How to read signage and wayfinding drawings
Signage drawings (typically S-series or SN-series) show the locations and specifications for every code-required, wayfinding, and identification sign on the project. Reading them requires understanding sign types, schedules, and ADA mounting criteria.
The Quick Answer
Signage drawings include three parts: a sign location plan showing every sign in the building tagged with a type and number, a sign type schedule defining each type (size, material, copy, graphics), and mounting details showing how each type is attached and located. Code-required signs (exits, room IDs, accessible routes) follow ADA mounting requirements (usually 48" to 60" AFF to baseline of highest text line).
Signage is a frequent AHJ punch list item because it's installed late, specified by a specialty signage vendor (not the GC), and tied to an ADA compliance standard that hasn't changed but is frequently overlooked. Reading the drawings accurately closes this gap early.
Sign Type Categories
- Type 1, Building Identification: Exterior monument signs, building addresses, major tenant signs
- Type 2, Interior Wayfinding: Directional signs, directory, floor plaques
- Type 3, Room Identification: Room numbers and names (ADA-compliant with tactile/Braille)
- Type 4, Regulatory: Exit signs, evacuation plans, restroom symbols, occupancy limits
- Type 5, Tenant: Suite signs, storefront signs, blade signs
- Type 6, Temporary: Construction phase, change of address, temporary occupancy
ADA Signage Requirements (ADAAG 703)
Room identification signs must meet ADA tactile and visual standards:
- Character height: 5/8" to 2" uppercase, sans-serif, medium weight
- Raised characters: 1/32" minimum raised above background
- Grade 2 Braille directly below raised characters, 3/8" separation
- Non-glare finish; characters and background must have 70% light reflectance contrast
- Mounting: 48" minimum to 60" maximum above finished floor to the baseline of the highest line of text
- Location: latch side of door, or nearest adjacent wall if latch side unavailable
Cross-reference the ADA accessibility guide for related route and clearance requirements.
Exit and Life Safety Signs (IBC/NFPA)
- EXIT signs per IBC 1013 with internal or external illumination, 90-minute battery backup
- Directional exit signs where the path is not obvious
- No-exit signs at dead-end doors that could be mistaken for exits
- Evacuation floor plans per NFPA 101 in healthcare, hotel, and dormitory
- Area of refuge signage and two-way communication signs (where provided)
Sign Location Plan Callouts
Sign locations are typically tagged with a type code and sequence number (e.g., 3A-01, 3A-02 for Type 3 Series A signs). The callout should reference the mounting detail:
- Sign type from the schedule
- Room number or copy content
- Mounting height (typical note or specific callout)
- Wall surface type (for mechanical anchoring coordination)
Common Review Errors
- Missing room ID on a room that requires ADA signage (all rooms that are permanent, not closets, stairwells, etc.)
- Mounting detail places sign in a door swing or outside 48" to 60" ADA range
- Exit sign locations don't match the egress plan
- Raised character and Braille note missing from tactile sign type spec
- Signs on glass doors without background frosting (Braille unreadable)
- Tenant signs not coordinated with the building signage standard
Keep exploring
Related references and guides for signage and wayfinding.
Tactile and visual sign requirements
Exit signs and life-safety signage
Where exit signage is required
Sign callouts and conventions
Where signage drawings fit
Signage at door latch side coordination