Anyone use CAD software

[Smudger]

JUst wondering whether anyone uses Bath CAD or similar software when pricing jobs, did some work for someone who had a plan and the customer really liked it, and it made it pretty easy doing the job. Often customers have a hard job visualising or expressing what they want so I thought it may be a good idea, but they all seem pretty expensive. So what are everyones thoughts?

 

[kendo1]

Expensive.
I've heard that some bathroom suppliers offer the application for free if you stock their products - if you are a bathroom showroom.

 

[DHTiling]

I suppose it depends on how long you prepare to spend designing the job and then not get it ... would you charge to use the CAD , as it will be time consuming to do it..?

 

[Gazzer]

Its not CAD software but I do from time to time use a piece of software that enables me to load scaled drawings or even my own measurements from site. i can then enter tile size etc and Virtual tile the rooms.
In the past it has helped myself by lessening the setting out times on site as I have already tried various adaptions on the PC. It also can show the client the benefits of setting out one way over another.
Tiling a floor for instance, you can show Halfbond method 9 Both ways) Diagonal and straight etc all with the click of a button. Print it off and show the client.
Its not an essential item but useful at times.

 

[Rich]

No I dont but I suppose it is something that you could charge for? A design service, I know that some of my customers would love to see a pic of the room before I begin work but as has been said, it would be time consuming and I dont think I would take the time unless I was being paid to be honest.

 

[Smudger]

Very sound comments and advice from you all. Definitely couldn't charge for it, but I do think it could give an edge, the issue, I feel, as you have rightly pointed out, is one of time and cost. If you don't mind me asking Sir Ramic, what software is it you use? Because those are really the issues I see.

 

[Gazzer]

I use Precision Tile Pro

 

[Musivarius]

Not sure if it can be used for tiling but I had a customer buying tesserae from me and they run a very classy looking tile shop where they make up bepoke tile features. He showed me a very complex geometric design made up using glass and ceramic tiles and said that he used Google Sketch Up to create the design and it's a free programme.
I've downloaded it but not used it yet but it might be worth a look.

 

[Smudger]

I had a play witha free online package last night. (www.mydeco.com) produced a decent picture and good for visualisation but very limited in types of finish and appliances. Going to have a look at BathCAD but a bit expensive to be honest. As I've strated doing Tadelakt as well, I like that I can input my own jpg. images of different finishes & tile. I'll let you all know what its like.