Using the Grid Tool to Place Beams

You can use the Grid tool to select grid lines to place beams automatically between other structural elements (columns, structural walls, and other beams). For example, you might have 2 structural columns located on a grid line. Beams are also added between columns and structural walls.

To place beams using the Grid tool

1. Click Structure tabStructure panel Beam.
2. Click Modify | Place beam tabMultiple panelOn Grids.
3. Select the grid to place beams.
   

   Selecting the grid

   The beams are placed between columns as shown.

   

   Placing beams between columns

The grids in a project are a valuable tool in setting up beams, as well as columns. A selected span of grid lines can automatically place beams.

To sketch beams automatically using the Grid tool

1. Click Structure tabStructure panel Beam.
2. On the Properties palette:
   • Select a beam type from the Type Selector drop-down.
   • Modify the beam parameters.
3. On the Options Bar, select a value from the Structural Usage drop-down list.
4. Click Modify | Place Beam tabMultiple panelOn Grids.

   In the image below, you can see assorted columns, a beam, and structural walls in a plan and 3D view. In this case, you can use the Grid tool to add the majority of the beams automatically.

   

5. Select a grid line along which you want to place a beam.

   Press and hold Ctrl to select multiple grids.

   In the image shown below, grids have been selected and beams have been added automatically between all columns, walls, and beams.

   
6. Click Modify | Place Beam > On Grid LinesMultiple panelFinish.
   Tip: You can also draw a pick box to select multiple grid lines.

   In the image below, notice how the beams were added between all columns, walls, and other supporting beams. The pre-existing beam was not cut by the beam perpendicular to it.

   

When Revit places beams along a grid line, it uses the following conditions:

• All the possible supports that intersect the grid line, such as columns, walls, or beams, are scanned.
• If a wall is on the grid line, a beam is not placed in the wall. The ends of the wall are used as support.
• If a beam intersects and crosses the grid line, that beam is considered to be an intermediate support, because this beam supports new beams created on the grid line.
• If a beam intersects but does not cross the grid line, this beam is supported by a new beam created on the grid line.

For more information about beam structural usage, based on which elements are being created, see Structural Usage of Beams.

Related topics

• Creating Beams
• Beam Properties
• Beams