Division 03 Concrete
Performance Specification Gap in Division 03 Concrete submittals
Short answer
A measurable performance property in the submittal (rating, capacity, tolerance, efficiency) does not meet what the spec requires. Default grade in Division 03 Concrete: Blocker.
A measurable performance property in the submittal (rating, capacity, tolerance, efficiency) does not meet what the spec requires. This guide covers how it shows up specifically in Division 03 Concrete submittals.
What to look for in Division 03 Concrete
Key performance parameters in concrete submittals:
- Compressive strength (f'c) in psi at 28 days (most common: 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000 psi)
- Slump range in inches (typical 4-6 inches for conventional, higher for SCC)
- Air content percentage (4-7% for freeze-thaw exposure per ACI 318)
- Water-to-cementite ratio (w/cm) maximum per exposure class
- Chloride ion content limit for reinforced concrete (ACI 318 Table 19.3.2.1)
- Flexural strength (modulus of rupture) for pavements and slabs
- Modulus of elasticity where specified
- Rebar yield strength grade (Grade 60 = 60 ksi, Grade 75, Grade 80)
- Rebar size and spacing vs structural drawings
- Concrete cover dimensions per ACI 318 Table 20.6.1
- Fiber dosage rate (lb/cy) for fiber-reinforced concrete
- Shrinkage limit (ASTM C157 microstrain at 28 days)
- Unit weight for lightweight concrete (typically 110-120 pcf)
- Permeability (coulombs per ASTM C1202 for low-permeability concrete)
How severe is it?
Default grade: Blocker. Always a Blocker when the gap touches life-safety or structural performance.
Deviation Check assigns a default per category and escalates or de-escalates based on the spec, always showing its reasoning. See the Division 03 severity rules.
What the PM should do
Treat this as a hold. Do not approve the submittal until the sub resolves it, either by providing the specified product and documentation or by routing an approved substitution or or-equal request. Return the relevant spec passage to the sub as a redline.
Other deviation categories in Division 03
Frequently asked questions
Which compressive strength and rebar grade values most often appear as performance gaps in Division 03 Concrete submittals?
Compressive strength (f'c) at 28 days is the most common gap - specs typically require 3000, 4000, 5000, or 6000 psi and any shortfall is a structural Blocker. Rebar yield strength is the next most frequent: Grade 60 at 60 ksi is standard, but some specs call for Grade 75 or Grade 80. A submittal showing a lower grade than required must be rejected before fabrication begins.
Does a water-to-cementite ratio above the spec maximum count as a Blocker in a concrete submittal?
Yes. The w/cm maximum is set by ACI 318 exposure class and directly controls durability and permeability. Exceeding it is always a structural performance gap. The same applies to air content outside the 4-7% range required for freeze-thaw exposure and to chloride ion content above the ACI 318 Table 19.3.2.1 limit for reinforced concrete. All three touch life-safety or structural performance and stay Blockers.
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