If you’ve ever planned a renovation or addition to your property, or even if you’re just curious about the details of your building, you may have encountered the term “As-Built Plans.” But what exactly does this term mean, and why are As-Built Plans so important? In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about As-Built Plans: what they are, how they differ from original construction plans, and why they’re essential for successful property improvement projects.
Understanding As-Built Plans: What Are They?
As-Built Plans are detailed drawings or blueprints that represent the current state of a building. They capture the exact dimensions, layout, and features of a structure as it stands today. Unlike original construction plans - sometimes called “design plans” - which show what the building was intended to look like, As-Built Plans reflect the reality of the building after construction, including any changes, modifications, or adjustments made during the building process.
For example, imagine you’re building a house. The original design plans might show where the walls, windows, and doors are supposed to be. However, during construction, changes often happen - maybe a window is moved to allow for better lighting, or a wall is shifted to create more space in a room. As-Built Plans document these real-life changes, providing an accurate representation of the completed structure.
Why Are As-Built Plans Important?
As-Built Plans are crucial for anyone involved in the construction, renovation, or maintenance of a building. Here’s why:
- Accuracy in Planning: Whether you’re planning a renovation, an addition, or even just routine maintenance, having accurate As-Built Plans ensures that you’re working with the true dimensions and layout of your building. This can prevent costly mistakes, such as ordering materials that don’t fit or planning designs that aren’t feasible.
- Facilitating Communication: As-Built Plans serve as a common reference point for everyone involved in a project - property owners, contractors, architects, and engineers. By providing a clear and accurate picture of the current structure, they help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
- Simplifying Permitting Processes: Many local building departments require As-Built Plans when you apply for permits, especially for renovations or additions. These plans demonstrate that you understand the existing conditions of the building and how your proposed changes will fit into the current layout.
- Long-Term Value: As-Built Plans add long-term value to your property. If you ever decide to sell your building, having up-to-date As-Built Plans can be a significant asset. They provide potential buyers with a clear understanding of the property, which can streamline the selling process.
How Are As-Built Plans Created?
Creating As-Built Plans involves taking precise measurements of the existing structure to ensure that the drawings accurately reflect the building as it stands today. Traditionally, this process involved manual techniques such as tape measures, laser distance meters, and hand-drawn sketches. While these legacy methods can be effective, they often come with limitations - they are time-consuming, prone to human error, and can result in inaccuracies that affect the entire project.
At QuickenPlans, we take a more advanced approach by using cutting-edge 3D scanning technology, including LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and infrared-powered tools, to capture every detail of the building. This method offers several advantages over traditional techniques:
- Speed: 3D scanning significantly reduces the time required to measure a building compared to manual methods. What might take days to measure manually can be completed in a matter of hours with 3D scanning.
- Accuracy: The precision of 3D scanning ensures that every aspect of the building is captured accurately, reducing the risk of errors that can lead to costly mistakes down the line.
- Comprehensive Data: 3D scanning captures millions of data points, creating a detailed digital model of the building. This model, known as a “point cloud,” provides a comprehensive representation of the structure, which can be used to create highly accurate As-Built Plans.
- Cost Savings: Because our process reduces the need for extensive human input, we save on labor costs and pass those savings on to you. This means you get accurate, high-quality As-Built Plans at a more affordable price compared to traditional methods.
Here’s how the process works:
Step 1 - 3D Scanning: Our technician visits your property and conducts a thorough 3D scan. This scan captures millions of data points, creating a highly detailed digital model of your space. This model, known as a “point cloud,” represents the exact dimensions and features of the building, including walls, windows, doors, and other architectural elements.
Step 2 - Conversion to CAD Files: The point cloud data is then converted into CAD (Computer-Aided Design) files. These files form the basis of your As-Built Plans, providing a precise and comprehensive representation of your building’s layout.
Step 3 - Final As-Built Plans: The CAD files are used to create the final As-Built Plans, which are delivered to you in both PDF and AutoCAD 2020 .DWG formats. These plans are ready for use in your project, whether you’re planning a renovation, an addition, or new construction.
When Should You Update Your As-Built Plans?
As-Built Plans should be updated whenever significant changes are made to a building. Here are a few scenarios where updating your As-Built Plans is essential:
- Renovations: If you’ve renovated a part of your building, such as the kitchen or bathroom, it’s important to update the As-Built Plans to reflect these changes. This ensures that your plans are accurate and ready for any future projects.
- Additions: When adding a new room, garage, or other structure to your property, updating the As-Built Plans is crucial. This helps maintain a clear record of the property’s layout and ensures that future projects are based on accurate information.
- Major Repairs: If your building has undergone significant repairs, such as structural fixes or roof replacements, updating the As-Built Plans is a good idea. This ensures that all aspects of the building are accurately documented.
Keeping your As-Built Plans current is essential for effective property management and future planning.
The Bottom Line on As-Built Plans
As-Built Plans are an invaluable resource for property owners, builders, and architects alike. They provide an accurate and up-to-date record of your building, helping to guide renovations, additions, and other projects. By working with precise As-Built Plans, you can avoid costly errors, streamline the permitting process, and ensure that your projects are completed successfully.
If you’re planning a project and need reliable As-Built Plans, QuickenPlans is here to help. Our team uses the latest 3D scanning technology to deliver accurate, detailed plans that you can trust. Contact us today to learn more and get started on your next project!