In this course we'll demonstrate various methods of laying out hip and valley systems using SketchUp, a powerful and very user-friendly Computer-Aided Design CAD program perfect for modeling roofs. Students will work on their own computers to solve the timber intersections in a variety of complex roofs, enabling the student to simplify previously baffling carpentry problems through the use of this modern tool.

Students will learn to directly measure working angles and scale dimensions directly on their screen, which can then be transferred to the timbers. This course is valuable for all carpenters working in wood - not just heavy timbers. Intersections for conventional lumber roofs can also be determined, and the resulting 3-D model can aid communication between the client, carpenters and other trades.