Existing CAD programs can mathematically produce a complete list of building materials, as well as an itemized parts list of individual measures for each and every framing component as
specified by the blueprints, yet the modern day builder is still crawling around on wet subfloors with ragged blueprints, deciphering, measuring, and scribbling the framing layout onto
the wall plates in much the same way all carpenters have done for, and since, all of time.
CAL simply takes CAD to the next level by teaching it to display and print the framing layout for each wall, with all measures and details matching the blueprints, onto a cheap roll of
tape for substantial increases in framing crew production and quality, with wall framing made easy for the do-it-yourself home builder. Cal can be incorporated into both residential and
commercial building processes, and can also be used to display floor and ceiling joists, rafters and trusses, as well as the routing and placement of electrical, plumbing, HVAC, telecom,
and security system components.
The CAL tape should be approximately 2 1/4" wide, allowing for at least 1" coverage of both upper and lower wall plates when placed together on edge, with about 1/4" center spacing for
separation of plates with a utility knife when ready to frame. The tape itself can be as common and inexpensive as cash register tape and attached to the wall plates with staples, tacks,
nails, or an applied adhesive, with more durable, weather resistant, and self-adhesive materials as an option. Color coding for quick identification and differation of components,
doorways, and windows is also an option.
Probably the best printing solution would be for the CAL company to engage the contracted services of a commercial printing company, charged with printing, packaging, and shipping of the
CAL / Computer Automated Layout tape, materials package list, and itemized parts list, to the builder as specified through a previous agreement and pricing arrangement. In this way, the
architect can offer an additional and complete new service, with a variety of materials and color coding options for the tape, with no special equipment or additional time involved other
than an order placed, and a file uploaded to a prearranged printing and packaging service.
CAL takes CAD to the next level.
* Completely eliminates the time necessitated to interpret blueprints, calculate measurements, and transfer the framing layout to the wall plates, as is the current and traditional method
for attaining the wall framing layout.
* Allows crew leaders time to oversee the wall framing process and concentrate on upcoming matters, as opposed to being rushed to interpret and transfer the wall framing layout to the
wall plates ahead of the framing crew.
* Provides a complete pre-calculated parts list, per wall and placement, for the sawman to start producing parts immediately, on or off the jobsite.
* Provides a framing template which eliminates all guess work and induces error free construction by the journeyman, apprentice, or do-it-yourself home builder.
* Serves as an unsupervised training aid and provides answers to most every conceivable question the apprentice may have, without asking.
* Reduces the experience levels necessary for all framing crew members at all levels.
* Enables supervisors to easily dictate which walls are to be framed by who, and in what order, by issuance of the CAL tape.
* Makes for easy prefabrication of common walls, gable walls, dormers, etc., on or off site.
"Born of necessity and designed by experience,
driven by production and controlled through quality."
CAL takes CAD to the next level.