Building Recording

UAS photogrammetry is a cost-effective method for surveying places that are otherwise difficult to access, such as roofs and tall façades, without the need for scaffolding or ladders.

As well as providing a highly detailed photographic record, historic buildings can be preserved as a 3D model from which outputs, including orthographic elevations and point cloud data, can be utilised by architects, masons and engineers. The model itself, as well as the general aerial photographs, can also be used for publicity and media.

Above: 3D model of a building complex.

From the orthographic elevations, we are able to produce line drawings and stone-by stone drawings, generally as part of a historic building record.

Above: Example line drawing (left) and stone-by-stone drawing (right).

We can carry out Level 1 and Level 2 Historic Building surveys and reports, using general photography as well as photogrammetry. The photogrammetry enables for the production of orthographic photos which is useful for the production of phase plans.

Above: Example phase plan.

Above: Orthographic elevations.

Above: Ground plan from a Level 2 Historic Building report.

High-resolution photographs are captured sequentially in a grid, providing detailed snapshots of the roof and its features, including gutters, skylights, and chimneys. These images can also be stitched together in photogrammetry software to produce a single high-resolution photo, called an orthophoto, if required. Additional photos can be taken around the structure to show the facias, and the survey can be repeated with video to provide a thorough record of the roof.

Above: Close-up photo of a commercial building rooftop.

UAS photogrammetry can be combined with terrestrial laser scanning for Measured Building Surveys, often to survey inaccessible areas where the laser scanner can’t reach. The point cloud data from the photogrammetry can be integrated with the laser scan data to fill in any gaps, and the orthophotos can be used as backdrop for CAD drawings.