---
title: Self-Inflicted Budget Difficulties
description: I received the specification shown below from a friend, an independent manufacturer's representative today. Yes this is the total expansion control spec. And a Construction Manager is soliciting budge
---

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# [Self-Inflicted Budget Difficulties](https://www.conspectusinc.com/blog/2011/10/self-inflicted_budget_difficulties)

 Written by [David Stutzman](https://www.conspectusinc.com/blog/author/david-stutzman) | 10/6/11 6:10 PM

I received the specification shown below from a friend, an independent manufacturer's representative today. Yes this is the total expansion control spec. And a Construction Manager is soliciting budgets from subcontractors and materials suppliers for the project with this spec. This is a case where less (outline spec) is definitely not enough.

**So What is Required**  
There is no mention of the joint size, the type of movement, nor the total movement that must be accommodated. Must the joint accommodate seismic movement? This is a significant cost factor and severely limits the available joint designs. The loading for the floor joint is not specified. Will the joint see pedestrian, pallet jack, or fork truck traffic.

**And Perhaps Superficial, but Still Important**  
Are these joints with metal cover plates or an elastomer seal. If it is a seal, there may not be any exposed metal. Can the retainers holding the seal be extruded aluminum which is the industry standard? Are the joints surface applied, semi-recessed, or flush with the surrounding surfaces. Are the finish materials the same on both sides of the joint? Are corner joints required?

**Keep Your Fingers Crossed**  
I am sure my friend is wondering how to begin and if his budget numbers could possibly be relevant or remotely meaningful. I can see the list of budget qualifications being pages long just for expansion control. And the ultimate Construction Manager product budget? Stay tuned for multiple, dreaded Value Engineering exercises.

**By the Way**  
According to AIA standard agreements, the **Budget **is a document the Owner controls. The project must be designed and constructed to meet the Owner's budget. The Architect provides an **Estimate of the Cost of the Work** and the Contractor provides **Estimates or Bids**. It is best not to confuse budget with estimate.

**SECTION 079502 - INTERIOR EXPANSION CONTROL**

1.1    INTERIOR EXPANSION CONTROL SYSTEMS

A.    Floor-to-Floor

> 1.    Types: To be determined.  
> 2.    Exposed Metal: Stainless steel.  
> 3.    Fire-Resistance Rating: Same as adjacent construction.

B.    Wall-to-Wall Joint Systems:

> 1.    Types: To be determined.  
> 2.    Exposed Metal: Stainless steel.  
> 3.    Fire-Resistance Rating: Same as adjacent construction.

C.    Ceiling-to-Ceiling Joint Systems:

> 1.    Types: To be determined.  
> 2.    Exposed Metal: Stainless steel.  
> 3.    Fire-Resistance Rating: Same as adjacent construction.

**END OF SECTION**

[View full post](https://www.conspectusinc.com/blog/2011/10/self-inflicted_budget_difficulties)

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