Attachment 5: Design Clarification

RFQ 12445527Q0003 — Basis of Design - UPDATE
Project: Doniphan & Salem Drop Ceilings Installation Effective Date: October 14, 2026 Purpose: Establish a clear, controlling Basis of Design (BOD) for ceiling systems, drop limits, tile performance, and fixture handling—superseding all PVC references and any conflicting prior language.

1) Ceiling System — Metal Only; PVC Deleted
CeilingMAX/PVC systems are deleted and shall not be proposed. Provide metal systems only. Salem (main floor & basement): Use metal directmount wherever feasible to maximize headroom; where directmount is not feasible, provide a shortdrop metal Tbar suspension system with a maximum 3-inch total drop (this 3″ limit controls and supersedes any 2″ references). Doniphan: Provide a metal suspension system; coordinate fixture elevation and duct concealment per Section 4 below.

2) Acoustic Ceiling Tile Performance
Doniphan & Salem : Tile shall meet the specified design ratings of NRC ≥ 0.55 and CAC ≥ 30. These design ratings take precedence over any product examples or previously stated values; products that do not meet both minimum ratings, such as Armstrong Tundra 303 with an NRC of 0.50, are not acceptable. Both sites (option): A single product may be used at both Salem and Doniphan if it meets the Doniphan minimums.

3) Fire Rating (Doniphan)
No hourly fireresistance ceiling assembly is required. Provide Class A surfaceburning characteristics per ASTM E84 for Keith Holland’s office and adjacent areas.

4) Fixtures, Electrical, and Overhead Services — Contractor’s Full Scope Contractor shall disconnect, reconnect, relocate, and modify/extend wiring for existing fixtures as needed; provide independent structural support for fixtures (not relying on tiles or grid); and perform/coordinate all electrical/HVAC trade work to deliver a safe, codecompliant, fully functional installation. Salem basement: Remove four circular ceiling vents and modify ductwork as needed to install square diffusers coordinated with the new grid and tile layout. Fixture quantities (guidance only; contractor to verify in the field): Salem upstairs: ~53 1′×4′ lights.
Salem downstairs: 8 1′×4′ lights; 4 circular vents (to be replaced per above). Doniphan: Keith Holland’s office (two 2′×4′), hallway (two 1′×4′), small conference (two 1′×4′).

5) Demolition & Existing Conditions (Salem)
Remove and dispose of all existing ceiling tiles and the attachment system (observed direct attachment to joists/floor boards via furring strips). Start from a clean substrate and install new supports as required for the new system.