What Is a Submittal in Construction? Explained | Houseura
Clear communication and documentation have a crucial role in the construction industry as it is necessary to make sure that the construction project is done correctly, safely, and in the specifications. The construction submittal is one of the major aspects of this documentation process. Most homeowners, new contractors and even project managers tend to raise the question as to what is a submittal in construction and why do we care?
This blog will discuss what a submittal is in the construction industry, what is the purpose of a submittal, the types of submittals, the process of a submittal, the person who has to do it and how it helps the construction projects stay on schedule.
What Is a Submittal in Construction?
A submittal in construction is a compilation of papers, samples, or product information within a contractor in an attempt to be reviewed and approved by the project architect, engineer, or consultant prior to the fabrication or installation of materials on-site. Submittals are used to ensure that the materials, products, and systems submitted by the contractor are to the correct design intent, specifications and to the requirements of the contract.
Simply, submittals serve as a quality-control gateway. They ensure that what is installed in the building matches what was stipulated in the project plans.
What Are the Importance of Submittals in construction?
Submittals are important in avoiding mistakes, rework and wastage of time. They are significant in the sense that they:
- Make sure to check drawings and specifications.
- Forbid installation of wrong or poor materials.
- Minimize expensive error and re-work.
- Enhance the cooperation between contractors and designers.
- Profit quality and uniformity of projects.
Lack of an appropriate submittal process would increase chances of construction projects being hit by disputes, delays, and budget overruns, especially in interior design projects where material approvals and finishing details are crucial.
Construction Submittal types
The submittals that are applied in construction works vary in terms of the scope and complexity of the work and are of several types.
1. Product Data Submittals
Information that is provided by way of product data submittal comprises of manufacturer brochures, technical specifications, installation instructions and performance data. Such documents assist in confirming that the chosen products are according to the project requirements.
2. Shop Drawings
Shop drawings are elaborated drawings that are prepared by contractors, subcontractors or suppliers. These display the manner in which certain elements, including steel structures, HVAC systems, cabinetry or electrical layouts, will be crafted and assembled.
3. Samples
Examples of physical materials used as samples include tiles, color of paint, flooring, bricks or fixtures. They enable the design team to check aesthetics, quality and finishes prior to bulk installation.
4. Mock-Ups
Mock-ups are complete or partial assemblies that are done to prove how well it will be manufactured, what will be used and how it will look. They are usually applied on complicated architectural features.
5. Test Certifications and Reports
These consist of laboratory test reports, compliance certificates and performance reports which demonstrate that materials are up to the industry standards and safety requirements.
The Construction Submittal Process
Submittal process is a structured workflow in order to achieve accuracy and accountability.
- Contractor Preparation- This step entails the preparation of microstrip and self-feed lines and the installation of these components to create coaxial cable.
- Contractor - Preparation- This stage involves preparation of microstrip and self-feed lines and fitting these parts to form coaxial cable.
The contractor or subcontractor collects the necessary paperwork, drawings or samples based on the specification of the project.
Step 2: Internal Review
The general contractor verifies the submittal prior to submission to make sure it is compliant with the requirements of the contract and the project standards.
Step 3: Submission to Design Team.
The submission is forwarded to the architect, engineer or consultant to review.
Step 4: Review and Approval
The design team examines the submittal and checks the submittal as:
- Approved
- Approved as noted
- Revise and resubmit
- Rejected
Step 5: Resubmission (Where necessary)
In case of revisions, the contractor makes necessary amendments and revises and resubmits the submittal to approve it.
Step 6: Implementation
Upon approval, the contractor then moves on with fabrication or installation as approved by the submittal.
Who Is to be responsible for Submittals?
Submittal sub responsibility is distributed among project stakeholders:
- Subcontractors: Prepare and submit technical data, shop drawings and samples.
- General Contractor: Receives, approves and sends submittals.
- Architect/Engineer: Examines design submittals.
- Project Owner: Indirectly gains out of quality assurance.
Defined responsibility will enable effective communication, which is free of confusion.
What is the difference between submittals and shop drawings?
One of the most widespread misconceptions is that submittals and shop drawings are identical. Although, shop drawings are a form of submittal, not all submittals are shop drawings. Submittals contain a wider variety of documents including product data, samples and certifications, as opposed to shop drawings, which are only concerned with the fabrication and installation details.
Types of Construction Submittal Errors
Errors during submittals may lead to delays and extra expenses. Common errors include:
- The submission of incomplete or wrong documents.
- Disregard of project specification.
- Late submissions
- Coordination failure among trades.
- Lack of internal review of submittals prior to their submission.
These errors are prevented, which enhances the efficiency and results of projects.
The Best Practices of Construction Submittal Management
In order to facilitate a flawless submittal:
- Develop a stepwise submittal timetable at the beginning of the project.
- Digital submittal management.
- Label and organize documents clearly.
- Ensure that there is open communication with the design team.
- Be careful with track approvals and revisions.
A proper submittal management process contributes to a construction project being timely and within a budget.
The importance of Submittals to Project Success.
Submittals are not paper work but are critical in the provision of a good construction project. Submittals mitigate risk, improve quality, and safeguard every stakeholder by making sure that materials and systems are specifications prior to their installation.
Conclusion
What is a submittal in construction then? It is a critical quality-control methodology that makes certain that the materials, products, and systems incorporated in a project are adhering to authorized designs and specifications. Poorly handled submittals can be used to prevent expensive mistakes, enhance coordination, and deliver on a project successfully.
Houseura is a reliable source of expert advice, industry experience, and real-world solutions to those who, as homeowners, contractors, and construction professionals, need to find insightful information that is clear and reliable in the construction processes and best practices.
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