In the building industry, construction drawings (for some reason) aren’t given the due share of credit they deserve, even though they are crucial for construction project to run smoothly.
Many challenges can arise while building. Most problems arise because there hasn't been enough documentation given to the builder. To stop issues during the build construction drawings should always be completed. By drawings, we’re not just referring to a rough sketch; we are referring to detailed drawings showing all sorts of aspects of the project. i.e. joinery plans, electrical layouts, staircase plans, air-conditioning layouts, detailed bathroom plans.
Construction drawings can really only be completed when there is a full list of specifications. These specifications include selected fixtures, fittings and finishes. i.e. selected tiles, selected tapware, selected lights etc.
Here are some of the reasons why detailed construction drawings are very important.
1. Easier for the builder to quote off
Once you have developed a detailed construction drawings it is easier for subcontractors and the builder to quote off. They have all the information need to produce accurate quotes. Without accurate drawings and specifications they builders/subcontractors are essentially guessing and are more likely to put in allowances in their quote.
2. Serves as a Good Starting Point
As discussed above, construction drawings are detailed drawings. They need to be precise, accurate, and complete. A detailed version of the construction drawing serves as a road map for the builder and subcontractors so they know where everything goes right from the beginning of the job.
2. Used for On-Site Efficiency
With construction drawings no time is wasted on site working out how things are supposed to work. i.e. working how high the wall lights are to be hung, working out how to vent the rangehood, working out how the ducting will work for the air-conditioning. Without proper planning or detailed drawings, builders/subcontractors can end up wasting valuable time on the construction site having to work things out. On the contrary, if you have a detailed drawing, the number of hours spent on-site is effectively reduced, saving valuable time and money.
4. Resource for Troubleshooting for all trades
If these are ever any queries on site, if everyone has a copy of the complete set of drawings, they are more likely to be able to deal with any problems that may arise. They can eradicate miscommunication and unnecessary confusion. I.e Eradicate the need to call the clients/architects/interior designer to ask questions. If everything is detailed on the plans there is less confusion.
5. There can be no discrepancies
Without construction drawings everything in the plans is up for interpretation. i.e. What the client thinks is the right tile set out, may be completely different to the way the tiler actually sets out the tiles. Or the client may have one idea of the height of the showerhead, the plumber a different idea. Without these detailed drawings builders/subcontractors must use their professional knowledge and opinion on where they think things should be placed, built or layed.
Detailed drawings have multiple advantages. These drawings help start the project with a more accurate costing, and help everyone execute the build smoothly and quickly, finishing in a timely fashion.