In architecture and engineering, a section view drawing can help us better understand the construction of a building or object.


For builders and contractors, a section view drawing is a really important reference. It helps them understand the project and the foundations that the building needs.


Let’s take a closer look at the section view and answer the question, “What are section views?” Plus, we’ll examine the different types of section views and their purposes. Let’s dive right in!

What are section views?

When defining a section view, comparing it to a floor plan can be helpful.


A floor plan is a drawing of a building layout, as seen from above. It’s like we’ve removed the roof and are looking down on the building.


A section view looks at a building from the side. Imagine we’ve sliced away an external wall. Now, we can see how the different spaces within the building relate to each other vertically.


A section view drawing helps builders complete a job more efficiently. They help builders understand how a building fits together and the order in which tasks need to be completed. This makes it easier to break the project down into smaller tasks. 

Different types of section views

When creating your own section view or looking at a section view drawing, you may come across a number of different types of section views. Here we define each type of section view. 

Full sections

The full section view shows what the entire object will look like when a line passes through it.

The imaginary line shows you the objects coming in contact with the cutting plane. Dotted lines show you what half of the item will look like after being cut. 

Half sections

A half-section view typically shows the same part of an object but from two different angles. The cutting plane line cuts away half of the item, and a quarter of that half is removed. This allows you to see both the interior and exterior of the building or object.


Half-section views are generally used for symmetrical objects. You have to use a centerline to differentiate between the two types of configurations.

Offset sections

Offset section views serve another purpose. The cutting plane line is bent to show features that are not in line with each other.

Offset section views are useful because they allow builders and architects to see the internal part of a section at a different angle, not just on a straight line.

Broken-out sections

Different types of section views: a section view drawing showing an offset cutting plane

Sometimes, you don’t need to see the whole interior to understand what work needs to be done. Broken-out sections show a small portion of a building or object's interior without using a cutting plane line.


Using this type of section view gives the builder a good look at the interior’s key features. If other types of section views are too broad in scope, this can help focus attention on what matters. 

Revolved sections

Another type of section view is called a revolved section. It shows a tiny part of a drawing. An object is imagined to be rotated 90 degrees to face the viewer.


This section view lets us see how a particular area would look if it crossed another section. It can be helpful to see what problems could occur if a part was on a different axis.

Removed sections

The last type of section view is called a removed section. As the name suggests, a small piece of the drawing is removed from view in a removed section.


Removing this piece from the overall drawing allows you to view a part in greater detail. This type of section view allows an architect or builder to view that part in a way they previously could not.

Other drawings you need when building a house

The section view is an important part of the house planning and building process. But it’s not the only drawing you need. We’ve already talked about floor plans. And here at My Site Plan, we help home builders with site plans.


Whether you’re building your own home or running a building business, My Site Plan can create a site plan tailored to your needs. Here’s how the process works:

  • You share building information and any additional documents that may be needed, such as drawings, permits, or deeds.

  • A designer is assigned to your order. They’ll draw a design to match your specifications.

  • AutoCAD, a professional computer drafting software, helps us ensure there are no problems with building requirements.

  • Finally, your site plan is delivered to you via email in PDF format.

  • If you examine your floor plan and see something that needs to be changed, My Site Plan will do so free of charge. 

an architectural drawing showing the section view of a building

Our team can also produce other drawings and resources for your building projects, such as 3-D drawings, budgets, and marketing plans and support you at every step of the way.


Looking to get started on a building project this year? Visit My Site Plan for more information! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are section views?

Section views are a type of drawing that shows a building from the side. It’s as if a section of the house has been sliced away to reveal the interior. 

What are the six types of section views?

There are six different types of section views. These are:

  • Full sections

  • Half sections

  • Offset sections

  • Broken-out sections

  • Revolved sections

  • Removed sections

Why are section views used in drawing?

Section views are used in drawing for a variety of different reasons, including:

  • They help show the details of a building’s interior clearly

  • They help architects create accurate dimensions

  • They show builders what materials and finishes to use

  • They show builders how different components fit together 

What is the advantage of using offset section views over full or half sections in architectural projects?

Offset section views are helpful in architectural projects because they show interior features that are not aligned on a single plane. This provides a clearer understanding of complex areas where different elements intersect.

How do removed section views enhance the study of building components?

Removed section views enhance the study of building components by isolating a specific design section. This isolation helps architects and builders focus on fine details without the distraction of other parts of the structure.

In what scenarios are broken-out sections most useful, and why might they be preferred over other section views?

Broken-out sections are most useful in scenarios where only a specific part of an object's interior needs to be studied. They are preferred over other section views when the full interior is unnecessary because they simplify the visual information and allow builders to focus on key features.

How does My Site Plan ensure accuracy in their site plans using AutoCAD?

My Site Plan uses AutoCAD, a professional drafting software, to ensure that all site plans accurately meet building requirements. AutoCAD helps us create detailed, precise drawings that adhere to the necessary specifications and regulations.

What additional services does My Site Plan offer beyond creating site plans?

Beyond site plans, My Site Plan offers services like 3-D visualizations of ongoing projects, marketing plans for business ventures, and custom quotes for construction projects. 

This post was originally published on 2021-04-05, by Ryan Crownholm. It was updated on 2024-05-17 to reflect the most recent data.

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