Blueprint Reading & Construction Drawings

General

Drawing Set Organization

PrefixDisciplineTypical Sheets
GGeneral (cover, index, symbols)G001–G002
CCivil / SiteC100–C300
LLandscapeL100–L200
AArchitecturalA100–A900
SStructuralS100–S500
MMechanical (HVAC & Plumbing)M100–M600
EElectricalE100–E500

Sheet numbering: x1xx = plans, x2xx = elevations, x3xx = sections, x5xx = details, x6xx = schedules

Common Drawing Scales

MetricImperialTypical Use
1:2001/16"=1'-0"Site plans, large buildings
1:1001/8"=1'-0"Floor plans, roof plans, RCPs
1:501/4"=1'-0"Building sections, wall sections
1:203/4"=1'-0"Connection & enlarged details
1:101-1/2"=1'-0"Flashing, sealant, trim profiles
1:53"=1'-0"Near full-size details
1:1Full sizeProfiles, gaskets, mouldings

Drawing Hierarchy (Conflicts)

Shop Drawing Dispositions

Construction Tolerances

ElementStandardTolerance
Concrete formwork (walls)CSA A23.1± 6 mm
Concrete formwork (footings)CSA A23.1± 12 mm
Structural steel plumbCSA S16± 1:500 of height
Steel beam elevationCSA S16± 10 mm or span/500
Wood framing plumb6 mm in 2400 mm
Wood framing straight6 mm in 3000 mm
Masonry plumb & levelCSA A3716 mm in 3000 mm

CSI MasterFormat Divisions (Key)

Div.TitleChurch Examples
01General RequirementsSubmittals, meetings, temp facilities
03ConcreteFoundations, slabs, curbs
05MetalsStructural steel, handrails
06Wood & CompositesFraming, millwork, casework
07Thermal & MoistureRoofing, insulation, sealants
08OpeningsDoors, windows, hardware
09FinishesDrywall, tile, flooring, paint
23HVACDuctwork, equipment, controls
26ElectricalPower, lighting, fire alarm

Code References

Critical Rules — Do Not Forget

Pro Tips