AutoInsulate Help
Setup guidance, workflow instructions, and practical notes for Revit users working with AutoInsulate.
Before You Start
- Download AutoInsulate from the Autodesk App Store.
- The installer installs AutoInsulate for all supported Revit versions on your machine.
- Confirm the AutoInsulate command is visible in the TiMBIM ribbon.
- Check that the project contains the system and insulation types you want to target.
Main Workflow
- Open AutoInsulate from the TiMBIM ribbon.
- Select the insulation domain: pipe insulation, duct insulation, or duct lining.
- Use the context menu to add a new rule or duplicate an existing rule.
- Create or edit rules for size ranges, thickness values, and insulation types.
- Add exceptions when certain systems need different logic.
- Review the Apply Options to include pipe accessories, duct accessories, or flex ducts if needed.
- Apply insulation to the selection, active view, or full model.
New in v1.3.0: Auto Mode
Auto mode adds a session-based automation option for users who want AutoInsulate to keep working in the background while they model. When Auto mode is enabled from the TiMBIM ribbon, supported pipes, ducts, fittings, and accessories are automatically re-evaluated after creation or modification.
- Toggle Auto mode on or off from the TiMBIM ribbon.
- Use it to automatically apply your saved rules as supported elements are added or edited.
- Manual apply options are still useful when you want to process a selection, active view, or the full model on demand.
Rules and Model Storage
- AutoInsulate stores its rules directly in the Revit model.
- This makes it easy to keep project-specific rule sets together with the model.
- For a consistent starting point across projects, it is good practice to save your default rules in the company Revit template.
- Use JSON import and export if you want to copy settings between projects or teams.
Best Practices
- Start with a simple ruleset before adding many exceptions.
- Review your rules before enabling Auto mode so new or edited elements pick up the intended insulation behavior.
- Apply to a smaller scope first, such as the current selection or active view, before applying to the full model.
- Export settings before major edits so you have a backup copy.
- Keep system naming consistent to make rules easier to review and maintain.
Video Walkthrough
Watch a short overview of AutoInsulate in action, including the new Auto mode workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Revit versions are supported?
AutoInsulate supports Revit 2024 untill Revit 2027.
Can I reuse my rules across projects?
Yes. AutoInsulate supports JSON import and export so settings can be reused across projects and teams.
How can I copy or add rules quickly?
Use the context menu to add a new rule or duplicate an existing one when you want to build from something similar.
What does Auto mode do?
Auto mode automatically re-evaluates supported pipes, ducts, fittings, and accessories after creation or modification during the current Revit session.
How are priorities set for the rules?
Rules are applied from top to bottom, which allows later and more specific rules to override earlier ones.
What do the Apply Options do?
The Apply Options let you decide whether AutoInsulate should also include related elements such as pipe accessories, duct accessories, or flex ducts.
Where are the rules stored?
AutoInsulate stores its rules in the Revit model, so saving good default rules in the company Revit template is recommended.
Support Checklist
- Revit version
- AutoInsulate version
- Short problem description
- Screenshots if available
Recommended First Checks
- Check the selected insulation domain.
- Review rule order and exception order.
- Check the Apply Options before running model-wide changes.
- Use selection or active view first before applying to the full model.