Structural drawings, also known as engineer drawings and structural plans, are drawings that outline how a building or structure is going to be built. They are put together by trained engineers or technicians and will feature a wide range of detail, including the type of materials that are set to be used, the size of the project, as well as offering a general layout of the project.

Structural drawings are a crucial component of any engineering project, with a primary purpose to communicate a vision of how a project will be built, they also have a range of intentions. 

Some of their core focuses include:

• Communicate design intent - The main reason for engineer drawings is to serve as a means of communication between architects and engineers. They simply and easily convey the design specifications of a project and ensure everyone is on the same page.

• Provide guidance - Contractors and builders will also use structural drawings for guidance. The drawings will provide vital information about the work and include details such as where to erect components and ensure the build meets health and safety guidelines. 

• Material specifications - Structural drawings include specifications for the materials that are going to be used. This ensures the appropriate materials are always utilised throughout the project. 

• Load distribution and support systems - Drawings will depict how loads from buildings, such as the weight of floors, walls, and roofs, are distributed and supported by the various structural elements. This includes beams, foundations, and columns.