Advanced Architectural Millwork & Custom Cabinetry Installation Protocol
Professional Shop Drawing Review
Establish a fabrication-level blueprint that aligns designer intent with actual site dimensions.
- Verify 1:1 scale on critical corner details and fillers
- Confirm all appliance model numbers match cut-out specs
- Validate door swing paths for hardware clearance
- Check scribe allowances for ceiling and wall transitions
- Audit grain-matching requirements across multiple sheets
- Review toe kick heights for continuous flooring transitions
- Confirm crown molding profiles and termination points
- Double-check finished panel thicknesses for flush overlays
- Verify internal drawer depth for utility clearance
- Cross-reference countertop overhangs with handle depths
Structural Blocking & Rough-In Audit
Prepare the wall envelope to support heavy loads and precise mechanical locations.
- Install 2x8 solid blocking for all upper cabinet hang rails
- Laser-verify floor levelness and identify high points
- Position plumbing drains within 1/4 inch of centerline
- Audit electrical outlet locations for appliance cord reach
- Reinforce floor joists for heavy kitchen islands or stones
- Mark gas line shut-off locations for easy cabinet access
- Seal wall penetrations to prevent air infiltration in voids
- Install niche framing for built-in espresso or microwave units
- Check wall plumbness and note deviations over 1/8 inch
- Mark out hidden HVAC duct paths to avoid screw penetration
Integrated Appliance Synchronization
Coordinate with manufacturers to ensure millwork panels align perfectly with built-in mechanics.
- Confirm anti-tip bracket installation for refrigerators
- Audit ventilation requirements for built-in compressor units
- Check power supply placement for steam ovens
- Verify dishwasher reveal specs for flush cabinet depth
- Confirm kickplate compatibility with integrated appliances
- Coordinate water line shut-offs with refrigerator drawers
- Test hinge resistance on heavy wood-paneled refrigerators
- Validate drawer-pull drilling locations for panel mounts
- Measure actual unit dimensions before fabrication
- Confirm exhaust duct clearance for island cooktop vents
Low-Voltage & Smart Lighting Logic
Seamlessly integrate task and accent lighting without visible cabling or drivers.
- Router recessed channels for LED aluminum extrusions
- Locate LED driver housings for serviceability and heat
- Pre-wire for touch-sensor cabinet opening mechanisms
- Verify kelvin temperatures match room primary lighting
- Check diffuser lens thickness for hot-spot elimination
- Route internal cabinet wires through concealed pathways
- Install hidden magnetic switches for pantry interior lights
- Identify placement for under-cabinet 'pop-out' outlets
- Coordinate wire gauges for long low-voltage runs
- Ensure dimmer compatibility for all cabinet-integrated circuits
Precision On-Site Scribing & Fit
Customize millwork components to the specific quirks of the renovated space.
- Apply back-cut techniques for scribing fillers to stone
- Measure gap tolerances at ceiling-to-cabinet transitions
- Shim cabinet bases using high-density composite wedges
- Clamp boxes for face-frame alignment before screw-down
- Verify 1/8-inch reveals consistently across all runs
- Cut baseboard returns for seamless cabinet transitions
- Adjust leveling feet to compensate for floor slope
- Execute precision miter cuts for multi-piece crown
- Verify reveal symmetry at plumbing fixtures
- Test for squareness in all three axes (X, Y, and Z)
Hardware, Runners & Mechanics
Configure the functional elements for lifelong smooth operation and durability.
- Verify soft-close drawer slide weight ratings (100lb+)
- Install jigs for consistent handle and knob placement
- Audit hinges for 110-degree plus opening capability
- Test internal pull-outs for clearance of open doors
- Verify stability of vertical pull-out spice racks
- Check soft-close tension for heavy trash pull-out bins
- Adjust door dampers to account for panel weight
- Confirm handle screws don't interfere with door seals
- Install silicone bumpers for silent closing points
- Apply thread-locker to heavy-use appliance handles
Finish Protection & Dust Control
Preserve the architectural finish from post-install trade damage.
- Wrap all cabinets in non-abrasive 4mil polyethylene
- Apply corrugated plastic protection to drawer faces
- Seal kickplates against floor finishing fluids
- Maintain climate control at 35-50% relative humidity
- Mark cabinets with 'No Blue Tape' warnings to avoid peel
- Block work area for high-activity flooring installation
- Inventory all loose shelves and store in protected zone
- Mask stone edges to prevent scratches during handle install
- Ensure installer shoes are covers-on in work zone
- HEPA vacuum cabinet interiors after install completion
The Master Punch & Handover
Systematically review every mechanical and aesthetic detail before project close-out.
- Perform a full-opening cycle test for every door
- Identify and mark minor finish scuffs with wax filler
- Wipe down all hinge grease and construction residue
- Level and align every door gap to 1/16-inch tolerance
- Audit operation of hidden push-to-open latches
- Ensure all interior shelving pins are seated correctly
- Remove all installer marks and temporary pencil lines
- Check lighting automation programming for cabinet zones
- Lubricate heavy slide rails if necessary
- Deliver a complete hardware and finish touch-up kit
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the industry standard for cabinet gaps and reveals?
Professional architectural millwork targets a 1/8-inch (3mm) reveal for consistent, modern looks. This requires a sub-floor level within 1/8 inch over 10 feet to maintain visual alignment across long kitchen runs.
Should cabinets or flooring be installed first?
In high-end remodels, flooring typically runs wall-to-wall first to provide a continuous level surface and moisture barrier. This prevents 'boxing in' heavy appliances and allows for easier future layout changes.
Why are shop drawings more important than architectural floor plans?
Architectural plans show intent, while shop drawings show execution, including wood species, joint details, and actual hardware clearance requirements. A contractor must sign off on shop drawings to lock in the manufacturing tolerances.