How Much Does 3D Laser Scanning Cost?

How Much Does 3D Laser Scanning Cost?

The cost of 3D laser scanning a building or site depends on the size and complexity of what is being scanned. GPRS can price 3D laser scanning jobs quickly because we have experience in all industries for all scopes of work. We work with clients to determine what site data needs to be collected and what deliverables need to be created.

Here is a list of items a GPRS Project Manager will assess when determining the scope and cost of your 3D laser scanning project.

• Location
• Scope of work
• Square footage
• Site images
• Site plans
• Building or site complexity
• Building or site access and occupancy
• Deliverables
• Level of detail (if CAD drawings or 3D modeling is needed)
• Project timeline
• Special requirements such as night or weekend scanning

For 3D laser scanning pricing call 419-843-7226 or email Laser@gprsinc.com.

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What can be 3D laser scanned?

3D laser scanning can essentially capture any site that requires high accuracy for documentation, analysis, or virtual exploration. 3D laser scanning can be used to capture a wide range of buildings and sites, including:

• Construction Sites
• Architecture, Adaptive Reuse
• Historic Buildings, Museums, Churches & Monuments
• Agricultural Facilities
• Industrial, Manufacturing & Distribution Facilities
• Office Buildings & Commercial Buildings
• Oil & Gas Facilities
• Power Plants & Process Plants
• Real Estate
• Recreation, Retail & Restaurant Locations
• Energy & Utilities
• Stadiums, Arenas, Theaters & Convention Centers
• Telecommunication Sites
• Government, Defense & Military Sites
• Schools & Universities
• Hospitals, Healthcare & Pharmaceutical Facilities
• Subsurface Utility & Concrete Markings
• HVAC & MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) Features
• Water & Wastewater Treatment Plants
• Accident Sites & Incident Scenes
• 3D Tree Architecture
• Residential Properties, Homes & Apartments
• Infrastructure Projects, Bridges, Tunnels, Airports

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Is 3D Laser Scanning Affordable?

The cost of 3D laser scanning varies depending on the project size and complexity, type of scanning completed, deliverables created, and level of accuracy desired. Over the past couple of years, the price of 3D laser scanning has come down considerably. Advances in scanning technology has helped 3D laser scanning and BIM modeling become much more affordable options.

For 3D laser scanning pricing call 419-843-7226 or email Laser@gprsinc.com.

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The Cost of 3D Laser Scanning Depends on Three Factors:

1. Project Size and Complexity

-Small Projects: The 3D laser scanning of small spaces such as an office, retail store, or mechanical room usually involve one day of scanning, resulting in lower costs compared to larger or more complex environments.

-Medium Projects: The 3D laser scanning of medium spaces like commercial office buildings, warehouses, or a historical site requires more detailed scanning, potentially over multiple rooms or areas, which increases the complexity and cost compared to small spaces.

-Large Projects: The 3D laser scanning of large manufacturing or industrial facilities, hospitals, stadiums, theaters, campuses, and complex infrastructure projects involves multiple scanning setups, extensive data processing, and a higher level of detail, increasing the complexity and cost of the process.

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2. Type of Scanning

-Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS): Terrestrial laser scanning uses a tripod-based laser scanner to capture highly accurate data of buildings, structures, equipment, and utilities to plan for construction, renovation, and modifications. Terrestrial laser scanning is a non-contact and non-destructive technology that digitally captures the shape of physical objects using LiDAR technology. In addition, it can capture digital photos of the same area being scanned, which can be used to create photorealistic 3D models.

-3D Photogrammetry: Photogrammetry uses a 3D camera, which can also be equipped with LiDAR, to digitally document buildings, facilities, and sites with high-resolution photographs.

-Aerial or Drone Scanning:  GPRS drone services feature high-resolution cameras and LiDAR sensors to capture video, images, and point clouds of buildings, sites, and infrastructure to create 2D maps, orthomosaic maps, 2D CAD drawings, 3D models, 3D meshes, and full 3D fly throughs containing accurate geographical location information.

-Utility Locating: Locate and map existing underground infrastructure such as power lines, gas lines, pipelines, water lines, sewer lines, potential voids, and additional buried facilities and utility lines with GPRS utility locating services that utilize ground penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic (EM) locating technology.

-Concrete Scanning: Locate, identify, and mark utilities and objects such as rebar, post tension cables, beams, conduits, and piping embedded within concrete slabs and structures with concrete scanning using GPR prior to anchoring, cutting, coring, and drilling.

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3. Deliverables Required

What deliverables do you need for your project? Adding deliverables to a 3D laser scanning project will increase the cost because of the extra time, labor, and expertise required to process the raw scan data into usable formats.

The GPRS Mapping & Modeling team will produce custom deliverables for your project, ranging from point clouds, 2D CAD drawings, 3D BIM models, 3D mesh models, TruViews, 3D virtual tours, 3D photogrammetry, drone imagery, plus 2D and 3D utility locating and concrete scanning files.

Deliverables can be provided at any level of detail in a variety of formats including Revit, AutoCAD, ReCap, Navisworks, Civil 3D, BIM 360, A360, and more.

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3D Laser Scanning Deliverables:

-Point Clouds: The basic output from 3D laser scanning is a point cloud, which is the collection of x, y, z data points representing every detail of the site. This is the least expensive deliverable, it often requires some clean-up (removal of noise, redundant points, etc.) to be usable. Clients can import the point cloud into CAD and BIM software to visualize the area. The data will look like a pixelated, digital version of the site. Point clouds can be used to visualize spaces or objects in three dimensions. Clients can extract precise measurements (distances between points, surface areas, volumes, etc.) directly from the point cloud. Point clouds can also be used to detect deformations, cracks, or structural issues in buildings, bridges, or industrial equipment by comparing the scanned data with original design plans.

Deliverable: Black and White, Intensity Map, Colorized, PTG or E57 point cloud files and Autodesk Recap files in .rcs and .rcp format.
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-2D CAD Drawings: Point cloud data is imported into AutoCAD software to create precise 2D CAD drawings or as-built drawings. Site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, details, isometric drawings, reflected ceiling plans (RCPs), and more canbe created for construction planning and building modifications. 2D CAD software allows technicians to document and annotate drawings with text, dimensions, leaders, and tables. Data can be parsed, manipulated and modified to suit a client’s needs.

Deliverable: 2D CAD drawings in .rvt, .dwg, .dgn, or .pdf formats
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-3D BIM Models: A 3D BIM model provides a geometrically accurate model of a building or site, capturing spatial relationships, infrastructure and manufacturer details, as well as property and layer information and other pertinent aspects of the site. 3D BIM models provide clients with the ability to break down building parts by elements or layers and see how they fit into a single finalized structure. Clients can isolate walls, columns, windows, doors, etc., and alter the design. 3D BIM models are revolutionizing the way projects are delivered across industries, adding intelligence and efficiency to project execution.

Deliverable: 3D models in software such as Revit, AutoCAD, Microstation, Solidworks, Navisworks, etc.

Modeling Options: Standard Detail, High Detail, Very High Detail
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-3D Mesh Models: A 3D mesh in .fbx, .stl, .obj, and .ply file formats can be created from a point cloud. GPRS’s Mapping & Modeling Team use the data set of x ,y, z coordinates to generate a triangulated mesh from the 3D points. Meshes are volumetrically accurate, high density, and high resolution. Meshes allow clients to view the object’s geometry inside a CAD environment without having to navigate a point cloud. Files are delivered in a compact, easy to use format. Meshes can be used for representing scanned elements with fine, organic details such as monuments and statues that are otherwise difficult to reproduce in CAD. Mesh files of stadiums and arenas have been used to develop mixed reality experiences during sporting events.

Deliverable: 3D mesh in .fbx, .stl, .obj, and .ply file formats.
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-TruViews: TruView is a file used in portable software designed for easy and intuitive sharing of point clouds, design models, mark-ups and more. TruViews are 3-dimensional photographs overlaid on top of the point cloud data. Since the TruViews are overlaid on the scan data, clients are able to take basic dimensions directly from the viewer for estimating clearances, and distances, etc. TruViews are useful for those who have not travelled to the site and for those who have been to the site but need to recall specific details of a particular area.

Deliverable: TruView portable software allows you to open and view the LGS format of the point cloud published by GPRS, as well as overlay IFC (3D Model) files.
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-3D Virtual Tours from Point Cloud: A 3D virtual tour from a point cloud is an interactive, digital model of a physical space created by stitching together millions of spatial data points captured by the 3D laser scanner. It can be navigated virtually, allowing clients to explore an accurate 3D representation of the space, often down to millimeter-level precision. 3D virtual tours are particularly useful in fields like construction, engineering, and architecture, where detailed spatial measurements and high accuracy are essential for planning, analysis, and visualization.

Deliverable: A customizable MP4 video file format flythrough or point cloud flythrough from Recap.

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-Advanced Analysis & Calculations: GPRS provides high-precision, custom analysis and calculations, such as dimensional callouts, tank calibration analysis, prefabrication of panels, accident analysis, floor flatness and levelness analysis (FF & FL), deviation analysis, deformation analysis, new construction verification, volume calculations, wall plumb analysis, staircases, elevator shaft analysis, and so much more.

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3D Photogrammetry Deliverables:

3D rendered images can be used to create 3D virtual tours, 2D floorplans, progressive construction capture, 2D CAD plan views, and more for planning, analysis, and calculations.

-WALKTHRU 3D VIRTUAL TOURS: This 360° virtual tour provides clients a way to navigate through a digital, 3D representation of a physical space. They are commonly used in real estate, architecture, construction, and retail, helping clients view spaces remotely as if they were physically present, with options to zoom, rotate views, and access annotated details about features in the environment.

-FLRPLN: Turn the 3D photogrammetry virtual tour into a 2D floorplan of your project for record-keeping, renovation design & planning, sales & insurance, risk mitigation, and emergency planning.

-PROCAP: Capture construction progress, from pre-pour to MEP installation to closeout to document project details. By capturing scans regularly, clients can track the evolution of the site, monitor construction milestones, and ensure that work is proceeding according to schedule.

-TRUBUILT: 2D CAD plan views can integrate your infrastructure – above and below ground – to provide accurate existing conditions as-builts or TruBuilts for your entire site or facility for reference, maintenance, and renovation projects.

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Drone Deliverables:

GPRS offers rectified photogrammetry, aerial video and images, LiDAR scans, 2D orthomosaic images, CAD drawings, 3D models, and 3D fly throughs thanks to our state-of-the-art drones operated by FAA Licensed pilots.

-Aerial Photo and Video: FAA-licensed UAV pilots capture high-resolution digital images and video of large sites quickly and efficiently.

-Photogrammetry: The 3D coordinates from overlapping photographs deliver precise as-built dimensions and distances, and 3D models for planning and analysis.

-LiDAR Point Clouds: Drones equipped with LiDAR capture accurate 3D maps in point clouds and can be turned into a 3D mesh and 3D models.

-Orthomosaic Maps: Geo-referenced 2D maps (orthomosaics) are created from drone photos, corrected, stitched, and georeferenced for accuracy.

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Utility Locating Deliverables:

-Field Markings & GPS Mapping: Clients receive utility locate field markings in the form of paint, pin flags, stakes, or any other method they request. Additionally, each GPRS Project Manager creates a GPS map with detailed marking located on appropriate coordinate systems and produces automated maps for utility locates. Deliverables will be sent via email and will include a link to a free SiteMap^® personal subscription to access, store and securely share site data.

Deliverable: Field markings and a submittal letter with links to download printable PDF map, KMZ, and SHP files.
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-Utility CAD Files: GPRS can create CAD files documenting our utility locating results. The CAD files come ready to use with annotation and scaling, saving clients’ resources and time. Contractors, engineers, and owners can quickly develop or update as-built drawings. Clients use these files for preplanning, to avoid utilities, or to document the history of their site on various CAD and GIS systems.

Deliverable: DWG and/or DGN CAD files, JPEG image files, and a 2D CAD PDF.

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-Drone Imagery CAD: GPRS has access to a drone pilot network that provides aerial imagery for your project site as an additional service across the country. Our drones allow us to create high-quality aerial images showing GPRS paint and markers on the ground and the on-site conditions at the time of flight. The drones can fly in and record immediately after our Project Managers finish marking the field.

Deliverable: DWG and/or DGN CAD files, drone background image geo TIF file, an obj mesh file, an XYZ point cloud, and/or a 2D CAD PDF.

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Concrete Scanning Deliverables:

-3D or 2D CAD Reinforcement Locate: GPRS creates 2D CAD of the concrete marking captured in the virtual tour or point cloud.  We annotate and overlay the clients' drawings if available. If current plans do not exist, a floor plan will be created using the exports available in the virtual tour processing system we utilize, that is also included in this CAD service offering. Further development of the data into 3D models of the project can be created per the client’s specification for additional fees.

Deliverable: DWG and/or DGN CAD Files, JPEG files of floor or ceiling, 2D CAD PDFs, point clouds, 3D BIM models, and/or 3D mesh files

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-3D Virtual Tour: GPRS can implement 3D cameras or 3D laser scanners at your site to document all concrete scanning findings. GPRS uses these cameras to create a floor plan of your site with our results added as linework, or to create 3D virtual tours and point clouds. Our 3D virtual tour utility lets your team tour the location, add digital notes, and even measure inside the point cloud viewer.

Deliverable: 90-day access to the virtual tour site (this access can be extended as needed).

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-Hand Sketch to 2D or 3D CAD: The GPRS Mapping & Modeling Team can translate concrete field markings into a permanent digital record of our findings. Our CAD files document the vertical and horizontal positions of reinforcements. We can even overlay the existing floor plan with our data. This information management ensures that scan results are well-documented and can be utilized long after the concrete scan is complete.

Deliverable: DWG and/or DGN CAD files, background image JPEG files, and a PDF plan print out of the CAD sheets.

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We Are a Trusted Partner for 3D Laser Scanning

We work with every client to clearly define a project scope so they get what they are expecting and can avoid spending a lot of money on something that is unusable.

We want to partner with you and provide the highest quality laser scanning services at a reasonable cost. GPRS Laser Scanning has become a trusted partner to many engineers, project managers, architects, designers, developers, owners and other building professionals. We want to build long term relationships. Our services help clients avoid change orders, rework and construction delays.

It's Not Always About The Price

The 3D laser scanning company that bids the lowest price could be taking shortcuts on quality. Be sure to ask the laser scanning service about the equipment, employees and software. A lower priced 3D laser scanning quote could have the following:

• The equipment could be outdated
• The equipment could not have been calibrated recently
• The employees could be unqualified or inexperienced
• The deliverables could be created with unlicensed software
• Employees who arrive onsite may be subcontractors and not affiliated with the company you hired
• The onsite crew may be uninsured

GPRS will be price-competitive in the industry without sacrificing quality. We solely focus on 3D laser scanning and modeling. Having scanned and modeled thousands of projects in many industries, we have a vast portfolio and have many repeat clients that trust us to meet their standards and specifications. Our team works with integrity, passion and professionalism, upholding the highest standards in 3D laser scanning and modeling services. The individual or team that arrives on your project site will be respectful, insured, informed and dedicated to the success of your project.

How Much Does 3D BIM Modeling Cost?

A significant portion of the project cost can be in the deliverables…but it doesn't always have to be. Often times clients tell service providers that they want “everything” 3D modeled when, in reality, they only need a small area or certain specific feature modeled. For example, there is no reason to model every piece of steel in a building or every ½” pipe and conduit when the client may only need the steel of a particular platform or no conduit at all and only pipes that are greater than 2”. Some minor tweaks to the scope of the modeling can radically change the price of our BIM modeling services. Our Mapping and Modeling team can create anything from a simple GPS-enabled locating map of your utility locate, to highly-detailed 2D CAD drawings and 3D BIM models, depending on your needs.

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Do I Need a 3D Model for Every Project?

Some projects may not need a 3D model. In fact, many deliverables--such as clash detection, floor flatness analysis, prefabrication, wall plumbness, and orthoimages--are actually extracted directly from the point cloud. In addition, some 2D CAD drawings (floorplans, elevations, framing plans, and reflective ceiling plans) can also use the point cloud directly instead of needing to do line work by plotting the point cloud directly on the drawing, and it can even be used for construction documents.

Fair and Honest Pricing

If we have sent you a quote that is outside your budget, just let our team know. We can work with you to meet your budget, schedule, and scope requirements. We can execute projects in multiple stages. For instance, some clients will ask us to 3D scan and model one area of a building in an initial phase and revisit the remainder of the building at a later date. Some clients may only initially require a set of schematic floor plans.

Our pricing is transparent, there are no hidden fees and no surprises when you receive your invoice. The price in the proposal is what we will bill you for.

Contact us today at 419-843-7226 or Laser@gprsinc.com to discuss your business objectives and how we can help achieve them. We’re currently offering virtual presentation for your office – would you like to schedule one? Click here.

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Why Choose GPRS? The GPRS Difference.

GPRS is a leading provider of 3D laser scanning services in the United States, delivering accurate as-builts, point clouds, 2D CAD drawings, and 3D BIM models to expedite project planning. Our elite team of Project Managers utilize state-of-the-art equipment, software, and processes to document architectural, structural, and MEP system layout and dimensions for existing buildings, facilities, and sites.

For 3D laser scanning pricing call 419-843-7226 or email Laser@gprsinc.com.

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