A new decade is upon us and Recon Independent Assessments goal in the upcoming year is to help installers and contractors understand Division 8 Specifications better in the new year.
Several times over the past year we've gotten calls from folks asking for testing proposals and after spending time with them helping them understand what their project specifications required we've heard; "Well, ummmm, the project is finished, but when I asked for final payment, they wanted the testing reports...". This statement was typically followed by a comment about how they had no idea that testing could be "so expensive".
The real question about the cost of testing is better; "How much could it cost if testing wasn't performed?"
Owners and Architects know the answer for that one, hence the requirement for testing is in there.
One of the problems that is often seen in the construction field is the omission of testing in bid proposals. It often leads to much hand wringing later.
Recon sees Division 8 Specifications every day and is familiar with them and the ASTM & AAMA testing standards that they cite. Additionally, we understand the time that initial testing requires and the potential for re-testing based on our experience in the field.
Don't miss out on including a line item for the testing if it is in the Specs. You might just get the job and find out later that the reason you were selected was based on your bid that was flawed. It's better to have missed out on getting a project than to find out you are on the hook for testing that wasn't in the budget.
The solution to this problem is simple. Ask for help.
Recon Independent Assessments is ready to help anyone that asks. Send us an email that includes the specifications for windows, curtain walls, storefronts, and skylights along with an elevation so we can see the sizes and access to the test specimens and we'll get a number to you and discuss how much time testing should take based on the requirements.
It's really that simple.
Maybe we'll see you on the job site, maybe not. Either way, we wish you well and hope to improve your life on the job site or in the office by helping avoid nasty surprise expenses.
Best of Luck in the New Year!
