Why is it vital to convert existing PDFs into CAD format?

Posted on: October 27, 2021, By: Dhvani Badheka

Ever since its inception in the early 1960’s, Drafting Services have completely transformed various industries like manufacturing, automobile, Aerospace & Aviation etc. Its contribution to the construction sector also has been particularly significant. It provided architects, engineers and designers to digitize their processes. It improves their clarity, accuracy and speed.

PDF to CAD Conversion

However, still a lot of construction drawings that exits are in paper or PDF formats. A step above paper drawings, PDF format is still a little versatile, can be shared easily and can be stored effectively for a longer duration. PDF is also a multi-functional file format that can hold 2D text as well as raster and graphic images. Moreover, data values and images do not get distorted when the PDF is shared. But, there are also various disadvantages with the primary one being that it can’t be edited and it can in most cases be an obsolete format to work with. Additionally, as stated above CAD has various tools and intuitive features that lead to a streamlined construction process. Here we state why PDF files are still important and also provide reasons as to why converting them into CAD format becomes necessary.

Why is PDF format still important?

1. PDF files become valuable in absence or loss of original CAD Files:

Due to a variety of reasons some existing buildings don’t have CAD files and associated proper documents. The paper documents that were existing were scanned and converted into PDFs at some stage for better storage. CAD conversion can be a more lengthy and time consuming project which might not have been necessary at a given point due to lack of requirement. However, when the said building needs to go under reconstruction, reconstruction or retrofit it is here that the problem arises. It could become a tedious process to create 2D drawings in absence of any as-built data. At this point if there are even basic PDF drawings then they can be converted into CAD files which can then be updated as per the scope of the project. These PDFs can act a base for the construction professionals to start with. They can also be useful to gain necessary permissions form the authorities.

2. PDF can safeguard interests of professionals

Since it is not possible to edit PDF files they can be very useful for protecting one’s financial and professional interests. The architect and designers can handover 2D drawings in PDF format to clients or other architects for review. They can’t make changes to it. However, beyond it PDF can’t be used for onsite construction and if construction professionals need to utilize it for any other purpose like design alteration, renovation etc. it requires CAD conversion.

Reasons to Employ PDF to CAD Conversion:

There are significantly two main reasons why PDFs must be converted into CAD files. They are as below:

1. CAD Conversion is necessary when the files need to be further edited:

The PDF platform is an independent one and hence in order to view PDF files there is no need to buy expensive license. It is also however, non-editable. That means that while one can look at the file, zoom in to view the details they can’t edit anything. While it avoids file tampering it also means that there is no further work that is possible. When there are renovations and reconstruction projects on the line there needs to be changes that need to be done in existing CAD drawings. These updated 2D drawings will act as a base for further onsite work. For this the PDF will need to be converted into CAD files.

2. Raw PDF files are complicating to operate

The PDF files also doesn’t leave any space for collaboration. It can’t be overlapped during the various stages. Moreover, in the design phase the architects and designers require several layers of images of building components, MEP assemblies etc. to be bundled together so that a consolidated view can be provided. Here, PDF files can’t be seamlessly overlapped in order to give a concise view. Thus, by converting PDF into CAD files it is possible to not just gain a comprehensive view but it can also be reviewed and adjusted.

Thus, PDF though has certain advantage when it comes to onsite construction or reconstruction it is only CAD files that are useful. It here PDF to CAD conversion becomes essential. Tesla Outsourcing Services is an CAD Company providing comprehensive Drafting solutions which includes structural, MEP and Architectural Drafting Services along with Scan to CAD, Paper to CAD and PDF to CAD Conversion solutions. Our 14+ experience, a multidisciplinary team and client-centric approach is our biggest asset. Our ability to provide high-quality deliverables in quick turnaround time makes us the ideal company for your CAD requirements.

Written By:
Dhvani Badheka

Dhvani is an irreverent writer who has over 4 years of experience under her belt. She is a life-long learner and a quick study which provides her articles a unique insight. She is always reading, researching new materials and trying to expand her knowledge of the AEC industry so that she can create interesting and valuable content.