When it comes to spec reviews, the chances of you walking away with a perfect spec the first time are slim to none. It’s just the nature of the game. But! The good news is that everyone deals with and in the long-run, this is going to do nothing but help you along in your process.. This is the time you take to work out any kinks you might find in your facility plans. This way you’re not dealing with a bunch of problems in the future.
Trust us. You don’t want to find these issues after construction has begun. Your wallet will be crying.
Today I’ll go over some of the most common issues found during spec reviews so you’ll know what to look out for.
Spec Reviews: Common Spec Review Issues
Missing Parts
Missing parts is one of the easiest fixes. It’s so simple, in fact, you wouldn’t think it happens as much as it does. We’ve seen it all—complete leversets missing, two door closers on one door, you name it. We want you to catch those mistakes! Pay close attention when you’re looking over the details and don’t just focus on the big picture.
We understand that when you’re right in the thick of things, it’s easy to overlook smaller details. Having a second set of eyes can make all the difference in the world.
No Spec
I know what you’re thinking. “How can not having a spec be an actual spec review issue?”
I’ll tell you. Because you need a spec and not having one IS the issue. There are many, many companies out there that don’t have hardware or door specifications listed and just assume the general contractor is going to get them the most bang for their buck. I hate to be the one to break it to you, but it hardly ever works out that way. You need to have your hardware specified so you know for sure you’re getting the correct hardware grades, consistent looks throughout the facility, etc.
Not having a spec is not a risk worth taking.
It seems tedious but take the time to have a spec put together. You’ll thank us.
Over Spec’d
On the opposite end of the spectrum, we sometimes have clients come in who have facilities completely over-specified. It’s easy to want the best of the best, especially if you have the money to spend, but there’s no point in wasting it.
Do you need to put a three-point high security lock on the personal diary you keep? Probably not. (Unless you have a way more exciting life than me or bothersome siblings.) You want to protect your diary, but it doesn’t take that type of lock to do it.
You can easily find a lock suitable for your particular situation for less money. Just assess your facility and check out these hardware grade definitions. You’ll be saving yourself money in the long run.
Wrong Style
To the untrained eye, the wrong style of hardware might not even be noticeable. In fact, it’s very likely it won’t. However, it can cause big problems in the long run if this issue isn’t caught.
There’s a reason that type of hardware was requested and whether it’s for the style of hinges or the type of leverset, it’s going to serve a purpose. If you change the style you could risk the durability of the hardware or the door in the long run and we all know that means more money.
Those are just a few of the issues we commonly see during spec reviews, but there are plenty more. If you have questions about spec reviews and want to get in touch with someone, feel free to contact us. We’d be more than happy to help you out.