Creating proper millwork shop drawings is essential for the successful fabrication and installation of custom woodwork elements (e.g. cabinets, paneling, built-in furniture, etc.). Such drawings ensure that all parties involved share a unified vision, which minimizes errors, achieves the desired result, and streamlines the construction process.
What are millwork shop drawings?
Shop drawings enable construction of what was designed. Millwork shop drawings are a more technical and detailed version of the architect-of-record’s millwork designs found in the architect’s contract drawings. The shops provide elaborate information about the design, dimensions, and fabrication requirements.
Millwork shop drawings are created by the contractor, subcontractor, vendor, manufacturer, or other entity that is responsible for the millwork construction. The “Means Illustrated Construction Dictionary Third Edition Unabridged” defines millwork as:
All the building products made of wood that are produced in a planing mill, such as moldings, door and window frames, doors, windows, blinds, and stairs. Millwork does not include flooring, ceilings, and siding.
A typical scenario is:
Architectural contract drawings call for custom cabinetry in a house. A cabinet shop is then hired as a contractor to create and install the custom cabinets. The cabinet shop therefore has to submit shop drawings of the cabinets to the architect-of-record, for his review and approval, before the cabinets are created and installed.
Here’s a concise guide to developing proper millwork shop drawings.
1. Understand the Project Requirements
Begin by thoroughly reviewing the architectural plans and specifications. Engage with the client, architect, and construction contractor to grasp the project’s functional and aesthetic goals. Clear communication at this stage sets the foundation for accurate and satisfactory outcomes.
2. Conduct Accurate Field Measurements
Perform on-site measurements to verify the existing conditions of the spaces the millwork pieces will be installed. This step is crucial, especially in renovation projects, to ensure that the new millwork fits seamlessly into the space. Accurate field measurements prevent costly modifications during installation.
3. Develop Detailed Drawings
Utilize Computer Aided Design (CAD) software to create comprehensive shop drawings that include:
- Plan Views: Top-down representations showing the layout and placement of millwork components within the space.
- Elevations: Front and side views illustrating the height and design details of the millwork.
- Sections: Cross-sectional views revealing internal construction and assembly methods.
- Details: Enlarged views of intricate areas, such as joinery, moldings, and hardware placements.
Specify dimensions, materials, finishes, and hardware to provide a comprehensive guide for fabrication.
4. Specify Materials and Finishes
Clearly define the materials to be used, including wood species, veneers, laminates, and finishes, in the title block or notes of the drawings, if such is not already included in the plans, elevations, sections, and details. The same is true for hardware components like hinges, handles, and drawer slides.
Ensure all such aligns with the design intent and functional requirements called out in the architect’s contract drawings and specifications.
5. Ensure Compliance with Standards
Verify the shop drawings adhere to the relevant standards. The relevant standards are provided by the architect-of-record. These standards are usually found in the architect’s contract drawings and specifications.
But there may be instances that require verification that the drawings adhere to relevant building codes and industry standards, such as those set by the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI). Such compliance guarantees that the millwork meets safety, quality, and performance criteria, when necessary.
6. Review and Revise
Once the shop drawings are completed they then need to be submitted to the architect-of-record for his review. The architect reviews the shops to make sure they are in conformance to his design or any other standards he previously specified.
In the creation of the shop drawings, mistakes may be found in the architect’s design. The review is when such are made known to the architect-of-record.
When all parties involved are satisfied with the review, the architect-of-record will stamp the shops as “Approved for Construction”, and construction can begin. The construction process consists of fabrication of the millwork, and then installation of the millwork. Typcially the millwork is fabricated off-site.
This collaborative review and revision process allows for adjustments to be made before fabrication, ensuring the final product aligns with the desired results.
7. Coordinate with Fabricators
Maintain open communication with the fabrication team to address any questions or clarifications needed during production. This proactive approach helps prevent misunderstandings and errors.
8. Monitor Installation
Once fabrication is complete, the shop drawing process is also complete. Installation is usually a separate task not noted in the shop drawings. The construction contractor is usually responsible for installation, under the oversight of the architect-of-record. The architect oversees the millwork installation to ensure that the millwork components align with the drawings. The architect can also address any discrepancies promptly to maintain project timelines and quality.
Conclusion
By meticulously following these steps, you can create millwork shop drawings that serve as an effective roadmap from concept to completion, ensuring a smooth workflow and a high-quality finished product.
Contact
For professional assistance in developing precise millwork shop drawings, consider partnering with us at DraftingServices.com. Our expertise can help streamline the process and ensure that your project meets all specifications and standards.