The 8 Best Floor Plan Software Tools for Builders
Looking for the perfect way to create accurate floor plans that meet building standards? Don't worry! We've tested and created this list so you can find your match.
Article Summary:
RoomSketcher tops the list for builders with its flexible drawing options, professional 2D and 3D Floor Plans, and interactive Live 3D walkthroughs. Cedreo follows as a strong choice for builders who prioritize polished 3D client presentations, while SketchUp earns third place for its powerful 3D modeling, best suited to custom projects.
We've tried and tested eight floor plan software tools for builders to make a considered top eight list for you to choose from when deciding which to go with. With the right software, you can easily adjust building plans and explore design options before construction begins.
Why Use a Floor Plan for Your Building Projects?
Floor plan software helps builders plan with precision and communicate ideas clearly. You can create accurate 2D and 3D layouts before construction starts, test different options, and calculate measurements to avoid costly mistakes on-site.
Digital floor plans help you move beyond paper sketches, keep clients in the loop, and coordinate smoothly with subcontractors. With tools like total area calculations, Live 3D walkthroughs, and multi-level plans, everyone gets a clear view of the project from day one.
How Do Builders Use Floor Plan Software?
Builders use floor plan software to plan projects, cut down on errors, and present ideas clients can instantly understand. With the right tools you can:
- Create accurate 2D Floor Plans that meet building standards and show precise measurements
- Generate 3D Floor Plans to show layouts with realistic finishes and materials
- Walk through designs in Live 3D to review plans interactively with clients
- Order redraws from blueprints for professional, editable plans delivered fast
- Add company branding for a polished, professional presentation
Top 8 Floor Plan Software Tools for Builders
1. RoomSketcher
RoomSketcher is the all-in-one floor plan software builders rely on. It combines professional 2D and 3D Floor Plans, detailed measurement tools, and powerful customization. Whether you're planning a new build or working with existing property, you can draw, import, or order floor plans and receive editable results the next business day.
You can customize materials, furniture, and finishes, add your company branding, and generate high-quality visuals in minutes. With offline access and automatic project syncing, you can work seamlessly from the office, job site, or anywhere in between.
Standout features:
- Download and print to scale
- Accurate 2D and 3D Floor Plans
- Measurement Wizard and Total Area Calculator (GLA, GIA, TLA)
- Order redraws for editable plans in 24 hours
- Interactive Live 3D and 360 Views
- Extensive furniture library and materials
- Offline access with cloud sync
- Custom branding and templates
“Working with RoomSketcher is fantastic. We sell houses, and use the RoomSketcher App in customer meetings to plan the house with them. It’s very easy to use and a quick tool for our customers to make the changes they want in their new home. The fact that our customers can see the house even before it’s built gives us a great advantage compared to our competitors.”
Tommy Nyborg
Head of Sales Norway, Fiskarhedenvillan
2. Cedreo
Cedreo is geared toward builders and remodelers who want 3D presentations for clients. It's a browser-based tool with strong visualization options, including home exteriors and interiors. While it doesn't include redraw services or tablet access, it's a solid choice if 3D presentations are your top priority.
Pros:
- Good 3D visuals for presentations
- Tailored for builders and remodelers
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- No redraw services
Read our full Cedreo review.
3. SketchUp
SketchUp is a powerful 3D modeling platform popular with architects and builders for custom design projects. It's very flexible, but drawing floor plans requires more manual effort compared to dedicated tools. Builders can expand its capabilities with plugins, though this often adds cost and complexity.
Pros:
- Ideal for complex 3D modeling
- Large object and plugin library
Cons:
- Time-consuming for simple floor plans
- Requires plugins for polished visuals
Read our full SketchUp review.
4. PlanUp
PlanUp is designed for UK real estate and survey professionals. It's quick for simple floor plans and energy reports, making it useful for builder who need compliance documents. However, its 3D visuals are basic and customization options are minimal.
Pros:
- Quick room-by-room editor
- Suited for property surveys
Cons:
- Limited customization
- 3D visuals have fixed viewing angles
Read our full PlanUp review.
5. CubiCasa
CubiCasa specializes in generating floor plans from scans of existing properties. For builders, this is helpful when documenting older homes or renovation projects. But since editing is limited, it's less useful for new construction planning.
Pros:
- Fast mobile scans (5 minutes or less)
- Clean 2D and 3D outputs
Cons:
- Limited editing and customization
- Dependent on scanning existing properties
Read our full CubiCasa review.
6. magicplan
magicplan is another scan-based tool. It's mobile-first, using AR and LiDAR to capture rooms and create simple floor plans. It's useful for quick site visits and basic documentation, but it's not designed for detailed customization or high-quality visuals that builders often need for presentations.
Pros:
- Quick on-site scans
- Built-in estimating and reporting tools
Cons:
- Limited design and visualization options
- Editing is restricted to mobile devices
Read our full magicplan review.
7. SmartDraw
SmartDraw is mainly a diagramming tool, but it also includes floor plan templates. Builders can use it for simple 2D layouts, especially if they already use it for charts and diagrams. However, it doesn't support 3D visuals or advanced building tools, so it's limited compared to dedicated floor plan software.
Pros:
- Good for simple 2D diagrams
- Responsive customer support
Cons:
- No option to create 3D visuals
- Editing is online only
Read our full SmartDraw review.
8. Planner 5D
Planner 5D is a home design tool that appeals to DIYers. Builders may find it lacking for professional use since measurements and customization are limited. It's fun to explore ideas, but not robust enough for construction-level planning.
Pros:
- User-friendly for DIY projects
- Wide furniture library
Cons:
- May lag on desktop
- Limited measurements and export formats
Read our full Planner 5D review.
Final Word
For builders who need accurate, customizable, and professional floor plans, RoomSketcher is the clear #1 choice. It combines precision tools, redraw services, and stunning 3D visuals in one easy-to-use platform.
Get Started with RoomSketcher Today
If you're looking for an easy-to-use floor plan tool that doesn't sacrifice power or professional features, RoomSketcher is the perfect fit.
But don't just take our word for it. Create an account today and explore the features yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For builders who need accurate, customizable, and professional floor plans, RoomSketcher is the clear #1 choice. It combines precision tools, redraw services, and stunning 3D visuals in one easy-to-use platform.
Compact and open one-story builds are the most cost-effective during construction and use. This is due to fewer materials used and shorter plumbing and electrical systems with ductwork, piping, and wiring. Smaller and more compact buildings mean lower construction and maintenance costs.
Builders should look for 2D and 3D design tools, a large furniture and symbols library, export formats, and realistic visualization options such as Live 3D walkthroughs and 360 Views for client presentations.
Recommended Reads
Cedreo vs. RoomSketcher
Cedreo vs. RoomSketcher - which floor plan software is right for you? Check out our deep-dive comparison now.
SketchUp vs. RoomSketcher
Choosing between SketchUp and RoomSketcher for your floor plan needs? This article will help you decide which one is best for you.
PlanUp vs. RoomSketcher
Choosing between PlanUp and RoomSketcher for your floor plan needs? This article will help you decide.