TRC Master Guide Specifications
Knowledge-based editor notes as a starting point for your research and to educate your team.
Your Specifications Just Got Easier
Education. The why behind the decision is built in.
These guide specs have been updated through the years to incorporate a knowledge base for architects and specifiers to gain a better understanding of decisions that need to be made for each product. The use of generic terminology in Section Titles help the design team coordinate notes on the drawings. Knowledge-based editor notes make them an educational resource and research tool. Specifications are full of interesting facts about materials. Young professionals studying for the Registration Exam would learn a lot by editing just 3 or 4 Sections on a project using my guide specifications. (Psst. I can also help them learn how!)
View some sample sections: Gypsum Cement Underlayment and Metal Stairs
Research & Codes
Do you realize how many materials are selected based on them being able to meet a code requirement? There are millions of products, and some of them have been developed to solve problems. Namely code challenges. Being aware of available products may help solve or alleviate an issue. Much of the research I have done, along with code requirements, is embedded in the editor notes. I am passionate about working with product representatives, learning about materials, and sharing that knowledge with others. Being able to do that through my guide specifications is rewarding.
Resource to the Industry
Not every project is the same. And nothing replaces a conversation with the manufacturer. Manufacturer’s representatives can help you manipulate the path to success. I have participated in years of conferences and conventions and trade show events meeting people and learning about new products. If I don’t know someone you need, I probably know someone that knows someone that can get you on the right path. That’s the wonderful thing about specifications, you don’t operate in a bubble. The table of contents indicates who I worked with when updating or developing the section. They would love to hear from you! TRC does not receive nor accept payment from manufacturers for listing products in these specifications.
View some sample sections: Traffic Coatings and Fiber Cement Siding
History
These guide specs have been the starting point to specify products on projects of all sizes for commercial use, university, government, healthcare, renovations, mixed-use residential and I’m sure more! While sustainable rating systems have been used in the past they are not included in these published guide specifications. TRC is not a sustainability consultant and while having been involved in many projects of varying rating systems, found that each is unique making it difficult to develop a standard other than a reference to Division 01.
TRC Legacy
The vast majority of my career as a specifier was with my late colleague Paul Simonsen who started this guide spec well over 30 years ago! He and I would talk about teaching the next generation of construction professionals, bridging the gap between education and the first 5 years on the job, and bringing our specs into the future.
You won’t get Paul, but you will have me. This is my way of giving back to the construction industry that brought Paul and me hours of work, (a little frustration!), and so many rewarding moments. I am excited to work with you and hear of your successes and needs as we build a stronger community of educated professionals by introducing them to specifications that work.
View the: Table of Contents
One time download. No yearly subscriptions.
I made this for you to be more efficient with your time. Once you edit this for your own use, you don’t have to pay for continued access or updates. I’ll send you updates as I make them so you are aware of changes. As I generate more guide specs, you’ll get those too without an additional fee. And if you are looking for a spec, just ask.
Word documents you can manage.
This is about content, not a system that ties into your BIM or talks to your consultants. This is simple, this is manageable. Download the Word documents, edit them for your project, use them for the next one, and the next. Even if you only need one spec per year.
Specs Together.
I won’t write them for you, and I am confident you don’t need me to! But I’ll be there when you have a question. Specs can be daunting. I have developed programs and a one-on-one mentoring program that can teach your team about specifications and even help you get through the first one. Ask me about tailoring a training program for your office!
View some sample sections: Metal Lockers, Projection Screen, and Rolling Window Shades
The table of contents indicates which sections will be added by the end of the year. Need something sooner? Email me.
Specification Education
Contact me to set up a workshop for your team to better understand specifications and start editing your specifications in-house today!