How to read drawing plans

How to read drawing plans Part 2 Dimensions Dimensions are the written measurements on the drawing. They show the real size and location of walls, rooms, openings and setbacks. Dimensions are usually shown in millimetres unless noted otherwise. Overall dimension (outer wall to outer wall) Openings (windows, doors) Window width Drawing scale Scale tells you how the drawing size relates to the real building. Example: 1:100 means 1 unit on the drawing represents 100 units in real life. Common architectural drawing scales include 1:100, 1:50, 1:20 and 1:10. Always check the title block or view title because different drawings can use different scales. Scale bar Scale 1:100 for floorplans PROPOSED FLOOR PLAN : Avenue Symbols Symbols are graphic shortcuts. They point you to more information somewhere else in the drawing set. If you're unsure, check the legend first. North point Elevation marker Section marker Callout Abbreviations Abbreviations save space on drawings. You'll often see them for levels, rooms, materials or instructions. Always read abbreviations with the legend, notes or schedules so you use the meaning intended for that drawing set. Reduced Level Top of Roof Finished Floor Level Ceiling FFL NGL Natural Ground Level Notes & references Notes give written instructions the drawing alone can't fully show. They can tell you about: materials finishes construction requirements special instructions Final rule: Before acting on a drawing, check the notes, legend and revision. General notes on sheet