CSI Categories

Problem

What is CSI? How is the system used in MacNail construction estimating software?

Diagnosis

CSI is Construction Standards Institute. They developed a 16 category breakdown of costs that is used by RS Means, AIA (American Institute of Architects), Sweets and others in the industry.

It is offered as an alternative cost category system, along with MacNail's 30 letter cost codes (which are more popular with remodelers etc).

Solution

GENERAL CONDITIONS Div 1
SITE PREPARATION Div 2 (includes demolition)
CONCRETE Div 3
MASONRY Div 4
IRONWORK Div 5
WOOD & PLASTIC Div 6 (includes framing, trim, etc)
THERMAL/MOISTURE Div 7 (includes roofing, insulation, etc)
WINDOW & DOOR Div 8
FINISHES Div 9 (includes wallboard, tile, painting, etc)
SPECIALTIES Div 10
EQUIPMENT Div 11
FURNISHINGS Div 12
SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION Div 13
CONVEYING SYSTEMS Div 14
MECHANICAL Div 15 (includes plumbing and HVAC)
ELECTRICAL Div 16

Note that this was replaced about 10 years ago by a much more complicated system. However, many people still use the original 16 divisions.

Comments

Entered 1/18/95 by Dennis. Updated 11/23/2010.