General construction: permits, planning, hiring
How to read construction drawings
A drawing set follows a standard order. Learn the sheet types, the symbols and the checks that catch errors early.
A drawing set follows a standard order. Learn the sheet types, the symbols and the checks that catch errors early.
Typical sheet order
- General: cover, index, notes, code summary.
- Civil and site: boundaries, grading, utilities.
- Architectural: plans, elevations, sections, details, schedules.
- Structural: foundation, framing, details.
- Mechanical, electrical, plumbing.
Sheet prefixes such as A, S, M, E and P are common; the index lists them.
The views
A plan is a horizontal cut seen from above; an elevation is a face of the building; a section is a vertical cut; a detail is an enlarged view showing how parts connect. Callout bubbles point from a plan or section to the sheet with the detail.
What to check
- Scale and units on each sheet.
- Dimensions that do not add up across plan and section.
- Notes that say "see structural" and whether that sheet exists.
- Schedules (doors, windows, finishes) against the plan.
- Revision clouds and the revision date.
Using them to buy
Quantities come from a takeoff of the drawings; see takeoff vs bill of quantities, and preparing drawings for a quotation.
Drawings versus spec
Drawings show where and how much; the written specification states quality and method. If they conflict, the contract usually says which governs. See reading a specification.
Quick answers
- What is a detail? A larger-scale drawing of a junction or assembly.
- Which governs, drawing or spec? Check the contract; commonly the more stringent or the spec, but it varies.
- Can I use drawings from the permit set to order? Only if marked for construction and current. Confirm revisions first.
Rules differ by country, state and city. Confirm requirements with your local authority having jurisdiction and with the licensed professionals on your project; nothing here is legal, engineering or financial advice.
Questions people ask
What is a detail?
A larger-scale drawing of a junction or assembly.
Which governs, drawing or spec?
Check the contract; commonly the more stringent or the spec, but it varies.
Can I use drawings from the permit set to order?
Only if marked for construction and current. Confirm revisions first.
Sources and further reading
Have a project outline or drawings?
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