5 Common Mistakes Building Plans for Remodels & Additions Have
Most of the projects that are completed in the state of California and in San Diego County need a set of building plans which dictate how the project will look after it is completed. This is the blueprint that all the contractors and sub-contractors will follow, from demolition to framing, electrical, etc. Very commonly in remodeling projects there are errors that are not seen by the architect, structural engineer, drafter or the home owner before the printed plans are delivered to the contractor. As an owner-builder or contractor it is a very good idea to double check the plans and its specifications to make sure that what it’s stated is the proper way of doing things, this will avoid you a lot of headaches and delays in the long run.
Here are some of the most common errors that I have come across while working with building plans for remodels, alterations and additions.
- Incorrect Measurements
- Incorrect measurements are one of the most common errors that we come across in our alteration projects. Many times, the person that is doing the initial measurements does not take the time to do it with extreme attention to detail. This error unfortunately affects all the other phases of the project as it is what states what goes where. It is very important to double and even triple check the measurements that are provided before starting on any work. Report any discrepancies to the owner or architect so that the proper changes can be made.
- Incorrect engineer calculations
- Another common mistake that I have seen in the past are improper calculations delivered by the structural engineer. This affects the type of foundation that is required, the size of the posts and beams, the connectors needed and many other important aspects of the construction process. Although the local building ordinance will revise the plans to make sure they are up to code, one must check them after to make sure they will work on your setting. Remember that the building inspector and its office do not know the property as you do, and at the end it will be your responsibility to do it properly.
- Incorrect wall design plan
- There are times where the architect does not take certain details in consideration when designing the layout of the walls. At times he states that a load bearing wall and its non-bearing or the other way around, as well there are times where the measurement are not correct and fitting that layout makes the areas very odd size. Review this layout before any of the project begins and if possible before submitting the plans to the city for review. This will save you money in changed down the road and will help your project run more smoothly.
- Missing supports / beams
- Although both the structural engineer and the architect try to think of every situation that could occur. Many times, since the house or structure might still be cover with stucco or drywall, they are not able to see and catch all the different scenarios. Due to this limited accessibility at times they do not install support walls or beams at areas where needed. A very common area this problem is noted is at load bearing walls where ceiling joists change their direction. Take some time after demolition has been completed to make sure that all the changes can be completed without causing any direct or indirect problems.
- Missing details / brackets on important connections
- The plan details are some of the most important sections which can easily be missed or completed improperly. This are the areas on your plan which show how load bearing connections must be made, and if done improperly it could create a hazardous living condition.