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3D Laser Scanning
We take your laser scan projects to the next level
Lasers have become an integral tool in construction. Laser technology has made building easier and safer, from making sure a structure is level to helping produce an architectural plan from a 3D scan.
At ARC, we combine LiDAR technology with advanced laser scanning methods to improve data accuracy and efficiency. Architecture professionals at ARC understand the impact 3D laser scan to BIM can have on the planning and execution of your project, ensuring precise data capture for better design and construction outcomes.
Benefits of 3D Laser Scanning
The art of the point cloud
Laser scanners capture everything within their line of sight. As the laser sweeps across a surface, it takes millions of precise measurements. Each measurement results in a single point in space, and together, these points form what is known as a point cloud.
A three-dimensional point cloud reveals all out-of-plumb and out-of-square conditions in the real world. By integrating LiDAR technology, these scans achieve even greater accuracy, ensuring highly detailed representations of structures. The point cloud can then be used to create 2D CAD line work or even a 3D intelligent Building Information Model (BIM) for enhanced design and documentation.
Receiving the laser scanned data provided us with the ability to refer back and measure areas without having to return to the site for additional field investigation. This is not only a time saving advantage, but a sustainable one also."
- Lawrence C.
I have always looked to ARC as an expert on matters related to 3D laser scanning and building documentation. ARC has always provided me with the straight-forward, objective answers and takes the time to thoroughly answer all of my questions."
- Peggy Y.
More often than not, we can start faster than you can authorize us.
We pride ourselves in providing innovative solutions,
rapid response, high quality products and service, on time.
However, don't take our word for it.
On target for success
You, our valued client, are the focus of all we do. We view ourselves as an extension of your team - your strategic partner in reality capture services. We are fully committed to your success, guaranteeing that all phone calls and emails will be promptly returned.
We will provide courteous and professional service, and above all, we will produce the highest quality product every time to support you as you fulfill your project needs and business commitments in reality capture services.
U.S. Institute of Building Documentation/LOA Certified
Staff at ARC is LOA (Level of Accuracy) certified by the U.S. Institute of Building Documentation. The LOA standards were created by the USIBD as a guide for reality capture professionals within the AEC industry.
LOA certified individuals have demonstrated their understanding of the USIBD's LOA specification and how to apply its principles to ensure accuracy and precision in the measurement process.
To us, every square foot matters. That's why our professional employees are trained to follow these standards when working on projects—so you can know that your deliverables are always accurate.
Quick Questions
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What makes ARC different from other scan to BIM companies?ARC is made up of a team of licensed architects and highly-qualified technicians who know first-hand how important accuracy is for any building project. Unlike many other scan to BIM companies, ARC was an early adopter of 3D laser scanning and the scan to BIM process, innovating scan to BIM workflows before laser scan data could even be brought into BIM.
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Why should I choose ARC for scan to BIM services?Our highly-experienced team can produce a scan to BIM model quickly, accurately, and to spec that will be invaluable to your project whether you are planning, designing, building, or managing operations.
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How do you go about 3D scanning buildings with safety hazards and limit access?This technology was made for 3D laser scanning buildings, worksites and other areas that are unsafe for human surveyors. We offer a range of scanners, cameras, and other mapping technology that prioritizes worksite safety.
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How can I get a 3D building scan of my site?Using the best laser scanning technology, ARC will scan your site in its as-built condition to create a 3D building scan, giving you the most accurate building model for your project.
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Who can benefit from using a 3D laser scan in architecture? I found some old blueprint record drawings—isn't this enough?Old blueprints and record drawings can help with initial planning, but nothing will give you the full picture like 3D scanning for architecture. Property managers, owners, contractors, architecture firms, and designers will be able to budget and plan better with accurate and validated information that only a 3D scanning for architecture as-built can provide.
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Why is a LiDAR survey important for construction projects?A LiDAR survey uses laser pulses to capture precise 3D site data, helping construction teams detect structural issues, measure elevations with millimeter accuracy, and plan efficiently. Its high accuracy improves design alignment, reduces errors, and enhances overall project execution.
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How does laser scanning benefit historical building documentation?Laser scanning provides accurate, hands-free building documentation that promotes the preservation of historical buildings without invasive or damaging techniques. The resulting data can create a precise record of a building’s specifications whether for renovation or historical registration.
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What other building documentation services do you offer?ARC is a full-service building documentation company. Our services include photo imagery, photogrammetry, and laser scanning that can fulfill historical survey requirements, create a working HBIM, or support a petition of historical registration.
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How accurate are ARC's measurements?ARC utilizes the latest laser technologies and best practice workflows to perform its measurements. The manufacturer’s specifications for the most common laser scanners we use quote an accuracy of 2mm at 10m. Generally, the higher the accuracy requirements the higher the cost. ARC utilizes the U.S. Institute of Building Documentation Level of Accuracy (LOA) Specification. The two most commonly prescribed LOA’s are LOA20 and LOA30. The respective tolerance ranges for these LOAs are 5/8” to 2” and ¼” to 5/8”.
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Is there a limit to where ARC is willing to travel to survey my building?ARC provides on-site as-built services anywhere in the United States and can offer referrals to providers who are able to perform work internationally.
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How much does it cost to scan my building?There are a number of factors that go into determining the cost to laser scan and document a building. First, we must determine the intent of what you are trying to accomplish with the scan. We then need to understand what type of building it is, how complex the building’s layout is and are there any operational constraints to operating within the space to be documented. Finally, we need to know what type of deliverables are needed (2D, 3D, CAD, BIM, point cloud, etc.).
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How fast can you start work?More often than not, we can have our team on site faster than you can authorize us and coordinate access. While this isn’t always the case, it happens quite often.
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What is the difference between a measured accuracy and a represented accuracy?Measured accuracy refers to the overall accuracy of a comprehensive set of measurements. This accuracy accounts for instrument error, operator error, error in measuring technique, random error and least count error. For laser scanning we often consider the accuracy of a registered point cloud the measured accuracy. To then take a point cloud and represent those measured points as either CAD line work or modeled elements in a BIM more error will be introduced. The accuracy of the represented lines or model elements is considered to be the represented accuracy.
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How long will it take to provide me an as-built of my building?This will vary depending on how quickly we can gain access to the space, what the size and complexity of the space is, are there any operational constraints and what the end deliverables are.
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What methods does the provider use to communicate?ARC responds to all emails and phone calls within 24 hours. We also use Zoom and Microsoft Teams to hold virtual meetings.
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What methods does the provider use to ensure quality?For our various types of services, we have developed our own QA-QC (Quality Analysis Quality Control) method of checking all our work to ensure that you have the most accurate deliverable.
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Is the provider from another country? Do they understand your culture, customs, and building codes? Are they fluent in your language?We are based in Southern California in the United States. We communicate using the English language and are well educated to understand American building codes. Certain staff at ARC are fluent in both English and Spanish.
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Are the services provided comprehensive or will you need multiple partners?10 services, 1 client. View our Services to see how we make life easier for you.
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What commitments is the provider willing to make regarding customer service?View our company's About page to see how we handle customer service.
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Is the provider an expert in their field?View our About page to see information on our expertise.
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Is the provider in or adjacent to your time zones?We are in the Pacific time zone.
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How well does the provider's operation scale in peak demand situations?Half of our staff has been with ARC for 10+ years. Our professionals are more than qualified to take on your projects during demanding situations.
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Is the provider financially stable? Will they be in business when you need them to deliver on time?ARC has continued to grow its income and client network every single year since 1997. For 25 years we have developed our company into one that helps others to build itself.
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Do license architects oversee operations?We have two senior level licensed Architects who oversee all operations.
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Does the provider have experience working on your project type; and can the firm provide references to illustrate relevant project experience?Before you hire ARC, we send you an SOQ with our qualifications, which includes examples of other projects we have completed similar to yours. We do this to demonstrate our abilities.
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How are 3D as-built models different from traditional 2D record drawings?3D as-built models provide a comprehensive visual representation of a structure as it was actually built. It has been validated and represents the true existing conditions. On the other hand, traditional 2D record drawings typically present information in a flat 2D manner limiting their usefulness. More importantly, record drawings are rarely updated to represent changes that occurred during and after construction leaving their accuracy questionable. Relying on unvalidated information can be very risky.
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What is one of the best ways to generate 3D as-built models for buildings?Scan-to-BIM (Building Information Modeling) is the process that uses 3D laser scanning (LiDAR) to quickly and accurately capture existing conditions, which are then represented using BIM modelling techniques to create a 3D as-built model.
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What are the primary benefits of using BIM modeling for architectural projects?BIM modeling offers architects numerous advantages, including improved project visualization, and streamlined workflows that enhance data sharing and team collaboration. This results in fewer errors, efficient project management, and ultimately leads to better cost estimates and higher-quality architectural projects.
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What challenges do retail as-built service providers face when working in retail environments?Retail as-built service providers often face challenges while operating during business hours, navigating crowded spaces, and ensuring minimal disruption to customers. Typically, this can be overcome by scheduling work to be performed outside of normal hours of operation..
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What are the challenges and advantages of conducting campus as-built surveys for expansive college environments?Gaining access to areas when students are present can be challenging often requiring as-builts to be scheduled off-hours. However, One advantage of obtaining a campus as-built survey is having quick access to existing conditions data without having to contend with access issues in the future. In addition, having accurate data will help with agency compliance requirements.
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How do industrial as built projects help owners evaluate the purchase of a building?Industrial as built documentation is often used during the due diligence period when an owner is evaluating whether to proceed with a building purchase. Information must be gathered quickly as the due diligence periods are often as short as 30 days. Cutting edge technologies such as 3D laser scanning, and advanced photo imagery can play a pivotal role in obtaining information in time to make an informed decision.
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What technologies are commonly used for conducting an accurate existing conditions survey?Commonly used technologies for conducting an accurate existing conditions survey include terrestrial laser scanning, advanced 3D imaging, and drone photogrammetry. These technologies produce high-resolution point clouds that can be used to create accurate 3D models for precise measurement and analysis.
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What are as-built services, and how do they help document and verify construction projects?As-built services are documentation and verification services often used for renovation projects, capturing deviations from original design intent plans. They help ensure legal compliance, streamline maintenance and repairs, and improve the resale value of properties.
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How can campus as-built services assist in accurately documenting large educational, medical, or corporate campuses?Campus as-built services use documentation techniques, technology and process to capture and represent building data. This assists in space planning, operations, maintenance, and planning renovations by providing up-to-date and precise information.
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