All projects require specifications, and most architects are very familiar with these! But just to recap: a specification is a legal document explaining the project requirements for materials and workmanship for a construction project. It provides the "what," "how," and “quality" aspects for the project. In case of conflict, the specifications often take precedence over the drawings, so they’re pretty important!
What is the 3-Part Spec?
Developed by the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI), the 3-part spec provides a clear organizational system for describing materials, performance criteria, and execution methods.
Here is an overview of the format for each part:
Part 1: General
This section addresses administrative and procedural requirements. It outlines the scope of work, includes refences to relevant standards (such as ASTM and ANSI), submittal instructions (including samples, shop drawings and test reports), warranty information, quality assurance provisions and project conditions.
Part 2: Products
This section defines the materials and products to be used. It includes specific product names and manufacturers – which may be most significant for EPRO. You will also find material standards and requirements, performance characteristics of these materials, and criteria for acceptable alternatives, if any exist.
Part 3: Execution
This section describes how the work is to be performed. Typical content includes examination and preparation of substrates, installation and repair procedures, and cleaning and protection.
Different types of spec
Unsurprisingly, there is more than one type of spec. Here are the three common types:
- Proprietary Specifications Names a specific product and does not allow substitutions.
- Performance Specifications Defines minimum performance requirements but leave‘s the door open for various manufacturer’s to provide products that meet the minimum performance requirements outlined in the spec. .
- Basis of Design Specifications The most common spec which identifies a preferred system (such as EPRO) but allows for equivalent alternatives. This option balances proprietary sourcing and performance.
To support the spec writer’s important work, we’ve made our specification resources easy to access through our website. They are regularly updated to reflect current standards and product data. These guide specs make it easy to incorporate EPRO systems into an architect’s basis of design three-part CSI spec.
With the right spec in place, teams can reduce uncertainty, and ensure their projects are built with systems that meet demanding performance requirements — from the ground up.