Compare materials on their role in the design, the complete construction and the practical implementation.
Start with the function of the part
First choose what the part should do: wear, separate, insulate, retain water or finish. A product can have multiple functions, but that does not make it suitable for every location in the building. A constructive application requires different information than a decorative covering. Therefore describe the circumstances, surface, load and desired performance. Then use the design to compare suitable systems.
Compare the complete structure
A wall, floor or roof usually consists of several layers with connections. The performance does not follow exclusively from the best feature of one product. Insulation, airtightness, fire behaviour, moisture and acoustics must match each other. Ask which system structure is intended by the supplier and which mountings or peripheral details are associated with it. Place alternatives with the same function side by side, so that the comparison goes beyond price per sheet or meter.
What information belongs on the materials list?
Include product type, quality, dimensions, quantities, unit and the associated drawing revision for each part. Add necessary connections, protection and finishing. Indicate which data is still missing or provisional. The supplier can then specifically indicate what his offer includes. A size from an initial sketch must remain recognizably provisional and must not end up in the order unnoticed as a final production size.
Consider delivery and installation
Check available access, transport dimensions, storage conditions and the chosen assembly sequence with the contractor. A product that technically fits may be difficult to handle on site. Some parts require specific storage or protection before assembly. Also discuss how tolerances of existing construction are processed. The constructive and architectural elaboration must match the actual selected products and the agreed implementation.
Choose an alternative product
In case of limited availability, a supplier can offer an alternative. Then don't just compare brand or nominal size. Material properties, mountings, boundary conditions and performance may differ. Let the designer involved assess whether the alternative is suitable and which documents need to be adjusted. Record the decision before ordering. This makes it clear which specification was used in the design and which product was ultimately delivered.
Save the information for later
Link product sheets, ordering data and relevant implementation information to the completed parts. This helps with maintenance, replacement and subsequent renovations. Also save data from hidden connections and layers if it is difficult to verify later. Use a clear layout per building section. A complete materials list is therefore both an aid for ordering and a useful part of the final construction file.
Your preparation in four steps
- Function and required performance per component
- Product specifications and quantities
- Connections and necessary protection
- Current drawing revision and delivery agreements
Frequently asked questions on this topic
Is one assignment useful for multiple constructive interventions?
A coherent assignment helps to assess shared carrying routes and connections. Make an overview of all interventions and record which parts are being developed. The exact division of tasks remains important when different suppliers provide their own calculations.
How do I keep track of changes from different parties?
Work with one document list and appoint a contact person for coordination. Record which drawings, parts and suppliers are affected for each change. Share decisions in a timely manner with everyone who produces or implements based on that data.
View the associated structural calculation, create your preparation list or take the guides and checklists along to the consultation.