SKP File Extension

What is SKP file?

File with SKP extension contains 3D model or element of such model. This file format is native to SketchUP software tool. SKP is a proprietary binary format, and as such its documentation was never released to the public. However, SKP libraries are available to the public. Each model stored in SKP file holds information about:

• Points,
• Edges and edge effects,
• Shading,
• Textures.

SKP files can be used as file containers to store separate models as components of a larger project. SketchUP was developed by @Last Software in 2000. The company was then bought by Google in 2006. SketchUP was conceived as a general-purpose 3D modeling software application for commercial use, but it soon was embraced by professionals working in the fields of architecture, interior design, engineering, or game development. SKP models can be used by Google Earth application, thanks to Google engineers. Since 2012 SketchUP belongs to Trimble Inc. Various SketchUP editions include:

• Pro – version for professional users that offers additional functions and plugins, including option to store projects in various 3D formats,
• Shop – web-based version for creators of real-life projects,
• Free – free web version available since the end of 2017; limited functionality,
• Make – released in 2017 as a free desktop version.

SKP file stucture depends on what application was it generated with. Creating, viewing, and editing of SKP files is available through SketchUP C API library and tool called SketchUP Importer/Exporter. Files that contains backup copy of SKP project use the SKB extension. SketchUP developer also released a 3D project library Warehouse 3D, where users can share their designs.

Programs which support SKP file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open SKP files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with SKP suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 11/18/2023

How to open file with SKP extension?

Being unable to open files with SKP extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with SKP extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install SketchUp

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports SKP files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing SketchUp or different compatible program, such as TurboCAD. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support SKP files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading SketchUp installed is by going to developer’s website (Trimble Navigation Limited) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update SketchUp to the latest version

If the problems with opening SKP files still occur even after installing SketchUp, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of SketchUp is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why SKP files are not compatible with SketchUp. The most recent version of SketchUp is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign SketchUp to SKP files

After installing SketchUp (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open SKP files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the SKP file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where SketchUp is installed, check the Always use this app to open SKP files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected SKP file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with SKP extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the SKP file is complete and free of errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper SKP file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Verify that the SKP in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the SKP is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the SKP file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with SKP extension is complete and error-free

If the SKP file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. When downloading the file with SKP extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open SketchUp

If the systems has insufficient resources to open SKP files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with SketchUp Document files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with SKP files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

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