One of the most common questions I get is: “Where do I specify Frame Frog? Should it go in the drawings, the specs, or both? And which division?”
The answer depends on your frame of reference, but I have a strong recommendation.
The Collision of Wiring and Hollow Metal Frames
Frame Frog addresses a longstanding challenge in the industry: the collision between wiring and hollow metal frames. Despite the increasing demand for electrified hardware, hollow metal frames were never designed to house wiring, and the industry still lacks a standardized solution. Before 2000, these installations were rare, but today, they are included in nearly every project.
This issue touches multiple trades, which leads to confusion. Is it a hollow metal frame problem, a hardware issue, an electrical pathway challenge, or a security concern? Because no one trade owns the issue, it often gets overlooked.
Frame Frog solves this problem by creating a clear separation between trades, allowing each to complete their work efficiently. Architects and the hollow metal industry now have an opportunity to establish a better process for integrating wiring pathways into frames.
The Best Fit for Frame Frog
Frame Frog belongs in Division 8, either in the Hollow Metal Specification or the Hardware Specification, with clear references between the two. This ensures that frames are properly prepared, reducing costly retrofits and minimizing disruption to building operations.
Specifying the 3 Frog Kit, in particular, can significantly reduce coordination time for architects and subcontractors. Since it accommodates virtually all configurations, architects who include it in their specs can avoid back-and-forth adjustments later in the process, streamlining project execution.
Specifying Frame Frog in the Hardware Spec
Adding Frame Frog to the Hardware Specification is straightforward. Each Hardware Set should include the appropriate Frame Frog model, whether a 2, 3, or 4 Frog Kit. This allows seamless coordination with the electrified hardware at each opening.
However, it’s also important to address Frame Frog in the Hollow Metal Specification, especially when future-proofing an opening that may not initially include electrified hardware. Hollow metal fabricators typically prep frames only for the hardware listed in the spec. If future electrification is a possibility, the frame preparation must be clearly specified.
Specifying Frame Frog in the Hollow Metal Spec
Placing Frame Frog in the Hollow Metal Specification ensures that frames are properly prepped for wiring from the start. This allows the installation to take place at the hollow metal shop, where the unit can be welded and routed inside the frame for easy shipping.
This approach also simplifies installation in the field. Once the frame is set, an electrician can connect a single conduit to Frame Frog and extend it to the ceiling. The low-voltage or security contractor can then complete their work at any time, even years later, without disturbing the frame or surrounding finishes.
What About IT or Security Specs?
Some may consider placing Frame Frog in the IT or Security System scope because it directly benefits low-voltage installers. While this is possible, it requires extra coordination since IT contractors are often not on-site when frames are installed. Too often, their scope of work is undefined or not bid in advance, making field installation difficult.
By including Frame Frog in Division 8, the technology components can be installed later in the project, aligning with how these systems are typically deployed.
Final Thoughts
Frame Frog is best specified in Division 8, either in the Hollow Metal or Hardware Specification, with clear cross-referencing between the two. Architectural drawings should also reflect the inclusion of Frame Frog to ensure seamless implementation.To assist with this process, we provide recommended specification language and architectural drawings on our website. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out—Frame Frog is here to help.