As the data requirements on construction projects become more complex it’s crucial that everyone in the value chain operates with the same set of project requirements. These are defined by the project specification documents which serve as the field guide for the wall and ceiling subcontractor by identifying the materials, installation methods, and level of quality needed to complete the project. Specifications that are clear, accurate, and detailed will go a long way toward cutting time spent on requests for clarification, fewer change orders, and help avoid cost overruns.
Unfortunately, we find that many architectural specifications are out of date and contain inaccuracies that can add up to big direct and indirect costs. This is especially true for cold-formed steel framing specifications, primarily due to evolving American Iron and Steel Institute standards and how the latest model building code references those standards.