Getting your glass shop drawings approved can feel like solving a complex puzzle. Architects have specific expectations, and meeting them requires more than just technical skill.
These seven useful tips will help you create drawings that earn approval on the first submission, saving time and building stronger professional relationships.
Choose Good Glass Shop Drawing Specialists
Finding the right team makes all the difference in your project’s success. Look for glass shop drawing professionals who understand both the technical requirements and the aesthetic vision architects bring to their projects.
Experience with similar building types matters significantly. Someone who has worked on commercial high-rises will understand different requirements than those who specialize in residential projects. Ask potential specialists about their recent projects and request samples of their work.
Confirm Material Selection
Material specifications form the foundation of any successful glass shop drawing. Double-check every specification against the original architectural plans before you begin drafting.
Glass thickness, type, and performance requirements must match exactly. Pay special attention to:
- Energy efficiency ratings
- Safety glass requirements
- Acoustic performance specifications
- Tinting or coating requirements
Document any discrepancies you find and resolve them before proceeding. Making assumptions about materials leads to costly revisions later in the process.
Accuracy in Measurements
Precise measurements are non-negotiable in glass shop drawings. Even small errors can result in panels that don’t fit properly, causing delays and additional costs. Take field measurements whenever possible rather than relying solely on architectural drawings.
Buildings settle and construction tolerances can create variations from the original plans. Use digital measuring tools for the highest accuracy. Create a systematic checking process where another team member verifies all critical dimensions.
Review Environmental Factors
Environmental conditions significantly impact glass performance and installation requirements. Architects appreciate when shop drawings demonstrate awareness of these factors. Wind loads vary dramatically based on building height, location, and local weather patterns.
Calculate these loads accurately and show how your glazing system will handle them. Include information about thermal expansion and contraction, especially for large glass panels.
Consider seasonal installation challenges. If installation will happen during extreme weather, note any special requirements or limitations in your drawings.
Confirm Proper Tolerances
Manufacturing and installation tolerances must be clearly defined and realistic. Architects need to understand what variations to expect in the finished product. Standard industry tolerances might not work for every project.
High-end architectural projects often require tighter tolerances than typical commercial work. Discuss these expectations early in the project. Show tolerance information clearly on your drawings using standard notation methods. Include both manufacturing tolerances and installation tolerances where they differ.
Clarity in Annotations
Clear, comprehensive annotations transform technical drawings into useful construction documents. Architects rely on these notes to understand your installation methods and material choices. Use consistent terminology throughout your drawing set.
Create a legend or notes section that defines any specialized terms or abbreviations you use. This prevents confusion during construction. Include installation sequences when they’re critical to the project’s success. Some glazing systems require specific installation orders that aren’t obvious from the drawings alone.
Comply with Industry Standards
Architects expect your drawings to meet all relevant industry standards and building codes. Staying current with these requirements protects both your reputation and the project’s approval process.
Research local building codes that might affect glazing requirements. Some jurisdictions have specific rules about glass thickness, safety ratings, or energy performance that go beyond standard industry practices.
Document which standards you’re following directly on your drawings. This shows architects that you’ve considered compliance requirements and helps building officials during their review process.