In this week’s What a Week, Dave Stutzman, Elias Saltz, and Steve Gantner dive deep into the power of Uniformat-based System and Performance Descriptions (SPDs)—what CSI calls Preliminary Project Descriptions (PPDs). The team reflects on a recent session with Chicago-based Solomon Cordwell Buenz (SCB), who have been using PPDs since 2014, and compare SCB’s “master document” approach with Conspectus’ method of building each SPD from a clean slate.

They unpack how adding elements like basis of design, references, history, and alternatives strengthens decision-making, avoids costly rework, and preserves the project record across rotating teams. The conversation highlights the benefits of tying Uniformat systems to MasterFormat sections, the risks of pushing specs too early, and how SPDs can streamline pricing, coordination, and owner approvals.

The episode closes with a provocative idea: what if a Uniformat-based SPD became the single project document, start to finish? With fewer RFIs, slimmer spec sets, and a clearer trail of decisions, the team makes the case for embracing SPDs as more than “preliminary”—they can be the backbone of an entire project.

In this What a Week episode, Dave Stutzman, Elias Saltz, and Steve Gantner tackle the hot CSI forum debate over “basis of design.” They explore how architects often anchor specs to a single product while allowing equivalents, but warn this can easily slip into a stealth proprietary spec—like when elevator shafts only fit one manufacturer. They stress the importance of consistency across Division 1 requirements, technical sections, and owner standards, and note that overly narrow performance criteria can also exclude competition. Alternatives such as early collaboration and pre-purchasing equipment can streamline decisions and avoid long lead times. Ultimately, the team advises using basis of design sparingly and intentionally, with full awareness of its implications—because as Steve quips, the right answer is often, “it depends.” 

 When it comes to weather-resistant barriers, can a factory-coated OSB panel really stand up to the elements? In this week’s discussion, Dave, Steve, and Elias break down a hot topic from LinkedIn—untreated fasteners in coated OSB WRB panels—and why small installation missteps can lead to big moisture problems. From swelling and mold to vapor drive and double vapor barriers, they explore the risks, alternatives, and “belt-and-suspenders” strategies that keep water out for good. Whether you’re in blazing heat or frigid ice rink conditions, one truth stands: shed the water to the exterior. 

In this episode, the Dave Stutzman, Elias Saltz, & Steve Gantner explore the risks of a custom parapet detail on a seven-story building, where an eyebrow design made of ACM panels is used. They discuss the potential challenges this unique feature poses, especially in terms of wind resistance, drainage, and long-term durability.

The conversation highlights the importance of ensuring compliance with ANSI SPRY ES1 standards for wind load resistance and the potential consequences of relying on sealants for waterproofing. The team also emphasizes how architects can mitigate these risks by working with manufacturers who offer tested, engineered solutions.

Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that while custom designs offer creative possibilities, they must be approached with careful planning, testing, and collaboration to ensure a safe, efficient, and successful project.

When a Proposal Request Takes a Turn
Steve thought it was a straightforward call—a request for a proposal to write specifications. But what started as a typical inquiry quickly veered into unexpected territory. In this episode, we unpack the twists, the questions behind the questions, and what it revealed about the real needs of the project team, and why a systems performance description (SPD) was the perfect fit.

Zoomed Out or Dialed In? Broad vs. Narrow Scope Specs in Construction

When it comes to construction specifications, how much detail is too much—or not enough? In this episode, we unpack the tension between broad scope and narrow scope specs. Should specs paint the big picture or drill down into every nut and bolt?

Tune in as Elias Saltz, Executive Vice President and Senior Specifier, recaps the Master Specifier's Retreat in Milwaukee, WI in July, 2025.  

👉What is his perspective of this event? 
👉Who did he meet?
👉What is new in the industry?
👉Should you join CSI?

Greg Holness wears two powerful hats—engineer and attorney—and he’s spent over 30 years walking the fault lines of construction projects gone sideways. From root cause analysis to expert witness testimony, he’s called in when things don’t go according to plan—whether it’s delays, design flaws, scope creep, or flat-out contract chaos.

But here’s the twist to Greg’s story: he’s not just about pointing fingers. He’s a big believer in resolution over litigation—and he’s got the scars (and stories) to prove it.

In this episode, we’ll unpack how construction disputes unfold, what makes a project truly risk-resilient, and how owners, designers, and contractors can all better navigate the unexpected. 

Let’s get into with our hosts Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner as we Navigate Through Construction Claims & Conflict with Greg Holness.

To spec or not to spec....or HOW to spec.

Architects & Hazardous Waste: Proceed with Caution

AI's Next Asbestos

Whose responsibility is the waste?

Should the architect and specifier be aware of it?

How should you document it?

From a 14 year old kid bending sheet metal in his family's basement, to receiving a lifetime achievement award at 70 years old, Dick Bus of ATAS International, breaks down how to help build the metal industry. 

In this episode, Dick breaks down what it takes to build more than just a successful business. It's about investing in relationships, technology, and education—laying the groundwork not only for growth, but for lasting impact across the metal envelope industry.

Dick shares how healthy competition inspired collaboration, how he read the market to drive product development, and how his greatest secret is surprisingly simple: LISTEN.
Listen to the architect.
Listen to the installer.
Listen to the distributor.
Listen to the industry.

Let’s get into the episode with David Stutzman and Steve Gantner as they chat with Dick Bus and learn more about when you truly hear what’s being said—and combine it with experience, intuition, and trusted relationships—You go from breaking metal, to building a legacy.