Specifications and notes

Specifications are organised by trade or system using a classification — e.g. MasterFormat in North America, NATSPEC in Australia, NBS in the UK. Each section typically covers general requirements, products (materials and standards) and execution (workmanship, tolerances, testing).

A prescriptive specification names exactly what to use ("90 mm MGP10 studs at 450 centres"). A performance specification states the result required ("wall system achieving FRL 60/60/60 and Rw 45") and lets the contractor propose a solution. Most projects mix both.

Drawing notes should identify what and where; the specification says what quality and how. Avoid long notes that repeat the specification — if either changes, they'll conflict. Use short, consistent labels, ideally keynotes coded to specification sections, with a general note stating how drawings and specification relate.

Common conflicts: a material named differently on drawings and in the specification; dimensions stated in notes and drawn differently; product names on drawings that the specification has since changed. A final cross-check between drawings and specification before issue catches most of them.