In construction, various types of drawings are used to communicate the design, specifications, and instructions for building a structure. Three common types of construction drawings are Blueprints, Plans, and Elevations. Each serves a unique purpose in the overall design and building process. Here’s an overview of each: For more information please visit konstruktionshjalpen

1. Blueprints

  • Definition: Traditionally, “blueprints” referred to a specific method of reproducing technical drawings where the lines would appear white on a blue background. Today, it’s more of a colloquial term for construction drawings in general.
  • Purpose: Blueprints are used to convey technical information about a building or structure, including dimensions, materials, and construction methods.
  • Content: They include detailed instructions for contractors and builders, showing the layout, dimensions, and design of various components (foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, etc.).
  • Types: The term can cover various types of plans and detailed drawings like floor plans, electrical plans, plumbing layouts, and mechanical diagrams.

2. Plans

  • Definition: Plans are specific types of construction drawings that provide a bird’s-eye view (horizontal section) of a structure, typically as seen from above.
  • Purpose: Plans are used to show the layout and relationship between different spaces or parts of a structure at various levels (e.g., floor plans, roof plans).
  • Types of Plans:
    • Floor Plan: Shows the layout of rooms and spaces at a particular level of a building.
    • Site Plan: Illustrates the placement of the structure in relation to the property boundaries, landscape, and other external elements.
    • Foundation Plan: Shows the layout of the foundation, including footings and other supporting structures.
    • Roof Plan: Displays the design of the roof, including slopes, materials, and any features like chimneys or skylights.

3. Elevations

  • Definition: Elevations are drawings that show a vertical view of a building, typically from the outside, showing one face or side at a time.
  • Purpose: Elevations are used to display the exterior appearance and structural elements of the building from different perspectives (front, rear, sides).
  • Types of Elevations:
    • Exterior Elevation: Focuses on the outside of the building, showing the relationship between doors, windows, roofs, and other architectural elements.
    • Interior Elevation: Shows interior walls of a space, often used to detail complex spaces such as kitchens or bathrooms.
  • Details: Elevations include information about the materials, finishes, and heights of various elements in the structure, like windows, doors, and wall heights.

How They Work Together

  • Blueprints** (or construction drawings) include both plans and elevations as part of a complete set of construction documents.
  • Plans give a horizontal view, showing the layout and relationships of spaces.
  • Elevations complement plans by providing vertical information and visualizing the structure from outside or inside.

These drawings, together with other technical drawings, create a comprehensive guide for building professionals, ensuring accurate construction that meets the design and functional requirements of a project.