Introduction
These drawings are the lifeline of the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Think of construction drawings as the ‘what’ and shop drawings as the ‘how.’
The design and construction of buildings is a complicated job that consistently requires multiple documentation sets at different life cycle stages.
Construction drawings give a bigger picture, such as “build a kitchen here” or “put a window there.”
But shop drawings? They’re like the detailed instruction guide that shows you exactly which screws to use and how to put that window together step by step.
Understanding the difference between shop drawings and construction drawings is important because these two drawings will turn the plan into reality- a slight mistake can cause huge delays and heavy losses.
As BIM in construction continues to revolutionize the industry, it greatly improves the way these drawings are created and utilized, allowing for better collaboration and fewer errors!
What are Construction Drawings?
Construction drawings definition highlights the structural use, appearance, features, fixtures, materials, estimated dimensions, equipment performance, and connections to other building components.
Construction drawings, also known as working drawings, IFC drawings, or architectural construction documents, are made to visualize the architectural elements in 2D before the actual construction begins.
This drawing’s main job is to showcase architectural components with utmost precision and accuracy for detail-oriented decision-making.
These drawings can easily offer the results of the ongoing work on the construction site and the final deliverables.
Also, construction drawings serve as bid drawings for contractors, estimating the project expenses, which consist of material consumption, labour costs, and construction costs—which is one of the major differences between construction drawings and shop drawings!
What are Shop Drawings?
Shop drawings definition consists of a drawing or set of drawings produced by the contractor, supplier, manufacturer, subcontractor, consultants, or fabricator.
Shop drawings are needed for prefabricated components.
The other name of shop drawings is fabrication drawings.
Shop drawing solutions give extensive instructions on manufacturing or mounting different parts, systems, or polygons at the time of construction.
Additionally, shop drawings are designed to match a situation on time so they can be adjusted perfectly as required. This focus on the details eliminates costly mistakes.
With innovations and technology, it is now possible to generate shop drawings with the help of architectural BIM modeling with precisely indicated standards.
These drawings contain all dimensions and details necessary for on-site construction. They are drawings issued for future construction.
These drawings are made first, and the construction as per these drawings follows.
Key Differences Between Construction Drawings and Shop Drawings
| Point of Difference | Construction Drawings | Shop Drawings |
| Definition | Contractors will review design documents & analyze Construction or working drawings offer a detailed representation of a structure’s design and provide a detailed analysis of the construction process, including particulars like dimension, material, surface, electrical layout, and more. | Shop drawings (fabrication drawings) are detailed plans that translate design intent. |
| Creators | Architects, engineers, or designers create the construction drawings. | Shop drawings are created by contractors, fabricators, or manufacturers who specialize in fabricating and installing specific components. |
| Purpose | The purpose behind creating these drawings is to get detailed and accurate specifications about all the architectural components executed with graphical representation for exact decision-making. | This set of drawings was created to give fabricators an idea of actual design intent, field conditions, and information to achieve accurate coordination, fabrication, assembly, and installation. |
| Timing | Construction drawings are created before the construction work begins. | Shop drawings are developed after the construction contract has been signed. |
| Usage | Construction drawings are used to understand the overall project and obtain building permits. | Shop drawings are used to manufacture or install specific components or systems. |
| Level of detail | Construction drawings provide an overview of the entire project, including dimensions, materials, and other specifications, and guide the construction process. | Shop drawings are highly detailed and specific, highlighting individual components. |
| Accuracy | As the construction drawings are developed before contractors are hired, they may contain some errors. | Shop drawings offer accurate dimensions, time stamps, and assembly from a professional engineer. |
| Inclusions | Construction drawings include interior and exterior elevations, interior and exterior 3D renderings, floor plans, site plans, design layouts, aesthetic elements such as colors, textures, and some materials, and connection design. | Shop drawings include information on fabrication, such as dimensions, special instructions, connection details, applicable fabrication standards, installation and erection information, comparisons to construction documents, and notes on changes from the construction documents. |
Similarities Between Construction Drawings & Shop Drawings
Let us understand the common ground between construction drawings and shop drawings.
1) The shared purpose of communication
Construction drawings and shop drawings are important tools when it comes to various stakeholders involved in the project.
They easily translate complex design ideas into easy-to-understand visual formats that everyone can understand.
2) Both provide a detailed visual representation
Understanding construction and shop drawings means getting an overview that each one provides an excellent representation of the project. Construction drawings will highlight the overall intent behind the design, while shop drawings get deeper into each component.
This level of detail is important for ensuring all parties agree on what needs to be built.
3) Both provide greater accuracy
Both drawings constantly require attention to detail. Whether it’s dimensions in a construction drawing or assembly details in a shop drawing, accuracy is non-negotiable to avoid costly errors.
4) Both are part of the same pattern of work
The primary role of construction drawing is to present the intent behind the design, whereas shop drawings are focused on exciting that same intent. Together, they both work through the different stages of development.
5) Both help in reducing errors.
Both construction and shop drawings significantly reduce errors by offering clear instructions and specifications. This minimizes costly mistakes and delays, making them a core aspect of successful project execution.
Remember,
If you’re looking for a detailed guide to shop drawings, here’s the key takeaway: construction drawings offer the overall framework, while shop drawings get inside every minor detail.
FAQ’s
What is the main difference between shop drawings and construction drawings?
The main difference between shop drawings and construction drawings is that the construction drawings provide a broad overview of a project, while shop drawings provide detailed instructions for specific components.
How do shop drawings differ from construction drawings?
The difference is that shop drawings provide specifications for individual components and their fabrication, while construction drawings provide a comprehensive project overview.
Who creates shop drawings?
Contractors, subcontractors, manufacturers, suppliers, and fabricators
Who creates construction drawings?
Architects and engineers.
Are shop drawings part of the construction documents?
Yes, shop drawings are part of construction documents.
When are shop drawings needed in a project?
Shop drawings are needed in a project after the construction contract has been signed.
When are construction drawings needed in a project?
Construction drawings are needed before the construction work begins.
What comes first in use, construction drawings or shop drawings?
Construction drawings come before shop drawings.
What’s the use of shop drawings and construction drawings?
Construction drawings are used to understand the overall project and obtain building permits.
Shop drawings are used to manufacture or install specific components or systems.
Conclusion
Shop and construction drawings play distinct yet similar roles in the construction process. Shop drawings provide detailed information on individual components. In contrast, construction drawings, developed by architects and engineers, offer a comprehensive overview of the entire project and guide on-site work.
A combination of both sets of drawings is used to set a balance between efficiency and detail in construction. A mindful investment of money into shop drawing services by Edifice Expert can fuel the completion of a construction project with the expected quality and accuracy.
