CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Contents Introduction……………… 4 1. Identify types of drawings and their purpose Drawing types........................... Sketches ...................................................................................... Initial Sketches........................................................................ Sketch Plans or ‘Roughs’………………………………… Pictorial Drawings…………………. Presentation Drawings.................................................................. Construction Drawings........................................................................... Service Details....................................................................................... Amendments to Construction Drawings............................................. 5 5 5 5 6 7 8 14 14 2. Apply commonly used symbols and abbreviations Symbols .................................................................................................... Standard Electrical Symbols....................................... Standard Fitting (Plumbing) Symbols........................... Standard Material Renderings....................................... Standard line types....................................................................... Abbreviations and Terms.............................................................. Figure 9 Floor Plan ..................................................................... 15 15 16 17 18 19 29 3. Locate and identify key features on a site plan Identify the building site from location drawings........................... Identify true north and building orientation from the site plan............ Identify the key features of the site plan.......................................... 20 20 21 4. Identify and locate key features on drawings Identify Key Features on Plans, Elevations and Sections...................... Identify client requested variations............................................ 22 23 5. Correctly read and interpret specifications Specifications……………………………. 24 Identify and Apply Provisional Sum and Prime Cost Sums........................ 25 Client Variations to Standard Specifications.................................. 26 Interpret essential elements and apply to estimation, planning and supervisory tasks .............................................. 26 Identification of Building Codes and Standards ................................ 28 6. Identify non-structural aspects to the specification Identify key features of products in the specification............................ 30 Page 3 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Introduction Work in the construction industry requires a sound understanding of various types of architectural drawings, their purpose and the differing aspects such drawings show. Architectural drawings are in effect a language: To not be fluent in that language is akin to travelling through a foreign land totally reliant upon an interpreter, never quite sure that what you are being told is fact, fiction, or just that which the interpreter knows will make you feel good…. This text explores the various types of drawings used in construction work, how to read them, and how to draw out the necessary information from those other documents that often accompany them. The first section offers an overview of the various types of drawings, their purpose and the key aspects to be found within them. The second section covers common abbreviations and symbols used in architectural drafting and specifications. The third and forth sections look more closely at the reading of various plans and how to find relevant information within them. The fifth and sixth sections deal with the interpretation of various aspects of the specifications document. As with any language there are standard systems governing its expression. In the case of architectural drafting these systems are outlined and governed by various Standards and Codes. In Australia, the recommended standards for technical drawings are specified in: A.S. 1100.101 - 1992 Technical drawing - general principals A.S. 1100.101 - 1994 Amendment A.S. 1100.301 - 1985 Architectural drawing A.S. 1100.301 - 1986 Supplementary H.B. 47 - 1993 Dimensioning and tolerances AS1100.101 specifies: the use of abbreviations materials, sizes, and layout of drawing sheets positioning, size and content of Title and Revision blocks the types and minimum thicknesses of lines to be used the requirements for distinct uniform letters, numerals and symbols recommended scales and their application methods of projection and of indicating the various views of an object methods of sectioning recommendations for dimensioning including size & geometric tolerances conventions used for the representation of components and repetitive features of components AS1100 Part 301-1985 and its supplement AS1100.301 Supp 1-1986 relate to architectural drawing practice before, during and after construction. Page 4 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications 1. Identify types of drawings and their purpose This section explores the different types of drawings and their purposes, from sketches through to full construction drawings. In addition it covers the differing aspects of construction drawings and what information may be gleamed from them. Drawing Types Sketches Sketches are drawings you will encounter during the design phase of a project. Typically sketch plans illustrate the general layout, form and aesthetics of a residence, building and/or site. Initial Sketches Initial sketches are drawings used to sketch the site and services, the orientation and amenity of a proposed development. Such sketches are seldom drawn to scale, providing only such information as will help a client ‘see’ where the designer is going with their ideas. They can also help a client see the implications of their own ideas to a structure. Sketch Plans or ‘Roughs’ These are generally done to scale and hence offer true proportions for the client, council or other key stakeholders to consider. These may be ‘pencil and stick’ (drawn by hand) or developed on a computer (Computer Aided Design, otherwise known as CAD). Page 5 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Pictorial Drawings The previous examples of sketches show what may loosely described as a basic form of ‘Orthographic’ projection. Orthographic drawings give the familiar ‘plan’ (birds eye or top view), and ‘elevations’ (side views). Orthographic drawings offer the viewer a flat plane depiction of a subject which, whilst useful for describing true lengths and proportions, is a actually not how we ‘see’ an object with our eyes. What we ‘see’ What we draw ‘orthographically’ In addition, orthographic drawings generally offer only one side, face or ‘plane’ of a structure at a time (i.e.: plane, side elevation, front elevation etc.). Pictorial drawings attempt to overcome this issue by various means. Isometric and Oblique styles give views of three faces within the one view, with Oblique drawings shortening the lengths of the receding side to give more ‘realistic’ representation of the object. 30o 45o 30o Oblique Isometric Perspective drawing is a more advanced form of pictorial drawing that provides very close approximation of how an observer really sees an object. There are various forms of perspective drawing. In its simplest form, the viewer sees things vanish back to one point only. In its most realistic form, things vanish back to three points. Generally drawings are worked to two vanishing points on the ‘horizon’ as shown on the next page. Page 6 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Plan Drawing Plane Vanishing Point (VP) Vanishing Point (VP) Horizon Line Ground Line Spectator Position (SP) Two Point Perspective More information on pictorial and orthographic drawing may be found at: http://toolboxes.flexiblelearning.net.au/demosites/series9/905/2_draw/draw_t3/htm /draw3_2_1.htm and http://www.khulsey.com/perspective_basics.html Presentation Drawings Architects often present artistically ‘rendered’ sketch plans or presentation drawings, to clients. This is in order to assess ideas and concepts expressed in the plans in a more contextually inclusive manner. These drawings are designed to help non technical people understand what the project will look like when complete, and where it will be situated. As shown below, pictorial techniques are used in to advantage. Wright Frank Lloyd : Falling Water Mill Page 7 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Construction Drawings These are the ‘Plans’ as most people would understand them to be. Construction drawings may also be known as ‘working drawings’ ‘architectural drawings’ or ‘Blueprints’. They are a set of detailed technical drawings providing all parties with the requisite information to quote, approve and or construct the building or structure. Construction drawings use a standard layout of plans, elevations and detail sections defined in AS1100.101 and are generally drawn to scale of 1:100. Specific aspects of a set of such plans will be at larger or smaller scales depending upon the detail required: I.e. Site plans may be at 1:500, whilst details might be as large as 1:5. Construction Plans: document the final design in complete detail, including all dimensions. provide an on-site construction manual, which, combined with the specification, contain all construction information during the construction phase allow builders, contractors and trades people to accurately perform their tasks allow structural, electrical, hydraulic and mechanical engineers to assess relevant aspects of the design allow off site component manufacturers to build components to the correct size and specification provide evidence of compliance with statutory regulations provide evidence in disputes submitted to relevant authorities for licenses and statutory approval show service details such as wiring, piping, ducts and waste disposal show roadways, pathways, parking areas, boundaries and landscaping are distributed to tendering builders and subcontractors. A set of construction plans will consist of all or some of the following aspects: site plan and or location plan floor plan elevations sections footing plan bracing plan door and window schedules material and finishes schedule details (enlargements) overlay (new works to existing) Page 8 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Site and Location Plans The location plan offers generally a larger picture of the surrounding area. Streets, lane ways or other information that ‘locate’ the site of works (such as the specific lot location) within a new suburban development for example, or perhaps that part of a large industrial or educational facility. The Location is usually drawn to a small scale such as 1:1000 Example Location Plan of TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus The purpose of the site plan is to make clear the location of the structure with regard to boundary lines, the contour or ‘lay’ of the land, and any existing structures, easements and or services immediate to the new works. Scale at 1:200 – 1:500 Tann e ry L 20 3 pro 70 97 0 105° 32' x 1 03 00 24 080 Ap 5 x 76 00 31 Appro ° 53 ' ane Ex Ga isting rag e & Self She d 5 Ex Co isting nta ine Self dU nit 19 530 114 ° 93 0 13 1° 16 ' 14' 186° 20' 41 340 27 160 Notes: 1. Block dimensions based upon Certificate of Title. 2. Contours indicative only. 3. No established trees need to be removed for this project. 4. Shadow lines not provided due to lack of relevance (extreme distances between project and neighbouring dwellings). 5. Storm water and drainage to existing outflows (where not directed by proposed storage tanks as shown). 186° 20' Proposed Water Tanks 31 57 430 0 276° 20' Page 9 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Floor Plan A Floor Plan is a horizontal cross section thought a building viewed from above. The purpose of a Floor plan is to detail all horizontal construction dimensions and the general layout of rooms and the like. • • • • • • the size and shape of the building, cupboards, halls and spaces thickness of all walls size and name of all rooms size of verandas, patios, porches position of fixtures such as baths, showers, toilets and basins the roof outline There is a lot of informative on floor plans and are usually drawn to a scale of at least 1:100. Note: Dimensions to all construction drawings in Australia are in millimetres. 22000 8110 180 180 3400 300 11390 100 3800 180 3850 600 180 2500 110 2400 110 2000 110 1500 180 4800 1300 600 600 600 180 Bath Deck Ensuite 5225 Study Kitchen C Dining 110 3725 Living Strutting Beam Over Laundry Strutting Beam Over 180 B C 180 1475 Verandah Verandah Deck 2180 600 180 WC 600 100 110 B 1220 Hall Hall 9120 D Entry Tie Beam Over D 1000 110 2130 300 1200 9490 5230 180 1550 300 110 1600 140 340 Deck Master Bedroom 9490 2895 2980 3800 3880 Bed 2 180 Bed 3 Verandah 3895 300 180 600 A 2100 1920 A 8275 600 180 2325 180 1780 1510 180 3800 100 6485 1475 600 8755 110 23080 2500 Elevations Elevations show the side views of a building or structure and therefore show heights or vertical distances: hence their name ‘elevations’. In construction drawings, exterior elevations are drawn, showing the finished appearance. Each elevation is named according to the direction it faces i.e. NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, or WEST elevation. The elevations may show a lot of detail, but seldom much detail offered in the measurements. Only height (elevation) measurements are offered along with ground lines and finished floor and ceiling lines. Original Roof and Wall Lines U.S. Ceiling Main FFL Upper Levels G.L. G.L. FFL Lower Levels South Elevation Page 10 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Sections Sections or ‘cross sections’, are drawings used to show detail with greater accuracy by using larger scales. Sectional elevations are cross-sections that cut vertically through a building. The position of sectional elevations are shown on the floor plan by broken lines including arrow heads indicating the direction in which the section is viewed, and an alpha or numeric code by way of identification: I.e. A-A (see previous page – floor plan, and example section A-A below). The sectional elevation shows such information as: • • • • • • height of floor above ground level (G.L.) ceiling height joinery line/height handrail height if applicable depth of footings Sill or head heights to windows Custom Orb ColorBond Cladding on 64mm Metal Top Hats. 2/170 x 35 F17 HWD Ridge Beam (Laminated) R3.5 Polyester or Pure Wool Batts to Ceiling Including Lounge Cathedral (No Fibre Glass to be Used) Cathedral Ceiling to Lounge 13mm Plasterboard on Metal Battens To Match Existing (Approx 25°) 120 x 45 F17 HWD Rafters to Lounge Trusses at 900 c/c to Manufaturer's specifications 100 x 75 F17 HWD Post Supporting Ridge Beam 2/240 x 35 F17 HWD Strutting Beam (Laminated) R2.0 Polyester or Pure Wool Batts to all External Walls (No Fibre Glass to be Used) 3000 Rendered 75mm Hebel Power Panel Fixed to 90mm MGP12 Stud Walls using 25mm Top Hats as per Manufactures Specifications. FFL Upper Levels 850 19mm Spotted Gum/Merbu or 'Modwood' Decking to Duragal Subfloor To Match Existing (Approx 3150) Fire Rated Ducting and In-Line Fan Unit (Hot Air to Bed/Study/Bath Rooms) Raking Eave Terminated at Chimney FFL Lower Levels FFL Lower Levels Carter Holt Harvey 19mm Yellow Tougne 'R' Floor. 19mm T&G Blackbutt Solid Timber Flooring Over on Duragal Subfloor System 19 mm Yellow Tougne 'R' Floor as Wall Backing to Subfloor Area of Lounge Wall. R1.5 Polyester or Pure Wool Batts to all Internal Walls (No Fibre Glass to be Used) Fan-Less Ducting (Cold Air from Bed/Study/Bath Rooms to Slow Combustion Heater Area) Section A-A Bracing Plans This is effectively another floor plan, though generally with less detail. It is used to show the type, length and position of bracing units. It is generally accompanied by a bracing schedule and the calculations by which bracing requirements were determined. B1i B2p B1f WC Kitchen 2 x B1s Strutting Beam Over B2v 3 Laundry Combination Beam Over B1e 2 x B1t Dining B1a Verandah 4 x B2r Deck Master Bedroom B1g Living B1c B1b Verandah B1d Deck 2 4 Direction 4 Brace Type Restraint Offered Length Location B 9.6 kN/m 1800 u B 4.8 kN/m 900 v 1 B1hHall Design Wind Classification Region A Terrain Category TC2 Topographic Classification T2 Sheilding PS Wind Classification N3 Ensuite Tie Beam Over 2x B2u Hall Entry 2 x B2q Bath B2n Study Lintel Over Deck Bracing Requirements B1k Strutting Beam Over Bed 2 4 x B2m Bed 3 Verandah 4 x B2o B2l B1j Structure Roof: Composite Design Pitch 25° - New: Lounge - Rafters at 900 c/c with Cathedral Ceiling Lining Under, Sheet Clad on Metal Battens over. All Other Areas - Trusses at 900 c/c, Sheet Clad on Metal Battens. - Existing: Traditionally Pitched Rafters at 900 c/c. Walls: Composite Design - New: 90mm Timber Stud Clad with Hebal 70mm 'Power Panel' on Metal Battens - Existing: 180mm Solid Masony Floor: Composite Design - New: Duragal Subfloor System (Gal Stumps, Bearers & Joists) with 19mm Yellow Tongue 'R' Floor Sheet Topped with 19mm Black Butt End Matched T&G HWD Flooring. - Existing: Traditional Concrete Stumps with HWD Bearers & Joists Topped with19mm Black Butt T&G HWD Flooring Areas Direction 1 32m² + 8m² (Upper Lounge Wall consideration) Force = 1.4 Restraint required = 56.0 kN Restraint provided = 58.4 kN (Nominal bracing and that offered by existing structure not considered) Direction 2 54m² + 8.2m² ( Upper Lounge Wall consideration) Force = 1.3 Restraint required = 80.9 kN Restraint provided = 81.6 kN (Nominal bracing not considered) Direction 3 18m² Force = 1.2 Restraint required = 21.6 kN Restraint provided = 19.2 kN (Bracing Provided By Existing Structure Considered - New Structure Imposes No Additional Area to Existing and is Within 5.1m). Direction 4 12m² Force = 1.1 Restraint required = 13.2 kN Restraint provided = 14.4 kN (Nominal bracing not considered) TOTAL = 14.4 kN/m Page 11 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Overlay Plans Another form of simplified floor plan that shows how the new works will ‘overlay’ or attach to, an existing building. This form of plan is requisite to renovation and extension works. Existing Play Room, Laundry, Bathroom and WC Removed Including Concrete Slab. Ground Line Lowered to Improve Ventilation to Both New Works and Existing Retained Structure. Existing Study Removed including Removal of Original Verandah Roof and Pillars to this Area Bed 3 Verandah Bed 2 Bath Deck Ensuite Study Deck Master Bedroom Hall Hall Entry Laundry Living Kitchen Dining WC Verandah Verandah Internal Wall Removed: Replace with 2/190 x 45 Compound Beam (Strutting/Hanging) Over Deck Existing Double Hung Window Relocated to East of Chimney. Replaced With External Door. External Wall and Hip of Roof Removed: Trussed Roof Over Existing Verandah Roof Removed. Note: Pillars to be Retained Details Detail drawings are enlargements of key areas of a building. In drawing them, the designer gets a clearer picture in their own mind of how a structure might need to be built. In reading them, the builder and client get a clearer picture of areas of work which are perhaps different to normal building practice, or particular to this specific structure. Examples include: Tie down Fixing details Key load bearing points Architectural features New material fixing requirements How to tie in with the existing structure. Rendered 75mm Hebel Power Panel Fixed to 90mm MGP12 Stud Walls using 25mm Top Hats as per Manufactures Specifications. 90mm MGP12 Pine Framing to AS1684 R2.0 Poly or Pure Wool Insulation (No Fibre Glass to be used) 10mm Gyprock Sheeting. Rendered Hebel or Styrofoam Moulding Screwed and Glued to Hebel Power Panel. 19mm T&G Blackbutt Solid Timber Flooring or Ceramic Tiles (i.e. Wet Areas). 10mm AbleFlex Expansion Joint. Carter Holt Harvey 19mm Yellow Tougne 'R' Floor. 100 x 50 x 1.6 Duragal Joists at 450c/c All Ends to be Plastic Capped Continuous Alcor or equivalent Flashing Behind Sarking and Under AbleFlex Expansion Joint. 100 x 50 x 2.0 Duragal Bearers Located as per Footing Plan. All Ends to be Plastic Capped. Min 150mm* Min 75mm 'Rock Faced' 100 series (90mm) Concrete Blocks Contiouous Beneath Hebel Power Panel. Continuous Galvanised Ant Cap with DampProof Flashing Under. 'Rock Faced' 200 series (190mm) Concrete Blocks Contiouous with Strip Footing. 100 series (90mm) Concrete Block Piers Tied to Strip Footing at Each Bearer End Support Location or at Max 1800c/c for Bearers Running Parallel to Wall. Min 6000mm2/m Ventilation Provided at Evenly Spaced Intervals Through Dwarf Wall. (Climate Zone 3). 600 X 400 Continuous Concrete Strip Footing to Perimeter of New Works. Min 20MPa Concrete * Beyond 2.0m from External Wall or Top of Slope, Minimum is 400mm. 12mm Ø Threaded Rod Tied to 12mm Ø Starter Bars to Each Bearer End Postion or at Max 1800 c/c for Bearers Running Parallel to Wall 4-L12TM to Top and Bottom of Strip Footing Page 12 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Schedules Aside from the bracing schedule described earlier, there are a number of other schedules that may appear on a set of construction drawings. Of these, the most common are the Door and Window Schedule, and the Materials and Finishes Schedule The Door and Window schedule provides information such as the type, dimension and materials of all windows and doors (internal and external) to the building. This will include the glazing requirements: i.e. double glazed, solar tint, etc. It is usually accompanied by a simplified floor plan showing window and door locations. Door & Window Schedule Dimensions stated as Nominal only. Glazing Design Wind Speed: 41m/s All doors treated with weather seals all round W1 1000 x 1600 Timber Awning 1000 x 600 Timber fixed vented & obscure (Toilet Window) S S 1000 x 2400 Timber double hung W4 S 1500 x 1000 Timber Double Hung (Repositioned Existing Window) W5, 6 & 11 S 1500 x 1000 Timber double hung W7 DG 2100 x 900 Timber Awning W8 S 2400 x 500 Timber Hopper W9 GB W10 GB 1500 x 2000 Glass Block TDG 1800 x 3100 Timber Gable Hopper D6 D7 D8 W12 W12 S 2040 x 820 Glazed Timber External D3 NA 2040 x 820 Flush Panel Cavity Slider D4 - D9 NA 2040 x 820 Colonial Timber Internal GD1 S GD2 DG 2150 x 3100 Glazed Timber Bifold External GD3 DG 2040 x 1800 Glazed Timber External Door & Awning Window GD4 DG 2040 x 1800 Glazed Timber External GD5 S 2040 x 2400 Glazed Timber French Doors with Awning Sidelights GD6 S 2150 x 2500 Glazed Timber French Doors with Awning Sidelights GD7 S 2040 x 2400 Solid Timber Entrance Door with Awning Sidelights Glass Codes S DG TDG Single 5mm Double Glazed min 3-6-3 Toughened Double Glazed W2 W4 W3 2100 x 700 Glass Block D1 & 2 Over Head Gable D3 D1 S W2 GD7 D4 Glass W1 W3 D9 D5 Specification Item Repositioned Existing 2150 x 2000 Glazed Timber External The Materials and Finishes schedule provides relevant information on such things as concrete strengths and expected finish, cladding and linings, paint, tiles, framing timbers, decking at the like. Materials & Finishes Schedule Design Wind Speed: 41m/s Item Material External Cladding Extension: 75mm Rendered Hebel Power Panel (Existing Mansonry to be rendered to match) Roof Cladding Linings (general) ColorBond Custom Orb. All Existing Roof Cladding Replaced to Match Ceilings: 13mm Gyprock to steel battens Walls: 10mm Gyprock to studs Roof Structure Lounge Room Extension: Rafters 120 x 45 F17 Hwd @ 600 c/c Ridge 2/170 x 35 F17 Hwd Elsewhere: Trusses to Manufactures Specifications Insulation Roof: Sarking with min R3.5 Polly or Pure Wool Batts Walls Sarking with min R2.0 Polly or Pure Wool Batts Internal Walls: Min R1.5 Polly or Pure Wool Batts General Framing LOSP HWD or MGP12 Pine to AS1684 Footings Min 20MPa Concrete to all pads and strip footings Lintels Hyspan or Gal lintel to AS1684 Flooring Black Butt Hwd applied over 'R'-Floor 19mm Yellow Glenn P. Costin Tongue Sheet Flooring. Wet Areas Ceramic Tile overPage 13 'R'-Floor Yellow Tongue. & Construction Riverina Institute Albury19mm Campus Building 2010 TAFE NSW Bracing Ply or Hardboard sheet bracing located as specified and of 31 CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Service Details These drawings are used to show details of services such as electrical wiring, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC), and plumbing. The scale varies depending upon the complexity of that being depicted. These details are critical to those particular trades involved in the service installation. Generally they form part of the construction drawings or plans discussed previously. Amendment Drawings An Amendment Drawing is used to document revisions to original drawings. The amendment drawing may replace the entire drawing, or part of a drawing depending on the scope of the change. The Amendment Drawing may have an Amendment or Revision Block above the title block or a revision number appended to the drawing number. The revision block will detail revision dates, sign off, etc. Revisions are marked on the plan with a triangle pointing to the affected area, with the revision number, and possibly details of the amendments. Task: Look at the plan set provided then: Explore the Australian Standards applicable to various aspects of plans and specifications and determine in what ways, if any, that the plans provided do not adhere to the recommendations in the codes. Search on the internet, TAFE and or local library, or HIA, MBA or other building associations you may have connections with. Include the BCA in your research if you can access it. If possible obtain copies of the standards. Page 14 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications 2. Apply commonly used symbols and abbreviations The previous section’s purpose was to develop a basic understanding of the common types of drawings and the various aspects of formal construction plans. The purpose of this section is to explore the ‘written language’ of construction plans: that is, to interpret and apply the commonly used symbols, abbreviations and terms used in these drawings. Like any language, by using standardised, common words, symbols, abbreviations and terms, the risk of misunderstandings are reduced (though not eliminated). Symbols Symbols are a culturally agreed array of objects, characters, or other concrete figures that abstractly represent ideas, concepts, or desired responses. I.e.: Road signs Traffic lights, road signs, First Aid signs etc.. According to AS1100.301, symbols are used in plans where drawing to scale is impractical. The standard also defines a set of manually drawn feature symbols, but recognises that there are numerous drawing templates and CAD programs with differing symbols. Some site plan symbols are defined in AS1100.401. There are three main types of symbols • • • Drawing (e.g. material renderings, door or window forms, line types) Fixture (e.g. Plumbing: sink, basin, toilet etc) Services (e.g. electrical). Some Standard Electrical Symbols Page 15 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Some Standard Fitting (Plumbing) Symbols Note: Be aware that whilst some symbols are international, others are nation specific. Some may even look the same but may actually have opposite meanings as you move from one country to another. For example: In contemporary Australian architecture the door shown would be hinged on the right hand side. Likewise the window described would be an awning sash hinged at the top (the symbolism being reflective of the flap on an envelope). In the United Kingdom (and Australia until the late 1960’s) these symbols act as arrows pointing to the side that is hinged. I.e. the door is hinged on the left, and the window is a hopper sash hinged at the bottom. Page 16 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Some Standard Material Renderings HWD Page 17 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin Some Standard line types There are three main types of lines use in drawing to aid plan interpretation: continuos, dashed, and centre lines. Continuous lines are used to show the main elements of a drawing that may be seen directly in the specific view shown. AS1100 applies different meanings to different thicknesses though this is seldom strictly adhered to. Dashed lines generally used to draw hidden detail, or detail at levels different to the plan (such as eave lines). They may also be used in overlay plans or footing plans where existing meets the proposed works. Centre lines are a form of dashed line, the difference being a repeating pattern of short dashes (or dots) with long dashes. Centre lines are used for many things other than marking centres, such as ceiling and floor lines, and section lines as shown in the figure below. Continuous Dashed Centre 22000 11390 180 180 2500 110 2400 110 2000 110 1500 4800 180 1300 600 600 600 Ensuite 5225 Study 3725 C 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina 2180 Page 18 of 31 Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin Deck Institute 600 180 Living 1475 C Strutting Beam Over 180 B 1220 B 110 110 Master Bedroom 9120 Hall Tie Beam Over Deck 180 Bath Deck 3895 2895 180 A Strutting Beam Over ng CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Abbreviations and Terms Some construction information is presented on drawings as short notes. These convey details such as alternate dimensions, colour, materials, finishes, and draw attention to particular construction or design requirements and the like. Notes may be annotated arrows, or as cross referenced lists. Abbreviations and standard terms allow notes on drawings to be as concise and clear as possible. Abbreviations are shortenings of words, usually to save space or effort. The abbreviation is often achieved by using initials to form an acronym, or by omitting parts of the word, AS1100.301 defines a list of standardised abbreviations for use in architectural drawings. Multiple glossaries of building terms are available on the internet however the student must take care that they are not only Australian, but are not simply adaptations of American or English lists (this same issue can come into play when researching symbols). Some good Australian glossaries may be found at: http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/heritage/glossary.html#building http://hsc.csu.edu.au/construction/glossary/3246/common_terms.htm Some sample abbreviations are described below Acronym AL AS AUX B BRR BLK BDYL BT BRKT BK BV BWK BLDG BL BM CBL CAB CAN CI CW CEM CM CR CRS CL CHY CCT CD COL C Term Aluminium Australian Standard Auxiliary Basin Bearer Block Boundary Line Bracket Brick Brick Veneer Brick Work Building Building Line Bench Mark Cable Cabinet Canopy Cast Iron Cavity Wall Cement Cement Mortar Cement Render Centres Centre Line Chimney Circuit Clothes Dryer Column Cooker Acronym CC CF CTR CORR D DAR DP DW FC FFL FW G GL HW HWD KD MH OUT OA OH P PBD PBM PCC P/F PF PM RAD RF RHS Term Concrete Ceiling Concrete Floor Contour Corrugated Door Dressed All Round Down Pipe Dish Washer Fibre Cement Finished Floor Line Floor Waste Gas Ground Line Hot Water Unit Hard Wood Kiln Dried Man Hole Outlet Over All Overhead Pier Plaster Board Permanent Bench Mark Precast Concrete Plan of Subdivision Portal Frame Permanent Mark Radius Raft Footing Rolled Hollow Section Acronym RL RSC RSJ RWH S SD SEW SF SHR SQ SPR SWBD SWD T TC TM TR TRH UB U/C U/G UR V VER VERT W WBD WC WRC WPM Term Reduced Level Rolled Steel Channel Rolled Steel Joist Rain Water Head Sink Sewer Drain Sewer Strip Footing Shower Square Sprinkler Switchboard Stormwater Drain Truss Terra Cotta Trench Mesh Trench Trough Universal Beam Under Construction Underground Urinal Vent Version Vertical Window Wallboard Water Closet (Toilet) Western Red Cedar Waterproof Membrane Page 19 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications 3. Locate and identify key features on a site plan As outlined previously, a site plan is a detailed drawing of a site from an overhead perspective. It identifies the position of the building or buildings on the site. Site plans usually oriented with North to the top of the drawing, with all related drawings displaying a similar orientation (rational to their being viewed as a set of plans). Site plans are drawn to minimum scale 1:200. Identify the building site from location drawings The location of a building site will be shown on site plan as distances to boundary lines or neighbouring features such as roadways and adjoining buildings and features. The distance between the front of the building and the front boundary is often referred to as the set back, or front building line. Sometimes a location plan is used when the overall site is large. The location plan will show building site location relative to other sites, vicinity, or entire street. Task: Using the plan set provided, identify the following: 1. The name of the street on which the lot is located 2. The distance the proposed building is from the street boundary line 3. The distance the existing building is from the side boundary line Identify true north and building orientation from the site plan. A compass pointer (North) is always shown on a site plan, and generally with North pointing to the top of the plan. Unless specified otherwise, it may be assumed that ‘True’ North, not ‘Magnetic’ North, is represented. This allows the builder to ‘orientate’ the building appropriately on the site. In addition all boundary lines will have their alignment (in degrees and minutes from North) shown along with their respective lengths. Task: Using the plan set provided, identify the following: 1. What is the length and alignment of the ‘North’ Boundary 2. The end of the building closest to the existing garage is facing in approximately which direction: Page 20 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Identify the key features of the site plan Some of the key features of a site plan include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • location, orientation and size of the construction site datum access and egress contours and slopes major geographical and topographical features existing dwellings, buildings or other structures retaining walls drainage lines septic tanks and dispersion trenches paving set backs service connection points easements storm water disposal trees and vegetation The datum in a site plan is the point which all other site levels refer to. The datum is usually given as a known height above sea level, or a ‘nominal’ height is offered such as 100.00m. In some plans the term Reduced level (RL 100.00) is used. The datum is generally an easily identifiable peg or mark from which the builder may work. This peg or mark being identified on the plan as a TBM (Temporary Bench Mark), BM (Bench Mark), or PM (Permanent Mark): The latter however is generally only to be found outside of the site boundary on a pavement or some council serviceable location. The Access and Egress features of a site plan show how to get in and out of a site, typically driveway crossovers, paths, right of carriage (use) etc. Contours lines show the fall of the land. The vertical height difference between on contour and another will depend upon the scale of the drawing, and the level of detail needing to be depicted. Intervals 0.5 to 1.0 metres are common. From the contour lines, the slope can be calculated. Each contour line will display its level relative to either sea level or the datum. Slopes or gradients are shown on elevations as a ratio Y: X, where Y is the vertical component and X is the horizontal component of a right angle triangle. Major geological and topographical features will include trees, rocks, waterways etc Existing dwellings, buildings or other structures on the site will be shown including their dimensions and distances from boundaries and the target building. Easements confer rights of use of land to someone other than the owner. The easement can also limit development over a nominated area of a site. A typical easement is a service easement allowing service providers’ access to the easement for maintenance purposes. The easement dimensions, distance from boundaries, and identifying codes are documented on the site plan. Page 21 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Task: Using the plan set provided, identify the following: 1. The direction of fall on the site 2. Approximate difference in ground height between the North West and South East corners of the new building 3. What is the approximate area of the block 4. Identify and locate key features on drawings The various aspects of construction drawings discussed previously show specialised and detailed elements of the proposed building and relevant surrounds. This section focuses upon key features of these drawings with the purpose of teasing out the more commonly important detail. Task: Using the plan set provided , complete the following table stating what it is you have found, which view it was found in, and on what drawing number (DWG number). Q. Question 1 What is the width of the ensuite 2 What is the sectional size of the strutting beams over the living room What is the difference in floor height between dining and living rooms What is the eave width of the entry verandah 3 4 5 6 Response View DWG No. What is the floor to ceiling height for the master bed room What is the wall height to the living room 7 What type of glass is in W12 8 What forms of insulation are allowed in the walls Page 22 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 What is the approximate pitch of the existing roof How is the bearer tied to the dwarf wall and footing What is the total bracing restraint provided for wind direction 1 What is the minimum the top edge of the strip footing may be below ground level What is the sectional size of the verandah perimeter bearers What is the terrain category for this site What must be done to the ends of the Duragal bearers and joists. Brace B2m offers how many kN of restraint In which room is brace B2m located. What is the ceiling height of the master bedroom entrance What is the sectional size of the rafters to the lounge What material are the lounge rafters to be made from What scale is Detail 2-12 drawn at Identify client requested variations Clients may request variations to the constructions, requiring revised plans. The revisions will be recorded in the plan as a revision number appended to the plan number in the title block, and revision triangles pointing to the affected area on the plan. The affected area may also have a cloud drawn around it to specify the boundaries of the affected area. The revision triangle will be labelled with the revision number and any explanatory notes. Task: Handout Detail 1-10v1 represents a variation to the existing plan set. What is the key change to this detail compared to the original? Page 23 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications 5. Correctly read and interpret specifications Drawings and Plans present construction information graphically; however there are types of information that are more effectively stated in writing. The specifications hold the written construction information and instructions that cannot be expressed in plans. The specification has legal standing, and forms part of the contract documents along with the working plans. The specifications and construction plans are used during the tendering process. The specification sections detail: • statutory requirements • owner’s obligations • plans, permits and application fees • the work to be carried out • materials to be used • standards used to determine the correct sizes of construction components The specifications sections are grouped by trade, and ordered in the normal sequence of job activity during the construction phase. Builders specialising in project housing often use a standard specification. Standard specifications detail requirements common to buildings of the type, such as: • • • • • compliance with standards and codes brickwork calculations framing hot water service provision The specification may also include: • materials lists • Building schedules and quantities • addenda • performance data and material technical data • levels and survey information • stress, load and bearing calculations Domestic Construction In domestic construction the specification is often a schedule in the construction drawings. Aside from a call for adherence to Australian standards nothing else may exist. It is preferable, however, from both client and builder perspectives, to have something ‘tighter’. ‘National’ specifications are available, such as that provided by ‘Natspec’ which cover all aspects at a minimal purchase cost. Task: Using the plan set provided, identify the following: 1. On which page is the Materials and Finishes Schedule 2. What is to be done to the existing masonry 3. Aside from the handrail what other fall protection is to be provided to the decks when higher than 1.0m above ground level Page 24 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Identify and Apply Provisional Sum and Prime Cost Sums A Provisional Sum (PS) is a sum allowed for in the contract to cover the cost of labour and material for work items when the extent of the work (and materials) could not be determined before construction begins. The costs of PS items are estimated using either an industry standard construction data reference, such as Cordell’s Housing Building Cost Guide, or by experience. These are then and listed and costed in an addendum to the Specification. Differences between the PS and actual costs are accounted for in the final statement of accounts. Typical PS items included in a standard addendum are Rock Excavations, Retaining walls, landscaping and pools. Task: From the discussion, what factors inhibit the exact quoting of cost for works such as those listed above. A Prime Cost (PC) is a sum allowed for in the contract, to cover the cost of items which the client or architect has not yet selected. The PC sums may cover the cost of labour and materials, or materials only. The PC items are listed and costed in the specification and in the addenda. Differences between the PC Sum and actual costs are accounted for in the final statement of accounts. Task: From the discussion, list 6 items that might be quoted at prime cost only. Page 25 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Client Variations to Standard Specifications Frequently the client will seek to have different items to those listed as PC in the standard specifications. In such cases these must be listed in the building schedule (materials and finishes schedule for example) or a ‘Selection Schedule’ (a schedule that contains all specific selections for materials, and items that would otherwise be described as on a Prime Cost basis. Some larger domestic project builders will have a list of ‘PC’ items which are fully costed and from which the client makes their choice prior to the signing of contracts. Interpret essential elements and apply to estimation, planning and supervisory tasks Each section of the specification relates to a particular work effort, laying out in detail the builders’ responsibilities, the standards and codes applicable to the work item. The Introductory section details: the purpose and scope of the specification the specification’s relationship to other documents what documents are included as part of the specification, such as addenda and schedules the legal precedence of the documents, i.e. which document is to be considered the correct in cases where the documents are inconsistent units of measurement, typically millimetres meanings of particular terms used, for example: “Special Details” means any extra documents included intended to further detail work standards referred to in the specification, such as Australian Standards or the BCA It is important to read the introduction and check that all the specifications and related standards available. If you are not familiar with the standards, read them. Check for, and clear up inconsistencies with the architect or relevant authorities. Make sure that tradesmen are aware of the standards and measurements to be used. A Statutory Requirements section will itemise: Acts, Regulations and Codes that construction work must comply with, such as the Development Act, and licensing requirements of Acts and regulations for tradesmen engaged in the construction energy efficiency requirements the work must adhere to materials minimum quality such as new, merchantable treatment of defective • ownership of surplus materials Site signage responsibility sanitary accommodation responsibility Page 26 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Builders need to understand how to comply with the relevant Acts and Regulations in the scope and nature of the work. For example, it is critical to ensure all material delivered site is inspected for quality and quantity. When this is not done the builder may become responsible for the missing or defective items. Likewise it is a legislative requirement that a site sign and toilet block are erected prior to starting construction. The Owners Obligations section lists the owner’s: duty to provide Surveyor’s Certificate and Engineer’s recommendations, if required, and at whose expense terms and responsibilities when engaging contractors or supplying materials provision of and payment for water, electricity, sewer services; communication and data services if required, to the site responsibility to make happen site clearance, including permits, fees and removal of trees, obstructions etc duty relating to the treatment of contaminated soil, such as testing removal and replacement onus to remove spoil • obligation to provide Development Approvals and relevant documentation, A clear and open relationship with the client is essential to good management of construction. The Plans, Permits and Application Fees section includes: arrangements by the builder to lodge Permits and Fees a schedule of required Plans and Drawings, with the scales used and the information to be shown Although this section may be short, it is critical. Construction cannot proceed without the appropriate permits, payment of fees, and complete plans and drawings being developed. Check plans and drawings are complete and capable of submission for permits and approvals. Make the owner and/or architect aware of any discrepancies and resolve any doubts. The Site works section covers: • • • the manner of setting out (accurately) the extent of top soil and footing excavations generally includes any engineer’s recommendations. Based upon the site plan, or a more detailed contour plan developed by the builder of a contracted surveyor, an estimation of excavated spoil may need to be developed. The Foundations and Footings section lists: underfloor fill requirements Termite treatment or barrier to be used Under slab vapour barrier specification Page 27 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications instructions and standards for placement, and support of reinforcement use of Bearers, Piers and Stumps grades, standards and procedures for Concrete construction requirements for Footings and Slabs, and Suspended slabs instructions for embedded pipes, sub-floor ventilation, rebates for masonry, and Curing It is critical that the builder ensures that contractors have access to the relevant plans and specifications, and that they understand the requirements for this job specifically compared to those processes they might normally use. All work should be monitored for compliance to the specifications. Other sections of the document There are numerous sections to a specifications document, and they vary according to the needs of the particular building company, architecturally firm, council, or government department. Typically the document will include headings covering sections which are self explanatory such as: Effluent Disposal/Drainage Carpentry Steel Framing Roofing Masonry Claddings and Linings: Joinery Services (Plumbing, Electrical) Tiling, Painting, Bushfire Attack, Energy Efficiency Glazing Identification of Building Codes and Standards You will find all the building codes and standards listed in the specification against the work item. The main code is the Building Code of Australia, produced by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB). The goal of the BCA is to: “Enable the achievement of nationally consistent, minimum necessary standards of relevant, health, safety, (including structural safety and safety from fire), amenity and sustainability objectives efficiently.” The BCA has legislative standing in all states and territories of Australia. The BCA refers to certain Australian Standards. Where it does so, those standards also have legal standing. The specification will require that all and / or particular sections of work are to be carried out according to the BCA, particular Australian Standards, or that materials used comply with Australian Standards. These may include: AS 1170 Structural Design Actions AS 1288-2006 Glass In Buildings - Selection And Installation AS 1397 Steel Sheet And Strip - Hot-Dipped Zinc-Coated Or Aluminium/ZincCoated AS 1445 Hot-Dipped Zinc-Coated Or Aluminium/Zinc-Coated Steel Sheet - 76 Mm Pitch Corrugated Page 28 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications AS 1562 Design And Installation Of Sheet Roof And Wall Cladding - Metal AS 1604 Specification For Preservative Treatment - Sawn And Round Timber AS 1684 Residential Timber Framed Construction, Also Known As The National Timber Framing Code AS 1720 Timber Structures AS 1810 Timber - Seasoned Cypress Pine AS 1859 And AS 1860 Reconstituted Wood-Based Panels - Specifications – Particleboard AS 2047.2 Windows In Buildings - Construction, Installation And Maintenance AS 2049 Roof Tiles AS 2179 Specifications For Rainwater Goods AS 2269 Plywood – Structural AS/NZ 2588 Gypsum Plasterboard AS/NZ 2589 Gypsum linings in residential and light commercial construction AS 2796 Timber – Sawn And Milled Products AS 2858 Timber – Softwood – Visually Stress-Graded For Structural Purposes AS 2870 Residential Slabs And Footings AS 2904 Damp-Proof Courses And Flashings AS/NZS 3000 Electrical Installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules) AS 3600 Concrete Structures AS 3660 Termite Management AS 3700 Masonry Structures AS 3786 Smoke Alarms AS 3958.1-2007 Ceramic Tiles - Guide to the installation of ceramic tiles AS 3959 Building in bushfire-prone areas AS 4055 Wind Loads For Housing AS 4200 Pliable Building Membranes And Underlay – Materials AS/NZS 4455 Masonry Units And Segmental Pavers AS 4785 Timber - Softwood AS 4786 Timber Flooring - Sanding And Finishing AS/NZS 4859.1 Materials For The Thermal Insulation Of Buildings As may be seen, there are many standards that may apply. The legal obligation to comply with these standards may be due to their inclusion in the BCA, other codes, or mention in the specification or schedules. The BCA is updated every year, and standards can be subscribed to. Task: 1. Using the plan set provided, identify Three areas of work not covered by any aspect of the plan and for which a section of a specification would be required Page 29 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications 2. The specification forms part of which set of document? 3. In which document(s) could customer Variations be listed? 4. What two main sets of standards or codes are referred to in the specification? 6. Identify non-structural aspects to the specification Non-structural aspects of a specification generally cover those elements of a building not instrumental in bearing a load or resisting some force (such as uplift, lateral wind forces, or earth pressure on a retaining wall for example). Two common non-structural aspects are: • • services such as plumbing and electricity installation of most PC items such as appliances, fittings, tiles and the like. Identifying the key features of products in the specification Typically the specification lists these groups of products • • • • • • • • • • • Masonry (though may stipulate load ratings and weathering capacity) Cladding Linings Joinery Flooring Tiling Electrical fittings Plumbing fittings Hardware fittings Insulation Appliances Generally the standard specification will allow for the client to have input into most of these items. The choices being based upon aesthetic and service value to which the client will often seek the builders opinion or advice. However, as with the masonry listed above, the standard may specify some constraints upon choice due to energy efficiency requirements (in the case of appliances, plumbing fixtures, window frames or even flooring), and or structural integrity (such as the capacity of glazing to withstand wind forces). Page 30 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin CPCCBC4012A Read and interpret plans and specifications Task: 1. Using the construction plans provides list 5 non-structural elements for which the client might wish to have input into determining the specific form of material or item. 2. In the construction plans provided, what evidence is there that the client has already had input into determining some aspects of the materials or finish. 3. By referring to in the plans provided and the energy efficiency audit, explain why the timber flooring in the living room could not be changed to a cheap floating floor without some other alterations to the design. Page 31 of 31 2010 TAFE NSW Riverina Institute Albury Campus Building & Construction Glenn P. Costin