SPECIFICATION WRITING

Fundamentals of Structure, Language

and Writing
ARCH 30293 BUILDING TECHNOLOGY 4
Prepared by:
Ar. Maynard M. Muhi,uap,mscm
Learning Objectives:

At the end of module you should be able to:

 Understand the types of construction specification.

 Understand the different division and the framework of
divisions, section numbers, section titles and a
standardized outline format.
 Understand how to prepare the three part format.
SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications
A specifications is a detailed description of the dimensions,
construction, workmanship, materials etc., of work done or to be done
on a project, prepared by an architect, engineer or designer, often
referred to as specifiers.

Specifications define the requirements for products, materials and

workmanship upon which the contract is based and the requirements
for administration and performance of the project. They are written to
achieve a Work Result.
Specifications is a document that
describes in words that cannot be
visualised or explained on a
drawing or model.
 Drawing
DRAWINGS/PLANS
The drawings are graphic
representations of the work upon
which the contract is based. As
the graphic documents usually
contain more than plan views,
the preferred term is Drawings
rather than Plans.

SPECIFICATIONS
The Relationship Between Specifications and
Drawings - Differences
 Drawings  Specifications
 Graphically show the components  Provides the component
in relation to the rest of the building specifications of performance, size,
and surrounding components. weight
 Graphically show a symbol  Provides component labeling and
representing a component not testing requirements
drawn to scale.  Identifies the Contractor
 Provides dimensions for the qualifications to install the
component placement. components.
 Annotations specific to the  Provides direction to the contractor in
component placement. Such as the execution of construction to get a
“Coordinate the fire pull station common work result. It should not
with the fire extinguisher mounted repeat manufacturers or Code
adjacent to the door.” requirements.
The Relationship Between Specifications
and Drawings - Similarities
 Drawings & Specifications
 Part of the “Contract” between the Owner and
the Contractor
 Use the same contract language, and terms.
 They work together and cannot be used or
developed separately.
 Engineers and Architects that write the
specifications need access to the drawings.
 Designers and Drafters that create the drawings
need access to the specifications.
 Specs do not supersede drawings. Drawings do
not supersede specs. If they contradict each
other, it is a design error.
Specifications
Document
Specifications are one of the
basic components that make up
the contract agreement between
the Owner and the Contractor.
15 Reasons why specifications are still important
1. It provides clear instructions on the intent, performance and
construction of the project.
2. It can reference the quality and standards which should be applied.
3. Materials and manufacturers’ products can be clearly defined.
4. The requirements for installation, testing and handover can be identified.
5. Classification in the specification can be used to support handover and
running of the asset.
6. The drawing or model does not need to be overloaded with detailed
information, which can sometimes be difficult to identify.
7. The specification forms part of the contractual documents, along with the
drawings, and therefore can help minimise project risk and provide support
should there be any legal disputes.
8. It can be used to support the costing of a project: not only the materials
and products but also the performance and workmanship.
9. It supports the interpretation of the client brief and gives the client
assurance that the asset which they commissioned is being delivered.
10. It is not only essential for the construction phase but also used as part of
the soft landing process, subsequent asset management and the lifecycle
plan.
11. By being clear and concise and containing all the information, it saves
the project team, the client and the contractor time and money by
providing answers to many of the on-site construction questions.
12. There is the option for the design team to build a suite of office masters,
which would improve efficiency, provide quality assurance and project
consistency.
13. Office masters can save the team time and money by being developed
over a period of time and then being adapted to suit the project specifics,
therefore drawing on specialist knowledge when needed.
14. The specification should be used by all the project team throughout the
construction phase; it should be a living document and not stop being
used at the design phase.
15. The specification and any variations or value engineering can also be
used for the project audit trail and should form part of the handover
documents. It will then form the basis for the running of the asset by the
asset management team.
 Four Types of Specifications
1. Performance Specification
- is a document that specifies the operational requirements of a
component or installation. Simply put, a performance
specification tells the contractor what the final installed product
must be capable of doing. The contractor is not instructed as to
how to accomplish the task of meeting the performance
specification requirements - only as to how the component must
function after installation.
Example of Performance Specification
Concrete Cylinder
A requirement of 20,684 kPa (3000 Specimen
psi) concrete strength is a
performance specification Concrete Cylinder
Specimen
2. Descriptive Specifications
- convey the requirements of a
project through a detailed
explanation of the materials that
the contractor must use, and the
meansBUILDING
of TECHNOLOGY
installing those
4
materials. This type of A concrete mix of four-part coarse
specification will typically be aggregate, two-part fine aggregate, and
formatted in a manner similar to one-part cement with a 0.5 water-cement
the following sections: ratio is a descriptive specification.
 Proprietary specifications identify the desired
3. Proprietary specifications products by manufacturer’s name, brand
- are those that require the use of a single name, model number, type designation, or
approved product type for any particular other unique characteristics.
installation. Proprietary specifications are
often used in cases where there is existing
equipment or installations already on site. In
these cases, the owner may want to maintain
consistency of materials
BUILDING or possibly 4
TECHNOLOGY simply
prefers a specific type of product. Also, in
highly complex installations where there is
only one specific piece of equipment that will
accomplish a specified task, a proprietary
specification is required.
 Basic materials standards such as American Society for
Testing and Materials
4. Reference standard
 (ASTM) B 211, Standard Specifications for Aluminum and specification
Aluminum-Alloy Bar, Rod, and Wire
 Product standards such as Engineered Wood Association
- uses recognized industry standards
(APA) APA PS-1, Construction and Industrial Plywood rather than individually written product or
 Design standards such as American Concrete Institute installation criteria. Standards must be
International (ACI) ACI 318, Building Code Requirements for
Structural Concrete reviewed carefully to avoid duplications,
 Workmanship standards such as ASTM E 2112, Standard optional requirements, and
Practice for Installation of Exterior Windows, Doors and contradictions.
Skylights
 ASSESSMENT: What type of Specification?

Material:

Aggregates:
a. Descriptive
Coarse Aggregates: Coarse b. Performance
aggregate shall conform to the
c. Proprietary
provisions of ASTM C33. Aggregate
shall be crushed aggregate or angular d. Reference standard
screened natural aggregate.
Hydraulic - cement aggregate is
unacceptable
Answer:

a.Descriptive
How to Write Construction Specifications for Contract
Documents?
For writing specifications for construction contracts, care
must be taken to ensure consistency of requirements
throughout and conformity with what is written in other
documents.
This consistency can be promoted if one person drafts all
BUILDING TECHNOLOGY 4
the documents or, if parts are written by others, one person
carefully reads through the whole finished set of
documents. An inconsistency in the documents can give
rise to a major dispute under the contract, having a serious
effect onARCH
its financial
30293 outcome.
 Specifications
Writing
1. SPECIFICATION LANGUAGE
As legally enforceable contract documents, construction specifications should
be prepared with concern and respect for their legal status.

The four Cs for effective communication are:

a. Clear - Use proper grammar and simple sentence construction to avoid ambiguity.
b. Concise - Eliminate unnecessary words, but not at the expense of clarity, correctness,
or completeness.
c. Correct - Present information accurately and precisely. Carefully select words that
convey exact meanings.
d. Complete - Do not leave out important information.
2. WRITING STYLE
Good writing style is characterized by accuracy, brevity, and clarity.
Long, complex sentences and stilted language do not contribute to
effective communication. Follow these simple rules for good style:
a. Use simple sentences.
b. Maintain sentence structure in simple declarative or imperative
statements.
c. Avoid complicated sentences in which inadvertent omission or
insertion of punctuation could change meaning or create ambiguity.
d. Choose words and terms that are simple and clearly understood.
3. VOCABULARY
Words should be carefully selected and used for precise meaning.
Once a word is selected, use it consistently throughout the
specifications whenever the same meaning is intended.

The following are some examples of commonly misused or ambiguous

terms, along with guidelines for their recommended usage in
specifications.

Amount and Quantity

 Amount should be used when writing about money.
 Quantity should be used when writing about number, linear
measure, area, or volume.
 Any
Any is imprecise in number, permitting discretion by the reader. “Repair any cracks”
could mean some cracks selected by the contractor, but “repair cracks” means all
cracks.
Furnish, Install, and Provide
Furnish means to supply and deliver to the project site, ready for installation. Install
means to place in position for service or use. Provide is commonly accepted in
specifications to mean furnish and install, complete and ready for intended use. These
definitions should be placed in Supplementary Conditions or in Division 01—General
Requirements.
Either and Both
Either implies a choice between two options, whereas both is all inclusive. Make
clear whether the intent is to have “glass sidelights on either side of the door” or to
have “glass sidelights on both sides of the door.”
4. SPELLING
Spelling should be correct and consistent, based on a particular dictionary
designated as the office standard for spelling. A supplemental list of
technical terms may be needed for words not contained in the dictionary
selected as the standard. In cases where two spellings are considered
equally correct, the shorter of the two spellings is preferred for use in
contract documents (e.g., calk not caulk, facia not fascia, gage not gauge,
molding not moulding, and catalog not catalogue).

However, unacceptable spellings produced by attempts at brevity or

simplification should be avoided (e.g., thru
instead of through).
5. SENTENCE STRUCTURE
Two basic grammatical sentence moods can be used
to clearly convey specification requirements:
a. Imperative mood
b. Indicative mood
a. Imperative Mood

The imperative mood is the recommended method for instructions

covering the installation of products and equipment. The verb that clearly
defines the action becomes the first word in the sentence. The imperative
sentence is concise and readily understandable:

b. Indicative Mood

The indicative mood, passive voice requires the use of shall in nearly every
statement. This sentence structure can cause unnecessary wordiness and
monotony:
 Imperative Mood
Spread adhesive with notched trowel.
•nstall equipment plumb and level.
Apply two coats of paint to each exposed
surface.
Indicative Mood
Adhesive shall be spread with notched
trowel.
Equipment shall be installed plumb and
level.
Two coats of paint shall be applied to
each exposed surface.
6. CAPITALIZATION
Capitalization should be consistent throughout the contract documents. Capitalization
of the initial letter of certain specific nouns and of proper names defined in the
conditions of the contract is appropriate. Following are some examples of words that
should be capitalized:

Agreement - When referring to the specific form signed to execute the contract.
Architect - When referring to the architect who is a party to the owner-architect agreement.
Article - When referring to an article in the specifications or conditions of the contract.
Change Order - When issued as a modification to a contract.
Contract - When referring to the specific contract for which the specifications are written.
Contractor - When referring to the contractor who is party to the owner-contractor
7. GRAMMAR
a. Subject/Verb Agreement

The subject and the verb must always agree in number. Singular verbs should be used
with singular subjects and plural verbs with plural subjects. An error in number is easy to make
when a sentence is long and complicated. The singular subject of a sentence can be confused
with a plural modifier.
Incorrect One of the elongated central fasteners are to be placed around the eye of the panel and
bolted.
Correct One of the elongated central fasteners shall be placed around the eye of the panel and
bolted.
Preferred Bolt one elongated central fastener to panel eye.

The incorrect example uses the singular subject one with the plural verb are. The grammatically
correct example has number agreement between subject and verb but is an involved and
relatively verbose sentence. The preferred language has number agreement and is a simple, direct
statement of instruction—that is, clear, concise, correct, and complete.
 b. Parallel Construction
Good grammar also requires the use of identical style in both parts of a compound
subject or predicate. The use of identical style in a series of nouns, adverbs, or
prepositional phrases is also recommended.

Incorrect Tests shall be performed to determine strength and establish qualities.

Correct Tests shall be performed to determine strength and to establish quality.
Preferred Perform tests to determine strength and to establish quality.

Incorrect Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning.

Correct and Preferred Heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning.

 8. INAPPROPRIATE TERMS
Avoid using phrases that Avoid these articles:
have missing objects: • Any
• As allowed • All
• As appropriate • Such
• As approved
Avoid these adverbs: Avoid these words and expressions:
• As directed
• Hereinafter • Etc.
• As indicated
• Hereinbefore • As per
• As necessary
• Herewith • In a workmanlike manner
• As required
• Wherein • To the satisfaction of the architect/engineer
• Shall function as intended
• Also
9. PRONOUN REFERENCE
The use of pronouns in specifications should be minimized or avoided. Personal pronouns
should not be used. Repeating the noun is better than risking possible misunderstanding.

Which and other relative pronouns should be used sparingly, if at all.

Poor Contractor shall install bathroom accessories which are to be purchased under
an allowance.
Better Contractor shall install bathroom accessories to be purchased under an
allowance.TECHNOLOGY 4
BUILDING
Preferred Install bathroom accessories purchased under allowances specified in
Section 01 21 00.

The word same should not be used as a pronoun.

Poor If materials are rejected, the contractor shall replace same at no additional cost.
Better Contractor
ARCH 30293 shall replace rejected materials.
Preferred Replace rejected materials.
ASSESSMENT:

What are the four Cs for effective communication in writing

specification:

1. C____________
2. C____________
3. C____________
4. C____________
ANSWER:
1. CLEAR
2. CONCISE
3. CORRECT
4. COMPLETE
MASTERFORMAT
MASTERFORMAT
MasterFormat® provides a
system of six-digit and eight-digit
numbers and titles for organizing
construction information into a
standard order or sequence. By
establishing a master list of
numbers and titles,
MasterFormat® promotes
standardization, facilitates the
placement and retrieval of
information, and improves
construction communication.

Cntrl + click to follow link:
masterformat-2016 Pages 1-50 - Flip PDF Download |
FlipHTML5
Who is CSI?
CSI stands for Construction Specifications
Institute and is a non-profit organization that is
focused on creating standards, a certification
program, and providing education to
professionals in the construction and design
industry. According to its website, its mission is to
“advance building information management and
education of project teams to improve facility
performance”.
MasterFormat is used throughout the construction
industry to format specifications for construction
contract documents. The purpose of this format is to
assist the user in organizing information into distinct
groups when creating contract documents, and to
assist the user searching for specific information in
consistent locations. The information contained in
MasterFormat is organized in a standardized outline
format within 50 Divisions (16 Divisions pre-2004).
Each Division is subdivided into a number of Sections.
Who Benefits from MasterFormat?

In every phase of a construction project, MasterFormat is an

essential resource to produce projects that are safe, up-to-code
and long-lasting. MasterFormat is relied on by:
 Construction
BUILDING specifiers,
TECHNOLOGY 4 architects, and engineers
 Design, estimating, and preconstruction teams
 General contractors, project managers, and facilities
managers
 Building product manufacturers
Understanding the MasterFormat
structure
At first glance, MasterFormat can seem overwhelming, but once
contractors understand how it’s built, the system is easy to use and
understand. Let’s dive into
Divisions theasstructure
serve and level
the highest breakofdown what it allAs
the hierarchy.
means. detailed above, MasterFormat consists of 50 divisions,
Division each of which refers to a specific part of construction.
(Level 1) Most recently updated in 2020, the divisions are
numbered from 00 to 49. Some of these are currently
unused to allow for potential future developments as
the construction industry evolves.
 Each division is then further divided into multiple sections
Section which cover specific aspects of work within that division.
(Level 2) For example, “Division 05 Metal” is broken into sections “05
10 00 Structural Metal Framing,” “05 20 00 Metal Joists,”
“05 30 00 Metal Decking,” and others.
Sections are further segmented into subsections, which
provide additional information regarding specificity of the
work. For example, “05 10 00 Structural Metal Framing” is
partitioned into “05 12 00 Structural Steel Framing,” “05 13
Subsection 00 Structural Stainless-Steel Framing,” “05 14 00 Structural
(Level 3) Aluminum Framing,” or “05 15 00 Wire Rope Assemblies.”
Subsections allow for a more detailed categorization as
they provide a more precise classification within that
broader scope of work.
Example Specification Number
Let’s look at an example together of how these six digits convey
increasing levels of detail about material requirements.
The numbers and titles in MasterFormat® are organized into two groups:

• Procurement and Contracting Requirements

• Specifications
The first group, Procurement and Contracting Requirements, is the location for introductory information and
procurement information as well as the location for information defining the relationships, responsibilities,
andBUILDING
processes forTECHNOLOGY 4
construction. The second group, Specifications, provides the locations to describe
administrative requirements and the physical aspects of construction.
 DIVISIONS
MasterFormat® arranges related construction practices, or work results, into
a series of Level 1 titles called Divisions. Several of these divisions are
without contents or titles; these are numbers reserved for potential future
expansions in content. Central to the arrangement and use of contents of
the divisions in the groupings in MasterFormat® , and the sections that
BUILDING TECHNOLOGY 4
make them up, is the notion that all of the different types of construction are
addressed equally. The more basic, or common, divisions are generally
placed nearer to the beginning of
MasterFormat®. These contain work results likely to be specified in all types
of construction
The basic organizational structure of the MasterFormat® groups and subgroups,
including division numbers and titles, is as follows:
Procurement and Contracting Requirements Group
Division 00—Procurement and Contracting Requirements

Specifications Group
General Requirements Subgroup:
Division 01—General Requirements Division 10—Specialties
Facility Construction Subgroup: Division 11—Equipment
Division 02—Existing Conditions Division 12—Furnishings
Division 03—Concrete Division 13—Special Construction
Division 04—Masonry Division 14—Conveying Equipment
Division 05—Metals Division 15—(Reserved for future expansion)
Division 06—Wood, Plastics, and Composites Division 16—(Reserved)
Division 07—Thermal and Moisture Protection Division 17—(Reserved)
Division 08—Openings Division 18—(Reserved)
Division 19—(Reserved)
Division 09—Finishes
Facility Services Subgroup:
Division 20—(Reserved)
Division 21—Fire Suppression
Division 22—Plumbing
Division 23—Heating, Ventilating, and
Air-Conditioning
Division 24—(Reserved)
Division 25—Integrated Automation
Division 26—Electrical
Division 27—Communications
Division 28—Electronic Safety and
Security
Division 29—(Reserved)
Site and Infrastructure Subgroup:
Division 30—(Reserved)
Division 31—Earthwork
Division 32—Exterior Improvements
Division 33—Utilities
Division 34—Transportation
Division 35—Waterway and Marine
Construction
Division 36—(Reserved)
Division 37—(Reserved)
Division 38—(Reserved)
Division 39—(Reserved)
Process Equipment Subgroup:

Division 40—Process Integration

Division 41—Material Processing and Handling Equipment
Division 42—Process Heating, Cooling, and Drying Equipment
Division 43— Process Gas and Liquid Handling, Purification and Storage
Equipment
Division 44— Pollution and Waste Control Equipment (revised for MF2010)
Division 45—Industry-Specific Manufacturing Equipment
Division 46—Water and Wastewater Equipment (revised forMF2010)
Division 47—(Reserved)
Division 48—Electrical Power Generation
Division 49—(Reserved)
 Cntrl+click to floow link:
Three-Part Specifications 03 31 00 Structural Concrete (mhfd.org)

The details within each specification are organized in three sections, so construction
professionals often refer to a “three-part spec.” Not to be confused with a
MasterFormat number – which is written as three separate, two-digit numbers – a
“three-part spec” refers to the three sections or parts within the spec itself:

1.Part 1 – General: describes related work, definitions, quality control, submittals,

and guarantees/warranties

2.Part 2 – Products: lists and describes the manufacturers, materials, products,

and equipment to be used or installed

3.Part 3 – Execution: describes the work to be performed and how it will be

installed
 8 Ways MasterFormat Is Used in
Construction
1. Detailing Specifications 2. Estimating
The spec book for a project,
which can run into hundreds or
even thousands of pages, is full
of highly specific information
about each element of the build.
Every detail can’t fit in the
drawings, so architects,
engineers, and designers build
the specifications to capture
every piece of information the
trade contractors will require to
estimate and build the project.
When estimating project costs,
estimators rely on MasterFormat
as a valuable resource. By
utilizing the standardized
classifications, they can make
more precise cost projections for
each component of the
construction, enhancing accuracy
and transparency in budgeting
and minimizing financial risk.
3. Bid Management
4. Procurement
MasterFormat plays a crucial MasterFormat makes it easy for specialty
role in the bidding process by contractors to identify the specific material
providing a standardized needs for the project
framework for GCs, andcommunicate procurement requiremen
subcontractors, and suppliers ts to their suppliers. Part 2 of a three-part
to submit proposals, bids and spec provides precise details about the
quotes. Contractors and qualities of materials required for various
suppliers use MasterFormat to project tasks. Spec books will often
reference the specific divisions specify the craftsmanship level for
and sections when preparing materials, like millwork. This makes it easy
their bids, ensuring that all for a contractor to identify the right
required components and manufacturer or supplier for the project
tasks are included. and ensure they procure the correct grade
of materials.
5. Budget Management

Project owners and general

contractors often use
MasterFormat to organize cost
codes and manage project
budgets. When contractors bill for
work — using a schedule of values
organized by CSI — the owner can
simply transfer line-item costs into
their appropriate budget section,
making it easy to compare
estimated and actual costs. For
simplicity, costs are often rolled up
into the Division level on the project
6. Construction Management 7. Facilities
MasterFormat can also help to
Management
MasterFormat is
streamline construction sometimes used to
management activities. ​Throughout the effectively structure and
construction phase, contractors and organize operation and
subcontractors rely on MasterFormat to maintenance manuals.
effectively organize their work schedules and This enables facilities
determine the sequencing of tasks. managers and building
owners to readily access
By aligning their activities with the divisions, the pertinent information
sections, and subsections provided by required for the upkeep
MasterFormat, contractors can coordinate or replacement of
various trades involved in the project and various building
optimize the allocation of resources. components.
8. Dispute Resolution
Contractor disputes over damage,
defects, errors, or omissions – or
almost anything else – will often
involve the specification book.
Lawyers and forensic analysts
rely on the spec book, and
MasterFormat makes it easier to
identify the relevant material
requirements and contractor
responsibilities in order to
determine liability – and financial
responsibility.
ASSESSMENT:
A part of specifications that describes the list of
materials, manufacturers, supplier, products,
equipment to used or installed in the project.

Part 1 – General
Part 2 – Product
Part 3 - Execution
Answer:
Part 1 - General
Part 2 – PRODUCT
Part 3 - Execution
SAMPLE SPECIFICATIONS
SPECIFICATION WRITING

SAMPLE:
DIVISION 09 FINISHES
SECTION 09310
 PARTS OF CERAMIC TILES SPECIFICATION
PART 1- GENERAL PART II - PRODUCTS PART III - EXECUTION
1.01 Summary 2.01Manufacturer 3.01 Examination
1.02 Quality Assurance 2.02Materials 3.02 Installation General
1.03 Submittals 2.03 Mixing Mortar & 3.03 Tile Installation
1.04 Delivery,Storage&Handling Grouts 3.04 Cleaning and
1.05 Job Condition Protection
 SECTION 09310
CERAMIC TILE

PART I - GENERAL
1.01 SUMMARY
A. Section Includes:
Description of the requirements for materials and installation of ceramic
tile and associated accessory items, as indicated on Drawings and
necessary to provide a complete and proper installation.

B. Related Sections:

1. Section 07901 – Joint Sealers, except as included herein.

2. Section 09250 – Gypsum board (wall substrate).
3. Section 10810 – Toilet Room Accessories.
1.02 QUALITY ASSURANCE
A. Standards of Manufacture: Specific reference to manufacturer’s
names and products specified herein are used as standards, but
this implies no right to substitute other materials or methods without
written acceptance of Architect. Refer to the General Conditions
for procedures governing substitutions.

1. Provide all like products of this Section from a single

manufacturer.

B. Installer Qualifications: Installation shall be done only by

installation firm normally engaged in this business. Work shall be
performed by qualified installers working under an experienced
supervisor.
C. References and Standards (latest Edition unless noted otherwise):
1. American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
2. Federal Specification (FS).
3. Tile Council of America, Inc. (TCA) – “Handbook for Ceramic Tile Installation”,
2001 Edition.
4. American national Standards Institute, (ANSI):
a. A108.5 – “Ceramic Tile Installed with Dry-Set Portland Cement Mortar or
Latex-Portland Cement Mortar”.
b. A108.010 – “Installation of Grout in Tile Work”.
c. A118.01 – “Dry-Set Portland Cement Mortar”.
d. A118.6 – “Ceramic Tile Grout”. e. A137.01 – “Specifications for Ceramic
Tile”. 09310 - 1 CERAMIC TILE 07/2014 Edition PROJECT NO. #######
PROJECT TITLE CONTRACT TITLE

D. Design Criteria: Tile work shall be clean and durable; no discolored or crumbling
joints, loose tile, or cracks shall develop. Correct to the University’s satisfaction
above conditions which occur within warranty period.
1.03 SUBMITTALS
A. Submit the following:

1. List of materials: Complete listing of all materials proposed for use,

with manufacturer’s data. Indicate location of each.
2. Manufacturer’s “Master Grade Certificate” bearing Tile Council of
America (TCA) certification mark for each type of tile.
3. Samples:
a. Samples for Initial Selection Purposes: Submit manufacturer’s
color charts consisting of actual tiles or sections of tile showing full
range of colors, textures and patterns available fore ach type of
tile indicated. Include samples of grout and accessories involving
color selection.
 b. Samples for Verification Purposes.
Submit the following:
1) Samples for each type of tile and for each color and texture
required, not less than 12” square, on plywood or hardboard
backing and grouted.
2) 2) Full size samples for each type of trim, accessory and for each
color.
4. Certified Test Reports: Submit certified test reports from a qualified independent
testing laboratory evidencing compliance of tile and tile setting products with
requirements specified based on comprehensive testing of current products.
Include in reports testing laboratory’s interpretation of test results relative to
specified requirements.
5. Manufacturer’s maintenance instructions and recommendations for maintaining
ceramic tile.
6. Maintenance Materials: a. Prior to final inspection, furnish the University with two
percent of total quantity of each type and color of tile and grout used. b.
Provide in either unopened manufacturer’s cartons or dustproof packaging
plainly marked with type, color, and quantity of contents.
1.04 DELIVERY, STORAGE AND HANDLING
A. Deliver and store packaged materials in original containers with seals
unbroken and labels intact until time of use. Prevent damage or
contamination to materials by water, freezing, foreign matter or other
causes.
B. Ensure timely delivery so products will be available at Project site when
required for installation so as not to delay job progress.

1.05 JOB CONDITIONS

A. Maintain environmental conditions and protect work during and after
installation to comply with referenced standards and manufacturer’s
recommendations.
B. Maintain temperature at not less than 50ºF (10ºC) in tiled areas during
installation and for 7 days after completion, unless higher temperatures are
required by referenced installation standard or manufacturer’s instructions.
PART II - PRODUCTS
2.01 ACCEPTABLE MANUFACTURERS
A. Available Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, tile
manufacturers offering products which may be incorporated in the work
include, but are not limited to, manufacturers identified in tile types, sizes,
colors and patterns listed on the Drawings, and manufacturers of mortar,
grout, and tile cleaners as follows:
1. Latex-Portland Cement Mortars: American Olean Tile Co., Inc.; H.B.
Fuller Co.; Laticrete International, Inc.; or equal.
2. Commercial Portland Cement Grouts: American Olean Tile Co.,
Inc.; H.B. Fuller Co.; Laticrete International, Inc.; or equal.
3. Latex-Portland Cement Grouts: American Olean Tile Co., Inc.; H.B.
Fuller Co.; or equal.
4. Tile Cleaners: Hillyard Chemical Co.; L & M Surco Mfg. Co., Inc.; or
equal
2.02 MATERIALS
A. Requirements:
1. ANSI Standard for Ceramic Tile: Comply with ANSI A137.01 “American
National Standard Specifications for Ceramic Tile” for types and grades of
tile indicated. a. Furnish tile complying with “Standard Grade”
requirements unless otherwise indicated.
2. ANSI Standard for Tile Installation Materials: Comply with ANSI standard
referenced with products and materials indicated for setting and
grouting.
3. ASTM 2048: Coefficient of friction ______.
4. Colors, Textures and Patterns: For tile, grout and other products requiring
selection of colors, surface textures or other appearance characteristics,
provide products to match characteristics indicated or, if not otherwise
indicated, as selected by Architect from manufacturer’s standards.
a. Provide tile trim and accessories which match color and finish of
adjoining flat tile.
 5. Mounting: Where factory-mounted tile is required, provide back- or
edgemounted tile assemblies as standard with manufacturer unless
another mounting method is indicated. 09310 - 3 CERAMIC TILE 07/2014
Edition PROJECT NO. ####### PROJECT TITLE CONTRACT TITLE

B. Floor Tile: As specified on the Drawings.

C. Wall Tile: As specified on the Drawings.
D. Trim Units: Provide tile trim units to match characteristics of adjoining flat
tile and to comply with following requirements:
1. Size: As indicated, coordinated with sizes and coursing of adjoining
flat tile, where applicable.
2. Shapes: As follows, selected from manufacturer’s standard shapes:
3. Base for Thinset Mortar Installations: Straight.
4. External Corners for Thinset Installations: Surface bullnose.
5. Internal Corners: Field-butted square corners, except use coved
base and cap angle pieces designed to member with stretcher
shapes.
 5. thickness of tile floor and adjoining floor finished of different
thickness, tapered to provide a reduction in thickness from ½” to ¼”
across nominal 4” dimension. E. Setting Materials: Provide materials
to comply with referenced standards; as required for installation
method designated.

F. Grouting Materials: Provide Commercial Portland Cement Grout;

complying with ANSI A118.6; of color selected by Architect.
G. Tile Cleaner: Product specifically acceptable to manufacturer of tile
and gout manufacturer for application indicated and as
recommended by National Tile Promotion Federation or Ceramic Tile
Institute.
2.03 MIXING MORTARS AND GROUT
A. Mix mortars and gouts to comply with requirements of referenced
standards and manufacturers for accurately proportioning of
materials, water or additive content, mixing equipment and mixer
speeds, mixing containers, mixing time, and other procedures
needed to produce mortars and gouts of uniform quality with
optimum performance characteristics for application indicated.
PART III - EXECUTION
3.01 EXAMINATION

A. Examine surfaces to receive tile work and conditions under which tile
will be installed. Do not proceed with tile work until surfaces.

3.02 INSTALLATION GENERAL

A. ANSI Tile Installation Standard: Comply with applicable parts of ANSI

108 series of tile installation standards included under “American
National Standard Specifications for the Installation of Ceramic Tile”.
09310 - 4 CERAMIC TILE 07/2014 Edition PROJECT NO. #######
PROJECT TITLE CONTRACT TITLE
B. TCA Installation Guidelines: TCA “Handbook for Ceramic Tile
Installation”; comply with TCA installation methods indicated or, if not
otherwise indicated, as applicable to installation conditions shown.
C. Extend tile work into recesses and under or behind equipment and
fixtures, to form a complete covering without interruptions, except as
otherwise shown. Terminate work neatly at obstructions, edges and corners
without disrupting pattern or joint alignments.

D. Accurately form intersections and returns. Perform cutting and drilling of

tile without marring visible surfaces. Carefully grind cut edges of tile abutting
trim, finish or built-in items for straight aligned joints. Fit tile closely to
electrical outlets, piping, fixtures and other penetrations so that plates,
collars, or covers overlap tile.

E. Jointing Pattern: Unless otherwise show, lay tile in grid pattern. Align joints
when adjoining tiles on floor, base, walls and trim are same size. Lay out tile
work and center tile fields in both directions in each space or on each wall
area. Adjust to minimize tile cutting. Provide uniform joint widths, unless
otherwise shown.
 1. For tile mounted in sheets make joints between tile sheets same width as
joints within tile sheets so that extent of each sheet is not apparent in
finished work.

F. Expansion Joints: Locate expansion joints and other sealant filled joints,
including control, contraction and isolation joints, where indicated. Do not
saw cut joints.
1. Prepare joints and apply sealants to comply with requirements of
referenced standards and sealant manufacturer.

G. Grout tile to comply with the requirements of the following installation

standards: 1. For ceramic tile grouts (sand-portland cement, dry-set,
commercial portland cement, and latex-portland cement grouts) comply
with ANSI A108.010.
3.03 TILE INSTALLATION
A. Install types of tile designated for wall and floor application to comply with
ANSI Specifications for ceramic tile.

3.04 CLEANING AND PROTECTION

A. Cleaning: Upon completion of placement and grouting, clean ceramic

tile surfaces so they are free of foreign matter.
1. Unglazed tile may be cleaned with acid solutions only when
permitted by tile and grout manufacturer’s printed instructions, but
no sooner than 14 days after installation. Protect metal surfaces,
cast iron and vitreous plumbing fixtures from effects of acid
cleaning. Flush surface with clean water before and after cleaning.
B. Finished Tile Work: Leave finished installation clean and free of cracked,
chipped, broken, unbonded, or otherwise defective tile work.

C. Protection: When recommended by tile manufacturer, apply a protective

coat of neutral protective cleaner to completed tile walls and floors. Protect
installed tile work with kraft paper or other heavy covering during
construction period to prevent staining, damage and wear. 09310 - 5
CERAMIC TILE 07/2014 Edition PROJECT NO. ####### PROJECT TITLE
CONTRACT TITLE
1. Prohibit foot and wheel traffic from using tiled floors for at least 7
days after grouting is completed.
2. Before final inspection, remove protective coverings and rinse
neutral cleaner from tile surfaces.

END OF SECTION 09310

 If there is a conflict
between
the Drawings and Details
on Drawings and
the Specifications, then
the Specifications will
prevail. The higher
“Order of Precedence of
Documents” governs or
prevails.
The 16 Divisions of construction, as defined by
the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI)'s MasterFormat, is
the most widely used standard for organizing specifications and
other written information for commercial and institutional building
projects in the U.S. and Canada. In 2004, MasterFormat was
updated and expanded to 50 Divisions.It provides a master list of
divisions, and section numbers and titles within each division, to
follow in organizing information about a facility's construction
requirements and associated activities. Standardizing the
presentation of such information improves communication among
all parties involved in construction projects.
The following are the sixteen divisions listed in the Master Format
1995 Edition.
 Division 01 — General Requirement
 Division 02 — Site Works
 Division 03 — Concrete
 Division 04 — Masonry
 Division 05 — Metals
 Division 06 — Wood and Plastics
 Division 07 — Thermal and Moisture Protection
 Division 08 — Doors and Windows
 Division 09 — Finishes
 Division 10 — Specialties
 Division 11 — Equipment
 Division 12 — Furnishings
 Division 13 — Special Construction
 Division 14 — Conveying Systems
 Division 15 — Mechanical/Plumbing
 Division 16 — Electrical
ASSESSMENT
1. What is the latest masterformat number of divisions?
1. What is the latest masterformat number of divisions?

Answer: 50 Divisions
2. A written documentation describing the scope of work,
any materials that are to be used, the methods of
installation, and the quality of workmanship under contract.
2. A written documentation describing the scope of work, any materials that are to be used, the
methods of installation, and the quality of workmanship under contract.

Answer: Specifications
3. What are the three parts of specification?
3. What are the three parts of specification?

1. General
Answer: 2. Product
3. Execution
4. Who benefits from the masterformat?
 4. Who benefits from the masterformat?

Construction specifiers, architects, and

engineers
Answer: Design, estimating, and preconstruction
teams
General contractors, project managers, and
facilities managers
Building product manufacturers
5. A type of specification that convey the
requirements of a project through a detailed
explanation of the materials that the contractor
must use, and the means of installing those
materials.
5. A type of specification that convey the requirements of a project through a
detailed explanation of the materials that the contractor must use, and the
means of installing those materials.

Answer: Descriptive Specifications

Q&A
THANK YOU