ASTM E1557-09 (2024) PDF

Full title and description

St ASTM E1557-09(2024) — Standard Classification for Building Elements and Related Sitework — UNIFORMAT II. This ASTM practice defines a hierarchical elemental classification (UNIFORMAT II) for building elements and related sitework to support cost estimation, budgeting, design, scheduling, lifecycle analysis and facilities management across project phases.

Abstract

ASTM E1557-09(2024) (UNIFORMAT II) provides an elemental classification framework that groups building components and sitework into consistent levels (Levels 1–3, with suggested Level 4 sub-elements). The classification is intended to be used for cost estimating, economic evaluation, design and specification coordination, scheduling, and facilities planning where an element-based view of the built environment improves comparability and decision-making.

General information

• Status: Current / Active (reaffirmed/issued as E1557-09(2024)).
• Publication date: July 1, 2024.
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 91.060.01 — Elements of buildings in general.
• Edition / version: E1557-09 with 2024 issuance (commonly cited as ASTM E1557-09(2024)).
• Number of pages: 45 pages (typical published PDF length).

Scope

This standard establishes a uniform elemental classification for buildings and related sitework. It applies to major building elements that perform defined functions independent of design method or materials, and it is intended for use across feasibility, planning, design, construction, maintenance, rehabilitation and disposal phases. Specialized process equipment is excluded; furnishings and equipment are included where appropriate.

Key topics and requirements

• Elemental classification structure (Levels 1–3; suggested Level 4 in appendix) for building elements and sitework.
• Standardized titles and numbering to support cost estimating, budgeting and reporting.
• Guidance for applying the classification across project phases (planning → design → construction → operations).
• Recommendations for use with cost planning, life‑cycle analysis, scheduling and master‑schedules.
• Crosswalk potential to other classification systems (e.g., MasterFormat, OmniClass) for interoperability.
• Unit conventions (values stated in inch‑pound units where applicable) and editorial notes on application.

Typical use and users

ASTM E1557 (UNIFORMAT II) is used by owners, developers, cost planners, estimators, schedulers, architects, engineers, specification writers, facilities managers, contractors and educators. Typical applications include elemental cost estimating, benchmarking, life‑cycle costing, scope definition in early design, preparation of master schedules, and organizing facility information for operations and handover.

Related standards

Commonly used alongside or crosswalked with CSI MasterFormat and OmniClass (CSI/CSC stewardship of UniFormat/UniFormat II), as well as organizational guidance from AIA and GSA on cost and element reporting. The classification also maps to broader construction classification frameworks such as ISO 12006‑2 (framework for classification in construction) where international coordination is required.

Keywords

UNIFORMAT II, elemental classification, building elements, sitework, cost estimating, cost planning, lifecycle costing, MasterFormat crosswalk, OmniClass, facilities management, construction classification.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM E1557-09(2024) (UNIFORMAT II) is an ASTM standard that defines a hierarchical classification of building elements and related sitework to support estimation, planning and facilities management.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers a standardized elemental taxonomy (Levels 1–3, with suggested Level 4) for buildings and sitework, intended for use in cost estimating, reporting, scheduling and lifecycle analyses. It excludes specialized process equipment but includes furnishings and equipment where relevant.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Owners, cost estimators, architects, engineers, contractors, facility managers, specification writers and educators — anyone needing a consistent element‑based classification for budgeting, comparison or lifecycle work.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The document is published/issued as ASTM E1557-09(2024) and is treated as current/active. For project work confirm the edition required by contract and any subsequent amendments or reapprovals from ASTM.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes. E1557 is part of a family of construction and classification practices used with other standards (e.g., MasterFormat, OmniClass, CSI/CSC UniFormat editorial products) and is maintained within ASTM's E06 committee activities on construction and building information.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: UNIFORMAT II, elemental classification, building elements, cost estimating, cost planning, facilities management, MasterFormat, OmniClass.