CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS. How to get BASIC information from the drawings on construction site.

Summary

In this video, the host guides viewers through the fundamentals of reading construction drawings, focusing on essential details for civil and site engineering projects. Key topics include interpreting legends, understanding slab levels and thickness, distinguishing between dashed and solid lines, and analyzing sections and movement joints. Practical tips for using Bluebeam to measure and verify dimensions are provided, along with advice on cross-referencing related drawings. The tutorial emphasizes careful observation, understanding symbols, and identifying critical information like crane openings, beam placements, and step markings. Perfect for beginners, this video simplifies complex drawings into clear, actionable insights for on-site use.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always start by checking the drawing metadata, including title, sheet number, scale, designer, and revision history.
• 😀 Verify that the drawing is 'for construction' before using it for on-site work.
• 😀 Carefully read the legend and general notes to understand all symbols, lines, and instructions.
• 😀 Slab levels and thickness are fundamental; identify high and low points, steps, and thickness changes.
• 😀 Dashed lines indicate hidden features such as steps in the soffit, beams underneath, or other concealed elements.
• 😀 Solid lines represent actual changes in slab levels or features visible from above.
• 😀 Sections provide vertical insights into the building, showing beams, columns, and step heights, and should be cross-referenced with the GA drawing.
• 😀 Use software like Bluebeam or AutoCAD to measure distances, overlay sections, and verify scale calibration.
• 😀 Pay attention to temporary features such as crane openings or slab infills, as well as structural details like masonry supports and thermal breaks.
• 😀 Always cross-check related drawings, including adjacent sheets and architectural drawings, to get a complete understanding of the project.
• 😀 Take your time and review all information on the drawing; rushing can result in missing critical details or misinterpreting elements.
• 😀 Different designers may use different color codes or line styles, so always refer to the legend for that specific drawing.

Q & A

What is the first step when opening a construction drawing?

The first step is to check the drawing table for title, revision history, scale, designer name, and date. Then, thoroughly read the legend and general notes to understand symbols, lines, and any references to other drawings.

Why is it important to read the legend carefully?

The legend explains all symbols, lines, and color codes used by the designer. Different designers may use different colors or line styles, so understanding the legend ensures correct interpretation of the drawing.

What does a dashed line on a slab drawing indicate?

A dashed line, also called a hidden line, indicates a step or feature in the soffit or something underneath the slab, such as a beam or column, which cannot be seen from the top.

How are steps in the slab represented differently from steps in the soffit?

Steps in the top of the slab are shown with solid lines, while steps in the soffit (underneath the slab) are represented with dashed lines.

What is the purpose of checking sections in construction drawings?

Sections show a 'cut' through the building and help visualize beams, columns, slab steps, and movement joints. The arrow indicates the viewing direction, ensuring you see the correct elements.

Why should multiple drawings be considered together?

Because one drawing may not provide all the necessary information. Cross-referencing architectural, structural, and section drawings ensures a complete understanding of the project and prevents mistakes on site.

How can software like Bluebeam or AutoCAD assist when reading drawings?

These tools allow you to calibrate the scale, measure dimensions accurately, and compare drawings, making it easier to verify or request clarification if information is missing.

What key information should be extracted first from a GA drawing?

The most important information includes slab levels, slab thickness, grid lines, movement joints, steps in the slab and soffit, and the location of beams and columns.

What are some common temporary elements indicated in slab drawings?

Temporary elements may include crane openings or hoist openings in the slab. These are meant to be infilled after equipment removal, and the drawing will specify this.

Why is it important to not rush through reading a construction drawing?

Rushing may lead to missing crucial details in the legend, notes, or sections. Taking time ensures that all relevant information is understood, which reduces errors during setting out and construction.

How do designers indicate movement joints in slab drawings?

Movement joints are clearly marked on the drawing, and sections provide more detailed views to show how they should be implemented in the construction.

What should you do if the line colors differ from one drawing to another?

Always refer to the legend for each drawing, as color coding may vary by designer. Do not assume colors carry the same meaning across different drawings.