Interpreting floor plans: On a residential floor plan, a dashed line drawn approximately 24 inches outside the exterior wall typically indicates which feature?

Introduction / Context:
Floor plans use line types to show features that are above the cut plane or beyond the main walls. Understanding these conventions helps readers visualize items like eaves that extend past exterior walls.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A dashed line appears about 24 inches (approximately 600 mm) outside an exterior wall.
• The drawing is a typical residential floor plan.
• The feature is likely overhead or projecting beyond the wall face.

Concept / Approach:

Most homes have roof eaves that project beyond exterior walls. On plans, these eaves (roof overhangs) are often shown with dashed lines to indicate an element above the plan cut, offset from the wall by the overhang distance (frequently around 18–30 inches depending on design).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Architectural graphics standards show eaves with dashed projection lines in plan view to indicate edges beyond the cut plane.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Sidewalk: Usually shown on site plans, not as a dashed overhead line on floor plans.

Plumbing drain lines: Typically shown as diagrammatic lines inside the building or on MEP plans, not as dashed lines outside.

None of the above: Incorrect because eaves are the standard interpretation.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing dashed overhead roof edges with property or setback lines; those appear on site plans with distinct linetypes and tags.

Final Answer:

roof overhang