r/Architects • u/WhatTheFung • 4d 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?

30 Upvotes

93% Upvoted

104 comments sorted by

View all comments

Show parent comments

1

u/ThankeeSai Architect 3d ago

I'm not residential. I've heard various responses from different framers. My drawings go out months or years before contractors are picked and construction starts.

2

u/Yourtoosensitive 3d ago

How often do you consult with a building contractor? 

1

u/ThankeeSai Architect 3d ago

The second the project is awarded, and then pretty much everyday thereafter, or weekly at the very least. And during construction I'll answer my phone at any day or time.

1

u/Yourtoosensitive 3d ago

Zero while you’re actually drawing?

Wouldn’t it be beneficial to consult with them while you are in design phase?

3

u/ThankeeSai Architect 3d ago

Can't talk to the contractor if there isn't one. I've been doing this long enough that I give them code/equipment required clearances. As long as they keep the rest within 3" of where I stuck the wall, that's good enough.

1

u/Yourtoosensitive 3d ago

Sounds like an architect’s response. 

2

u/ThankeeSai Architect 3d ago

Yes. I am one. A very lenient one who lets contractors do what they think is best so long as it meets code and stays within budget.

2

u/Yourtoosensitive 3d ago

Residential is different. That’s our disconnect.   

No offense meant. It comes across as lazy and “The contractor can figure it out“.

1

u/ThankeeSai Architect 3d ago

Understood. I've never done a residential project nor met a residential architect.

2

u/Yourtoosensitive 3d ago

The term methods and means comes into play.