Blueprint Symbols

Blueprints

Blueprints are those rolls of blue paper that construction engineers and architects carry around and pore over at job sites, during technical meetings etc. They are actually white-on-blue reproductions of technical drawings of engineering or architecture designs made using a contact print process on light-sensitive paper, sometimes linen, Mylar or imitation vellum.

Reading blueprints need some degree of getting used to especially for non-engineers or architects. Hundreds of blueprint symbols are used and without any strict international standards, there may be some minor variations to some of them depending on geographical location.

A complete set of blueprints for an entire construction project includes but is not limited to the following types:

• Architectural – indicates the master view and details of floor plans

• Civil – shows topographic views of all exterior surroundings

• Landscaping – shows landscaping views and irrigation. This is sometimes included in the civil drawings.

• Structural – indicates dimensions and sizing of structural design with details for steel, joists, concrete, footings, shafts, beams etc.

• Mechanical – indicates locations, sizes and specs for HVAC ducts, piping and other equipment.

• Plumbing – indicates locations, sizes and specs for all plumbing fixtures, piping and equipment.

• Electrical – indicates locations, circuits and specs for all electrical equipment and fixtures.

Landscaping Orientation Symbols

HVAC Symbols

Structural Symbols

Plumbing, Piping and Valves Symbols

Electrical Symbols