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ARCHITECTURAL
INTRODUCTION
An individual desiring advancement in a construction career must possess the ability to read all aspects of blueprints. Several trades are involved in the construction of a building and coordination between all installations is crucial. Plumbing contractors must relate installations to concrete footing depths, finished floor elevations, ceiling heights, structural heights, beam depths, light fixture locations, duct elevations, duct locations, mechanical equipment locations, mechanical equipment connections, site utility elevations, and other areas pertaining to a specific project. Construction projects consist of blueprints indicating the design intent of all involved trades. Actual installation design, however, is the responsibility of each contractor. Installations are completed based on the architectural design intent with proper coordination of all trades. Understanding a typical construction blueprint package allows an individual to become fluent in relating sections of reference in any situation. Each project has its unique design and many architects have varying styles or formats for illustrating a design. Blueprints for smaller projects and residential construction have less detail than large commercial projects and require additional commitment from a contractor to design and install a system based on the intent of the architect. A blueprint package consists of illustrated information pertaining to all trades involved in a construction project. Each project may require special documentation or demand that you create tracking logs and charts. Having complete sets of documents for a project is crucial to its success. The following is a basic list of items that are required for a typical project and considered project documents: Blueprint Package: Includes all illustrated information for trades involved in a particular project Specifications: May be in book form or listed on blueprints Approved Submittal Book: Will be stamped approved based on specifications by an architect or engineer Specialty Items: Owner furnished equipment (OFE) or special project requirements Addendum: Indicates any formal changes in the project design intent Change Order: Written documentation that a change has occurred in the design intent along with the cost RFI: Request for Information sheet submitted by contractor to clarify design intent Transmittal: Letter of transmittal sheet that accompanies all submissions throughout the project Schedule: Sequence of construction activities to complete a project Shop Drawing: Detailed blueprint or sketch of actual installation information As-Built Drawing: How the project was constructed, as opposed to the initial design O & M Manual: Operations and maintenance information of installed items provided by contractor usually includes vendor information A company may require additional documents for legal or safety reasons and it is the responsibility of all management personnel to comply with every aspect of a project. Complete understanding of the entire project is required to manage a project, and an installer must be provided with adequate information to adhere to a schedule.

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Architectural Figure 1 is a basic listing of a few trades included in a blueprint package. Each initial indicates specific work by a contractor and each architect will adopt an identification style to indicate a specific trade. The designation for plumbing may be PLG or PLMG instead of P Architectural Figure 1 lists the initials of . blueprints to spell SAMPLE and then the random letters C and F to make it easy to remember.

Type of Blueprint Structural Architectural Mechanical Plumbing Landscaping Electrical Civil Fire Protection

Initial S A M P L E C F

Basic Construction Relationship Dimensions and sizing of structural design. Steel, concrete, joists, footings, beams, shafts, caissons etc. Dimensional location of walls, fixtures, doors, rooms etc. A master view of floor plans and details. HVAC ducts, piping and equipment. Indicates locations, sizes and possibly specification of items. Plumbing piping, fixtures and equipment. Indicates locations, sizes and possibly specification of items. View of landscaping detail, trees, shrubs and irrigation. May be included on Civil drawings. Electrical fixtures, equipment and circuits. Indicates locations, circuits and possibly specification of items. View of all site work and exterior surroundings. Utilities, topographic and possible landscaping illustrations. Sprinkler head and equipment locations. Contractor must submit a shop drawing for approval based on the design intent.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 1. Partially full horizontal cylindrical tank constants.

A blueprint package and specification book identifies types of materials, equipment, and locations. Architects provide contractors with lists of specified items that are in book form or listed on a blueprint page.

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Each trade has separate sections of a blueprint package and specification book relating to their scope of work while some sections relate to the entire project. The construction industry is presently considering a revision on how it organizes the allocation of designated sections of a submittal. Plumbing items are presently specified in the 15000 section of a specification book and all contractors must review related sections (and especially the General Conditions section) that relate to all trades. The design intent of an entire project is essentially multiple contracts with each contractor having their own scope of work. A contractor estimates a project based on his or her particular installation requirements and then progresses into the submittal process. Most specifications, and especially ones that involve government work, list at least three product manufacturers as well as the option to submit unlisted items that are equal in quality. A plumbing contractor typically completes the following tasks when creating a submittal package: Contacts material suppliers for manufacturer data of specified or equal items Catalogs, in book form, all fixtures, drains, carriers, and equipment specified or equal to the specified items Indicates certain models, color, and sizes of items that plan to be installed Creates a cover page indicating relevant information for the project (i.e., contractor and project name) Inserts cover page for each item relating to the identification used by the architect (P1, WH1, EWC) Reviews the General Conditions section of the specification to know how many sets to submit Creates a letter of transmittal to accompany the submission

The submittal is forwarded to a general contractor or project manager to review and is then sent to the architect. It will be sent back to the contractor for completion if all required items are not included in the submittal book. The architect will stamp each set of submittals as approved or approved as noted and return to the contractor if the items are accepted with certain specific conditions or not at all. If all items are as specified or are equal in quality and performance, the architect will stamp each set as approved. Installation of a non-specified item or its piping system should never be started before receiving approval from the architect. Each contractors scope of work dictates specific installation criteria and any work that deviates from the project requirements is a risk for that contractor. A contractor is also responsible for all work related to approved specifications that is required to complete the design intent, even if the work is not indicated in the specifications. A contractor should follow these guidelines for the submission process: Check for accuracy and assure the submittal book is thorough Submit the correct amount of books to the appropriate party with a letter of transmittal Do not begin any work relating to items not specified as approved until you receive approval Maintain an office set and a field set of approved submittals Maintain a complete and updated set of changes and dimensions to include with the final as-built package

Changes in the project design are typically indicated in an addendum. Additions, deletions, or any revision to a system, location of walls, heights of ceilings, floor elevations, etc., are submitted to all contractors for review and possible contract price adjustments. Addendums should be organized in book form and blueprints shall be revised to indicate a change has occurred. A revised set of blueprints should be available on a job site and updated as required. All drawings that are considered old or not revised should be removed from a job site to eliminate installation errors. Contractors should maintain revised blueprints relating to an entire project, which allows for proper coordination of their systems with other trades. Specification books must also be maintained as per contract revisions and kept on a job site. An approved and revised set of submittals should be available for review by an installer. Heights and locations of piping connections based on an approved item are critical to an installer.

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The following is a basic list of information required prior to an installation: Approved and revised set of blueprints Approved submittal book or copy of approved item relating to an actual installation Any sketches or shop drawings that were part of a coordination process with other contractors Installation requirements based on project specifications Relevant code information based on state and local regulations Special requirements based on company or legal safety standards System testing record sheets or as-built requirements if this is a company standard

Architectural blueprints indicating the design intent of a commercial bathroom illustrate the locations of plumbing fixtures, floor drains, walls, partitions, and handicap grab bars. Locations of piping, ducts, electrical fixtures, door types, floor finish, wall finish ventilation, fire protection sprinkler heads, and all relevant equipment has to be coordinated using several blueprints or with other contractors. An architect typically provides general notes on a blueprint page that describe specific information relating to a particular project. One common note included on many blueprints is that the blueprints are for diagrammatic purpose and all location of items and code information is the responsibility of the contractor. For example, a plumbing contractor must consider the following items when coordinating a commercial bathroom: Particular approved fixtures being installed Obtaining installation data from approved submittal Fixture distances from each other, floors, walls, and partitions based on codes and fixture type Piping coordination with other trades in floors, walls, and ceilings The size of piping based on code, fixture minimum, and design intent Wall and floor finish (tile, drywall, etc.) The slope of the floor, if required for floor drain Ceiling height piping can transition from vertical to horizontal out of the wall Minimum and maximum depth of the trench below the floor if the bathroom is on a concrete floor Floor thickness and whether there are beams, joists, or other obstructions below the floor Available space below the floor to route piping How the bathroom connects to other portions of the system based on height of drainage below floor Layout of drains and vents to adhere to codes while minimizing labor to install all piping Layout of all piping to minimize required material Location of a floor drain trap primer if required by code or design All other relevant plumbing code requirements including slope of drain Space required in walls to install fixture carriers, if relevant Height and location of fixture wood support in walls, if fixture carriers are not used Location of handicap grab bars so piping installation does not conflict with wood support in walls Location of metal partitions so piping does not conflict with wood support in walls Recognition of any atypical or unique criteria relating to that particular installation

Various drawings may be included in a blueprint package relating to an actual project. Some blueprints include sectional or isometric views of the design intent. Details of a plan view are typically segmented on separate blueprint pages and identified with symbols referring to a certain blueprint page and the detail view number assigned to each view.

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Views of the design intent can clarify heights and the locations of items. The three basic views are plan, section (side), and isometric. Each view clarifies the intent of a design and allows for coordination of installations. Plan View: Shows the view of a project from the topoften known as a birds-eye view. This view typically does not clarify vertical heights and only indicates horizontal dimensions. It also indicates dimensions in a horizontal manner, typically illustrated to a particular scale. Two common blueprint scales drawn using an English ruler are 1/8" equaling one linear foot and 1/4" equaling one linear foot. A metric ruler utilizes millimeter and centimeter increments of 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50 to one meter. A shop drawing illustrated with a plan view can indicate the invert elevation of piping above or below the finished floor elevation. Sectional View: Shows portions of a project from the side, either facing the external walls or viewing sections of the project. This view may include several views of the same area from various navigational points facing north, south, east, or west. It may be scaled similar to a plan view utilizing either the 1/8" or 1/4" equaling one linear foot scales or using millimeters and centimeters to each meter. Many detailed views utilize a larger scale than a plan view to clearly illustrate design intent. A plumber utilizes this detail option to coordinated piping that will pass under footings, in walls, above ceilings and the heights of countertops, fixtures, or handicap grab bars. Isometric View: This view shows a three-dimensional view illustrating items and piping hidden on a plan and section view. This variety is used for riser diagrams of piping and is not drawn to a scale. A portion of or an entire piping system can be illustrated this way and this view is typically not used for dimensional purpose. Many shop drawings or fabrication details do include dimensions of piping and its relation to columns, walls, or other relevant information. This is very common in the plumbing trade and can be difficult to read by an individual not accustomed to commercial plumbing. A section view is widely used for clarification of walls, footings, and above ceiling coordination of all systems. Wall types relating to a certain material, fire rating, or width, are identified alphabetically or numerically on large construction projects. Knowing a correct wall type is crucial for correct wall penetrations and pipe or conduit installation in a wall center. Fire-rated walls require all penetrations to be sealed with a fire retardant sealant and possibly sleeved with a metallic pipe. Thorough review of architectural blueprints allows individuals to become familiar with wall types. Large projects may have numerous wall types that may not be identified on plumbing blueprints. A booklet or sheet of wall types should be created and distributed to an installer for productive and correct installations. Considerations in creating a booklet of wall types are (all information can be sketched or copied directly from blueprint): Plan view symbols identifying the wall type List of wall types identified in an alphabetical or numerical manner (A, B, C, 1, 2, 3, etc.) Width of the walls and their relation to wall finishes or exterior finishes Fire-rated criteria of specific wall types Any other information that expedites an installation or minimizes errors

Piping installations in a wall require determination of center of wall, studs, or concrete masonry units (CMUs). In most instances, plumbing work begins before wall installations occur. The center of a wall is not always half the total width of a wall. Each wall type must be identified and actual center of a stud or CMU must be located. Architectural Figures 2, 3, and 4 illustrate a few various wall types. Identification is given alphabetically and shown in a section view. Any relation to a wall type is for lesson purposes only and the information included in this book should not be used on a job site. Each project will utilize various formats based on the personal style of the architect. Detailed information is determined by a particular project and a wall-type booklet that is created for that job site should be used as an installation tool.

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CENTER OF WALL

5/8" (1.59CM) DRYWALL

METAL STUD

P I P E

5/8" (1.59CM) DRYWALL

PIPE IN CENTER OF WALL

3-5/8" (9.21CM)

4-7/8" (12.38CM)
ARCHITECTURAL Figure 2. Standard wall type A.

Type A for this example refers to a standard wall type The center of a metal stud is the center of the wall width Include relevant information regarding specific wall finish, if relevant Pipe is illustrated for demonstration purposes and will not be included in a wall type booklet on a job site Identification is given alphabetically and shown in a section view. Detailed information is determined by a particular project and a booklet should be used as an installation tool. Any relation to a wall type is for lesson purpose and should not be used on a jobsite. Each project will utilize various formats based on the style of the architect. Architectural Figure 4 is a common example for exterior walls, elevator shafts, and mechanical rooms. When one side has the concrete masonry unit (CMU) exposed and the opposite side requires a finished surface, a metal channel is anchored to the CMU to provide a proper support structure for the drywall or other wallboard.

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CENTER OF WALL

TWO LAYERS OF 5/8" (1.59CM) DRYWALL

METAL STUD

P I P E

5/8" (1.59CM) DRYWALL

PIPE IS NOT CENTER OF WALL WIDTH

3-5/8" (9.21CM) 5-1/2" (13.97CM)

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 3. Wall type B with two layers of drywall.

Type B for this example refers to a variation from Type A The center of a metal stud is not the center of the wall width Two layers of drywall are applied to one side of the wall, which is common with fire-rated walls Include relevant information regarding specific wall finish, if relevant Pipe is illustrated for demonstration purposes and will not be included in a wall-type booklet on a job site A section view is used to illustrate certain wall sections or for clarification of heights of doors, cabinets, fixtures, and ceilings. Floor thickness, footing depths, and clarification of footing types are also illustrated using section views. Many different section views of the same area may be required to demonstrate design intent. Industry standard symbols indicate section view detail numbers and blueprint pages to review the detail of a certain construction area. Architectural Figure 5 illustrates a detail view symbol used to indicate that a detail sketch exists to clarify the design intent of an area of the plan-view blueprint.

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CENTER OF WALL

5/8" (1.59CM) DRYWALL

1-1/2" METAL CHANNEL

P I P E

EXPOSED CMU

PIPE IS NOT CENTER OF WALL WIDTH

7-1/2" (19.1CM) 9-5/8" (24.45CM)

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 4. Wall type C with two different finishes.

Type C for this example is one that leads to many layout errors The center of a CMU is not the center of the wall width A layer of drywall is applied to a metal channel The metal channel is anchored to the CMU One side of the CMU is expose Include relevant information regarding specific wall finish Pipe is illustrated for demonstration purposes and will not be included in a wall type booklet on a job site A large area sectional view symbol similar to Architectural Figure 7, with the addition of a tail indicating scope of view, is illustrated in Architectural Figure 6. Once the correct blueprint page of the entire scope of a large area sectional view is reviewed, several individual detail sectional views may be provided using a detail symbol as illustrated in Architectural Figure 5. The point of the arrowhead is the direction of the readers eye looking at the drawing and the work. When reviewing correct blueprint page, a detail identification symbol directs you to the correct detail. It is located on the same level as the detail title along with other relevant information pertaining to the detail. An architectural plan view illustration does not indicate vertical dimensions, but a shop drawing plan view may add that as an installation feature. Section views are utilized for detail illustrations of design intent.

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10 A2

DETAIL NUMBER

BLUEPRINT PAGE

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 5. Detail view symbol.

DETAIL NUMBER

10 A2

BLUEPRINT PAGE TAIL

SCOPE OF VIEW
ARCHITECTURAL Figure 6. Large area sectional view symbol.

10 A2

DETAIL NUMBER

BLUEPRINT PAGE

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 7. Detail identification symbol.

Section views are indicated with symbols referring to a designated view number and a blueprint page for locating additional information. Architectural Figure 8 is a plan view and Architectural Figure 9 and Architectural Figure 10 are two detail views. Architectural Figure 9 is an illustration of a section view clarifying footing depth, ceiling height, wall size, cabinet dimensions, and finished floor elevations from Architectural Figure 8. Several views of the same area may be required to indicate design intent. Architectural Figure 10 is a side view of the cabinets and associated features from Architectural Figure 9. Casework drawings are a detailed set of blueprints for all cabinetry and are often provided on many construction projects.

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WALL TYPE C UPPER CABINETS

SINK 10 A2

DW

TRASH

9'-0" (2.74M) ROOM 201

11 A2

Wall Type A

DOOR TYPE 16

2'-0" (61CM)

3'-6" (1.07M)

3'-0" (91.4CM)

8'-6" (2.59M)
ARCHITECTURAL Figure 8. Plan view example.

Two detail symbols indicating the location of large sectional views are provided Wall types are indicated on a typical plan view Room and door numbers are indicated on a plan view Dimensional relation to columns or other walls is indicated on a plan view The scale relating to a fraction of an inch, mm, or cm representing a foot or meter is used on a plan view

REFLECTED CEILING PLAN

A reflected ceiling plan is a blueprint used for coordination of all trades. A mirror image of a finished ceiling layout is illustrated to coordinate lighting, HVAC grilles, and fire protection sprinkler heads. Viewing a reflected ceiling plan allows all trades to coordinate occupied ceiling grid space based on design intent. An architect must meet code requirements and strategically locate HVAC grilles, lighting fixtures, and fire protection sprinkler heads. Dimensions are typically not indicated on a reflected ceiling plan. Lay-in type ceiling tiles come in standard sizes and contractors must know them. Typical sizes are 2' 0" 2' 0" (61 cm 61 cm) or 2' 0" 4' 0" (61 cm 1.22 m) and can be cut to fit an actual ceiling grid installation. Edges of a room that do not accommodate standard ceiling tile dimensions require a ceiling installer to customize the ceiling tile dimensions.

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CEILING

1'- 0" (30.5CM)

CABINET

2'- 0" (61CM)

1'- 2" (35.6CM) 2'- 6" (76.2CM) 2'- 0" (61CM) 8'-0" (2.44 m)

Sink WALL

3'- 0" (91.4CM) 9-5/8"

(24.5CM)

CABINET

6" CONCRETE SLAB (15.2CM)

FINISHED FLOOR 4" (10.2CM)

FOOTING

2'- 0" (61CM)

10 A2 NOT TO SCALE

3'- 0" (9.4CM)

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 9. Section view example.

The scale relating to a fraction of an inch (cm) representing a foot may be used in a detail view The circular symbol indicating detail is the correct one relating to the plan view drawing

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CEILING

1'-0" (30.5CM)

2'-0" (61CM)

2'-6" (76.2CM)

2'-0" (76.2CM) 2'-0" (61CM) 8'-0" (2.44M)

4-7/8" (12.4CM)

3'-0" (91.4CM)

2'-6" (76.2CM)

1'- 6" (45.7CM)

KS

DISHWASHER TRASH

3'-0"
(91.4CM)

11 A2 NOT TO SCALE

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 10. Side view example.

A casework drawing indicates the size of each cabinet and other detailed information A scale may be used for a detail and is located with the detail symbol identification

Routing of piping above a ceiling must be coordinated with all designated ceiling tile locations for all trades and certainly for the trades that must focus on the center of each ceiling tile. Actual items installed in a ceiling grid area must be reviewed for their vertical space requirements above a ceiling. Ducts connecting to a ceiling tile, and light fixtures that extend above ceilings, are two common coordination concerns. Fire protection sprinkler heads are regulated by strict codes pertaining to their minimum and maximum locations to walls, obstructions, and each other. Lighting must be strategically located and regulated by code for their placement to provide adequate illumination. HVAC return and supply air grilles are strategically located to maintain a constant comfort level.

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A plumber must do the following when reviewing a reflected ceiling plan: Focus on the number and dimension of ceiling tiles Locate tiles specifically designated for lights Locate tiles specifically designated for sprinkler heads Locate tiles specifically designated for HVAC grilles Coordinate the piping or equipment away from designated areas Coordinate the space above the ceiling tilesthe next step in coordinating piping or equipment Determine the immediate space above ceiling tiles for each trade per the designated ceiling grid

A plumber must also consider the following: Some room designs allow for minor relocation within an immediate area or within a single tile A sprinkler head may not have to be in center of a tile and is placed there for appearance Many buildings utilize a return air plenum system that does not utilize a duct Return air plenum ceiling space may allow a grille to be moved to an adjacent grid space All ceiling tiles requiring cutting are installed around the edges of a room Tiles that are not near a wall are typically full size and not cut to fit

Architectural Figure 11 is the basic illustration of a reflected ceiling plan and does not indicate the proper placement of systems shown based on codes. Codes vary with each region, state, or local area and a contractor must coordinate with other trades to avoid conflicts and code violations. An individual responsible for the design of a piping system uses a reflected ceiling plan to indicate the routes of a system. Further job-site coordination is normal when a conflict exists due to ceiling space, and minor adjustments may be possible.

CORRIDOR COORDINATION
Proper coordination of all systems located above ceilings requires full understanding of locations, physical sizes, and clearances required for the service or operation of installed items. Light fixtures may require additional space for safety purposes due to heat generated during their operation. Plumbing piping may require additional spacing for insulation, access to a drain cleanout, or access to a control valve. HVAC ducts may require additional space for insulation or transition between two different size ducts. Fire protection piping to sprinkler heads is usually 1" (2.54 cm) and can be routed around major obstacles, but the actual head location cannot vary too much. Drainage piping installed in a plumbing system requires slope for proper drainage. When a piping system is coordinated with other systems, the slope requirements must be considered at any given point. A systems total travel in feet/meters determines the space requirement so it can coordinate with the designs of other trades. Architectural Figure 12 is an example of a sectional view corridor coordination sketch that identifies possible conflict areas. Large projects require that numerous sketches and various views be created, especially when a corridor intersects with another corridor. Architectural Figure 13 is an example of a typical corridor coordination sketch, and the legend that accompanies it. This illustration only indicates horizontal dimensions, but vertical dimensions must also be coordinated. An alphabetical identification system is used, as opposed to abbreviating each item. This identification system requires a legend for others to review and allows a designer to describe each item and its unique coordination concerns.

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= LIGHT FIXTURE

= HVAC SUPPLY AIR GRILLE

= HVAC RETURN AIR GRILLE

= FIRE PROTECTION SPRINKLER HEAD

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 11. Reflected ceiling plan.

Space above the ceiling is the next coordination aspect after reviewing a reflected ceiling plan A piping designer should locate routes and equipment away from obvious designated ceiling tiles An above ceiling sectional view should be created to coordinate all conflict areas Piping serving floors above are usually areas where conflicts occur and should be identified early Space above corridor ceilings is limited in many institutional facilities Hospital corridors are used as arteries for major piping, electrical, and HVAC systems Coordination with all trades must be complete before installation of hangers and supports

Coordination concerns are discussed with other trades during the design phase and must be reviewed in a sectional view for all potential areas of conflict. This eliminates nonproductive situations that occur on a job site from the movement of hangers to the movement of whole piping systems. Engineers, architects, and other trades must realize the importance of slope being required on drainage and vent systems. Your complete review of elevation for required systems is one of the single most important factors in being profitable on any project. Another important factor in a design and coordination phase is the sequence of installation for all or portions of a system. It is common for pipe and duct insulation to be installed in areas that are impossible to reach after all systems are installed. Testing and insulating small portions of a complete system must be accomplished in many corridor areas on commercial projects.

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SECOND FLOOR STRUCTURE

FOUR CONDUITS CW DR DUCT SD HWS CONDUITS FP CABLE TRAY SPRINKLER HEAD FIRST FLOOR CEILING LIGHT FIXTURE HWR AW

CORRIDOR WALL

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 12. Ceiling coordination sketch.

A coordination sketch indicates outside diameters and sizes of all items Drainage piping requires that the slope be indicated Piping or duct crossing through corridor is coordinated with a sketch looking at it from another direction

THE PIPING LAYOUT

Layout for any piping system begins with thorough understanding of the intent of a completed system. Initial knowledge of several related issues is essential even when installing a water main or the drainage branch portion of a system. Pipe system layout considerations include: Elevation at point of origin and termination point Size of piping in the entire piping system Coordination with other trades for main portions and all branch piping Insulation requirements of piping and items that may conflict with piping Hanger spacing and type of support required throughout the system Access after the completion of construction for servicing, testing, adjusting and balancing of the systems

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SECOND FLOOR STRUCTURE ABOVE C F G

E CEILING D

8'-0" (2.44M) AFF

WEST CORRIDOR AT COLUMN A1 SECTIONAL VIEW FACING EAST

8'-0" (2.44M)

SLAB ON GRADE
ARCHITECTURAL Figure 13. Corridor coordination sketch.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 13. Legend. Item A B C D E F G Description 16 wide x 16 high (40.6cm x 40.6cm) HVAC duct with increase top flat transitions 4 (10.16cm) sanitary drain piping with 1/8/ft. (1.04cm/m) slope Electrical conduits, 4 total, 2 (5.08cm) diameter 48 x 24 (1.23 m x 61cm) light in center of corridor, needs 4 (10.16cm) top clearance 4 (10.16cm) chilled water piping 2 total with 1 (2.54cm) thick insulation 2 (5.08cm) domestic water pipe with 1/2 (1.27cm) insulation 2 (5.08cm) fire protection pipe, has sprinkler drop every 14 0 (4.23 m)

When approaching any layout situation, you should focus on the entire system. The breakdown of segments for the system being installed depends on job site conditions. If you are required to install a particular portion of a system that will connect with another portion in the future, you must attempt to predict possible considerations to properly connect the entire system. Installation is the next step after gathering all pertinent information. Organization of documents, material, subcontractors, and labor is essential, and it requires an individual who is responsible and motivated to lay out a piping system. A designer that has performed a thorough review of a project can increase productivity by minimizing coordination and errors.

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A piping system for water with numerous branches installed in a corridoralong with HVAC ducts, HVAC piping, electrical conduits, lighting, and fire protection pipingrequires coordination of elevations and locations. Coordination may be very difficult if the project is a hospital or if corridors are the major artery of the building. Initiate and assist in the proper coordination of system arrangements at an early stage in the project. Establish your requirements and forward them to other trade and project coordinators to achieve competent coordination. This exposes areas associated with plumbing-related items and initiates the layout process. Other responsible contractors will follow your lead and not want to be burdened with field coordination when installation should be a priority. A basic understanding of general construction relating to other trades allows a plumbing contractor to become effective in the layout of a system. Typical installations occur on any type of project and they should all be known well by the contractor. Wall studs, electrical outlet boxes, fire protection sprinklers, windows, doors, and HVAC diffusers are examples of typical installations and should be a focal point as your progress continues in construction. The following considerations may be required for a proper coordination process on a job site. Initiate the coordination process and other trades will follow your lead Research entire project and piping routes Lay out piping routes based on design intent and a desire to save labor and material Focus on conflict areas and lay out systems around these areas Review above-ground requirements while designing underground piping Extra underground piping or creative routing can avoid above-ground conflicts

Layout of horizontal piping systems, regardless of location, is based on physical dimensions provided on a blueprint or by coordination. The intent of a design must be reviewed from a starting point through the elevation to the termination point. Horizontal location and all offsets must relate to a certain structural reference. This may be a wall or a column within a building or a room. The use of strings as a reference point to obtain required dimensions to install piping in walls or other desired locations is common and strings must be constantly checked for tightness or movement by other trades. Based on a specific installation occurrence, a string can be pulled from column to column or a transfer string can be pulled closer to the work area to increase productivity. Although laser levels are common for above-ground installations, strings remain more common when installing piping in a trench. Architectural Figure 14 is a side view illustration of an excavated underground pipe trench, with soil placed away from a column and the transferred string. A designer can include the specific location of soil placement on sketches to increase productivity and minimize moving soil by hand.

PLUMB BOB OR LEVEL

TRANSFERED STRING LINE

COLUMN

EXCAVATED SOIL

PIPE

CENTER OF COLUMN STRING LINE

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 14. Underground piping layout side view.

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Architectural Figure 15 is an example of using string that relates to a dimension from the center of the column to install piping. A string must be checked often for accuracy and excavated soil is placed on the opposite side of the trench. An equipment operator must be aware of the desired soil locations to eliminate further movement of excavated soil.
BRANCH PIPE TRENCH
COLUMN

STRING

STRING

NO SOIL HERE DO NOT PLACE SOIL IN THIS AREA

MAIN PIPE TRENCH

NO PLACE SOIL HERE SOIL = MEASUREMENT POINT

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 15. Underground piping layout plan view.

PLACE SOIL HERE

The layout of piping systems below a concrete floor requires sawcutting and it is easy to establish the piping route and location of the soil. Existing walls or columns are present and the trench outline can be marked on the concrete floor. One area that may be unknown is the initial tie-in point, or elevation, of any existing pipe. Locating a cleanout and measuring the depth below the finished floor establishes the elevation of a drain. The minimum slope of existing and new piping is an initial focal point for any designer. The tie-in point of an area to sawcut around is greater than the width of pipe trench, creating proper workspace and allowing for error in expected locations if the actual location of the existing drain is not certain. The width of sawcut of a pipe trench is based on the size of the pipe to be installed and is no smaller than the width of a shovel. A wide sawcut may require that more soil be removed than originally required, and placed in a work area. Removed soil must also be placed back in trench and compacted, which increases construction costs. Architectural Figure 16 illustrates various considerations for laying out a sawcut in a floor that will be used to install new piping that connects to an existing piping system.

THE CORE PLAN

A core plan is used to install sleeves on decking material prior to concrete floor placement, or to core holes through an existing floor. Location of pipes penetrating a floor is established by reviewing the design intent of a project and then adhering to requirements of a specific fixture, a portion of a piping system, or other relevant criteria. A plan view approach is used for floors and roofs, but a side view is used for penetrations through walls. It is the responsibility of a designer to review all piping systems based on specifications and codes to ensure the proper sizing of a core or sleeve. All core or sleeve sizes are based on the pipe passing through a core or sleeve, with consideration for insulation, fire caulking, and joint connections such as a flange.

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SAWCUT A GREATER AREA TO WORK TO ALLOW FOR QUESTIONABLE EXISTING PIPING LOCATION

EXISTING FLOOR CLEANOUT

TIE-IN POINT

NO SOIL HERE

NO SOIL HERE

NO SOIL HERE

NO SOIL HERE

EXISTING WALL = MEASUREMENT AREAS = SAWCUT AREAS

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 16. Piping layout below concrete floor.

= EXISTING PIPING = NEW PIPING

A core plan is considered a shop drawing and is created by the contracting firm and not the architect or engineer. A shop drawing expedites installation activities and must be created by an experienced individual who recognizes the negative effects of an inadequate investigative approach. Architectural Figure 17 is an example of the core plan of a floor or roof, and sizes are core-drilled holes or sleeve sizes. The piping aspect of a project is illustrated on separate blueprints and based on all sleeves or holes being installed according to a core plan. Dimensions are not illustrated and must be provided from points of reference in all directions. Metric equivalents: 6" 15.24 cm, 4" 10.2 cm, 3" 7.62 cm. Architectural Figure 18 is an example of a core plan for a wall. All dimensions are not provided and the size indicated is for a core-drilled hole or sleeve. Vertical dimensions are from floor or ceiling and are provided by a designer. Pipe sizes are used based on a nominal size used in the plumbing industry, as opposed to their actual dimension.

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TO CENTER OF COLUMN OR WALL 6" 3" 3" 3"

4"

4"

4"

TO CENTER OF COLUMN OR WALL

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 17. Plan view core plan.

3 TO CENTER OF COLUMN OR WALL

TO FINISHED FLOOR
ARCHITECTURAL Figure 18. Side view core plan.

ARCHITECTURAL FLOOR PLAN

Architectural Figure 19 illustrates a typical architectural floor plan. This sheet contains information about the various features of the building such as walls, windows, doors, floors, overhangs, types of walls, plumbing fixture locations, and so on. The HVAC design technician must be familiar with all of these items in order to design a suitable system. The installing technician must know how the building is put together and where the various items are to be located for maximum efficiency. On Architectural Figure 19, sectional drawings show where sections have been cut through the walls. The sections are indicated by circles with arrows pointing in the direction that the section is cut. For example, there are three sections through the right-hand wall and several sections through the front wall. These are shown on Architectural Figures 22 and 23 and will be discussed later in this chapter.

WALL SECTIONS
On Architectural Figure 20, wall sections are cut to allow elevations to be shown on Architectural Figures 22 and 23. On the elevations sheets, the HVAC technician can measure the square footage of wall spaces for windows, doors, overhangs, and other features of the building that affect the heating and air-conditioning load. On the front and rear elevations of this set of plans, a note under the title indicates that the front and rear elevations are the same except reversed. This is true of many small buildings such as small bank buildings. The front and rear are the same, but the two side elevations are different, as can be seen by examining the plans.

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ROOF FRAMING PLAN

Architectural Figure 21 shows the roof framing plan. This is the structural plan. The sizes of steel members are given, along with the location of steel joists. This information is necessary for the person designing the system, who needs to know whether to hang the ductwork under the steel joists or in between them. The joists are the steel structural members that support the roof. In some cases, air-conditioning units are located on the roof, and steel must be sized large enough to carry the extra weight of the air-conditioning units. The sections shown through the building are located on Architectural Figure 23.

TRANSVERSE AND LONGITUDINAL SECTIONS

The transverse sections and longitudinal sections give a cross section of the building as it will be constructed. These sections show what the steel looks like and what spaces are available for ductwork and piping. The transverse and longitudinal sections also give ceiling heights, construction and location of beams, and location of the roof floor. They show exactly what the building looks like as it is cut along the cutting plane. These transverse and longitudinal sections are a very important part of the architectural plan.

WALL SECTIONS AND DETAILS

Architectural Figure 24 is titled Wall Sections and Details. These sections, which have been referred to on other sheets, show how the various components are put together to form the building. Architectural Figure 24 gives elevations and dimensions on a larger scale so that the builder knows exactly how the building is to go together. The HVAC technician, whether designing the system or installing it, uses these parts of the plan to decide where to put ductwork and how to install it properly.

ENLARGED FLOOR PLANS AND INTERIOR ELEVATIONS

An enlarged floor plan and elevation of the tellers area are shown on Architectural Figure 25. This sheet shows the design of the tellers stations and includes details and dimensions for the cabinetmakers. This drawing helps the HVAC contractor design the heating/cooling system that will best serve the tellers.

SCHEDULES, SECTIONS, AND ELEVATIONS

The Room Finish Schedule, the Door Schedule, and the Color Product Schedule are shown on Architectural Figure 56. The partial plan for the public lobby glass wall and doors is shown along with the elevation of the wall. Other details for other parts of the lobby wall are also shown.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 19. Typical floor plansmall bank building.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 20. Elevations.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 21. Typical roof framing plansmall bank building.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 22. Typical reflected ceiling plan and associated drawings.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 23. Sections.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 24. Sections.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 25. Interior views.

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Framing Systems
PLATFORM FRAMING
Platform framing, also called western framing, is the type of framing used in most houses built in the last 30 years, Architectural Figure 26. It is called platform framing because as the rough floor is built at each level, it forms a platform on which to work while erecting the next level, Architectural Figure 27. A characteristic of platform framing is that all wall studs, the main framing members in walls, extend only the height of one story. Interior walls, called partitions,

TOP CHORD RAFTERS BOTTOM CHORD CEILING JOISTS

PLATES

SECOND-FLOOR JOISTS PLATE SUBFLOOR HEADER JOIST PLATES STUDS

HEADER JOIST SILL FIRST-FLOOR JOISTS

SHEATHING SUBFLOOR

FOUNDATION

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 26. Platform, or western, framing.

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ARCHITECURAL Figure 27. Platform, or western, framing provides a convenient work surface during construction.

are the same as exterior walls. The bottoms of the studs are held in position by a bottom (or sole) plate. The tops of the studs are held in position by a top plate. Usually, a double top plate is overlapped at the corners to tie intersecting walls and partitions together, Architectural Figure 28. In some construction, the second top plate is not used. Instead, metal framing clips are used to tie intersecting walls together. Upper floors rest on the top plate of the walls beneath. The framing members of the upper floors or roof are positioned over the studs of the wall that supports them. Platform construction can be recognized on wall sections, Architectural Figure 29. Notice that the studs extend only from one floor to the next.

BALLOON FRAMING
In balloon framing, the exterior wall studs are continuous from the foundation to the top of the wall, Architectural Figure 30. Floor framing at intermediate levels is supported by let-in ribbon boards. This is a board that fits into a notch in each joist and forms ARCHITECTURAL Figure 28. The double top plate a support for the joists. Although it is not as widely overlaps at the corners. used as it once was, some balloon-framing techniques are still used for special framing situations. In both platform-frame and balloon-frame construction, the structural frame of the walls is covered with sheathing. Sheathing encloses the structure and, if a structural grade is used, prevents wracking of the

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 29. This can be recognized as platform construction because the studs extend only from one floor to the next.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 30. Balloon framing.

wall. Wracking is the tendency of all of the studs to move, as in a parallelogram, allowing the wall to collapse to the side, Architectural Figure 31. There are two ways to prevent wracking. Plywood or other structural sheathing at the corners of the building prevents this movement. Also, diagonal braces can be attached to the wall framing at the corners to prevent wracking, Architectural Figure 32. Seismic codes (building codes for earthquake protection) often call for interior shear walls. These are framed walls covered with structural sheathing, Architectural Figure 33. Interior shear walls make the building stronger.

POST-AND-BEAM FRAMING
Platform framing and balloon framing are characterized by closely spaced, lightweight framing members,

Architectural Figure 34. Post-and-beam framing uses heavier framing members spaced further apart, Architectural Figure 35. These heavy timbers are joined or fastened with special hardware, Architectural Figure 36. Because post-and-beam framing uses fewer pieces of material, it can be erected more quickly. Also, although the framing members are large (ranging from 3 inches by 6 inches to 5 inches by 8 inches), their wider spacing results in a savings of material. How-ever, to span this wider spacing, floor and roof decking must be heavier. Post-and-beam framing is sometimes left exposed to create special architectural effects, Architectural Figure 37. Beams carry a load without continuous support from below. Sometimes these beams are supported only in the beam pockets on the steel posts, Architectural Figure 38. In pure post-and-beam construction, the exterior walls have widely spaced posts and the space between is filled in with nonload-bearing curtain walls.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 31. Wracking.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 32. Let-in bracing prevents wracking.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 33. Interior shear walls may be used in earthquake zones.

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1 /2

"

16 "

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 34. Conventional framing. 16'' O.C.

16 "

16

"

CEILING JOISTS ARE OFTEN OMITTED FOR SLOPING CEILING

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 35. Post-and-beam framing. 4' O.C.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 36. Common timber fastenings.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 37. The exposed timber framing in this house is an important part of its design. Courtesy of Riverbend Timber Framing, Inc. Photo by Roger Wade.

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These curtain walls are merely panels that fill in the space between the structural elementsthe posts and beams. In areas where hurricanes and high tides are a threat, some houses are built as pole structures. Pole buildings

are a variation of post-and-beam construction. Poles, which are treated to be insect and rot resistant, are set several feet in the ground and 8 to 12 feet apart. A band joist, or header, is then bolted to these poles, Architectural Figure 39. The floors, walls, and roof are framed within the pole structure, Architectural Figure 40. Pole buildings are strong; they resist severe winds. Pole construction allows buildings to be kept above damaging flood waters.

Metal Framing
Light-guage metal framing is used extensively in commercial construction where the strength of structural steel or reinforced concrete is not required. Metal framing is also very popular in home building where termites and water damage are known to be problems. Light-guage steel framing uses studs and joists, the same as wood framing. Unlike wood framing, steel framing uses tracks and runners in place of bottom plates and top plates, Architectural Figure 41. The lighter, less expensive grades of metal framing are not as strong as wood, so they are used primarily for interior partitions or in conjunction with other structural materials. Metal framing can be pre-assembled just as you would pre-assemble wood framing. The runner is fastened to the floor with powder actuated fasteners.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 38. Typical beam pocket assembly.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 39. Basic elements of a pole building. Courtesy of American Wood Preservers Institute.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 40. Framing in a pole building. Courtesy of American Wood Preservers Institute.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 41. Metal framing. Courtesy of Dietrich Metal Framing.

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and special mounting devices (box hangers, conduit brackets, etc.). Where electrical nonmetallic-sheathed cable is installed through metal framing, a bushing or grommet must be installed prior to installing the cable (Architectural Figure 42).

ENERGY-SAVING TECHNIQUES
When wall framing is done with 2 4s spaced 16 inches on centers, up to 25 percent of the wall is solid wood. Wood conducts heat out of the building. Only the space between the solid wood framing can be filled with insulation. By using 2 6 studs spaced 24 inches on centers, the area of solid wood is reduced to less than 20 percent of the wall. The amount of framing material is the same. Not only does this reduce the amount of wood exposed to the surface of the wall, but it also allows for 2 inches more insulation. The area of exposed wood is further reduced by special corner construction. In conventional framing, three pieces are used to frame the corner of a wall, Architectural Figure 43. To reduce heat loss through the wall only two pieces are used, Architectural Figure 44.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 42. Nonmetallic-sheathed cable installed through metal framing.

The wallboard material is fastened to the metal studs using an electric screw gun with sheet metal screws. Subflooring material is fastened to the metal floor joists similarly with power-driven screws. The construction drawings and specifications will indicate the type of metal framing to be used. The gauge must be taken into consideration before using certain tools (stud punches, power actuated tools, etc.)

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 43. Conventional corner posts for 2

4 framing.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 44. Corner construction for Arkansas Energy Saving System.

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The third piece, which normally provides a nailing surface for the interior drywall, is replaced by metal clips. When installing nonmetallic-sheathed cable through wood wall studs and floor joists, the cable

must be installed 11/4 inches from the nearest edge. Where this 11/4 inches cannot be met, a 1/16-inch thick metal plate must be installed to protect the cable from nails and screws, Architectural Figure 45.

11 /4"

Less t

han 1

1 /4"

Metal plate 1/16" thick

2x4 ARCHITECTURAL Figure 45. Nonmetallic-sheathed cable installed in wood framing.

Floor Framing
SILL CONSTRUCTION
Where the framing rests on concrete or masonry foundation walls, the piece in contact with the foundation is called the sill plate, Architectural Figure 46. The sill plate is the piece through which the anchor bolts pass to secure the floor in place. To prevent the sill plate from coming in direct contact with the foundation, and to seal any small gaps, a sill sealer is often included. This is a compressible, fibrous material that acts like a gasket in the sill construction. The entire construction of the floor frame at the top of the foundation is called sill construction or the box sill. The box sill is made up of the sill sealer, sill plate, joist, and joist header, Architectural Figure 47. The sizes of materials are given on a wall section or sill detail. For areas where termites are present, a termite shield is included in the sill construction, Architectural Figure 48. A termite shield is a continuous metal shield that prevents termites from getting to the wood superstructure.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 46. Sill plate.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 47. Box sill.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 48. Termite shield.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 49. Several styles of joists.

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FLOOR JOISTS
Floor joists are the parallel framing members that make up most of the floor framing. Until recently, joists in residential construction were 2-inch framing lumber. However, recent advances in the use of materials have produced several types of engineered joists,

Architectural Figure 49. Although the materials in each type are different, their use is essentially the same. Metal floor joists are often used in commercial and industrial construction. Where nonmetallic-sheathed cable is installed through metal studs or floor joists, a bushing or grommet must be installed prior to installing the cable. (see Architectural Figure 32).

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 50. Joist callouts for the first floor are shown on the foundation plan.

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Notes on the floor plans indicate the size, direction, and spacing of the joists in the floor above, Architectural Figure 50. For example, notes on the foundation plan give the information for the first floor framing. When the arrangement of framing members is complicated, a framing plan may be included, Architectural Figure 51. On most framing plans, each member is represented by a single line. In the simplest building, all joists run in the same direction and are supported between the foundation walls by a single girder. However, irregularities in

building shapes require that joists run in different directions, Architectural Figure 52. As the building design becomes more complex, more variations in floor framing are necessary. In a building which has floors at varying levels, the joists are supported by a combination of girders, beams, and load-bearing walls. Floor framing variations are also needed depending on the exterior finish, Architectural Figure 53. In addition, protruding bays or porches require cantilevered framing, Architectural Figure 54.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 51. A simple floor framing plan.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 52. Floor framing plan for an irregular-shaped house.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 53. The joist headers are positioned according to the exterior finish to be used. Courtesy of W. D. Farmer.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 54. Typical uses of cantilevered framing.

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FRAMING AT OPENINGS
Where stairs and chimneys pass through the floor frame, some of the joists must be cut out to form an opening. The ends of these joists are supported by headers made of two or more members. The full joists at the sides of the opening have to carry the extra load of the shortened joists and headers, so they are also doubled or tripled, Architectural Figure 55. The number of joists and headers required around openings of various sizes is spelled out in building codes and shown on framing plans.

ARCHITECTURAL Figure 55. Framing around an opening in the floor.

SUMMARY
This chapter exposed the importance of contract documents, and coordination between all trades. Blueprint reading and drafting is the most important tool any tradesperson can have. An individual can have all the correct hand or power tools and still install a system or item incorrectly if adequate information is not provided. Once all information is organized, it is crucial that an installer can interpret design intent. Proper layout and coordination of design intent is the responsibility of a contractor and productivity is the focal point for an installer. Understanding how all documents work together or are related allows an individual to acquire necessary information in a timely manner. Tracking revisions is crucial to ensure all installations are based on current conditions. A layout or coordination process based on old or deleted blueprints can be very costly as the resulting mistakes can hamper the completion of a project. An installer that cannot read blueprints can unintentionally install piping or items incorrectly and the error may not be exposed until another phase of a project is complete, causing delays and additional costs. An individual responsible for coordinating or layout of a project must be focused at all times. Productivity does not necessary mean being in a hurry. It means installing a quality system in an efficient manner. One key to completing a system in a productive manner is recognizing that blueprint reading skills play a large part in installing a system correctly the first time. The location plan gives details as to the intersection where the building is to be located. The site plan shows how the building is to be placed on the site, along with drives, parking areas, planters, and other features. The bench mark is an elevation point to which all elevations are referenced. The foundation plan shows dimensions of the building with sections that show how the foundation is to be built. The architectural floor plan shows various features of the building and includes sectional drawings. Wall sections give dimensions of windows, doors, and other features of the building. The roof framing plan gives information on the structural requirements of the building. Transverse and longitudinal sections give cross sections of the building at various locations. Schedules give specific information on doors, colors, and other details of the building.

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ARCHITECTURAL Figure 56. Finish and door schedules, elevations, and details for a typical small bank building.

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