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Mockup and Sample Procedures

Document Type: Procedure
Version: 1.0
Last Updated: February 2026
Distribute To: Project Managers, Superintendents

Purpose​

Establish procedures for constructing, reviewing, and approving mockups and samples to ensure quality expectations are met before full production.

What is a Mockup?​

A mockup is a physical sample assembly constructed to:

  • Demonstrate visual quality standards
  • Test installation methods
  • Verify design intent
  • Establish acceptance criteria
  • Train crews

When Mockups Required​

Typically Required For:​

  • Exterior wall assemblies
  • Curtain walls
  • Masonry
  • Precast concrete
  • Specialty finishes
  • Custom millwork
  • Tile patterns
  • Flooring transitions
  • Ceiling systems
  • Complex assemblies

Check Specifications:​

  • Section 01 45 00 (Quality Control)
  • Individual specification sections
  • Contract requirements

Types of Mockups​

Sample Panel:​

  • Small section of assembly
  • For color, texture, pattern approval
  • Usually not permanent

Installation Mockup:​

  • Full-scale construction sample
  • Tests installation methods
  • May become part of work

Room Mockup:​

  • Complete room or space
  • Shows multiple finishes together
  • Coordination of trades

Mockup Process​

Step 1: Identify Requirements​

  • Review specifications for mockup requirements
  • List all required mockups
  • Determine location, size, timing
  • Budget for mockup costs

Step 2: Plan and Schedule​

  • Schedule in project schedule
  • Coordinate with affected trades
  • Arrange for materials
  • Notify architect/owner

Step 3: Construct Mockup​

  • Build per specifications
  • Use production materials
  • Use production methods
  • Document process

Step 4: Request Inspection​

  • Notify architect/owner
  • Schedule review
  • Prepare for comments

Step 5: Review and Approval​

  • Walk mockup with reviewers
  • Document comments
  • Note accepted/rejected items
  • Obtain written approval

Step 6: Modifications (If Needed)​

  • Address comments
  • Modify mockup
  • Re-submit for approval

Step 7: Maintain Standard​

  • Protect approved mockup
  • Use as production reference
  • Train crews to match
  • Compare production to mockup

Mockup Request for Approval​

================================================================
       MOCKUP/SAMPLE APPROVAL REQUEST
================================================================

Project: ___________________________________________________

Date: _____________________________________________________

Submitted By: ______________________________________________

================================================================

MOCKUP INFORMATION:

Description: _______________________________________________

Specification Section: _____________________________________

Location: __________________________________________________

Size: _____________________________________________________

Materials Used:
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________

================================================================

MOCKUP DEMONSTRATES:
☐ Color/finish
☐ Pattern/layout
☐ Workmanship quality
☐ Installation method
☐ Material compatibility
☐ Coordination between trades
☐ Other: __________________________________________________

================================================================

READY FOR REVIEW:

Date Available: ____________________________________________

Location: __________________________________________________

Contact: ___________________________________________________

================================================================

ARCHITECT/OWNER USE:

Review Date: _______________________________________________

Reviewed By: _______________________________________________

☐ APPROVED as submitted
☐ APPROVED with comments (see attached)
☐ REJECTED - revise and resubmit

Comments:
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________

Signature: _________________________  Date: ________________

================================================================

DISPOSITION:

☐ Mockup to remain as quality standard
☐ Mockup to be demolished
☐ Mockup to become part of permanent work

================================================================

Sample Submittals​

Physical Samples:​

  • Actual material pieces
  • Submitted for color/finish approval
  • Usually retained by architect

Sample Types:​

TypeExamples
MaterialBrick, stone, tile, flooring
FinishPaint, stain, hardware
AssemblyWindow section, door hardware
ColorPaint chips, finish samples

Sample Process:​

  1. Obtain samples from manufacturer
  2. Submit with transmittal
  3. Reference specification section
  4. Track approval status
  5. Order from approved sample

Common Mockup Issues​

IssuePrevention
Schedule delayPlan early, include in schedule
Multiple revisionsPre-coordinate with architect
Cost overrunsBudget appropriately
Lost standardProtect approved mockup
Production doesn't matchTrain crews, regular comparison

Quality Standards from Mockups​

Use Approved Mockup To:​

  • Train production crews
  • Compare ongoing work
  • Resolve quality disputes
  • Document acceptable quality

Periodic Comparison:​

  • Walk production against mockup
  • Document any deviations
  • Correct non-conforming work
  • Update crew training
  • Submittal Process
  • Quality Plan
  • Inspection Procedures
  • Specification Review

Template provided by support.construction. Mockups are critical for quality outcomes.