What does this mean?-272032207 You do not appear to be using a driver customized for your video card. For the best performance, we recommend you download and install a video card driver from your video card vendor.
elevations 52 How to rotate a 3D view on a layout pageHow do I rotate an elevation after it has been sent to a layout sheet? The elevation is already on my layout, I just want to be able to select it and rotate it. errors 28 Error message: Attempt to Access Missing P-List 2300When I take any 3D view of your plan or rebuild walls, floors and ceilings, I get this error message:
"Error 2300: Attempt to Access Missing P-List 2300."
After the error appears, the plan seems to generate normally in the 3D view. errors 87 Missing Files error messages when opening older plansWhen I open a plan that was created in an earlier version of Chief Architect than the one I am now using, I get a "Missing File" error message. What does this mean, and how can I prevent the error message from displaying? errors 185 "No appropriate hardware lock found" when installing a network lockWhen installing a multiple license network lock on a new host machine, the following error messages display:
"No appropriate hardware lock found.
"This version of Chief Architect requires a network hardware lock. Contact your system administrator." errors 802 I get an error message in appmgr.cpp(196) - What does this mean?I am getting the following error message.
.\source\appmgr.cpp(196): Warning #272000009" Exception. Please report to Chief Architect Technical Support how this exception occurred. " errors 813 Information about error messagesBeginning in Chief Architect X1, build 11.3, you can click the Check Help Database button at the bottom left corner of any warning or error message to launch your Internet browser to our on-line Help Database. If an article with information about the message is available, its page will display; if not, this page will.
We currently do not have any online help available for this problem.
If you are continuously having this problem or if you can reproduce the problem, please contact Technical Support by creating a ticket in the Online Support Center errors 815 Chief Architect X1 Update NotesThis is a list of the changes made to Chief Architect X1 in the X1.3 program update. This list includes significant program enhancements and corrections for problems that were encountered after the release.
While we endeavor to thoroughly test the program before each release, it is not possible to test every conceivable combination of actions. As problems are identified, we resolve them with periodic program updates.
PLEASE NOTE - Significant changes to program functionality have been made in the X1.3 update. Any plan or layout files edited in X1.3 cannot be opened in earlier versions of the program, including earlier versions of X1. Before updating to X1.3, please read the following notes carefully.
errors 826 Missing Registry.ini file error when running 11.3 program updateWhen I try to run the Chief Architect 11.3 program update, I encounter the following error message:
"Patch warning - Missing or invalid Registry.INI entry" errors 837 A message states that that overly complex wall surfaces are being producedI get a message that says: "Overly complex wall surfaces being produced. One or more walls may have a large amount of openings or complex mulled units. Try simplifying the openings in the wall or using the wall break tool." errors 845 Error: "A polyline (perhaps a roof plane, countertop or slab) is supposed to be closed but has a gap between two of its lines. A line or arc has been moved to close the gap."I keep seeing the following error message in one of my plans. What does it mean? A polyline (perhaps a roof plane, countertop or slab) is supposed to be closed but has a gap between two of its lines. A line or arc has been moved to close the gap.
files 22 Files are missing from my layout fileWhen I open a layout file, a dialog opens with two windows that say: "Files present in layout" and "Files not found in layout". This window has the plan file listed in the second section, but the views do not display. files 360 Recovering deleted filesI have lost a number of my drawing files, and fear they may have been deleted. Is there any way to recover these lost files? files 366 How to prevent data loss or recover lost filesI am concerned that I may have lost a number of files. I don't remember deleting them, but they are gone nevertheless. What can I do about my lost files, and what changes can I make now to stop this kind of loss in the future?
files 369 How to find missing filesMy plan file was here yesterday, but today it seems to be missing. Where is the first place I should look for my missing file? files 384 What are the different methods I can use to backup my data?Having lost data in the past, I recognize the need to regularly back up my Chief Architect drawing files, as well as other critical data on my computer. What are the different types of backup methods I can use? files 562 Guide to File Management for Chief Architect Plan FilesHow can I organize my plan files for Chief Architect? files 611 How to create a Windows MetafileHow do I save my plan as a .wmf, or Windows Metafile? files 620 How to trace over a digital imageI have a digital picture of a floor plan and would like to trace over it using the architectural tools in Chief Architect. How can I bring the picture into the program so that it is scaled correctly and then use it as a template that I can draw over? files 737 How to create and use a layout template.I would like to create and use a layout template in Chief Architect. files 775 How to manage archive filesI see that every time I create a new plan or layout file, Chief Architect creates an archive folder and then automatically saves copies of the file into that folder. Will all these files slow down my computer's performance? Also, what should I do when the program prompts me to manage these archive files? files 830 A message states that the Trial version does not allow file savingI am using the Chief Architect Trial version, and encountered the following error message:
Trial Restriction: The TRIAL version does not allow file saving.
floors 50 Setting a room to be "Open Below" has no effect.A room marked as Open Below in my plan has a floor instead of an opening to the floor below. floors 172 How do I copy an item from the first floor to the exact same place on the second floor?I have a cabinet or other item on the first floor, and I want it in the exact same place on the second floor. How can I do this? floors 616 How do I delete an unwanted floor or foundation?I need to delete an unwanted floor in Chief Architect. How do I accomplish this? floors 426 How to build a stage platformI need a raised stage in one portion of my plan. How can I create it? floors 475 How do I superimpose or reference one floor on top of another floor?Is there a way to superimpose or reference the contents of floor one on top of floor two; a way that would allow me to edit floor two while looking at floor one? floors 563 How do floor and ceiling heights work in the Room Specification dialog?I want to know how floor and ceiling heights work on the General tab of the Room Specification dialog. In particular, I need an explanation of all of the various heights, from Floor Height (A) = 0, going up from the first floor to the second floor, and then moving down to the basement.
fonts 6 Chief Architect does not have the same fonts from one computer to the next.When using Chief Architect, I do not have the same selection of fonts from one computer to the next. When I select Edit> Preferences from the menu and go to the Font category, I see some of the same fonts, but not the font that I want to use. fonts 682 Can Chief Architect use AutoCAD fonts?I have a number of fonts that I have used with AutoCAD in the past and would like to know how to make use of these fonts with Chief Architect. These fonts have a number of different names and a file extension of .shx. Can I use any of these .shx fonts in Chief Architect? footings 352 How to create footings under a deckPad footings are not visible in my drawing after I build my deck framing. What process must I use to get the pad footings to appear under my deck? footings 745 How to create an interior footing under a slab foundationIn our area, foundations are typically a monolithic slab with concrete footings placed under the exterior and interior bearing walls. How do I draw this in Chief Architect? foundations 130 Why is there a 1 1/2" gap above my stem wall?When I create a Cross Section/Elevation view of my plan, I see a gap that measures 1 1/2" between the top of my stem wall and the floor platform of my first floor. What is the purpose of the gap?
130_figure1.jpg
foundations 532 How to create a bell footingHow can I create a bell footing?
532_figure16.jpg
framing 17 How to display framing in a Cross Section/Elevation viewI am not able to see my framing when I create a Cross Section/Elevation view. What do I need to do to display the framing? framing 196 How do I delete framing?How can I delete the wall framing in a plan?
framing 217 How do I display only roof framing in 3D?I would like to display the framing for my roof 3D, and nothing else. How can I do this?
framing 395 Where does the treated sill plate thickness show when I am setting my room heights?In the Room Specification dialog, I cannot tell whether the sill plate is included as part of the stem wall height or if it is included in the wall above the stem wall. framing 400 My floor and ceiling will not frame when I add framing to the rest of my plan.When I build framing for my model, the entire structure frames quite nicely. However; despite my best efforts, the floor and ceiling will not frame. Why won't the framing generate in these two areas? framing 465 General Framing GuidelinesWhat is the best way to approach framing in Chief Architect?
framing 545 How to make floor joists sit flush with the top of the stem wallI am creating a floor platform in which the floor joists are even with the top of the stem wall. How do I build a floor platform inside my foundation so that the joists are flush with the top of the stem walls?
545-Figure13.jpg
framing 571 How do I edit wall framing?I have generated wall framing in my plan and would like to make some changes to it. How is this accomplished? framing 598 How to create a post and beam structureI would like to create a post and beam structure. How can I do this? framing 600 How to delete roof framingI deleted the roof in my plan but still see the roof framing. Why is it still there and how do I delete the roof framing as well? garages 841 How to customize a garageI would like to create custom storage and work space in a garage plan. How can I do this?841_figure1.jpg
hardware locks 272 How to use the Aladdin Monitor to see Network UsersI would like to see who is using my network hardware lock as well as other information about my lock. How can I do this? hardware locks 588 I have lost my hardware lock. How do I replace it?I had a hardware lock, but now it is gone. How do I arrange to replace my hardware lock? hardware locks 728 How do I install a network hardware lock?How do I install a network hardware lock?
images 7 How to add a picture or painting to the libraryHow can I add a picture to the library so that I can display it on a desk or on a wall in my plan?
007_figure5.jpg
images 10 Views that were sent to layout are not longer visibleAfter sending a view to layout, the image is no longer found. The view was there, and I regularly save my work. Why is it gone now and how can I prevent this from happening again? images 347 How to save a view of my plan as a pictureHow do I save a 2D or 3D view of my plan as a graphic, or picture file, such as a .bmp, .jpg or .png? labels 8 Both door and window labels are set to display, but only window labels are visible.I have made sure that the door and window labels that display their sizes are set to display in 2D, but the doors in my plan do not have labels while the windows do. Why is this? layers 386 How do I make the layers in two drawings the same?I have customized my layers in one of my plan files and would like use these same layer settings in another plan. How do I make the layer configurations match between the two drawings? layers 473 How to change the way objects look in floor plan viewI would like to change the colors used in plan view for a variety of objects. Some of these include walls, doors, electrical items and dimension lines. How do I make these changes, but only have them apply to one plan I am working on right now? layers 645 How to assign objects to layersI have a large number of architectural objects on my drawing that all need to be assigned to a specific layer. How can I quickly change just those objects to a new layer, while leaving the balance on their current layer? layers 670 How do I draw a single wall and lock it so that it cannot move?I would like to lock one single wall in my plan so that it cannot be moved, but not affect any other walls in doing so. How can I accomplish this task? layers 671 Why can't I select or move one wall in my plan?In my drawing, I have one specific wall that I cannot select, move or modify. Why is this and what do I need to do to access this wall? layers 795 How to display and print objects on another floorI would like to print a view of my foundation plan that includes the location of plumbing fixtures on the floor above. How can I do this?
795_figure7.jpg
layers 799 How to use Layer Set DefaultsWhat is the purpose of the Layer Set Defaults dialog and how can I use the options in this dialog to my advantage? layouts 198 How to send a view to layout so that it fills the pageI have a view that I want to send to my layout page, and I want it to fill the entire page. How do I do this? layouts 476 When I send a cross section view to several pages of my layout, I get inconsistent resultsI have been trying to send several views of the same cross section/elevation view to layout on different pages and I get inconsistent results. Some pages in layout are displaying the wrong items. Also, sometimes, when I double click the view in layout I don't get the correct view displayed. What is going on here? layouts 483 What software do I need to create a PDF file?I need to print my documents remotely and am looking for a way to create a PDF because that is what my print shop will accept and can print. What software do I need to create a PDF file? libraries 2 How to add a CAD Detail to the libraryI have a CAD detail, and would like to be able to use it in more than one plan. How do I add it to the library?
libraries 222 How do I add custom backdrops to Chief Architect?I have created a number of custom backdrops. I have copied the images from my digital camera to my desktop, and now I would like to make them usable in Chief Architect. How do I add them to the program? libraries 542 How to create a list of the items in a specific libraryI would like to create a list of all of the items within a specific Chief Architect library in a word or spreadsheet program outside of Chief. How can I accomplish this? libraries 677 How do I make my own gutters?I would like to create my own gutter profile and add that profile to the library so I can use it in future drawings. How can I accomplish this? libraries 792 Where are my manufacturer libraries?I didn't get any manufacturer libraries when I installed Chief Architect X1. Where can I get these files? libraries 810 The Library Browser is covering my drawing area.My Library and Project Browser window covers my entire Chief Architect drawing area, and I can't resize it back to normal. What should I do? lights 608 How to add light fixtures, fans and other electrical objects to a planWhen I select Build> Electrical from the menu, I have a choice between a 110V and a 220V Outlet, a Light, and a Switch. These choices are pretty generic - how do I add special application outlets and switches, light fixtures with different styles, or other objects such as smoke detectors and fans? lights 808 How to create a bollard path light using SolidsI would like to learn how to create a post with a light fixture integrated into it. How can I do this?
808_figure1.jpg
line weights 225 Why do all of my line styles appear to look the same?All of my line styles appear to look the same, as solid, instead of dashed, lines. They appear indistinguishable from each other. Why? lines 192 How to control the size of line length labelsI have created a plot plan using the CAD tools, but when I send the view to layout or print it, the dimension information is too small to read. How do I increase the size of plot plan dimension numbers so they are viewable in layout. lines 387 How do I join two lines using the Fillet and Chamfer tools?When I want to join two walls, I click on one of the walls and then simply click the Connect Walls edit button and the two walls will join into one. Does Chief Architect have a "Connect CAD Lines" tool? material lists 98 How to add items to the materials listHow can I add a line item to a materials list in the appropriate category? For example, I would like to add the cost to use a cement mixer to the "Foundation" category. material lists 184 How to count sheetrock for the walls of a single roomWhen I calculate a Materials List using the Calculate From Room feature, it does not display the sheetrock for the walls. How can I get a count of the wall sheetrock needed for a single room in my plan? material lists 510 How to display the Material List Display Options dialogHow do I get the Material List Display Options dialog to appear?
material lists 560 What is "Fir Stud Stock" and why is it on my Materials List?I have just created a materials list, and on the list I see an entry for Fir Stud Stock. What is Fir Stud Stock, and how is it different from the Fir Stud or Fir Plate that is also listed on my materials list? material lists 603 How to save changes and prices entered into a Materials ListHow do I save changes and prices I have entered into a Materials List for later use?
materials 4 How do I blend colors with materials?
I want to be able to apply a solid color to a surface displaying a pattern, or texture, and blend the two. How do I do that? materials 97 How to change the transparency of a materialMy landscaping plan includes a water feature and I would like to be able to see through the water to the bottom of the pool. How can I edit a library material so that it can be seen through? materials 194 How to change the direction of a material's pattern and texture I have created a custom material and would like to rotate it so that its pattern and texture run in a different direction in 3D views. How can I do this?
194_figure8.jpg
materials 459 How to set up default materials for stairsHow do I set up the default materials for stairs before they are drawn? materials 472 How to change materials in a roomI would like to change the color and textures beign used in a room, including the walls, floors, ceilings and moldings from floor plan view. How is this accomplished? materials 586 I used the Material Painter to modify my walls, and now I can't undo the changes. What should I do?I used the Material Painter to paint different colors and textures on the walls of my structure, and now I can't restore them back to the default materials. How do I reset the colors and textures to default? materials 713 How do I change the size of my drywall sheets to 12ft in the materials list?On the materials list the size of a sheet of drywall defaults to 4'x8'. I want to change the default to 4'x12'. How can I accomplish this? materials 767 How to create a new materialHow can I add a new material to the library?
767_figure3.jpg
materials 789 How do I use Copy + Paste Special to create a new material?I have found a free picture online that I would like to turn into a material to use in Chief Architect X1.
How can I copy it and paste it into the program as a material? materials 793 How to use the Material Painter modesWhat does each of the five Material Painter modes do and how can I use them? menus 522 How do I control how many plan and layout files display at the bottom of the File menu? At the bottom of the File menu, my four most recently opened files are listed. Is there a way I can change the number of files that display here? moldings 166 How to create a custom moldingI want to draw a custom molding profile and add it to my library.
166-figure2.jpg
moldings 320 How to control the display of molding in a roomWhenever I create a 3D view of the interior of my structure, I see base molding that I did not specify. Why is this, and how do I change or get rid of this base molding? moldings 503 How to create a mantle using crown moldingI would like to create a fireplace mantle using built-up crown molding. How do I do this?
503_figure1.jpg
moldings 786 How to create and use symbol moldingsI would like to learn more about creating and using the symbol molding tool to create detailed dentil moldings. 786_image21.jpg
moldings 797 How to create a soldier course molding for a window casing and sill using a symbol moldingHow do I create a brick soldier course around a window and a sloped brick sill using the symbol moldings in Chief Architect? moldings 824 How to edit a molding profileI found a molding profile in the Moldings and Profiles library category that is similar to what I need but would like to make some changes to it. How can I do this? moldings 840 How to create a custom dentil moldingMy project calls for a custom dentil molding. How can I create one? 840_figure1.jpg
objects 53 How to move objects without restrictionsI've come across a number of situations where I would like to move an object such as furniture, cabinetry, or a decorative accessory to a new location but can't because other objects are in the way. How can I avoid this? objects 328 How do I use the Accurate Move edit tool?When placing an object with Chief Architect, the mouse will sometimes move too quickly to place the object accurately within a drawing. How can I slow down the mouse movement so that this is not a problem? objects 331 How to use the Fireplace toolWhat is the fastest way to create a masonry fireplace in Chief Architect? objects 623 How to group-select objectsI have selected a number of objects in my drawing using the Shift+click method, and all are now highlighted. How do I de-select just one of these objects, while leaving the remainder of them selected? objects 819 A message states that an object overlaps or crosses itself.I am getting the following error in my plan and I don't understand what it means.-272032148 This overlaps or crosses itself. It may not look correct in 3D. Filled objects may also draw incorrectly in 2D.
objects 821 A message is telling me that I have dimensioned to cross section lines.I am getting the following message when I dimension in cross sections. What does this mean?-272010057 You have dimensioned to cross section lines. Point markers will be used to mark these locations. If your model changes these markers may not be in the correct location to provide an accurate dimension and will need to be maintained manually.
objects 822 I am getting an error while centering a door or window in a wall.When I try to center an object like a door or window on a wall, various messages display, telling me that centering will not be done. How do I avoid this problem?
-272032203 Ambiguous location for centering along a room edge, centering will not be done. Please click near the wall that defines the edge of the room you wish to center along.
-272032204 Items belonging to a wall can only be centered along a room edge that is parallel to the item's wall.
-272032205 When centering along the edge of a room, you need to click on one or the other side of the wall that defines the room edge. No centering will be done.
objects 829 A message states that an area is too constricted to position an item.Sometimes, when I try to place an object into my plan, I see one of the following messages:
Area too constricted, could not position fixture or furniture item here.
Area too constricted, could not create new cabinet module.
Area too constricted, could not position an architectural block here.
Area too constricted, could not position a corner cabinet here. operating system 610 How to reset my mouse pointer to be precision crosshairsWhen drawing in Chief Architect, I am used to my mouse pointer being a precision crosshairs. It is instead displaying as a regular pointer or a text cursor. What do I need to do to get the crosshairs back? outlets 493 How to place a 110V GFCI outlet in a room other than bathroomI would like to add a 110V GFCI my bedroom, but the Auto Place Outlets tool only places standard 110V outlets in this room type. How can I add a 110V GFCI outlet to my bedroom? ovals 604 How to draw an ovalWhen I click on the Oval tool and then click and drag to create an oval, it looks like a circle. How do I draw an oval? patterns 383 I do not see patterns in my vector viewsI cannot see any patterns in my vector camera views and overviews. How can I solve this problem? pictures 254 How to hang a painting or picture on a wallHow do I add a painting or photograph to a wall in my plan?
254_figure1.jpg
piers 478 How can I place a wall light away from a wall?I am attempting to add a light to a piling in a pier that I am designing; however, when I do, Chief Architect produces an error message stating that lights can only be added to a wall. How do I add lights to a piling when Chief will only allow me to add them to a wall? plans 12 How can I duplicate a floor plan on another level?I designed a floor plan, complete with fixtures, that must be duplicated on multiple levels of my project. What is the best way to do this? plans 244 How to send a picture of a floor plan to someone who does not have Chief ArchitectHow do I send a picture of the floor plan to my customer who does not have Chief Architect? plans 284 How to make a mirror image of a planI am working on a duplex and I have created the first unit. Rather than redraw the whole thing, I would now like to copy this unit and make a mirror image of it. How can I do this? plans 344 How can I design a subdivision or small town using Chief Architect?On many occasions I have used Chief Architect to construct a single building. However, now I would like to create a subdivision. How do I accomplish this? plans 424 How to measure a plan's square footageIn my area, the square footage of a structure is measured from the exterior of a wall rather than from the floor platform. How do I obtain the square footage, measured from the exterior of the wall, using Chief Architect? plans 463 How to create a style templateI have a number of different architectural design styles that I often use and would rather not have to set up my default settings every time I begin a new plan that will use one of these styles. How can I do this work once and save it for future use? plans 575 How do I create a plot plan?I would like to know how to create a plot plan in Chief Architect. How is this accomplished?
plans 581 How do I send my plan files to another Chief user?I need to e-mail my plan files to another Chief Architect or Home Designer software user. What is the proper way to do this? plans 605 How to place a cabinet fixture in a planWhile adding a dishwasher, trash compactor, and other fixtures to my plan, a message tells me that this fixture/appliance must be placed into a cabinet. plans 619 How to build an 'L' shaped structure with full gable endsHow do I create an 'L' shaped structure with three full gable ends automatically? plans 659 Can I rotate the Snap and Reference Grids?When I start Chief Architect, I can see a grid. Is it possible to rotate this grid? plans 678 How can I track the amount of time I spend on a project?I would like an accurate method by which I can track the amount of time I dedicate to a particular project or assignment. How can I do this? plans 691 How can I make sure a plan that I am printing fits on the page?How can I make sure a plan that I am printing fits on the page? plans 740 Using the plan database tool in Chief ArchitectHow can I use the Plan Database tool in Chief Architect to quickly find plans that I have created? printing 233 How to print in grey scaleI am trying to print a wall detail that has a grey fill color. When I print it, it comes out solid black. How do I get the grey fill to show up, or at least get the solid black to go away? printing 538 How are the Architectural and ANSI paper sizes different?I would like to know the differences between and Architectural and ANSI paper sizes. Could you list the two of these for me? printing 705 How to use the new line weight scaling optionsI would like to understand how the Line Weight Scale and line weight scaling options work. What do these do and how can I best implement them? printing 651 How do I choose the scale I am printing to?When I select File> Print> Print, the print scale is set at 1/4" = 1'. I would like the scale to be something different - possibly 1/8" = 1'. How do I change the scale in the Print dialog when the field is not accessible? printing 768 How to print to a PDF documentI need to create a PDF document to send to my print shop or client. problems 250 My Logitech mouse is behaving erratically in Chief Architect.I am using a Logitech mouse in Windows 2000 and Windows XP and I get erratic behavior while moving my mouse in Chief Architect. Why is this and what can I do about it? problems 828 A message states that a roof overhang may intrude too far into a wall on a floor in my planI keep seeing the following error message in one of my plans. What does it mean? A roof overhang may intrude too far into a wall on floor 1.
profiles 333 How to restore the default template planWhen I open a new plan up I have a drawing that appears on it. How can I open up to a blank new plan every time instead?
railings 833 How to position a railing directly above another on a tiered deckI am creating a deck with different levels on a single floor of my plan and would like to position the deck railing of a lower tier directly below that of a higher tier. How can I do this? ramps 402 How do I build a wheelchair ramp with hand rails and a landing?I need to design wheelchair access to my building. How do I model a wheelchair ramp? ramps 762 How to create a wheelchair ramp with a specific slopeI need to create a wheelchair ramp that has railings along both sides
762-Figure1.jpg
raytraces 339 I want to raytrace an image that is very large, maybe even the size of a billboard. How do I raytrace an image that big in Chief Architect?When I attempt to resize an image I have raytraced in Chief Architect using Adobe Photoshop it says I am working with a 72 Dots Per Inch, or DPI image. As I enlarge my picture, it just seems to get grainy. How do I make a really big image that is not grainy? rendering 654 My 3D views take a longer time to generate than they used to. Why is this?I added a number of custom Arcways balusters to my model, but now my 3D views seem to take longer to generate. Why is this? roads 714 When I open a new drawing and attempt to add a road, my road tool is greyed out, and not usable.Whenever I open a new drawing and begin to work, all of the terrain tools, including the road tools, are not accessible - they are greyed out. Why is this and how do I remedy the situation? roofs 45 How to change the pitch of a single automatic roof planeMost of my roof has an 8:12 pitch, but the shed roof over the porch has a pitch that is only 3:12. What do I need to do to automatically build a roof with more than one pitch?
045_figure2.jpg
roofs 218 Why are there roof pitch indicators on my perimeter walls?In my floor plan, I see either the roof pitch above or the phrase "vert-G" centered on each exterior wall. What is this? roofs 235 How to create manual roof returnsHow do I create a roof return, or eyebrow, using the manual roof tools?
235_figure11.jpg
roofs 441 How to create hip and gable roofs manuallyHow can I create hip and gable roofs using the manual roof tools?
441-Figure17.jpg
roofs 449 How to build a manual dormerHow can I create a dormer using manual roof editing tools? roofs 543 What is a roof baseline polyline?I am working to create a roof for my structure, and in the Roof Plane Specification dialog I see checkboxes referring to Roof Baseline Polylines. What is a roof baseline polyline and how do I use it? roofs 634 What is the fastest way to raise or lower a roof plane?I would like to change the height of one of the roof planes in my model. How do I accomplish this? roofs 647 How to create automatic roof returnsI would like to add an eyebrow, or roof return, to a specific wall on my plan. What is the easiest way to do this? roofs 648 How to create an automatic dormerHow do I use the Auto Dormer and Auto Floating Dormer tools?
648_figure1.jpg
roofs 649 How do I create a curved, or barrel, roof?I would like to quickly create a curved, or barrel, roof on my structure. How can I accomplish this? roofs 653 How can I build a roof directly on top of my first floor walls when I have a two story structure?I have a two-story salt box house plan. I would like to place the roof of my structure on floor one and have it ignore floor two. Is there a simple way to accomplish this? roofs 688 How do I join curved roof planes?I tried to create a barrel roof using two roof planes, but I am having trouble joining them to form a smooth curve. What is the best way to accomplish this? roofs 675 How to specify a gutter for my roofHow do I apply a gutter profile to the roof in my plan?
675_figure1.jpg
roofs 684 How do I join a barrel roof to a flat roof plane?I would like to join a barrel roof to a flat gable roof. How is this accomplished? roofs 758 How to create automatic hip and gable roofsHow do I build hip and gable roofs automatically? roofs 831 A message states that the program cannot move a roof edge to another without making one of its adjacent edges zero length or reversing it. I am trying to join roof planes and keep encountering the following message:
Cannot move one of the roof edges without making one of its adjacent edges zero length or reversing it. Try moving the roof edges manually closer to where you think they should meet before joining them. You may need to add or remove an edge to/from a roof plane. rooms 49 How to specify the depth of floor joistsHow do I set the joist depth for one particular room? rooms 248 Why is Floor Height A permanently set to zero in the Room Defaults?When I open the Floor 1 Defaults, the floor height is set to 0 and cannot be edited. Why is this?
rooms 454 How to create a solariumI would like to design a solarium. How can I do this? 454_figure1.jpg
rooms 655 How to add wallpaper to a roomWhat are my options for applying wallpaper in a room?
655_figure4.jpg
rooms 660 How to create a custom walk-in closetMy clients would like a walk-in closet with custom, built-in storage in their master suite. How can I design a custom closet?
660_figure1.jpg
rooms 699 How can I create a room with a sloped floor, like in a movie theater?I would like to create a building that has a movie theater style floor - one that is a ramp. I cannot find a setting to create this kind of a floor automatically - how can I create a ramp floor? rooms 859 How to create a structure with no floor platformMy latest project calls for a basic storage building with a dirt floor. How can I create a building on posts with footings and no floor platform?859_figure1.jpg
schedules 626 How how to edit window and door labels and schedulesI would like to create custom labels for doors and windows in my plan and would also like the information in those labels to be included in my Door and Window Schedules. How is this accomplished? security 202 How to deactivate a password prior to uninstalling Chief ArchitectPrior to installing a password protected version of Chief Architect on a different computer, the password must be deactivated for the current installation. security 251 How to install, activate, and deactivate a password version of Chief Architect I am attempting to install and activate my password version of Chief Architect. What procedure should I use to complete this process? Also, what do I need to do before migrating from one computer to another? settings 519 How to increase the number of available UndosI would like to be able to have more undos available. Is there a way to do this? settings 521 When I work in large plans, Chief Architect seems to slow down.I am working in a large plan and I notice that the program is working very slowly. Is there something that can be done to remedy this? settings 725 How to set your Page Setup to print from layoutI want to set up my printer so that I get good results when printing from layout. How is this done? settings 817 Why is the program moving my archive folder?I opened a file from a previous version in Chief Architect X1 and an Information message states that the archive folder for this file will be moved. Why is this? shutters 159 How to add shutters to windowsI would like to add shutters to my windows. How can I do this? siding 46 Why do my exterior walls display sheetrock instead of siding?In 3D views, some of my exterior walls display sheetrock instead of lap siding. I'm using the correct wall type and have not used the Material Painter. Why is this, and what can I do to correct it? slabs 341 How to create expansion joints in a sidewalkWhen I draw a sidewalk using the Sidewalk tool, it is created as a continuous slab. I would like to know how to create a sidewalk with expansion joints. stairs 168 How to specify the riser height and tread width of stairsI have been trying to create a set of stairs that have a specific riser height and a set tread width and I cannot seem to get exactly what I want. stairs 268 How to specify staircase heightIn the Staircase Specification dialog, I don't see any way to specify the height of the stairs. Why is this and what do I have to do to control the height of my staircase? stairs 407 How to make stairs begin and end exactly where I want them toMy stairs will not go where I want them. The automated features in the stairs are often helpful, but I am having trouble specifying the rise and run measurements that I need. How do I make the stairs begin and end exactly where I want them to? stairs 755 How to draw stairs down from a deck or porchI need to create stairs that go from my deck and porch down to the ground. How do I do this?
stairs 477 How to create curved or spiral staircases I would like to add curved stairs or add a spiral staircase to my plan. How can I do this? stairs 505 How to use the Flare/Curve Stairs toolHow do I create flared stairs and stairs with curved treads?
505_figure17.jpg
stairs 547 How to create stairs in sloping terrainMy plan calls for a set of stairs that cuts into sloping terrain to join two sidewalks, but when I draw stairs in my plan, they do not follow the terrain or join to my sidewalks. What should I do?547_figure1.jpg
stairs 596 How to create a room under a staircaseHow do I create a small room under a staircase in my plan?
596_figure1.jpg
stairs 597 How to create a T-shaped staircaseHow can I connect three staircases to form a T-shape? stairs 618 When placing curved stairs, I am not able to remain in the curved stair modeWhen I use the Curve to Left or Curve to Right stair tools and try to place more than one set of curved stairs, I cannot. I must return to the menu or toolbar and select the desired tool each time. Why is this? stairs 621 How to display objects below stairsI am creating a small room below a staircase. It will have a number of fixtures and furnishings in it, and I would like to be able to see these in floor plan view, through the stairs. How can I make the stairs transparent so that I can see the items that will be located below them? stairs 676 How to curve a straight staircaseI have drawn a set of straight stairs and would like to know how I can curve them. stairs 756 How to create a landing between two sets of stairsI would like to draw two staircases and connect them with a landing. How do I accomplish this? stairs 757 How to create a stairwellWhat is the best way to create a stairwell in the program? stairs 788 How to create mitered or wrap around stairsHow do I create mitered or wrap-around stairs on a deck?
788-figure1.jpg
stairs 846 How to use the Click Stairs toolI am trying to use the Click Stairs tool but keep getting an error message. How is this tool supposed to be used? switches 354 How do I prevent electrical switches from automatically converting to three-way switches?When I add two switches to my drawing, and then connect them to a single light, my switches convert automatically to three-way switches. How do I stop this automatic conversion process, so that I only have the two-way switches I started out with? symbols 81 How to add a custom 3D symbol to the Library BrowserI have a 3D symbol that I would like to import into Chief Architect and add to my library. How can I do this?
081_figure7.jpg
symbols 422 How to resize a symbol from the libraryI have placed a symbol in my Chief Architect drawing and would like to resize it. When I click on it, though, there are no resize edit handles and the Height, Width and Depth fields are greyed out and unavailable in the specification dialog. What do I need to do to resize this object? symbols 627 My imported .obj symbol's surfaces don't look rightI imported a 3D symbol from an .obj file and it doesn't look right. What did I do wrong? symbols 640 Where can I get free 3D symbols that I can use in Chief Architect? I would like to obtain some free 3DS, OBJ, DXF and DWG files to import into Chief Architect and use as 3D symbols in my plans. Where can I obtain these types of symbol files, free of charge? symbols 644 How do I move my OBJ files from one directory to another without losing any data?When I copy my .obj, or object, files from one location to another, what data needs to be included? symbols 805 How do I edit the 2D display of symbols from the library?I want to change the 2D display of a symbol from the library. How can I do this? symbols 809 How to convert an object into a symbolI have created a custom light fixture and would like to convert it into a symbol that I can save in the Electrical library. How do I do this? terrain 296 How to change the size of terrain elevation numbersHow can I increase the size of the elevation numbers on my terrain? terrain 321 How to match building and terrain heightsHow do I match height of my terrain with the height of my building? In some drawings, the structure seems to float above the terrain while in other plans, the building sinks into the terrain. terrain 324 How to convert a polyline into a terrain perimeterIn floor plan view, I have created a plot plan using the CAD tools. I would now like to convert this polyline into a terrain perimeter. How do I do this?
terrain 376 How to create a walk-out basementI am trying to create a walk-out basement on sloping terrain but am not able to get my terrain to expose the foundation walls. What do I need to do to create a walk-out basement?
376_figure1.jpg
terrain 574 How does Chief Architect interpret my terrain lines?I have noticed that sometimes when I place terrain elevation lines on my terrain that I get unexpected hills or valleys. terrain 590 Why can't I see the hills and valleys that I add to my terrain?I have added hills and valleys to my terrain and selected Terrain> Build Terrain from the menu, but no contour lines are created in these items and they're not visible in 3D. Why is this? terrain 591 How to delete objects from the terrainWhen I delete a terrain object such as a hill from my plan, it seems to remain in plan view and I cannot get rid of it. Why is that? terrain 592 How do I make terrain changes appear in my model?I have made a number of changes to the terrain in my plan, but the changes don't seem to apply. Why don't the changes that I made show in my plan? terrain 715 How can I smooth my terrain and control it precisely?When I add terrain points, lines and splines my terrain will often appear erratic; creating slopes, valleys and peaks in areas where I don't necessarily want them. How can I quickly smooth out my terrain and bring it under control? terrain 719 How to import terrain data from a dxf/dwg fileI have a .dwg file containing terrain data that I received from my engineer and want to import this data into Chief Architect. What steps are involved in doing this?
text 11 How to resize or change the font of door and window labelsMy door and window labels are too small when I print. How can I increase the size of the text and change the font to suit my needs? text 31 How to control the display of the Living Area labelIn my plan view, I would like to be able to turn the display of the Living Area label on and off as I am working. How do I do this? text 173 How to copy and paste text to and from Chief Architect and other Windows applications I have text in Chief Architect that I would like to copy into Microsoft Word, as well as text in Word that I would like to copy into Chief. How can I do this? text 183 How to adjust the font size of textHow to I change the size of the font used for my text? text 274 How to increase font thicknessHow can I make my text appear thicker, or heavier? text 285 My Living Area label has disappeared. How can I recover it?The label that displays my Living Area has disappeared. How can I restore its display?
text 526 What are the different methods for modifying letter and number sizes?I would like a comprehensive listing of all the ways in which text, letter and number sizes can be modified in Chief Architect. Please detail these for me. text 635 How can I check the spelling in my Chief Architect plans and layouts?I have added a great deal of text to my drawing file, and I am almost ready to create a layout file using Chief Architect. How do I check the spelling of my text in a drawing file or layout file? text 636 How do I align text?I would like a quick and easy way to line up text. How can this be accomplished? text 639 How do I create a text box with rounded corners?I would like to know how to round the corners of CAD objects like text boxes. I don't need to define a particular arc, or curve - I would just like a fast way to fillet corners. How can I do this? text 687 How do I show the room area and the room dimensions at the same time?I would like to see the room area and the room dimensions at the same time. How can this be done? text 663 How can I print the time and date automatically on my drawing and layout files?I would like to configure my plan and layout files to include the date and time of printing so that I can tell at a glance which is the most recent version. How can this be accomplished in Chief Architect 10.0? text 669 How do I add an arrow to my text?I would like to create text with arrows that point to objects in my drawing. How can I do this? text 679 The text in the Text Specification dialog box is too big or small to readThe text in the Text Specification dialog is simply too big or too small to edit effectively. How do I reduce or enlarge the text so that I can edit it? text 722 How do I select certain text items without selecting others?I am trying to select a number of text objects but I keep getting my room labels. How can I select certain text items without selecting other items? textures 803 Error: A surface is using a texture that cannot be found.I am getting the following error message:
.\source\ogltext.cpp(333): Warning #272029401"A surface is using a texture that can't be found:
Followed by a path to the location where the texture used to be. What does this mean and what can be done to solve the problem? toolbars 811 How to use the MEP toolbar configurationWhat is the MEP Configuration?811_figure5.jpg
toolbars 641 Tools and toolbars aren't working on one of my monitors. How do I resolve this?I have dual monitors, and cannot make the Chief Architect toolbars work on one of them. How can I make the toolbars work on both monitors? toolbars 770 How to create a custom toolbarI would like to create my own toolbar and control the buttons that display on it. How can I do this? toolbars 816 How to create a Color Palette toolbarI have noticed the Color Palette toolbars that can be used in Vector and Render views and would like to create my own Color Palettes. How can I do this? toolbars 820 How to create a custom toolbar configurationI have customized my toolbars and would like to save my customizations and possibly use them on a different computer. How can I do this? tools 238 How do I use the customizable hotkeys feature?I know that many Chief Architect tools have a keyboard shortcut, or hotkey, already associated with them, but I want to specify which hotkeys activate specific Chief Architect tools. How can I do that? tools 389 How to use the Fillet and Chamfer edit toolsWhen I click on a CAD polyline, I see the Fillet Two Lines and Chamfer Two Lines buttons on the edit toolbar. What do these edit tools do, and how can I use them. tools 661 What is the difference between the Snap Grid and the Reference Grid?I am working in Chief Architect X1 and have noticed that there are two types of grids available for my use - a snap grid and a reference grid. What are the differences between these two types of grids? tools 681 How do I get rid of the grey X's that keep appearing in my plan?Chief Architect automatically adds a number of grey X's to my plan. This happens on a regular basis, especially when I am performing tasks like editing roof planes or working with CAD objects. What are these X's and how do I get rid of them? tools 734 How to use the Point to Point Move toolI am creating a detail drawing and need a way to precisely place the different components. What is a fast and accurate way to do this?
tools 791 How to use the Screen Capture tool to create a backdrop, image, material or pictureWhat does the Screen Capture tool do and how do I use it? trusses 68 How to create scissor trussesHow do I create scissor trusses?
068_figure10.jpg
trusses 416 How create exposed trusses in a vaulted ceilingI would like to create trusses over a porch in my plan, but the program tells me it cannot be done. How can I build trusses over my porch as I have over the other rooms of my plan?
416_figure1.jpg
tutorials 469 How to access the electronic versions of the reference materialHow do I access the electronic versions of my Chief Architect User's Guide and Chief Architect Reference Manual? tutorials 800 Installing the X1 Videos to your hard driveI'd like to install the training videos to my hard drive so I dont have to insert the DVD each time I watch. tutorials 804 Accessing the Integrated Help and Training VideosWhen I look up a topic in the Chief Architect contextual help menu, I often see numerous links to training videos. How can I access these videos? units 24 How to change from metric to imperial unitsWhen I performed my installation, I specified Imperial (feet/inches). But when I start a new drawing, my walls and other objects are measured in metric units. How to I change back to imperial units? units 199 How to change the scale of a .dxf/.dwg file imported into ChiefI have a .dwg drawing that was drawn at a scale of 1" = 20', and when imported into Chief Architect it is the wrong size. How can I change the scale so it displays at the correct size? views 208 How do I find a camera view that does not appear on my plan?
I created and saved a camera view, but now that the view is closed, I do not see its symbol in floor plan view. views 631 How to use the Cross Section SliderHow do I create a dynamic sectional view of my structure that I can resize and change? walkthroughs 514 How to make a walkthrough movie composed of final view renderingsI would like to create a walkthrough, but I would like the movie to be composed of a Final View renderings, instead of previews. How do I do this? walls 41 Why do some of my exterior walls not display in 3D views?When generating a 3D overview of my plan, some of my walls do not display. They are not specified as invisible, so why can't I see them?
walls 64 How to create a pony wallHow do I create a pony wall? walls 281 How to create a pass-throughI would like to create a pass-through - an opening in a wall - such as between the kitchen and dining area in my plan. How can I do this? walls 286 How to create a niche in a wallHow do I create a recessed section in a wall, also known as a wall niche?286_Figure10.jpg
walls 295 How do I create a flat roof structure with parapet walls?How do I create a flat roof structure with three parapet walls? walls 332 How to align walls between floorsI have a multiple floor structure, and I would like to know how to align the walls of the structure from one floor to another and then check to make sure the alignment is satisfactory. walls 378 Why aren't my walls visible in 3D views?The walls in my model are visible in floor plan view and I can select them and open their specification dialog, but when I create floor camera or floor overviews, they are not visible. Why aren't my walls visible in these 3D views and how do I correct this? walls 418 How to control the inset depth of a window placed in a thick wallI am designing a plan with thick exterior walls and very deep windows as a result. How to I control where the frame and sash are inset within the window frame? walls 495 How to create walls with a block and tie beamI live in the Southeastern United States and regularly build CBS structures. How do I model a CBS wall that is block on the bottom and has a tie beam on top? walls 609 How to create an accent wallI would like to apply different materials to parts of the walls in my plan. How can I do this? walls 579 How do I change wall heights?From what I understand, if I want to alter the wall height of my structure, I must actually change the ceiling height. How is this accomplished? walls 607 How to change the height of an individual wallI would like to change the height of one wall in my plan to create a half wall. When I use the Room Specification dialog and adjust the ceiling height, all of my walls change in height. How do I adjust the height of just one wall? walls 646 How do I create a retaining wall?What is the easiest way that I can add a retaining wall to my terrain?646_figure1.jpg
walls 652 How do I change the height of a retaining wall? I would like to change the height of a retaining wall that I have in my plan. How is this done? walls 674 Why does my wall covering span multiple rooms?I have added wallpaper to one of my walls. The problem I am facing is that the wallpaper now appears in several rooms - not just the one that I added the wall covering to. How do I make the wall covering just appear in one room? walls 692 How do I draw a curved wall that is tangent to two straight walls.I would like to draw a curved wall that connects smoothly to two straight walls. How can this be done? walls 697 How do I create a stepped retaining wall?How do I create a retaining wall with a stepped top? walls 716 How to create a new wall typeHow do I create a new wall type? walls 763 How to create a completely circular wallI want to create a complete circle with a wall but every time I try, the entire thing disappears. walls 798 How to align wallsI need to join walls that have different layer thicknesses and would like to control how these walls align to one another. How can I do this? walls 801 How to create a railing under a dormer wing wallI have placed a dormer in my plan and would like to draw railings directly beneath its walls. How can I do this?801_figure6.jpg
windows 36 How do I create a trapezoid shaped window?I have looked in the library browser and cannot find a trapezoid-shaped window. How can I add a window of a shape, other than a square or rectangle, to my plan when these are not present in the library browser?
036_figure1.jpg
windows 508 How do I create a bay, bow or box window?I would like to create a bay, bow or box window. How can this be accomplished? windows 673 How to create corner windowsHow to I create a corner window unit?
Type keywords or a phrase below and choose the type of search you wish to make. Finding all key words will find any documents that have all the words you type. Finding any key words will find any documents that have one or more of the keywords you type. Find the exact phrase will search for documents that contain the exact text you type. You may also choose to search for a specific article number.
