CSI MasterFormat: A Guide to Construction Divisions

The construction industry in the United States relies heavily on a standardized system for organizing construction documents and specifications.

This system, known as the CSI MasterFormat, is a product of the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI).

What is CSI MasterFormat?

CSI MasterFormat is a framework that categorizes construction information into a standard order. This system is primarily used for organizing project manuals and detailed specifications for construction projects.

CSI MasterFormat tool is used by architects, engineers, developers, general contractors and subcontractors ensuring everyone speaks the same language when it comes to residential, commercial, industrial and public sector construction projects.

The Divisions of CSI MasterFormat

The CSI MasterFormat is divided into various sections commonly known as CSI Divisions. Each division covers a specific area of construction including general requirements to more specific elements like electrical, concrete, masonry or plumbing work.

These divisions ensure a comprehensive approach to construction planning and execution.

Explaining CSI MasterFormat 16 Divisions :

Division 00 – Procurement and Contracting Requirements

Division 00 - Subcategories

00 01 00 – Solicitation for Bids
00 02 00 – Instructions for Procurement
00 03 00 – Bid Forms
00 04 00 – Contract Forms
00 05 00 – General Conditions of the Contract
00 06 00 – Supplementary Conditions
00 07 00 – Specifications
00 08 00 – Schedule of Values
00 09 00 – Modifications to Contract Documents
00 10 00 – Project Overview

Procurement is the process of buying supplies and services for construction projects. It’s crucial for construction companies to carefully handle procurement to complete projects efficiently and within budget.

This division includes bid solicitation, contract agreements, and conditions, ensuring that all procurement and contracting aspects are clearly defined and legally binding.

Invitation to Bid: Formal invitation document detailing project scope, timelines and submission requirements for potential contractors.
Instructions to Bidders: Specific guidelines for bidders on how to prepare and submit their bids, along with criteria for qualification.
Contract Agreements: Legal documents establishing the binding agreement between the owner and contractor, covering terms, obligations and scope.

General and Supplementary Conditions: Outline the general project requirements, such as legal responsibilities, time frames and supplementary project specific conditions.
Addenda and Modifications: Any additional information or changes to the original contract documents during the bidding phase.
Notice to Proceed: Official start notice that allows the contractor to begin work on the project, marking the project commencement.

Division 01 – General Requirements

Division 01 - Subcategories

01 10 00 – Summary of Work
01 20 00 – Price and Payment Procedures
01 30 00 – Administrative Requirements
01 40 00 – Quality Requirements
01 50 00 – Temporary Facilities and Controls
01 60 00 – Product Requirements
01 70 00 – Execution and Closeout Requirements

General Requirements specify how organizations and trades involved in a project should operate. This includes submittals, schedules, LEED requirements, payments, permits, safety checks, daily logs, RFIs, meetings, and project documentation.

Division 01 ensures that all administrative and procedural aspects are managed efficiently, providing a structured approach to project management and coordination.

Project Management and Coordination: Protocols for communication, meetings and scheduling to streamline project progress.
Quality Control and Quality Assurance: Procedures for inspections, testing and approvals to maintain high construction standards.
Submittal Procedures: Requirements for submitting shop drawings, product data and samples to confirm compliance with specifications.
Payment Procedures: Guidelines for invoicing, progress payments and retainage policies.
Temporary Facilities and Controls: Specifies onsite facilities like temporary power, sanitary services and safety provisions.
Construction Waste Management: Methods for proper disposal and recycling of construction materials.
Project Closeout: Procedures for finalizing the project, including punch lists, final inspections and warranties.

Division 02 – Existing Conditions

Division 02 - Subcategories

02 10 00 – Assessment
02 20 00 – Surveying
02 30 00 – Site Remediation
02 40 00 – Demolition and Structure Moving

This division involves evaluating the site, including demolishing buildings, cleaning up contamination, and assessing land areas that may impact future projects. It covers geophysical investigations, site decontamination and building deconstruction.

Site Surveys and Investigation: Examination of existing conditions, topographical surveys and utility mapping.
Demolition and Selective Demolition: Safe and environmentally sound removal of existing structure or part of structure.
Site Decontamination: Identification and removal of hazardous materials including asbestos or lead for safe site for construction.
Remediation and Stabilization: Soil stabilization, water table management and remediation efforts to prepare a stable foundation.

Division 03 – Concrete

Division 03 - Subcategories

03 10 00 – Concrete Forming
03 20 00 – Concrete Reinforcing
03 30 00 – Cast-in-Place Concrete
03 40 00 – Precast Concrete
03 50 00 – Cast Concrete Paving

Division 03 Concrete covers concrete materials, admixtures, reinforcement, shaping, handling, finishing, and maintenance. It includes detailed specifications for forming, placing and curing concrete to ensure structural integrity and durability.

Concrete Formwork and Reinforcement: Design and installation of temporary molds and reinforcing steel to shape and strengthen concrete.
Casting Place Concrete: Onsite poured concrete used for foundations, floors and structural walls.
Precast Concrete: Factory manufactured concrete components.
Post Tensioned Concrete: Concrete with steel cables or tendons that are tensioned post installation to add more strength and durability.
Concrete Finishes: Various surface finishes including polished, stamped or broom finishes, based on required specifications.
Curing and Grouting: Methods for curing concrete to reach full strength and grouting techniques for filling gaps and enhance stability.

Division 04 – Masonry

Division 04 - Subcategories

04 10 00 – Unit Masonry
04 20 00 – Concrete Unit Masonry
04 30 00 – Stone Assemblies

Masonry involves using single units like brick, stone, and concrete blocks to construct buildings. This division specifies materials and methods for masonry assembly, including mortar, grout, and reinforcement techniques.

Brick Masonry: Construction using individual bricks for durability and long life.
Concrete Block Masonry: Cost effective and utilizes concrete blocks for walls and structures.
Stone Masonry: Includes natural or engineered stone for a visual appeal and durable finish.
Mortar and Grout: Material selection and mixing requirements for bonding masonry units and reinforcing strength.
Masonry Restoration and Cleaning: Techniques for cleaning, repairing and restoring older masonry to preserve historical or aesthetic value.

Division 05 – Metals

Division 05 - Subcategories

05 10 00 – Structural Steel Framing
05 20 00 – Metal Joists
05 30 00 – Metal Decking
05 40 00 – Cold-Formed Metal Framing

Metals are used in structural steel and various building components like roofs, floors, stairs, and decorative elements. This division includes specifications for metal fabrication, welding, and erection processes.

Structural Steel Framing: Beams, columns and frameworks used for structural strength of large buildings.
Steel Joists and Decking: Lightweight steel components that provide horizontal support for floors and roofs.
Metal Fabrications: Custom metals including stairs, handrails and ladders designed for functionality and style.
Ornamental Metals: Decorative metal components including railings and gates, used for aesthetic appeal.
Cold Formed Metal Framing: Lightweight framing suitable for non structural partitions and exterior wall framing.

Division 06 – Wood, Plastics, Composites

Division 06 - Subcategories

06 10 00 – Rough Carpentry
06 20 00 – Finish Carpentry
06 30 00 – Wood Treated
06 40 00 – Architectural Woodwork

Wood, plastics, and composites serve as structural, non-structural, and finish materials in construction, each with unique properties. This division covers carpentry, millwork, and the installation of plastic components.

Rough Farming: Structural wood components like framing, sheathing and temporary supports.
Finish Carpentry: Decorative woodwork including moldings, trims and custom woodwork.
Architectural Woodwork and Millwork: Detailed and customized woodwork that enhance a building’s interior.
Laminated Wood and Timber: Engineered wood products like plywood and laminated beams for additional strength and stability.
Plastic and Composite Materials: Durable, weather resistant materials including PVC or fiber reinforced plastic for specific applications.

Division 07 – Thermal and Moisture Protection

Division 07 - Subcategories

07 10 00 – Dampproofing and Waterproofing
07 20 00 – Thermal Insulation
07 30 00 – Shingles and Roofing Tiles
07 40 00 – Roofing and Siding Panels

This division deals with materials that protect buildings from moisture, thermal issues, air infiltration, and insulation, including roofing and waterproofing. It includes specifications for insulation, vapor barriers, and sealants.

Insulation: Thermal, sound and fire resistant insulation materials to improve energy efficiency.
Waterproofing and Damp proofing: Protective layers to prevent water leakage in below grade and above grade areas.
Roofing Systems: Complete roofing work including single ply, built up and shingle roofs.
Air Barriers and Vapor Retarders: Prevent air and moisture to reduce energy costs and structural damage.
Joint Sealants: Fillers for gaps between building materials to prevent moisture penetration and maintain airtight seals.

Division 08 – Openings

Division 08 - Subcategories

08 10 00 – Doors and Frames
08 20 00 – Windows
08 30 00 – Specialty Doors and Frames

Openings include windows, doors, glazing systems, and hardware, covering their installation, maintenance, and repair. This division ensures proper fitting and functionality of all building openings.

Doors: Every type of doors including wood, metal and glass, designed for both aesthetic and security purposes.
Frames and Jambs: Structural component that support and frame openings.
Windows and Skylights: Natural light and ventilation sources with various options for energy efficiency.
Door Hardware: Essential fittings like locks, hinges and handles.
Louvers and Vents: Ventilation components that facilitate airflow.

Division 09 – Finishes

Division 09 - Subcategories

09 10 00 – Gypsum Board
09 20 00 – Plaster and Gypsum Board
09 30 00 – Tiling
09 50 00 – Flooring
09 60 00 – Wall Finishes
09 90 00 – Painting and Coating

Finishes encompass interior elements like drywall, ceiling, flooring and paint, describing their installation and future developments. It includes specifications for plastering, tiling, and specialty coatings.

Gypsum Board and Plaster: Drywall and ceiling construction materials, providing smooth, paint ready surfaces and sound insulation.
Floor Finishes: Various types of floor coverings including tiles, carpets, wood and resilient flooring.
Ceiling Finishes: Suspended ceilings that improve sound control, lighting integration and overall room ambiance.
Wall Coverings and Treatments: Finishes like wallpaper, paneling and other decorative treatments.
Paints, Coatings and Finishes: Surface treatments to protect and color walls, floors and ceilings with options for fire resistance and durability.

Division 10 – Specialties

Division 10 - Subcategories

10 10 00 – Visual Display Boards
10 20 00 – Partitions
10 30 00 – Grilles and Screens

Specialties include bathroom accessories, signs, fire safety equipment, and other essential items for various projects. This division covers a wide range of unique building features that support functionality and safety.

Toilet and Bath Accessories: Bathroom fittings including paper holders, mirrors, hand dryers and towel dispensers.
Partitions: Movable and fixed partitions for bathrooms, offices and specialized areas.
Signage: Wayfinding and informational signs including ADA compliant and emergency exit signage.
Lockers and Shelving: Storage solutions for various spaces, designed for durability and security.

Division 11 – Equipment

Division 11 - Subcategories

11 10 00 – Vehicle Service Equipment
11 20 00 – Commercial Equipment
11 30 00 – Residential Equipment

Equipment covers everything a building may require, such as parking control, security, offices, and healthcare equipment. It includes detailed specifications for the installation and maintenance of various equipment.

Kitchen Equipment: Cooking, refrigeration and preparation equipment.
Medical Equipment: Diagnostic, surgical and lab equipment for healthcare facilities.
Parking and Security Equipment: Parking barriers, access control systems and surveillance tools.
Loading Dock Equipment: Dock levelers and lifts.
Waste Management Equipment: Compactors and recycling systems to manage waste efficiently.

Division 12 – Furnishings

Division 12 - Subcategories

12 10 00 – Art
12 20 00 – Window Treatments
12 30 00 – Casework

Furnishings are decorative items installed in finished spaces, enhancing aesthetics and functionality. This division includes specifications for furniture, window treatments, and casework.

Casework and Cabinetry: Custom or prefabricated cabinetry for kitchens, offices and storage.
Window Treatments: Blinds, shades and curtains.
Seating and Furniture: Movable furniture such as chairs, desks and tables.
Artwork and Decorative Items: Paintings, sculptures, or murals and rugs and Mats.

Division 13 – Special Construction

Division 13 - Subcategories

13 10 00 – Special Structures
13 20 00 – Fabricated Structures

Special Construction addresses unique building purposes and complex construction specifications. It covers areas like pre-engineered structures, clean rooms and soundproofing.

Clean Rooms and Controlled Environments: Spaces with strict air quality and contamination controls, used in labs, healthcare and manufacturing.
Swimming Pools and Fountains: Design and construction of water features, ensuring proper waterproofing, plumbing and aesthetics.
Saunas and Steam Rooms: Wellness facilities requiring temperature and humidity control systems.
Pre engineered Structures: Modular or prefabricated buildings for rapid deployment and installation.
Sound, Radiation or Vibration Control: Materials and systems designed to minimize unwanted noise, radiation, or vibrations.

Division 14 – Conveying Equipment

Division 14 - Subcategories

14 10 00 – Dumbwaiters
14 20 00 – Elevators
14 30 00 – Escalators

Conveying equipment moves materials within buildings, including elevators and conveyor belts. This division includes specifications for the installation and maintenance of these systems.

Elevators: Passenger and freight elevators with various control and safety features.
Escalators and Moving Walkways: Moving pathways for high capacity areas, such as airports or malls.
Dumbwaiters and Lifts: Smaller lifting equipment for transferring goods between floors.
Pneumatic Tube Systems: Systems that use air pressure to transport small items, commonly used in hospitals and banks.

Division 21 – Fire Suppression

Division 21 - Subcategories

21 10 00 – Fire Suppression General Requirements
21 20 00 – Fire Sprinkler Systems
21 30 00 – Fire Alarm Systems

Fire Suppression involves tasks to suppress fires in buildings, covering fire pumps, extinguishing systems, and water storage. This division ensures the design and installation of effective fire protection systems.

Sprinkler Systems: Automatic fire sprinklers including wet, dry and deluge systems.
Stand pipes and Hose Systems: Fixed piping systems for fire suppression, located in stairwells for firefighter access.
Fire Extinguishers and Cabinets: Portable extinguishers accessible for immediate use during fire emergencies.
Specialty Suppression Systems: Non water based suppression for specific areas including foam, gas, or chemical systems used in kitchens, server rooms and laboratories.

Division 22 – Plumbing

Division 22 - Subcategories

22 10 00 – Plumbing General Requirements
22 20 00 – Plumbing Piping and Fittings
22 30 00 – Plumbing Fixtures

Division 22 outlines requirements for valves, plumbing fixtures, drainage systems, and water systems. It includes detailed specifications for the installation and maintenance of plumbing infrastructure.

Plumbing Fixtures: Including sinks, toilets, showers and faucets for basic sanitary needs.
Water Supply and Distribution Systems: Infrastructure to deliver water to fixtures, appliances and equipment.
Waste and Vent Piping: Drainage systems to remove waste and provide proper venting for consistent flow.
Hot Water Systems: Heating equipment and distribution for providing hot water to facilities.
Sewage Treatment Systems: Systems for onsite waste treatment, especially in remote or industrial sites.

Division 23 – Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

Division 23 - Subcategories

23 10 00 – HVAC General Requirements
23 20 00 – HVAC Piping
23 30 00 – HVAC Equipment

Division 23 HVAC covers air conditioning, ventilation, and air quality control systems, including exhaust systems. This division ensures the design and installation of efficient climate control systems.

Air Distribution Systems: Ductwork and diffusers that distribute heated or cooled air throughout the building.
Heating and Cooling Equipment: Includes boilers, chillers and furnaces to regulate temperature.
Ventilation and Exhaust Systems: Systems that control air quality by removing stale air and providing fresh air.
Ductwork and Insulation: Insulated ducts to reduce energy loss and maintain air temperature.

Division 26 – Electrical

Division 26 - Subcategories

26 10 00 – Electrical General Requirements
26 20 00 – Electrical Service and Distribution
26 30 00 – Transmission and Distribution
26 40 00 – Lighting
26 50 00 – Control Systems

Electrical installation involves systems for generating, controlling, and distributing electrical energy. This division includes specifications for wiring, lighting and power distribution systems.

Power Generation and Distribution: Systems for generating or distributing electricity, including backup generators.
Lighting Systems: Interior and exterior lighting fixtures, including emergency and task lighting.
Emergency Power Systems: Backup systems, such as generators and UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supplies), for critical operations.
Wiring and Cabling: All conductors and cabling for power distribution and control systems.
Electrical Controls and Instruments: Switchgear, panels and devices that monitor and control power flow.

Division 28 – Electronic Safety and Security

Division 28 - Subcategories

28 10 00 – Electronic Safety and Security General Requirements
28 20 00 – Security Systems
28 30 00 – Fire Detection and Alarm Systems

Electronic Safety and Security include components related to security, fire, and life safety systems in buildings. This division covers the installation of alarm systems, surveillance, and access control.

Fire Alarm and Detection Systems: Systems for detecting fire and alerting occupants, including smoke detectors and alarms.
Security and Access Control Systems: Solutions for controlling access, such as keycard readers, biometric systems and door alarms.
Video Surveillance Systems: CCTV and other monitoring systems for security oversight.
Alarm and Emergency Communication Systems: Communication systems for emergency alerts, evacuation instructions and coordination.

Division 31 Earthwork / Sitework

Division 31- Subcategories

31 10 00 – Site Clearing
31 20 00 – Earthwork
31 30 00 – Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control

Earthwork covers soil manipulation, foundation construction, and tunnel building for construction projects. It includes specifications for excavation, grading and soil stabilization.

Clearing and Grubbing: Removal of trees, vegetation and debris to prepare the site.
Excavation and Backfilling: Digging and refilling for foundations, basements and utility lines.
Grading and Soil Stabilization: Adjusting site contours and stabilizing soil for building support and drainage.
Erosion and Sediment Control: Measures to prevent soil erosion during and after construction.

Division 32 – Exterior Improvements

Division 32 - Subcategories

32 10 00 – Bases, Ballasts, and Pavements
32 20 00 – Fences and Gates
32 30 00 – Planting
32 40 00 – Site Furnishings

This division addresses site improvements outside of buildings, including paving, landscaping, fencing, and retaining walls. It covers specifications for enhancing the exterior environment of construction sites.

Asphalt and Concrete Paving: Driveways, sidewalks and parking lots to support traffic and durability.
Fencing and Gates: Security and privacy fencing with manual or automated gates.
Retaining Walls and Site Structures: Structures for managing terrain, such as terracing and garden walls.
Irrigation and Landscaping: Installation of irrigation systems and plants to complete exterior aesthetics.

Division 33 – Utilities

Division 32 - Subcategories

33 01 00 – Utilities General Requirements
33 10 00 – Water Utility Distribution
33 20 00 – Wastewater Utility Collection
33 30 00 – Gas Utility Distribution
33 40 00 – Electrical Utility Distribution
33 50 00 – Communications Utilities
33 60 00 – Site Utilities
33 70 00 – Utility Service Connections

Utilities encompass mechanical and electrical services, including water, wastewater, electrical, fuel, and drainage systems at a construction site. This division ensures the installation and maintenance of essential utility infrastructure.

Water Supply and Distribution: Systems to deliver potable and non potable water to the site.
Storm and Sanitary Sewer Systems: Infrastructure for managing runoff and sewage.
Gas Distribution: Systems for distributing natural gas or other fuels for heating and equipment.
Communications and Data Utilities: Fiber optics, cabling and systems for telecommunications and internet access.
Electrical Distribution Outside the Building: Transformers, substations and outdoor wiring for power distribution to the building.

The Importance of CSI Division Codes

CSI codes are important for categorizing and finding specific construction related details and help in efficiently managing information throughout the construction projects.

CSI Division Codes serve as a universal language in construction industry around the globe, specially in the United States. It play an important role in organizing and standardizing construction projects.

CSI Divisions are essential for architects, civil engineers, contractors, and building material suppliers to clearly communicate construction project requirements and these codes ensures that each phase of construction is well-coordinated and efficiently executed.

By breaking down the complex projects into specific CSI divisions, it streamline project management and making it easier to track construction materials, timelines and their costs.

In U.S. construction industry, CSI construction divisions are widely adopted. These divisions helps in clear communication, accurate bidding, comprehensive construction estimating and effective project management.

Final Thoughts

The CSI MasterFormat and its divisions play an important role in the U.S. construction industry.

By providing a common language and framework, it ensure that construction projects are well-organized and executed effectively. Understanding these CSI construction divisions is essential for anyone involved in the construction process.