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 and 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 such as sealants, nails, primers, etc. affecting the 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.

Craftsman Qualification Requirements.

Define the training, licensure, and experience necessary for skillful product installation.

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 a siding applicator should state the builder’s responsibility to follow specifications for flashings and the application of special sealants.

Jobsite Inspection Forms.

Include 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. 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 National Housing Quality Program provides a comprehensive method for such partnering for builders, trade contractors, and manufacturers who would like to work together to pursue quality partnerships.

For more information on effective ways to enhance partnerships on the jobsite, visit the National Housing Quality program pages at www.nahbrc.org/quality or contact Don Carr, NHQ Builder program manager.

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