To Shop Drawing, or Not to Shop Drawing?

There’s a lot to take into account when it comes to quality assurance of your project.

Building code requirements are meant to provide suppliers, manufacturers, and contractors with standards to follow in order to produce and install products that meet safety, NAFS, and Energy performance requirements. Today’s standard window specs are based on - the building code and known industry handbooks. So, do you always need engineered shop drawings to ensure you’re meeting full quality and performance standards?

When do you need engineered shop drawings?

If there is a consultant, engineer, or architect involved in your project requiring an engineer-certified stamp of approval in the design, then they’ll need shop drawings. They can be used for all buildings, but they’re generally required when multi-dwelling units are constructed. They’re not typically necessary for single-family homes, but may be used depending on the manufacturer and contractor. Consultants will also be hired to ensure everything is up to code.

When it comes to the application stage, the city will review the house plans, Energy performance specs, and NAFS rating. If something is beyond their level of design and performance expertise, they may specify shop drawings.

What do you get when you go through a standard window spec process?

If you’re dealing with a reputable manufacturer like Centra, you can be assured that quality is our utmost priority. Our Sales team will review your house plans and adjust the product requirements based on industry handbooks and building code. Our Estimation team will review it and have our Engineering team do the same before submitting it to the contractor. Unlike shop drawings, this process does not include extra engineering fees or extra time to have approved.

So, to shop drawing or not to shop drawing?

Engineered shop drawings are sometimes necessary. If they’re specified, then at least you know you’re getting a great form of quality assurance for your project despite the added cost and time. If they aren’t requested, however, then do your due diligence and find a company like Centra that has already done the legwork. We have a team of experts who are well versed in building code and regulations, and we can get you where you need to be without going through the shop drawing process.

We are your certified Window Geeks

We love to talk windows! The demand for glass is at its all-time highest, but we are working with our customers to ensure you get the products you need. Contact us as early in the process as possible so we can help secure your order and keep your project on schedule. We will guide you early on so that your project and supply requirements are met. You can also sign up for our biweekly newsletter, providing all the tips and tricks about the window industry.