BT4: SPECIFICATIONS & SPECS WRITING PT. 3

performance

[types of specifications] A specification that stipulates how a particular component or system must perform without giving the means to be employed to achieve the results.

descriptive

[types of specifications] A specification that stipulates the exact quantities and qualities or properties of materials to be

furnished and how they are to be assembled or installed in a consu·uction.

reference

[types of specifications] A specification that refers to a standard specification to indicate the properties desired in

a material or component and the methods of testing required to substantiate the performance of products:

a standardized mandatory language document prescribing materials, dimensions and workmanship, incorporated by reference in the comract documents with information in the madatory requirements checklist;

propietary

[types of specifications] A specification that stipu lates the use of specific products, systems, or processes without provision for substitution

brand name

[types of specifications] A type of specification where the desired product is specified by the name given by the manufacturer or by the manufacturer's name and model number.

closed

[types of specifications] there are two (2) types of this type of specification namely: the single product and the multi -producl specification.

are generally brand name specifications. This is used basica lly where material is required 10 match exjs1ing malerial in terms of quality, type and performance.

open

[types of specifications] all manufacturers whose product meet performance or description specified may qualify tobid. All performance and descriptive specifications are open.

combination

[types of specifications] may be a combination of performance. descriptive and reference specifications but never a combination of open and closed specification.

method

[types of specifications] is employed when the specifier

describes in detail the materials, workmanship, installation, and erection procedures to be used by the contracmr in the conduct of their work operations in order to achieve lhe result expected.

Clear, Correct, Concise

3 C's for specification

requirements

A golden rule of specification writing is to state only _______; do not provide reasons

imperative

[specification language] is the recommended method for instructions covering installalion of products and equipment. The verb that clearly defines the action becomes the first word of the sentence.

indicative

[specification language] The traditional language of specification sentences is the ind icative mode, passive voice. This requires the use of the word shall in nearly every statement. This senreoce structure can cause unnecessary wordiness and monotony.

Shall

[specification language] When used in a specification, the word shall is used with reference to the work required to be done by a contractor or supplier.

will

[specification language] is used in connection with acls and actions required of the owner or of the architect/ engineer.

Work

The entire construction or separately identifiable parts thereof required to be furnished under the contract documents.

Construction

All on-site work done from site preparation, excavation. foundation, assembly of all the components and installation of utilities and equipmenl of buildings/ structures.

erection

Installation in place of components of a building/ structure.

addition

Any new construction which increases the height or area of an existing building/ structure

alteration

Construction in a building/ structure involving changes in tbe materials used, partitioning, location/ size of openings. structural parts. existing utilities and equipment bm does not increase the over-all area thereof.

renovation

Any physical change made on a building/ structure to increase irs value, utility and/or to improve its aesthetic quality.

conversion

A change in the use or occupancy of a building/ structure or any portion/s thereof which has different requirements.

repair

Remedial work done on any damaged or deteriorated portion/s of a building/ structure to restore its original condition

moving

The transfer of any building/ structure or portions/s thereof from its original loca1ion or position to another, either within the same lot or to a different one.

demolition

The systematic dismantling or destruction of a building/ structure, in whole or in part.