Classification Of Building Elements
Per ASTM UNIFORMAT II Standard

The classification of building elements is an integral and key component of the ASTM UNIFORMAT Standard E1557. It provides for a common point of agreement on design elements for all project stakeholders.

The framework for the UNIFORMAT II classification (including Level 4), the selection of items to include, and the decisions in which parts of the classification to include the items are based on the following criteria:

• framework is hierarchical to allow aggregation and summarization at different levels
• framework is suitable for a range of applications, including cost control and schematic phase preliminary project descriptions
• framework accommodates unlisted items based on the judgment of building professionals
• selected items have a significant influence on project cost
• selected items have high frequency of occurrence
• selected items are distinctive
• professional judgment used to place elements where building professionals in current practice would normally look for such items in a classification

About UNIFORMAT II

The ASTM E1557 "Standard Classification for Building Elements and Related Sitework - UNIFORMAT II" provides a common structure linking the building program, specifications, and estimates.

Its integration in the design process results in improved communications and coordination among all project participants, an accelerated design, and significantly increased productivity.

The classification provides the Project Manager with an essential tool to control project scope, cost, time and quality.

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