As-built Plans - How to create them?

If you're looking to understand what as-built plans are and how they are created you have,come to the right spot!

This isn't an exhaustive guide, but rather a brief overview. For a comprehensive understanding of as-built drawings, be sure to check out our detailed guide Here.

To begin, let's clarify how the term "as-built" is defined:

• As-built drawings represent the current layout of a building or property.

• Additionally, the term is used to describe drawings made by builders after completing new construction to document any changes from the original design plans.

Regardless of the type of as-built you are interested in, the same software is utilized to create these plans.

In the past, the first step in developing an as-built plan involved measuring the existing building, typically with a standard tape measure, sketching the layout on paper, and then digitizing it using design software.

As-Built Computer Software

As Built Exterior Elevations By Katiccad

For over 25 years, building and design professionals have relied on digital design software for creating plans.

This design software is commonly referred to as CAD software, which stands for computer-aided design.

AutoCAD By Autodesk

One of the most well-known design software is AutoCAD, developed by Autodesk several decades ago. It continues to be a top choice for architects, engineers, and designers to create plans. The same software that designs construction plans is also utilized for as-built plans.

AutoCAD is particularly renowned for its 2D capabilities, and many designers regard it as the fastest 2D drawing and design software for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.

SketchUp By Trimble

SketchUp is rapidly becoming a favorite design software, widely adopted by established firms and embraced by the DIY community for creating and modeling everything from small objects to complete architectural projects. Its user-friendly interface and ease of use have contributed to its growing popularity as a tool for drawing as-built plans.

While AutoCAD leads in 2D software, SketchUp excels in 3D, allowing users to create three-dimensional geometry and represent as-built plans with greater detail and spatial clarity.

Revit By Autodesk

Revit, a top design software for architects, is a preferred tool among as-built service providers for producing accurate and detailed as-built drawings. While SketchUp is known for its 3D capabilities, Revit enhances the modeling experience by enabling the inclusion of rich information.

Revit falls under the category of BIM (Building Information Modeling) software, allowing users to incorporate additional details about elements like windows, providing both visual representation and notes on materials used (think metal versus PVC).

Since Revit is primarily designed for architects, it is recognized as one of the best software for creating and documenting as-built drawings.

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Physical Tools for As-Built Documentation

As Built Floor Plan By Katiccad

In addition to the software mentioned above, various physical tools are utilized to generate as-built drawings and document existing layouts. While I previously mentioned tape measures and notepads as traditional tools, let's explore more modern tools used in the documentation process.

Laser Tape Measures

Laser tape measures are perhaps the quickest way to measure linear dimensions. You might think that using "laser" would make these expensive, but you can find affordable options at your local Home Depot or Lowe’s for as little as $29.99.

I started with a basic laser tape measure and eventually upgraded to more advanced models with higher price tags. The cost typically increases with added features and longer measuring distances – think 100 feet versus 300 feet.

I highly recommend exploring the Leica collection as a must-have tool. Using a laser tape measure can triple your measuring speed and facilitate rapid sketches for as-built documentation.

3D Scanners & Cameras

If you're not familiar, you should check out the sample we have on our 3D Virtual Tour page at Jay Cad. This technology has revolutionized our approach, allowing us to avoid on-site visits nearly entirely. Our project manager and production team can examine openings, walls, and other intricate details from the comfort of their desks, which can be challenging to capture in hand-drawn sketches.

Digital Level (Optional)

Digital levels serve various purposes, but in the context of as-built documentation, they can be used to assess the ground slope around a property. At Katiccad, we don't typically use digital levels or document grade changes, but we have the tool for able for reference.

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