When you hear the term “elevation”, we typically thing of the distance above sea level. Elevations are also a type of technical drawings used in construction. They are 2D orthographic representations of a vertical plane of a building or element. Elevation plans are most typically drawn to show the exterior façade of a building. It […]
What are Architectural Elevations and What Do They Show? Read More »
You may not take time to look up when you enter a new room, but the ceilings of our buildings play an important role in how that space feels and operates. Lighting, color, material, and texture can make a space feel bright and airy, or warm and cozy. In addition, required devices like light fixtures,
What is a Reflected Ceiling Plan (RCP)? Read More »
Foundations create stability and a base for our buildings. They are the first portion of the building to be constructed, so getting it right is essential to the construction of the remainder of the building. The key to designing a stable building starts with the foundation plan. What is a foundation? A foundation consists of
What is a Foundation Plan? Read More »
“TYP” is one of the most common abbreviations you’ll see in a set of construction documents. You’ll find it not only in architectural drawings but in all of the other trades’ drawings as well. What does “typ” mean? TYP is simply an abbreviation for “typical.” It’s added to a note that applies throughout the drawing
What Does “TYP” Mean? What is a typical detail? Read More »
Imagine looking down from 100′ above a building. This is what is drawn in a roof plan. It’s the drawing that illustrates the materials that keep a building watertight, indicates how water is removed from the roof, and shows any equipment that may be located on it. What is a roof plan? A roof plan
What is a Roof Plan? Read More »
The architectural plans are the heart and soul of any drawing set. The initial concept of a building often begins as a plan sketch. Design ideas continue to be tested in plan until the scheme is ready to be brought to the next level. Floor plans are usually the first drawings hard-lined and serve as
What Are Floor Plans & What Do They Show? Read More »
You’ve just received an email from the contractor, and they mentioned something about “RGDs.” Not sure what that means? The following article will explain it to you. RGD stands for Registers, Diffusers, and Grilles. These components are critical parts of the HVAC system that allow for air movement in or out of spaces and ductwork.
What Does RGD stand for in Construction? Read More »
Wood has been used to create shelter for nearly as long as humans have walked the earth. Fast forward to the 19th century and the creation of wood mills. This allowed for the accurate production of standard lumber sizes for commercial sales, leading to the lumber industry as we know it today. Nominal vs Actual
Nominal vs Actual Lumber Sizes (with charts) Read More »
Removing insulation from your attic is a decision to not be made lightly. Read on to learn about some of the considerations.
Attic Insulation Removal: What to consider for DIY Read More »
The gypsum board is hung and in place; now what? It’s now time to finish the walls. In other words, you’ll need to cover the seams between the panels and screw heads to prep the surface for painting. To do this, you’ll use a process known as taping and floating. So, get your putty knife,
How to Finish Drywall & the Tools You’ll Need Read More »
