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Cadimage Tools [FREE]

This is a complete guide to Cadimage Tools.

Note: As of recent years, Cadimage Tools have been rebranded and integrated into the Central Innovation ecosystem. While the tools are still widely referred to as "Cadimage," you will often find them under the "CI Tools" or "Central Innovation" label within modern ARCHICAD/Graphisoft interfaces.

4.1 RoofMaster (Advanced Roofing)

RoofMaster replaces Archicad’s standard roof tool for complex pitches, hips, valleys, and penetrations.

Steps:

  1. Select Cadimage > RoofMaster.
  2. Draw roof outline (polygon or pick walls).
  3. Set pitch, overhang, fascia, and rafter depth in settings.
  4. Add openings – drag skylights, chimneys, or pipes.
  5. Generate trusses/rafters automatically (Framing tab).
  6. Use Adjust Intersections to fix valleys automatically.

Pro tip: Use Roof Settings > Construction to switch between rafter and truss display.

Cadimage Tools: Redefining Architectural Workflow Within ArchiCAD

In the competitive world of Building Information Modeling (BIM), efficiency and precision are paramount. While Graphisoft’s ArchiCAD provides a robust core platform, many professionals find that complex, repetitive tasks—such as detailing roofs, stairs, or doors—can slow down the design process. This is where Cadimage Tools enters the scene.

Cadimage is a suite of specialized, native ArchiCAD add-ons designed to fill the functional gaps left by the out-of-the-box software. Developed by a team of architects for architects, Cadimage does not operate as a standalone program but rather integrates seamlessly into the ArchiCAD environment, acting as a powerful extension of the native toolbox.

2. The Door & Window System

This is arguably the most celebrated Cadimage module. It offers an exhaustive library of highly parametric joinery that goes far beyond simple rectangles.

Next Steps

  1. Visit the official Cadimage website (via Graphisoft Marketplace).
  2. Download the 30-day free trial.
  3. Watch the "Getting Started" webinar.
  4. Test the Stair and Roof tools on your current project.

Once you integrate Cadimage into your workflow, you will wonder how you ever survived without it.

Disclaimer: Prices and features mentioned are based on market standards at the time of writing. Always check the official Graphisoft Marketplace for current Cadimage Tools pricing and ArchiCAD version compatibility.

Cadimage Tools (now often branded as Ci Tools) are a popular suite of specialized plugins designed to extend the core capabilities of Archicad, a leading Building Information Modeling (BIM) software. These tools are developed to streamline architectural workflows, offering advanced automation for complex building elements that might otherwise require tedious manual modeling. Overview of Core Features

The primary value of Cadimage Tools lies in their ability to provide highly customizable, parametric objects and automated modeling functions within the Archicad environment. Key components of the suite include: cadimage tools

Doors & Windows: Offers extensive customization for openings, allowing architects to design complex schedules and custom frame types more easily than with standard library parts.

Cabinets: Simplifies interior design by providing tools to create precise, detailed kitchen and bathroom layouts with flexible parametric controls.

Coverings: Enables the rapid application of realistic exterior and interior finishes—such as weatherboards, cladding, and shingles—to walls, roofs, and slabs.

Stairs & Railings: Provides advanced tools for modeling complex vertical circulation elements that integrate seamlessly with the project's structural components.

Keynotes: A powerful documentation tool that automates the process of adding descriptive notes and specifications to drawings, ensuring consistency across a set of plans. Installation and Workflow Integration

Cadimage Tools are version-specific, meaning users must install the version that matches their specific Archicad release (e.g., Archicad 27 requires the corresponding Ci Tools 27). The installation process typically involves: Installing the Cadimage Tools

Cadimage Tools, now commonly known as , are a suite of productivity add-ons designed specifically for

. They extend the native functionality of the software to help architects and designers model more complex elements faster and with greater detail. Core Tools and Functionality

These add-ons target specific architectural elements that often require tedious manual work in standard Archicad: Doors + Windows

: Provides much deeper customization than standard Archicad libraries, allowing you to create complex frames, panels, and opening types. : A powerful tool for applying claddings, such as ribbed metal roofing

or wall sidings, directly onto 3D surfaces with realistic details. This is a complete guide to Cadimage Tools

: Enables easy design of custom kitchen and bathroom cabinetry with accurate handle, drawer, and panel settings

: Automates the annotation process by linking a database of notes directly to elements in the model, reducing manual entry errors. Electrical

: Simplifies the placement of electrical symbols and automatically generates schedules for them.

: Allows you to rotate, bend, and manipulate any Archicad object in 3D space, which is particularly useful for complex framing or custom furniture. Key Considerations for Users

What is happening with Cadimage Tools? - Graphisoft Community

Cadimage Tools (now rebranded as ) are a popular suite of add-ons for

, designed to streamline architectural workflows by automating complex modeling and documentation tasks. Originally developed by Cadimage Group in New Zealand, the suite is currently managed and developed by Central Innovation Core Tools and Functions

The suite consists of several specialized tools that extend Archicad's native capabilities: Doors + Windows

: Perhaps the most widely used tool, it allows for the creation of highly customized door and window assemblies that go beyond standard library parts.

: Automates the application of wall cladding, roof finishes, and slab edges, providing detailed 3D representations and accurate scheduling.

: Offers a dynamic system for designing and placing cabinetry, with easy adjustments for styles, handles, and internal configurations. Electrical Select Cadimage > RoofMaster

: Simplifies the placement of electrical symbols and the creation of dynamic, linked circuits that can be exported as schedules.

: A tool for manipulating objects in 3D, allowing for rotations and cuttings that are otherwise difficult within standard Archicad. Key Benefits Increased Efficiency

: Tasks that require manual "workarounds" in standard Archicad—like detailed framing or complex roof coverings—can often be completed in a fraction of the time. Enhanced Documentation

: The tools are built to improve scheduling and 2D representation, ensuring that the model data translates accurately to construction documents. Subscription Flexibility : The tools are typically offered on a subscription basis

, which allows users to scale their toolset according to project needs. Industry Perspective

While many users find them indispensable for professional production, there are ongoing discussions in the Graphisoft Community regarding their long-term necessity: Native Features

: As Archicad evolves, some features (like the Stair Tool) have been improved to the point where 3rd-party add-ons may feel redundant.

: Some users prefer sticking to native tools to avoid potential version-compatibility issues during major software upgrades. native tools

cadimage / cigraph - user experiences? - Graphisoft Community 27 Mar 2017 —

3. Roof & Skylight Tools

Roof detailing can be a nightmare for documentation. Cadimage Tools simplifies this with parametric rafters, fascia, gutters, and battens.

8. Migration to Graphisoft Paragon (2021+)

Graphisoft now bundles Paragon as a subscription add‑on, which includes:

If you are a legacy Cadimage user: