Drawing layers are the primary way CAD software organizes graphic information and controls that information’s visibility. With layers, drafting is easier because different layers can be identified with different colors. Line weights can be associated with layers in order to help printed drawings to read better. Layers can be turned off or on to overlay […]
Standard CAD Layers for Architectural Drawings Read More »
When referencing walls, “finished” can mean a lot of different things under different circumstances. To avoid confusion and streamline communication across the board between architects, designers, and contractors, a standard scale for drywall finishes was created. Each level of finish on the list means something different and has a different intention or use. We’ll be
What Are The Different Types of Drywall Finish Levels? Read More »
You’ve spent the warmer months eating dinner, entertaining guests, and enjoying your screened porch, but now the weather is turning against you. What options do you have if the weather is beginning to cool off, but you aren’t ready to give up your back porch life? Keep reading to see what options are available for
Can I Heat a Screened-In Porch? Read More »
Attic ventilation is key to maintaining your roof and home’s health, safety, and even structural integrity. Attic baffles are often one key component of that roof ventilation system by helping to maintain airflow through concealed spaces. This guide will answer all the questions you have about attic baffles and the questions you didn’t know you
A Complete Guide to Attic Baffles Read More »
If you’ve ever wandered through the paint aisle at any big box store, you may have found yourself completely overwhelmed by the sheer number of paint formulations available. How do you know which is best suited to your project? This is of particular concern when deciding between latex or acrylic paint. I know that it
Acrylic vs. Latex Paint: Which is Right for Your Project? Read More »
Whether you’re waiting to sand or getting ready to paint, waiting the appropriate amount of time for drywall mud (aka joint compound) to dry is essential to getting the best results.
How Long Does it Take for Drywall Mud to Dry? Read More »
You can use this chart to convert imperial (US) units to metric units. Multiply the imperial value by the conversion factor to get the metric value. (Imperial Units) X (Conversion Factor) = Metric Units Source: Architectural Graphic Standards
Imperial to Metric Conversion Factors Read More »
Whether you’re determining the dead load to engineer the structural members of a floor, or just trying to satisfy your curiosity, here is a table of common construction materials and their associated weight. PSF = Pounds per square footPCF = Pounds per cubic foot Source: Architectural Graphic Standards
Typical Weights of Materials Read More »
Slope percentage is a way of describing how much elevation is gained over a given distance. It can be used to describe the steepness of a hill, the slope of a pipe, or the incline of a sidewalk. How do you calculate slope percentage? You can calculate the slope percentage by dividing the total elevation
Slope Percentage (with Calculator) for Architecture & Site Planning Read More »
If you’re an architect, designer, or builder, you’ve likely heard of Masterformat. Masterformat is a standard used to organize the specifications of construction documents. What is MasterFormat® Masterformat® is one of the standards developed by CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) and is the one you’ve most likely heard of. Itwas created to help make sure that
Guide to CSI Masterformat® Read More »
