How do I export a floor plan from SketchUp?

To export a floor plan from SketchUp, you typically prepare a 2D view of your model and then use the export function to save it in a desired format like DWG or DXF, commonly used for CAD applications.

Exporting a 2D floor plan involves setting up your model's view correctly within SketchUp and then following specific export steps. While SketchUp is a 3D modeling tool, you can create and export 2D representations suitable for floor plans.

Preparing Your Floor Plan View in SketchUp

Before exporting, ensure your SketchUp model view is set up as a standard 2D floor plan:

1. Set Camera to Parallel Projection: This removes perspective distortion, making lines parallel and true to scale in the view. Go to Camera > Parallel Projection.
2. Choose Top View: Select the top standard view. Go to Camera > Standard Views > Top.
3. Create a Scene (Optional but Recommended): Save this view setup as a scene (View > Animation > Add Scene). This allows you to quickly return to this specific floor plan view.
4. Hide Unnecessary Layers/Objects: Turn off layers or hide elements that are not part of the floor plan (e.g., roof, furniture you don't want on the plan, exterior walls if focusing on interiors).

Exporting the Floor Plan as DWG/DXF

Once your view is prepared, you can export it. The process for exporting to formats like DWG or DXF, often used for floor plans in CAD software, is straightforward:

1. From the menu bar, select File > Export > 3D Model. (Note: While the reference mentions File > Export > DWG/DXF, the specific menu path often leads to the 3D Model or 2D Graphic export options where you select the format).
2. In the export dialog that appears, navigate to the location where you want to save the file.
3. In the File Name box, type a name for the file.
4. In the Save As Type drop-down list, select DWG or DXF.
5. Click the Save button.

Selecting DWG or DXF in the export dialog allows you to save your SketchUp geometry in a format compatible with CAD software.

Key Export Options (Check the Options button before saving):

• AutoCAD Version: Choose a compatible version for your CAD software.
• Export Settings: Options vary depending on whether you export a 2D graphic or a 3D model view.
  • 2D Graphic Export (if available for DWG/DXF): Often exports lines and faces as they appear in the current view. Layers might be preserved.
  • 3D Model Export (for DWG/DXF): Exports the 3D geometry. When exporting a 2D view, SketchUp attempts to flatten the geometry to 2D lines and faces. Ensure the 'Full Scale' option is selected if available and desired.

Table: Export Process Summary

Step	Action	Menu Path / Location
Preparation (in SketchUp)	Set Camera to Parallel Projection	Camera > Parallel Projection
	Select Top View	Camera > Standard Views > Top
Export	Initiate Export	File > Export > 3D Model
	Navigate to Save Location	Standard file browser dialog
	Enter File Name	File Name box
	Select File Type (using reference steps)	Save As Type drop-down (DWG/DXF)
	Save File	Save button
Optional	Review Export Options	Options button in export dialog

Exporting to DWG or DXF is a common way to share your floor plan design with consultants, clients, or for further detailing in CAD programs.