Alterpex

05/21/2026

Our recent trip to Arizona was a blast! 🌵🚘

One of our long-term clients requested a commercial scanning project for a large retail space in Arizona, and we were more than happy to hit the road to support them.

📍 Project Size: 40,000 Sq.Ft.

🔍 Scope of Work:
• Store Scanning
• Roof Scanning
• MEP Report
• 360° Photoshoot for a Virtual Tour

⏱️ Time On-Site: 1h 42m
Was it worth traveling for less than 2 hours on-site? Absolutely!

For us, it’s never about the amount of time spent on-site, it’s about delivering high-quality results and making the process as efficient as possible. That’s why we prefer working with SLAM scanners. They allow us to scan faster while also producing a higher-quality point cloud compared to many traditional static scanning systems.
Most importantly, when a client asks us to travel for a project, we truly see it as a compliment. Being trusted to handle a project, even with additional travel costs involved, means our clients value the quality and reliability of our work, and we never take that for granted.

Looking at our growing map of projects across different states, we can’t ignore the fact that quality work continues to open new doors for us. Great clients and consistent results keep pushing our work farther and farther across the map, and we’re incredibly grateful for that trust💛.

05/13/2026

We just turned 6 years old! 🎉

We’re incredibly proud to celebrate 6 years in the AEC industry. It’s been a fun rollercoaster filled with challenges, growth, lessons, and exciting opportunities. At the end of the day, what makes us sleep well is knowing that we provide real value to the construction industry, homeowners, real estate professionals, and architectural studios.
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of contributing to some truly unique projects, including:

Fire restoration projects in Pacific PalisadesA rehab center in Santa MonicaA historic Hollywood hotel RooseveltPrison facilitiesAmazon warehouse projectsMedical cannabis facilitiesOne of the oldest churches in San Francisco, St Ignatius Church
…and many more projects we’ve been honored to be part of along the way.

Thank you to our team, partners, and clients for being part of this journey.
Here’s to continued growth and many more exciting years ahead! 🚀

05/07/2026

04/30/2026

There’s nothing wrong with CAD… until you need a BIM model 🧊

When our client reached out, they already had a solid set of CAD plans 👍But their architect and interior designer needed a 3D Revit model to take things further.

That’s where CAD-to-BIM conversion comes in ✨
With the upgrade, they got:
✔️ A clear 3D view of the space
✔️ Smarter planning and coordination
✔️ A strong foundation for the next phase

Now the client and their creative team are ready to move forward 🚀
If you’re ready to take your plans to the next level too - give us a call today at 415-696-4180

04/17/2026

🏗️ What MEP BIM services we provide?

MEP BIM services cover the full cycle of engineering coordination, from 3D modeling to construction-ready documentation. Their main goal is to ensure that mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are accurate, coordinated, and ready for installation.

🔍 Scope of our MEP BIM services:

• MEP Modeling. Creation of coordinated 3D models based on design intent and technical standards.
• Clash Detection. Early identification of system conflicts to avoid on-site issues.
• MEP Coordination. Alignment of all disciplines within a single BIM environment.
• Shop Drawings. Detailed drawings that support efficient and error-free installation.
• MEP Family Creation. Custom BIM families that match real equipment and project requirements.
• Fabrication Plans. Precise layouts prepared for prefabrication and material optimization.

📌 These services help reduce rework, improve communication between teams, and increase confidence in project delivery.

👉 Which MEP BIM service do you consider essential for a successful build?

04/02/2026

💡 Factors that Impact Pricing for MEP BIM Services

The cost of MEP BIM services always depends on a set of variables connected to scope, complexity, and project goals. Understanding these factors helps teams plan budgets realistically and avoid surprises later.

📌 What influences the price most?

1️⃣ Project size & complexity
Large buildings and facilities with many systems require more modeling, coordination, and detail.

2️⃣ Level of detail (LOD)
Higher LOD means more precision in equipment, routing, and documentation, and more hours of work.

3️⃣ Available inputs
Accurate drawings, standards, and specifications reduce rework. Poor or incomplete inputs mean extra time.

4️⃣ Deadlines
Urgent projects often require additional resources to meet delivery dates.

5️⃣ Required coordination
More stakeholders, meetings, and clash detection sessions increase involvement and cost.

At ALTERPEX, we offer collaboration on per project or hourly basis. Some projects require very little touchup, and others need to be done in milestones. We always look for the approach that will be pro-efficient for our team and our clients!

03/26/2026

5 Benefits of MEP BIM

MEP BIM integrates Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems into a unified 3D model. This is far more than just a visualization tool, it’s a robust engine for managing project data and streamlining critical processes.

💡Key Benefits:
1️⃣Transparency Across All Phases. Intuitive, data-rich models provide clear visibility into how all systems will interact and function together, long before breaking ground.

2️⃣Significant Risk Mitigation. Accurate clash detection proactively resolves costly conflicts and errors that traditionally are only discovered on-site, saving time and avoiding expensive rework.

3️⃣Accelerated Design and Review. Design updates and changes are processed much faster because all associated documentation and information is instantly synchronized within the model.

4️⃣Predictable Cost Control. Accurate material quantities and data (Quantity Takeoffs or QTOs) simplify budget planning, minimize waste, and help prevent costly budget overruns.

5️⃣Optimized Facility Management (FM). BIM’s value extends past construction. The final model is a crucial asset used for maintenance, servicing, and full lifecycle management after the building is commissioned.

MEP BIM moves problem-solving from the field to the screen, turning potential chaos into construction certainty.

03/12/2026

⚡ What is Electrical BIM?

Electrical BIM is the digital modeling and coordination of electrical systems inside a building. Instead of traditional 2D plans, engineers use a 3D intelligent model that connects all electrical components in one place, from power distribution to lighting and safety systems.

🔌 What does Electrical BIM cover?
• Main power and distribution panels
• Lighting layouts and control systems
• Cable trays, conduits, and routing
• Emergency and fire alarm systems
• Coordination with mechanical and plumbing

This approach allows teams to visualize and validate how electrical systems will function before construction. Potential clashes with pipes, ducts, or structural elements can be detected early, saving time, budget, and reducing risk.

💡 Key benefits:
✔️ More accurate installation planning
✔️ Fewer design changes during construction
✔️ Improved safety and system reliability
✔️ Support for maintenance and facility management

Electrical BIM turns complex infrastructure into a predictable, coordinated system.

03/05/2026

⚙️ What is Mechanical BIM?

Mechanical BIM is the process of creating a detailed digital model of mechanical systems in a building including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and other equipment that ensures indoor comfort and air quality.

Instead of working with 2D drawings, engineers use a 3D model that shows how ducts, pipes, and machines are laid out, how they connect, and how they interact with the building structure. This helps teams make better decisions before construction starts.

💡 Key benefits:

✔️ Accurate planning: ductwork and equipment are optimized for space, energy performance, and comfort.
✔️ Clash detection: conflicts with other systems (electrical, plumbing, structural) are caught early, not on-site.
✔️ Cost and time efficiency: fewer changes during installation, predictable results.
✔️ Improved building performance: efficient ventilation and temperature control mean better comfort for occupants.

Mechanical BIM turns design into data, helping projects run smoothly and reducing risk.

01/16/2026

🏢 Commercial As-Built for Future Tenant Improvement
Once the space was vacated, we completed a comprehensive as-built survey supported by photo and drone documentation. Deliverables included a complete as-built set and a detailed MEP report, helping future tenants make informed design and renovation decisions.

📐 Deliverables included:
• Floor plans
• Reflected ceiling plans with devices
• Electrical plans
• Roof plans with equipment
• Major and exposed framing
• Full site plan
• MEP report
• Drone photos
• Virtual walk-through

🤝 Commercial projects require a higher level of coordination. Our transparent approach ensures clear site access requirements and consistently high-quality as-built documentation.

01/09/2026

A challenging backyard or a steep driveway doesn’t mean you can’t improve your space; it just means you need a precise starting point. You can’t plan a dream renovation without knowing exactly where the dirt meets the deck. That’s why As-Builts and 3D Topo Plans are the first real step in any remodel.

This project was for a returning client looking to elevate their exterior. Working together again allowed us to move fast, stay precise, and help them unlock the next chapter of their home.

Scope of work:
🟡Full As-Built Set: Mapping the existing home.
🟡3D Topographic Site Plan: Modeling the hillside.
🟡Exterior Decks & Patios: Planning for new outdoor living.
🟡3D SketchUp Export: Ready for the design phase.
🟡Turnaround: 8 Days ⏱️

To our repeat clients: thank you for helping us grow. We get better every day because of you.💛

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