What Makes a Great Set of Construction Documents

If there’s one thing that can make or break a construction project, it’s the quality of the Construction Documents (CDs). As someone who lives and breathes drafting, I’ve learned that a well-crafted set of construction drawings doesn’t just make the builder's life easier—it also protects the client, reduces confusion, and keeps the entire team on the same page from start to finish.

So, what makes a great set of Construction Documents?

1. Clarity and Precision

Clear, legible drawings are essential. Lines should be clean, symbols should be recognizable, and notes should be concise. There’s no room for ambiguity on a construction site—what’s drawn is what gets built. Every detail needs to be communicated in a way that leaves no room for misinterpretation.

2. Logical Organization

A good set of CDs follows a logical flow—starting with cover sheets and general notes, then moving into site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, and details. When sheets are arranged consistently, contractors know where to look for what they need. That organization saves time and minimizes errors.

3. Consistency

Line weights, text styles, hatching, and dimensions should follow a consistent format throughout the documents. Inconsistencies can make your set appear unprofessional or incomplete, and worse—they can be confusing.

4. Coordination Across Trades

A great CD set takes coordination into account. Architectural drawings should align with structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plans. If the MEP contractor has to guess where a duct should go, that’s a red flag. Coordination reduces costly changes in the field and helps ensure everything fits together.

5. Code Compliance

A solid CD set references and adheres to relevant local and national building codes. It’s not just about designing what looks good—it’s about what’s legal and safe. Marking things like egress paths, fire-rated assemblies, and accessibility compliance is crucial.

6. Details, Details, Details

Construction thrives on detail. Wall sections, footing details, LVL assemblies—these small drawings provide the guidance needed to get complex assemblies built correctly. A well-detailed set reflects experience and shows you’ve thought about constructability.

7. Notes That Add Value

Too many notes clutter the page. Too few leave too much to chance. A great set of CDs includes just the right amount of annotation—especially on key construction decisions, material call-outs, and design intentions.

8. Revisions and Document Control

Keeping track of changes is critical. Whether through revision clouds, updated dates, or a clearly defined revision block, a professional CD set will communicate what’s been changed and when. This keeps everyone in sync and avoids building off outdated drawings.

Why It Matters to Us

At Jones’s Burrow & Books, we strive to provide more than just a set of drawings. We aim to deliver complete, buildable, and reliable Construction Documents that help our contractor partners succeed and ensure our clients feel confident in the process. Whether it's a home addition, renovation, or new construction, we believe that great documentation is the backbone of every great build.