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In most cases, they are submitted with the construction drawings for a building permit application.
They are part of the package for pricing the project for the client.
They are used for construction. All related plumbing lines; drains, connections and vents must be installed according to the approved drawings.
A mechanical engineering company produces the drawings.
The drawings must comply with the National Plumbing Code. They must also comply with the National Building Code and all Provincial and local codes.
Engineers produce their own drawings. They are based on plans provided by the interior designer or architect. These plans show the engineer the location of plumbing fixtures for the design. These are items such as toilets, sinks, water heater, etc. Some projects require piping for equipment as well.
Generally, the engineer draws a plumbing plan and connection diagrams.
Typical diagrams are of the water supply system and the sanitary stack.
Legends, schedules and notes specific to the project are added.
On small projects, there are usually only a few fixtures, a sink and a toilet. In this case, the required information is included on the mechanical drawings sheets.
For large or complex designs, the plan(s), diagrams, notes, etc. are on separate sheets titled plumbing drawings. Several sheets may be required to cover all the information.
The engineer’s drawings must provide information regarding the connections to the main water and sanitary sewer lines. The layout of any existing and new piping is indicated on the plan. The size for all lines, water, sanitary, venting, etc. must be noted. The hook up to the water meter, new or existing is covered. Also the type, size and location of the water heater are specified.
The following are typical to a set of drawings:
- A plan with lines and symbols representing all piping
- Symbol legend, general notes and specific key notes
- Fixture schedule, specifying the manufacturer and model for each item.
- The sizes for all piping, cold/ hot water, sanitary, vent lines, etc.
- Diagrams, such as water riser, sanitary stack
- Information regarding the water heater
Other information, depending on the project:
- Details drawings, such as water heater, water meter connection, floor drains
- Diagrams or details referencing special equipment requirements
- Fire protection notes
- Fire sprinkler notes and symbols (ex. Sprinkler lines and heads)
- Special air lines
- Natural gas lines
Engineer’s drawings are required for all commercial projects involving any plumbing work.
This applies to additions, renovations or new construction. A permit is required prior to commencing any work on site.
Building codes specify the number of toilets, urinals, lavatories, etc. required in a building or space, based on the occupancy type. In many cases the facilities must be design as accessible for the handicapped. The designer, architect and engineer must all comply with all codes when producing their drawings.
A professional engineer also provides the required drawings and reports for a septic tank installation. A sewage permit must be obtained. A septic tank is installed where a sanitary sewage connection to a municipal treatment facility is not possible.
A licenced well contractor must be hired for constructing any water wells. A well provides water supply to a building where a connection to a municipal system is not possible.
Concept and designs are the first stage of any project.
When established, the next stage is construction drawings.
Once a floor plan is complete, it is passed over to the engineer to produce his drawings.
The engineer’s drawings become part of the construction drawing set.
To learn more about construction drawings, click on the heading below.
Construction Drawings Before Plumbing Drawings
The following are unrelated examples of the content on plumbing drawings.
The images shown below are for demonstration purposes only.
They are not intended to provide any specific information and therefore should not be copied.
Partial Plan
Diagram
Legend
