Building Design
T E C H N I C A L D O C U M E N TAT I O N
Introduction
Specification for a building
project are written
descriptions, and the
drawings are a diagrammatic
presentation of the
construction work required
for that project.
Content of Specification
Contractors study specification to determine the details or materials required,
sequence of work, quality of workmanship, and appearance of the product.
Good specifications expand or clarify drawing notes, define quality of materials and
workmanship, establish the scope of work , and describe the responsibilities of the
contractor.
The technical specifications cover the major type of work, architectural, civil,
structural, mechanical and electrical
Standard forms for technical
specification can be obtained from
the Construction Specification
Institute (CSI).
Following is the division format
developed by CSI:
1. General Requirements
10. Specialties
2. Site Works
11. Equipment
3. Concrete
12. Furnishings
4. Masonry
13. Special Construction
5. Metals
14. Conveying Systems
6. Woods and Plastics
15. Mechanical
7. Thermal and Moisture
Protection 16. electrical
8. Doors and Windows
9. Finishes
Good specifications contains as few words as necessary to
describe the materials and the work.
The term “shall” should be used when specifying the
contractor’s duties and responsibilities under the contract.
The term “will” should be used to specify the client’s or
architect’s responsibilities.
Descriptive Specifications – Describes the
components of a product and how they are
assembled.
Reference Specifications – These employ
standards of recognized authorities to specify
Type of quality.
Proprietary Specifications – Specify materials,
Specifications equipment, and other products by trade name,
model number, and manufacturer.
Base-bid Specifications – Establish acceptable
materials and equipment by naming one or
more manufacturers and fabricators.
Upfront Documents
Bidding Requirements – Explains the
procedures bidders are to follow in preparing
and submitting their bid.
Contracts Forms – The agreement is the
written document, signed by the client and
contractor.
Contract Conditions – These define the rights,
responsibilities and relationships of the various
parties involved in the construction process.
Bidding and Contract Award
Competitive bidding is one method of determining the least
cost for performing work by the construction documents.
The bid states the price that the bidder will contract for to
perform the work described in the bidding documents.
Before bids may be received, prospective bidders need to be
identified and made aware of the project.
After client approval of the construction documents and
selection of a construction bidding method, the architect may
assist in the selection of contractors to bid the work.
Role of Architect or Engineer
During Construction
After the award of the construction contract, the architect or engineer
generally continues to assist the client in relation with the contractor.
Site Observation
Architect and engineers may make periodic site visits or maintain full-
time representation on site during a portion or all construction period.
Site Record Keeping
Contractor documents, shop drawings, change orders, field meeting
minutes, and schedules are used continually during the construction.
Inspection and Testing
Technical specifications require testing and inspection of various
materials and building systems during the construction to verify that
the intent of the design and construction documents is being fulfilled
under field conditions.
Payment Request
The contractor normally submits a consolidated payment request
monthly to the architect and client for review and certification.
Change Orders
A change order is the instrument for amending the original contract
amount and schedule. It outlines the nature of change and the effect,
if any, on the contract amount and construction schedule.
Project Closeout
The normal project closeout proceed as follows:
1. the contractor formally notifies the architect and the client that the
contracted work is substantially complete.
2. The architect documents substantial completion with the client and
contractor.
3. On-site visits are made, and a final punchlist is developed by the
architect to document items requiring remedial work or replacement.
4. The contractor should submit all record drawings, as-builts, testing
and balancing reports.
5. The contractor should submit all required guarantees and
warranties by the general contract.
6. the contractor corrects all work noted on the punchlist.
7. If the client accepts the work, the architect sends a certificate of
completion to the contractor.
8. The contractor submit final waivers from each subcontractor or
material supplier.
9. The architect sends a final certificate of payment to the client,
10. The contractor provides any required certificate of occupancy,
indicating that the building authorities have jurisdiction over the project .
11. The client makes final payment to the contractor and notifies the
architect of this.
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Building Design and Building Construction
Construction Handbook – Illustrated – Ching, Adams
Muyac
References
