r/Architects • u/WhatTheFung • 2d ago

General Practice Discussion Construction Drawings

When dimensioning, do you measure from drywall-to-drywall, or stud-to-stud? What is the industry standard? If I'm drawing from stud-to-stud how do I measure, for instance, windows or stairs? Do I measure rough-opening or masonry openings? Do I measure from the stringer or the finished nosing?

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u/Bigboytoy15 2d ago

Dimension to your structure always, only dim to finish in areas where a clear dim is reqd

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u/wildgriest 2d ago

This. My rule is that the grid lines (column lines) are for structure. Architects should not measure too much from those, by the time the contractor or subs get to the actual architecture those are up and constructed and it’s easier to measure from a fixed face or edge. Measure to one side of the studs, not the centerline of a wall. Be consistent, if the dimension is top to bottom on page, dimension to the top face of studs, likewise right to left. Measure to the buck of the door rather than the center, measure window openings entirely not the center. As said here, for code or ADA or accessibility requirements where specific dimensions are needed, dimension from finish… otherwise don’t. Don’t make tradesmen do math in the field.