20 Types of Drawings Commonly Used in Building Design

Drafting a construction plan before starting the construction process is imperative. It offers a detailed view of the entire structure. However, different types of drawings are used to provide the architectural, structural, and technical details in an easy-to-follow format. They set the guidelines for the construction process while ensuring compliance with the applicable building codes and standards. 

Let’s take a look at the different types of construction drawings and understand how they enable engineers and architects to convey their concepts and ideas regarding any structure. 

 

Site Plan: It offers an aerial view of the project site including the adjoining structures, roads, pavements, etc. Its wide-ranging applications include understanding the scope of construction, the topography of the building, and making improvements.

   

Floor Plan: They provide a detailed version of the structure’s layout and can be created for residential, commercial, or industrial projects. Common applications include the understanding of different dimensions and installations for making optimal use of available space. 

Elevation: They help architects understand the height and the facing of a building in the context of the direction of the sun and wind. Other details include the internal and external markings inclusive of the dimensions of doors and windows.   

Working Plan: The engineering designers create construction plans to give an understanding of the scope of the project. This ensures convenience and precision when fabricating the construction material based on the overall design. A legend is also included to provide all the details about the different components.  

Section Drawings: As the name implies, section drawings depict the entire structure in slices to help differentiate the key structures in the context of adjoining components. Further, they also provide details of the different material types used in the construction.  

General Note: The general note does not include any drawings but detailed data about the buildings. It includes legends, by-laws, construction type, codes, mapping forms, length, abbreviations, and every vital information. 

As-Built Drawings: They compare the original plan with what has been built. Many times contractors change the construction pattern & design due to circumstantial conditions. As-built drawings are typically created while the construction process is ongoing or after the structure is completed. 

Shop Drawings: Act essentially as a construction guide that represents how a certain object is to be manufactured or installed while ensuring compliance with the original design and object specifications.

Detail Drawings: They represent different types of geometric structures in the building whether it is a small commercial property or a large tunnel or a massive bridge. Detail drawings focus on the intricate design elements and details of a construction project.

Assembly Drawings: They depict the connection between two components in a structure showing how the different parts fit together. As-built drafting includes all kinds of patterns and designs including 3D, elevation, and sectional views. 

Column Layout: This plan is divided floor-wise and precisely defines the size and space between the columns of the structure. This makes it easier for the contractor to get a clear view of the complete building layout.

Plinth Beam Layout: They represent the length, position, and sectional design of all the plinth beams on every floor of the structure 

Lintel Beam Layout: These drawings depict the correct dimensions, positions, and the number of lintel beams on every floor.

Roof Slab Layout: These drawings provide a complete account of the floors, roofs, and faces of other surfaces that need accurate edge details. 

Framing Plans: These plans provide details about the framework, position of the beams, and dimensions for planning the layout of the floor, roof, and other vital structures of a building.

Component Drawings: These drawings are primarily referred to as the drawings provided by OEMs. They include all the details of the component to offer accurate insights into different sub-parts and markings.  

Engineering Drawings: These drawings act as a guide for the contractor and engineer, helping them work harmoniously and achieve the desired goals for the project. 

Electrical Drawings: They provide a detailed account of all electrical connections, lighting, fixtures, fans, switches, outlets, and everything else. Electrical drawings act as a support for electricians to understand the entire layout of the wiring and also indicate the details of HVAC systems and load capacity.

Plumbing Drawings: These construction plans highlight the markings and the location of the plumbing components including sanitary, water, and drainage pipes. It can also include the position of water outlets and taps on every floor. 

Environment Plans: Some construction projects are built around streams or rivers. In this case, environmental drawings talk about chemical disposal mechanisms and define plant removal procedures to attenuate the harmful effects.  

Concluding Thoughts  

Construction drawings work as a checklist and provide a clear overview of the project’s development and progress. They’re made at different stages and having them at hand makes it much easier for the contractor, engineer, supervisor, and construction worker to build a robust structure that is compliant and safe.

Report this Page