Measure your space before you plan

The measurements that change a draft, and how to take them.

Inside and outside sizes

Measure the space it goes in and the way it gets there: doors, gates, stairs, turns and ceiling height.

Weight limits

Floors, decks, trailers, roofs and vehicles all have load limits. Find the number before you choose materials.

Power and water

Where the nearest outlet, panel, water and drain are, and what they can supply.

Clearances

Space to open doors, walk around, service parts and keep heat away from things that burn.

Take photos with a tape in view

Attach them to your message so the draft uses your real sizes.

Write them in one sentence

"Fits a 9 by 12 foot space with a 7-foot ceiling and a 36-inch door" is enough to steer the draft.

Concept drafts are for planning, budgeting and talking to professionals. They are not engineering or build plans. Have a qualified professional check any design before you build or use it.