The majority of timber frame in UK and in Ireland is factory produced and in panelised form. Plans are normally drawn conforming to a modular grid of 600mm (approx. 24") or 400mm (approx. 16"). Panel widths are sized to be easily manhandled and vary in width to take into account openings whilst sticking to the discipline of the chosen stud spacing grid. This ensures that the whole framed structure suits sheet materials and economy. SoftPlan is used to prepare all our panel drawings and material cutting lists with the generated precision of 1mm. We draw the floor plans in the normal way using the selected wall type with the stud spacing preset. We then edit the corners to align the studs with the grid and with those in the opposite wall. The openings are placed as required and then we start the process of breaking the continuous walls in the following manner. A line is drawn perpendicular to the wall close to the preferred break point. Dimension this line from the wall end or from the preceding wall join. Break the wall to leave the newly dimensioned line within the break. Use extend to bring the wall ends to the line. This may seem tedious but it gives the precision necessary for pre-assembly and is quite easy once you get the hang of it. The individual wall panels can then be given an ID prior to generating the panel layout. Softlist can then do its stuff. Tom

© Copyright 2004 by SPLASH

Top of Page