Question 1

What structural steel detailing services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Our structural steel detailing services include: 3D BIM Modeling (using Tekla Structures), Shop Drawings (also called shop details), Fabrication/Erection Drawings, Part Lists & Anchor Bolt Plans, Bolt Lists, Weld Lists, Assembly Drawings, and Export of fabrication-ready digital files (e.g., DXF, NC, KSS, IFC).

Question 2

What is the difference between shop drawings and erection drawings?

Accepted Answer

Shop Drawings (a.k.a. shop details) are used by the fabricator to manufacture individual steel components, including beams, columns, braces, stairs, etc.
Erection Drawings (a.k.a. fabrication drawings) are used in the field to guide the proper assembly and installation of the steel structure.

Question 3

What file types can you deliver?

Accepted Answer

We support a wide range of digital outputs, including:
DXF for plate processing and CNC routing
NC1 (NC) files for automated beam and plate drilling
KSS files for material tracking and bolt lists
IFC for coordination with other trades in BIM environments

Question 4

Do you provide 3D modeling services in a BIM environment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We specialize in 3D BIM modeling using Tekla Structures, which enables accurate coordination, clash detection, and streamlined communication with other consultants and trades.

Question 5

Can you coordinate with our engineers or architects?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We regularly coordinate with structural engineers, architects, and connection design professionals to clarify design intent and ensure all detailing aligns with the project requirements.

Additionally, we have in-house structural engineers who can review, approve, and stamp drawings in the following provinces and territories:

Ontario · Manitoba · British Columbia · Yukon · Northwest Territories & Nunavut · Nova Scotia · Newfoundland · New Brunswick · Prince Edward Island.

This allows us to provide a seamless detailing-to-stamping workflow for clients who need both fabrication drawings and professional engineering review under one roof.

Question 6

How do you handle revisions or changes to the design?

Accepted Answer

We maintain a clear revision control process. Any updates provided by the design team are incorporated into the model and drawing package, and we track all changes to ensure accuracy and accountability.

Question 7

What standards do you follow for structural steel detailing?

Accepted Answer

We adhere to industry standards such as CISC, AISC, CSA, and ASTM, depending on the project location and client requirements. Additionally, we can follow specific fabricator standards when provided.

Question 8

How do you deliver completed drawings and files?

Accepted Answer

We deliver all drawings and digital files electronically via email, secure cloud links, or file-sharing platforms like Dropbox or SharePoint, depending on your preference.

Question 9

Do you offer connection design services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide in-house connection design services as part of our detailing workflow. Our structural engineers can design standard and complex steel connections to meet project requirements and applicable codes.

All connection designs are fully integrated into the 3D model and drawing package, and where required, we can provide engineer-stamped calculations and drawings for permit or fabrication purposes in the provinces and territories we’re licensed in.

Question 10

What do you need from us to get started on a project?

Accepted Answer

We typically require:
Issued-for-detailing structural and architectural drawings
Fabricator standards or preferences
Project schedule or key milestone dates
Any special requirements (e.g. custom connections, preferred formats)

Frequently asked questions