Standard CAD Layers for Architectural Drawings

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 …

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What Are The Different Types of Drywall Finish Levels?

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 …

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Acrylic vs. Latex Paint: Which is Right for Your Project?

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 …

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Typical Weights of Materials

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