If you’ve ever looked at a set of construction plans and felt overwhelmed by the lines, symbols, and abbreviations—you’re not alone. Whether you’re a property owner, city planner, or simply involved in the project on the sidelines, having a basic understanding of how to read construction drawings can help you feel more confident and informed throughout the building process.
At Benson-Orth General Contractors, we believe every stakeholder should feel empowered—not confused—when it comes to understanding what’s on paper before it becomes reality. Here’s a simple guide to help you get there.
What Are Construction Plans?
Construction plans—often called blueprints or drawings—are detailed, scaled representations of a building or site. They serve as the roadmap for the construction team, containing everything from the overall layout to minute details like materials, electrical pathways, and plumbing locations.
The Core Components of Construction Plans
Let’s break down the key sections you’ll typically find in a set of construction drawings:
1. Title Sheet
This is your plan’s table of contents. It typically includes:
- The name of the project
- The drawing index (list of all included plans)
- Contact info for the architect, engineer, and general contractor
- Site data (like zoning codes, square footage, and legal description)
2. Site Plan
This shows the full property and where the structure sits on the land. It includes:
- Property lines
- Easements and setbacks
- Utility connections
- Landscape details
Example: A commercial site plan might show where a new parking lot drains into a stormwater pond.
3. Floor Plans
These are bird’s-eye views of each floor in the building, showing:
- Room layouts and dimensions
- Wall locations
- Door and window placements
- Fixtures like sinks or appliances
Tip: Look for room names and note measurements, typically in feet and inches.
4. Elevations
These are straight-on views of the building’s exterior walls. They help you understand:
- Building height and symmetry
- Window and door sizes and placement
- Exterior finishes
You’ll often see all four sides (north, south, east, west) labeled individually.
5. Sections
Sections are like slices through the building, revealing:
- Ceiling heights
- Wall compositions
- Roof slopes
Think of it as cutting a cake to see what’s inside.
6. Details
These zoom in on specific parts of the building, such as:
- Stair construction
- Wall connections
- Window installations
Even seemingly small things can be carefully drawn at this level to prevent mistakes.
Common Symbols and Abbreviations
Here are a few basics you’ll frequently come across:
SymbolMeaning⬛Wall (usually solid lines)⬜Door swing∆ Electrical outlet WWindow C GCeiling AFFAbove Finished Floor
Pro tip: Use the legend or symbol key included in the plans—every set is a bit different.
Why It Matters
Even if you’re not designing or building the project yourself, knowing how to read the plans can help you:
- Ask better questions during project meetings
- Ensure your vision aligns with what’s being built
- Spot issues early, like incorrect room dimensions or layout surprises
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a construction degree to understand the basics. With a little familiarity and the right guide, you can navigate construction plans with confidence. And at Benson-Orth, we’re always here to walk you through it.
Need help translating your vision into blueprints—or making sure what’s drawn makes sense? Let’s talk.
