Construction specifications detail what materials you’re going to use in a project, the work included in the job, and how the installation should go. And you can get help from an engineer, architect, or a third-party tool to write and use them properly.

Plenty of work goes into writing specifications for a construction project. However, if you know the general format, you only need to fill in the blanks with the corresponding details. If you’re new to specifying building products, you can also reference ARCAT, which is free and easy to use. ARCAT: Building and Construction CSI Specifications.

The Building Act states that a specification defines how a building is to be constructed, altered, demolished or removed. For a new project, it must define the intended use of the building, detail all the systems and materials used and provide procedures for installation, inspection and maintenance during and after construction.

The specification should define: ❚ the extent of work to be carried out ❚ quality of the materials ❚ how materials should be placed and fixed ❚ details about particular products required for compliance ❚ acceptable standards for each trade or aspect of the construction ❚ complete schedules for windows, linings and finishes.