After you download and install the library, you might still get errors like "Missing Wall.rfa" when loading a window family. This happens because the window family is hosted (attached to a wall). The solution:
A quick search inside your library folder (Windows search: *.rfa) will locate the dependency within seconds.
This report outlines the procedure for locating, downloading, and installing the Revit Family Library for the 2018 release. Due to the age of the software version (Revit 2018), default installation paths and Autodesk Account interface options have changed. This document provides the necessary steps to ensure the complete library of imperial and metric families is available for use.
Once the installer file is downloaded:
| Error Message | Solution |
| :--- | :--- |
| "No default family template file specified" | Go to Options > File Locations > Default template file. Browse to Libraries\US Imperial\Templates\DefaultMetric.rte |
| "Cannot load family because it was saved in a newer version" | You downloaded a Revit 2020 family. You need 2018-specific files. Use the "Save as" function in a newer Revit to downgrade (limited success). |
| "Library folder is read-only" | Right-click the Libraries folder > Properties > Uncheck "Read-only" > Apply to all subfolders. |
| "Missing Imperial folder entirely" | You likely only installed Metric. Re-run the content installer and select "Imperial" as an additional language. | download revit family library 2018
Revit 2018 is considered a legacy version. Autodesk maintains an archive of content libraries for previous versions.
Notes and assumptions:
Quick checklist before using a downloaded family in production
If you want, I can:
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How to Download and Install Revit 2018 Family Libraries It is common for Revit users to find their family libraries or project templates missing after a fresh installation. This guide explains how to restore these essential assets for Revit 2018, whether through official Autodesk channels or trusted third-party BIM providers. 1. Official Autodesk Content Downloads
The most reliable way to get the full 2018 library (including Imperial and Metric content) is through the dedicated Autodesk Revit 2018 Content page .
Download the Executable: Locate the content pack for your specific language and region (e.g., US English, UK English, or German). After you download and install the library, you
Run as Administrator: Right-click the downloaded .exe file and select Run as Administrator to ensure the files extract correctly to the system folder.
Extraction Path: By default, files are extracted to C:\ProgramData\Autodesk\RVT 2018. Note that C:\ProgramData is a hidden folder by default in Windows. 2. Manual Installation via Autodesk Account
If the direct download links are unavailable, you can access content through your Autodesk Account: Sign in to your Autodesk Account Portal. Navigate to All Products and Services and find Revit. Select 2018 and click on Libraries or View Details. Download the specific regional content pack you require. 3. Setting the File Paths in Revit
After installing the library, you must tell Revit where to find it so it appears when you click "Load Family". Open Revit 2018 and go to File > Options > File Locations. Click the Places button. A quick search inside your library folder (Windows
Add a new path pointing to your library folder: C:\ProgramData\Autodesk\RVT 2018\Libraries\[Region Name]. 4. Third-Party BIM Libraries (Alternatives)
If you need specific manufacturer products or more modern families than the 2018 defaults, these platforms offer free, high-quality Revit families: Download Revit Content - Autodesk