What is a cut sheet in construction?

A cut sheet is a manufacturer's one- or two-page product data sheet: dimensions, materials, performance ratings, finishes and installation notes for a specific product. In commercial construction, cut sheets are what a subcontractor submits to prove the product they plan to install matches the specification.

What's on a cut sheet

• Product name and model number, often with the exact option highlighted or circled.
• Dimensions and weights: sizes, thicknesses, gauges, lengths.
• Performance data: fire rating, STC, load tables, R-value, electrical ratings, depending on the product.
• Standards it meets, such as ASTM or UL listings.
• Finishes, colors and accessories.
• Installation notes or a reference to the installation guide.

Where cut sheets show up: submittals

Before materials are ordered, the subcontractor sends a submittal package through the general contractor to the architect or engineer. For most products that package is mostly cut sheets, marked up to show which size, gauge or option is being supplied. The design team stamps it approved, approved as noted, or revise and resubmit. Ordering before approval is a gamble.

For a drywall and framing sub, a typical submittal includes cut sheets for the gypsum board types (Type X, moisture-resistant, abuse-resistant), studs and track by gauge, fasteners, insulation, acoustical sealant and any fire-rated joint systems.

Cut sheet vs. spec sheet vs. shop drawing

• Cut sheet / product data sheet / spec sheet: the same thing in practice. Generic manufacturer data about one product.
• Shop drawing: drawn for this specific project, showing how things will be fabricated or installed. Common for steel, millwork, curtain wall and engineered framing.
• Specification (spec book): the project document that says what's required. The cut sheet proves the product meets it.

Cut sheet vs. cut list

In carpentry and fabrication, "cut sheet" sometimes means a cut list: the list of pieces and lengths to cut from stock, or an optimized layout of cuts on sheet goods. Same words, different job. If someone on site asks for the cut sheet for a stair or a cabinet run, they probably mean the cut list.

ReadMyBlueprint reads the wall types and quantities off a digital plan set, so you know exactly which products, gauges and board types you need cut sheets for.

FAQ

What is a cut sheet in construction?

A cut sheet is a manufacturer's product data sheet listing a product's dimensions, materials, ratings and options. Subcontractors submit cut sheets to the architect or engineer for approval before ordering materials.

Is a cut sheet the same as a spec sheet?

In practice, yes. Cut sheet, spec sheet and product data sheet all mean the manufacturer's data for one product. The project specification is a different document: it says what the project requires.

What is the difference between a cut sheet and a shop drawing?

A cut sheet is generic manufacturer data. A shop drawing is drawn for the specific project and shows how an item will be fabricated or installed.

What is a cut sheet in carpentry?

In carpentry and fabrication, cut sheet often means a cut list: the pieces and lengths to cut from stock material.

Related: Construction glossary · Types of drywall · Metal stud gauge chart