Common Steel Spec Mistakes We See on Commercial Projects (and How to Avoid Them)

Common Steel Spec Mistakes We See on Commercial Projects (and How to Avoid Them)

Steel specifications are often written early in a project, long before pricing, lead times, or fabrication realities are fully understood. While most specs are technically sound, small oversights can create unnecessary cost, delays, or rework once material is ordered and processed.

Here are some of the most common steel specification issues we see on commercial projects—and how to avoid them.

Over-Specifying Material Grades

One of the most frequent issues is specifying higher-strength or specialty grades where they aren’t functionally required. While conservative specs may feel safer, they often limit material availability and increase cost without improving performance.

Matching the steel grade to the actual structural or architectural requirement—rather than defaulting to the highest option—helps control pricing and lead time while still meeting code and engineering needs.

Missing or Incomplete Finish Requirements

Finish callouts are often vague or assumed, especially when steel will be exposed. When coating type, surface prep, or appearance expectations aren’t clearly defined, assumptions fill the gap—and those assumptions don’t always align across suppliers, fabricators, and installers.

Clear finish specifications help avoid rework, change orders, and disputes later in the project.

Tolerances That Don’t Match the Application

Tight tolerances are sometimes specified across an entire scope, even when only certain components require that level of precision. This can drive up processing costs and limit fabrication methods unnecessarily.

Identifying which parts truly require tight tolerances—and which do not—allows for more efficient cutting and fabrication decisions without sacrificing performance.

Not Accounting for Fabrication and Handling

Specs often focus on the final installed condition without considering how steel will be cut, handled, transported, or assembled. Hole placement, part size, and sequencing can all affect fabrication efficiency and jobsite execution.

When specs acknowledge fabrication realities, projects tend to move more smoothly from material order to installation.

Involving Steel Too Late in the Process

Many issues stem from steel suppliers and processors being brought in only after specs are finalized. Early input can help flag availability concerns, suggest alternative grades or processing methods, and identify cost-saving adjustments before drawings are locked.

Even brief early coordination can prevent delays and reduce total project cost.

Building Better Specs

Most steel spec issues aren’t mistakes so much as missed opportunities for alignment. Clear grades, realistic tolerances, defined finishes, and early coordination all help ensure that steel moves efficiently from specification to installation.

If you’re working on a commercial project in Nashville or across the Southeast, we’re always happy to review steel specs, answer processing questions, or help identify potential issues before material is ordered.