Read and Interpret Plans Manual by Mst Ejc 2022

INTERPRETING CONSTRUCTION PLANS GUIDE
INTERPRETING
CONSTRUCTION PLANS
GUIDE
(A STEP BY STEP GUIDE FOR YOUR CONSTRUCTION NEEDS)
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COPYRIGHTS RESERVED BY MST.CONNECT -ENGR.J.CORTEZ (2022)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
INTRODUCTION TO CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS
TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS
MEANING OF COMMON SYMBOLS IN PLANS
SCALES AND PAPER SIZES
ABBREVIATION AND SYMBOLS
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS INTERPRETATION
STRUCTURAL/CIVIL DRAWINGS INTERPRETATION
ELECTRICAL DRAWINGS INTERPRETATION
SANITARY/PLUMBING INTERPRETATIONS
CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS
CONSTRUCTION COMPLIANCE CODES
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DEFINITION
▪ the general term used for drawings that form part of the production information that
is incorporated into tender documentation and then the contract documents for
the construction works. This means they have legal significance and form part of
the agreement between the employer and the contractor.
▪ a graphical representation of what will be built, how it will be laid out, the
components, framework, and dimensions. There is a construction drawing
highlighting the details for every aspect of a construction project.
IMPORTANCE OF CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS

❖ The designer can translate the client’s ideas into a definite, practical representation
of what he or she wants.
❖ The clients can ensure that his or her ideas have been correctly interpreted by the
designer.
❖ The contractor can give a firm estimate of what the building will cost.
❖ The Designer and Sub-Contractors know exactly where and how to construct the
building
What is a construction drawing?

It is a graphical representation of what will be built, how it will be laid out, the components,
framework, and dimensions. There is a construction drawing highlighting the details for every
aspect of a construction project.
Construction Drawings including each of its subtypes are helpful to different groups of
workforce assigned with doing or overlooking the various tasks that make up a construction
project.
How are construction drawings made?

Rarely, construction plans drawn by hand anymore. They are either sketched and rendered
using computer-aided drafting such as computer-aided design (CAD) software. And in recent
times, Building Information Modeling (BIM) software has made it easy to render and visualize
in detail the virtual construction models (VCM).
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Types of Construction drawings use regularly in construction

industries
1. Block Plan
This drawing gives a layout of the site or the buildings in the surrounding area, laid out on a
map drawn to scale.
• It gives a firsthand idea of the roads, boundaries and other such details that are
necessary to understand where your construction site lies.
• It helps the person dealing with your construction plan or project request to
understand what and where you are proposing it and help you out with it too.
• Block plans are made in relation to Ordnance Survey Maps and the recommended
scales used are 1:2500, 1:1250 or 1:500.
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2. Architectural Drawings
Architectural Drawings are drawing work that is used in building drawings to depict the
dimensions, depth, and layout of the actual building, prior to beginning the construction.
Architectural Drawings act as a blueprint construction, drawn to scale, to help the engineers
visualize the project.
Various types of Architectural Drawings commonly used are:
• Foundation plan – not to be mistaken for just the ground or basement floor plan.
Foundation Plans are drawing work to render any of the floors of the building being
constructed. They help visualize the dimension, size, shape, height and configuration
of rooms/stairs/landings with each other.
• Floor plans – in-depth rendering of the layout of the rooms for each floor. It
describes in 2D the orientation of rooms and components to each other. Floor plans
may or may not be utilized in commercial or non-commercial building projects, but it
is necessarily still made as part of the drawing work.
• Sectional Drawings – these are drawings that depict a part or whole of the
framework in sliced form. It helps understand the measurements of various building
components with each other, the materials used in the construction of those
components, the height, depth, and hollowness, etc.
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• Elevation Drawings – these architectural drawings offer an aesthetic overview of the

various components of the building such as columns, windows, and doorframes. It
also helps understand the relative surface, internal markings, and relative height of
these different components to each other.
3. Production Drawings
These Construction Drawings are used to convey functional information to the workers and
engineers on site. It describes the materials, the assembly of various parts, the tools required,
the dimensions, and other information required during the process. It may also include
additional information or an infographic on how to meet those set requirements.
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4. Structural Drawings
Structural Drawings also serve as civil engineering drawings. They are useful in understanding
the physical nitty-gritty of a building framework. They act as a structural design guide for the
workers and on-site engineers. Common types of structural drawings are:
• General Note – an overview of all the codes, procedures, and abbreviations, etc
required to give a comprehensive guide to getting to work on the construction site.
This includes concrete mix, details for other structural drawings, lengths and
construction types of each component, etc.
• Excavation Drawing – this civil engineering drawing describes the dimensions and
positions for the excavation process prior to the actual building work. It covers
details like tunneling, shafts, removal of soil, grid plans, etc required to start the
groundwork.
• Column Layouts – These structural drawings include the layouts of the way columns
will be laid out. It makes it easier for contractors to plan the layout of the building
and start the process by identifying the position and distance between columns
across the floor.
• Beam Layouts – It includes all the beam-like structures, such as the ones supporting
the roof and the windows, or the beams used for strengthening purposes. They are
designed for each floor and cover the length, height, material, etc.
• Roof slab layouts – this civil engineering drawing describes the exact dimensions of
all the slabs required for roofs or slants. It can be designed over AutoCAD software
as it requires precision and data.
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5. Electrical drawings
Most residential construction drawings or commercial construction drawings require a

functional outline of the number of power outlets, light fixtures, fan fixtures, etc. They also
include the wiring pattern and details about the electrical load it can carry. Common details
included in Electrical Drawings are:
• Earthing layout
• Light fixture layout
• Generator and other equipment
• Cable tray layout
• Hazardous area classifications
• Lighting protection system
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6. Plumbing Drawings
Just like electrical layouts, plumbing is another part of any residential or commercial
construction drawing that marks the points where plumbing components need to be set up.
Space is left here accordingly for further pipe and sanitary ware fixtures to be added once
the structural component is finished. Plumbing drawings commonly include:
• Pipes –water pipes, drainage pipes, internal pipes

• Material of pipes
• Outlet points – taps, sinks, tanks etc
• Position and location of pipes and outlets
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7. HVAC Drawings
These are known as mechanical construction drawings. They provide details and a design
framework for heating and ventilation systems in a building. Central heating/cooling, air
conditioning vents, ventilators, etc are all included according to the need and site of the
building plans. Builders use these design constructs in their process accordingly
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8. Firefighting Drawings
In today’s construction systems, safety design is paramount. Firefight Drawings are also a
part of blueprint drawings of a building that allocate points for fire hoses, fire escapes,
water outlets, sandbags, or any other fire safety equipment required by the regulatory body
overseeing the project.
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9. Environmental Plans
Making sure environmental guidelines and management is properly followed is a part of

construction projects that cannot be overlooked. The aim is to minimize environmental
damage and future negative impacts of the construction project. It includes measures like:
• Chemical disposal mechanisms

• Management of erosion and sedimentation
• Outlining environmental guideline compliance measures
• Measures to handle accidents and emergencies like fire
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10. Finishing/Interior Drawings
These include finer and more detailed plans of the building after the whole structural and
architectural framework has been set up. These are required for the aesthetic and
functional value of the building. These construction drawings include details of:
• Tile patterns,
• Floor patterns
• False ceilings
• Paint colors and textures
• Plaster
• Woodwork
• Motifs and designs
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MEANING OF COMMON SYMBOLS USED ON

FLOOR PLANS
FIGURE 1.1 “TYPICAL FIRST FLOOR PLAN”
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FIGURE 1.2 “TYPICAL SECOND FLOOR PLAN”
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SCALES
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PAPER SIZES
A4
A3
A1
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ABBREVIATIONS AND SYMBOLS

-Some drawings need to convey a lot of information. To avoid confusion and to save
space, abbreviation and symbols are used.
ARCHITECTURAL ABBREVIATIONS
ABBREVIATION | NAME
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ABBREVIATION | NAME
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ABBREVIATION | NAME
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ABBREVIATION | NAME
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SYMBOLS
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Architectural Drawings are drawing work that is used in building drawings to depict the
dimensions, depth, and layout of the actual building, prior to beginning the construction.
Architectural Drawings act as a blueprint construction, drawn to scale, to help the engineers
visualize the project.
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SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

A Site Development Plan depicts the general layout and configuration of a site, including
building footprints, parking and street layout, conceptual landscaping and lighting, site
cross section drawings, and building elevations.
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PERSPECTIVE
The technique or process of representing on a plane or curved surface the spatial relation
of objects as they might appear to the eye
VICINITY MAP
A drawing located on the plat which sets forth by dimensions or other means, the
relationship of the proposed subdivision or use to
other nearby developments or landmarks and community facilities and services within the
city and/or county in order to better locate and orient the area in question.
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FLOOR PLANS
A floor plan is a type of drawing that shows you the layout of a home or property from
above. Floor plans typically illustrate the location of walls, windows, doors, and stairs, as
well as fixed installations such as bathroom fixtures, kitchen cabinetry, and appliances.
Floor plans are usually drawn to scale and will indicate room types, room sizes, and wall
lengths. They may also show furniture layouts and include outdoor areas.
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ELEVATIONS
Elevation drawings are a specific type of drawing architects use to illustrate a building or
portion of a building. An Elevation is drawn from a vertical plane looking straight on to a
building facade or interior surface. This is as if you directly in front of a building and looked
straight at it. Elevations are a common design drawing and technical architectural or
engineering convention for graphic representation of architecture. Elevation drawings are
orthographic projections. This means they are not drawn in perspective and there is no
foreshortening.
SECTIONS
Section drawings are a specific type of drawing architects use to illustrate a building or
portion of a building. A section is drawn from a vertical plane slicing through a building.
This is as if you cut through a space vertically and stood directly in front looking straight at
it. Sections are a common design drawing and technical architectural or engineering
convention for graphic representation of architecture. Section drawings are orthographic
projections (with the exception of section perspectives). This means they are not drawn in
perspective and there is no foreshortening.
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REFLECTED CEILING PLANS

A Reflected Ceiling Plan is a plan of the ceiling within a space. This is drawn looking
down as if there is a mirror on the floor reflecting the ceiling. The reflected ceiling
plan is often referred to as an RCP. This architectural drawing will show things light
lighting, structure, ceiling heights, soffits, etc…
DOORS AND WINDOWS SCHEDULE

Window and door schedules provide the additional information that a contractor will need
in order to install these items: the different types of windows and doors to be used in a
building, their locations, and the hardware and finishes to be used with each of them.
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Structural Drawings also serve as civil engineering drawings. They are useful in understanding
the physical nitty-gritty of a building framework. They act as a structural design guide for the
workers and on-site engineers. Common types of structural drawings are:
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GENERAL NOTES
General Note – an overview of all the codes, procedures, and abbreviations, etc required to
give a comprehensive guide to getting to work on the construction site. This includes
concrete mix, details for other structural drawings, lengths and construction types of each
component, etc.
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FOUNDATION PLAN
A foundation plan is a plane view of a structure. That is, it looks as if it were projected onto
a horizontal plane and passed through the structure.
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COLUMN DETAILS/LAYOUT
These structural drawings include the layouts of the way columns will be laid out. It
makes it easier for contractors to plan the layout of the building and start the
process by identifying the position and distance between columns across the floor.
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BEAMS DETAILS/LAYOUT
Beam Layouts – It includes all the beam-like structures, such as the ones
supporting the roof and the windows, or the beams used for strengthening
purposes. They are designed for each floor and cover the length, height, material,
etc.
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ROOF FRAMING DETAILS/LAYOUT

Roof framing layouts – this civil engineering drawing describes the exact
dimensions of all the details required for roofs or slants.
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Most residential construction drawings or commercial construction drawings require a

functional outline of the number of power outlets, light fixtures, fan fixtures, etc. They also
include the wiring pattern and details about the electrical load it can carry. Common details
included in Electrical Drawings are:
• Earthing layout
• Light fixture layout
• Generator and other equipment
• Cable tray layout
• Hazardous area classifications
• Lighting protection system
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LIGHTING LAYOUT
This electrical floor plan sample shows the lighting and switch layout."In
building wiring, a light switch is a switch, most commonly used to operate
electric lights, permanently connected equipment, or electrical outlets.
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POWER LAYOUT
This electrical floor plan sample shows the Power socket outlets, layout and
details.
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LOAD SCHEDULES AND PANEL BOX

Preparing a load schedule helps in determining the amount of power required
for an installation. Electrical engineers then use this information to properly
size conductors, conduits and determine the proper overload and other
protection and control systems.
Panelboards are used to safely distribute electricity throughout commercial

and industrial facilities. A panelboard is a component of an electrical
distribution system which divides an electrical power feed into branch circuits,
while providing a protective circuit breaker or fuse for each circuit, in a
common enclosure.
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ELECTRICAL GENERAL NOTES

Electrical General Notes – an overview of all the codes, procedures, and
abbreviations, etc required to give a comprehensive guide to getting to work
on the construction site.
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PANEL RISER DIAGRAM

Riser diagrams show distribution components such as bus risers, bus plugs,
panelboards, and transformers from the point of entry up to the small branch
circuits on each level. These drawings can sometimes share the layout with
alarm systems, telecom, and internet cables.
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Just like electrical layouts, plumbing is another part of any residential or commercial
construction drawing that marks the points where plumbing components need to be set up.
Space is left here accordingly for further pipe and sanitary ware fixtures to be added once
the structural component is finished. Plumbing drawings commonly include:
• Pipes –water pipes, drainage pipes, internal pipes

• Material of pipes
• Outlet points – taps, sinks, tanks etc
• Position and location of pipes and outlets
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WATERLINE LAYOUT
The water line layout or water distribuiton system is the network of pipes and
fittings for conveying water to the plumbing fixtures
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SEWERLINE LAYOUT
is an underground pipe or tunnel system for transporting sewage from
houses and commercial buildings (but not stormwater) to a sewage
treatment plant or disposal.
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DRAINAGE LAYOUT
is an underground pipe or tunnel system for transporting stormwater and
drain water from houses and commercial buildings to a drainage system.
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SEPTIC TANK
septic tank is an underground chamber made of concrete, fiberglass, or
plastic through which domestic wastewater (sewage) flows for basic
treatment.
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PLUMBING ISOMETRIC DIAGRAMS

Piping isometrics allow the pipe to be drawing in a manner by which the length
, width and depth are shown in a single view. Isometrics are usually drawn from
information found on a plan and elevation views.
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PLUMBING GENERAL NOTES

Plumbing General Notes – an overview of all the codes, procedures, and
abbreviations, etc required to give a comprehensive guide to getting to work
on the construction site.
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Code compliance, by strict definition, is compliance with a written,

adopted or required set of rules that have been set into a code
format.
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Construction specifications, also known, as specs, detail the work and workmanship needed
to complete a construction project. And there’s no way to get around them. As required
documents during the design phase, they’re part of a formal process. According to
the Dictionary of Architecture & Construction a specification is, “a written document
describing in detail the scope of work, materials to be used, methods of installation, and
quality of workmanship for a parcel of work to be placed under contract; usually utilized in
conjunction with working (contract) drawings in building construction.”
Furthermore, according to The Construction Specifier, “specification sections are
customized in order to accurately describe the intended materials, and then these sections
are used by the team to identify the type of products that should be used onsite.”
As mentioned, construction specifications are prepared before construction begins, in the
design phase as part of the contract documents. Although their structure varies project-by-
project, typically they reflect packages to be given to subcontractors from contractors.
Specifically, this is extremely helpful in the tender process.
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CONSTRUCTION
SPECIFICATIONS
Project: Two Storey Residential
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C O N S T R U C T I O N S P E C I F I C A T I O N S
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Site Clearing
2. Earthworks
a. Excavation
b. Backfilling
c. Termite Control
3. Concrete and Masonry Works
4. Reinforcement Bars
5. Carpentry Works
6. Formworks
7. Roofing Works
8. Electrical Works
9. Plumbing Works
10. Finishing Works
11. Windows
12. Doors
13. Fire Department
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1. SITE CLEARING
A. Removal and disposal of vegetation, brush, rubbish, loose rocks, large stones and
metallic debris occurring within the areas to be cleared as well as removal of roots,
matted roots and organic materials to a depth of not less than 50 mm below original
surface level of ground or to natural rock elevation.
B. Removal and satisfactory disposal of any structure that obtrude, encroach upon,
or otherwise obstruct the Work indicated on Drawings.
JOB CONDITIONS
A. Traffic: Conduct site clearing operations to ensure minimum interference with

roads, streets, walks and other adjacent occupied or used facilities. Do not
use facilities without permission from the Engineer or authorities having
jurisdiction.
B. Protection of Existing Improvements (If required): Provide protection as necessary

to prevent damage to existing improvements indicated to remain in place.
DISPOSAL OF WASTE MATERIALS
A. Transport waste materials and unsuitable topsoil materials to the designated spoil
areas and dispose of as directed by the Engineer.
B. Dust Control: Amount of dust resulting from demolition shall be controlled to
prevent the spread of dust to occupied portions of the construction site and
to avoid creation of a nuisance in the surrounding area. Use of water will
not be permitted when it will result in, or create, hazardous or objectionable
conditions.
2.0 EARTHWORKS:
- Excavation, filling, and compacting as well as site grading as shown on Drawings and
as specified herein.
a. Excavation for Footings must not be less than 1.30 meters in depth from the
natural ground level or until the desired grade for foundations.
b. Backfilling; Fill materials shall be free of rock or gravel larger than 75 mm in any
dimension, debris, waste, organic material and other deleterious matter.
Compacted at every 300mm as per layer preparation of backfilling system, until
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the desire soil bearing capacity and or to the final grade level, as per site
Engineer approval.
2.2 - TERMITE CONTROL
C. Soil treatment for termite control as specified in this section

1. JOB CONDITION
A. Restrictions: Apply soil treatment solution after the completion of
excavation, filling and grading operations unless otherwise required in
construction operations.
B. To insure penetration, do not apply soil treatment to excessively wet soils
or during inclement weather. Comply with handling and application
instructions of the soil toxicant manufacturer.
2. SOIL TREATMENT SOLUTION

A. Soil Treatment Solution:
1. Termiticide active ingredient shall be diluted with water of Permethrin
with a minimum percentage of 36.8% percent or chlorpyrifos
with a minimum percent of 45.64%. Or equivalent brand.
B. Application Rates and Method of Application: As recommended by the

manufacturer or his authorized applicator for the various locations
and as approved by the Engineer.
C. Apply soil treatment solution under slab on grade structures, under footing
structures, masonry foundations or grade beams, at expansion and
control joints as recommended by the manufacturer.
D. Use an emulsive concentrate termiticide for dilution with water, specifically

formulated to prevent infestation by termites. The solution shall
consist of Permethrin chemical elements and concentrations and shall
be diluted as recommended by the manufacturer. Other solutions may
be used as recommended by the Applicator and approved by the
Engineer as well as local governing authorities. Soil treatment
solutions shall not be injurious to planting. Fuel oil will not be
permitted as a diluent.
E. APPLICATION
A. Surface Preparation: Remove foreign matter which could decrease

effectiveness of treatment on areas to be treated. Loosen, rake, and
level soil to be treated except previously compacted areas under slabs
and foundations. Termiticide may be applied before placement of
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compacted fill under slabs, if recommended by Manufacturer.
F. APPLICATION RATES
A. Application rates at the different locations specified herein shall be as

recommended by the Manufacturer at the rate to achieve horizontal
and vertical barriers against infestation.
B. Treat soil before concrete slabs are placed using either power sprayer
or tank-type garden sprayer and in accordance with the following:
1. Apply termiticide to soil in critical areas under slabs, including

entire inside perimeter inside of foundation walls, along both
sides of interior partition walls, around plumbing pipes and
electric conduit penetrating slab and around interior column
footers.
2. Apply termiticide as an overall treatment under slabs and

attached slab areas.
3. Apply termiticide along outside edges of the building. Dig a

trench 150 mm to 200 mm wide along the outside of foundation
to a depth of not less than 300 mm. Mix chemical solution with
the soil as it is being replaced in trench.
C. At Hollow Masonry Foundations or Grade Beams: Treat voids with

termiticide by pouring directly into the hollow spaces.
D. At Expansion Joints, Control Joints and Grade Areas: Apply termiticide

to areas of penetration through the slabs.
E. Reapply soil treatment solution to areas disturbed by subsequent

excavation or other construction activities following application.
G. . PRECAUTION
A. Post signs in areas of application to warn workers that termiticide

been applied. Remove signs when areas are covered by other
construction.
H. . RE-APPLICATION
A. Reapply soil treatment solution to areas disturbed by subsequent
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excavation or other construction activities following application.
3.0 CONCRETE AND MASONRY WORKS:

a. Cement to be use must be Portland cement / Class A type or equivalent.
b. Cement must be keep and stored in dried and clean and closed store room to
avoid hardened and wet.
c. Cement must be store only within 30 days to avoid expiration or loss of strength.
d. During the delivery, cement must be carefully keep in safe. Avoid broken of shield
or wrapper to keep the quality of the product.
e. Sand Aggregates, must be Crushed or Washed sand to maintain the strength of
the concrete.
f. Gravel, gravel must be crushed and ¾” in size for footings, wall footing, columns,
grade beams, suspended beams, roof beams and slabs. Use Class A (1:2-1/2:4)
mixture of concrete.
g. 3/8” size Crushed gravel is used for concrete hollow block (CHB) mortar mixed in
1:3:5 or class B.
h. Plastering, used washed, clean and screened sand for plaster finish. Used Class A
(1:3) mixture.
i. Concrete Masonry Unit ( CMU ) use 5” thk .CHB for external wall and 4” CHB for
internal partition wall all Non- load Bearing.
4.00 REINFORCEMENT BARS:

a. Structural reinforcing steel bars must be Grade 40 in strength. Use for footing,
columns, retaining wall, suspended beams, suspended slab and other major
structural support for structure. Steel bars must be new, straight and free from
rust.
b. Splicing; all splicing for reinforcement bars must not be less than 50 x diameter.
Avoid repeat on bending, it decrease the strength of steel.
c. Grade 33 reinforcing bars should only used for light structure, like; CHB dowel,
slab on fill, fencing steel bars and walkways.
d. Upon delivery, all steel must be store in clean and dry area. And carefully arrange
to avoid damage and bending. Covered with G.I. sheets to protect from rain and
dust.
5.00 CARPENTRY WORKS:

a. All wooden door jamb used Guijo or Yacal timber or equivalent as per project
Eng’r. approval and recommendation.
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b. For Flush door wooden frame, used Tanguile or equivalent. And must be kiln
dried to avoid twisting and shrinkage.
c. Interior ceiling joist must be metal furrings or equivalent, straight and hard.
Applied with anti termite medicine before covered with ceiling finishing
materials.
d. For kitchen cabinet and closet wooden frames must be Apitong timber or
equivalent. Should be kiln dried and applied for anti termite control.
e. All door jambs and frames within wet areas should be treated with
waterproofing chemicals to avoid softening the timber.
6.00 FORMWORKS:
a. All wood works to be used for scaffolding, frames and forms must be Tanguile or
equivalent, strong enough and straight.
b. Vertical support must not more than 1.00 meter on center for spacing bothways.
c. Horizontal bracing should not more than 1.20 meter on center, fastened with 4”
CW nail.
d. Always check alignment both vertically and horizontally to avoid unbalance
strength of support.
e. ½”thick ordinary plywood forms for columns, framed with 2” x 3” timber
vertically and support with 2” x 2” at 0.40 meter on center.
f. ½” thickness of ordinary plywood for suspended beams and slab. Framed with
2” x 3” at 0.30 meter on center floor joist.
7.00 ROOFING WORKS:

a. Roof framing is made of steel material, grade 60 . All joint must be fully welded,
to be check regularly by the project Eng’r. See roof framing plan and details for
sizes and schedule. Rafter 2” x 6” x 1.50mm thk RHS and 2” x 4” x 1.5mm thk
RHS ( G.I. ) Conforming to ASTM A 36. Angle cleats and other members shall
conform to ASTM A 36 .
b. Purlins to be used 2” x 3” x 1.00 mm minimum thickness, (GI) galv. Steel C -
Purlins with maximum spacing of 0.70 meter on center as per mfr.roof
requirements .
c. 0.5mm thick of color metal sheet roofing, gutter, ridge roll, valley and flushing is
recommended prior to modern design and long span sheeting. Color and design
as per owner recommendation and approval. Provide 10mm thk. double face
alum. backing roofing insulation.
d. Fastener use 3.5mm diameter x ½” of blind rivets, with # 26 G.I. sheet strut, sliced
in ¾” width and 0.25 meter length or varies, as per actual measurements. To be
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fastened from color roof sheeting to purlins. Do not use self drilling screw to
avoid leakage of roofing.
e. All steel structure frames, purlins, facia boards, bracing and welded area must
be coated with epoxy primer paint for primary and to finished with gloss enamel
paint.
f. Anchor bolt must be galvanized coated (See detail drawing for size and shape).
g. Splicing of Ridge roll, Valley, gutter and flashing should not less than 200 mm
and not more than 300 mm. To be fixed with 2.5 mm diameter blind rivets and
sealed in between before closure of splicing joint. Sealant must be vulca seal or
equivalent as per site Eng’r. approval.
h. Gutter must be slope with 1 % down to roof drain area.
i. Roof drain must be made of stainless steel and will fixed to avoid overflowing
the rain water.
j. All fastener head and cutting edge of sheets, gutter and other parts of the sheet
scratched during installation and fixing must be coated with touch up paint after
installation accomplished, touch up paint must be supplied with the roofing
supplier for accuracy of colors and quality.
8.00 ELECTRICAL WORKS:

a. Conduits concealed in concrete must be in PVC pipe emerald brand or equivalent
as per electrical Eng’r approval. Will aligned, supported and sealed to avoid
broken and leakage during concrete pouring. And to be supervised by electrical
foreman.
b. All PVC elbow used electrical elbow for every corner or curve to maintain cable
comfort for inserting and maintenance. (Never use water elbow for electrical
works to avoid cable scratching and damaging during pulling of cable works).
c. Circuit breaker must be GE brand or equivalent, as per electrical Eng’r.
recommendations and approval.
d. All exposed to concrete conduits must be EMT pipe to avoid rats and other
insects damages. Will fixed and supported.
e. Convenience outlets, switches and plates must be in National brand or
equivalent. Colors as per owner approval and suggestion.
f. Cable must be Phelps dodge (American wire) or equivalent as per Eng’r.
approval.
g. Lighting fixture must be prior to owner selection of design and colors and as per
Eng’r approval of brand and quality.
9.00 PLUMBING WORKS:
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a. Soil and sanitary pipe must be in PVC schedule 40 (S-40) Neltex in brand or
equivalent.
b. All soil and waste pipe should be sloped to 1 %. Pipe to be installed under ground
must be will supported and backfilled carefully to avoid leakage and broken the
pipe. All joint must be sanded and clean before applying sealant.
c. Cold water line pipe used PPR brand PN20 or equivalent .
d. Hot water line used PPR pipe schedule 40 (S-40)or equivalent PPR.
e. All Water closet, lavatory and kitchen sink fittings or mixers, shower valve,
shower head, angle valve used U.S. or Germany made or equivalent Stainless
steel kitchen sink must be 2mm thick ( G – 304 )with hair line finish or as per
owner recommendation or equivalent.
f. Water closets, Lavatory, Soap holder, Paper holder and other sanitary fixture
must be American standard or equivalent. Colors and design as per owner
approval and selection.
g. Wet floors like toilet, bathroom and laundry room, used unglazed tile for
finishing. Colors and design as per owner approval.
h. Walls for toilet and bath used glazed tiles.
10.00 FINISHING WORKS:

a. Plastering; for CHB and concrete walls must be plastered with plain cement. With
mixture of Class A (1:3) or one part of cement and three part of screened sand.
b. For wet area plastering; every mixture of Portland cement and sand add one bag
of Sahara cement or Thoroseal for waterproofing system.
c. Painting; External concrete wall must be finished with gloss latex paint. And for
wooden used gloss enamel paint.
d. Interior concrete wall used Semi-gloss latex paint and for wooden used Semi-
gloss enamel paint. All paint is Boysen or equivalent. Colors as per owner
suggestion and approval.
e. Interior ceiling must be of Gloss enamel paint boysen or equivalent.
f. Living room and hallway floor use Granite tiles or marblel.
g. Dining and Kitchen floor use ceramic tiles.
h. Stairs use granite marvel or equivalent.
i. Bedrooms used porcelain / Ceramic tile floor finish.
11.00 WINDOWS:
58 | P a g e
a. Window for Rooms, at Ground Floor & at Second floor used aluminum powder
coated framing ¼ ”thk. reflective glass sliding window. Colors as per
Architect/Owner approval.
b. All other windows used aluminum powder coated framing with ¼” thk.
reflective glass fix window . Color as per Architect/Owner approval.
12.00 DOORS:
a. For main door used wooden solid or paneled door, kiln dry and coated with
polyurethane varnish finish.
b. Service door used Solid or paneled door, kiln dry and coated with stain and
polyurethane varnish finish.
c. Toilet and bathroom doors used wooden and waterproof flush door.
d. Bedrooms used Mahogany wooden panel door.
e. Terrace used solid / panel wood door and Aluminum door with powder coated
finish.
13.00 FIRE DEPARTMENT

a. All concrete firewall (if any) should be coated with fire retardant solution as per
fire department recommendation and approval.
b. In case BFP requires Wet/Dry Type Sprinkler System need to follow regulations.
c. All materials , equipment necessary to complete the BFP requirements need to
comply.
59 | P a g e
FINAL STATEMENTS
This manual main purpose is to help students,
professionals, and contractors to somehow understood and
help them to understand and interpret the construction
drawings in a professional way. If there are errors in this
guide, the author of this manual is open for revising this
document.
This is also a compilations of other interpreting

guides for plans and not intended for own purpose. The
purpose of this manual is to help our fellow people in
understanding more about construction drawings.
In behalf of MST Connect. We would like to thank

you for supporting our training. Goodluck and God
bless. Happy Learning!
-ENGR. JONATHAN CORTEZ
60 | P a g e

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INTERPRETING CONSTRUCTION PLANS GUIDE

IMPORTANCE OF CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS

What is a construction drawing?

How are construction drawings made?

Types of Construction drawings use regularly in construction

Various types of Architectural Drawings commonly used are:

• Elevation Drawings – these architectural drawings offer an aesthetic overview of the

Most residential construction drawings or commercial construction drawings require a

• Pipes –water pipes, drainage pipes, internal pipes

Making sure environmental guidelines and management is properly followed is a part of

• Chemical disposal mechanisms

10. Finishing/Interior Drawings

MEANING OF COMMON SYMBOLS USED ON

FIGURE 1.1 “TYPICAL FIRST FLOOR PLAN”

FIGURE 1.2 “TYPICAL SECOND FLOOR PLAN”

ABBREVIATIONS AND SYMBOLS

SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

REFLECTED CEILING PLANS

DOORS AND WINDOWS SCHEDULE

ROOF FRAMING DETAILS/LAYOUT

Most residential construction drawings or commercial construction drawings require a

LOAD SCHEDULES AND PANEL BOX

Panelboards are used to safely distribute electricity throughout commercial

ELECTRICAL GENERAL NOTES

PANEL RISER DIAGRAM

• Pipes –water pipes, drainage pipes, internal pipes

PLUMBING ISOMETRIC DIAGRAMS

PLUMBING GENERAL NOTES

Code compliance, by strict definition, is compliance with a written,

the Dictionary of Architecture & Construction a specification is, “a written document

conjunction with working (contract) drawings in building construction.”

Furthermore, according to The Construction Specifier, “specification sections are

As mentioned, construction specifications are prepared before construction begins, in the

project, typically they reflect packages to be given to subcontractors from contractors.

Specifically, this is extremely helpful in the tender process.

Project: Two Storey Residential

3. Concrete and Masonry Works

10. Finishing Works

13. Fire Department

A. Traffic: Conduct site clearing operations to ensure minimum interference with

B. Protection of Existing Improvements (If required): Provide protection as necessary

DISPOSAL OF WASTE MATERIALS

2.2 - TERMITE CONTROL

C. Soil treatment for termite control as specified in this section

2. SOIL TREATMENT SOLUTION

B. Application Rates and Method of Application: As recommended by the

D. Use an emulsive concentrate termiticide for dilution with water, specifically

A. Surface Preparation: Remove foreign matter which could decrease

compacted fill under slabs, if recommended by Manufacturer.

A. Application rates at the different locations specified herein shall be as

1. Apply termiticide to soil in critical areas under slabs, including

2. Apply termiticide as an overall treatment under slabs and

3. Apply termiticide along outside edges of the building. Dig a

C. At Hollow Masonry Foundations or Grade Beams: Treat voids with

D. At Expansion Joints, Control Joints and Grade Areas: Apply termiticide

E. Reapply soil treatment solution to areas disturbed by subsequent

A. Post signs in areas of application to warn workers that termiticide

A. Reapply soil treatment solution to areas disturbed by subsequent

excavation or other construction activities following application.

3.0 CONCRETE AND MASONRY WORKS:

4.00 REINFORCEMENT BARS:

5.00 CARPENTRY WORKS:

7.00 ROOFING WORKS:

8.00 ELECTRICAL WORKS: