What is structural drafting and what does it include?
Structural drafting is the creation of detailed technical drawings that show how a building's structural system is designed and must be constructed. It includes foundation plans, framing plans, section drawings, connection details, and structural notes - all formatted for permit submission and contractor execution. Structural drafting services typically use AutoCAD or Revit to produce these drawings to applicable building code standards.
How much do structural design and drafting services cost?
Structural drafting costs depend on project size, complexity, and the level of documentation required. A simple residential addition may cost $500-$2,000 for structural drawings. A full commercial structural package for a mid-size building typically ranges from $5,000-$25,000. Large industrial or high-rise projects are quoted individually. We provide a fixed-fee written proposal before any work begins - so there are no surprises.
How fast can you deliver structural drawings?
Standard structural drafting projects are delivered in 5-15 business days depending on size and complexity. Residential structural drawings for permit submission are often delivered in 3-7 business days. Rush delivery is available for time-critical submissions. We confirm the exact delivery timeline in writing before the project begins - and we meet it.
What is the difference between 2D CAD drafting and BIM structural modeling?
2D CAD drafting produces flat technical drawings - floor plans, sections, elevations, and details - used directly by contractors to build from. BIM (Building Information Modeling) creates a coordinated 3D digital model where every structural element has embedded data. BIM is preferred on larger projects where multiple consultants need to coordinate and clash detection is essential. Most projects under 5 stories use 2D CAD; larger or more complex projects benefit from BIM. We offer both, and can recommend the right approach for your project.
Do you provide structural drawings for permit submission?
Yes. All of our structural drawings are formatted and documented for permit submission to US building departments. We produce code-compliant drawings referencing the applicable International Building Code (IBC), ASCE 7, ACI 318, and AISC standards - including all required notes, calculations references, and engineer-of-record information. We are familiar with requirements across California, Texas, Florida, New York, and other major US states.
Can you work with my architectural drawings and produce structural drawings from them?
Yes - this is our standard workflow. You provide your architectural plans, and we produce a fully coordinated structural design and drawing set based on those documents. We review the architectural drawings for structural feasibility, develop the structural system, perform engineering calculations, and produce construction-ready CAD or BIM drawings formatted to coordinate directly with your architectural set.
Do you provide outsourced structural drafting for engineering firms?
Yes. We regularly work as a white-label structural drafting partner for engineering firms, architectural practices, and construction companies across the United States. We match your drawing standards, title blocks, and naming conventions - so deliverables look like your own work. NDA protection is standard, and files are transferred securely. We support both single projects and ongoing drafting requirements.
What structural codes do your drawings comply with?
Our structural drawings comply with the International Building Code (IBC), ASCE 7 (loads), ACI 318 (concrete), AISC 360 (steel), and NDS (wood), along with applicable state amendments. We are familiar with California Building Code (CBC), Florida Building Code (FBC), Texas standards, and New York City Building Code requirements. We confirm the applicable code set at project kickoff and document all references in the drawing set.