How do I ensure that my Revit families are not too heavy for effective use?

by Dennis Collin

Q. My family file size exceeds the file size guideline. What do I need to do to meet the recommended size limit?

The purge command is a very useful tool!

A. A common cause of large families is over modelling to an excessive level of detail. Only model what you need to see, use symbolic or model lines where possible. Purge the family and nested families of any unneeded values and delete any reference AutoCAD drawings that lie within components. A ‘tidy’ 94kb AutoCAD drawing can add over 500kb to the components file size. Wherever possible redraw lines and details with Revit linework to ensure maximum efficiency in performance. Also only add parameters to elements that only really need.

Fig. A simple drawing inserted into a Revit family can vastly bloat the components file size!