Modern construction is growing and evolving faster than ever, but as growth scales, so does the need for communication and collaboration among stakeholders. 

Fortunately, builders and construction firms are staying ahead of the curve with Building Information Modeling, or BIM, technology. This design solution completely changes the building process, both before construction begins and after it ends when a project enters the operational phase.

But what is BIM, and what role does it play in the architecture, engineering, and construction fields?

BIM's Role in Roof Construction and Maintenance

Before discussing the changes occurring in roof construction and maintenance, we must understand BIM and how it works.

BIM is a sophisticated process of turning data into digital building documents and 3D models that aid in a project's design, planning, construction, and maintenance phases.

BIM models can accurately portray how the finished process will look and react with other building systems in the preliminary roof construction phases. After the construction phase ends and the operation phase begins, building information modeling can provide facility managers with valuable insight into the condition of specific roofing materials so they can plan predictive and preventative maintenance to extend roof longevity. 

Enhanced Planning and Design with BIM Technology

The pre-construction phase is arguably the most crucial to a successful building project. Poor planning and rushed design can lead to unforeseen issues, premature maintenance, and shortened asset lifespan. Fortunately, BIM helps designers detect and resolve potential issues early, improving planning accuracy. When designing roof plans, BIM allows facilitates the following: 

Accurate Estimation 

Roof systems designed with BIM streamline the cost estimation process by giving estimators and project managers accurate material information. Once a roof design has been approved, a BIM model can provide data regarding specifications and dimensions, minimizing errors and allowing for precise quantity takeoffs.

Quick Design Adjustments

Before BIM, whenever an adjustment or revision needed to be made to a plan, a CAD (computer-aided design) drafter would have to redraw the affected components, line by line. However, with the introduction of building information technology, a design technician can simply modify the design parameters, and the model will automatically reflect the indicated changes. 

Improved Design Collaboration

Modern BIM software programs like Autodesk Revit utilize clash detection features that alert designers to conflicts between building systems in different disciplines. For example, a structural and a mechanical engineer working separately on intersecting features of a roof may each be alerted that conflicts between their two designs are interfering with the roof's structural integrity or functionality. The two engineers can then collaborate to resolve the issue in a way that works for both disciplines.

Streamlining Maintenance and Renovation Through BIM

Maintenance and renovation are crucial to maximizing a roof's lifecycle. Centralized BIM data from on-site sensors optimizes the timing of preventative maintenance and renovations. 

For instance, water detection sensors are often installed within a roof system. If these sensors detect a leak, the precise location will be sent to that BIM database, alerting management of the need for emergency repairs. Other benefits of incorporating BIM technology into a roof maintenance program include:

• Improved safety planning and risk mitigation
• Minimized building operational disruptions 
• Optimized work schedules for maintenance workers
• A future-proof design philosophy.

Improving Construction Efficiency and Accuracy

BIM has all but eliminated human error in the three-dimensional generation of architecture, design, and construction. The aforementioned clash detection features are designed to prevent design mistakes. If an error is made, the software will notify the BIM technician immediately and only allow them to progress once the issue is addressed. 

Overall, BIM's state-of-the-art features optimize roof construction in terms of accuracy and efficiency. One case study published by EDP Sciences showed that implementing BIM into the design and construction process could cut overall project duration by 50% and reduce costs by 52.36%. Stats like these prove the efficiency of BIM technology and help secure its place in the AEC environment. 

BIM Represents a Massive Shift in Roofing Design

The introduction of BIM into roofing technology has revolutionized the standards for accuracy and efficiency. But, beyond that, its integration represents a monumental progression in the overall approach to design and construction. As the AEC industry moves further into the future, we will see more benefits regarding sustainability and smarter building practices.

For more information on BIM technology, visit microsolresources.com.