How to Read Blueprints Symbols
If you've ever wanted to build your own home or get into architecture, then reading a blueprint correctly is a prerequisite to correct construction. Engineers and architects have developed a series of symbols to represent just about everything in a home. Learn how to interpret these symbols like a pro. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Look for symbols that have two dashed lines inside of two rectangles. These symbols represent awning and casement windows.
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2
Identify the symbols that look like a small grill on the front of a car. These symbols represent a window, pair of windows, or a vent.
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3
Find the symbols that look like a block C facing both right and left, with either triangles, lines, or circle sections between them. These symbols represent the different types of doors. Accordion fold doors, for example, will have a jagged line attached to just one of the Cs, while a swinging door will have what looks like a half a circle between the Cs.
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Find circles with lines through them, with or without a triangle inside the circle. These symbols show you the different types of outlets.
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5
Look for dollar signs, with or without numbers. These symbols represent electrical switches.
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6
Find the symbol that looks like a circle with four lines protruding from it. This symbol is for a light fixture.
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Identify a symbol that looks like the ying-yang symbol. This shows the location of an exhaust fan.
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8
Look for rectangles that are divided into two or four triangles. These represent ducts.
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Look for rectangles that are filled with circles, wavy lines, diamonds, or diagonal lines. These symbols represent the various materials of the main foundation and walls, such as wood, cement and insulation.
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Tips & Warnings
You may notice that each type of fixture uses a certain shape--the materials for the foundation and walls, for instance, are always in rectangles. Outlets always are represented by circles. Even if you can't remember the specifics within the shapes, knowing what feature goes with each shape can give you a basic understanding of what is in the blueprint.
