What does "shop drawings" refer to?

"Shop drawings" specifically refer to detailed drawings that are produced by contractors, fabricators, or suppliers to illustrate how they intend to fabricate and install specific components of a project. These drawings provide a level of detail that goes beyond the original design drawings provided by the architect or engineer. They often include specifications for materials, dimensions, and other special features.

The primary purpose of shop drawings is to ensure that everyone involved in the construction process has a clear understanding of how elements will be constructed and installed. This can include everything from structural components to detailed mechanical systems. These drawings are crucial for coordinating the work of different trades and for ensuring that the final construction aligns with the project's design intent.

While plans for landscaping, detailed system design drawings, and blueprints for inspections all play important roles in a construction project, they do not convey the same specificity and focus on fabrication and installation as shop drawings do.