What are construction abbreviations?
The construction industry uses hundreds of abbreviations to communicate quickly and clearly on drawings, specifications and on site. Knowing these abbreviations is essential for anyone who works with building plans or construction documents.
Common abbreviations
Dimensions and levels
- c/c — centre to centre (spacing between axes)
- FFL — finished floor level
- SSL — structural slab level
- TOS — top of steel
- BOS — bottom of steel
- CL — centre line
- NGL — natural ground level
Materials and construction
- RC — reinforced concrete
- SHS — square hollow section
- RHS — rectangular hollow section
- DPC — damp-proof course
- DPM — damp-proof membrane
- OSB — oriented strand board
- GRP — glass-reinforced plastic
Regulations and standards
- BS — British Standard
- NHBC — National House-Building Council
- CDM — Construction (Design and Management) Regulations
- BREEAM — Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method
Applications
- Construction drawings — abbreviations keep plans clear and readable
- Specifications — technical descriptions use standardised codes
- Site communication — quick, unambiguous discussions on the building site
- Quotations — in cost estimates and work descriptions
Related terms
- Building specification
- Construction drawing
- Centre to centre
- Building regulations
- Bill of quantities
Want to learn more about construction terms? Visit our knowledge base at fredsdiyplans.com.