How can I use the Hammer tool to preview building placements before crafting?

The Hammer tool in Valheim is one of the most essential items for building and planning structures. It allows players to preview building placements before committing resources to crafting, ensuring efficient use of materials and avoiding costly mistakes. To use the Hammer effectively, you must first craft it using 3 Wood and 2 Stone, which are readily available in the Meadows biome. Once equipped, the Hammer opens up a building menu where you can select from various structures, such as walls, roofs, and furniture.\n\nTo preview a building placement, select the desired structure from the Hammer''s menu. A ghostly outline of the item will appear, showing where it will be placed. This outline changes color to indicate whether the placement is valid (blue) or invalid (red). Blue means the structure can be built, while red indicates an issue, such as insufficient support, uneven terrain, or overlapping with another object. Use this visual feedback to adjust your placement before crafting.\n\nOne common challenge is ensuring proper structural support. For example, if you''re building a tall structure, the lower sections must be strong enough to support the upper levels. Use the Hammer to preview how each piece connects and ensure the foundation is stable. If the preview turns red, try adding support beams or adjusting the placement. This is especially important in biomes like the Black Forest or Mountains, where uneven terrain can complicate building.\n\nAnother useful feature of the Hammer is the ability to rotate structures before placing them. Press the middle mouse button (or the corresponding key on your platform) to rotate the previewed item. This is particularly helpful when aligning walls, roofs, or decorative items. For example, when building a circular structure, rotating pieces can help achieve a seamless fit. Experiment with different angles to find the best placement.\n\nWhen planning large builds, such as a base or fortress, use the Hammer to map out the entire structure before crafting. This allows you to visualize the final layout and make adjustments without wasting resources. For instance, if you''re building a multi-room house, preview the walls and doors to ensure proper spacing and alignment. This approach saves time and materials, especially when working with rare resources like Fine Wood or Iron.\n\nFinally, remember that the Hammer''s preview mode is also useful for repairing structures. If a piece of your build is damaged, select the repair option in the Hammer menu and hover over the damaged item. The preview will show the repair cost, allowing you to decide whether to fix it immediately or wait. This is particularly helpful during raids or harsh weather conditions, where structures can take significant damage.\n\nIn summary, the Hammer tool is a versatile and indispensable tool for building in Valheim. By using its preview feature, you can plan and adjust your structures with precision, ensuring efficient use of resources and avoiding common building mistakes. Whether you''re a new player crafting your first shelter or an experienced Viking designing a grand fortress, mastering the Hammer will greatly enhance your building experience.