April 21, 2020

Blocks Palette Improvements in AutoCAD 2021

Our Blocks Palette in AutoCAD 2021 has changed and gained more features. We now have a new tab called “Libraries” that contains a specialized search bar and history tabs. Blocks can be previewed before opening the file in which they reside. Filters help us find specific blocks amongst a multitude of choices. Managing our Blocks…

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James Cuervo

April 17, 2020

Quick Measure Improvements in AutoCAD 2021

Making fast calculations just got easier with the new and improved Quick Measure tool in AutoCAD 2021. Not only can we see distances and angles with this multi-faceted tool, but we can also calculate areas in seconds. By using the Shift key, we can add and subtract multiple areas to one another. This saves tons…

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James Cuervo

April 2, 2020

Creating Simple Crickets with Revit

After creating a chimney, we’ll need to create a cricket to prevent water from building up around where the roof and chimney meet. Since Revit doesn’t have a specialized tool for creating crickets, there are some procedures that can help us make them in minutes. By using reference planes, the roof tool, and proper parameters,…

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James Cuervo

April 2, 2020

Creating Dormers in Revit

When using Revit, it might seem complicated to create a dormer on a pitched roof. However, the process is surprisingly straightforward and rewarding. While you could use a projected roof, we will be using a pitched roof. This is a simple and elegant way of creating nice dormers that enhance our designs. In this tutorial,…

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James Cuervo

March 24, 2020

Numerical & Dimensional Parameters in Revit

In this blog, we’ll be looking at how to resolve the “inconsistent units” error using Revit in an Architectural/Imperial application when using parameters. There are faster ways of calculating the total cost of a space, but let’s look at the bigger picture: How can we get numeric and dimensional parameters to work together? We can…

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James Cuervo

February 25, 2020

Using Functions in Dimensions with Revit

Sometimes, our projects have fixed variables, such as a room that can’t exceed a certain size. Instead of manually modifying a room and confirming that it conforms to specific dimensions, we can create parameters that ensure that our rooms always maintain their “Design Intent” ratios. Below is a link to valid formula syntax and abbreviations:…

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POSTED BY

James Cuervo

February 12, 2020

Creating Schedule Templates with Revit

Project templates allow us to begin working immediately, and they aren’t limited to just projects: We can create schedule templates for specific objects, disciplines, and project milestones. They’re used to show pertinent information related to items and their status in a project’s lifecycle. Our template can include multiple criterion, such as dimensions, materials, preset descriptions,…

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POSTED BY

James Cuervo

December 6, 2019

Demystifying Layer States in AutoCAD

AutoCAD’s layers allow us to show certain components while hiding others. Turning them on and off can become tedious, especially when coordinating multiple disciplines and building phases. Layer States can expedite the process by controlling which viewports show specific layers. Want your new construction to be shown alongside proposed demolitions? Want only plumbing to be…

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James Cuervo

November 15, 2019

Creating Stair Slab Openings Using Shafts in Revit

Some buildings include multiple stories, and a staircase is required for vertical circulation. Instead of cutting through each stair slab opening manually, we can create a malleable shaft that acts as a singular object. By utilizing our extrusions and grip options, we will expedite the process; we can create a shaft that fits any shape…

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POSTED BY

James Cuervo

November 15, 2019

Conforming Walls to Spiral Staircases with Revit

Spiral Staircases save space and enhance the elegance of a room. In some instances, we want to create a circular wall that conforms to the shape of the inner portion of the spiral staircase. This might seem simple, but common procedures result in inaccurate wall sweeps. Revit’s workplane viewer and components can be used to…

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POSTED BY

James Cuervo