Ward R. Malisch Concrete Construction Symposium (Part 2)-Concrete Specifications The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly (Recorded presentation)

Concrete Specifications The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly (Recorded presentation)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Michelle Wilson, the Director of Concrete Technology at the Portland Cement Association, delivered a talk focused on improving concrete specifications, drawing attention to enhancements made in ACI 301 specifications. Her work emphasizes the importance of clear, concise, and enforceable guidelines. She shared personal anecdotes about collaborating with a colleague named Ward, applauding his dedication to refining concrete specifications and identifying common pitfalls in vague contract language. Wilson admitted they strive continuously to eliminate subjective terms and include precise obligations in the specifications. Key areas of focus are updating temperature limits for curing water and reinforcing steel, revising terms like “match,” and incorporating pre-construction conference language. The talk underscored the necessity for knowledge of what is being requested in specifications, pointing out that, without explicit demands, contractors can't be expected to execute certain actions. Wilson concluded by acknowledging Ward’s impactful contributions to ensuring quality and performance in concrete specification.

Keywords

concrete specifications

ACI 301 enhancements

Portland Cement Association

temperature limits

pre-construction conference

contract language