Per customer request I will add in an LSL option for the framing very shortly:



I'm using the updated LSL texture I created for the Floor plugin, but I still feel like it is a bit dull or dark compared to my previous texture (OSB).  It could be a bit more vibrant or saturated.  I will need to spend some more time on this.

Weyerhaeuser sells their Timberstrand line of LSL framing and studs:

https://www.weyerhaeuser.com/woodproducts/engineered-lumber/timberstrand-lsl/timberstrand-lsl-framing-lumber/timberstrand-lsl-wall-framing-studs/

However, I would always worry about water damage.  What happens if the LSL gets wet?  We all know what happens to OSB, and plywood is a much more robust product in comparison.  Standard lumber seems like a much more resilient choice when it comes to potential water damage, but I could be wrong.

mdkBIM Tutorial 6 - Building a Ham Shack


My initial concept of the ultimate Ham Shack (16' x 12') designed in SketchUp using the Medeek extensions.

The model can be found here:

https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/embed/41926b8b-553f-4a06-a665-e16742919406?token=rwdGfAJloEo=&binaryName=s21

My call sign is KK7UXO, but I don't get on the radio much, mostly I'm programming. :slight_smile:

Version 4.0.7 - 07.20.2025
- Enabled the polyline draw mode for all wall justification options: Front, Center, Back, Sheathing.

Tutorial 72 - Wall Justification (7:16 min.)

Version 3.7.3 - 07.19.2025
- Enabled square cut rafter tails for gable rafter roofs.

Version 4.0.6 - 07.17.2025
- Fixed a bug with gable walls.
- Added the following Simpson Strong-Tie pre-assembled anchor bolts to the wall, column and shearwall modules: PAB4-12, PAB4-18, PAB4-24, PAB4-30, PAB4-36, PAB5-12, PAB5-18, PAB5-24, PAB5-30, PAB5-36, PAB9-12, PAB9-18, PAB9-24, PAB9-30, PAB9-36.

Version 4.0.5 - 07.16.2025
- Fixed a bug with quadruple end wall studs (applies to all wall types).
- Added the following Simpson Strong-Tie pre-assembled anchor bolts to the wall, column and shearwall modules: PAB6-12, PAB6-18, PAB6-24, PAB6-30, PAB6-36, PAB7-12, PAB7-18, PAB7-24, PAB7-30, PAB7-36, PAB8-12, PAB8-18, PAB8-24, PAB8-30, PAB8-36, PAB10-12, PAB10-18, PAB10-24, PAB10-30, PAB10-36.
- Added the HTTH6.5 holdown to the built-in holdown library.







Note, that these anchor bolts come in five different lengths (12, 18, 24, 30 and 36).  I did not add in the 1/2 and 5/8 dia. anchor bolts since this option is primarily chosen when a much larger anchor bolt is needed, but do let me know if you would like to see them added in.

Just playing catch up on a number of items after spending three or so weeks on the HVAC plugin.  Undoubtedly, I am spread a bit thin these days with six plugins now under active development.

Version 4.0.4c - 07.15.2025
- Added the following Simpson Strong-Tie holdowns to the wall, column and shearwall modules: HDUE3, HDUE5, HDUE7, HDUE9, HDUE13, HDUE17.





Looks like Simpson added this new replacement for the HDU holdown in May of this year.  I just noticed this morning so I added them in.


Note that these are low poly versions of the holdowns based directly off of the geometry provided on Simpson's website.

Version 4.0.4b - 07.14.2025
- Added springfield plates to the post base and post cap libraries (for 3.5" and 4.0" pipe).
- Added the following Simpson post caps to the post module: LLC35_35, LCC35_4, LCC45_35, LCC45_4, LCC525_35, LCC525_4, LCC6_35, LCC6_4, LCC7_35, LCC7_4.





If I'm going to add in this new "pipe" post then it stands to reason that I also add some appropriate bases and caps to match.

Version 4.0.4 - 07.13.2025
- Added the following steel post types to the post module: Round (HSS), Pipe (NPS).



I'm not sure why I never added a "pipe" option in before, I guess no one ever asked until now.

I will need to add more sizes but I now have the most commonly used sizes from 3" to 6" DIA.

After three weeks of non-stop coding I needed a break so I spent the day at the track (walking, I'm too old to run anymore) and then spent the evening digging up docs on Bryant furnaces. Surprisingly the dimensional data is quite accurate and thorough, here is the result:



Six actual models added, but really there are only three sizes (17.5, 21, 24).

I've been giving the calculations more thought and if I am able to incorporate that into the plugin then the BTUs, and other specs on these furnaces will also come in handy. I will probably need to create some sort of database or flat text file that has all the pertinent data on each furnace and the ability for the user to enter in custom furnaces and other appliances.

I always find that doing some low level modeling has an almost therapeutic effect. Maybe SketchUp is just such an fun to use and intuitive modeling environment, either way I find it to be a great way to relax and unwind.