Table of Contents
Quick Tip:
Construction specifications contain the "what and how" while drawings show the "where and how much." You need BOTH to create an accurate estimate. Missing spec requirements is the fastest way to lose money on a job.
What Are Construction Specifications?
Construction specifications (often called "specs") are written documents that describe the materials, workmanship, installation methods, quality standards, and performance requirements for a construction project.
While construction drawings show what to build and where to build it, specifications define:
- Materials: Brand names, product types, acceptable manufacturers
- Quality Standards: ASTM standards, performance criteria, testing requirements
- Installation Methods: How materials must be installed, weather limitations
- Workmanship: Acceptable tolerances, finish requirements
- Submittals: What documentation you must provide before installation
- Warranty: Warranty periods and what must be covered
- Administrative: Payment terms, schedule requirements, safety protocols
WARNING:
If there's a conflict between drawings and specifications, the specifications typically take precedence (unless stated otherwise in Division 01). Always read the "Order of Precedence" clause in Division 01.
Understanding CSI MasterFormat
Most construction specifications in North America are organized using the CSI MasterFormat system created by the Construction Specifications Institute. This system divides all construction work into numbered divisions and sections.
The 50 Division System
MasterFormat 2023 includes 50 divisions organized into five major groups:
| Division | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Division 00 | Procurement & Contracting | Bidding requirements, contract forms |
| Division 01 | General Requirements | Project admin, submittals, quality control |
| Division 02 | Existing Conditions | Demolition, asbestos, site prep |
| Division 03 | Concrete | Concrete work, formwork, rebar |
| Division 04 | Masonry | Brick, block, stone |
| Division 05 | Metals | Structural steel, metal fabrications |
| Division 06 | Wood, Plastics, Composites | Framing, millwork, plastic fabrications |
| Division 07 | Thermal & Moisture Protection | ROOFING, waterproofing, insulation |
| Division 08 | Openings | Doors, windows, glazing |
| Division 09 | Finishes | Drywall, flooring, painting, ceiling |
| Division 10-14 | Specialties | Specialties, equipment, furnishings |
| Division 21-29 | Facility Services | Fire protection, plumbing, HVAC, electrical |
| Division 31-35 | Site & Infrastructure | Earthwork, utilities, site improvements |
Division 07 Breakdown (Roofing)
As a roofing estimator, you'll spend most of your time in Division 07. Here's the typical structure:
- 07 01 00 - Operation and Maintenance of Thermal and Moisture Protection
- 07 05 00 - Common Work Results for Thermal and Moisture Protection
- 07 11 00 - Dampproofing
- 07 13 00 - Sheet Waterproofing
- 07 21 00 - Thermal Insulation (roof insulation)
- 07 31 00 - Shingles and Shakes
- 07 41 00 - Roof Panels (metal roofing)
- 07 51 00 - Built-Up Bituminous Roofing
- 07 52 00 - Modified Bituminous Membrane Roofing
- 07 53 00 - Elastomeric Membrane Roofing (EPDM, TPO, PVC)
- 07 54 00 - Thermoplastic Membrane Roofing
- 07 55 00 - Protected Membrane Roofing
- 07 57 00 - Coated Foamed Roofing (spray foam)
- 07 61 00 - Sheet Metal Roofing
- 07 71 00 - Roof Specialties (edge metal, copings, gravel stops)
- 07 72 00 - Roof Accessories (hatches, vents, pipe flashings)
- 07 92 00 - Joint Sealants
The 3-Part Section Format
Every specification section follows a standard three-part format:
Part 1: General
Administrative and procedural requirements:
- Summary: Description of work, related sections
- References: Standards that apply (ASTM, ANSI, etc.)
- Submittals: Product data, samples, warranties, test reports
- Quality Assurance: Manufacturer qualifications, installer certifications
- Delivery, Storage, and Handling: Protection requirements
- Project Conditions: Weather limitations, substrate requirements
- Warranty: Warranty period and coverage
Part 2: Products
What materials and systems are allowed:
- Manufacturers: Approved manufacturers and product lines
- Materials: Specific product requirements, thicknesses, performance
- Accessories: Fasteners, adhesives, primers, sealants
- Mixes/Fabrication: How components should be combined
Pay Attention to "Or Equal" Language:
Specs may say "GAF Liberty SBS or approved equal." This means you can substitute IF you get approval. Don't assume substitutions are allowed without the "or equal" language. Always submit for approval before bidding with alternates.
Part 3: Execution
How the work should be performed:
- Examination: Substrate inspection requirements before you start
- Preparation: Surface prep, cleaning, priming
- Installation: Detailed installation procedures, lap dimensions, fastening patterns
- Field Quality Control: Testing, inspections during installation
- Cleaning and Protection: Final cleanup requirements
- Schedules: Finish schedules, specific product requirements by area
How to Read Specs Efficiently (Step-by-Step)
Don't read specifications cover-to-cover like a novel. Use this systematic approach:
The 7-Step Specification Review Process
Step 1: Read Division 00 (Bidding Requirements)
Look for:
- Bid due date and time
- Pre-bid meeting requirements
- Bid bond requirements
- Approved substitution procedures
- Addenda acknowledgment forms
Step 2: Read Division 01 Thoroughly
This is critical - it affects everything. Look for:
- Summary of work and contract type
- Allowances and unit prices
- Submittal procedures and timing
- Product substitution procedures
- Project meetings and schedules
- Temporary facilities you must provide
- Progress cleaning requirements
- Project closeout requirements
- Warranty requirements (often 2-10 years for roofing)
Step 3: Review Your Division (Division 07 for Roofing)
Read every section that applies to your scope:
- 07 05 00 - Common work results (applies to all roofing)
- Specific roofing sections (07 53 00 for TPO, etc.)
- 07 71 00 - Roof accessories and sheet metal
- 07 92 00 - Sealants
Step 4: Check Related Divisions
Other divisions that affect roofing:
- Division 03 - Concrete (roof deck, curbs)
- Division 05 - Metals (structural supports for equipment)
- Division 23 - HVAC (roof penetrations, curbs you must flash)
- Division 26 - Electrical (conduits, lightning protection)
Step 5: Create a Specification Notes Document
As you read, extract:
- Specific manufacturers and product names
- Thicknesses and material specs
- Fastening requirements (type, spacing)
- Warranty requirements and duration
- Special installation requirements
- Submittal requirements (product data, samples, mock-ups)
Step 6: Highlight Cost Impact Items
Mark anything that increases cost:
- Premium materials vs standard
- Extended warranties
- Mock-up requirements
- Special testing or inspections
- Restricted working hours
- Progress cleaning requirements
Step 7: Cross-Reference Drawings
Verify specs match drawings. If there's a conflict, clarify with architect before bidding.
Key Roofing Specification Sections to Review
Section 07 05 00 - Common Work Results
This section applies to ALL roofing work. Critical items:
- Roof access requirements and protection
- Temporary weather protection during construction
- Coordination with other trades
- Material delivery and storage
- Roof warranty requirements (system vs material)
Section 07 21 00 - Thermal Insulation
Critical for estimating:
- Insulation type (polyiso, EPS, XPS)
- Thickness and R-value requirements
- Number of layers (taper vs flat, cover board)
- Fastening requirements (adhered vs mechanically attached)
- FM approval requirements (affects fastener density)
Section 07 53 00/07 54 00 - Single-Ply Membrane
TPO, PVC, or EPDM specifications include:
- Membrane manufacturer and product line
- Membrane thickness (45 mil, 60 mil, 80 mil)
- Color requirements (white, tan, gray)
- Attachment method (fully adhered, mechanically attached, ballasted)
- Seam type (heat welded, solvent welded, tape)
- Flashings and terminations
- Warranty type (manufacturer standard vs NDL system warranty)
Section 07 71 00 - Roof Specialties
Edge metal, copings, and accessories:
- Metal type and gauge (24ga aluminum, 22ga steel, etc.)
- Finish and color
- Fascia height and profile
- Coping cap profile (snap-on, continuous cleat, etc.)
- Fastening and expansion joint requirements
10 Common Specification Mistakes That Cost You Money
1. Not Reading Division 01
Division 01 contains submittal requirements, testing, warranties, and general conditions that add thousands to your cost. Never skip this division.
2. Assuming "Or Equal" Means Any Product
"Or equal" requires submittal and approval BEFORE you bid. Don't bid with a cheaper product and hope it gets approved. Get approval first.
3. Missing Warranty Duration Requirements
Specs might call for 20-year NDL warranty vs standard 10-year. This dramatically affects material cost and installation requirements.
4. Overlooking Submittal Requirements
Creating submittals costs time and money. Budget for product data compilation, samples, warranties, and testing documentation.
5. Not Checking Referenced Standards
Specs reference ASTM standards, FM approvals, and industry standards. These affect installation requirements and costs.
6. Ignoring Weather Limitation Clauses
"No installation below 40°F" or "No installation in rain" affects your schedule and may require winter protection.
7. Missing Mock-Up Requirements
Some specs require mock-ups for approval before full installation. This costs time and materials.
8. Not Identifying Testing Requirements
Pull tests, flood tests, and core cuts cost $500-2,000 each. Budget for required testing and potential failures.
9. Overlooking Coordination Requirements
You may be required to coordinate with other trades, attend meetings, or provide temporary protection for their work.
10. Missing Final Cleaning and Protection
Specs often require final cleaning, surface protection, and touch-up. Budget labor for this.
Specification Review Checklist
Use this checklist every time you review specifications:
Division 00 - Procurement
- ☐ Bid due date, time, and location
- ☐ Mandatory pre-bid meetings
- ☐ Bid bond requirements (% and amount)
- ☐ Performance and payment bond requirements
- ☐ Insurance requirements (amounts and types)
- ☐ Substitution request procedures
Division 01 - General Requirements
- ☐ Scope of work definition
- ☐ Allowances and unit prices
- ☐ Submittal requirements and timing
- ☐ Project meetings (frequency and duration)
- ☐ Temporary facilities (toilets, storage, power)
- ☐ Safety and security requirements
- ☐ Progress cleaning requirements
- ☐ Warranty duration and coverage
- ☐ Testing and commissioning requirements
Division 07 - Roofing Sections
- ☐ Approved manufacturers and product lines
- ☐ Material specifications (thickness, type, color)
- ☐ Attachment method requirements
- ☐ Insulation type, thickness, and R-value
- ☐ Fastening requirements (type, spacing, pull-out)
- ☐ Warranty type and duration
- ☐ Weather limitations for installation
- ☐ Surface preparation requirements
- ☐ Inspection and testing requirements
- ☐ Flashing and termination details
Cost Impact Items
- ☐ Premium vs standard materials
- ☐ Extended warranties
- ☐ Mock-up requirements
- ☐ Special testing or inspections
- ☐ Restricted working hours/conditions
- ☐ Traffic protection requirements
- ☐ Coordination requirements with other trades
Master Construction Documents
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