Fundamentals of Blueprint Reading & Construction Estimating

Learn how blueprint drawings are organized and how information is referenced throughout a set of construction blueprint drawings. Demonstrate an understanding of the inter-relationship between the construction drawings and a quantity-takeoff cost estimate.

Overview

Start at the very beginning in this blueprint reading and construction estimating course with drawing scale lessons that are thorough and detailed. During this online blueprint reading course, you will discover how blueprint drawings are organized and how information is referenced throughout a set of construction blueprint drawings. Your estimating training will also help you understand how to review architectural and engineering blueprint drawings and project specifications.

By course completion, you will understand the interrelationship between the construction drawings and a quantity-takeoff cost estimate, analyze the components of a cost estimate, and learn how a quantity-takeoff cost estimate is created. Furthermore, you will master an understanding of quantity surveying, estimating takeoffs, and pricing estimated quantities and recognize the need for thoroughness and attention to detail when preparing cost estimates.

What you will learn

• Demonstrate an understanding of the inter-relationship between the drawings included in a set of construction documents
• Evaluate the similarities between all sets of blueprint construction documents submitted for building permits
• Gain experience understanding how 3D model presentations within a set of construction documents makes the construction documents easier to understand the project
• Analyze the components of a construction cost estimate and learn how a quantity-takeoff cost estimate is created
• Master an understanding of quantity surveying, estimating takeoffs, and pricing estimated quantities

How you will benefit

• Develop skills needed to read and understand construction documents on both residential and commercial projects
• Gain an understanding of the relationship between construction documents, the quantity takeoff, and the construction process
• Obtain an understanding of important terminology and jargon used in the construction industry

Syllabus

1. Blueprint Reading for Residential ConstructionBlueprint Reading Basics
   Title Sheet & Floor Plans
   Elevations, Sections & Schedules
   Wall Sections & Details
   Structural Drawings
   Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing
   Title Sheet
   Architectural Site Plans
   Floor Plans
   Building Sections & Elevations
   Interior Elevations & Roof Plan
   Details, Schedules & Electrical
   
2. Blueprint Reading for Commercial ConstructionCover Sheet & Floor Plans
   Elevations, Sections & Wall Types
   Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
   Interior Design & Civil
   Structural
   Mechanical
   Electrical
   Plumbing
   Technology & Project Specifications
   
3. Introduction to Construction EstimatingWhat is Estimating?
   Definitions & Abbreviations
   Units of Measure
   The Takeoff
   Pricing Resources
   Cost Categories
   The Estimate
   Project Considerations
   Validation
   Estimate Cover Sheet, Recap & Instructor Thoughts
   

Requirements

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 7 or later.
• Mac: macOS 12 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Microsoft Word Online
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites to complete this course.