what does aff mean in architectural drawings? what does aff mean in architectural drawings?

What subject areas are you interested in? Is it the Finish floor level (FFL) or the Structural Finish Level (SFL) or the Structural Slab Level (SSL)? Then I give dimensions to things like grab bars as "AFF" - above finish floor. $(parent).find('.rating-count[rel=' + key + ']').attr('original-title', data.reaction_users[key]); } title: 'Quote Centered', var username = $(".comment_user_" + data.id + " .UserName").clone(); Sometimes they cant be pulled out (for a variety of reasons), or sometimes we just forget (as theyre so ingrained already in everything we do that you can often gloss over them), but our mission is to eliminate them from our discourse. They will be handed to client, contractor to read and bid and build. ), smoke detector (S.D. $("#temp_append").remove(); $("#arc_comment_" + data.id).removeClass("HiddenComment"); $('body').append("

"); Htr. $(container).find(".BottomReply").hide(); removePlugins: 'liststyle,tabletools,contextmenu', function arc_editor_feature_423_admin(el, extra_params) Canada uses both units. This is especially important when meeting ADA requirements and building codes. imageUploadError: function(json, xhr) pasteInlineTags: ['strong', 'br', 'b', 'em', 'i'], }, $(button).replaceWith(''); $("").insertAfter($(point)); arc_editor_423($('form.arc_ajax_comment .editor').attr('id')); scayt_autoStartup: false, $('.arc_reply_comment_box #comment_reply_form').submit(); Time to let it go. args: ['blockquote', 'class', 'pullquote-left', 'toggle'] Imagine that the ceiling below you is transparent (see-through). Now that youve mastered the architectural arts, you might want to give electrical abbreviations a try, especially when you talk with the electrician. /* { Menu. */ Remembering all of this shorthand can be tricky, especially when this is added to the challenge of reading all the symbols and deciphering the conventions that might be . $(image).replaceWith('

'); height: 300, Are the door panels going to have various heights due to different floor finish thicknesses while maintaining the industry standard gap requirement for doors? args: ['p', 'class', 'chat-answer', 'toggle'] $('#arc_new_comment').remove(); { action_referer = null; if (ColBHeight > ColCHeight) { }); The action you just performed triggered the security solution. else if(status == 'block') Click File > Open > Browse. ), laminated veneer lumber (L.V.L. Why are abbreviations used in construction? Not accounting for these additional layers could result in items installed at the incorrect height. else { { var parent_node = $(".arc_reply_comment_box").parents(".Line"); Construction Drawing Abbreviations. }; "chat-answer": { minHeight: 200, Our experience with satisfying our client's needs ranges in scale from vacation cabins to remodels to urban residences to podium-construction mixed use and commercial buildings. var full_modal_url = '/user_stats/post/' + $(this).attr('rel') + arc_pathname(document.location.pathname); $(container).append(''); This stands for typical and means that if you see this listed once, everything else like this has the same note or dimension applied to it. RO for me. Often, the L is drawn overlapping with the C. This will be found on dimensions and ensures that whatever is being referenced is aligned with the centerline of something. }, } if (extra_params === undefined) customConfig : '', title: 'Chat Answer', removePlugins: 'liststyle,tabletools,contextmenu', }); $(this).attr('full_modal_url', 1); }, This is often done on drawings where it isnt worth the time to revise them, but you still need to convey the information. args: ['p', 'class', 'chat-answer', 'toggle'] In the construction industry, it is usually 6 to 10 mm difference from the original level. } In the meantime, though, here is a quick little summary of some of the more common acronyms used by architects so you can start to feel a bit more informed when someone speaks to you in Archi-speak! /* "subheading": { Is it the FFL, SFL or SSL? 1. BIM cannot forget the minus sign and few sets are reproduced via photocopy, so degradation over multiple duplications is not really an issue. 2. We geolocate our Revit models & so FF is at whatever it actually is above sea level (aka Survey Point. $(parent).find('.rating-count[rel=' + key + ']').html(value).show(); Donna, do you do a lot of wood framed construction? }); data: {id: id, arc_token: window.arc_token}, Architectural Title Blocks: Standards and Conventions, What Does Poch Mean & How Does It Differ From a Hatch. $(image).replaceWith('

'); $('head').append( link ); language: 'en', }); } { title: 'Subheading', { var id = arc_pathname($(this).attr('href'), true); Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. { $(document).on('click', "#comment_moderation #submit_button", function() Our job should be to make that communication as clear and straightforward as possible, but unfortunately, things like acronyms help build a wall. Measurements and equations are a big part of this. On the other hand, for new constructon, I do both - CL of stud and show finish to finish wall dimension for areas where certain clearances are required. title: 'Quote Centered', This has been my practice and have seen some architects, GC, CM and PM do the same. Featured Instructor. the surface of the tile, not the underlay) in that room. args: ['blockquote', 'class', 'pullquote-left', 'toggle'] An architect can help you understand the potential of a house before you even make an offer. I had to get used to using the hard neasurement from the soft mesurement. There are a slew more; a quick web search (finds over 3,300 of them! $(this).tipsy({gravity: 's', html: true}); args: ['p', 'class', 'figcaption', 'toggle'] window.location.reload(); $(document).ready(function() { - Above Finished Floor; A.F.G. } The most common scenario where this acronym is important is when workers install elements during rough-in. $.ajax( While I get it why some uses the Opening CL. //arc_editor_423($(".arc_reply_comment_box .editor").attr('id')); update_comment_status(action_referer); elem.type = "text/javascript"; function arc_editor_feature_423(el, extra_params) }, { var remainingspace = windowheight - menuheight; Still, as much as theyre ingrained in this profession, I absolutely cant stand them. var data = {"id": $(point).attr('href'), "status": $(point).attr('rel')}; OneSignal.push(function() function arc_page_post_session() If all minimum clear heights are reference from SFL or SSL, how would you comply to the minimum requirements when there's about a 25mm difference between the SSL and the FFL? Above Finished Floor. type: 'POST', If you see a note saying 8'-0" AFF , it means that whatever is being referenced is 8 feet and zero inches above the surface of the finished floor (whatever you walk on, e.g. var user_html = $("#arc_comment_" + data.id + ">.Top>.user-title").clone(); } Using AFF eliminates any confusion for the contractor. modal_data = co['unblock']; args: ['p', 'class', 'chat-question', 'toggle'] formattingAdd: { } else { $("a.arc_reply_comment").show(); } { $("#comment_moderation #submit_button").val(modal_data.submit); { The additional layers of the finish floor may not seem like a lot but can add up, especially when a topping like Gyp-Crete is installed. var animation_clone = ''; } pasteInlineTags: ['strong', 'br', 'b', 'em', 'i'], }); Anyways, this is why I posted this item here to see what is the industry standards here in Canada or US. We do the exact same thing as you do, we just use 100'-0" as our base elevation callout. Partners in Business, Partners in Life: Architecture Couples Discuss the Ups, Downs, and In-betweens of Running a Practice Together, SCI-Arc Student Investigates How Artificial Intelligence Can Assist in 3D Modeling, Every Piece of Architecture is First a Work of Fiction; A Conversation with Ole Scheeren. All rights reserved. else if (data.status == 'block') } Architects mostly deals with the design. $("#arc_comment_" + data.id).addClass("FeaturedComment").removeClass("BlockedComment HiddenComment"); $('.tooltip-rating').livequery(function() this.destroy(); True, the surveyor who set the levels in the site, sets his point/ stakes based on the structural levels but this is not the case in design. buttons: ['bold', 'italic', 'lists', 'link', 'image'], $.ajax( What Are Floor Plans & What Do They Show? Remember the drawing's purpose is to clarify not to confuse ppl. I totally agree with you. $(".arc_comment_" + id).prev('.HiddenLine').remove(); imageUpload: '/redactor/upload', imageUpload: '/redactor/upload', When you start a design and putting that in working drawings, architects use FFL as the basis in designing a structure structure or the interior space. $('a.arc_flag_comment').click(function(e){ { what does aff mean in architectural drawings?html5 interactive animation best army base in germany is dr abraham wagner married is dr abraham wagner married if (($.client.os == 'Windows') && ($.client.browser == 'Chrome')) { T.O.STEEL/B.O.DECK etc to describe structure. } 2. } If your priority is making the contractor not have to think, use SSL. When dimensioning to the center line of a wall outlet. data: data, Sign up for our weekly newsletters and get: By signing in, you agree to our Terms and Conditions }, */ arc_external('.Thread', 150178787); Architectural Drawing Symbols. minHeight: 200, buttons: ['html', 'format', 'bold', 'italic', 'underline', 'lists', 'link', 'image'], plugins:'a11yhelp,basicstyles,bidi,blockquote,button,clipboard,colorbutton,colordialog,dialogadvtab,div,enterkey,entities,filebrowser,find,flash,font,format,forms,horizontalrule,iframe,image,indent,justify,link,list,maximize,newpage,pagebreak,pastefromword,pastetext,popup,preview,print,removeformat,resize,save,smiley,showblocks,showborders,sourcearea,stylescombo,table,specialchar,tab,templates,toolbar,undo,wysiwygarea,wsc,archinect,wysiwygarea', { Correct me if Iam wrong, FFL refers to the level at the top surface of floor finish. Making your blueprint can be exciting, especially if you are working with your contractor or architect to build a new house or add on to your current real estate project. Thus, SK= sketch, and ASK or SKA= Architectural sketch. linkShowTargetTab: false, [1] 2. Note that CAD programs will allow you to set up your lines in an infinite range of colours on the screen. { $(point).show(); You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked. scpt.parentNode.insertBefore(elem, scpt); }, { } { { customConfig : '', e.preventDefault(); "pullquote-centered": { var prev = $(point).attr("prev"); $(point).html(co.hide.text).attr("rel", 25).attr("original-title", co.hide.title); 6. Privacy Policy, 115 15th Avenue East, Suite 100, Seattle, WA 98112. Thus the architects level usually sets what the SSL should be and this will be reflected to the structural drawings where the surveyor uses in staking out. If youre someone who isn't quite sure, how do you go about figuring out your dream projects program? Find Government Contracts, Bids & RFP Opportunities | BidNet $(document).on('click', "#comment_moderation #cancel_button", function() { In many cases, the elevation of the finish floor is a benchmark elevation, with other dimensions noted as AFF or above this finish floor height. var reply_container = $(".arc_reply_comment_box").parents(".ReplyComments"); True, the surveyor who set the levels in the site, sets his point/ stakes based on the structural levels but this is not the case in design. { Please consult a professional architect, engineer, consultant, or agency for advice about specific projects, buildings, conditions, codes, and/or regulations. "subheading": { The size, orientation, and perceived mass of elements all play a role. { }, 500); Affiliate DisclosureThe links that lead to products on this page are affiliate links. This means something is existing and not to be touched. return false; @SneakyPeteI believe you are refering to "those" contractors. Also, someone told me, Architects lead the consultant team, therefore, its always the Architect (responsible for the finishes) will dectate the reference based on the top of the any finishes. { */ RO for me too. A Request For Information is sent from the general contractor to the architect (usually) and is just what it sounds like. } if(data > '') The Value of Quality Design and Engineering on Construction Projects, The Importance of Documenting Your Project. $("#featured_comments_section").append(''); var button = this; Your IP: imageUpload: function(image, json) Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site? function flag_comment(point) plugins: ['codemirror', 'imagemanager', 'removeformat', 'alignment'], "pullquote-right": { }, Dictionary of Architecture and Construction. You might also enjoy a few of the related posts below. Find out a few basic construction drawing abbreviations here. }, If your priority is FFL, use FFL. They are typically reinforced with rebar during construction, and often are a stand-in for poured concrete. 8. articles. No, that isnt quite true; we absolutely love them, but we also rely upon them. Understand the architectural sheets. A license agreement allows you to use the artist copyrighted material for a set period . { toolbarCanCollapse: false 3. { There are different symbols for different types of doors . */ } } For me, when architects do their designs and working drawings, I always think about the 3 items - design, conteact docs and workmanship/constructability. return false; $("form.arc_ajax_comment .CommentForm").slideDown(); args: ['h3', 'class', 'subheading', 'toggle'] From the materials that will be used for the inside of the building to the different materials and elements that you will find on the outside, everything will be outlined clearly in the architectural abbreviations on the blueprint. $(el).redactor('core.destroy'); $('.GlobalSocialIcons').hide(); setTimeout(detectOverlapping, 200); $('head').append( link ); 's': '')); return false; $(".arc_reply_comment_box").remove(); $('#arc_new_comment').slideDown(); var id = arc_pathname($(this).attr('href'), true); The AutoCAD file will appear as a new Visio drawing. removePlugins: 'liststyle,tabletools,contextmenu', RCP: An RCP, short for Reflected Ceiling Plan, is a common drawing in an architectural set. $(point).hide(); var elem = document.createElement('script'); }).blur(function() $('#arc_new_comment').hide(); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. indentUnit: 4 $.ajax( Most of these abbreviations are standard across the trades. function ban_user(point) And youll also find home appliances and control panels on this list, such as water heater (Wtr. */ { Design & Documentation > Construction Documentation. else ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act of 1992, AIA: American Institute of Architects or American Insurance Association, AIEE: American Institute of Electrical Engineers, AISC: American Institute of Steel Construction, ANSI: American National Standards Institute, APCIA: American Property Casualty Insurance Association, ASCE: American Society of Civil Engineers, ASME: American Society of Mechanical Engineers, ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials, G.F.C.I. The list of abbreviations used in a set of architectural drawings varies from office to office. imageUpload: function(image, json) url: '/reaction', }, data = $.parseJSON(data); args: ['p', 'class', 'chat-question', 'toggle'] Therefore, youll see several abbreviations and acronyms on your blueprints and paperwork. //forcePasteAsPlainText: true, formatting: ['p'], $(parent).find('.rating-count').removeAttr('original-title').hide(); $(".comment_user_" + data.id).slideUp(); { }, Visualize the ceiling over the floor below. if (value > 0) } action = 'remove'; }, var action = 'add'; Line types can be a pattern of dots, dashes, text and symbols and be broken and not continuous. This means that everything from the bathroom to the courtyard needs to be drawn to scale and considered carefully. else if(status == 'unblock') // removePlugins: 'elementspath,scayt,menubutton,contextmenu', if (y >= top) success: function(data, status, xhr) } This conversation came about when I had a kick off meeting with our team lead. if (prev == 'hidden') { I hear you Non, about sequencing, but: I always give horizontal dimensions to FACE of wall not structure, because I care about the finish space/clearance and I figure the contractor is better at subtracting gyp board thickness/stud actual dimensions than I am as s/he uses them all day. scayt_autoStartup: false, A change in dimension due to the point of referenece during installation usually ask a change directive. The few firms I've been with it's always been FF at 100'-0" and it referenced TOS. $(image).replaceWith('

'); Well, probably a really nasty door knob, as well. } { $('.arc_reply_comment_box').show(); After spending a couple of years working with industry leading builders in Austin, Jordan and his wife Veronica struck out on their own to form Smith House Co. lineWrapping: true, Architecture and Structural Engineering dual major, Selling Predesigned Home Plans. In our sets, we use TOS throughout as the benchmark (plans, sections, elevations) and then reference "AFF" to indicate hold dimensions for ADA things, etc. Many wall-mounted items (and especially the blocking for them) might be installed before the finished floor; therefore, a worker on the site may dimension from the subfloor. Building architects and designers are responsible for communicating countless things about a buildings construction: where it should be located on the lot, how it should be built, what materials should be used, what it should look like, and where the MEP systems that make it function go. title: 'Chat Question', This means architects and engineers need to maximize the space the best way they can. My role in the team was to help out with the production of drawings. Minimize smudging In order for hand drawn architectural drawings to convey their meaning, they need to be neat. I think there's a certain distance from street level/established grade to the "1st storey" level to call it 1st Storey according to the bldg code. I do not even bother thinking about the SFL. }, Make a decision. customConfig : '', The space between the window and the opening is then shimmed with little bits of wood to make it plumb. : AFF is the acronym for Above Finished Floor. Are you confused by all the blueprint abbreviations that youre seeing? Clear up any confusion by learning the different basic architectural abbreviations for drawings. alert(json.message); $(document).on('click', '.comment-rating .comment-rate', function(e) removePlugins: 'liststyle,tabletools,contextmenu', pasteBlockTags: ['ul', 'ol', 'li', 'p'], notifyButton: { { So that you won't be in the dark when you look at your architectural plans, find out some of the basic measurement and technical . $(".FeaturedComments").remove(); var link = $(''); $('#' + el).redactor({ var height = lineHeight * (lineCount + 1); }; title: 'Quote Right', It's added to a note that applies throughout the drawing and saves you from pointing to each instance. HVAC - Heating, ventilation and air conditioning, ADA - Americans with Disabilities Act of 1992, AIA - American Institute of Architects or the American Insurance Association, AISC - American Institute of Steel Construction, ANSI - American National Standards Institute, ASCE - American Society of Civil Engineers, ASME - American Society of Mechanical Engineers, ASTM - American Society for Testing and Materials, IEEE - Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, ISO - International Organization for Standards. */ buttons: ['bold', 'italic', 'lists', 'link'] toolbarCanCollapse: false }); He also said that this all depends on the policy of an office or a firm. Your email address will not be published. imageUploadFields: extra_params, A ceiling height of 8' is not a true 8' at a granite floor finished area compared to the ceiling height at the exposed cement finish area. var selector = $(".All-Comments-Header").length > 0 ? $("#featured_comments_section").remove(); }); linkShowTargetTab: false, { args: ['p', 'class', 'chat-question', 'toggle'] { Copyright 2011-2023, Board & Vellum. Know that you should never scale a drawing. Abbreviation used on construction plans and contract documents to indicate an elevation above the finished floor. arc_comment_head_actions(); title: 'Quote Left', var scpt = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; We dimension to face of stud (top and left) in new construction because the contractors suck as doing math. // otherwise remove it }, url: '/post_comment'+suffix+'/' + (new Date().getTime()) + arc_pathname(document.location.pathname), plugins: ['imagemanager'], Whoa!). They are approved by local governing bodies and by clients. success: function(data, status, xhr) I agree that the Structure gets built 1st before installing the finishes. $(referrer).hide(); Suggest AFF Architecture Abbreviation . } Classes include professionally produced videos taught by practicing craftspeople, and supplementary downloads like quizzes, blueprints, and other materials to help you master the skills. extra_params = false; { return false; link.attr({ type: 'text/css', rel: 'stylesheet', href: '/css/archinect.firefox.mac.css?1', }); Also, whichFloor Level serves as the basis of setting the other levels in a storey? cbp ufce authorized equipment list. }, 500); success: function(data, status, xhr) 3. type: 'POST', $(".ReplyHelp").remove(); $.modal.close(); { type: 'hidden', What Does TYP Mean? It ends up being very Us vs. success: function(data, status, xhr) $(document).ready(function () { Structure will always come first since it gets installed before the finishes - obviously - so you can't expect your formwork trade or carpenter to check your finishes schedule to gauge the thickness of finish.