Structural Plans (S Sheets) Cheat Sheet
Your Extended Reference Guide for Navigating Structural Drawings
1. What S Sheets Include
- Foundation Plans (Slab, Footings, Piers)
- Framing Plans (Floors, Roofs)
- Structural Details (Beams, Columns, Connections)
- Rebar Layouts and Schedules
- Structural General Notes
- Shear Wall and Bracing Locations
- Load and Bearing Symbols
2. How to Navigate S Sheets
- Start with foundation plans to see building support system
- Follow framing layouts for joist and beam direction
- Refer to section and detail markers for connection build-out
- Check notes for allowable loads, concrete PSI, steel grades
- Verify all dimensions and materials using schedules
Use elevation markers to understand changes in floor or roof height
3. Key Symbols & Legends
- Beam Label: Often B# or W# referencing a structural steel size
- Footing Tag: F# references standard or custom footing type
- Rebar Notation: #4 @ 12" o.c. (bar size and spacing)
- Shear Wall: Noted with line hatching or labels such as SW1, SW2
- Connection Details: Section cut symbols pointing to specific detail drawings
4. Tips for Estimators & Contractors
- Use foundation plans to quantify concrete and rebar volumes
- Framing plans help quantify structural steel, joists, or wood framing
- Shear wall layouts critical for framing and drywall trades
- Check all callouts for embed plates, anchor bolts, or hold-downs
- Use general notes to validate materials and construction tolerances
Compare S Sheets with A Sheets to check alignment of walls, openings, and columns
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming wall locations without confirming shear and bracing
- Missing footing depth and dimension changes
- Not recognizing detail references linked to structural notes
- Overlooking moment frames or engineered connections
- Estimating rebar incorrectly without bar schedules