QSI - Architectural Cabinets - 400

ARCHITECTURAL CABINETS
SECTION
400
Architectural Cabinets Section 400

Architectural Cabinets
Section 400
Section 400 Selection and Specification Checklist

Because most architecture, specification, and design firms have electronic master specifications in place, the AWI and
AWMAC offer this quick checklist. A review of these items may help the design and specification team issue a complete and
accurate contract document and avoid missing things vital to the successful completion of the project. The checklists are not
considered a part of the Quality Standards for the purposes of compliance.
Part 1. GENERAL
1.1. REFERENCES
A. AWI/AWMAC Quality Standards Illustrated (QSI), current edition

1.2 SUBMITTALS
A. Shop drawings:
Submit two copies; one of which will be returned with reviewed notations prior to commencement of work under this
section.
400
Indicate plans and elevations, materials, surface grain directions, profiles, assembly methods, joint details, fastening
methods, accessories, hardware, compliance with specified fire-retardant treatments, preservative treatments, and
schedule of finishes.
B. Finish samples:
When appropriate, submit one or more samples of veneer-on-substrate, 200 x 250 mm [8 x 10"] illustrating expected
range of component finish color and/or grain.
When appropriate, submit one or more samples of solid lumber, 300 square centimeters [50 square inches] illustrating
expected range of component finish color and/or grain.
The sample shall bear identification of the project, architect or designer, general contractor, woodwork manufacturer,
items to which the finish applies and the system utilized to attain the finish.
1.3. QUALITY ASSURANCE
A. Perform work in accordance with [Premium] [Custom] [Economy] Grade quality
B. Work in this section shall comply with the specified Grade(s) of Work and Section (s) of the current edition of the
AWI/AWMAC Quality Standards Illustrated.
1.4. QUALIFICATIONS
A. Contractors and their personnel engaged in the work shall be able to demonstrate successful experience with work of
comparable extent, complexity and quality to that shown and specified.
B. Manufacturers who are members in good standing of the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) or the Architectural
Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada (AWMAC) and are familiar with this Standard.
1.5. DELIVERY, STORAGE AND HANDLING
A. Protect work from moisture damage according to QSI, Section 1700, Installation.
Part 2. PRODUCTS
2.1. MANUFACTURERS
A. Manufacturers who are members in good standing of the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) or the Architectural
Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada (AWMAC) and are familiar with this Standard.
2.2. LUMBER
A. Softwood Lumber: If a particular species is desired, specify here.
For exposed surfaces:
For semi-exposed surfaces:
For concealed surfaces:
B. Hardwood Lumber: If a particular species is desired, specify here.
118
2003 AWI/AWMAC - 8th Edition Quality Standards
Section 400
2.3. PANEL PRODUCTS

A. Softwood plywood: Not usually used for in fine architectural woodwork, but specify here if part of the design
sthetic.
B. Hardwood plywood: Made with medium density particleboard or fiberboard (MDF) core for interior use or moistureresistant core stock for exterior use; specify face veneer species here.
C. High-pressure decorative laminate (HPDL), specify by brand name and design name/part number.
400
D. Core material for veneered or laminated components, if other than QSI standards:
E. Solid surface materials, Thermoplastic sheets, Acrylic or methacrylate sheets, Solid phenolic core, or any other special
panel product, specify by brand name and design name/product number.
2.4. WOOD TREATMENT
A. List the specific local requirement for fire retardant treatment, if any.
B. List the specific chemical and process for preservative treatment, if any.
2.5. GLAZING, HARDWARE, AND ACCESSORIES
A. If glass is to be supplied by woodworker, the materials and requirements should be listed here.
Wood stops shall conform to the QSI for the Grade of Work specified.
Finish coats on glazed exterior work, if any, shall be allowed to flow on to the glass.
B. Fasteners: Size and type to suit application. Weather resistant if exterior. The QSI does not set standards for fasteners.
C. Hardware, if not specified by brand name and part number, shall be mill option to meet QSI minimums.
2.6. FABRICATION
A. Fabricate to [Premium] [Custom] [Economy] Quality Standards.
B. Shop prepare and identify components of assemblies for matching during site assembly.
C. When necessary to cut and fit on site, provide materials with ample allowance for cutting. Provide trim for scribing
and site cutting.
D. Cabinet style(s): [Flush overlay] [Reveal overlay] [Reveal overlay on face frame] [Flush inset] [Flush inset with face
frame]; specify which elevations get which style.
E. Underside wall cabinet finish style commensurate with the cabinet style specified above: [Type A] [Type B] [Type C].
F. Cabinet shelf thickness and/or construction to accommodate exceptional client requirements such as long spans or
anticipated heavy loading here.
G. Grain direction and matching criteria if other than AWI/AWMAC Standards here, otherwise accept the matching for
the Grade of Work specified above.
H. Stile and rail door panel retention profile and/or hardware if other than AWI/AWMAC Standards.
I. Drawer body requirements here if other than AWI/AWMAC Standards.
J. Adjustable shelf techniques here if other than AWI/AWMAC Standards.
K. Wall cabinet hanging techniques here if other than AWI/AWMAC Standards.
119
Section 400
2.7. FINISHING MATERIALS AND APPEARANCE

A. List the name of the finish system (topcoats) to be used from Section 1500
B. List the sheen desired: [Flat] [Satin] [Semi-gloss] [Gloss].
D. List the special or extra steps and/or products to be used, such as bleach, distressing, filler, glaze, shading, stain, toner
or washcoats.
2.8. FINISHING REQUIREMENTS
A. Sand work smooth and set exposed nails [and screws].
For opaque finishes, apply wood filler in exposed nail [and screw] indentations and sand smooth.
For transparent finishes, use wax or burn-in filler which blends with surrounding color and sheen, often after stain and
before final top coat.
B. When combining wood and laminates or other specialty products, careful consideration must be given to finishing
specifications. Responsibility for finish wood parts should be clarified by the design professional here.
C. Finish work in the factory in accordance with Section 1500.
400
D. [Prime paint] [Seal] surfaces in contact with cementitious materials.
Part 3. EXECUTION
3.1. EXAMINATION
A. Verify adequacy of backing and support framing.
B. Verify mechanical, electrical, and building items affecting work of this section are in place and ready to receive this
work.
3.2. INSTALLATION
A. Install work in accordance with [Premium] [Custom] [Economy] Grade, Section 1700, QSI.
B. Set and secure materials and components in place, plumb and level.
3.3. ADJUSTING
A. Adjust work under provisions of Section [
] of the contract documents.
B. Adjust moving or operating parts to function smoothly and correctly.

3.4. CLEANING
A. Clean work under provisions of Section [
120
] of the contract documents.
Section 400
400
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121
Section 400
General Criteria
400-G-1
Scope
Includes:
This section covers casework, cabinets, and fixtures, custom
manufactured in units or modules to a design for a particular
function or project. The terms cabinet and casework are used,
often interchangeably, and refer to kitchen and bath cabinets,
reception and registration desks, bank fixtures, courtroom
fittings, store and museum display cabinets, etc. The three
sections will deal with:
400A. Wood Cabinets (Transparent & Opaque Finish)
400
400B. Laminate Clad Cabinets

400C. Countertops
Excludes:
Modular Cabinets (Covered in Section 1600)
400-G-2
Specification Requirements
GRADE MUST BE SPECIFIED
These Standards provide for three Grades: Premium, Custom,
and Economy.
Premium Grade
The Grade specified when the highest degree of control over
the quality of workmanship, materials, installation, and execution of the design intent is required. Usually reserved for
special projects, or feature areas within a project.
Custom Grade
The Grade specified for most conventional architectural woodwork. This Grade provides a well defined degree of control
over the quality of workmanship, materials, and installation
of a project. The vast majority of all work produced is Custom
Grade.
Economy Grade
The Grade that defines the minimum expectation of quality,
workmanship, materials, and installation within the scope of
these Standards.
Prevailing Grade
When the Quality Standards are referenced as a part of the
contract documents and no Grade is specified, Custom Grade
standards shall prevail. In the absence of specifications,
material shall be mill option lumber or veneers suitable for
opaque finish.
Seismic Requirements Must be Specified - In the absence
of specifications, cabinets will not be fabricated to meet
any seismic code requirements prevalent in some areas
of the world.
122
Note: Structural lumber (S-DRY) is generally not a

suitable casework material. Rib materials, base frames and
kicks, etc. should be made from kiln dried hardwoods or
softwoods with a moisture content of 5 to 10%, or a suitable
panel product.
400-G-3
Identification of Parts
A. Exposed Parts - Surfaces visible when:
1. Drawer fronts and doors are closed;
2. Cabinets and shelving are open-type or behind clear
glass doors;
3. Bottoms of cabinets are seen 1219 mm [48"] or more
above finished floor;
4. Tops of cabinets are seen below 1829 mm [72"] above
finished floor, or are visible from an upper floor or staircase
after installation;
5. Portions of cabinets are visible after fixed appliances
are installed;
6. Front edges of cabinet body members are visible or seen
through a gap of greater than 3.2 mm [1/8"] with doors and
drawers closed (sim. Tests 400A-C-1 & 400B-C-1).
Note: for the purpose of factory finishing, both sides
of cabinet doors shall be considered Exposed.
B. Semi-Exposed Parts - Surfaces visible when:
1. Drawers/doors are in the open position;
2. Bottoms of cabinets are between 762 mm [30"] and up
to 1219 mm [48"] above finish floor;
3. All front edges of shelving behind doors.
C. Concealed Surfaces - Surfaces are concealed when:
1. Surfaces are not visible after installation;
2. Bottoms of cabinets are less than 762 mm [30"] above
finish floor;
3. Tops of cabinets are 1829 mm [72"] or more above finished
floor and are not visible from an upper level;
4. Stretchers, blocking and/or components are concealed
by drawers.
5. corners are created by tall, wall, or base cabinets, and
shall be non-accessible.
Caution
Special consideration should be given to raw wood parts on
high-pressure decorative laminate-clad (HPDL) cabinets such
as wood pulls, wood trims, applied mouldings, banded doors,
drawer bodies and wood cabinet interiors. Specifications regarding the responsibility for finishing (if any) should be clarified
by the design professional.
Section 400
Top and bottom fillers and corner panels are required

in Premium Grade, but optional for Custom Grade work.
400
Contrasting colors may occur (e.g. at door/drawer gaps) unless Exposed and SemiExposed finishes are carefully specified by the design professional.
Ends and backs not

visible after installation
are Concealed
Backs of applied drawer

faces are Semi-exposed
Semi-exposed
Inside cabinet backs
are Semi-exposed in
closed cabinets
OR
Inside faces of doors:

Standards require like
material and thickness
on both sides.*
Exposed
See 400A-S-3 or
400B-S-3 for Grades
Treat ends and toe kicks as Exposed surfaces

when visible after installation
*
NOTE: Requirements for Grade AA or A interiors must be clearly
specified by the owner or design professional. HPVA B Grade veneer of the same
species and cut is permitted for use on the interior face of flush cabinet doors
as a balanced construction, but both sides must be finished in the same manner,
see Sec. 1500. For Custom Grade HPDL-clad doors, the selection of the inside
color is at the option of the woodwork manufacturer in the absence of specifications.
Identification of Parts - Figure 400-01
123
Section 400
400-G-4
Plant Assembly
400-G-7
Styles of Cabinets, Scribes, and Fillers
All cabinets shall be plant assembled. Where design, delivery, or site conditions require, cabinets may be assembled in
component units with provisions made for field connecting.
Toe kicks and bases may be shipped loose depending on the
engineering of the cabinet construction and/or site and installation conditions. Shop drawings shall indicate unitizing of
cabinet construction so as to be subject for review by owners
representatives.
When type of cabinet is not specified or clearly shown, type

will be woodworkers option.
400-G-5
Work Included
Woodworker shall furnish and install cabinet hardware.
400
If not specified, hardware furnished shall be standard

with the woodworker.
If woodworker is to furnish other than woodworkers
standard hardware, it must be itemized, and sources
identified by the specifications.
The woodworker shall install special hardware furnished
by others, providing :
1. The specifications require it.
2. The hardware is delivered to the woodworker prior to
starting assembly of the cabinets.
400-G-6
Work Not Included
Unless otherwise specified, the woodworker shall not provide:
finishing or backpriming;
for any electrical, telephone, mechanical or plumbing
equipment;
3
1
A. Flush Overlay
Key Elevation - Figure 400-02
Doors (1, 2) and drawer faces (3) cover (or nearly cover) the
body members (4) of the cabinet, with spaces left between
adjacent surfaces sufficient for operating clearance.
Flush overlay construction offers a very clean, contemporary
look because only the doors and drawer fronts are visible in
elevation. When specified, grain matching between doors and
drawer fronts can be achieved by having all pieces cut from
the same panel. This style is increasingly popular and lends
itself well to the use of plastic laminate for exposed surfaces.
Conventional as well as concealed hinges are available for a
variety of door thicknesses.
common blocking (within a wall or ceiling) for the

support of cabinets;
exposed bases other than decorative laminate or wood;
or, dust panels.
Finishing Recommendation
This section does not cover finishing. However, site conditions

for finishing are rarely conducive to good results. Poor lighting,
dust-laden air, and techniques available are limiting factors.
Depending upon local practice, in many areas woodworkers
will factory finish, yielding better results than can be achieved
from field finishing. See Section 1500 for details.
Note: When incorporating lumber and veneer with HPDL

cabinets shown in Section 400B, careful consideration must be
given to the finishing requirements and responsibilities. Wood
trims, wood drawers, wood pulls, etc. require finishing. The
finishing responsibilities must be addressed. Specifications
regarding the responsibility for finishing (if any) shall be
clarified by the design professional.
124
2
Plan Section - Flush Overlay - Figure 400-03
Section 400
400-G-7 (continued)
D. Flush Inset
B. Reveal Overlay
Doors (1, 2) and drawer faces (3) partially cover the body
members or face frames (4) of the cabinet, with spaces between
face surfaces sufficient for operating clearance.
In this style, the separation between doors and drawer fronts
is accented by the reveal. The style is equally suited to either
wood or plastic laminate construction. Although the detail
shown here incorporates a reveal at all horizontal and vertical
joints, this can be varied by the designer. It should be noted
that a reveal over 12.7 mm [1/2"] may, at the woodworker's
option, require the addition of a face frame. The addition of a
face frame will change the hinge requirements. With or without a face frame, this style allows the use of conventional or
concealed hinges.
Doors (1, 2) and drawer faces (3) are inset within members (4)
of the cabinet. Gaps between the case and the doors or drawers
are often dictated by the operating clearances of the fittings.
With this style of construction, all door and drawer faces are
flush with the face of the cabinet. This style is highly functional and allows the use of different thicknesses of door and
drawer fronts.
Conventional as well as concealed hinges are available for
a variety of door thicknesses. The choice of case and door/
drawer material influence the choice of hinges. Conventional
butt hinges should be avoided when hinge screws would be
attached to the edge-grain of panel products.
This is generally an expensive style due to the increased care
necessary in the fitting and aligning of the doors and drawers.
The design features of this casework style are the same as
conventional flush with face frame except that the face frame
has been eliminated. This style does not lend itself to the economical use of plastic laminate covering finishes.
Plan Section - Reveal Overlay - Figure 400-04

C. Reveal Overlay on Face Frame
Doors (1, 2) and drawer faces (3) are set over face frames or
face members (4) on the cabinet. Finished end and scribe details
vary with the manufacturer and the QSI Grade specified for
the project by the design professional.
2
Plan Section - Flush Inset - Figure 400-06
Plan Section - Reveal Overlay (Frame) - Figure 400-05
125
400
Section 400
400-G-7 (continued)
Scribes, and Fillers
E. Flush Inset with Face Frame
Small extensions or elements added to the bottoms, sides, or

tops of cabinets where they meet the walls or other cabinets
are permitted in all cabinet styles as follows:
Doors (1, 2) and drawer faces (3) are inset next to face frames
or face members (4) on the cabinet. Finished end and scribe
details vary with the manufacturer and the QSI Grade specified
for the project by the design professional. Gaps between the
case and the doors or drawers are often dictated by the operating clearances of the fittings.
With this style of construction, all door and drawer faces are
flush with the face of the cabinet. This style is highly functional and allows the use of different thicknesses of door and
drawer fronts.
400
Minimum dimension exposed - 19 mm [3/4"]

all grades
Maximum dimension exposed, Premium Grade
- 38 mm [1-1/2"]. except when 38 mm [3"] is needed
at a 90 corner to clear hardware.
Maximum dimension exposed, Custom and
Economy Grades - 76 mm [3"]
Conventional as well as concealed hinges are available for

a variety of door thicknesses. The choice of case and door/
drawer material influence the choice of hinges. Conventional
butt hinges should be avoided when hinge screws would be
attached to the edge-grain of panel products.
This is generally the most expensive of the four styles shown
in this publication due to the increased care necessary in the
fitting and aligning of the doors and drawers, in addition to
the cost of providing the face frame.
This style does not lend itself to the economical use of plastic
laminate covering.
Plan Section - Flush Inset (Frame) - Figure 400-07
126
Filler or Scribe at wall

and between cabinets
Fillers - Figure 400-08
Section 400
400-G-7 (continued)
NOTE: The selection of joinery for the underside of typical wall cabinets is the option of the manufacturer in the
absence of specifications. Design professionals shall consult with manufacturers early in the design process for suggestions and
solutions. When a particular style is required it shall be specified.
NOTE: Traditional face frame cabinets

will often be built so the frame extends
beyond the vertical edge of the case
body. This allows the cabinets to be
fastened to each other through the
edges of the frames. The resulting joint
is very tight and smooth. A small gap
between cases, 6 mm [1/4"] or less, is
visible on the underside, and is
acceptable for this style cabinet.
Underside of wall cabinets: Type "A" flush

Each element clad/finished individually
Underside of wall cabinets: Type "B" flush

Each cabinet clad/finished individually
400
Underside of wall cabinets:

Traditional face frame type
Underside of wall cabinets: Type "A" reveal

Each element clad/finished individually
Underside of wall cabinets: Type "C" flush

Underside clad/finished after assembly
Wall Cabinet Bottom Finish Conditions - Figure 400-09
127
Section 400
400-G-8
Minimum Nominal Thickness and Material for Cabinet Components (other than doors)
These general minimums apply to all 400A and 400B cabinet standards. In the absence of specifications, or specific criteria in
these standards, the following standards will apply. In the absence of specifications, the following standards will apply. Where
more than one method or material is listed, AWI/AWMAC woodworkers will supply their choice from the alternatives.
400
Cabinet Components
Materials
Minimum Nominal Thickness
Body Members - (ends [gables], divisions,

fixed shelves, bottoms, tops)
Panel product
19 mm [3/4"]
Face Frames, Rails, Toe Kicks, Cab.

Bases
Lumber or Panel product
19 mm [3/4"]
Lumber
19 mm [3/4"] for spans up to 914 mm [36"]

27 mm [1-1/16"] for spans up to 1219 mm [48"]
Veneer Core Plywood
19 mm [3/4"] for spans up to 914 mm [36"]

27 mm [1-1/16"] for spans up to 1219 mm [48"]
Medium Density Particleboard

or Medium Density Fiberboard
19 mm [3/4"] for spans up to 813 mm [32]

25.4 mm [1"] for spans up to 1067 mm [42"]
Panel Product
6.4 mm [1/4"]
Mounting or hanger strips
Lumber or Panel Product
12.7 mm [1/2"]
Drawer sides, backs, and subfronts
12.7 mm [1/2"]
Panel Product
6.4 mm [1/4"]
19 mm [3/4"]
Adjustable Shelves - Consult your

woodwork manufacturer during the
design phase for engineering suggestions to minimize deflection of heavily
loaded shelves or long spans.
No shelf in conventional base or wall
cabinets at these dimensions shall be
expected to carry over 23 kg [50 lbs.]
per square foot total distributed load.
Backs
Drawer bottoms
Drawer fronts
Stile and rail cabinet door and drawer thickness - 19 mm [3/4"] minimum nominal thickness. Special consideration should be
given to building very wide and/or very tall doors of this thickness. Consult your manufacturer for guidelines.
Glass doors - Frames: 19 mm [3/4"] minimum nominal thickness, glass to meet local code. Frameless glass: 6.4 mm [1/4"]
nominal thickness.
Flush cabinet door limits - 19 mm [3/4"] medium density particleboard or medium density fiberboard core up to 762 mm [30"]
width by 2032 mm [80"] height, with like materials and thicknesses both faces. Veneer core doors will not be guaranteed
against warping, telegraphing, or delamination. Larger doors require special design, engineering, and fabrication. Design
teams and manufacturers shall work together to develop sound solutions.
Shelf Deflection Information

The Department of Wood Science in the Division of Forestry at
West Virginia University conducted a study for the Architectural
Woodwork Institute regarding the deflection of wood shelving
materials under various amount of stress. The following table
represents their findings with the various products tested.
The table shows total uniformly distributed load requirements
necessary to cause deflection of 1/4 inch in shelves 8 and 12
inches wide with spans (i.e. unfixed, supported at each end)
of 30, 36, 42, and 48 inches. Load required to deflect shelves
more or less than 1/4 inch may be estimated by direct proportion.
128
For example, the uniformly distributed load required to cause

a deflection of 1/8 inch is one-half that of the value in the table.
For width different than 8 or 12 inches (the values used in the
table), load required to cause a 1/4 inch deflection may also
be determined by direct proportion. A 6 inch wide shelf, for
example, will deflect twice as much as a 12 inch wide shelf
under the same load.
Section 400
The following equation shows how deflection is related to shelf dimensions, width, thickness, span, load per inch of span and
E-value, a material property which measures stiffness or resistance to deflection. The higher the E-value the less the deflection.
When a shelf is made with several materials, each with its own E-value, a composite E-value must be determined. The study
was developed in the inch-pound method and is not converted to metric for this example.
To compute deflection:
4
D= 0.1563wl
Ebh3
In which the values are:
D = deflection (in inches)
w = load per lineal inch of span
l = span (length)
E = modulus of elasticity
b = base (width)
h = depth (thickness)
400
Shelf Deflection of /4" by Estimated Total Distributed Load in Pounds

1
Material
Yellow-Poplar
Red Gum
Sweet Gum
Hard Maple
Pecan
Red Oak
Birch
Hickory
Medium density particleboard
(raw or covered with melamine
Medium density fiberboard
(raw or covered with melamine
Birch faced plywood, veneer core
Thickness
Span
36"
42"
48"
8"
12"
8"
12"
8"
12"
8"
12"
322
lbs.
912
483
lbs.
1368
189
lbs.
528
284
lbs.
790
1 17
lbs.
332
175
lbs.
498
78
lbs.
221
117
lbs.
332
1-1/16"
356 534
lbs. lbs.
1021 1536
209
lbs.
592
313
lbs.
888
133
lbs.
373
206
lbs.
560
88
lbs.
249
133
lbs.
374
lumber 13-/14/"16"
400 600
1134 1701
232
660
348
990
146
414
219
621
98
277
146
415
3/4"
1"
3/4"
1"
78
185
100
237
117
277
150
356
46
109
58
137
69
164
87
206
29
69
36
85
43
102
54
128
19
45
25
59
28
66
38
90
3/4"
145
218
86
129
54
81
36
54
lumber
lumber
)
)
3/4"
1-1/16"
3/4"
Width
30"
Birch faced plywood, medium density

3/4"
125 188
72
109
46
68
31
46
particleboard core
Medium density particleboard covered two 3/4"
sides and one edge with nominal 0.028"
174 261 100 139
64
96
42
63
(core)
high pressure decorative laminate
Medium density particleboard covered two
3/4"
sides and one edge with nominal 0.050"
234 350 137 205
86
129
58
87
(core)
high pressure decorative laminate
Medium density particleboard with 1/8"
3/4"
89
139
53
79
33
50
22
33
solid lumber edge
Medium density particleboard with 3/4"
3/4"
100 150
60
90
42
63
25
38
solid lumber edge
Medium density particleboard with 3/4" x 13/4"
384 435 216 241 132 152
92
107
1/2" solid lumber dropped edge
NOTE: All medium density particle board is ANSI 208.1-1998 Type M-2.
The information and ratings stated here pertain to material currently offered and represent results of tests believed to be
reliable. However, due to variations in handling and in methods not known or under our control, neither the AWI nor the
AWMAC can make any warranties or guarantees as to end results.
129
Section 400
400-G-9
Casework Standard Dimensions
The casework dimensions given here represent long-established standard dimensions of the casework industry. They are intended
for use as guidelines only. The design professional shall specify interior minimum or maximum dimensions if these are critical
for the use intended. Because architectural casework is by definition custom designed and manufactured, any and all of the
dimensions given here can be changed to suit special design considerations. (Dimensions are in inches.)
Good design involves the proper specification of materials, their thickness, and support to meet load requirements, not to exceed
90 kg [ 200 lbs.] on any one shelf in any case. Realistic industry standards rarely exceed 23 kg [ 50 lbs.] per square foot.
The ADA guidelines are just that, guidelines, and do not constitute legal advice. For complete information, design professionals
shall consult a reprint of the U.S. Department of Justice 28 Code of Federal Regulations Part 36, Nondiscrimination on the Basis
of Disability by Public Accommodations and in Commercial Facilities, latest edition, and specify accordingly. Guidelines may
vary for work in Canada. Consult the National Building Code of Canada, latest edition, for complete information.
Standard Cabinets
400
ADA Compliant Guidelines

See Appendix and 28 CFR Part 36
G
H
B
F
K
E
A
M
D
A. Standup - 36
Sit Down - 30
Vanity - 31
Sewing, Typing - 26
B. 18
C. 18 to 36 typical range
D. 4
E. 1-1/2 or 1-1/4
F. 4
G. 12
H. 24; Vanity 22-1/2
J. 3/4 to 1-1/2 typical range
K. 21 to 22-1/2 typical range
L. 3 to 4
M. 24-1/2 (knee space)
H
B
F
K
E
A
M
D
A. Side reach - 34
Vanity - 34 sink rim
B. (not regulated)
C. 44 to 54 reach limits
see 28 CFR/36
D. (not regulated)
E. (not regulated)
F. (not regulated)
G. (not regulated)
H. 24; Vanity 22-1/2
J. 3/4 to 1-1/2 typical range
K. 21 to 22-1/2 typical range
L. (not regulated)
M. 27 (knee clearance)
Figure 400-10
A. 50 to 54
B. 40 to 42
C. 12
D. 38-1/2 to 40-1/2
E. Optional
F. 32 to 24
G. 12
H. 8
J. 24
A. 30 Sit down; 26 Typing

B. 24-1/2
C. 12
D. 42 - ADA 34 cutaway
E. 8
F. 24
G. 4
C
G
CL
Door thickness
1-3/8 to 1-3/4
recommended:
hollow core
or solid core
A
D
B
D
A-30
B
A. 84
B. 66
C. 1-7/8
D. 4
E. 12 to 24
F. 11
(Requires 24 depth)
G. 3
A-26
D
G
Reception counter
Teller counter
Tall cabinets
Figure 400-11
130
Section 400
400
131
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
Technical Criteria
400A-T-1 Flush Wood Exposed and Semi-exposed Materials
In the absence of specifications, the following standards will apply. Where more than one method or material is listed, AWI/
AWMAC woodworkers will supply their choice from the alternatives.. A check indicates permitted for the Grade specified.
400
Premium
Custom
Materials for Transparent Finish
Exposed Panel Products (Transparent Finish) [Face veneer standards are defined in Section 200]
"AA" Face Veneer (core: particleboard if not specified)
"A" Face Veneer (core: particleboard if not specified)
"B" Face Veneer (core: particleboard if not specified)

Blending of Panel Products across multiple cabinet faces in one elevation
Fabricated from sequenced and numbered panel sets, well matched
for grain, figure, and color. Specify for center matched or balanced
matched components. See NOTE below.
Economy
Warehouse stock panels, compatible for color
No match required, not selected for grain or color
Direction and matching of exposed wood grain on vertical surfaces of individual cabinets
Continuous vertical figure (length of material permitting) and
selection for pleasing blend of figure and color per elevation

Continuous vertical figure across doors of individual cabinet (length
of material permitting); drawer fronts may be horizontal or vertical
figure without sequence (not required from cabinet to cabinet)

No Match Required
NOTE: Sequence matching on one item or a suite of items, and/or balance or center match on each panel is available and
must be specified if required in any grade. For Premium Grade wood cabinets, continuous run areas (elevations) must be
identified by drawings and specifications, including the veneer matching method required. In the absence of such
information, premanufactured panel sets will be utilized. See Section 200 for data on matching.
Exposed Solid Lumber Parts (Transparent Finish) [Lumber standards are defined in Section 100]
Grade I (well matched for color and grain) Same species as adjacent
face veneer on panel product unless otherwise specified

Grade II (compatible for color) Same species as adjacent face veneer
on panel product unless otherwise specified

Grade III (no selection required)
Semi-exposed Parts (Transparent Finish) [not including drawer bodies and backs of flush doors]
B Face Veneer (compatible species to exposed, cut or slicing at
option of the manufacturer)

Thermoset Decorative Overlay, solid color ("melamine")
Grade II solid lumber (compatible species to exposed, cut or sawing
at option of the manufacturer)

Mill option panel product and/or veneer and/or solid lumber
Concealed Parts (Transparent Finish)

Kiln dried lumber, SCL, panel products - 5-10% M.C.: Mill Option
Flush Cabinet Door Limits - 19mm [3/4"] medium density particleboard or medium density fiberboard core up to 762mm
[30"] width by 2032mm [80"] height, with like materials and thicknesses both faces. Veneer core doors will not be
guaranteed against warping, telegraphing, or delamination. Larger doors require special design, engineering, and
fabrication. Design teams and manufacturers shall work together to develop sound solutions.
132
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-1
Flush Wood Exposed and Semi-exposed Materials (continued)
Custom
Economy
Materials for Opaque Finish
Premium
Exposed Panel Products (Opaque Finish)
Medium density fiberboard or medium density overlay
Mill option
Exposed Solid Lumber Parts (Opaque Finish)

Close grained hardwood
Mill option
Semi-exposed or Concealed Parts (Opaque Finish)

Mill option
Flush Cabinet Door & Drawer Front Thickness - 19 mm [3/4"] up to 762 mm [30"] width by 2032 mm [80"] height
using either medium density particleboard or medium density fiberboard core with like materials and thicknesses on both
faces. Beginning with the 7th edition, veneer core plywood doors were not allowed in Premium Grade and are not
generally guaranteed against warping, telegraphing, or delamination in any Grade. Larger doors require special design,
engineering, and fabrication. Design teams and manufacturers should work together to develop sound solutions.
Note: Structural Lumber (S-DRY) is not a suitable casework material. Rib materials, base frames and kicks, etc. shall
be made from kiln-dried hardwoods or softwoods with a moisture content of 5 to 10%, or a suitable panel product.
Veneer core plywood has been used in the past. Its use today and in the future will become much less prevalent. The use of
veneer core plywood is only recommended in circumstances where the structural strength and moisture resistance of the plywood outweighs the negative characteristics of warping, telegraphing, and inconsistent thickness. The use of veneer core is not
recommended for use on doors and/or drawer fronts and will not be guaranteed.
Grain direction (the appearance of the figure) shall run vertically for all doors in every Grade, and shall
run vertically or horizontally on drawer fronts in Custom and Economy, with the same direction maintained
on any one cabinet or elevation of cabinets. Premium and Custom doors shall be set matched.
Premium Grade
Doors & Drawer fronts
from sequenced panel sets, well
matched for grain, figure & color
Custom Grade
Drawer fronts no
match required. May be
solid or panel product.
Economy Grade
It is unusual to carry the figure of the cabinet fronts on to the toe kicks. If that is to be part of the design sthetic, it shall be
clearly specified by the design team.
Direction and matching - Figure 400-12
133
400
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-2
Edge Treatment of Exposed and Semi-exposed Panel Products
In the absence of specifications, the following Standards will apply. Where more than one method or material is listed for a
Grade, manufacturers will supply their choice from the alternatives. There are no requirements for concealed surfaces.
400
Visible edges of panel products shall be treated by applying edge bandings using automatic edgebander or glue and
pressure or, in the case of Economy Grade, fillers as indicated below. In cases where raw MDF is intended to have a clear
or opaque finish, no edge banding is required. Body members or shelves in semi-exposed conditions shall have an
edgeband that matches the body member or shelf. Back edges and ends of adjustable shelves within cases are not
considered to be visible. Edges may be banded before or after (industry standard) face, at manufacturer's option.
Edgebanding in excess of this standard must be specified. PVC edge banding varies between 0.5 mm and 5 mm and
should be evaluated and specified or approved by the design professional as desired. The following standards apply to
PVC or self-edged cabinet parts. Special design considerations may require special solutions by the woodworker.
Thickness dimension tolerance is 0.05 mm [0.002"]. Close Grain is defined in the Glossary in the Appendix.
Premium Grade
Edge Material and
Component
Application
Transparent
Opaque
M
a
t
e
r
i
a
l
S
a
m
e
S
p
e
c
i
e
s
a
n
d
C
u
t
a
s
F
a
c
e
C
l
o
s
e
Grain Material
Body Members,
Face Frames
Nominal Thickness
.5 mm [.020"]
Material
Same Species as Body Face
Close Grain Material
Exposed Shelves
Nominal Thickness
.5 mm [.020"]
Material
Compatible with self
Semi-exposed Shelves
Nominal Thickness
.5 mm [.020"]
Same Species and Cut as Member
Material
Doors and
Face
Drawer Fronts (1)
Nominal Thickness
.5 mm [.020"]
Component
Body Members,
Face Frames
Exposed Shelves
Doors and
Drawer Fronts (2)
Component
Body Members,
Face Frames
Exposed Shelves
Edge Material and

Application
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Edge Material and

Application
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Custom Grade
Transparent
Same Species as Face
.5 mm
.5 mm
.5 mm
Same Species as Member Face
.5 mm
Opaque
[ .0 2 0 " ]
[ .0 2 0 " ]
[ .0 2 0 " ]
[ .0 2 0 " ]
Economy Grade
Transparent
Opaque
Compatible Species
Filled and Sanded
.5 mm [.020"]
Compatible Species
Filled and Sanded
.5 mm [.020"]
Filled and Sanded
.5 mm [.020"]
Compatible Species
Filled and Sanded
.5 mm [.020"]
Doors and
Drawer Fronts (3)
NOTES:
(1) Premium Grade - All edges must be banded. (Edges showing more than 6.4 mm [1/4"] on face will be mitered.)
(2) Custom Grade - All edges must be banded. (This was an additional requirement of the 6th edition.)
(3) Economy Grade - All edges must be banded, where banding is required.
134
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
NOTE: For increased durability, specify either an edge

band or chamfer treatment at the lower edge of a die
wall toe kick.
1
Veneer Edgeband - Sec. 1
Lapped Joint (manufacturers option)

Veneered Panel Products
400
Solid Edgeband - Sec. 2
Mitered Joint (over 6.4 mm [1/4"]

in Premium Grade)
Edge Treatment - Figure 400-13
400A-T-3
Flush Wood Cabinet Doors and Drawer Fronts
AWMAC woodworkers will supply their choice from the alternatives. Face veneer Standards are defined in Section 200. A check
indicates permitted for the Grade specified.
Transparent Finish
"AA" face veneer, "B" back veneer, same species & cut, with veneer
edgebanding, same species & cut
"A" face veneer, "B" back veneer, same species & cut with veneer
edgebanding, same species
"B" face veneer, mill option back veneer with veneer edgebanding,
same species
Premium
Custom
Economy
Solid Lumber (drawer fronts only)
Glass Doors - Frames: 19mm [3/4"] minimum nominal thickness, glass to meet local code
Frameless Glass: 6.4mm [1/4"] nominal
Flush Cabinet Door Limits - 19mm [3/4"] medium density particleboard or medium density fiberboard core up to 762mm
[30"] width by 2032mm [80"] height, with like materials and thicknesses both faces. Veneer core doors will not be
Opaque Finish
Medium density fiberboard
Medium density particleboard
Premium
Custom
Economy
135
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-4
Stile and Rail Wood Doors, Drawer Fronts, and Exposed Materials
AWMAC woodworkers will supply their choice from the alternatives.
Materials
Premium
Transparent
Opaque
Lumber grade for Exposed Parts (see Section 100)
I
Well matched
Close grain
Stiles, rails, mullions and for grain and
hardwood or
applied mouldings
color between
MDF
veneer and
lumber
400
Flat panels
Raised panels
Face veneer grade for

transparent finish and
material for opaque finish
II
Compatible
for color
between
veneer and
lumber
Close grain
hardwood or
M DF
II
Permitted for panels less than
356 mm [14"] across the grain
II
I
II
Used to rim panel product
Used to rim
Used to rim
centers and permitted for
panel product panel product
panels less than 356 mm [14"]
centers
centers
across the grain
Not permitted, panel product

required
Panel Products for Exposed Parts (see Section 200)

Core for veneered stiles
Particleboard or fiberboard
and rails
Core for veneered flat and
raised panels
Custom
Transparent
Opaque
"AA" face
well matched
for grain and
color between
veneer and
lumber
MDF
Particleboard
or fiberboard
Economy
Transparent
Opaque
II
With no
selection for
grain or color
II
Permitted for panels in any
dimension
Mill option
Particleboard Particleboard
or fiberboard or fiberboard
recommended recommended
"A" face
compatible for
color between
veneer and
lumber
MDF
Mill option
"B" face
veneer
Mill option
Mill option
Minimum Assembly Width (some hardware requires wider stiles or rails)

Stiles and rails, lumber
63.5 mm [2-1/2"]
63.5 mm [2-1/2"]
Mill option
89 mm [3-1/2"]
89 mm [3-1/2"]
Mill option
Stiles and rails
19 mm [3/4"]
19 mm [3/4"]
19 mm [3/4"]
Flat panels
6.4 mm [1/4"]
6.4 mm [1/4"]
6.4 mm [1/4"]
Stiles and rails, MDF

Minimum Assembly Thickness
Raised panels
12.7 mm [1/2"]
12.7 mm [1/2"]
12.7 mm [1/2"]
NOTE: Wood has natural markings and characteristics which will enhance the beauty and value of any project.
However, these natural characteristics may, when seen in the final product, not fulfill the design professional s intent.
Therefore, it is the responsibility of the design professional to review the allowable criteria, for these characteristics, in
Sections 100 and 200 of this Standard, to insure that material being specified will meet the project requirements. Veneer
slicing produces a tight and loose face on each leaf of veneer. Book matching of some species accentuates this condition,
reflecting light differently in adjacent leaves and even causing differences in the absorption of stain. Consult your
AWI/AWMAC woodwork manufacturer, when specifying veneer panels. Glass panels, decorative wire panels, stained
glass, beveled glass, etched glass, etc., shall be specified by the design professional, including appropriate safety
considerations and method of retention.
136
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-5
Stile and Rail Workmanship
Workmanship
Finish Condition
Cut of Lumber
Cut of Veneer
Matching Considerations
Stile and rail orientation
Premium
Transparent
Opaque
Plain sawn
Plain sawn
Plain sliced
Mill option
Custom
Transparent
Opaque
Plain sawn
Plain sawn
Plain sliced
Mill option
Top, cross & bottom rails shall run between the vertical stiles.
Mullions shall run between horizontal rails. For Transparent
finish, components shall be well matched for grain and color,
member-to-member. No selection required for opaque finish.
Economy
Transparent
Opaque
Mill option
Mill option
Veneer match between

adjacent leaves on a single Book match
Mill option
Book match
Mill option
Mill option
panel face
Note on Special Matching: Book Match and End Match or Slip Match and End Match, or Special Sketch Faces must be
specified and detailed in the architectural drawings. Sequence match on one item or a suite of items, and/or balance or
center match on each panel is available and must be specified if required in any grade. For Premium Grade wood cabinets,
continuous run areas must be identified by drawings and specifications, including the veneer matching method required. In
the absence of such information, premanufactured panel sets will be utilized. See Section 200 for data on matching.
Consult a member manufacturer for design solutions.
Veneer match within each
Balance
Mill option
Running
Mill option
Mill option
panel face
Pleasing blend
Warehouse
of figure and
Veneer sequence between
stock, pleasing
color from
adjacent panels
match for
sequenced and Mill option
Mill option
Mill option
(Blueprint match available.
grain and
numbered
See Section 200.)
color
premanufactured panel sets
Solid lumber panel
Not permitted
Fiberboard or MDO panel
Selected for compatibility of

color (transparent finish only)
Mill option
Permitted with or without veneer, as specified, for transparent or opaque finish in any Grade
Raised Panels
Solid Raised Panel, glued for
width - Maximum [356 mm]
Solid MDF
Mill option
14" or Solid simulated raised
panel, veneered MDF
NOTE: All panels on a project must be either Rim Raised or Solid but not mixed.
Rim Raised,
Veneered
Center
Flat Panels
Veneered
Veneered
Solid MDF
Mill option
Mill option
MDF
MDF
NOTE: Veneered panels, for transparent finish, over [6 mm] 1/4" core thickness may be Particleboard Core panel product
137
400
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-6
Stile and Rail Machining and Joinery
Machining
400
Premium
Custom
Economy
Plant Machining Considerations

Doors shall be manufactured to a thickness tolerance of 0.8 mm [ 1/32"] of specified
Door sizing
thickness.
Regardless of method of retention, panels must have freedom and room to expand and
Panel retention note
contract in reaction to ambient humidity changes.
Stile width must be designed to allow for hardware clearances. A minimum of 12.7 mm
Hardware clearance
[1/2"] of stile must remain between the hardware and the edge of adjacent panel or glass.
Joinery and Assembly Considerations
Mortise and tenon, dowels or
Mating male/female sticking,
Stiles, rails, and mullions
loose tenon joinery, glued
Mill option
glued under pressure
under pressure
Moulded profiles (sticking) shall be at the option of the manufacturer, unless full size details are shown in bid
documents.
Edge glued and
Edge glued and
Solid lumber panels
Not permitted
planed/sanded to thickness
planed/sanded to thickness
(up to 356 mm [14"])
Mitered; glued to panel body Mitered; glued to panel body Mitered; glued to panel body
Raised panel rims
under pressure
under pressure
under pressure
Panel core must be covered
Panel core must be covered
Panel product centers
by veneer or concealed by
by veneer or concealed by
No edge treatment required
rim moulding
rim moulding
Plant fastened; spot glued,
Applied mouldings
fine finish nailed, set, filled
fine finish nailed
fine finish nailed
and sanded
Minimum Veneer Thickness (visible surface species)
Veneer on stile and rail
Industry standard (varies by species) of sufficient thickness to preclude show through or
telegraphing of core after sanding.
Veneer on panels
Edge Treatments of Stiles and Rails
Finish ----> Transparent
Transparent
Opaque
Transparent
Opaque
All exposed
All exposed
edges one
Outside square edge: solid
edges one
piece (no
lumber (top and bottom
piece (no
Mill option
joints),
Mill option
Mill option
Mill option
not considered exposed
joints), same
compatible
edges)
species as
species to
face
face
Inside Moulded Edge
Permitted only in solid lumber. Profile must be capable of being coped without feather edge.
NOTE: Site applied mouldings are governed by Sections 300 and 1700. This table applies to mouldings contained
wholly within an individual panel or used as rim or panel retention members.
Integral Applied Moulding: Acceptable with solid or veneered stiles and rails. Mouldings must be mitered. Mouldings
must be fastened to stile or rail (not to panel to permit movement), utilizing not more than two positioning nails.
Glass and Glazing
Type, thickness, and manufacturer of glass, particularly decorative glass, must be specified as its construction dictates
details of the receiving members. Specfications regarding code compliance are the responsibility of the design
professional.
The woodwork manufacturer shall furnish glass and glass retention only when specified. In the absence of specification,
glass and glass retention methods are mill option.
138
Opaque
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
Stile and rail construction: These examples illustrate some of the possible joinery techniques and glass retention options for
cabinet doors. They are intended as a guide to assist the design professional. They are not the only possible solutions.
Haunched
Mortise
and Tenon
Slot Mortise
and Tenon
Dowleled
400
Mating Sticking
Single Thickness Glass
Single Thickness Glass

Flush mount retainers
Metal glass retainer
Applied
Raised
Moulding
S4S
Applied
Stop
Tapered pad retainer
Stile and Rail Joinery Options - Figure 400-14
139
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
Panel cabinet doors: These examples illustrate three styles of raised panel and flat panel doors. Applied Moulding could be used for
glass inserts as well. They are intended as a guide to assist the design professional. They are not the only possible solutions.
Stile
Solid Raised Panel

or Membranewrapped veneer
over stable
panel product
Solid
Sticking
Rail
400
Solid Raised Panel - Figure 400-15
Rim Raised Panel

Stile
Solid
Sticking
Rail
Rim Raised Panel - Figure 400-16
Optional
Spacer
Flat or Raised Panel
Stile
Applied
Raised
Moulding
Rail
Applied Moulding - Figure 400-17

140
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-7
Drawer Sides and Backs
In the absence of specifications, the following standards will apply. Where more than one method or material is listed for a Grade,
manufacturers will supply their choice from the alternatives. A check indicates permitted for the Grade specified.
Drawer Side Materials
Premium
Custom
Economy
Single species solid lumber with a Section 100-G-1 hardness rating
of Medium or better (minimum 12.7 mm [1/2"] finished thickness)

7 ply all hardwood veneer core plywood, no voids
(minimum 12.7 mm [1/2"] thickness); No edge band required.

High pressure decorative laminate (HPDL) on 7 ply veneer core
substrate (minimum 12.7 mm [1/2"] thickness)

Edgebanded HPDL or thermoset decorative overlay on particleboard
core (minimum 12.7 mm [1/2"] thickness)

Medium density particleboard or medium density fiberboard
(minimum 9.5 mm [3/8"] thickness)

Note: Premanufactured drawer systems are available from many woodwork manufacturers and must be evaluated and
specified or approved by the design professional when desired.
400A-T-8
Drawer Bottoms 6.4 mm [1/4"] Minimum Nominal Thickness
Drawer Bottom Materials
Premium
Custom
Economy
Veneer core panel product, "B" face hardwood veneer
Thermoset decorative overlay panel product
Hardboard (smooth side visible inside)
Separate Drawer Front 19 mm

[3/4"] min.
Body 12.7 mm [1/2"] min.
Body 12.7 mm [1/2"] min.

Bottom 6 mm [1/4"] min. captured
4 sides
Detail when bottom-mount hardware

is specified or approved by design professional
Bottom 12.7 mm [1/2"] min.
9 mm [3/8"] standing shoulder

Section at Drawer
Drawer Section - Figure 400-18
141
400
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-9
Drawer Construction Techniques/Supports
In the absence of specifications, the following standards will apply. In the absence of specifications, the following standards will
apply. Where more than one method or material is listed, AWI/AWMAC woodworkers will supply their choice from the alternatives. Premanufactured drawer systems, when approved or specified, will be assumed to meet the Grade of work for which the
approval was granted or the specification written. A check indicates permitted for the Grade specified.
Construction Technique
Premium
Custom
Economy
Lock shoulder, glued and pin nailed
Miterfolded from a single panel in one machining process
Multiple dovetail (all corners) or French dovetail front/dadoed back,

Doweled, glued under pressure (min. 32 mm dowel spacing to
102 mm [4"] high, 64 mm dowel spacing above 102 mm [4"])
400

Square Shoulder, nailed or stapled
Bottoms shall be set into sides, back and front, 6.4 mm [1/4"] deep
groove with minimum 9 mm [3/8"] standing shoulder
Bottoms shall be set into sides and front, 6.4mm [1/4"] deep groove
with minimum 9 mm [3/8"] standing shoulder
Bottom installation technique mill option

Hardware (Static Load)
Combination metal and roller bearing drawer slides, pencil drawer 23 kg [50 lb.], three-quarter extension; box drawer (up to 152mm
[6"] deep) - 34 kg [75 lb.], three-quarter extension; deep drawer
(above 152mm [6"]) - 45 kg [100 lb.], three-quarter extension;
designated file drawers - 45 kg [100 lb.], full extension; lateral file
longer than 610mm [24"] - 57 kg [175 lb.]
Premium
Custom
Economy
Plastic roller or friction drawer glides/guides
Wood drawer guides with tip rail
Spring loaded tip-down stops shall be provided on all drawers

(design permitting) unless a stop is built into a metal drawer slide.
No tip-down stops required

Mechanical stops prevent impact on the drawer front.
Designated file drawers shall have a minimum inside clear height of

267mm [10-1/2"] and have a follower mechanism or be of a size to
allow the use of hanging folders on a system stand or integral rails.

Note: Premanufactured drawer systems, including bottom-mounted and epoxy-coated slides, are available from many
woodwork manufacturers and must be evaluated and specified or approved by the design professional when desired.
Drawers shall operate smoothly, properly fitted to the cabinet without excessive play. All drawers shall fill the cabinet
depth, less a maximum of 5 mm [2"], and from top to bottom to the greatest extent practical.
142
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
Front
Front
Permitted in
Grade
Dovetail
Dowel
Premium
Custom
Economy
Premium
Custom
Economy
Premium
Custom
Economy
Notes:
and
Recommended
Material
Choices 3
Front
Front
French Dovetail Lock Shoulder Square Shoulder
Miterfold
Premium
Custom
Economy
Premium
Custom
Economy
Economy
All four sides and

the bottom are
machined from
one piece
Veneer Core
Combo. Core
Particle Core
Fiber Core
Solid Lumber
Front
Front
NOTES: In the absence of specifications, the following standards will apply. Where more than one method or material
is listed, AWI/AWMAC woodworkers will supply their choice from the alternatives.
1 - The European system assembly screw or dowel screw with matching caps is permitted in this configuration
when material is 19mm [3/4"] or thicker.
2 - Fully captured bottoms are not feasible when French Dovetail joinery is employed.
3 - While virtually all materials can be painted, stained, finished, or clad with veneers or overlays, solid lumber is
usually selected for species and then painted, stained and/or finished. Panel products may also be painted, stained,
and/or finished in their raw state as well as veneered or clad with another product. Thermoset Decorative Overlays
are generally limited to particle core panel products.
400A-T-10
Concealed 35 mm cup Hinge Installation Requirements
Drawer Joinery - Figure 400-19
Concealed Hinges Styles - Figure 400-20

When 35 mm cup hinges are used, plastic insertion dowels to receive the screws of the hinge and 5 mm Euroscrews to attach
the baseplate are required. The attachment of hinge bodies to particleboard or fiberboard doors with wood screws in the absence
of the plastic insertion dowels is not acceptable in Premium or Custom Grade. Manufacturers may use other solutions to assure
long-term functionality, as agreed between buyer and seller. At the time of this printing, only hinges showing a small knuckle
meet BHMA Grade 1, and no fully concealed 35 mm cup is available tested to BHMA Grade 1.
143
400
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-11
Adjustable Shelf Techniques/Supports
Support, Materials, and Gap Tolerance
Premium
Custom
Economy
Adjustable shelf metal shelf standards (recessed flush)
Adjustable shelf multiple holes (min. 5 mm diameter, dual pins)
Adjustable shelf metal shelf standards (surface mounted)
Adjustable shelf multiple holes (min. 5 mm diameter, single pin)
Adjustable shelf mill Option supports
Maximum gap between each end of shelf and case side or standard
400
1.6 mm [1/16"] 1.6 mm [1/16"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
Center line of holes or standards shall be a min. of 24.5 mm [1"] and a max. of 76 mm [3"] from the front and back edge
of the depth of shelf to be supported, with a spread of no less than 60% of the shelf depth in any case.
25 mm [1"]
25 mm [1"]
19 mm [3/4"]
Unsupported fixed shelf and/or cabinet bottom 1067 mm [42"] to
particleboard or particleboard or particleboard or
1220 mm [48"] to support 40 lb. total distributed load
better
better
better
Fixed shelf and/or cabinet bottom 1220 mm [48"] or more supported
19 mm [3/4"] particleboard or better
by cleat at back edge or securely fastened thru back
by center divider or other intermediate support
Note: A variety of engineered shelf supports are available from member manufacturers and should be evaluated and
specified or approved by the design professional when desired. Gaps at adjustable shelf ends shall be greater when
required by design, selected shelf hardware, or shelf material thickness considerations. Unsupported shelves or cabinet
bottoms in excess of 1220 mm [48"] not permitted in any Grade.
Multiple
Holes
Recessed
Standards
Surface
Standards
Adjustable Shelves - Figure 400-21
144
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-12
Joinery of Case Body Members
Joinery Table
Premium
Custom
Economy
Tops, exposed ends and bottoms (finished ends on casework shall be integral, not applied secondarily)
Stop dado*, glued with pressure, and either nailed, stapled or
screwed (fasteners will not be visible on exposed parts)
Doweled, glued with pressure; approx. 1 per 75 mm of joint [4/foot]
European assembly screws (37 mm from end, 128 mm on center,

fasteners will not be visible on exposed parts)
Fully concealed interlocking mechanical system
Spline or biscuit, glued with pressure (approx. 1 per 100 mm of joint)
Through dado, glued with pressure; or exposed European assembly

screws with trim caps
400
Exposed end corner details and face frame attachment

Mitered joint: lock miter or spline or biscuit, glued under pressure
(no visible fasteners)
Non-mitered joints, i.e. 90 degree applications: butt joint glued under
pressure (no visible fasteners)
Butt joint, glued and finish nailed
Butt joint, finish nailed
Cabinet backs - Wall hung

In all Grades, wall hung cabinet backs must not be relied upon to support the full weight of the cabinet and its anticipated
load for hanging/mounting purposes. Hanging/mounting mechanisms should transfer load to case body member(s).
Captured in grooves on cabinet sides and bottom; securely fastened
Side bound, captured in groove or rabbetts; securely fastened
Full overlay, plant-on backs: min. 12.7 mm [1/2"] thick attached with
min. #8 low root, high thread (not "drywall") screws spaced max.
Edge of back
200 mm [8"] on center. Anchor strips not required for backs 12.7 mm not exposed on
[1/2"] or thicker, so attached.
finished ends
Mill option, but backs are required when back is exposed to view
after installation and for all wall cabinets in any Grade of Work.
Edge of back
not exposed on
finished ends
Edge of back
exposed on
finished ends
Cabinet backs - Floor standing

Side bound, captured in grooves; securely fastened to top and bottom
Side bound, placed in rabbets; securely fastened in rabbets
Edge of back
[1/2"] or thicker, so attached. (See illustrations following this table.)
finished ends
Edge of back
not exposed on
finished ends
Edge of back
exposed on
finished ends
Mill option, back required when specified or when exposed to view
Anchor strips (for cabinet backs less than 12.7 mm [1/2"] thick)
Min. 12.7 mm [1/2"] thick lumber or panel product, min. 63.5 mm
[2-1/2"] width; securely attached to cabinet body members on the
wall side of the cabinet back - top and bottom for wall hung cabinets,
top only for floor standing cabinets.
Required
Required
Not required
145
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
The use of steel European assembly screws is acceptable
for all grades of work. The illustrated screw is to be used no
more than 37 mm from each end, with subsequent screws
spaced no more than 128 mm on center. Glue is not required
with this system. Screw heads and/or plastic trim caps may
not be visible on exposed surfaces in Premium & Custom
Grade. Trim caps may be visible on exposed surfaces in
Economy Grade, and on semi-exposed surfaces in any Grade.
5 mm dia.
8 mm dia.
50 mm
Concealed interlocking
mechanical fasteners are
acceptable for any grade of
work when installed
Stop Dado* following manufacturers
directions.
400
Spline or Biscuit
Doweled
Thru Dado
Same finish
as cabinet
interior,
installed
with screws
Lock Miter
Back
application
optional
90 degree joint
Fastening
thru back
and cleat
into wall
Fastening
thru back
and cleat
into wall
Side bound
Special application Internal Anchor Strip
Recessed Back
Full Bound Back
NOTE ABOUT SCREWS: The use of "drywall" screws is not permitted. Use heavy shank steel screws.
Inset Back
with Optional
Inset Hanging
cleat attached
Vertical Section
Special application
External Hanging Cleat
Back, edge banded

to match
cabinet exterior
Cabinet Side
Horizontal Section
Semi-exposed
Plant-on Back
One full
piece required
to eliminate
the joint line
Horizontal Section
Exposed
Plant-on Back
* Stop dado not required when concealed behind face frames or similar covers at point
of connection.
NOTE: When not in violation of design, leading edges of intersecting members may be set
back not to exceed 3.2mm [1/8"] provided setback is consistent. Joints in backs must
occur at divisions or fixed shelves for fastening; or be splined or otherwise reinforced or
supported. See Section 1700 for mounting and hanging suggestions.
Case Joinery - Figure 400-21
146
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-13
Joinery of Face Frames and Trims
AWMAC woodworkers will supply their choice from the alternatives. Fillers are placed where installation conditions make
their use appropriate. Style, width, and method of installation are at the option of the woodwork manufacturer. A check indicates
permitted for the Grade specified.
Joinery table for face frames and trims
Premium
Custom
Economy
Face frame stile and rail assembly

Glued mortise and tenon or concealed pocket
screw
Dowel or biscuit joints, glued under pressure
Butt joint, glued and toe nailed
Attachment of face frame to body members

Pressure glued (no nails or other visible fasteners)
Glue and finish nail
Nailed
400
NOTE: Site applied mouldings are governed by Section 300 and Section 1700. The following applies to mouldings
contained wholly within an individual panel.
Plant fastened; spot
Plant fastened; spot
Shipped loosed for
Applied mouldings
glued, fine finish
glued, fine finish
field fitting
nailed and set
nailed and set
Note: Filling nail holes is done during finishing. When factory finishing is not specified and/or part of the
manufacturer's contract, the responsibility for filling and smoothing of fill material lies with the finishing contractor. If
panel products are used for face frames, door hinges shall be selected to avoid screwing only into panel product edges.
400A-T-14
Smoothness of Exposed Surfaces (minimum requirements)
Smoothness Table
Premium
Transparent
Opaque
Custom
Transparent
Opaque
Eased with fine abrasive
Eased with fine abrasive
Top flat surfaces
150 grit
120 grit
Moulded surfaces
120 grit
minimum 20 KCPI
Shaped surfaces
120 grit
minimum 20 KCPI
Sharp edges (Arris)
Economy
Transparent
Opaque
Mill option
100 grit or 15 KCPI

120 grit
100 grit
Not to exceed
Not to exceed
Sanding cross scratches None allowed
None allowed
6.4 mm [.25"]
6.4 mm [.25"]
NOTE: No tearouts, knife nicks, or hit-or-miss finish allowed. No knife marks allowed where sanding is required.
Surface variations as a result of multiple tool passes treated as turned surfaces above. Glue and filler, if used, must be
inconspicuous and sanded as smoothly as the surrounding surface. Sanding before final stain and/or finish should be a
consistent grit and scratch pattern, as it influences blend of color and sheen between components. Top Flat Surfaces are
those which which can be sanded with a drum or wide belt sander. Turnings are customarily sanded on the lathe, and will
exhibit cross scratches.
Before finishing, all exposed portions of architectural woodwork shall have handling marks or effects of exposure to
humidity or moisture removed by a thorough uniform final sanding. The sanded surface shall then be cleaned and dust
free, prior to proceeding with the first step in the finishing process. Veneer sand-through, with veneer sanded to the point
where cross banding or core is visible, and/or core telegraphing (variation from a true plane in excess of 0.25 mm
[0.010"] in any 76 mm [3"] span) is not allowed in any Grade.
Turned surfaces
147
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-T-15
Selection for Grain and Color
Plant Assemblies
For Transparent finish, adjacent members shall
Premium Grade be well matched for grain and color.
Custom Grade be compatible for color.
Economy Grade not be selected.
Visible finger joints not permitted in Premium and Custom
Grades. No selection for grain or color is required for Opaque
finish in any Grade.
Field Assemblies
Selection of adjacent members for compatibility is the responsibility of the installation contractor.
400
Compliance Criteria
400A-C-1
Fitting of Exposed Cabinet Doors, Drawers and Removable Panels
Target Fitting Tolerances, i.e., door to door; door to
drawer; drawer to drawer
Premium
Custom
Economy
3.2 mm [1/8"]
0.8 mm [1/32"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
2.4 mm [3/32"]
Maximum variation in vertical and horizontal alignment

between adjacent door and drawer edges, in the normal closed
position at rest
0.8 mm [1/32"]
0.8 mm [1/32"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
Maximum variation in flushness of adjacent door and drawer

faces
0.8 mm [1/32"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
Gap between doors, drawers, panels, and frames
Note: Tolerances are subject to component size, hardware choices, allowable warp, installation variations, etc. The
maximum deviations listed are subject to the above conditions.
Alignment
Gap
Flushness
Fitting Tests - Figure 400-22
148
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
400A-C-2
Flatness of Cabinet Doors and Exposed Removable Panels (Maximum Deviation)
Flatness Tolerances
Premium
Measured diagonally after installation is completed, per 30 cm [lineal

foot] (or portion thereof) of diagonal measurement, the following
0.7 mm [.027"]
maximum deviation from flat
Custom
Economy
0.9 mm [.036"]
1.3 mm [.050"]
EXAMPLE: When the diagonal measurement of the illustrated panel is 120 cm, the maximum distance between the string
and the face of the panel will be about 3.6 mm [9/64"] in Custom Grade 4 times 0.9 mm = 3.6 mm [0.142"]
400
Flatness
Flatness Test - Figure 400-23
400A-C-3
Flushness Between Exposed Factory Assembled Joints (Maximum Variation)
Flushness Tolerance
Measured with a feeler gauge
Premium
Custom
Economy
.03 mm [.001"] .13 mm [.005"] .25 mm [.010"]
Test Locations
149
Section 400
Wood Cabinets
Flushness Tests - Figure 400-24
400A-C-4
Gap Tolerances
The following table is used to test compliance with the gap tolerances allowed.
Gap Tolerances
Premium
Custom
Economy
.4 mm [1/64"]
.8 mm [1/32"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
76 mm [3"]
127 mm [5"]
203 mm [8"]
Maximum gap between fixed Semi-exposed components
.8 mm [1/32"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
Maximum length of gap in fixed Semi-exposed components
152 mm [6"]
203 mm [8"]
305 mm [12"]
Maximum gap between fixed Exposed components

Maximum length of gap in fixed Exposed components
Maximum gap between each end of adjustable shelf and case side
400
1.6 mm [1/16"] 1.6 mm [1/16"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
NOTE: Gaps at adjustable shelf ends may be greater if required by selected shelf hardware or material thickness
considerations. No gap permitted in joints of stile and rail work or joints of face frame stiles and rails. No gap may occur
within 1219 mm [48"] of another gap (except adjustable shelf ends.)
400A-C-5
Tests for Smoothness of Exposed Surfaces
KCPI (Knife Cuts Per Inch) can be determined by holding the surfaced board at an angle to a strong light source and counting
the visible ridges per inch, usually perpendicular to the profile.
SANDING can best be checked by sanding a sample piece of the same species with the required grit of abrasive. Observation
with a hand lens of the prepared sample and the material in question will offer a comparison of the scratch marks of the abrasive
grit. Reasonable assessment of the performance of the finished product will be weighed against absolute compliance with the
standard.
400A-C-6
Edgebanding Performance
Edgebanding Tolerances
Flushness with adjacent surfaces (maximum variation)
Premium
Custom
Economy
.03 mm [.001"] .13 mm [.005"] .25 mm [.010"]
All edgebanding must be free of delamination, bubbles, and all adhesive residue
Test Locations
Veneer Edgeband
Solid Edgeband
Edgeband Performance - Figure 400-25
150
Section 400
Test Criteria
400B-T-1
Materials: High Pressure Decorative Laminate
In the absence of specifications, the following standards will apply. In the absence of specifications, the following standards will
apply. Where more than one method or material is listed, AWI/AWMAC woodworkers will supply their choice from the alternatives. In the absence of a specified laminate pattern and/or color, woodworkers will furnish base-priced (excluding upcharged)
decorative laminates and melamine panels from manufacturers standard selections, maximum of four different colors and/or
patterns per project, limited to one per elevation. When specified, woodworkers will furnish multiple patterns, color and/or
specialty materials, adjusting cost and delivery time. A check indicates permitted for the Grade specified.
Laminate Materials
Premium
Custom
Economy
Exposed surfaces
High-pressure laminate, nominal 0.7 mm [.028"] thick
(core: particleboard or MDF)
Thermoset decorative overlay (color and pattern selections limited;
core: particleboard or MDF)
400
Blending of laminate across multiple cabinet faces in one elevation (grained/patterned decorative laminate)
Continuous pattern (not necessarily balance and/or center matched),
material permitting
No match required
Direction and matching of wood grain or pattern on individual cabinet

Continuous vertical figure across doors and drawer fronts and
selection for pleasing blend of figure and color per elevation
Continuous vertical figure across doors of individual cabinet; drawer
fronts may be horizontal or vertical figure without sequence
(not required from cabinet to cabinet)
No match required
Semi-exposed parts (not including drawer bodies and backs of flush doors)
High-pressure laminate (mill option color), nominal
0.7 mm [.028"] thick
Thermoset decorative overlay, solid color
or nominal 0.5 mm [.020"] Cabinet liner on particleboard core
Particleboard (sealed or painted),
or paper impregnated decorative overlay
Concealed parts
Mill option
Flush cabinet door limits - 19 mm [3/4"] medium density particleboard or medium density fiberboard core up to 762 mm
[30"] width by 2032 mm [80"] height, with like materials and thicknesses both faces. Veneer core doors will not be
151
Section 400
Premium Grade
Laminate Cabinets
Custom Grade
400B-T-2
Balanced Construction for Cabinet Components
Economy Grade
Direction and matching - Figure 400-26
HPDL cabinet fabrication shall incorporate balanced construction for unrestrained components, such as cabinet doors and adjustable shelves. Experience shows that unbalanced laminations have the tendency to warp.
400
Just as balance is defined for veneered work as an odd number of plys, so balanced construction in HPDL work shall contain
an odd number of layers. The substrate forms the core for the inner layer. On each side of the core, or substrate, the fabricator
shall apply the same material in the same machine direction. All HPDL has a machine direction, which can be determined by
observing the scuff marks on the back of the laminate sheet.
Restrained components, such as cabinet sides (gables), may be fabricated with HPDL on one side of the substrate and a different
material (cabinet liner or thermoset decorative overlay, for example) on the other side. The risk of warp for these components
is very low.
Lamination Over Existing Overlays
The application of any thickness of HPDL over the top of existing HPDL is not permitted, even if the fabricator attempts to apply the HPDL to both sides of the existing lamination. Experience shows that the adhesion of the new laminate to the existing
surface is very low, often resulting in delamination and failure of the glue line.
Likewise, the application of HPDL over existing thermoset decorative overlay (melamine) is strongly discouraged. Some fabricators report success by agressively sanding the melamine surface, followed by applying sufficient contact adhesive and adequate
pressure. Delamination is a defect. The risk of delamination is high. Specify or use this procedure with care.
152
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
400B-T-3
Edge Treatment of Exposed and Semi-exposed Components
In the absence of specifications, the following standards will apply. Where more than one method or material is listed for a
Grade, manufacturers will supply their choice from the alternatives.
Visible edges of panel products shall be treated by applying edge bandings using automatic edgebander or glue and
pressure or, in the case of Economy Grade, fillers as indicated below. In cases where raw MDF is intended to have a clear
or opaque finish, no edge banding is required. Body members or shelves in semi-exposed conditions shall have an
edgeband that matches the body member or shelf. Back edges and ends of adjustable shelves within cases are not
considered to be visible. Edges may be banded before or after (industry standard) face, at manufacturer's option.
Edgebanding in excess of this standard must be specified. PVC edge banding varies between 0.5 mm and 5 mm and
should be evaluated and specified or approved by the design professional as desired. The following standards apply to
PVC or self-edged cabinet parts. Special design considerations may require special solutions by the woodworker.
Thickness dimension tolerance is 0.05 mm [0.002"]. Close Grain is defined in the Glossary in the Appendix.
Premium Grade
Edge Material and
Component
Application
Transparent
Opaque
Material
Same Species and Cut as Face
Body Members,
Face Frames
Nominal Thickness
.5 mm [.020"]
Material
Exposed Shelves
Nominal Thickness
.5 mm [.020"]
Material
Nominal Thickness
.5 mm [.020"]
Same Species and Cut as Member
Material
Doors and
Face
Drawer Fronts (1)
Nominal Thickness
.5 mm [.020"]
Component
Body Members,
Face Frames
Exposed Shelves
Doors and
Drawer Fronts (2)
Component
Body Members,
Face Frames
Exposed Shelves
Edge Material and

Application
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Edge Material and

Application
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Material
Nominal Thickness
Custom Grade
Transparent
Same Species as Face
.5 mm
.5 mm
.5 mm
Same Species as Member Face
.5 mm
Opaque
[ .0 2 0 " ]
[ .0 2 0 " ]
[ .0 2 0 " ]
[ .0 2 0 " ]
Economy Grade
Transparent
Compatible Species
.5 mm [.020"]
Compatible Species
.5 mm [.020"]
.5 mm [.020"]
Compatible Species
.5 mm [.020"]
Opaque
Filled and Sanded

Filled and Sanded
Filled and Sanded
Doors and
Filled and Sanded
Drawer Fronts (3)
NOTES:
(1) Premium Grade - All edges must be banded. (Edges showing more than 6.4 mm [1/4"] on face will be mitered.)
(2) Custom Grade - All edges must be banded. (This was an additional requirement of the 6th edition.)
(3) Economy Grade - All edges must be banded, where banding is required.
153
400
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
Unless specified, sequence of lamination determined by woodworker
400
Hot melt applied HPDL edge banding shall be primed before application for proper adhesion
unless the hot melt adhesive used has been specially formulated for the application of HPDL
without requiring pre-application of a primer.
NOTE: Edgebands, to the extent of standard
length materials, run the full length of a
single vertical or horizonal member without
a joint or splice. Edges of the band are
trimmed flush with, and align with, the plane
of the case body to which they are applied.
Finishing all front edges of cases with a
single piece of laminate, without joints at
the corners, is not standard practice, and
must be specified if desired.
NOTE: For increased durability either edgeband or chamfer the

lower edge of a die wall toe kick. Must be specified. Otherwise
will be treated as a concealed surface.
Edge Treatment - Figure 400-27
154
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
400B-T-4
Flush Cabinet Doors and Drawer Fronts
Grade, manufacturers will supply their choice from the alternatives. Laminate shall be applied to both faces in the same machine
direction. A check indicates permitted for the Grade specified.
Premium
Custom
Economy
HPDL or Thermoset Decorative Overlay Finish
Edgebanded laminate, same pattern, color and thickness both face
and back (core: particleboard or medium density fiberboard [MDF],
veneer core not permitted for doors)

Edgebanded laminate, with laminate of same nominal thickness on
back (core: particleboard or medium density fiberboard [MDF],
veneer core not recommended)

Edgebanded thermoset decorative overlay both face and back,
(core: particleboard or medium density fiberboard [MDF],
veneer core not recommended)

Note: Laminate face side and thermoset decorative overlay back side not permitted on doors in any grade of work.
Flush cabinet door limits - 19 mm [3/4"] medium density particleboard or medium density fiberboard core up to 762 mm
[30"] width by 2032 mm [80"] height, with like materials and thicknesses both faces. Veneer core doors will not be
400B-T-5
Drawer Sides and Backs
woodworkers will supply their choice from the alternatives. Premanufactured drawer systems, when approved or specified,
will be assumed to meet the Grade of Work for which the approval was granted or the specification written. A check indicates
permitted for the Grade specified.
Drawer Side Materials
Premium
Custom
Economy
Single species solid lumber with a Section 100-G-1 hardness rating
of Medium or better (minimum 12.7 mm [1/2"] finished thickness)

7 ply all hardwood veneer core plywood, no voids
(minimum 12.7 mm [1/2"] thickness); No edge band required.

High pressure decorative laminate (HPDL) on 7 ply veneer core
substrate (minimum 12.7 mm [1/2"] thickness)

Edgebanded HPDL or thermoset decorative overlay on particleboard
core (minimum 12.7 mm [1/2"] thickness)

Medium density particleboard or medium density fiberboard
(minimum 9.5 mm [3/8"] thickness)

Note: Premanufactured drawer systems are available from many woodwork manufacturers and must be evaluated and
specified or approved by the design professional when desired.
Caution
Special consideration should be given to raw wood parts on high pressure decorative laminate-clad (HPDL) cabinets such as
wood pulls, wood trims, applied mouldings, banded doors, drawer bodies, wood cabinet interiors. Specifications regarding the
responsibility for finishing (if any) shall be clarified by the design professional. When solid lumber or veneer core plywood
drawer bodies are furnished in HPDL cabinets, the responsibility for finishing the drawer bodies rests with the fabricator,
155
400
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
400B-T-6
Drawer Bottoms (6.4 mm [1/4"] Minimum Nominal Thickness)
Grade, manufacturers will supply their choice from the alternatives. A check indicates permitted for the Grade specified.
Drawer Bottom Materials
Premium
Custom
Economy
Veneer core panel product, "B" face hardwood veneer
Thermoset decorative overlay panel product
Hardboard (smooth side visible inside)
Separate Drawer Front 19 mm

[3/4"] min.
Body 12.7 mm [1/2"] min.
Body 12.7 mm [1/2"] min.

400
Bottom 6 mm [1/4"] min. captured

4 sides
Detail when bottom-mount hardware

is specified or approved by design professional
Bottom 12.7 mm [1/2"] min.
9 mm [3/8"] standing shoulder

Section at Drawer
Drawer Section - Figure 400-28
156
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
400B-T-7
Drawer Construction Techniques/Supports
Construction Technique
Premium
Custom
Economy
Miterfolded from a single panel in one machining process
Multiple dovetail (all corners) or French dovetail front/dadoed back,

Doweled, glued under pressure (min. 32 mm dowel spacing to
102 mm [4"] high, 64 mm dowel spacing above 102 mm [4"])

Square Shoulder, nailed or stapled
Bottoms shall be set into sides, back and front, 6.4 mm [1/4"] deep
groove with minimum 9 mm [3/8"] standing shoulder
Bottoms shall be set into sides and front, 6.4mm [1/4"] deep groove
with minimum 9 mm [3/8"] standing shoulder
Bottom installation technique mill option

Hardware (Static Load)
Premium
Custom
Economy
Plastic roller or friction drawer glides/guides
Wood drawer guides with tip rail

No tip-down stops required

Mechanical stops prevent impact on the drawer front.
400
Designated file drawers shall have a minimum inside clear height of

267mm [10-1/2"] and have a follower mechanism or be of a size to
allow the use of hanging folders on a system stand or integral rails.

Note: Premanufactured drawer systems, including bottom-mounted and epoxy-coated slides, are available from many
woodwork manufacturers and must be evaluated and specified or approved by the design professional when desired.
Drawers shall operate smoothly, properly fitted to the cabinet without excessive play. All drawers shall fill the cabinet
depth, less a maximum of 5 mm [2"], and from top to bottom to the greatest extent practical.
157
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
Front
Front
Front
Front
Dovetail
Dowel
Premium
Custom
Economy
Premium
Custom
Economy
Premium
Custom
Economy
Veneer Core
Combo. Core
Particle Core
Fiber Core
Permitted in
Grade
400
Front
Front
Notes:
and
Recommended
Material
Choices 3
Solid Lumber
French Dovetail Lock Shoulder Square Shoulder

Premium
Custom
Economy
Economy
Miterfold
Premium
Custom
Economy
All four sides and
the bottom are
machined from
one piece
NOTES: In the absence of specifications, the following standards will apply. Where more than one method or material
is listed, AWI/AWMAC woodworkers will supply their choice from the alternatives.
1 - The European system assembly screw or dowel screw with matching caps is permitted in this configuration
when material is 19mm [3/4"] or thicker.
2 - Fully captured bottoms are not feasible when French Dovetail joinery is employed.
3 - While virtually all materials can be painted, stained, finished, or clad with veneers or overlays, solid lumber is
usually selected for species and then painted, stained and/or finished. Panel products may also be painted, stained,
and/or finished in their raw state as well as veneered or clad with another product. Thermoset Decorative Overlays
are generally limited to particle core panel products.
400B-T-8
Concealed 35 mm cup Hinge Installation Requirements
Drawer Joinery - Figure 400-29
Concealed Hinges Styles - Figure 400-30

When 35 mm cup hinges are used, plastic insertion dowels to receive the screws of the hinge and 5 mm Euroscrews to attach
the baseplate are required. The attachment of hinge bodies to particleboard or fiberboard doors with wood screws in the absence
of the plastic insertion dowels is not acceptable in Premium or Custom Grade. Manufacturers may use other solutions to assure
long-term functionality, as agreed between buyer and seller. At the time of this printing, only hinges showing a small knuckle
meet BHMA Grade 1, and no fully concealed 35 mm cup is available tested to BHMA Grade 1
158
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
400B-T-9
Adjustable Shelf Techniques/Supports
Support, Materials, and Gap Tolerance
Premium
Custom
Economy
Adjustable shelf metal shelf standards (recessed flush)
Adjustable shelf multiple holes (min. 5 mm diameter, dual pins)
Adjustable shelf metal shelf standards (surface mounted)
Adjustable shelf multiple holes (min. 5 mm diameter, single pin)
Adjustable shelf mill Option supports
Maximum gap between each end of shelf and case side or standard
1.6 mm [1/16"] 1.6 mm [1/16"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
Center line of holes or standards shall be a min. of 24.5 mm [1"] and a max. of 76 mm [3"] from the front and back edge
of the depth of shelf to be supported, with a spread of no less than 60% of the shelf depth in any case.
25 mm [1"]
25 mm [1"]
19 mm [3/4"]
Unsupported fixed shelf and/or cabinet bottom 1067 mm [42"] to
particleboard or particleboard or particleboard or
1220 mm [48"] to support 40 lb. total distributed load
better
better
better
by cleat at back edge or securely fastened thru back
by center divider or other intermediate support
Note: A variety of engineered shelf supports are available from member manufacturers and should be evaluated and
specified or approved by the design professional when desired. Gaps at adjustable shelf ends shall be greater when
required by design, selected shelf hardware, or shelf material thickness considerations. Unsupported shelves or cabinet
bottoms in excess of 1220 mm [48"] not permitted in any Grade.
Multiple
Holes
Recessed
Standards
Surface
Standards
Adjustable Shelves - Figure 400-31
159
400
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
400B-T-10
Joinery of Case Body Members
Joinery Table
Premium
Custom
Economy
Tops, exposed ends and bottoms (finished ends on casework shall be integral, not applied secondarily)
Stop dado*, glued with pressure, and either nailed, stapled or
screwed (fasteners will not be visible on exposed parts)
Doweled, glued with pressure; approx. 1 per 75 mm of joint [4/foot]
European assembly screws (37 mm from end, 128 mm on center,

fasteners will not be visible on exposed parts)
Spline or biscuit, glued with pressure (approx. 1 per 100 mm of joint)
400
Through dado, glued with pressure; or exposed European assembly

screws with trim caps
Exposed end corner details and face frame attachment

Mitered joint: lock miter or spline or biscuit, glued under pressure
(no visible fasteners)
Non-mitered joints, i.e. 90 degree applications: butt joint glued under
pressure (no visible fasteners)
Butt joint, glued and finish nailed
Butt joint, finish nailed
Cabinet backs - Wall hung

In all Grades, wall hung cabinet backs must not be relied upon to support the full weight of the cabinet and its anticipated
load for hanging/mounting purposes. Hanging/mounting mechanisms should transfer load to case body member(s).
Captured in grooves on cabinet sides and bottom; securely fastened
Side bound, captured in groove or rabbetts; securely fastened

Edge of back
[1/2"] or thicker, so attached.
finished ends
Mill option, but backs are required when back is exposed to view
after installation and for all wall cabinets in any Grade of Work.
Edge of back
not exposed on
finished ends
Edge of back
exposed on
finished ends
Cabinet backs - Floor standing

Side bound, captured in grooves; securely fastened to top and bottom
Side bound, placed in rabbets; securely fastened in rabbets

Edge of back
[1/2"] or thicker, so attached. (See illustrations following this table.)
finished ends
Edge of back
not exposed on
finished ends
Edge of back
exposed on
finished ends
Mill option, back required when specified or when exposed to view
Anchor strips (for cabinet backs less than 12.7 mm [1/2"] thick)
Min. 12.7 mm [1/2"] thick lumber or panel product, min. 63.5 mm
[2-1/2"] width; securely attached to cabinet body members on the
wall side of the cabinet back - top and bottom for wall hung cabinets,
top only for floor standing cabinets.
160
Required
Required
Not required
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
The use of steel European assembly screws is acceptable

for all grades of work. The illustrated screw is to be used no
more than 37 mm from each end, with subsequent screws
spaced no more than 128 mm on center. Glue is not required
with this system. Screw heads and/or plastic trim caps may
not be visible on exposed surfaces in Premium & Custom
Grade. Trim caps may be visible on exposed surfaces in
Economy Grade, and on semi-exposed surfaces in any Grade.
5 mm dia.
8 mm dia.
50 mm
Spline or Biscuit
Doweled
Thru Dado
Same finish
as cabinet
interior,
installed
with screws
Concealed interlocking
mechanical fasteners are
acceptable for any grade of
work when installed
Stop Dado* following manufacturers
directions.
Lock Miter
Back
application
optional
90 degree joint
Fastening
thru back
and cleat
into wall
Fastening
thru back
and cleat
into wall
Side bound
Special application Internal Anchor Strip
Recessed Back
Full Bound Back
NOTE ABOUT SCREWS: The use of "drywall" screws is not permitted. Use heavy shank steel screws.
Back, edge banded

to match
cabinet exterior
Inset Back
with Optional
Inset Hanging
cleat attached
Vertical Section
Special application
External Hanging Cleat
Cabinet Side
Horizontal Section
Semi-exposed
Plant-on Back
One full
piece required
to eliminate
the joint line
Horizontal Section
Exposed
Plant-on Back
* Stop dado not required when concealed behind face frames or similar covers at point
of connection.
NOTE: When not in violation of design, leading edges of intersecting members may be set
back not to exceed 3.2mm [1/8"] provided setback is consistent. Joints in backs must
occur at divisions or fixed shelves for fastening; or be splined or otherwise reinforced or
supported. See Section 1700 for mounting and hanging suggestions.
Case Joinery - Figure 400-32

161
400
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
Compliance Criteria
400B-C-1
Fitting of Exposed Casework Doors, Drawers and Removable Panels
Target Fitting Tolerances
Gap between doors, drawers, panels, and frames
Door to door; door to drawer; drawer to drawer
400
Premium
Custom
Economy
3.2 mm [1/8"]
0.8 mm [1/32"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
2.4 mm [3/32"]
Maximum variation in vertical and horizontal alignment

between adjacent door and drawer edges, in the normal
0.8 mm [1/32"]
0.8 mm [1/32"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
closed position at rest
Maximum variation in flushness of adjacent door and
drawer faces
0.8 mm [1/32"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
Note: Tolerances are subject to component size, hardware choices, allowable warp, installation variations, etc. The
maximum deviations listed are subject to the above conditions.
Alignment
Gap
Flushness
400B-C-2
Flatness of Exposed Case Doors (Maximum Deviation)
Flatness
162
Fitting Tests - Figure 400-33
Flatness Test - Figure 400-34
Section 400
Laminate Cabinets
400B-C-3
Flushness Between Exposed Factory Assembled Joints (Maximum Variation)
Premium
Custom
Economy
.13 mm [.005"] .25 mm [.010"] .38 mm [.015"]
Test Locations
400B-C-4
Gap Tolerances
NOTE: Maximum gap between exposed components shall be tested at points designed to join; where members contact or touch.
The following table is used to test compliance with the gap tolerances allowed.
Gap Tolerances
Premium
Custom
Economy
.4 mm [1/64"]
.8 mm [1/32"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
76 mm [3"]
127 mm [5"]
203 mm [8"]
Maximum gap between fixed Semi-exposed components
.8 mm [1/32"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
Maximum length of gap in fixed Semi-exposed components
152 mm [6"]
203 mm [8"]
305 mm [12"]
Maximum gap between fixed Exposed components

Maximum length of gap in fixed Exposed components
Maximum gap between each end of adjustable shelf and case side
1.6 mm [1/16"] 1.6 mm [1/16"]
3.2 mm [1/8"]
NOTE: Gaps at adjustable shelf ends may be greater if required by selected shelf hardware or material thickness
considerations. No gap permitted in joints of stile and rail work or joints of face frame stiles and rails. No gap may occur
within 1219 mm [48"] of another gap (except adjustable shelf ends.)
400B-C-5
Edge/Joint Quality
Premium
Custom
Economy
All adhesive residue shall be removed from all Exposed and Semi-exposed surfaces in all Grades.
All laminate and PVC edges shall be
machined flush, filed, sanded, or buffed
to remove machine marks and eased
(sharp corner removed). Cleanup at
easing shall be such that no overlap of
the member eased is visible. Chipout of
the laminate shall be invisible when
viewed at 610 mm [24"].
Removal of color/pattern of face
material due to overmachining limited
to 1.6 mm [1/16"] x 38.1 mm [1-1/2"]
and shall not occur within 1829 mm
[72"] of a similar occurrence.

machined flush and eased (sharp corner
removed). Cleanup at easing may show
a maximum visible overlap of no more
than .13 mm [.005"] for a length of no
more than 25.4 mm [1"] in any 610 mm
[24"] run. Chipout of the laminate shall
be invisible when viewed at 1219 mm
[48"].
material due to over-machining limited
to 1.6 mm [1/16"] x 76 mm [3"] and
shall not occur within 1524 mm [60"]
of a similar occurrence.

eased (sharp corner removed). Cleanup
at easing may show a maximum visible
overlap of no more than .13 mm [.005"]
for a length of no more than 50.8 mm
[2"] in any 1219 mm [48"] run. Chipout
of the laminate shall be invisible when
viewed at 1829 mm [72"].
material due to over-machining limited
to 2.4 mm [3/32"] x 102 mm [4"] and
shall not occur within 1219 mm [48"]
163
400
Section 400
Overlap and Chipout test locations
400
Edge/Joint Quality - Figure 400-36
400B-C-6
Edgebanding Performance
Edgebanding Tolerances
Flushness with adjacent surfaces (maximum variation)
Premium
Custom
Economy
.03 mm [.001"] .13 mm [.005"] .25 mm [.010"]
All edgebanding must be free of delamination, bubbles, and all adhesive residue
Test Locations
HPDL or PVC
Edgeband
Solid Lumber or
Solid Surf.
Edgeband
Edgeband Performance - Figure 400-37
164
Section 400
400
165
Section 400
Countertops
General Criteria
400C-G-1
Scope
Includes
This section will cover the following countertops and their
fabrication:
A. Panel Product Tops - This type of top consists of wood
veneer over a stable substrate, veneer edge banded or with an
applied decorative edge of another material as specified.
Miter Fold
Miter Folded HPDL - Figure 400-40

C. Post-formed High Pressure Decorative Laminated Tops
- This type of top consists of plastic laminate formed with heat
and pressure over a stable substrate and must be specified.
400
Panel Product - Figure 400-38

B. High Pressure Decorative Laminate (HPDL) Tops - This
type of top consists of plastic laminate over a stable substrate,
self edge banded or with an applied decorative edge of another
material as specified.
Post formed with coved

integral backsplash
Self Edge
Self-edged HPDL - Figure 400-39
166
Post-formed - Figure 400-41
Section 400
Countertops
D. Combination Material Tops - This type of top may consist
of a mixture of materials, such as wood, high pressure decorative laminate, inlays, etc.
F. Solid Laminated Tops - This type of top consists of narrow

strips of wood, face glued together, similar to butcher block
but custom manufactured to specifications.
Optional Alignment
Spline or Biscuit
Medium Density
Fiberboard or
Particleboard Core
400
Combination - Figure 400-42
E. Solid Surfacing Materials - This type of top requires special
fabrication techniques, depending upon the composition of the
product. Many woodworkers fabricate and install the products.
Must be specified by brand name and manufacturer. Manufacturing of these tops is not governed by these Standards.
Solid Laminated - Figure 400-44

G. Solid Wood Tops - This type of top consists of boards
edge glued to a desired width. In this kind of top there is no
assurance of matching grain or color at the edges or individual
ends of the boards.
Note: They must be fabricated and installed according to the manufacturers specifications.
Solid Wood - Figure 400-45
Solid Surface - Figure 400-43
H. Epoxy Resin Laboratory Tops and Splashes - Specially

formulated resin tops designed to resist harsh chemicals. Must
be specified by brand name and manufacturer. Manufacturing
of these tops is not governed by these Standards.
Note: They must be fabricated and installed according to the manufacturers specifications.
167
Section 400
General Note: If the casework and the countertop

are not made by the same company, it is the responsibility of
the owners representative to communicate finished heights,
depths, and reveals. Any build-up required under the counter
top is the responsibility of the counter top fabricator.
For base cabinets with countertops, the reveal between the
lower edge of the top and the upper edge of the adjacent door
or drawer front shall be consistent in light of the design sthetic
within a tolerance of 1.5 mm [1/16"] in all Grades of Work.
400
168
Section 400
400C-G-2
General Guidelines for Fabrication and Installation for HPDL
Sections 400C-G-2 and 400C-G-3 are data taken in part from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), and
are used with permission.
When making any cutout (as for electrical receptacles, ranges, sinks, grills, windows, chopping blocks, L-shaped counter tops,
and so forth) all inside corners should be smoothly rounded using a minimum comer radius of 1/8" [3 mm] A router is an ideal
tool for making cutouts. (1)
When removing large areas from a sheet of laminate (e.g., a sink cutout), the connecting strips between the remaining areas
should be left as wide as possible. (2)
Factory-trimmed sheet edges and saw-cut edges should be routed or filed. Original edges on factory-cut laminates are not finished edges since oversized laminates are supplied to allow for proper fabrication.
All chips, saw marks, and hairline cracks should be removed from cuts by filing, sanding, or routing.
Backsplash seam areas on countertops which are exposed to spilled water or other fluids should be sealed with caulking to
ensure a tight seal.
When laminate is bonded to a substrate, precaution should be taken to prevent warping of the assembly. Laminates used on
shelves or in long unsupported spans should make use of a backer. A thick backer (approximately the same thickness as the face
sheet) can provide more stability than a thin backer. Thicker laminates can offer better dimensional stability and resistance to
stress (corner) cracking. Paint, varnish, vinyl film, and fiber backers will not balance HPDL.
Before using nails or screws, oversized holes should be drilled through the laminate with a sharp drill bit.
3
1
1 Radius these corners

2 Make this area as wide as possible; avoid seams here
3 Seam this area as broken lines indicate (choose one)
or radius if one-piece laminate top. Avoid edgeband
across countertop joints.
4 Support long spans well
Laminate Cut-outs - Figure 400-46
169
400
Section 400
400C-G-3
Typical Problems - Causes and Prevention
Some of the problems that may arise after laminates have been
fabricated and installed are the following:
Cracking of the laminate at corners and around cutouts may
be caused by improper conditioning, improper bonding and,
sometimes, poor planning, or any combination of these reasons.
Cracking may be caused by shrinkage; conditioning helps to prevent it. Rough edges, inside corners that have not been rounded,
binding and/or forced fits can contribute to cracking.
Countertops
Separation of the laminate from the substrate may generally
be caused by a poor adhesive bond. The bonding procedure
should be reviewed with close attention to uniform glue line,
uniform pressure and cleanliness of mating surfaces. If the
edges fail to bond, extra adhesive may be applied and the
product reclamped. Contact adhesives can often be reactivated
by heat and rebonded by adequate pressure if the glue line is
not starved.
NOTE: Some cleaning agents, excess heat, and moisture can
contribute to bond failure at joints and edges.
Laminate
Substrate
400
Backer
Insufficient Adhesive Coverage
or Insufficient Pressure, Or Both
Separation from Substrate - Figure 400-48
Blistering or bubbling of the laminate surface away from the
substrate can be caused by excessive heat, starved glue line,
improper conditioning, and inadequate pressure or drying. When
contact adhesive is used, the condition can sometimes be corrected by applying heat and pressure. But uniform glue lines
and pressure over clean conditioned laminates and substrate
might have prevented the problem.
Cracking Cutouts - Figure 400-47
If the seams are properly placed in the layout of the laminate,
stresses can be minimized.
Blistering or Bubbling - Figure 400-49
170
Section 400
Countertops
The forming of a blister or bubble over a small area, often accompanied by a darkening of the laminate can be caused by
continual exposure to a source of heat. Electrical appliances
which produce heat and light bulbs should not be placed in
contact with or close proximity to laminate surfaces.
Repeated heating may cause the laminate and adhesive to react
and finally deteriorate after continual exposure to temperatures
above 66 C [150 F].
Long, unsupported spans are generally avoided. Most manufacturers limit spans to between 760 to 915 mm [30 to 36"] before
the addition of a support of some type. A wide variety of engineering solutions are available. Consult your AWI/AWMAC
woodworker during the design phase of the project.
Warping of the assembly may be generally caused by unbalanced construction or unbalanced glue lines. Proper HPDL
backer sheets should be chosen and aligned so that their grain
direction is parallel to that of the face laminate. Proper gluing
is also important. If the substrate is secured to a framework,
the framework should be designed to hold the assembly to a
flat plane. Conditioning is also helpful.
400
Exposure to Heat Source - Figure 400-50

Cracking of the laminate in the center of the sheet may be caused
by flexing of the substrate when it covers a wide span or by
spot gluing. Wide spans call for sturdy framework, and special
attention should be given to the uniformity of glue lines and
gluing pressures. Also, care should be taken to avoid trapping
foreign objects between the laminate and the substrate.
Laminate Warping - Figure 400-52
Design professional works

with fabricator to specify
appropriate support.
Laminate Cracking - Figure 400-51
171
Section 400
Countertops
Technical Criteria
400C-T-1
Material Grades and Size Requirements
Type
Solid wood
Solid laminated
Panel products
HPDL Overlay (see Sect. 200)
Width and Match
Solid wood - Max. width of
individual boards in glue-up:
Hardwood - 108 mm [4-1/4"]
Softwood - 184 mm [7-1/4"]
400
Solid wood, face laminated

Solid wood and veneer
combined and/or adjacent*
Panel products - If width
exceeds 1219 mm [48"], shall
have shop assembled joint
HPDL overlay - If width
exceeds 1524 mm [60"], shall
have shop assembled joint (some
limited to 1219 mm [48"],
determined by pattern selected
or specified)
Premium
Grade I
Grade I
"AA" Face Veneer
HGS - 1.2 mm [.048"]
Custom
Grade II
Grade II
"A" Face Veneer
HGS - 1.2 mm [.048"]
Economy
Mill option
Mill option
Mill option
HGS - 1.2 mm [.048"]
Well matched for grain and

color
Compatible for color
No match required
No match required
No match required
Sequence matched
No match required
No match required
No match required
No match required

color
color
* It is recognized that the grain and color of solid lumber and the same species and cut of veneer will appear different. The cutting and
pressing of the veneer often modifies the surface cells. These natural differences are acceptable in any grade.
Length in one piece

Solid wood:
Most hardwoods - 3 m [9'-10"]
Most softwoods - 4.5 m [14'-9"]
Solid Laminated:
Most Hardwoods - 3 m [9'-10"]
Most Softwoods - 4.5 m [14'-9"]
Panel products:
HPDL overlay: 3.6 m [11'-9"]

provided pattern is available in
that length
Minimum Thickness
Solid wood
Solid laminated
Panel products
HPDL substrate
Core and substrate
Panel product for HPDL
Premium and Custom Grade
tops and backsplashes in
which sinks occur
172
No match required
No match required
No match required
No match required
No match required
No match required
3 m [9'-10"] maximum
End match, shop prepared
3 m [9'-10"] maximum
2.4 m [7'-10"] max.

No match required
Match required, shop

prepared joints
No match required, shop

prepared joints
No match required, field

joints
25.4 mm [1"]
28.6 mm [1-1/8"]
19 mm [3/4"]
19 mm [3/4"]
25.4 mm [1"]
28.6 mm [1-1/8"]
19 mm [3/4"]
19 mm [3/4"]
19 mm [3/4"]
19 mm [3/4"]
19 mm [3/4"]
19 mm [3/4"]
Industrial grade medium density particleboard or medium density fiberboard

Shop sanded exterior grade veneer core plywood; or
Industrial grade medium
industrial grade particleboard or fiberboard with a 24
density particleboard or
hour thickness swell factor of 5% or less and a 24 hour
medium density
water absorption factor of 10% or less
fiberboard
Section 400
Countertops
400C-T-2
Workmanship
Workmanship Table
Delamination
Selection at field joints on
exposed surfaces
Selection for Solid Laminated
(butcher block) components
Premium
None allowed
Selected for uniformity of
grain, color, and/or pattern
Selected for pleasing blend
of grain or pattern
Shall meet joint tolerances
for exposed components,
and no more than 1 per
0.4 square m [4 sq ft ]
Leaves individually book
matched and end matched
Custom
None allowed
of grain or pattern
No selection required
Economy
None allowed
Shall meet joint tolerances Shall meet joint tolerances

End matching of veneers on
No matching required
exposed surfaces
of grain or pattern
Paper backing required
wherever unsupported area
exceeds .6 square m [6 sq
Backing sheet requirements for
Standard 0.5 mm [.020"]
ft] and core is 19 mm
HPDL overlay, (required under
phenolic backing minimum [3/4"] thick; .8 square m [8 No backing sheet required
narrow applied drop edge or
required in all cases
Sq Ft] and core is 25 mm
return only if specified)
[1"] thick; 1 square m [10
Sq Ft] and core is 28 mm
[1-1/8"] or thicker
Prior to application of drop Prior to application of drop
edge and/or front edge
edge and/or front edge
Application of Backing Sheet
No backing sheet required
lamination or finish
lamination or finish
material
material
Application of HPDL self edge
Edge laminated before top Edge laminated before top
Edge laminated after top
Made from a single panel in one machining process; miterfold edge and top laminated
Miter fold HPDL top
at the same time; tape, machining, adhesive, folding, glue, clamp, and clean
Flatness (after installation) is a
1 mm [1/16"] in any
3 mm [1/8"] in any
6 mm [1/4"] in any
defect when maximum deviation
1220 mm x 2440 mm
1220 mm x 2440 mm
1220 mm x 2440 mm
exceeds
[4' x 8' nom.] segment
Field Joints, (not permitted
More than 1220 mm [48"]
More than 914 mm [36"]
within 460 mm [18"] and waterapart, and shall not occur
apart, and shall not occur
No requirement
tight if within 1220 mm [48"] of within 1220 mm [48"] of
within 914 mm [36"] of
sink cut outs for any grade)
the end of any top
the end of any top
NOTE: Site conditions often dictate the use and placement of field or factory joints. Factory or field openings and/or
cutouts must have corner radii of no less than 3.2 mm [1/8"] (HPDL and substrate) at all inside corners. Consult your
manufacturer for engineering suggestions prior to the beginning of fabrication.
Sealing of substrate at sink cuts
Required
Required
No requirement
0.4 mm [1/64"] x 76 mm
0.8 mm [1/32"] x 127 mm 1.6 mm [1/16"] x 203 mm
Maximum allowable separation
[3"] and no more than 1
between factory assembled
per 1219 mm [48"] section per 1219 mm [48"] section per 1219 mm [48"] section
splash and top components
of top
of top
of top
Application of silicone sealant
to factory assembled joint
Required
Not required
Not required
between HPDL top and splash
Use of thermoset decorative
Not allowed
Allowed
Allowed
overlay as backer material
Joint in top HPDL or top
Not permitted within
Not permitted within
Not permitted at cut out
substrate at factory sink cut out
460 mm [18"]
229 mm [9"]
End joints for solid laminated
(butcher block) components
173
400
Section 400
Countertops
Monolithic core
Backer applied and beveled
Monolithic core
No backer in Economy Grade
Edge applied after top

Economy Grade
Edge applied before top

Custom and Premium Grade
Common core with drop edge

No backer in Economy Grade
Common core with drop edge

Backer applied to core only
400
Note: In the absence of specifications, the sequence of all edge applications other than HPDL material shall be at the
option of the manufacturer. Wood, 3 mm PVC, and T-mold edges are typically applied after the top is laminated.
Edge application for HPDL - Figure 400-53
400C-T-3
Smoothness of Exposed Surfaces (Minimum requirements for wood components)
Premium
Custom
Economy
Sanding
Finish Condition for flat face surfaces of wood and veneer (does not apply to High Pressure Decorative Laminate)
Transparent
180 grit, no cross scratches
150 grit
100 grit
Opaque
180 grit
150 grit
100 grit
NOTE: Cross scratches are defined as any sanding scratch occurring at more than a 5 degree angle to the grain direction.
Sand-through of veneer not acceptable in any Grade.
400C-T-4
Selection for Grain and Color
400C-T-5
Engineering for Overhang and Cantilever
For Transparent finish, adjacent members shall
The maximum distance a countertop may cantilever, with or

without sub top, from a support is 305 mm [12"], whether in
the front, back, or end.
Plant Assemblies
Premium Grade: be well matched for grain and color.

Custom Grade: be compatible for color.
Economy Grade: not be selected.
Visible finger joints not permitted in Premium and Custom
Grades. No selection for grain or color is required for Opaque
finish in any grade.
Field Assemblies
Selection of adjacent members for compatibility is the responsibility of the installation contractor.
Note: The 400C-T-4 criteria do not apply to high
pressure decorative laminates or to solid surfacing materials.
They are intended to apply to lumber and veneer members of
countertop constructions.
174
Note: High pressure decorative laminate (HPDL) is

not 100% dimensionally stable and its dimensional behavior is
similar to wood. Significant variations in humidity may result
in dimensional changes which may have the effect of causing
joints to open slightly. Conditioning of laminate is important
to achieve moisture equilibrium of laminate and substrate before assembly. Maintenance of the built environment by the
owner within relative humidity guidelines set forth in Section
1700 of this Standard is required to minimize expansion and
contraction.
Section 400
Countertops
400C-T-6
Wood Finished Edge Application
A check indicates permitted for the Grade specified.
Finished Wood Edge to Top
Premium
Custom
Economy
Pressure glued (no nails or other visible fasteners)
Glue and finish nail

Nailed
NOTE: Filling nail holes is done during finishing. When factory finishing is not specified and/or part of the
manufacturer's contract, the responsibility for filling and smoothing of fill material lies with the finishing contractor.
When panel products are used for tops, engineering shall be selected to avoid nailing only into panel product edges.
400
175
Section 400
Countertops
Compliance Criteria
400C-C-1
Joint Tolerances
Test criteria based on testing prior to the application of any fill material to the joint. Fill material is allowed, and often used, to
create better joint appearance. Width of fill material greater than the following criteria is not permitted.
NOTE: Factory assembled components only, not field attached
Premium
Custom
Economy
.4 mm [1/64"]
.8 mm [1/32"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
76 mm [3"]
127 mm [5"]
204 mm [8"]
Maximum gap between Semi-exposed components
.8 mm [1/32"]
1.6 mm [1/16"]
3 mm [1/8"]
Maximum length of gap in Semi-exposed components
152 mm [6"]
204 mm [8"]
305 mm [12"]
Maximum gap between Exposed components

Maximum length of gap in Exposed components
400
NOTE: No gap shall occur within 1220 mm [48"] of another gap (except adjustable shelf ends).
Exposed gap test location

(when miter or butt joint occurs)
Typical self-edged HPDL countertop
Semi-exposed gap test location

Microbevel at joint
(not to exceed depth of HPDL backing)
acceptable (but not required) for all Grades.
1.5 mm square cut quirk, vein, or reveal
also a good engineering solution.
Exposed gap test location
Typical wood-edged HPDL countertop
Semi-exposed gap test location
176
Joint Tolerances - Figure 400-54
Section 400
Countertops
400C-C-2
Flushness Between Exposed Factory Assembled Joints (wood and non-wood)
Test criteria based on testing prior to the application of any fill material to the joint. Fill material is allowed, and often used, to
create better joint appearance. Width of fill material greater than the following criteria is not permitted.
Note: HPDL is not dimensionally stable. Significant variations in humidity will result in dimensional changes which
may have the effect of causing joints to open slightly. Conditioning of laminate and substrate to achieve moisture equilibrium
is important before assembly. Maintenance of proper relative humidity by the owner is required in final use.
NOTE: Factory assembled components only, not field attached

Premium
Custom
Economy
0.1 mm (.005") 0.2 mm (.010") 0.3 mm (.015")

400
Miter
or
Butt
Joint
Flushness Test Locations
177
Section 400
400C-C-3
Edge/Joint Quality
Premium
Countertops
Custom
Economy
All wood edges shall be eased (sharp

corner removed) unless profile or other
treatment is specified. Chipout or
tearout shall be inconspicuous when
treatment is specified. No chipout or
viewed at 610 mm [24"]. No chipout
tearout is allowed.
or tearout shall occur within 1220 mm
[48"] of another.
Joints and reveals shall be securely fit.
Joints and reveals shall be tightly fit.
The use of fillers of any type shall be
The use of fillers of any type shall not
inconspicuous when viewed at
be allowed.
610 mm [24"].
400

treatment is specified. Chipout or
tearout shall be inconspicuous when
viewed at 914 mm [36"]. No chipout
or tearout shall occur within 1220 mm
[48"] of another.
Joints and reveals shall be securely fit.
The use of fillers of any type shall be
inconspicuous when viewed at at
914 mm [36"].
All adhesive residue shall be removed from all Exposed and Semi-exposed surfaces in all Grades.

machined flush and eased (sharp
eased (sharp corner removed). Cleanup
machined flush, filed, sanded, or
corner removed). Cleanup at easing
at easing may show a maximum
buffed to remove machine marks and
eased (sharp corner removed). Cleanup may show a maximum visible overlap visible overlap of no more than 0.13
at easing shall be such that no overlap of no more than 0.13 mm [.005"] for a mm [.005"] for a length of no more
length of no more than 25.4 mm [1"]
than 50.8 mm [2"] in any 1220 mm
of the member eased is visible.
in any 610 mm [24"] run. Chipout of
[48"] run. Chipout of the laminate
Chipout of the laminate shall be
the laminate shall be inconspicuous
shall be inconspicuous when viewed at
inconspicuous when viewed at
when viewed at 1220 mm [48"].
1829 mm [72"].
610 mm [24"].
material due to over-machining limited material due to over-machining limited material due to over-machining limited
to 2.4 mm [3/32"] x 102 mm [4"] and
to 1.6 mm [1/16"] x 38.1 mm [1-1/2"] to 1.6 mm [1/16"] x 76 mm [3"] and
may not occur within 1524 mm [60"] may not occur within 1220 mm [48"]
and may not occur within 1829 mm
[72"] of a similar occurrence.
Miter fold edges shall have no open gaps on any exposed edge in any Grade of Work. Each edge shall be filed or sanded
to ease sharp edge, just to remove sharpness with minimal exposure of inner layers.
Note: HPDL is not dimensionally stable. Significant variations in humidity will result in dimensional changes which may
have the effect of causing joints to open slightly. Conditioning of laminate and substrate to achieve moisture equilibrium
is important before assembly. Maintenance of proper relative humidity by the owner is required in final use.
Test location
Edge/Joint Quality - Figure 400-56
178
Section 400
Design Ideas
400-D
Freedom of Expression
Custom-designed woodwork gives you complete freedom of
expression.
Design flexibility: The use of custom-designed woodwork
in a building allows the design professional freedom of expression while meeting the functional needs of the client. A
custom-designed building is enhanced by the use of customdesigned woodwork.
Cost effective: Custom woodwork does compete favorably
with mass-produced millwork, and offers practically limitless
variations of design and material. Most woodwork lasts the
life of the building quality counts.
Complete adaptability: By using custom woodwork, the
architect or designer can readily conceal plumbing, electrical
and other mechanical equipment without compromising the
design criteria.
No restrictions: Custom architectural woodwork permits
complete freedom of selection of any of the numerous hardwoods and softwoods available for transparent or opaque finish.
Other unique materials available from woodwork manufacturers
require no further finishing at all, such as plastic laminates and
decorative overlays. These materials can be fashioned into a
wide variety of profiles, sizes, and configurations. The owner
and design professional have the best of both worlds high
quality and freedom of choice.
Dimensional flexibility: Since custom woodwork is normally produced by a specialty architectural woodwork firm,
dimensions can easily be changed prior to actual fabrication,
if required by job conditions. Special situations such as designing for the handicapped can readily be accommodated by
the custom architectural woodwork manufacturer.
Quality assurance: Adherence to the QSI and specifications
will provide the design professional a quality product at a
competitive price. Use of a qualified AWI/AWMAC member
firm will help ensure the woodworkers understanding of the
quality level required.
179
400
Section 400
400-D-1
Detail Nomenclature
Spline Joint
French Dovetail Joint
Familiarity with the labeled details on this page will facilitate

communication between architects, designers, specifiers, and
woodwork manufacturers by establishing common technical
language.
Spline Joint: Used to strengthen and align faces when gluing panels in width or length, including items requiring site
assembly.
Stub Tenon
Stub Tenon: Joinery method for assembling stile and rail

type frames that are additionally supported, such as web or
skeleton case frames.
Conventional Dovetail Joint
Haunch Mortise and Tenon Joint: Joinery method for assembling paneled doors or stile and rail type paneling.
400
Conventional Mortise and Tenon Joint: Joinery method for

assembling square-edged surfaces such as case face frames.
Dowel Joint: Alternative joinery method serving same function as Conventional Mortise and Tenon.
Haunch Mortise and Tenon Joint
French Dovetail Joint: Method for joining drawer sides to

fronts when fronts conceal metal extension slides or overlay
the case faces.
Conventional Dovetail Joint: Traditional method for joining drawer sides to fronts or backs. Usually limited to flush
or lipped type drawers.
Drawer Lock-Joint: Another joinery method for joining
drawer sides to fronts. Usually used for flush type installation
but can be adapted to lip or overlay type drawers.
Drawer Lock-Joint
Conventional Mortise
and Tenon Joint
Exposed End Details: Illustrates attachment of finished

end of case body to front frame using a butt joint and a lock
mitered joint.
Through Dado: Conventional joint used for assembly of
case body members. Dado not concealed by application of
case face frame.
Blind Dado: Variation of Through Dado with applied edge
stopping or concealing dado groove.
Stop Dado: Another method of concealing dado exposure. Ap- Dowel Joint
plicable when veneer edging or solid lumber is used. Exposed
End Detail illustrates attachment of finished end of case body
to front frame using butt joint.
Exposed End Details
Dowel Joint: Fast becoming an industry standard assembly

method, this versatile joinery technique is often based on 32
mm spacing of dowels.
Edge Banding: Method of concealing plies or inner cores of
plywood or particleboard when edges are exposed. Thickness
or configuration will vary with manufacturers practices.
Paneled Door Details: Joinery techniques when paneled effect
is desired. Profiles are optional as is the use of flat or raised
panels. Solid lumber raised panels may be used when width
does not exceed the standard. Rim-raised panels recommended
for Premium Grade or when widths exceed this Standard or
when transparent finish is used.
180
Section 400
Through Dado
Edge Banding
May Vary
1/50" To 3/8"
Blind Dado
Paneled Door Detail
Stop Dado
400
Solid Raised Panel

or Membranewrapped veneer
over stable
panel product
Stile
Solid Ovolo Sticking
Rail
Paneled Door Detail
Dowel Joint
Rim Raised Panel
Stile
Solid Sticking
Rail
Paneled Door Detail
Euro. Screw
Stile
Applied Raised Modling
Flat or Raised Panel
Rail
181
Section 400
400-D-1 (continued)
Hinge Selection Guide
Architectural cabinet hinges will usually be furnished from the manufacturers stock unless otherwise specified. The four most
common hinge types are illustrated below, along with a brief table to assist in selection.
European hinges with the screws set in synthetic inserts are fast becoming industry standard. These hinges have been found
to be cost-effective alternatives to the more traditional hinges shown below. Follow hinge manufacturers recommendations on
number and spacing of hinges. There are conditions, however, in which the use of butt or wraparound hinges will continue to
be the best solution. Pivot hinges often require a cut-in center hinge. Consult manufacturers recommendations.
The owner and the design professional will be best served by involving an AWI member-manufacturer in the design and selection process early in the project.
Butt
Wraparound
Pivot
European Style
Reveal Overlay
Flush Overlay
Conventional Flush
without Face Frame
Reveal Overlay
Flush Overlay
Frame
400
Door
Hinge Type
Applications
Conventional Flush Conventional Reveal

with Face Frame
Overlay
Strength
High
Very High
Moderate
Moderate
Concealed
when closed
No
No
Semi
Yes
Requires
mortising
Yes
Occasionally
Usually
Yes
Cost of
hinge
Low
Moderate
Low
Moderate
Ease of
installation
Moderate
Easy
Moderate
Very Easy
Easily adjusted
after installation
No
No
No
Yes
Door requires
hardwood edge
1. Specify degree of
opening
2. No catch required
on self-closing styles
Remarks
182
Door requires
hardwood edge
Exposed knuckle
and hinge body
Section 400
400-D-1 (continued)
Drawer Slide Selection Guide
The following table serves as both a checklist and a starting point for the discussion of a wide variety of drawer slide systems.
While by no means exhaustive, the characteristics described below are often considered the most important by the client, the
design professional, and the woodwork manufacturer. The selection of the slide characteristics will affect the usefulness of the
cabinets. Careful consideration should be given to avoid overspecifying for the purpose intended.
The owner and the design professional will be wise to involve an AWI/AWMAC member manufacturer in the design and selection process early in the project. Dimensions use the inch-pound convention.
Degree of
Extension
STANDARD EXTENSIONAll but 4-6" of drawer body extends out of cabinet

FULL EXTENSIONEntire drawer body extends out to face of cabinet
FULL EXTENSION WITH OVERTRAVELEntire drawer body extends beyond the
face of cabinet
Static Load
Capacity
50 PoundsResidential/Light Commercial
75 PoundsCommercial
100 PoundsHeavy Duty
Over 100 PoundsSpecial Conditions, Extra Heavy Duty
Dynamic
Load Capacity
30 Pounds; 35,000 cyclesResidential/Light Commercial

50 Pounds; 50,000 cyclesCommercial
75 Pounds; 100,000 cyclesHeavy Duty
Removal Stop
INTEGRAL STOPRequires ten times the normal opening force to remove drawer
POSITIVE STOPLatch(es) which must be operated/opened to remove drawer
Closing
Metal Sided
Systems
400
SELF CLOSING/STAY CLOSEDDrawer slides will self-close with their related dynamic
load when the drawer is 2" from the fully closed position and not bounce open when
properly adjusted
In recent years several hardware manufacturers have developed drawer systems of one type
or another, nearly all proprietary. In addition to the above criteria, the following should be
considered for these system prior to approval for use:
POSITIVE STOPDrawer must stop within itself and not rely on the drawer front to stop it
PULLOUT STRENGTHSystem must demonstrate sufficient strength of attachment of front
to sides - design professional should evaluate and approve individually
183
Section 400
400-D-2
Designs - Form and Function
The following series of basic cabinet styles are used with permission of the Woodwork Institute in California for all editions.
They are not intended to illustrate every possible cabinet configuration or fabrication solution. They are presented here for reference and design purposes. Consult with your woodwork manufacturer for details and features. These drawings are available as
Autodesk Revit Families and AutoCAD .DWG and .DXF files at http://www.woodworkinstitute.com/manual.asp.
400
100
106
111
184
102
101
107
112
110
116
117
120
122
130
131
132
Section 400
136
140
142
141
150
148
400
151
152
153
154
156
158
160
161
162
170
171
172
185
Section 400
176
178
177
400
179
186
189
192
186
182
180
187
190
196
188
191
197
Section 400
198
199
211
212
221
230
210
222
233
223
240
242
250
251
252
260
261
400
220
187
Section 400
262
263
264
270
271
272
400
290
291
292
300
301
302
306
309
188
307
310
308
311
Section 400
312
317
315
318
321
316
320
322
323
324
325
326
336
340
350
351
352
400
353
189
Section 400
406
407
408
410
411
412
400
413
417
190
414
418
416
419
Section 400
420
421
422
400
423
423
426
424
424
427
425
425
429
191
Section 400
430
431
432
400
434
435
438
439
440
441
443
192
444
445
Section 400
446
447
448
400
449
500
510
454
501
511
459
502
512
193
Section 400
520
522
530
400
531
532
533
540
194
534
541
552
601
602
603
Section 400
605
606
607
400
608
614
620
621
622
623
624
625
626
195
Section 400
627
628
634
19 mm [3/4"] Top
400
640
643
652
661
196
641
644
653
662
642
651
654
663
Section 400
664
671
672
Gate
673
674
681
674a
682
400
683
Dictionary Stand with
Swivel Base
684
700
704
693
702
707
703
710
197
Section 400
712
714
715
400
716
198
720
721
722
724
725
726
728
730
Section 400
731
732
734
400
735
736
737
738
739
742
743
747
744
750
746
751
199
Section 400
753
752
754
400
755
200
760
Section 400
These illlustrations are not intended to be all inclusive. Other engineering solutions may be acceptable. In the
absence of specifications, fabrication methods are at the option of the woodwork manufacturer.
Radiused Top
Square Top
End Splash Joint
Tight Joint Fastener
Removable Ledge
400
Square Splash
Joint
Self Edge
w/ Wide
Build Up
Self Edge
Economy
Self Edge
Premium/Custom
Self Edge
w/ Drip Groove
Laboratory
No Drip
Self Edge
The details below can not be made on radiused counter tops
Coved Splash Joint

Miter Fold
No-Drip Edge
Waterfall Edge
Full Round Edge
Details courtesy of The Woodwork Institute of California

Used with permission.
201
Section 400
400-D-4
Ideas in Groups
400-D-5
Schools and Libraries
The final subdivisions of this section are an ever-growing collection of design ideas with an additional level of detail. While
these ideas are grouped by (admittedly somewhat arbitrary)
classifications, the design professional should never hesitate
to adopt and adapt from one group to another.
13"
Note: There are projects, such as credenzas, which

benefit from having the grain or pattern carried on to the toe
space. Toe kicks with exposure to moisture are often specified
to be solid hardwood, with the grain running horizontally. Such
special considerations shall be clearly noted on the design
drawings and in the specifications. Base/toe on cabinets shall
be integral (constructed as an integral part of the cabinet body)
or separate (constructed as a separate member) at the option
of the manufacturer.
84"
Stile and rail doors and drawer fronts, and face frames on
some cabinets, require careful attention to details regarding
material selection for compatibility of grain and color as well
as grain direction.
When transparent finish is specified for exposed surfaces, semiexposed surfaces are not required to be transparent finish.
The advice and suggestions of all the members of the construction team, from the customers through the designers
through the contractors and subcontractors, can and should
be evaluated.
400-D-5 Schools and Libraries

400-D-6 Banks and Courts
400-D-7 Corporate Woodwork
400-D-8 Furniture and Fixtures
400-D-9 Reception
400-D-10 Church Fittings
400-D-11 Basic Cabinetry
8"
The classifications to follow are:
4"
400
24"
Most importantly, the Quality Standards Board of Review

presents these ideas as a starting point for creative design
and fabrication. They are not intended as an illustration of
the only way to accomplish a design solution, nor are they
intended to establish firm recommendations on dimensions
or fabrication techniques.
16"
18"
202
Section 400
83-7/8"
Adjustable
Shelving
EQ.
36"
1/8" 1/8" 1/8" 1/8"

EQ. EQ. EQ. EQ.
4"
3/8"
1-1/2"
28"
24-1/4"
26-1/14"
20-1/4"
22-1/4"
23-3/4"
7-1/8" 9-1/2" 7-1/8"
5"
20"
34"
3/4"x7-1/8" Oak
Wall Cap
4"
400
4"
Use only kilndried solid

lumber or
panel product
30"
203
Section 400
104-3/4"
110"
4" Fluted Trim
10"
110"
400
4"
29-9/16"
29-9/16"
29-9/16"
12"
99"
2"
3-1/2"
12"
22"
2"
22"
99"
22"
2"
22"
10"
49-1/2"
204
9-1/2"
11-1/2"
Section 400
Cameo White
Stainless Steel
Corner Guard
7-1/2"
7-1/2"
24"
3"
Lacewood
Run Grain Vert.
Swivel Caster
W/ Brake
22-1/2"
45.00
39"
5-1/8"
34"
59-1/2"
400
EQ.
EQ.
EQ.
48"
16"
EQ.
1"
33"
12"
1-1/4"
Oak Edge
24"
8"
16"
1-1/2"
Oak Edge
Coat Hook
205
Section 400
400-D-6
Banks and Courts
Refer to enlarged plan
for bank accessories
Pen
28-
Wast
Form
Pen
Holder
Form
Holder
Pen
Waste door 1-1/2" grommeted hole
w/waste can for calculator cord
below
84"
Day/Date Display
400
Solid surface,
typical
Walnut Veneer,
typical
Ceramic tile base
by others, typical
8"
12"
8"
"
14"
8"
36"
26-1/2"
4
R1
Grey Overlay
Interior
Removable Panel
Adj. Shelf
40"
40"
31"
Typical Teller Counter Section
Movable Foot Rest
18"
12"
4"
206
Section 400
25-3/4"
12"
1" x 1-1/2"
Bullnose
400
1/2" glass
Line of
GWB
Oak Base
1-1/2"
P.lam
2"
P.lam removable
panel (typ.)
12"
11"
3"
3/4"
3/4
part.
board
P.lam
ceramic base
207
Section 400
Matching edge banding
1/4" Blue tinted

temperd glass
w/ seamed inside
and outside edges
Note: Ends are open to receive supplies
8"
1-1/2" P-Board
2'4"
2'8"
(One Unit) (One Unit)
P-Lam on 3/4"
particle bd.
Note: Ends are open to receive supplies
400
3/4" P-Lam dividers

12 Eq. spaces
12"x12" Access door

one side only
paint to match laminate
4'0"
16"
"
4
R2
R1
2"
1/4" Blue tinted

temperd glass
w/ seamed inside
and outside edges
P-Lam top
Note: Glass top is to
be resting on clear
rubber bumpers. Glass top
shall be flush w/P-Lam top
35"
6" dia. hole in top
20-1/2"
84"
10"
24"
1-1/2"
4"
-3/
12
32-1/2"
Wall
Cleat
38"
Typical Work Counter with

Literature Display below
4"
208
2003 AWI/AWMAC
11-1/4"- 8th Edition Quality Standards
13-1/4"
Section 400
Judges Bench
400
12"
Cherry Veneer on
2 layers 3/4" part.
Bolt
to stud
8
3/8"
2" x 2" x 1/4"

Steel Support Bracket
3/4"
12"
11/2"
11/2" Wire Raceway
Bullet Proof
Sheathing
209
Section 400
400-D-7
Corporate Woodwork
1-1/2"
19-5/8"
Plain sliced
Honduras
Mahogany
3/4" fire ret.
116-1/8" top
of dec. wood
fl to ceiling
1-1/4"
84"
18"
1/4"
R=1/8"
1-1/8"
13-3/8"
400
2"
3-3/4"
7/8"
12-1/2"
2-1/2"
1-5/8"
R=1-3/8"
7"
R=7/8"
5-1/4"
7-3/4"
R=3/4"
3/4"
210
1-1/2"
Section 400
Column-Tuscan Style
10" Top, 12" Bottom,
84" High
1-1/2"
Under counter
light
5"
Varies
13"
2"
42"
Attach Column
to Base
5-1/4"
Removable
panel
5-3/4"
11-3/4"
4"
P-Lam All
Exposed
Surfaces
400
38"
42"
Added
Center
Support
Brace
4"
14"
18"
1-1/8" Top
18"
1/4" Notch
@ Hinge
24"
4"
24"
Metal Pin
25-1/8"
25-1/8"
4"
4"
Piano Hinge
SECTION
Chart Table
SECTION
Chart Table
W/Top Down
211
Section 400
Pocket Door
Hardware
30"
33-1/2"
Non-glare
glass monitor cover
14"
1-1/2"
4" 6"
32" CLR
30"
15"
Black Melamine
Interior
400
Keyboard
Tray
32"
36"
40"
2"
28-1/2"
7-1/2"
Inset Doors
31"
30"
36"
4"
6"
Pull-Out Shelves
Use blocking on
sides to provide
clearance for door
hardware
4"
14-
Keyboard
5/
4"
5"
8"
9"
2"
2"
Cut for
table tray
36"
32"
12"
4"
2"
212
Detatched Base
30"
8"
Removable Panel
13-1/2"
Section 400
3/4" Hardwood top
3/4" Finished Hdwd. Trim ON

3/4" Panel Prod.
w/ Veneer to Match, Typical
3/4" Hdwd Base

Typical
FRONT VIEW
3/4"
16"
12"
HPDL All
Exterior
Surfaces
18"
400
90
50
20
Adust.
Shelf
110
SIDE VIEW
6"
21"
14"
1"
HPDL
4"
3"
3/4" Finished
HDWD. Typical
12"
Finish
Back
P-Lam
30"
46"
4"
32-1/4"
34-1/4"
5-1/4"
213
Section 400
P-Lam All
Exposed
Surfaces
30"
5"
24" @ Vanities
25" @ Sink Units
24"
8" min
4"
34"
Adjustable Table
Wireway
36"
21-1/2"
8"
400
4"
3" 2"
13"
3" Oak Edge
1/2" Solid Surface

1-1/2" Reveal
P.Lam Top
Rift Sawn Red Oak

Veneer
42"
1-1/2" Oak Quarter

Round Edge
Light
1" PB. Sub Top
Tack Board
26"
1/4"x8" Solid Surface
Oak Base
22-1/2"
24-1/2"
214
Section 400
400-D-8
Furniture and Fixtures
P.Lam top with Cherry bullnose
Ceiling Scribe
Display shelf retracted
Display shelf extended
at about 25 degrees
Pivot sliding door hardware
32"
Cherry veneer cabinet and shelves

with solid cherry bullnose edges
Cherry veneer shelf and cabinet

w/solid cherry bullnose edges
400
Fixed shelves @
45 degrees
Cherry base
3/4 " Ceiling scribe
Cherry veneer top

w/ solid bullnose
Cherry Veneer
55"
1 1/2" Cherry bullnose
P.Lam. Top w/
Cherry bullnose
30"
Cherry base
3/4" Cherry applied base
215
Section 400
2 1/2"
1/2"
2" dia. black grommet

1/4" HdBd. dividers
painted to blend
with Solid Surface
Tops
400
29"
24"
1/4" glass
24"
Metal
Top
Support
43"
P.Lam inside finish

Cherry vener/solid
outside finish
Display drawer
mounted on
slildes below
24"
3/4" oak top with 3/4" subtop

and solid oak 1/4 round edges
11"
27"
P.lam tops
3"
Metal pan
35"
Accent Light
furnished by W.W.
installed by Elect.
White oak veneer

planter with
solid white oak trims
216
9"
11"
Center partitions
notched to allow
for warming pan
25"
4"
Adj. legs with
ext. grade veneer
core base substrate
Section 400
18"
Stone or Solid surface top and facia trim

24"
Removeable
terminal shelf
Cash drawer
35"
Wire raceway
Printer shelf
Paper storage drawer
400
4" casters
3/8" oak tambour over

1/2" particleboard core
22"
White Marble
Pol
Brass
Satin
Brass
Black
HPDL
38"
Black
HPDL
P.Lam top and sides

PVC edges
Black HPDL
21"
Adj. feet
Cup dispenser inserts by owner
217
Section 400
2"
Flip pocket doors
50"
400
Heavy-duty
pull out shelf
36"
12" upper
shelves
16" interior
shelves
Light duty
pull out shelf
29"
218
24"
Section 400
30"
Single and
Double-sided
Units with
bullnosed shelves
Finished back
on single sided
units
60"
All exposed
surfaces
White Oak and
White Oak
veneer
5"
HPDL
1/2" PtBd.
wrapped w/
fabric
1/4" glass
mirror
3"
100"
34"
15"
1/4" clear
glass
sliding
doors
90"
20"
5"
Vertical Section
Jewelry Showcase
Glass
shelves
3/4" white
oak veneer
sliding
doors
5"
23"
219
400
Section 400
Shelf
brackets
Line of shelves
1/4" clear glass, all four sides
400
Lock
Plan Section
Isometric
24"
1/4" glass top set on felt tape
P.Lam
slatwall
72"
Removeable bottom
for wire access
Adj. shelves
on slatwall
hardware
Storage
drawers
Vertical Section
220
48"
Section 400
Detail at Left
3 1/2"
Black wood trim
4 7/8"
4 7/8"
4 7/8"
1/4" mirror
1/2" frosted plexi
42"
Flour. light within
Marble
400
Detail at Top of Back Bar
58"
Elevation at Back Bar
10"
1"
45
16"
top shelf
edge detail
vertical section
shelf is mitered
all four sides
3/4"
1 1/2"
56 or 60"
16" x 60 adjustable shelf

shelf section/edge detail
3 1/2"
28"
vertical section
base edge detail

vertical section
Rolling Display Store Fixture
221
Section 400
Detail at Top Apron
R=1"
R=3/8"
3/4"
1 1/4"
400
48"
96"
39"
30"
222
Section 400
400-D-9
Reception
30"
12"
2"
Counter: 3/4" MDF
w/Plam & Backer
w/HDWD. edge
2"
18"
Counter: 3/4" MDF

w/p.lam & backer
Natural cork w/HDWD. edge
blind fasten
3-1/2"
1/2" Baltic Birch
w/ clear finish 3-1/2"
1/8" Aluminum Rails

for Letter Files
10"
42"
400
5mm holes
32mm on center
30"
20"
4"
24"
3-1/2"
3"
3-1/2"
3/4" support bracket

p.lam on MDF core
P.lam on 3/4" MDF core
Plywood studs w/ 1-1/2" wire holes
6"
18"
Removable panel:
MDF w/plam @ all
exposed surfaces
Fixed p.lam panel

attach in field (typ.)
Scribe
10"
Vinyl base by GC
223
Section 400
36"
3" Oak Bullnose
3" Oak
14"
3/4" x 3-1/2"
Oak Trim
30"
1-1/2" Oak Bullnose
1-1/2" Oak Bullnose
42"
400
4"
26-1/4"
28-1/4"
26-1/4"
28-1/4"
4-1/2"
12"
Walk-up or
Customer
Counter
Wire Race
2'-1"
Work Surface
Continuous
Vertical
Grain Match
Front Elev. - Small Reception Desk w/ Drawers
224
Sect. thru Typ. Drawer

Stack/Reception
Section 400
36"
Walk-up or
Customer
Counter
12"
12"
Tack Surface
Work Surface
30"
36"
Shelves
42"
42"
Sliding
Keyboard
Tray
30"
400
Removable Panel
12"
13"
12"
13"
13-1/2"
13-1/2"
1-1/2"
24-1/2"
30"
4"
2"
5"
6 Eq.
spaces
24-1/2"
30"
4"
4"
15-1/4"
17-1/4"
5"
5"
225
Section 400
12"
33"
12"
12"
1-1/2"
Metal support
bracket
(60" max. spacing)
400
8"
18"
25"
48"
3"
30"
28"
30"
4"
5"
2"
2"
14"
1-1/2"
4"
Metal
Support
12"
P-Lam exposed
surfaces
4"
HPDL Exposed
Surface
2"
25"
29"
1-1/2"
4"
14-1/2"
31-1/4"
4"
40"
P-Lam exposed
surfaces
All braces thru-out
are to be curved
23-1/2"
4"
30"
2"
2"
5"
226
Section 400
8-1/2"
Keyboard shelf
30
37"
17"
10-3/8"
17-3/4"
8-3/4"
3/4"
Ver
ify
8"
Expanded Metal
Screen by G.C.
4 x 4 Cable Chase
19"
3"
17-3/4"
1/4" Plexi-Glass
9"
3"
10-3/8"
10-3/4"
9-1/4"
1/4" removable
Masonite
Dividers
37" 23-5/8"
400
Pull-out shelf
Cut-out for exaust fan
verify size
3"
5-1/2"
11-5/8"
5-1/2"
26-1/2"
26-1/2"
28-1/2"
28-1/2"
12"
12"
2"
26-1/2"
26-1/2"
24"
24"
10"
42"
42"
Light
Light
18"
2"
20"
5"
14-1/2"
2"
18"
10"
7-1/2" 5"
227
Section 400
400-D-10
Church Fittings
Baptismal Font
Section A-A
Plywood
Brass
Solid Wood
400
26"
36"
Plywood
6"
Vertical Section
23.4"
42"
40"
Lectern
18"
20"
228
Section 400
400-D-11
Basic Cabinetry
12"
22"
to
36"
typ.
400
4"
Optional
P.Lam valance
1 1/2"
3/8"
25"
3/4" x 4" backsplash
5"
1/8"
36"
24"
22"
24"
229
Section 400
12"
18"
25"
1"
3 EQ. SPACES
1"
24 1/2" 1"
3 EQ. SPACES
1"
400
48 3/4"
12"
12"
15"
30"
25" VERIFY
25" VERIFY
36"
36"
23 1/4"
230
23 1/4"

QSI - Architectural Cabinets - 400

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QSI - Architectural Cabinets - 400

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ARCHITECTURAL CABINETS

Architectural Cabinets Section 400

Section 400 Selection and Specification Checklist

A. AWI/AWMAC Quality Standards Illustrated (QSI), current edition

2003 AWI/AWMAC - 8th Edition Quality Standards

2.3. PANEL PRODUCTS

2.7. FINISHING MATERIALS AND APPEARANCE

D. [Prime paint] [Seal] surfaces in contact with cementitious materials.

] of the contract documents.

B. Adjust moving or operating parts to function smoothly and correctly.

] of the contract documents.

2003 AWI/AWMAC - 8th Edition Quality Standards

This page is temporarily blank

2003 AWI/AWMAC - 8th Edition Quality Standards

400B. Laminate Clad Cabinets

Note: Structural lumber (S-DRY) is generally not a

2003 AWI/AWMAC - 8th Edition Quality Standards

Top and bottom fillers and corner panels are required

Ends and backs not

Backs of applied drawer

Inside faces of doors:

Treat ends and toe kicks as Exposed surfaces

2003 AWI/AWMAC - 8th Edition Quality Standards

When type of cabinet is not specified or clearly shown, type

If not specified, hardware furnished shall be standard

Key Elevation - Figure 400-02

common blocking (within a wall or ceiling) for the

This section does not cover finishing. However, site conditions

Note: When incorporating lumber and veneer with HPDL

2003 AWI/AWMAC - 8th Edition Quality Standards

Plan Section - Reveal Overlay - Figure 400-04

Plan Section - Reveal Overlay (Frame) - Figure 400-05

2003 AWI/AWMAC - 8th Edition Quality Standards

Scribes, and Fillers

E. Flush Inset with Face Frame

Small extensions or elements added to the bottoms, sides, or

Minimum dimension exposed - 19 mm [3/4"]

Conventional as well as concealed hinges are available for

Plan Section - Flush Inset (Frame) - Figure 400-07

Filler or Scribe at wall

Fillers - Figure 400-08

2003 AWI/AWMAC - 8th Edition Quality Standards

NOTE: Traditional face frame cabinets

Underside of wall cabinets: Type "A" flush

Underside of wall cabinets: Type "B" flush

Underside of wall cabinets:

Underside of wall cabinets: Type "A" reveal

Underside of wall cabinets: Type "C" flush

2003 AWI/AWMAC - 8th Edition Quality Standards

Minimum Nominal Thickness

Body Members - (ends [gables], divisions,

Face Frames, Rails, Toe Kicks, Cab.

Lumber or Panel product

19 mm [3/4"] for spans up to 914 mm [36"]

Veneer Core Plywood

19 mm [3/4"] for spans up to 914 mm [36"]

Medium Density Particleboard

19 mm [3/4"] for spans up to 813 mm [32]