Brush Tool Guide
The Brush Tool is Project Zomboid's powerful creative building system that enables administrators to instantly place tiles, furniture, and structures with a single click. This tool transforms your server management experience, allowing for rapid base construction, landscape modification, and creative building without the constraints of regular gameplay.
Prerequisites
Before accessing the Brush Tool, ensure you have:
- Admin Status: Server administrator privileges
- Access Level: Admin or moderator permissions
- Server Access: Ability to execute admin commands
- Understanding: Basic knowledge of server management
Step-by-Step Setup
Step 1: Grant Admin Privileges
- Access your server's Console or command interface
- Type the admin command:
setaccesslevel username admin - Replace
usernamewith your actual username - Verify admin status is granted successfully
👑 Alternative Admin Methods
- Web Console: Use your hosting provider's web console
- In-Game Command: Type
/setaccesslevel username adminin chat - Server Config: Edit server admin files directly
- Owner Commands: If you're the server owner
Step 2: Enable Brush Tool
- Press ESC or access the Admin Menu
- Click on Edit your Admin Powers option
- Locate the Brush Tool setting
- Toggle the setting to Enabled
- Save your admin power configuration
Step 3: Access Brush Tool Manager
- Return to the main game interface
- Right-click anywhere on your screen
- The Brush Tool Manager menu will appear
- Select the tool type you want to use
Brush Tool Features
Tile Placement
- Instant Placement: Click to place tiles immediately
- Mass Building: Cover large areas quickly
- Custom Selection: Choose from all available tiles
- Undo Support: Remove mistakes easily
Fire Control
- Fire Management: Start or stop fires instantly
- Burn Control: Create controlled burn areas
- Fire Extinguishing: Put out fires automatically
- Fire Spreading: Control how fires propagate
Landscape Editing
- Terrain Modification: Change ground tiles
- Water Placement: Add water sources
- Tree Spawning: Plant forests instantly
- Resource Generation: Place ore nodes and items
Using the Brush Tool Effectively
Building Construction
For rapid base building:
- Select Floor Tiles for instant flooring
- Choose Wall Types for quick fortifications
- Use Furniture Items for instant decoration
- Combine Tools: Switch between different brush types
Server Administration
For server management tasks:
- Event Preparation: Build event areas quickly
- Base Repair: Fix player damage instantly
- Landscape Design: Create custom environments
- Testing Areas: Build test structures for players
Advanced Brush Techniques
Pattern Building
Create complex structures efficiently:
- Grid Patterns: Use systematic tile placement
- Symmetry Tools: Create balanced designs
- Copy/Paste: Repeat successful patterns
- Layer Building: Build floor by floor
Creative Applications
Advanced use cases for server admins:
- Custom Maps: Design unique play areas
- Scenes and Stories: Create narrative spaces
- Challenge Areas: Build obstacle courses
- Artistic Projects: Express creative vision
Troubleshooting
Brush Tool Not Appearing
- Verify admin privileges are correctly granted
- Check that Brush Tool is enabled in admin powers
- Ensure you're not in restricted areas
- Try restarting the game or reconnecting
Tools Not Working
- Check server mod compatibility
- Verify game version supports all features
- Clear game cache and restart
- Consult server logs for error messages
Performance Issues
- Use smaller brush sizes for large areas
- Limit simultaneous tile placements
- Consider server load during mass building
- Test in less populated areas first
Best Practices
🛡️ Responsible Administration
- Player Communication: Announce building projects
- Server Balance: Maintain fair gameplay
- Backup First: Save world before major changes
- Test Areas: Verify functionality before opening
- Documentation: Record all major modifications
Related Admin Tools
- Grant Admin - Admin setup guide
- Admin Commands - Full command reference
- Server Settings - Configuration options
- Debug Mode - Advanced creative features
Community Considerations
Player Impact
When using the Brush Tool:
- Transparency: Inform players about changes
- Consent: Get community input on major projects
- Balance: Ensure changes don't disadvantage players
- Accessibility: Make new areas available to all
Server Performance
Maintain server health during use:
- Peak Times: Avoid major changes during busy hours
- Resource Management: Monitor CPU and memory usage
- Backup Strategy: Regular saves during projects
- Gradual Implementation: Phase in large changes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can non-admins use the Brush Tool?
No, the Brush Tool requires administrator privileges. Regular players cannot access these creative features.
Does Brush Tool work with mods?
Yes, but some mods may conflict. Test with your specific mod configuration and check server logs.
Can I undo Brush Tool changes?
Some changes can be undone using the tool, but major modifications may require manual intervention or world restore.
Is Brush Tool available in multiplayer?
Yes, it's designed specifically for multiplayer server administration and works in both public and private servers.
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