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Division 32

Division 32

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

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💡 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.

  1. What are common requirements for asphalt paving?
    Answer: Base layers, thickness, compaction, and expansion joints.
  2. How does Division 32 address ADA compliance?
    Answer: Look for slope requirements, detectable warnings, and accessible route planning in paving and parking areas.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
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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.