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.
