SUBMITTALS | SIKES CONCRETE

Submittals hold significant importance in the construction process, contributing to the quality and precision of a project, and are especially vital for commercial concrete contractors, pipe foremen, and those involved in site work, state and federal road projects, and quality control. These crucial documents help in reviewing, approving, and monitoring the materials, equipment, and systems utilized in construction. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the meaning of submittals, the various types of submittals, the process involved, and the reasons behind their significance in construction.

What are Submittals in Construction?

Submittals in construction refer to the process of submitting samples, technical data, and product information for review and approval by the owner, architect, or engineer. This information is used to ensure that the materials, equipment, and systems used in the construction project meet the specifications and requirements outlined in the construction documents.

Types of Submittals

There are several types of submittals used in construction, including:

Product Data Submittals
Shop Drawing Submittals
Sample Submittals
Performance Submittals
Operation and Maintenance Submittals

Product Data Submittals

Product data submittals provide detailed information about the materials, equipment, and systems to be used in the construction project. This information includes specifications, test reports, certifications, and manufacturer's instructions.

Shop Drawing Submittals

Shop drawings are detailed drawings that provide information about the installation of the materials, equipment, and systems used in the construction project. Shop drawing submittals are submitted for review and approval to ensure that the installation complies with the construction documents.

Sample Submittals

Sample submittals are physical samples of the materials, equipment, and systems to be used in the construction project. These samples are submitted for review and approval to ensure that the materials meet the specifications and requirements outlined in the construction documents.

Performance Submittals

Performance submittals provide information about the performance capabilities of the materials, equipment, and systems to be used in the construction project. This information includes test reports, certifications, and manufacturer's instructions.

Operation and Maintenance Submittals

Operation and maintenance submittals provide information about the proper operation and maintenance of the materials, equipment, and systems used in the construction project. This information includes manuals, instructions, and warranty information.

The Submittal Process

The submittal process typically involves the following steps:

Preparation: The contractor prepares the submittal and gathers the necessary information and samples.
Review: The submittal is reviewed by the owner, architect, or engineer to ensure that it complies with the construction documents.
Approval: If the submittal is approved, the contractor is authorized to proceed with the installation of the materials, equipment, or systems.
Tracking: The approved submittal is tracked and recorded for future reference.

Why are Submittals Important in Construction?

Submittals are important in construction for several reasons, including:

Ensuring Compliance with Construction Documents

Submittals ensure that the materials, equipment, and systems used in the construction project comply with the specifications and requirements outlined in the construction documents.

Quality Control

Submittals help to maintain the quality of the construction project by ensuring that the materials, equipment, and systems used meet the necessary standards and certifications.

Improved Communication

Submittals improve communication between the contractor, owner, architect, and engineer by providing a clear and concise method for reviewing and approving the materials, equipment, and systems used in the construction project.

Avoid Delays and Cost Overruns

By ensuring that the materials, equipment, and systems used in the construction project are approved and meet the specifications, submittals can help to avoid delays and cost overruns.

Record Keeping

Submittals provide a record of the materials, equipment, and systems used in the construction project, which can be useful for future reference and maintenance purposes.

Conclusion

Submittals play a critical role in the construction process, ensuring the quality, accuracy, and compliance of the materials, equipment, and systems used in a construction project. By providing detailed information and samples for review and approval, submittals help to improve communication, avoid delays and cost overruns, and provide a record of the materials used in the construction project. Whether you are an owner, architect, engineer, or contractor, understanding the importance of submittals and the submittal process is essential to ensuring the success of your construction project.