Top Software Tools for Creating Professional As-Built Drawings

As-built drawings are essential documents in construction and architecture. They show the final built structure, including any changes made during the construction process. These drawings are crucial for future renovations, maintenance, and understanding of the building’s layout. 

Creating accurate and professional as-built drawings requires the right software tools. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top software tools that make this process easier and more efficient.

What Are As-Built Drawings?

Before diving into the tools, let’s understand what as-built drawings are. These are detailed drawings that reflect the actual construction of a building or structure. They include all modifications, additions, and changes made during the construction process.

Architects, engineers, and contractors use these drawings to ensure the building matches the original design or to plan future work.

Why Use Software for As-Built Drawings?

In the past, as-built drawings were created manually, which was time-consuming and prone to errors. Today, software tools have made the process faster, more accurate, and easier to manage.

These tools allow professionals to create digital drawings, make quick edits, and share them with team members. They also help in maintaining consistency and precision. Now, let’s look at some of the top software tools for creating professional as-built drawings.

1. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is one of the most popular tools for creating as-built drawings. It’s widely used in architecture, engineering, and construction industries. AutoCAD allows users to create 2D and 3D drawings with high precision. It offers a wide range of tools for drafting, editing, and annotating drawings.

Key Features:

• Easy-to-use interface for creating detailed drawings.

• Supports both 2D and 3D modeling.

• Allows collaboration with team members.

• Compatible with other design software.

AutoCAD is a great choice for professionals who need a reliable and versatile tool for creating as-built drawings.

2. Revit

Revit is another powerful tool, especially for Building Information Modeling (BIM). BIM is a process that involves creating and managing digital representations of buildings. Revit is ideal for creating as-built drawings because it allows users to update changes in real time.

Key Features:

• Specializes in BIM for accurate as-built documentation.

• Automatically updates changes across all views.

• Great for collaborative projects.

• Offers 3D modeling and visualization.

Revit is perfect for teams working on large projects where accuracy and collaboration are crucial.

3. SketchUp

SketchUp is known for its user-friendly interface and is a favorite among architects and designers. While it’s often used for 3D modeling, it can also be used to create as-built drawings. SketchUp is especially useful for creating simple and clear drawings.

Key Features:

• Easy to learn and use.

• Great for 3D modeling and visualization.

• Offers a free version for beginners.

• Supports plugins for additional features.

SketchUp is a good option for those who want a simple and intuitive tool for creating as-built drawings.

4. Bluebeam Revu

Bluebeam Revu is a PDF-based tool that’s widely used in the construction industry. It’s perfect for creating, editing, and sharing as-built drawings. Bluebeam Revu allows users to mark up drawings, add comments, and collaborate with team members.

Key Features:

• Excellent for PDF editing and markup.

• Supports collaboration and document sharing.

• Easy to use for creating detailed drawings.

• Integrates with other construction software.

Bluebeam Revu is ideal for professionals who work with PDF documents and need a tool for quick edits and collaboration.

5. ArcSite

ArcSite is a mobile-friendly tool designed for creating as-built drawings on the go. It’s perfect for field workers who need to capture measurements and create drawings directly from the construction site.

Key Features:

• Mobile app for creating drawings on-site.

• Easy to use with a simple interface.

• Allows real-time updates and sharing.

• Great for small to medium-sized projects.

ArcSite is a convenient option for professionals who need a portable and easy-to-use tool.

6. SolidWorks

SolidWorks is a 3D CAD software often used in engineering and product design. However, it can also be used for creating as-built drawings, especially for complex structures. SolidWorks offers advanced tools for precise modeling and documentation.

Key Features:

• Advanced 3D modeling capabilities.

• Great for detailed and complex drawings.

• Supports collaboration and file sharing.

• Offers simulation and analysis tools.

SolidWorks is best suited for professionals who need advanced tools for detailed and complex as-built drawings.

7. Floorplanner

Floorplanner is a web-based tool that’s perfect for creating simple as-built drawings. It’s easy to use and doesn’t require any installation. Floorplanner is ideal for small projects or quick drafts.

Key Features:

• Web-based and easy to access.

• Simple and intuitive interface.

• Great for creating 2D-floor plans.

• Offers 3D visualization.

Floorplanner is a good choice for beginners or those who need a quick and simple tool for creating as-built drawings.

8. Chief Architect

Chief Architect is a software tool designed specifically for residential and light commercial design. It’s great for creating detailed as-built drawings, especially for homes and small buildings.

Key Features:

• Specializes in residential design.

• Easy to use with a drag-and-drop interface.

• Offers 3D modeling and visualization.

• Great for creating detailed construction documents.

Chief Architect is perfect for professionals working on residential projects.

Choosing the Right Tool

When selecting software for creating as-built drawings, consider the following factors:

• Project Size: For large projects, tools like Revit or AutoCAD are ideal. For smaller projects, SketchUp or Floorplanner may suffice.

• Ease of Use: If you’re a beginner, choose user-friendly tools like SketchUp or Floorplanner.

• Collaboration Needs: For team projects, tools like Revit or Bluebeam Revu are great for collaboration.

• Budget: Some tools offer free versions or are more affordable, making them suitable for small businesses or individuals.

Our Final Thoughts

In short, creating professional as-built drawings is easier than ever with the right software tools. Whether you’re working on a large construction project or a small renovation, there’s a tool that fits your needs. 

AutoCAD and Revit are great for detailed and collaborative projects, while SketchUp and Floorplanner are perfect for simpler tasks. Bluebeam Revu and ArcSite are excellent for on-the-go editing, and SolidWorks and Chief Architect are ideal for advanced and specialized projects.

By choosing the right software, you can save time, improve accuracy, and create high-quality as-built drawings that meet professional standards.