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Writer's pictureSeth Gilley

Difference Between IFR and IFC Drawings

Key Highlights

  • IFR stands for Issued for Review, while IFC stands for Issued for Construction.

  • IFRs are preliminary drawings used for review and feedback, while IFCs are finalized drawings used for construction.

  • IFCs are considered contract documents, while IFRs are not.

  • Understanding the difference between IFR and IFC drawings is crucial for effective communication and project execution.

  • Proper revision control is essential for both IFR and IFC drawings to track changes and maintain project clarity.

Difference Between IFR and IFC Drawings

What is the difference between IFR and IFC drawings?

In construction projects, clear and timely communication through drawings is very important. Shop drawings are a key part of contract documents. They give detailed information about the construction process. Among the many construction drawings, IFR and IFC drawings are crucial. They help make the construction process smoother and keep everyone on the same page.


This blog will look at the differences between IFR and IFC drawings and explain why they're important in construction projects.


Understanding IFR and IFC Drawings in Construction

Construction projects require many people to work together. Drawings are the shared language for architects, engineers, and contractors. There are two main types of these drawings: IFR and IFC drawings.


Each type has its own purpose. Understanding the differences between them is key to managing and carrying out a project well. While both types help during the design and construction stages, they have different roles and meanings.


Definition of IFR (Issued for Review) Drawings

IFR (Issued for Review) drawings are very important in a construction project. They are part of the document revision process. These drawings come out before the IFC (Issued for Construction) drawings. Generally, IFR drawings are known as the second revision and have a new revision number. They are a key step in the development of construction drawings. IFR drawings help make sure everything is accurate and on track during the construction process.


Definition of IFC (Issued for Construction) Drawings

IFC drawings, which mean Issued for Construction, are very important in a construction project. They show the last version for building and include changes made before. IFC drawings are a key part of the contract documents. They help guide the whole construction process. It is crucial that these drawings are accurate and detailed. This way, the building can go smoothly on-site. Overall, IFC drawings are a basic part of the group of construction drawings.


Key Differences Between IFR and IFC Drawings

The difference between IFR and IFC drawings goes beyond just their names. It has to do with their purpose and how they are used.


Both types show visual details of the construction project, but they play different roles during the project’s lifecycle. Knowing these differences is important for good communication and teamwork among everyone involved in the project. By understanding what each drawing type means, people can manage the construction process more clearly and accurately.


Purpose and Usage in Construction Projects

The main purpose of an IFR drawing is to help with the review process. This allows people to give feedback and make changes before the design is finished. IFR drawings are also a way for different people to communicate. They help spot and fix any design issues early on. On the other hand, IFC drawings are used after the design has been fully checked, changed, and approved.


IFC drawings include all the important information, specs, and details needed to start and carry out the construction. In short, IFRs guide the design, while IFCs guide the construction.


Detailing and Specifications

The details and specifications in an IFR drawing may be not as complete as in an IFC drawing. IFRs are mainly for review. They focus on the design's purpose rather than small construction details.


On the other hand, IFC drawings go into the specifics of construction. They show dimensions, materials, installation methods, and other key information that helps the contractor. If there are unclear parts in IFC drawings, it can cause expensive redo work and project delays. This shows how important it is to have clear details in these final drawings.


The Role of IFR and IFC Drawings in Project Lifecycle

IFR and IFC drawings are not separate parts. They are important pieces of a larger construction project. Their role shows how the project changes, from early design ideas to the finished building. It is important to understand their place in the whole process to see why they matter.


As a construction project advances through its stages, what these drawings show and their purpose also change.


From Concept to Construction: The Journey of a Drawing

A construction project starts with some basic sketches and early drawings. These first steps often form the base for initial IFR drawings. They show the main idea of the design and help with discussions. The design goes through several reviews. Each time, feedback is added, and the IFR drawings change.


With each change, the design gets closer to being final. When all important people approve the design, the IFC drawings are created. This moment is a big shift in the project. It means moving from designing to building. The IFC drawings, now approved, guide the contractor. They have all the key information needed to create the planned structure.


Compliance and Regulatory Considerations

Both IFR and IFC drawings are important for following building codes, rules, and industry standards. IFRs might not get as much attention as IFCs during reviews, but they still show what the design is meant to be. They can show how the project plans to meet certain standards.


IFCs are contract documents, so they are very important for showing proper compliance. Local authorities often get them for building permits and inspections. They serve as proof that the construction follows safety and building rules.


Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to understand the differences between IFR and IFC drawings for successful construction projects. IFR drawings are used for review, while IFC drawings are ready for construction. The careful details and rules in these drawings help guarantee the project is accurate and follows regulations.


From start to finish, these drawings help guide the project, highlighting the need for clarity and precision in construction documents. If you have questions or want to learn more about IFR and IFC drawings, please reach out for help.


If you are Located in Santa Rosa, CA, and Looking for Drafting Services or a Permit Drawing Expert, Get in Touch with Outside the Box Today.





Frequently Asked Questions


How do IFC drawings facilitate construction processes?

IFC drawings are the final blueprints that contractors use to build a project. They explain the design in detail. These drawings include specifications and materials. This helps make sure the construction matches the approved design. They act as a manual for the whole building process.


What is the primary purpose of IFR drawings?

The main purpose of IFR drawings is to start the review process in a construction project. They are shared for feedback and changes, and to get approvals before construction starts. This way, potential problems are found early.


How do revisions affect IFR and IFC drawings?

Revisions happen often in the design process. Each time an IFR drawing is changed, it receives a new revision number. When an IFC drawing is updated, it shows a change that must be shown in the construction process. This change can affect timelines and costs.


Can IFR drawings be used for construction purposes?

IFR drawings should not be used for building. They do not have all the important details and approvals that contractors need. If you use IFR drawings for construction, it could go against the approved design. This may lead to legal problems and issues with compliance.


What are the common misconceptions about IFC drawings?

A common mistake is thinking that once IFC drawings are issued, no more changes can be made. In reality, changes can still happen, but they usually need formal change orders and approvals. This misunderstanding shows that although IFCs mean the design is final, construction can be flexible and may still need updates.


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