The Floor Plan

Definition and Purpose of the Floor plan (how to read blueprints)

The floor plan is the heart of a set of construction drawings. It is the one plan to which all trade workers refer. When designing a residence, the floor plan is usually started first. It may be completed near the end of the designing, since modifications are frequently required during the development of the other plans in the complete house plans set.

The floor plan is actually a section drawing. An imaginary cutting plane is passed through the structure about four feet above and parallel to it. The plane may be higher or lower as necessary to “cut” through the required details. In some instances, the plane is offset (changes levels) as in the case of a split-level house.

The purpose of the floor plan is to show the location and dimensions of exterior and interior walls, windows, doors, major appliances, cabinet, fireplace, and other fixed
fixtures of the house. The floor plan featured in this section identifies many common features found on a floor plan. Some times when the structure is not complex, the floor plan may include information, which would ordinarily be found on other drawings. For example, the electrical plan, heating and cooling plan or plumbing plan might be combined with the floor plan. It is important not to include too much information on a single drawing or the plan will become too cluttered and confusing.

Required Information

Information about these features should be included on the floor plan: exterior and interior walls; size and location of the windows and doors; built-in cabinets and appliances ; permanent fixtures; stairs and fireplaces; walks, patios and decks room names and symbols; location and size dimensions; and scale. Frequently, related structures such as a freestanding garage or swimming pool are also shown on the floor plan.

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Taken from: Architecture: Residential Drawing and Design
Author: Clois E. Kicklighter
Copyright: 1984, The Goodheart-Wilcox Company, Inc.




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