Spec reviews can be a tricky thing.
There are a LOT of details that are required and if you don’t know the ins and outs of every single opening, you might as well open up your wallet and watch all of those bills spread their wings and fly off into the sunset.
Never fear. There’s hope.
We have a couple of dos and don’ts to check off your list with your next spec review that will hopefully save you money.
DON’T Say “Like for Like” in Your Specs
Ahhh, wouldn’t it be nice if all you had to say was “Eh, I’ll just go with like for like,” and everything worked out perfectly because it really was that simple?
Hate to be the one to burst that bubble, but spec reviews are never that easy.
In case you aren’t familiar with what “like for like” is, this common request leaves the decision for the final choice in hardware up to the general contractor. The hardware is supposed to be the same style, same finish, and same grade as the hardware specified, but it can be a different manufacturer.
Unfortunately, not all brands are created equal and, while some of them may look exactly the same to the naked eye, those imperfections will begin to make themselves known over time if the quality isn’t as good. Goodbye to savings and hello to unneeded upcharges!
DO Check Your Hardware Grades in Spec Reviews
I can’t tell you how many times we’ve seen higher grade hardware installed when it’s not necessary. The price difference in a grade one piece of hardware is significantly different so to install a grade one when it isn’t needed simply wastes your money.
On the other hand, if you go the opposite route and the general contractor installs a grade three piece of hardware when you need a grade one, it’s going to wear out much, much more quickly and cost you money with repairs and replacement.
We beg of you—please check your hardware grades during your spec reviews before you send it out! It will only take a few minutes, but the savings will be worth it.
DON’T Go with Non-Standard Door Sizes
This tip isn’t necessarily a firm no. If you’re the kind who is dying for a door that’s nine feet tall, feel free to do that. But, let us warn you that those non-standard size doors are going to add up in the long run.
If you stick with standard eight feet doors, you’re probably going to be just as happy and you’re not going to burn through your budget so fast.
DO Avoid Change Orders
Granted, this tip is much easier said than done. You can go through every last inch of your spec and still miss one tiny piece of hardware that has been improperly specified or left off altogether.
That’s the nature of the game.
It’s important to know that with every change order comes a charge. If you’re serious about avoiding extra charges, have a professional review your specifications. This will add another set of eyes that will be able to help you identify any missing hardware or improper specifications.
Need more tips on how you can avoid extra charges as a result of your spec reviews? Give us a call here at LockNet. We have professionals who are able to look at your spec and help you spot any issues or concerns you may run into along the way.