CDS Blueprint Reading & Specifications 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: On structural demolition drawings, what does the abbreviation 'EXG' or 'EXIST.' typically indicate?
- Work to be performed after demolition
- A new element to be installed
- An existing condition already present on-site (Correct answer)
- An element requiring engineering review
Correct answer: An existing condition already present on-site
'EXG' or 'EXIST.' labels elements that are already in place and must be accounted for during demolition planning.
Question 2: A legend on a demolition drawing shows a solid black fill pattern. This most commonly indicates which condition?
- Material to remain and be protected
- Material to be demolished and removed (Correct answer)
- Material to be relocated
- New construction to be added
Correct answer: Material to be demolished and removed
A solid black or heavy cross-hatch fill pattern in demolition drawings conventionally marks materials scheduled for removal.
Question 3: What information is typically found in the title block of a construction or demolition blueprint?
- Structural load calculations
- Project name, drawing number, scale, date, and designer's seal (Correct answer)
- Soil boring logs
- Equipment rental schedules
Correct answer: Project name, drawing number, scale, date, and designer's seal
The title block contains key administrative information: project name, drawing number, revision dates, scale, and the engineer or architect's seal.
Question 4: During selective demolition, blueprints call out 'INFILL' at a door opening. What does this mean for the demolition crew?
- Remove the door and infill the opening with new material
- Demolish the infill already present in the opening (Correct answer)
- Protect the door in place with temporary framing
- Relocate the door to a new position
Correct answer: Demolish the infill already present in the opening
When blueprints label an opening 'INFILL,' it means a previously blocked or filled opening is to be demolished and opened back up.
Question 5: A specification section's 'Quality Assurance' article typically requires the demolition contractor to do which of the following?
- Provide the owner with a financial bond only
- Submit qualifications, certifications, and sometimes a pre-demolition survey (Correct answer)
- Design new structural systems to replace demolished elements
- Obtain all permits after demolition is complete
Correct answer: Submit qualifications, certifications, and sometimes a pre-demolition survey
Quality assurance requirements typically mandate proof of contractor qualifications, certifications, and a pre-demolition survey to document existing conditions.
Question 6: On a plumbing or mechanical demolition drawing, what does the note 'CAP AND ABANDON' mean?
- Remove all piping back to the main and restore the wall
- Seal the pipe end at the nearest accessible point and leave it in place (Correct answer)
- Install a new shutoff valve and continue service
- Flush and pressurize the line before closure
Correct answer: Seal the pipe end at the nearest accessible point and leave it in place
'Cap and Abandon' means the pipe is sealed at a specified point and left in place rather than fully removed, reducing demolition scope.
Question 7: Which drawing type in a full set of construction documents would show the demolition contractor the location of existing underground utilities?
- Reflected ceiling plan
- Civil or site utility plan (Correct answer)
- Roof plan
- Interior elevation drawing
Correct answer: Civil or site utility plan
Civil or site utility plans depict the layout of underground systems like water, sewer, gas, and electrical conduit on or near the site.
CDS Blueprint Reading & Specifications 3
On structural demolition drawings, what does the abbreviation 'EXG' or 'EXIST.' typically indicate?