Shop drawings vs As built drawings

by Milestone PLM Solutions Engineering Design & BIM Services in USA

In the dynamic realm of construction, precise documentation is paramount to the success of any project. Two key components in this documentation process are shop drawings and as-built drawings. While both play pivotal roles in ensuring the seamless execution of construction projects, they serve distinct purposes and cater to different stages of the project lifecycle.

Understanding Shop Drawings: Shop drawings are detailed illustrations or diagrams created by contractors, subcontractors, or fabricators to elucidate how specific components of a project will be manufactured, assembled, or installed. These drawings delve into the nitty-gritty details, providing a comprehensive guide for the construction team to follow. Shop drawings typically include dimensions, materials, fabrication methods, and other intricate specifications.

Importance of Shop Drawings:

Precision in Execution: Shop drawings act as a blueprint for the fabrication and installation processes. They ensure that every element is crafted with precision, conforming to the design and engineering specifications.
Collaboration and Communication: These drawings facilitate effective communication between different stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, and contractors. This collaborative approach helps in resolving potential issues before they escalate.
Compliance with Standards: Shop drawings are crucial for ensuring that the final product complies with industry standards and regulations. They help in verifying that the constructed elements meet the intended design and performance criteria.

Understanding As-Built Drawings: As-built drawings, on the other hand, document the actual conditions and dimensions of the completed project. They serve as a historical record of what was built, capturing any deviations from the original plans or shop drawings. As-built drawings are typically created during or after the construction phase, incorporating any modifications or changes made during the building process.

Importance of As-Built Drawings:

Record of Changes: As-built drawings provide an accurate record of any modifications made during construction. This is valuable for future renovations, maintenance, or potential expansions.
Facility Management: Once the project is complete, as-built drawings become instrumental in facility management. They help in identifying the location of utilities, structural components, and other critical elements.
Legal Documentation: As-built drawings can serve as crucial legal documentation in case disputes arise. They offer a factual representation of the constructed project, aiding in dispute resolution or insurance claims.

Distinguishing Factors:

Purpose and Timing: The primary distinction lies in their purpose and timing. Shop drawings are created before construction to guide the fabrication and installation processes, while as-built drawings are generated after construction to document the actual outcome.
Level of Detail: Shop drawings are highly detailed and specific, focusing on the intricacies of fabrication and installation. As-built drawings, while still detailed, capture the overall picture of the completed project, including any deviations from the original plans.

Conclusion:

In the realm of construction, shop drawings and as-built drawings play indispensable roles, albeit at different stages of the project lifecycle. While shop drawings lay the groundwork for precision and collaboration during construction, as-built drawings serve as a lasting record, capturing the evolution of the project and facilitating future management and modifications. Understanding the nuances of these two types of drawings is key to ensuring the success and longevity of any construction endeavor.