How do you change distance in Revit?

To change distance in Revit, you primarily move or adjust the elements themselves rather than directly manipulating a dimension's numerical display. While you can override a dimension's text to show a different value, this does not alter the actual physical distance between elements.

How to Adjust Actual Distances Between Elements

The most common and correct way to change distances in Revit is by moving or modifying the geometric elements that define that distance.

1. Using Temporary Dimensions

Revit automatically displays temporary dimensions when you select an element. These are highly effective for precise adjustments.

Select an Element: Click on the wall, floor, or other element you wish to move.
Locate Temporary Dimensions: Blue temporary dimensions will appear, often showing distances to nearby elements or grid lines.
Click on the Dimension Value: Click directly on the blue numerical value of the temporary dimension.
Enter New Value: Type in the desired new distance and press Enter. The selected element will move to achieve this new distance.
Move Witness Lines: If the temporary dimension isn't measuring from the correct reference point (e.g., measuring from the center of a wall when you need the face), click and drag the small blue squares (witness lines) at the ends of the temporary dimension to snap them to the desired reference.

2. Using the Move Command

For more direct movement of elements, the Move command is essential.

Select Elements: Select one or more elements you want to move.
Activate Move Command: Go to the Modify tab > Modify panel > Move (or type MV).
Specify Base Point: Click once to set the starting point of the move.
Specify Second Point or Enter Distance:
- Click a second time to define the destination point, or
- Move your cursor in the desired direction and type the exact distance, then press Enter.
Constraints: You can constrain movement horizontally, vertically, or at an angle by using the Ortho (F8) or Angle options in the Options Bar.

3. Using the Align Command

The Align command is perfect for making one element's edge or face align with another. This effectively changes the distance between them to zero or a precise offset.

Activate Align Command: Go to the Modify tab > Modify panel > Align (or type AL).
Select Reference Element: Click the face or edge of the element you want to align to.
Select Element to Align: Click the face or edge of the element you want to move.
Lock (Optional): After alignment, a small padlock icon may appear. Clicking this will create a constraint, meaning if you move the reference element, the aligned element will move with it.

4. Modifying Element Properties

Sometimes, changing the properties of an element itself can alter distances. For example:

Wall Thickness: Changing a wall's type to one with a different thickness will adjust its overall dimension and impact distances to other elements if aligned or constrained.
Offsets: For elements like floors, roofs, or ceilings, adjusting the Height Offset From Level or similar parameters will change their vertical distance from their host level.

How to Override a Dimension Value (Display Only)

While generally not recommended for accurate design, Revit allows you to override the displayed text of a dimension. It's crucial to understand that overriding a dimension does not change the actual physical distance between elements. For instance, if a wall-to-wall dimension measures exactly 4983mm, and you override it to display "5000mm," the walls themselves will still be 4983mm apart. This method only alters the visible text.

When to Consider Overriding a Dimension:

For schematic drawings where exact measurements aren't critical but a specific label is desired.
To add notes or custom text that includes a dimension.

Steps to Override a Dimension:

Select the Dimension: Click on the permanent dimension you wish to modify.
Edit Text: In the Options Bar or Properties Palette, locate the Dimension Text section.
Choose Custom Text:
- Select Value Override (or similar depending on Revit version/dimension type).
- Choose Replace with text from the dropdown.
Enter New Text: Type your desired text (e.g., "Approx. 5000", or just "5000") into