/spec-writer
CSI outline specifications from a materials list
What it does
Type /as:spec-writer with a materials list, product schedule, or project description. The skill drafts outline specifications with three-part sections — General, Products, Execution — including performance criteria, reference standards, and submittals. Section numbers come from the authorized MasterFormat edition or your verified inputs; there is no bundled mapping, and a section it cannot verify stays open for review rather than getting a best-fit number.
Missing product choices, conflicting requirements, and unverified claims are flagged with [REVIEW REQUIRED] — never filled with generic manufacturer facts.
Install
Claude Desktop:
- Open Customize → Browse plugins
- Click + → Add marketplace from GitHub
- Enter
AlpacaLabsLLC/skills-for-architects - Install Architecture Studio
Claude Code (terminal):
claude plugin marketplace add AlpacaLabsLLC/skills-for-architects
claude plugin install as@skills-for-architectsOr symlink just this skill:
git clone https://github.com/AlpacaLabsLLC/skills-for-architects.git
ln -s $(pwd)/skills-for-architects/skills/spec-writer ~/.claude/skills/spec-writerUsage
/as:spec-writer porcelain tile, LVT flooring, painted gypsum board, acoustic ceiling tile, solid surface countertopsFrom a file:
/as:spec-writer ~/Documents/materials-schedule.csvFrom a description:
/as:spec-writer spec the finishes for a Class A office TI — high-traffic corridors, open office with carpet tile, executive conference room with wood panelingScope
Sections cover the materials and applications you actually ask for, in your template, units, and terminology. Standards are cited by exact edition only after they are verified against the original.
Sample: Section 09 30 13 — Ceramic Tiling
Generated from: “porcelain tile, LVT flooring, painted gypsum board, acoustic ceiling tile, solid surface countertops”
Part 1 — General
1.01 Section Includes
- Porcelain floor tile in lobbies, corridors, and restrooms
- Tile base at tiled floor areas
- Mortar setting beds, grout, and waterproof membrane at wet areas
1.03 References
- ANSI A108/A118/A136.1 — Installation of Ceramic Tile
- ASTM C373 — Moisture Absorption, Bulk Density, Apparent Porosity
- ANSI A137.1 — Specifications for Ceramic Tile
- TCNA Handbook for Ceramic, Glass, and Stone Tile Installation
1.04 Submittals
- Product data sheets for each tile type, setting materials, and grout
- Samples: two full-size tiles of each type, color, and finish
- Shop drawings: tile layout, pattern, joint widths, transition details
- DCOF test reports per ANSI A326.3 for floor tile
Part 2 — Products
Performance Criteria
- Water absorption: 0.5% maximum per ASTM C373
- DCOF: 0.42 minimum (wet) per ANSI A326.3
- Breaking strength: 2000 N minimum
- Abrasion resistance: Class IV minimum (public commercial traffic)
- Frost resistance: per ANSI A137.1 [REVIEW REQUIRED] — confirm applicability based on envelope conditions
Part 3 — Execution
Installation: Butter-back method for tiles larger than 15”. Minimum 95% mortar coverage in wet areas, 80% in dry areas. Joint width 1/8” unless noted. Movement joints at perimeter and at intervals not exceeding 20–25 ft per TCNA EJ171.
Quality Assurance: Verify mortar coverage by periodically lifting freshly set tiles. Finished floor tolerance: 1/8” in 10 ft, no lippage greater than 1/32” between adjacent tiles.
The full sample includes 6 CSI sections across 3 divisions covering all 5 specified materials, with ASTM/ANSI references and [REVIEW REQUIRED] flags on items needing senior specifier input.