So, you’re working on a building in Revit and need to add another floor. Or maybe a roof level? No problem! Adding a level in Revit is simple once you know where to look. Whether you’re a beginner or just need a quick refresher, this step-by-step guide will walk you through it.
TLDR (Too Long, Didn’t Read):
You can add a level in Revit from an elevation or section view. Open the correct view, use the Level tool, and draw your new level line. Make sure to name it properly and check your plan views. That’s it—you just leveled up!
What Is a Level in Revit?
A level represents a horizontal plane in your model. It’s like a floor or a story in a building. Anything you do—walls, floors, ceilings—depends on levels. Think of them as the skeleton of your project. They also help you stay organized.
Before You Start
Here are a few things you’ll need before adding a level:
- A Revit project open
- An elevation or section view (levels can’t be added from 3D or floor plans)
- A basic idea of where you want the new level
Ready? Let’s go!
Step 1: Open an Elevation or Section View
First, go to the Project Browser on the left side of your Revit workspace. Find an elevation view that shows your current levels. Common ones are:
- South Elevation
- North Elevation
- East Elevation
- West Elevation
Double-click one to open it.
Now you should see horizontal lines labeled “Level 1,” “Level 2,” and so on. This is where the magic happens.
Step 2: Activate the Level Tool
Click on the Architecture tab from the top menu. Then look for the Datum panel. Inside, you’ll find the Level icon. Click it.
Now your cursor changes to a crosshair with a little level symbol. You’re armed and ready!
Step 3: Draw the New Level
Click anywhere on the elevation view to start your level. Move the cursor horizontally and click again to end it. You’ve just drawn a new level!
Want to be more accurate? Revit lets you type in an exact height as you draw. Just start the line, then type the value (like “12000 mm” or “12 ft”) before finishing. Easy peasy.
Step 4: Rename the Level
By default, Revit will name it something like “Level 3.” You should give it a better name.
Double-click the name text next to the line. Then type something meaningful, like “Roof Level” or “Mechanical Floor.” Hit Enter and Revit will ask you if you want to rename all related views. Say “Yes” to keep it tidy.
Step 5: Adjust the Level Marker (Optional)
See those round heads on the end of the level line? They’re called markers. You can control whether they show up on the left, right, or both ends. To do this:
- Select the level line
- Click the blue circle on either end
- It will toggle visibility
This is helpful if your drawing looks cluttered or you only want level names on one side.
Step 6: Check the Floor Plan View
Go back to your Project Browser. Under the “Floor Plans” section, you should now see a new plan view named after your level.
If it’s not there, don’t panic. Here’s what to do:
- Go to View tab → Plan Views → Floor Plan
- Choose your new level from the list
- Click OK
Now you have a fresh new view to work from!
Bonus Tip: Copy Existing Levels
If your new level needs to match the spacing of others, use the Copy tool:
- Select the existing level
- Use “Copy” in the Modify tab
- Click to place a duplicate level above or below
Then rename it and adjust the height if needed. Saves tons of time when stacking floors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding levels in 3D or plan view: It won’t work! Always use an elevation or section.
- Forgetting to rename: Unnamed levels can get confusing fast.
- Hiding level heads: Make sure your markers are visible when needed.
- Missing plan views: Always confirm a floor plan is available for your new level.
Why Levels Matter
Levels are essential in Revit. They do more than just outline where floors go. They drive:
- View creation
- Wall and column heights
- Datum references
- Sheet organization
If your levels are off, everything else can fall apart. So take your time and get them right.
Quick Recap
- Open an elevation or section view
- Click the Level tool in the Architecture tab
- Draw the level line, set the height
- Rename it
- Check or create a floor plan view
Pro Tips
- Press ‘DL’ as a keyboard shortcut for the Level tool
- Use align (AL) to match levels with others quickly
- Use temporary dimensions to set precise elevation values
- Pin levels once they are in place to avoid accidental changes
Final Words
Adding a level in Revit is one of the first skills you should master. Why? Because everything else depends on it. Master this trick and you’re one step closer to becoming a Revit pro.
So go ahead, open that elevation view and draw in some levels. Your building deserves more floors!
