Division 32: Exterior Improvements
Division 32 covers improvements to the exterior of the site — including paving, curbs, fences, striping, signage, bollards, and more. Learn to accurately interpret specs, understand materials, and perform estimating for all outdoor construction activities.
🎥 Study Video
Upload your video walkthrough explaining Division 32 estimating and plan reading.
📄 Exterior Improvements Cheat Sheet
Download our Division 32 cheat sheet outlining paving standards, layout elements, and cost variables for site finishes.
Download Division 32 Guide(Replace this with your PDF.)
💡 Instructor Insights
- Paving specs will often detail base layers, asphalt thicknesses, and expansion joints.
- Watch for references to ADA compliance, detectable warnings, and traffic signage.
- Fencing and gates are often spec’d with gauge, height, and post spacing.
- Site furnishings such as benches, bike racks, and bollards are usually listed in Division 32.
- Coordinate with Division 03 (Concrete) for sidewalks and curbs.
📥 Quiz & Resources
Test your understanding of paving, fencing, site furnishings, and coordination for exterior improvements.
- What are common requirements for asphalt paving?
Answer: Base layers, thickness, compaction, and expansion joints. - How does Division 32 address ADA compliance?
Answer: Look for slope requirements, detectable warnings, and accessible route planning in paving and parking areas. - What details are typically included in fencing and gate specs?
Answer: Fence height, post spacing, material type, and gate operation (swing or sliding). Don't forget hardware specifications. - What site furnishings are commonly detailed in Division 32?
Answer: Benches, bike racks, bollards, and trash receptacles, with specifications for material finishes and installation methods. - What are common coordination points between Division 32 and Division 03?
Answer: Coordination with concrete for sidewalks, curbs, and related infrastructure is key to avoid overlap and misaligned schedules.
Division 32: Exterior Improvements
🔹 Key Teaching Points
1️⃣ Paving & Asphalt Specifications
- Look for details on base layers, asphalt thickness, and any expansion joints or joints required in paving work.
- Ensure to confirm compaction standards and finish requirements for paving elements.
2️⃣ ADA Compliance & Traffic Signage
- Check for references to ADA-compliant slopes, detectable warnings, and accessible routes.
- Traffic signage, parking spaces, and traffic control devices should be explicitly mentioned in the specs.
3️⃣ Fencing & Gates
- Review fencing materials, post spacing, height, and gauge. These affect the cost and installation time.
- Check whether gates are swing or sliding, and review hardware specifications and operational requirements.
4️⃣ Site Furnishings
- Site furnishings such as benches, bike racks, bollards, and trash receptacles are commonly listed here.
- Confirm material finishes, installation methods, and any environmental considerations.
5️⃣ Coordination with Concrete Division
- Sidewalks, curbs, and related elements often fall under Division 03 (Concrete) — review and coordinate with concrete specs to avoid scope overlap.
- Confirm the grading and drainage systems to ensure no conflicts with paving or curbing work.
✅ Wrap-Up Summary
- Division 32 covers the hardscape elements of a project — everything from paving and curbing to fences and site furnishings.
- Watch for ADA and traffic-related compliance, and always coordinate with Division 03 for related concrete work.
- Proper attention to detail here will prevent costly mistakes and rework during construction.