The Basics About Construction Blueprints

If you’re a contractor, you need to know how to read a blueprint. If you don’t, you likely won’t do your work properly or be good at your job. Before you start applying for construction jobs, make sure you have been taught and learned how to read a blueprint.

A blueprint is a two-dimensional drawing that contains all the details for a project. These details are so you can request permits, determine a schedule and do the construction. They also detail the project’s scope, specifications, building codes, and measurements.

  • Blueprints can vary in size. They can differ project to project depending on the complexity of the project. Right now, digital blueprints are gaining popularity. They are great because anyone can easily see the latest plan changes in real time.
  • When you first get a blueprint, scan the entire plan. Read all notes and specifications that are included. You will have to know how to read plan views, which are the basic views that people will see as they look down at the horizontal plane.
  • Each plan has a different scale and it’s important you are using the correct scale.
  • Compare elevations and floor plans and make sure nothing gets missed.
  • Sections of blueprints is where you will see cross sections of the building (studs, insulation, sheathing, etc.). you will also find the dimensions of the cabinets, countertops and more.
  • Schedules are included in blueprints.
  • There are hundreds of abbreviations and symbols on blueprints. There is usually a key to abbreviations and symbols.

Blueprints are tricky to read, but in time they become easier to read and can be read quickly. In the blueprints, errors can be spotted before issues occur so time and money isn’t lost. Blueprints are key in the decision-making process of a project and they should reflect reality and be read carefully.

Reading a blueprint is a skill and you need to learn it in order to be a successful contractor.

Not only do you need to know how to read a blueprint to be a contractor, you must be licensed to work legally.

We can help get you licensed as a contractor in any state. We are a Florida contractor licensing company. We have helped thousands of contractors across the United States get their contractor license.

We will complete and submit a completed application to the Construction Licensing Board on your behalf after getting information from you by phone or email. We know what the Board is looking for to get your approved.

To get your contractor license, click our Florida contractor license page to learn more or call 239-777-1028 to get started with us.

 

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