Building Information Modeling (BIM) has revolutionized how buildings are planned, constructed, and managed, offering a powerful tool for managing their lifecycle. This process creates a digital model of a building that allows for better visualization and collaboration in decision-making. A quality model includes information about the structure, systems, materials, and maintenance needs that are ingrained into a building’s lifecycle projections to keep it operating safely, efficiently, and securely.
For cities dealing with aging infrastructure that needs updating or new developments, BIM provides a way to not only extend the lifespan of existing buildings for better sustainability and cost-effectiveness but also create new construction plans that are built better and stronger from ‘Day One.’ Here’s how Planit can help you use BIM to extend the lifespan of any building:
PAST: How a BIM Helps Remediation Work in Older Structures
Remediating an older building can be complex, as the original construction materials, design, and infrastructure differ significantly from modern standards. Another problem posed by older buildings is that, depending on their age, the original blueprints and specifications may be inaccurate, outdated, or missing entirely, making it nearly impossible to plot and track systems.
Building information models help streamline this process by creating a detailed model based on recent scans that can plot the building’s original structures and systems without invasive work that may damage or weaken the existing condition. These models provide a holistic view of the building’s current state, allowing architects and engineers to work within the existing structure’s limitations and strengths while still optimizing the necessary remediations you’re planning.
For example, if a building has historical elements that must be preserved, BIM helps designers work around these areas, ensuring that upgrades or renovations are integrated without causing damage. The digital model can also enable project teams to simulate and analyze potential risks before implementation, reducing the chance of costly mistakes. By using BIM, remediation teams can respect a building’s history while preparing it for the future, creating a balance between historical or cultural preservation and necessary modernization for ongoing stability.
PRESENT: How a BIM Supports Management and Maintenance
Effective maintenance is critical for how a building will age, and building information modeling offers a streamlined way to manage these ongoing needs by providing accurate projections of material wear and detailed records of every aspect of the building’s structure and systems. Through BIM paired with a Digital Twin, facility managers can schedule routine inspections, track wear and tear, and identify specific areas of concern that need attention before minor issues become major, costly problems.
For instance, a building information model can help facility teams track the lifespan of their roof and when it will need to be replaced based on the materials used. Having this data at hand and being able to evaluate it regularly can lead to proactive maintenance that minimizes unexpected issues and helps allocate resources.
A BIM’s detailed records also help facility managers with the ability to review a building’s digital model to find the precise location of specific infrastructure, like wiring or plumbing, and then run calculations that estimate a timeline of wear and tear; teams can then avoid unnecessary downtime and disruption to their operations while still tackling their building projects in the most effective order. You’ll never waste another day or dollar on uncertain maintenance needs with a BIM!
FUTURE: How a BIM Optimizes New Construction Projects
The most common use of a building information model is in new construction projects, where it is a powerful tool that enables teams to create a comprehensive digital schema before any physical work begins. BIM simulates structural components, systems, and materials so teams can identify and resolve design issues early, reducing costly errors and delays prior to building.
BIM also helps optimize energy efficiency in the planning stages, allowing architects, engineers, and contractors to model the heating, ventilation, and lighting systems to ensure they work harmoniously. This early coordination in the efforts to secure an energy-efficient building allows for better integration of sustainable materials and designs, ultimately supporting your structural integrity and environmental performance without compromising safety, quality, or durability.
BIM’s ability to centralize all of your project data empowers your stakeholders to make informed, data-driven decisions throughout the construction process, laying the foundation for a resilient and resource-efficient building. The value of a building information model doesn’t stop once you break ground, though, as your BIM now serves as a real-time historical record of the building’s infrastructure and materials.
From ‘Day One’ to ‘End of Days,’ Planit Can Help Support Your Facility at Any Stage
Whether your infrastructure needs thoughtful renovations or a complete rebuild, Planit’s building information modeling services can help you make smarter decisions that improve the overall longevity, sustainability, and profitability of your building. BIM is more than just a design tool- it’s a data-driven way to ensure structures are well-maintained, efficiently managed, and preserved for future generations. With Planit Engineering’s expertise, you can use BIM to make the best choices for any building’s longevity. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about utilizing building information models in your facility so you don’t have to worry about breaking down after breaking ground.
