Replace the YouTube link above with your Division 05 study video.

• Structural steel is usually called out in 05 12 00 — always check connection and bolt details.
• Metal stairs, rails, and ladders are broken into their own subsections (05 50 00+).
• Galvanized vs. painted finishes are specified here — can change cost.
• Look for welding specs, erection tolerances, and shop drawings requirements.
• Cold-formed metal framing (used in commercial walls/ceilings) is often confused with wood framing — know the difference.

1. What does Section 05 50 00 typically cover?
   Answer: Metal Fabrications — including stairs, railings, grating, bollards, and supports.
2. Why are welding requirements important to verify?
   Answer: Some jobs require certified welders and may include testing or shop drawings with weld symbols.
3. What finish options should you confirm in the specs?
   Answer: Galvanized, painted, fireproofed, or powder-coated — indoor/outdoor location determines protection needed.
4. What’s the difference between shop and field connections?
   Answer: Shop connections are pre-fabricated; field connections are done on site and affect schedule/labor cost.
5. What common metal items are often missed in takeoffs?
   Answer: Railings, trim, support plates, ladders, roof anchors — often hidden in architectural sheets.

Division 05: Metals

🔹 Key Teaching Points

1️⃣ Know Your Spec Section Codes

• 05 12 00 – Structural Steel Framing
• 05 40 00 – Cold-Formed Metal Framing
• 05 50 00 – Metal Fabrications (ladders, stairs, grating)
• Confirm you're estimating and coordinating the right sections.

2️⃣ Welding Requirements Are a Big Deal

• Look for requirements like certified welders or specific weld testing.
• May require submission of shop drawings with weld symbols.

3️⃣ Finish Types Can Affect Bid Cost

• Galvanized vs. painted steel – impacts price and durability.
• Look for rust protection or fireproofing coatings.

4️⃣ Connection Types Must Be Verified

• Bolted vs. welded connections can impact field labor and coordination.
• Check whether connections are field-installed or prefabricated.

5️⃣ Metal Fabrications Are Hidden Gold

• Don’t overlook rails, grates, supports, or steel trim in 05 50 00.
• These are often hidden in architectural details and hard to catch in your takeoff.

✅ Wrap-Up Summary

• Division 05 defines all structural and architectural metal components.
• From steel beams to small railings — know what section it's in.
• Specs are heavy on connections, finishes, and QC — read closely!