How to Modify an IFC File with an Editor

Need to revise a project and update your 3D IFC model? Has the condition of the building changed, requiring an update to the as-built model?

In most cases, modifying an IFC file means opening the model in BIM authoring software, making the required changes, and exporting the file again. But what if you do not have access to the original BIM software, or simply need a faster way to edit the IFC model directly?

With an IFC editor, you can modify an IFC file without going back to the original BIM authoring environment. You can intervene directly on the model’s properties, attributes, classifications, and even its geometry when necessary. This allows you to quickly update and manage IFC data while preserving interoperability and avoiding time-consuming rework.

In this article, I will show you how to edit an IFC file without using BIM authoring software, working directly on the model contents: object properties, attributes, classifications, and geometries

Why should I modify an IFC file?

Before moving on to the operational phase, let’s see why, in some cases, you might need to modify an IFC file.

You may have several reasons for modifying an IFC file.

Here are some examples:

• You might need to modify, add, or remove certain properties of the entities in your as built model (for instance, modifying the value of the thermal transmittance of the envelope because you have made a modification or a variation to the project and you don’t want to waste time returning to the BIM file, modifying it, and re-exporting it, or because you no longer have the software you used to generate the 3D project model);
• The need to add, move, modify, or remove objects from the IFC model without passing through a BIM authoring tool (for example, deleting a partition that has been removed in the variant project, changing the arrangement of furniture, etc.);
• To manage and update information freely throughout the entire lifecycle of construction without necessarily having the same software as those who, for example, worked on the project or those who are handling maintenance;
• To have free access to information throughout the entire lifecycle of construction, regardless of the BIM authoring tool used to generate the model.

I remind you that in a correct openBIM process, it is advisable that every modification made to the deliverables of the project is perfectly tracked and validated.

Why is modifying IFC files important in open BIM workflows?

An IFC file can be defined as a set of digital entities that describe construction elements, spaces, and systems, along with their properties and mutual relationships. Within the file, there are geometries, technical data, spatial structures, and classification systems that comprehensively define the information model.

Each object (walls, floors, systems, spaces) is described both from a physical and an informational perspective. For this reason, every change directly affects the consistency and the reliability of the model.

In a process based on IFC format and openBIM, the IFC file becomes the shared reference point among different disciplines. The model can be generated with different software, but it remains consultable, verifiable, and updateable by all parties involved. This eliminates dependence on a single tool and allows work on an open information model.

The ability to directly modify the IFC file addresses very concrete operational needs:

• updating the as-built model without having to rebuild or re-export the original models;
• correcting inconsistencies identified during interdisciplinary coordination (clash detection, classification errors, incomplete data);
• intervening on models received from third parties, even in the absence of the software with which they were produced;
• quickly adjusting information for energy analyses, quantities, maintenance, or project management;
• working on federated models without having to separately modify the individual disciplinary files.

One often overlooked aspect is the continuity and reliability of data over time. An IFC file is not limited to the design phase: it accompanies the project throughout construction, facility management, and maintenance. Being able to intervene directly on the IFC format makes it possible to keep the model continuously updated across the entire building lifecycle.

At the same time, it is important to remember that an IFC model is far more than a simple graphical file. It contains a structured set of geometries, information, and logical relationships between objects. Uncontrolled modifications can compromise interoperability with other software, alter critical data, or create inconsistencies between the model’s geometry, properties, and connected elements.

For this reason, it is always advisable to:

• verify the changes made;
• check the consistency of the entered data;
• keep track of revisions;
• validate the model before sharing.

Advantages of direct editing of IFC files

How to Edit an IFC File Online

If you need to make changes to the properties, attributes, or categories of an IFC file and do not want to install any software on your PC, you can use an IFC editor online.

This way, you do not need to install software on your PC, and you can work from anywhere with any internet-connected device (PC, tablet, and smartphone).

With usBIM.editor, you can intervene on individual entities of the IFC model, modify the data associated with objects, update classifications, and when necessary, also work on the geometric component of the model.

How to Modify Properties and Geometries of an IFC Model

Let’s take a practical example.

Suppose the IFC you need to modify is the result of the federation of three models (structural, architectural, MEP) produced with different BIM authoring. The IFC file is the “digital twin” (digital twin) of an existing building that has undergone changes over time (for example, the replacement of the boiler and the demolition of a partition).

Normally, to update the model and make it consistent with the current state, you would need to individually modify the 3 models (using 3 different BIM authoring!) and proceed again with the federation. With usBIM.editor, you can intervene directly on the federated model and modify the IFC file, optimizing costs and work time. The advantage is that you do not need to have the software with which the file was created.

To modify the IFC file online with usBIM.editor, follow these steps:

• log in to usBIM from any browser and enter your “My ACCA” account email and password;
• create a new folder and upload the IFC file you need to modify to the usBIM cloud;
• click the screen icon next to the uploaded file and choose the Edit option;
• select the object to modify by clicking on it with the mouse;
• modify the object’s attributes by clicking the Properties icon found at the top right;
• click on Edit attributes to change the Name and Description of the selected entity;
• click on Edit properties (at the bottom) to modify, delete, or add new properties to the selected object;
• click on Edit classifications to modify the classification of the selected entity;
• read the changes made to the selected object in the property toolbox.

Possible modifications with IFC editor

Try modifying the IFC file of the project you are working on and discover all the advantages of usBIM.editor.

Main modifications you can make with an IFC editor

An IFC editor allows you to directly intervene on the contents of the model, without going through the authoring software with which it was created. The modifications can concern both the data associated with the objects and their geometric representation and the internal relationships within the model.

The most frequent operations focus on four main areas.

• properties and attributes of objects: each IFC entity is associated with sets of properties (Property Set) that describe technical, performance, and management characteristics. With an IFC editor you can:
  • modify existing values (materials, performance, codes);
  • add new properties useful for calculations, analyses, or management;
  • delete unnecessary or inconsistent data;
  • update identifiers, names, and descriptions.
• classifications and codes: the classification of elements is essential to organize the model and link it to other processes (calculations, maintenance, management). You can therefore:
  • assign classification systems (e.g. UniClass, OmniClass);
  • correct incorrect or incomplete codes;
  • standardize the informational structure between models from different sources.
• geometry of elements: some editors allow direct intervention on the geometry of the model. These operations include:
  • insertion of new IFC objects;
  • deletion of elements no longer present in the actual state;
  • modification of position, dimensions, or orientation;
  • update of elements following design changes.
• relationships and structure of the model: in addition to single objects, it is possible to intervene on their organization and logical relationships. In particular:
  • management of spatial relationships (sites, buildings, floors, spaces);
  • modification of aggregations between elements;
  • review of connections between building and system components.

When working on an IFC model, it is important to consider that each element is part of a system of relationships. An isolated modification that is not consistent with the rest of the model can compromise the use of the file in subsequent phases, such as coordination or technical analyses.

For this reason, it is good practice to always verify the result of the modifications, both from a geometric and an informational point of view.

Possible modifications with IFC editor

Common Problems in Editing IFC Files and How to Solve Them

Editing an IFC file can highlight issues related to the quality of the model, export methods, or information management. These problems often arise when the file comes from different software or from uncoordinated workflows.
Below are the most common cases and their respective solutions.

Missing or Inconsistent Information

It may happen that some properties are missing or are incomplete or outdated. This often occurs when the IFC file has been exported without including all the property sets or with incorrect configurations.
How to intervene:

• check for the presence of the necessary property sets;
• manually integrate the missing properties;
• verify the consistency of the data concerning the model’s objectives (quantity takeoff, analysis, management).

Simplified or Non-Editable Geometries

Some elements may be difficult to modify because they derive from complex geometries or from exports that “lock” the object’s structure.
How to intervene:

• evaluate whether to replace the element with a new one that is easier to manage;
• use editors that allow the creation of custom IFC objects;
• check the level of detail (LOD) of the model.

Unreadable Model Structure

An IFC model may present a disorganized hierarchy, with elements not correctly associated with planes, spaces, or systems.
In these cases, it becomes useful to understand the logic with which the entities are organized. Knowledge of the architecture of the IFC file helps to correctly interpret the model structure and intervene without altering its functionality.
How to intervene:

• reorganize the elements within the spatial structure;
• correct spatial and aggregation relationships;
• eliminate duplications or incorrect associations.

Compatibility Issues Between IFC Versions

Differences between versions (IFC2x3, IFC4, etc.) may cause data loss or unexpected behaviors during editing.
How to intervene:

• use IFC versions consistent with the workflow;
• avoid repeated conversions between different versions;
• always check the file after exporting or editing.
  Inconsistency between geometry and data.

A modification may update the geometry without changing the properties, or vice versa. This generates errors in subsequent phases (analysis, quantity takeoff, management).
How to intervene:

• always check both the geometric and informative parts;
• verify that the properties reflect the actual state of the element;
• perform final checks before sharing.

A systematic review of the model after each intervention allows for quick identification of any anomalies and ensures proper use of the file in the subsequent phases of the BIM process.

Problems and solutions in editing IFC files

Tips for managing IFC file versions after modifications

When working with IFC files, version management has a direct impact on model quality and collaboration among the various stakeholders involved. Every modification must be identifiable, verifiable, and traceable over time.

An IFC file is often shared across multiple disciplines (architectural, structural, and MEP). Without clear revision control, it becomes difficult to determine which version is up to date and what changes have been introduced.

To avoid errors and overlaps, it is advisable to adopt the following operational practices.

• File naming and organization:
  • use clear and sequential file names (e.g., building_rev01.ifc, building_rev02.ifc);
  • include, when necessary, the date or discipline (e.g., MEP, STR, ARC);
  • avoid overwriting files without maintaining a version history.
• Change tracking:
  • associate each version with a brief description of the implemented changes;
  • distinguish between minor revisions (corrections) and major revisions (design changes);
  • maintain a shared change log among team members.
• Management in a shared environment:
  • use cloud platforms or CDEs (Common Data Environment) to store files;
  • take advantage of systems with automatic versioning;
  • limit editing permissions to reduce the risk of errors.
• Control and validation:
  • check the model after every significant modification;
  • compare versions to identify differences;
  • validate the file before official sharing.

These practices are particularly important in IFC file management workflows for MEP design, where multiple models and disciplines must be continuously coordinated. Accurate version control helps reduce clashes and ensures consistency between MEP systems, structural elements, and architectural components.

Video tutorial

In this short video, I show you all the steps to follow to edit an IFC file, using online usBIM.editor.

FAQ on Modifying IFC Files

Is it possible to modify an IFC file without using BIM authoring software?

Yes. You can modify an IFC file with an IFC editor, without necessarily opening the model in the BIM authoring software with which it was generated. This solution is useful when you need to quickly update properties, attributes, classifications, or geometries of the model.

When can it be useful to edit an IFC file directly?

It can be useful when you need to update an as-built model, correct incomplete data, make changes to a model received from third parties, or adjust information for analysis, quantities, maintenance, or management of the work. It is also a practical solution when you do not have access to the original software used to create the model.

When is it advisable NOT to modify an IFC file directly?

There are cases where it is better to return to the original BIM model:

• complex or structural design changes;
• the need to maintain advanced parametric logics;
• updates involving many disciplines simultaneously;

What information can I modify in an IFC file?

With an IFC editor, you can intervene on attributes, properties, classifications, and codes of the objects. Depending on the operations to be performed, you can also add, delete, replace, or modify elements of the model, updating both the informational and geometrical parts.

Can I modify the geometry of an IFC model?

Yes. It is possible to intervene on the geometry of the model, for example by adding new IFC objects, deleting elements that are no longer present in the actual state, changing the position, size, or orientation of the objects, and updating elements following design variants.

Why is modifying an IFC file important in openBIM workflows?

In openBIM workflows, the IFC file allows working on an open informational model, shared among different disciplines and independent of the software with which it was generated. Modifying it allows you to keep geometries, properties, and information up to date throughout the construction lifecycle.

What should I check after modifying an IFC file?

After each modification, it is advisable to verify the model’s consistency, check the entered data, keep track of revisions, and validate the file before sharing. It is important to check both the geometrical and informational parts to avoid inconsistencies between objects, properties, and relationships.

What problems can arise during the modification of an IFC file?

The most common problems relate to missing or inconsistent information, simplified or difficult-to-modify geometries, poorly readable model structure, incompatibility between IFC versions, and inconsistencies between geometry and data. Therefore, it is useful to perform systematic checks after each intervention.

How to manage versions of modified IFC files?

It is advisable to use clear and progressive file names, avoid overwriting files without keeping a historical version, associate a short description of the changes with each version, and maintain a shared log. In collaborative workflows, it is useful to store files in cloud platforms or CDE with versioning systems.

How can I avoid “damaging” the IFC model during modifications?

It is important to adopt a controlled approach:

• make progressive and verifiable changes;
• check the relationships between elements after each intervention;
• use IFC validation tools.

Are there tools to check the quality of an IFC file after modification?

Yes, there are various tools dedicated to checking the quality of IFC models. Some are designed for model checking, that is, to verify rules and data consistency, while others focus on visual analysis or interference between elements. More and more often, these functionalities are integrated into collaborative platforms that allow continuous checks during the workflow.