# Manufacturer or Product Substitution in Division 32 Exterior Improvements submittals

> Source: https://deviationcheck.com/divisions/32-exterior-improvements/manufacturer-substitution/

The submittal proposes a different manufacturer or product than the spec names, without an approved or-equal or substitution request.

## What to look for in Division 32 Exterior Improvements

Site improvement specs frequently name brand products or approved manufacturers. Look for:
- Asphalt mix design source plant substitution (mix design is plant-specific; different plant requires new mix design approval)
- Concrete mix design batch plant substitution (requires re-submitted batch plant certification)
- Irrigation controller manufacturer swaps (Rain Bird, Hunter, Toro, Weathermatic) where integration with existing controls is specified
- Irrigation head brand changes (Rain Bird vs Hunter vs Toro) affecting precipitation rate matching and part-circle patterns
- Site furnishing manufacturer substitutions (benches, bike racks, trash receptacles, bollards) where specified product sets aesthetic and dimensional standard
- Fencing system manufacturer swaps (Ameristar, Merchants Metals, Master Halco) especially for ornamental iron or security fencing
- Plant nursery source substitution where local provenance or specific grower is specified
- Synthetic turf manufacturer swaps (FieldTurf, Shaw, Hellas, AstroTurf) where specified product has proprietary shock pad system
- Rubberized track surface manufacturer substitution (Beynon, Mondo, Rekortan)

## Severity

Default grade: Blocker. Drops to a Note if the submittal attaches an or-equal approval letter from the architect of record.