Importance and Application of Specifications in Residential Construction

2. Chapter 34 Specifications

3. Objectives • Explain the purpose of specifications. • List the sources of specification standards. • Use a Description of Materials form.

4. Introduction • Specifications: written documents that supplement drawings in set of architectural plans • Architect is responsible for preparation of specifications for residential structures

5. Introduction • Working drawings and specifications become part of total contract between builder and client • Legal and binding on both parties • Prepare carefully to prevent misunderstandings between contractor and client

6. Purpose of Specifications • Provide material and process information that will not fit on drawings or cannot be communicated on drawings • Client is responsible for explaining exactly what is desired • Specifications seek agreement between contractor and owner as to what is acceptable quality • Subcontractors must meet these standards

7. Employability • Professional behavior • Is expected on the job • Show respect for all • Limit personal items to break time or lunch • Act courteously • Arrive on time, do not leave early • Never raise your voice

8. Master Specifications • Master specifications • Documents developed by reputable organizations • Complete sets of specifications for use and adaptation by individual architectural companies • Firms choose specifications that apply to project and delete or ignore remaining items

9. American Institute of Architects • American Institute of Architects (AIA) MasterSpec system widely used • MasterSpec is master list on which architectural firms build their own standards • Contains numbered divisions that address every part of building construction • Numbered divisions based on divisions in MasterFormat system by Construction Specifications Institute (CSI)

10. AIA MasterSpec Divisions

11. Department of Veterans Affairs • VHA Master Specifications published by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) • Includes numbered divisions based on MasterFormat standard • Not as extensive as AIA MasterSpec system • VA also provides shorter form, Description of Materials

12. Department of Veterans Affairs • First page of VA Description of Materials.

13. Completeness and Accuracy • Specific, detailed specifications allow contractors to build accurately • Specifications may consist of booklet more than an inch thick • Each topic on standard forms should be discussed so all parties understand and agree to content

14. Completeness and Accuracy • Specifications should include: • Description of the materials to be used • List of required building operations • Notes relative to cash allowances for items to be selected by client • Any environmental standards or requirements to meet

15. Completeness and Accuracy • Specifications should include: • Indication that specifications refer to detailed plans of working drawings • Statement or agreement on quality of tradeworker’s skill • Liability covered by contractor during construction

16. Specifications • Portion of a set of specifications.

17. Architecture Green • Specifications for green homes • Leading master specifications now include LEED building standards • No “one size fits all” solution for sustainability • Architect is responsible for staying up-to-date with newest sustainable materials and practices