Drafting Services FAQ
At IGI, we understand that drafting and design services can raise questions about process, compliance, and outcomes. This FAQ page answers the most common questions about our residential drafting services and commercial & industrial drafting services, including details for each subservice we provide.
Commercial & Industrial Services
Q: What are industrial drafting services?
A: Industrial drafting services provide detailed, compliant documentation for facilities, equipment, and processes.
Q: Why are industrial drawings important?
A: They ensure compliance with regulations, reduce errors during installation, and provide clarity for contractors and inspectors. Learn more on our Commercial & Industrial Services page.
Q: What is 3D laser scanning?
A: 3D Laser Scanning & Reality Capture uses LiDAR to capture millions of data points that create accurate digital models of existing conditions.
Q: Why is 3D scanning valuable?
A: It provides precise as-built documentation, reducing errors and supporting retrofits or expansions. See our 3D Laser Scanning services.
Q: What is included in 3D modeling services?
A: 3D Modeling for Parts & Assemblies creates digital models that validate fit, function, and fabrication readiness.
Q: How does 3D modeling help fabrication?
A: 3D Modeling for Parts & Assemblies reduces errors, saves material, and allows testing before production.
Q: What is a bill of materials (BOM)?
A: A Bill of Materials lists all components, materials, and quantities required for a project.
Q: What is a material take-off?
A: A material take-off extracts exact quantities of materials directly from drawings for procurement and estimating.
Q: Why do demolition projects need drafting?
A: Demolition Packages provide sequencing, identify utilities, and ensure compliance with safety standards.
Q: What is included in a demolition package?
A: A Demolition Package includes site drawings, phasing plans, and hazard identification.
Q: What are fabrication detailing services?
A: Fabrication Detailing provides sheet sets and shop drawings that show how parts should be manufactured and assembled.
Q: Why are fabrication drawings important?
A: Fabrication Detailing eliminates guesswork, reduces rework, and ensures compliance with industry standards.
Q: What is finite element analysis?
A: Finite Element Analysis simulates how a part or assembly will react to stress, strain, and vibration.
Q: What is the benefit of FEA?
A: Finite Element Analysis identifies weaknesses before fabrication, reducing prototyping and ensuring safety.
Q: Why are equipment layouts important?
A: Industrial & Process Equipment Layouts optimize workflow, ensure safety compliance, and allow for scalability.
Q: What is included in an equipment layout?
A: Industrial & Process Equipment Layouts detail clearances, utilities, access points, and equipment positioning.
Q: What does industrial project management cover?
A: Industrial Project Management includes scope creation, drafting coordination, contractor communication, and oversight.
Q: Why hire IGI for project management?
A: Industrial Project Management reduces delays, ensures compliance, and keeps contractors aligned.
Q: What is a facility layout?
A: An Office & Facility Layout is a scaled drawing that shows office, warehouse, or plant floor plans designed for safety and efficiency.
Q: Why invest in facility layouts?
A: Office & Facility Layouts improve workflow, reduce hazards, and plan for future growth.
Q: Why are piping system drawings required?
A: Piping System Design ensures systems meet ASME standards and operate safely and efficiently.
Q: What is included in piping system design?
A: Piping System Design details routes, supports, materials, and integration with equipment.
Q: What is the difference between a PID and a PFD?
A: A Process Diagram shows detailed piping, valves, and instruments, while a PFD shows the broader flow of materials and energy.
Q: Why are process diagrams important?
A: Process Diagrams ensure compliance, support training, and provide clear system documentation.
Q: What is included in sheet metal design services?
A: Sheet Metal Design includes flat patterns, bend details, and assembly drawings for fabrication.
Q: How do accurate designs help fabricators?
A: Sheet Metal Design reduces waste, improves fit, and minimizes rework.
Residential Services
Q: What are residential drafting services?
A: Residential drafting services provide detailed, code-compliant drawings for projects such as decks, additions, and pole barns.
Q: Why do I need professional drawings for residential projects?
A: Professional drawings ensure your project meets building codes, passes inspections, and can be built accurately without costly changes. Learn more on our Residential Services page.
Q: Do I need drawings for a new deck or patio?
A: Yes. Most municipalities require permit-ready drawings for Deck & Patio Design to confirm safety, code compliance, and structural integrity.
Q: What details are included in deck and patio design plans?
A: Plans include dimensions, materials, structural supports, and code-required features. Visit our Deck & Patio Design page for details.
Q: What does a landscape design plan include?
A: A Landscape Design plan shows the layout of plantings, hardscapes, grading, and drainage solutions.
Q: Why use a drafted landscape plan?
A: Drafted Landscape Design plans improve contractor accuracy, ensure sustainability, and reduce maintenance issues.
Q: What do addition design drawings cover?
A: Building Additions drawings include floor plans, elevations, structural details, and integration with your existing home.
Q: Are drawings required for all home additions?
A: Yes. Any structural Building Additions typically requires township-approved drawings before construction begins.
Q: Do pole barns require permit drawings?
A: In most areas, yes. Pole Barn Design must meet structural, zoning, and accessory building codes.
Q: What information is in a pole barn design?
A: Plans for Pole Barn Design include dimensions, post layouts, roof trusses, foundations, and material specifications.
Q: Why are permit drawings important?
A: Permit drawings demonstrate compliance with codes and allow township inspectors to approve projects. See our Plans & Permit Support page for details.
Q: Can IGI print plan sets for contractors?
A: Yes. We provide large-format printing through our Plans & Permit Support services.
Q: What does residential project management include?
A: Residential Project Management includes coordinating drawings, contractor communication, permit submissions, and documentation oversight.
Q: How does project management benefit homeowners?
A: Residential Project Management reduces stress, prevents delays, and ensures that all parties stay aligned.