Division 09 Finishes is a commonly used specification section in construction projects covering a wide range of building materials and products. The specific sections within Division 09 can vary depending on the project and its requirements, but the most common sections found within Division 09 include:
Section 09 01 00 Maintenance of Finishes: This section covers the requirements for maintaining and cleaning various types of finishes, including paints, coatings, wallcoverings, and flooring.
Section 09 20 00 Plaster and Gypsum Board: This section covers the installation of plaster and gypsum board products, including drywall, Plaster, and other finishing materials.
Section 09 21 16 Gypsum Board Assemblies: This section covers the installation of gypsum board assemblies, including fire-rated assemblies, sound-rated assemblies, and moisture-resistant assemblies.
Section 09 30 00 Tiling: This section covers the installation of various types of tile materials, such as ceramic, stone, and glass.
Section 09 50 00 Ceilings: This section covers the installation of various types of ceiling systems, including suspended, acoustical, and specialty ceilings.
Section 09 60 00 Flooring: This section covers the installation of various types of flooring materials, such as carpet, wood, tile, and vinyl.
Section 09 70 00 Wall Finishes: This section covers the installation of various types of wall finishes, such as paint, wallpaper, paneling, and acoustic treatments.
Section 09 80 00 Acoustic Treatment: This section covers the installation of acoustic treatment materials, including absorptive, diffusive, and reflective treatments.
Section 09 90 00 Painting and Coating: This section covers the application of various types of paint and coating materials to surfaces, including interior and exterior walls, ceilings, and floors.
Section 09 96 00 High-Performance Coatings: This section covers the installation of high-performance coatings that offer superior durability, weather resistance, and chemical resistance. Examples include epoxy coatings, polyurethane coatings, and fluoropolymer coatings.
Section 09 97 00 Special Coatings: This section covers the installation of special coatings that serve specific purposes, such as anti-graffiti coatings, fire-retardant coatings, and thermal barrier coatings.
Section 09 98 00 Concrete Finishing: This section covers the finishing of concrete surfaces, including staining, polishing, and sealing.
Section 09 99 00 Special Finishes: This section covers the installation of special finishes that provide unique aesthetic or functional benefits, such as murals, decorative Plaster, and metal coatings.
If there's one thing to take away from this blog post, it's the importance of following the correct approval procedures for mock-ups and samples. Failing to do so can wreak havoc on your job profits. I cannot stress enough that it's crucial to pay close attention to the submittal process for each section within Division 09 and any project-specific requirements provided by the architect or engineer. By doing so, you can help ensure that the final product meets the desired quality standards and design intent while minimizing the risk of costly delays or rework. For more on this, click here.
Section 09 01 00 Maintenance of Finishes:
This section aims to ensure that the finishes in a building are properly maintained and preserved, which can help extend their lifespan and reduce the need for costly repairs or replacements. To achieve this, the 09 01 00 spec section outlines the standards and requirements for maintaining the appearance and condition of the finishes in a building. If you didn't know already, finishes refer to the materials used to cover surfaces such as walls, ceilings, floors, and other exposed surfaces. Examples of finishes include paints, coatings, wallcoverings, and flooring materials.
This section provides instructions on cleaning and maintaining these finishes to ensure they look good and function properly. For example, it may provide guidelines for cleaning painted surfaces, such as using mild detergents and avoiding abrasive cleaners, to prevent fading. It may also provide instructions on removing stains from carpets or maintaining the shine on hardwood floors.
Section 09 20 00 Plaster and Gypsum Board:
Also known as drywall, Plaster, and gypsum board was invented in the early 20th century and quickly became a popular material for creating interior walls and ceilings due to its ease of installation and fire-resistant properties.
This spec section lists the requirements for installing and finishing Plaster and gypsum board in a building. Plaster is a material made from Gypsum, water, and sand that is used to cover and finish walls and ceilings.
The section provides guidelines for installing Plaster and gypsum board, including requirements for framing, fastening, and finishing these materials. In addition, it will list the Plaster or gypsum board type to be used, the material's thickness and requirements for fire resistance, soundproofing, and other special features.
Drywall is used on pretty much every project in some shape or fashion because it will provide a smooth and even surface that can be painted or decorated as desired. It is also cheap to repair and modify if needed, and as a bonus, it is a sustainable material that can be recycled and reused in new construction projects.
Did you know Gypsum is a mineral that is found in sedimentary rocks around the world and right here in the USA? And Plaster has been used in construction for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egypt and Rome.
Section 09 21 16 Gypsum Board Assemblies:
So this specification outlines the installation of complete wall and ceiling systems using gypsum board panels and associated components such as framing, insulation, finishes, and accessories.
While it may seem similar to section 09 20 00 Plaster and Gypsum Board, the key difference is that section 09 21 16 provides specific requirements and details for the complete assembly. In contrast, section 09 20 00 focuses more on the materials themselves and their installation and finishing.
For example, a gypsum board assembly specification may include details on the type of materials to use, the spacing and screw pattern for framing, and the use of vapor barriers, sound barriers, and fireproofing at penetrations to complete the entire wall or ceiling.
An example of a gypsum board assembly could be a shaft wall in an elevator.
By providing specific details on the installation of these assemblies, section 09 21 16 ensures that the finished product meets the required performance standards and is suitable for its intended use.
Section 09 30 00 Tiling:
Ok, we all know what tiles are and that they are easy to clean and maintain, which is why they are so commonly used in construction, but did you know that the use of tiles in construction dates back thousands of years to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans? In fact, some of the earliest known examples of tile installations can be found in the ruins of Pompeii, which was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD.
The ancient Romans were mainly known for their extensive use of tiles in building construction, both for functional purposes such as flooring and roofing and for decorative purposes. They used various materials for their tiles, including clay, stone, and glass, and developed sophisticated techniques for creating intricate patterns and designs.
Over time, the use of tiles in construction spread throughout Europe and the Middle East, with various regions developing their own unique styles and techniques. In the modern era, the use of tiles in construction has continued to evolve and expand, with new materials and technologies allowing for even more creative and durable installations.
Overall, using tiles in construction has a long and rich history, with countless examples of beautiful and innovative installations from around the world. So the next time you review a tile submittal against the specs, take a moment to appreciate how cool tiles actually are and the insane historical use of them in construction throughout the ages.
Section 09 50 00 Ceilings:
Basically, when people build a building or renovate a space, they need to think about what kind of ceiling they want to install. Ceilings can be made from different materials, such as Plaster, drywall, metal, or wood, and they can have different designs, like a smooth finish or a textured pattern.
Section 09 50 00 provides a set of guidelines for contractors to follow when installing ceilings. It covers everything from the type of materials that can be used, to the tools and equipment needed, to the techniques for installation.
Ceilings can also serve other purposes besides just covering the top of a room. For example, some ceilings can be designed to improve acoustics, which means they can help reduce noise and improve sound quality in a room. Other ceilings can be designed to be fire-resistant, which can help protect people and property in case of a fire.
Another important aspect of ceiling installation is making sure they are properly supported and attached to the building's structure. This helps ensure that the ceiling stays in place and doesn't fall down, which could be dangerous.
Section 09 60 00 Flooring:
When people build a building or renovate a space, they also need to think about what kind of flooring they want to install. Flooring can be made from different materials, such as wood, tile, carpet, or concrete, and they can have different finishes, like glossy or matte.
Section 09 60 00 provides a set of guidelines for contractors to follow when installing flooring. It covers everything from the type of materials that can be used, to the tools and equipment needed, to the techniques for installation.
Different types of flooring are better suited for different areas of a building. For example, carpet is often used in bedrooms or living areas because it's soft and comfortable to walk on, while tile or concrete is often used in bathrooms or kitchens because it's easy to clean and resistant to moisture.
Another important aspect of flooring installation is making sure it's level and smooth. This not only makes it look better, but it also helps prevent tripping hazards and ensures that furniture and other items sit correctly on the floor.
Additionally, some types of flooring can also be designed to be slip-resistant, which can help prevent accidents and injuries.
Section 09 70 00 Wall Finishes:
Wall finishes outline what your walls will look like when they are finished! Wall finishes can be made from different materials, such as paint, wallpaper, tile, or wood, and they can have different textures or designs.
Section 09 70 00 provides a set of guidelines for contractors to follow when installing wall finishes. It covers everything from the type of materials that can be used, to the tools and equipment needed, to the techniques for installation.
Wall finishes can significantly impact the overall look and feel of a space. For example, a brightly colored wall can make a room feel more energetic, while a neutral color can make a room feel more calm and peaceful. Similarly, a textured wall can add visual interest and depth to a space.
Another important aspect of wall finish installation is making sure it's properly prepared before applying the finish. This means ensuring that the wall is clean, smooth, and free of any defects or damage that could affect the appearance of the finish.
In addition, some wall finishes can also have functional benefits. For example, certain paints can be washable or resistant to stains, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas or spaces prone to getting dirty.
Section 09 80 00 Acoustic Treatment:
This section takes into account the acoustic properties of the area. The way sound behaves in a space is affected by the type of surfaces in the room, such as walls, ceilings, and floors. Acoustic treatment involves using specialized materials and techniques to control the sound quality in a space.
Section 09 80 00 provides a set of guidelines for contractors to follow when installing acoustic treatment. It covers everything from the type of materials that can be used, to the
tools and equipment needed, to the techniques for installation.
Different types of acoustic treatments are better suited to different kinds of spaces. For example, a concert hall would require a different acoustic treatment than a recording studio. Acoustic treatment can also be used in non-musical spaces, such as offices, classrooms, or restaurants, to improve speech intelligibility and reduce noise levels.
Another aspect of acoustic treatment is that it can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Acoustic panels, for example, can come in various colors and patterns, enhancing the visual appeal of a space while improving its acoustic quality.
Additionally, acoustic treatment can help address health concerns related to noise exposure. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can cause hearing damage and other health problems, so controlling noise levels through acoustic treatment can help promote a safer and healthier environment.
Section 09 90 00 Painting and Coating:
Painting and coating serve two primary purposes: aesthetic and functional. Aesthetically, painting and coating can enhance the appearance of a building's interior and exterior surfaces.
This can create a more pleasant and welcoming environment for those who live, work, or visit the building. Additionally, painting and coating can help protect surfaces from damage due to weather, wear, and tear, or other factors.
The functional benefits of painting and coating include protection against corrosion, fire, and mold. In addition, specialized coatings can be used to make surfaces more resistant to extreme temperatures, chemicals, or moisture. This can extend the lifespan of the building and reduce maintenance costs over time.
Another vital consideration outlined in the spec section for painting and coating is surface preparation. Proper surface preparation, such as cleaning and sanding, is critical to achieving a high-quality finish that will adhere well to the surface. The type of paint or coating system used will also depend on the specific surface being treated and the environmental conditions to which it will be exposed.
Section 09 96 00 High-Performance Coatings:
High-performance coatings are a specialized type of coating that are designed to provide superior protection and durability in harsh environments. Unlike traditional paint and coatings noted above, high-performance coatings are engineered to withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, chemicals, and abrasion. So in summary, Section 09 96 00 for High-Performance Coatings is focused on the use of specialized coatings that provide superior protection and durability in harsh environments to provide functional benefits beyond aesthetics.
For example, let's say a factory has a floor that is constantly exposed to heavy machinery and chemicals. In this case, a high-performance coating would be the best choice to protect the floor and keep it looking new. High-performance coatings can also be used on metal surfaces to protect against corrosion and rust, or on roofs to reflect sunlight and reduce cooling costs.
High-performance coatings are often used in industrial and commercial settings where traditional paint and coatings may not provide sufficient protection. They are also used in specialized applications such as aerospace and marine industries, where the coatings must meet strict requirements for durability and performance.
While traditional paint and coatings are used primarily for aesthetic purposes, high-performance coatings are used to provide functional benefits such as protection, durability, and longevity. Due to their advanced properties, they require specialized knowledge and equipment to apply correctly and can be more expensive than traditional paint and coatings.
Section 09 97 00 Special Coatings:
Ok, wait a minute, another coatings spec? How can this be different, and how can I tell the differences between all these coating types?
Let me explain
Section 09 97 00 for Special Coatings is similar to Section 09 90 00 for Painting and Coating and Section 09 96 00 for High-Performance Coatings in that it also deals with the application of coatings on surfaces of buildings. However, this section is more focused on specialized coatings that have unique properties and are used for specific purposes.
Special coatings can include everything from anti-graffiti coatings to electrostatic discharge coatings, each with its own unique application and properties. These coatings are designed to meet specific needs that traditional paint and coatings cannot. For example, anti-graffiti coatings are formulated to prevent graffiti from sticking to the surface and making it easier to clean off, while electrostatic discharge coatings are used to protect sensitive electronic equipment from static discharge.
While high-performance coatings provide superior protection and durability in harsh environments, special coatings provide specialized properties and features that traditional paint and coatings cannot. As a result, they are often used in niche applications and require technical knowledge and equipment to apply properly.
In summary, Section 09 97 00 for Special Coatings focuses on using specialized coatings that provide unique properties and features for specific applications. Therefore, it differs from Section 09 90 00 for Painting and Coating and Section 09 96 00 for High-Performance Coatings because it focuses more on meeting specific needs and requirements rather than providing general protection or durability.
Section 09 98 00 Concrete Finishing:
This section deals with the finishing of concrete surfaces to achieve a smooth and attractive appearance. Concrete is a popular building material used for a variety of applications, including floors, walls, and exterior surfaces. However, concrete surfaces can be rough and unattractive, so concrete finishing is used to improve their appearance and performance.
It can involve a range of techniques, such as staining, polishing, or applying a sealer. Each technique is used to achieve a specific look or performance characteristic. For example, staining can be used to create a decorative finish with a variety of colors, while polishing can give the surface a smooth and shiny appearance. Sealers are used to protect the surface from damage and wear.
The finishing of concrete surfaces requires specialized knowledge and equipment to achieve the desired results. The concrete surface must be properly prepared before finishing can begin. This may involve cleaning, grinding, or smoothing the surface to remove any imperfections.
Concrete finishing is often used in both commercial and residential construction projects to improve the appearance and functionality of concrete surfaces. For example, polished concrete floors have become a popular choice for modern commercial spaces due to their durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal.
Super important to look for in this spec is The mock-up approval process. It is crucial when it comes to concrete finishes. It involves creating a sample of the final finish, which is reviewed and approved before the actual installation begins. This ensures the finish meets the desired quality and design standards. It's important to pay close attention to the quality of the finish during the mock-up approval process to prevent costly delays or rework later on. For more about mock-ups and submittals, click here.
Section 09 99 00 Special Finishes:
Special Finishes is concerned with using unique and eye-catching finishes on building surfaces. These finishes can create a unique visual appeal and help set a building apart from others in the surrounding area.
It can outline a wide range of techniques and materials, such as artwork, decorative tiles, specialized coatings, and textured surfaces. When applied correctly, special finishes can create a unique and visually appealing aesthetic that can help attract visitors or customers.
Artwork applied to a large part of a structure can be a significant draw in terms of building attractiveness. Murals, graffiti, and other forms of artwork can be used to add color, personality, and vibrancy to an otherwise bland or utilitarian surface. This has become an increasingly popular trend in all manner of buildings in the past decade. These finishes can also create a sense of place, reflecting the history, culture, or personality of the community in which the building is located.