What to Include in a Shop Drawing Request for Metalwork

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A shop drawing request for metalwork should describe the element clearly: its location, measured dimensions, material and finish, structural or load requirements, and how it connects to the building. Attach photos, site measurements and your design intent so the fabricator can prepare accurate drawings for your approval before production begins.

Start with the location and purpose of the element

Begin by stating exactly where the metalwork goes and what it has to do. A railing on a terrace, a gate at a building entrance and a steel stair inside a showroom have very different requirements. Name the floor, the wall or opening, and whether the element is decorative, protective, structural or all three.

Describe the use as well. A handrail that people lean on, a gate that opens onto a public path and a partition in a shop each carry different demands that the fabricator needs to know early.

Provide measurements and site conditions

Dimensions are the core of any request. Include overall width, height and depth, opening sizes, and any fixed points such as slab edges, column faces or wall thicknesses. Mark whether dimensions were taken on site or taken from the architectural drawings, since these can differ.

Site-measured openings with tolerances noted
Floor or slab levels and any slopes
Existing elements the new work must fit around

Photos with a short written note on each one help considerably.

Specify material, profile and finish

State the base material, such as iron, aluminum, glass or stainless steel, and the profile or section you have in mind. If you want a particular look, such as a Belgian steel-look profile, say so in the request rather than leaving it to interpretation.

Finish matters as much as material. Indicate whether the element should be hot-dip galvanized, powder coated, polished or left natural, and give the colour reference where relevant. Finish affects both appearance and how the piece performs outdoors.

Describe loads, safety and code requirements

If the element will carry people, equipment or wind loads, say so. Railings, balustrades and glass infill all have safety requirements, and the Israeli railing standard SI 1142 is a useful reference point. Exact values should be confirmed with the structural or safety engineer on your project rather than assumed from memory.

Mention any fire, accessibility or access-control requirements, such as an emergency exit gate or a parking barrier that must integrate with other systems.

Explain connections, interfaces and installation

Metalwork rarely stands alone. Describe how the piece fixes to the structure: anchors into concrete, welded plates, frames set into masonry, or connections to glazing. Note who is responsible for each interface, whether the fabricator, the general contractor or another trade.

Flag sequencing issues too. If the metalwork must be fixed before tiling or before the facade finish goes on, the drawing schedule needs to reflect that.

Set the approval and timing expectations

Ask for shop drawings to be submitted for your written approval before fabrication begins, and state the review period you need within your programme. Clarify which revisions are included and how changes after approval will be handled.

Finally, include your contact details, the project name and the names of the people who should receive the drawings, so the review loop runs smoothly from inquiry through to installation.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to send a full architectural set with my request?

Not always. Relevant sheets, sections and details showing the metalwork are usually enough. A short site photo set and clear measurements often help more than a full package.

Should I give dimensions as drawn or as measured on site?

Give both where possible and say which is which. Site measurements are more reliable for fitting, while drawn dimensions show design intent.

What if I have not chosen the finish yet?

Say so in the request and list the options you are considering. The fabricator can then advise on how each finish performs and what it means for the program.

Who approves the shop drawings before production?

Usually the architect or designer, with the engineer where structural or safety items are involved. The approval should be in writing before fabrication starts.

Common mistakes to avoid

Sending only a sketch without measurements or finish details is the most common error, and it leads to revisions that cost time. Leaving out the loads or the connection method also causes delays once the fabricator discovers the gap.

Our recommendation

Put every requirement in one written request and attach photos and measurements, so the fabricator's first drawing is close to what you need. Reserve time in your schedule for one review round before production starts.

Summary

A good shop drawing request covers location, measurements, material and finish, loads and standards, connections, and the approval process. Complete information at the start saves revisions and keeps your project on track.

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