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How to make a door window schedule?

Published in Building Documentation 5 mins read

Creating a comprehensive door and window schedule is crucial for any construction project, providing essential details for procurement, fabrication, and installation. This detailed document serves as a central reference point, ensuring accuracy and consistency throughout the building process.

How to Make a Door and Window Schedule

A door and window schedule systematically organizes critical information about every door and window in a building. It's an indispensable tool for architects, contractors, and suppliers, streamlining communication and minimizing errors.

Understanding the Core Components

A well-structured schedule typically comprises three main parts for doors, and similar components apply to windows:

  1. Itemized Schedule: This is the main table listing each individual door or window.
  2. Legend of Door/Window Types: This defines the various standardized door or window assemblies used in the project.
  3. Legend of Frame Types: This specifies the different frame configurations for both doors and windows.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Schedule

Follow these steps to develop a robust door and window schedule:

1. Gather Essential Information

Begin by thoroughly reviewing the architectural drawings and specifications. Identify every door and window opening, noting their unique identifiers (e.g., D1, D2, W1, W2).

  • Door Data: For each door, collect details such as its location, dimensions (width, height, thickness), material, fire rating, hardware requirements, and swing direction. If the door includes a vision panel or view window within the panel, note its size and type.
  • Window Data: For each window, gather information like its location, rough opening dimensions, type (e.g., casement, double-hung, fixed), frame material, glazing type, and any specific thermal or acoustic ratings.

2. Define Door and Window Types

Standardize common door and window configurations to simplify the schedule. Instead of detailing every identical unit, create "types" (e.g., Type A door, Type B window) and refer to them in the itemized schedule.

  • Door Types: A door type definition should include its overall dimensions, material (e.g., solid core wood, hollow metal), panel type, and a description of any integrated elements like vision panels. For instance, a "Type 1 Door" might be a 3'-0" x 7'-0" solid core wood door with a 10"x10" wired glass view window.
  • Window Types: Define window types by their operation, frame material, glazing specifications, and standard dimensions.

3. Establish Frame Specifications

Frames are critical for both doors and windows, influencing installation, security, and aesthetics.

  • Door Frame Types: Detail the material (e.g., hollow metal, wood), profile, fire rating, and specific anchorages for each frame type.
  • Window Frame Types: Specify the material (e.g., aluminum, vinyl, wood), finish, and any unique features like integrated fins or jamb extensions.

4. Structure the Itemized Schedule (The Main Table)

Create a tabular format that lists each individual door and window with its specific attributes. This is often done using a spreadsheet program or directly within CAD/BIM software.

Example Door Schedule Table

Mark Location Type Size (W x H x T) Frame Type Panel Type Material Rating Hardware Set Remarks
D-1 Office A A 3'-0" x 7'-0" x 1-3/4" HM-1 Solid Core Wood 20 Min HW-1 Privacy Lock
D-2 Corridor B 3'-6" x 7'-0" x 1-3/4" HM-2 View Window Steel 60 Min HW-2 Double-acting
D-3 Restroom C 2'-8" x 7'-0" x 1-3/8" WC-1 Hollow Core Wood - HW-3 Lever Handle

Example Window Schedule Table

Mark Location Type Rough Opening (W x H) Frame Type Glazing Type Operation U-Value Remarks
W-1 Office A X 4'-0" x 3'-6" AL-1 Double Low-E Casement 0.30 Clear
W-2 Lobby Y 6'-0" x 8'-0" SF-1 Triple Glazed Fixed 0.25 Laminated
W-3 Storeroom Z 2'-0" x 2'-0" VN-1 Single Pane Fixed 0.50 Frosted

5. Integrate Legends and Notes

Ensure that your schedule clearly references the door/window type and frame type legends. Add any general notes or specific instructions that apply to the entire schedule.

  • Door Type Legend Example:
    • Type A: 3'-0" x 7'-0" x 1-3/4" Solid Core Wood Door, Birch Veneer, No Vision Panel.
    • Type B: 3'-6" x 7'-0" x 1-3/4" Hollow Metal Door, Steel, 10" x 10" Fire-Rated View Window.
  • Window Type Legend Example:
    • Type X: Aluminum Frame Casement Window, Clear Double Low-E Glazing.
    • Type Y: Storefront System, Clear Triple Laminated Glazing.
  • Frame Type Legend Example:
    • HM-1: Hollow Metal Frame, 16 Ga. Steel, Welded Corners, Primed Finish.
    • WC-1: Wood Casing Frame, Solid Oak, Natural Finish.
    • AL-1: Aluminum Frame, Thermally Broken, Clear Anodized Finish.

6. Review and Coordinate

Thoroughly review the schedule against the drawings and specifications. Coordinate with other disciplines (e.g., structural, mechanical, electrical) to ensure there are no conflicts, especially regarding fire ratings, hardware, and clearances. Always cross-reference door and window marks on the floor plans with the schedule entries.

Best Practices for Effective Scheduling

  • Consistency is Key: Use consistent terminology, abbreviations, and numbering systems throughout your project documentation.
  • Clarity and Simplicity: Avoid overly complex tables. If a detail is unique to one item, use the "Remarks" column. If it's common, add it to the type legend.
  • Utilize Software: Modern CAD and BIM software (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Graphisoft Archicad) can generate schedules directly from your model, significantly improving accuracy and efficiency.
  • Include Hardware Sets: For doors, define specific hardware sets (e.g., locksets, hinges, closers) and reference them in the schedule. A separate hardware schedule may also be required for detailed specifications.
  • Accessibility Standards: Ensure all doors and windows meet ADA compliance or local accessibility requirements.
  • Environmental Factors: Consider thermal performance, acoustics, and natural light when specifying windows and doors.

By meticulously following these guidelines, you can create a clear, accurate, and highly functional door and window schedule that supports a smooth construction process.