Why Specify?

A home built without adherence to these specifications is like a house of cards waiting to collapse at any moment. The importance of following these guidelines cannot be overstated – they serve as an assurance of quality craftsmanship and safety for both homeowners and builders alike.

To truly grasp the significance of home building specifications, it is essential to understand their different types. Virtually every element found in home building construction involves specifications.

In fact, a set of home building plans is itself a graphical specification of the design and dimensionality of the home. Structural specifications determine how load-bearing elements should be designed and constructed – from foundation to joist and roof framing issues. Your mechanical trades will have their own set of specifications as well. For example your plumbing specifications outline requirements for water supply lines and drainage systems. Your HVAC contractor (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) contractor will have their own set of specifications, while your electrical specifications will govern the installation of wiring systems.

As the Builder, it will be up to you to know the specifications for each type of construction process and make sure that your trades, vendors, and suppliers know them as early in the home building process as possible. Bear in mind that every quote or bid that you receive will be based on specifications that somebody provides. The best approach is for you, as the builder, to provide your specifications when you ask each trade, vendor, or supplier to quote of bid your project. This way, you will be more assured of receiving “apples-to-apples” quotes and bids.