Using Building Information Modelling (BIM) on a new building is straightforward. After all, you are going to be starting from scratch. You can make sure everything is laid out where it needs to be, making the process a lot more straightforward. However, if you are working on a building that already exists, it can be a different story. Whether it is an extension, renovation, or historical construction, you will still need to create a BIM model. However, the approach will be different, which is why it always makes sense to team up with professionals like The CAD Room. We will provide you with further insight into using BIM on existing buildings below to better understand what is entailed.
Construction work on existing buildings
There are many different ways construction work can take place on existing buildings. For example, you may be refitting a space for a new tenant or adapting a historic area to be more suitable for modern life. Once a new building is complete, you may need facilities management. These are just a handful of examples. This is why you must hold discussions at the beginning of any project to make sure all the trades involved know the model’s limitations and the project’s objectives. You will need BIM for this to be achieved.
The case for BIM on existing buildings
BIM typically comes from the design team’s needs rather than the building orders. If everyone uses 3D models, it is much easier to coordinate the entire effort. No matter how big or small the project is, BIM will ensure a smooth and efficient workflow while ensuring that the work is future-proofed.
BIM modelling an existing building
You may be wondering whether you need to create a BIM model for the entire building or simply the part of the building being worked on. Initially, people thought that the latter approach was the best. However, they found that several issues came from this approach in practice.
Firstly, if there were changes in the middle of the project, as is often the case, you would have to go back and start looking for the original documents once more.
Secondly, there were problems in terms of the other disciplines. If they had a broader scope, for example, replacing all of the MEP systems within the building. With only part of the building, the structure needed for coordination is not going to be there.
For this reason, modelling the complete building can often be the best approach, as you can make sure the issues mentioned above do not arise and derail your project. This will also help future-proofing any work you do on the same building in the future. You will have already made your research effort, so you will not need to do it again.
Final words on using BIM on existing buildings
We hope we’ve now provided you with the information you need to know about using BIM on existing buildings. If you are working on an existing structure, be it an extension or a historical building, you will still need to create a BIM model. We hope that the advice that we have provided above will help you with this, but don’t forget that seasoned professionals can take on this part of your project for you.
