How To Read Construction Drawings

You’d be surprised how many people, even those leading construction projects, struggle with reading construction drawings. It’s not just about looking at a set of plans; there’s a pattern to it that the best builders know. Let me be clear: builders read plans, brokers don’t. Brokers send people out to the field. So, if you want a fail-safe way to read construction drawings every time, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in! Why Reading Construction Drawings is Critical This is my jam! Whenever I teach project engineers or field engineers, I emphasize this: no one walks into the construction industry knowing how to read drawings. It’s like learning a new language. You may get the gist of it at first, but to solve real problems and answer questions on a job site, you need to dive deep. Follow this approach, and you’ll be equipped to handle any project, no matter how complex. Whether you prefer a printed half-size set of drawings or use digital tools like Blue beam or Pro core, treasuring your plans is key to becoming a true builder. Once you have that deep respect for your drawings, that’s when you know you’re on the right path. Best Practices for Reading Construction Drawings

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Title Block Whether you’re dealing with blueprints or modern construction drawings, always start with the title block. Learn the naming conventions, disciplines, and structure of the drawings. It sets the foundation for everything else.
2. Understand Symbols and Abbreviations Spend time in the “front-matter” of the drawings—the symbols, abbreviations, and general notes. This is where you’ll learn the “language” of the plans. Every design team has a unique style, so understanding these elements is crucial.
3. Review General Notes and Typical Details It’s not the most exciting part, but these sections contain essential information. For example, how long you must wait before applying waterproofing or key structural provisions. Highlight these details; they can save your schedule later on.
4. Follow the Drawing Sequence Start with the plan views and work through the details. Highlight or mark up as you go to ensure you understand everything. I love using physical drawings for this, but digital tools work just as well.
5. Reference the Site Plan Always cross-check the building with the site plan. This ensures you understand how it interacts with adjacent streets, structures, and the overall environment.
6. Focus on Specific Disciplines Concentrate on one discipline at a time. For instance, you might start with the structural drawings before diving into the MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) and architectural aspects.
7. Pay Attention to Section Views Section views give you a 3D perspective. Make sure to track these along with other details to build a mental image of how the building will come together.
8. Look for Revision Clouds Revision clouds show where changes have been made. Always note these to ensure you’re working with the most up-to-date information.
9. Coordinate with Specifications Don’t ignore the specifications. They may seem like a lot of reading, but they contain critical details, especially regarding testing and inspections.
10. Seek Clarification If something doesn’t make sense, ask! You might need to submit an RFI (Request for Information) or get a second opinion.
11. Stay Up to Date Always ensure your drawings—whether digital or printed—are up to date. Nothing can slow down a project like outdated plans.

Dive into MEP Drawings and Soils Reports Two areas that often get overlooked are the MEP drawings and soils reports. Don’t shy away from them! MEP drawings, especially the single-line diagrams, are crucial for scheduling and understanding the scope of work for those trades. Also, always read the soils report. It’s often part of the project exhibits but may not be packaged with the drawings. The soils report informs you about the ground conditions and how to prepare the site properly, which can save you from major issues later on. Final Thoughts Learning to read construction drawings is an essential skill that separates great builders from the rest. If you follow these steps and take the time to study your drawings, you’ll have a strong grasp on any project you’re managing. And remember, this is a skill you can continually improve.