Dimensions on foundation plan
Dimensions on foundation plan
(OP)
I work primarily with residential and smaller commercial projects, so this question may not apply to all. When I create a foundation plan drawing I have typically shown all the dimensions. Many times I am just copying from a plan designer's drawing (or taking their cad file and manipulating) so that it has the appropriate structural notes and references. Every so often a dimension gets mixed up (or revised without my knowledge) which leads to obvious field issues. I have heard of other folks just leaving dimensions off the foundation plan and basically refer to the architectural plans by others for all dimensions. Is this a common practice?






RE: Dimensions on foundation plan
Another reason is that certain copying processes change the size of the copied (paper) drawing. Then a direct scaling of the copy will give the wrong answer.
Also, if a field error is made that has to be corrected it will be very difficult for you to "prove" that your scaling of the drawings is "better" than someone else's.
Putting an note on all drawings that says something like:
"Drawings are not to be scaled" is often used on industrial projects.
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RE: Dimensions on foundation plan
If you are the person responsible for the design, Show dimensions ONCE and show them correctly.
good luck
RE: Dimensions on foundation plan
The benefit of having no dimensions on structural is that the building will always fit on the foundation.
However in residential, it is generally up to the contractor/owner to review the drawings and flag any dimensional errors PRIOR to constrution. It is also thier responsibilty to notify you of any changes. Our firm puts a disclaimer on the drawings to this extent on all residential.
It is unreasonable to think you will be perfect and error free every set of drawings. The more responsibility the contractor assumes, whether it will hold up in court or not, the closer they will check things over as an extra set of eyes. If the contractor thinks something even "might" affect his pocket book, they will check things very closely. This is residential I am referring to mostly.
To date, any errors we have come across the contractors have been very willing to work with us to come up with a solution. Hope that helps
RE: Dimensions on foundation plan
General notes should say that drawings shall not be scaled and when dimensional conflict exists, contact the architect for resolution prior to proceeding with work.
Though many decent architects inform the engineer when they revise major dimensions affecting structural work, some fail to do this. This disconnect is the root of most dimensional issues from the field.
For multi story buildings, at levels above the foundation, I tend to leave out all dimensions already shown on the foundation plan and only indicate ones that are unique to that level.