Why specification sheets are crucial to successful paint projects
Written by
17 July 2023
•
4 min read
A specification is essentially a written document that forms part of the whole documentation package for a project. The visual plan is usually in 3D and shows what paint colours are being used, but the written specification that goes alongside that plan explains what can’t be shown visually.
“The specification sheet is paramount to making sure that we know what the product is, and we also know the process for that coating,” says Dulux National Specification Manager Simon Blincoe. “Quite often visually, it'll show us one colour on the plan, which we might want in a three-coat system, hence the documentation is very important.”
A specification sheet is required for all products and trades used across a new build, and Masterspec is the most used specification platform. It allows the architect or designer to compile product information across the whole project, while for re-paint projects, whether they’re residential or commercial, Dulux uses its own specification system called DuSpec, and has recently gone live with the improved Duspec+.
The specification sheet sets the expectation for the desired finish of the project and can be referred to if there is an issue with the paint after the project is completed.
“If you don't have a specification, you've got nothing to refer back to, should there be a problem,” says Blincoe. “Also, the painting industry is not a regulated industry, such as plumbing, construction or electricians, therefore, you're relying on a document to make sure that it is clearly explained what the outcomes are.”
The specification document references the industry standard, such as ASNZS23/11, which is the guide to the painting of buildings, and is well recognised as a standard for the painting industry.
Within the specification, you can also determine whether you're wanting a Registered Master Painter, or an industry-accredited painter, such as a Dulux Accredited Painter, or a Porter's Paints Guild Member to be applying the paint. “By specifying the applicator credentials, you may be able to access workmanship warranties and support, as outlined by relevant building authorities in every region.”
Paint specification is also very useful in the tendering or pricing process to give you an apples-to-apples comparison between prices because it gives a very concise description of what the painter will be covering.
“If you use one specification document, everyone's pricing it to the same level. So therefore, once you're evaluating who is going to win the job, you're not just giving it to the painter who hasn’t included the roof or the steelwork in their quote.”
It also enables painters to easily price the job accurately.
“Some painters will price using a per square metre rate on a job, which can be challenging if they've never seen the paint specification. We see it quite often, for example, if they haven't allowed for any intumescent coatings.”
The specification sheet will include what the product is, and what the sheen level is, and it will generally refer to a product datasheet that gives a lot more detail as to the preparation of surfaces and what the application is.
“For example, the specification will state the required preparation, products for undercoating, and the topcoat system. There may also be specific requirements for coverage and film build, depending on the project and product requirements.”
These documents can be used in conjunction with a finishing schedule, supplied by the architect or designer, which shows exactly which paints are being applied and where.
The specification sheet acts as a safeguard for the specifier and means there’s a document to refer to if any issues arise.
“I'd say 90% of the time projects will be quite straightforward, but it is best practice to have everything documented to ensure the finished project is as expected. It is also a great record for repainting or any other work down the track.”
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