How is BIM useful in Renovation?

Though Building Information Modeling has largely been used in the execution of new construction projects so far, but now it is also used in renovation, refurbishment and retrofit projects by design and construction professionals. For years now, BIM has provided desired results when it comes to the design and construction of building projects and it is believed that it is equally helpful in renovation and restoration projects as well. When it comes to renovation projects BIM is implemented along with laser scanning technology for obtaining better project outcomes. It will not be incorrect to say that laser scanning technology is optimized by BIM users for producing better project outcomes.

In every renovation project surveying the existing building remains the first and most important  step but the fact remains that prior to the existence of  scan to  BIM process, it used to be the most difficult phase of a renovation project. Manual surveying was difficult because too many efforts were required from architects and engineers in terms of measuring the dimensions of the building correctly. Getting exact dimensions used to be really difficult for architect and engineers as human errors used to occur frequently and this used to create huge obstacles for them. Rework after rework used to be quite obvious in renovation process.

But the optimization of laser scanning and BIM technology by AEC professionals in renovation projects has proved to be really beneficial for them. Scanning the existing building has now become just a matter of few hours which once used to take days and weeks. The data obtained with the assistance of effective laser scanners is used by the BIM experts of a service providing company. The point cloud data provided to them is first indexed by them and then used in the project. The entire existing conditions are trapped in point cloud data which help BIM modelers in developing effectual as-built models. As-built BIM models eliminate all the doubts of design and construction professionals concerning the geometrical composition of the building. This allows them to understand the location of the elements of different building disciplines and this helps them greatly in execution the project.

Accurate construction drawings can also be obtained by AEC professionals from BIM models and are referred during renovation of the building. In short renovation process becomes largely uncomplicated because of  scan to BIM services.