The quality of a building product is measured by its
performance in the home, not at the manufacturer’s factory. Between the factory and
the completed home is the trade contractor who installs the product. The trade contractor
is the key to installed product quality and performance.
Product manufacturers can set the foundation for installation
quality by providing quality control tools that ensure proper installation of their
products. Builders and trade contractors can use the following tools on the jobsite to
ensure high product performance in the home:
Detailed Installation Instructions.
These instructions should contain information on
prerequisites for work to start, work steps, dimensions with tolerances, environmental
conditions, specialized tools, storage requirements, and limitations on use. Clarity is
paramount. Including diagrams can help communicate to a diverse workforce.
Manufacturers should avoid impractical requirements that may
undermine builders committed to following specifications. If common installation practice
voids warranties and shifts responsibilities to installers, examine the need for the
requirement carefully. One building product manufacturer eliminated requirements for 48
hour storage on the jobsite after realizing the that builders successfully install their
product on the same day as delivery.
Approved Material Lists.
Specify all materials affecting quality of the installed
product, even if they are supplied by other companies. Refer to specific models or
performance levels so the installer will know what to look for on product labels.
Louisiana-Pacific’s approved material list specifies sealants, nails, primers, and
paint for each of their siding products.
Craftsman Qualification Requirements.
Define the training and experience necessary for skillful
product installation. CertainTeed Corporation recommends that insulation installers
complete their one-day training course and pass a test verifying critical knowledge.
Standard Contracts.
Provide guidelines for clearly defining expectations and
responsibilities of the trade contractor and the builder. This is particularly important
when the building system puts requirements on other trade contractors. For example, a
standard contract for an EIFS siding applicator should state the builder’s
responsibility to follow specifications for flashings and the application of special
sealants.
Jobsite Inspection Forms.
Provide forms that field personnel will use at prescribed
checkpoints to verify conformance to the installation requirements. Each checkpoint should
be used to record critical job conditions, materials used, and the satisfaction of
installation requirements.
Quality Manual.
Define how the above tools are used by builders and trade
contractors. The manual should be consistent with ISO 9000, the international standard for
quality control systems.
Product manufacturers can demonstrate their quality
leadership by providing these quality control tools for use with their products. As a
builder, you can encourage them to do so. The next time a product manufacturer wants to
talk about partnering, suggest partnering on quality.
The NAHB Research Center has established the National Housing
Quality Program for builders and manufacturers who would like to work together to pursue
quality partnerships.