Building Specifications - Carpenter's and Builder's Math, Plans, and Specifications - page 252

The color of paint will be plain white, except for the shutters and
shakes, which will be green and will be given two coats of ( manufac-
turer's name ) shake and shingle finish. The second-story floors will
be sanded smooth and given three coats of ( manufacturer's name )
polyurethane varnish. The first-story floors are to be left bare for
wall-to-wall carpeting or vinyl tiling. All interior birch trim is to
be finished natural, with one coat of white shellac and two coats
of ( manufacturer's name )offlat varnish. The type and color of the
interior wall paint for all interior walls will be specified by the owner.
Condition of Bids
The owner reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids.
Summary
A specification is a statement containing a detailed description or
enumeration of particulars, as of the terms of a contract, and details
of construction usually not shown in an architectural drawing. Great
care should be used when reading specifications to avoid misunder-
standings and disputes. Each item entering into the construction
is defined and described with such precision that there can be no
chance of misunderstanding or double interpretation.
Framing will be indicated on the drawings. Specifications as
to type of timber used (such as No. 1 common yellow pine,
square, straight, and free from any imperfections that will impair its
longevity) will be indicated. Headers over window and door open-
ings will be indicated as for size and installation procedure.
Interior trim, including stair casing, will be shown. Moldings used
throughout the house will indicate miter angles and type of lumber
used. Ceiling height (as well as plastered or drywall construction)
will be specified. Most plastered walls will be specified as to type
of finish coat (which, in most cases, is at the option of the owner)
and will also specify that exposed corners be protected with metal
corner beads.
All necessary materials for completing the plumbing installation,
as set forth in the specifications, shall meet all state and local reg-
ulations. Electrical wiring will be listed and meet the requirements
and regulations of the National Electrical Code, or state and local
codes.
Review Questions
1. Why should great care be used when reading specifications?
2. What information is included in the specifications on framing
a house?