AWS Custom Grade Question

Archive of Older Topics Archive - Specifications Discussions #4
1

I am out of my office and don’t have my AWS book with me, so if anyone has a moment to help me…
The contractor has submitted blind dado construction for the cabinets with glue and staples and blind dado on unfinished ends and glue and blind dado with clamps on finished ends. I want to verify this is acceptable for Custom cabinet construction. Any assistance is appreciated!

2

Robyn,

I would contact Brad Roa
brad@woodinst.com
or
Tom Cavanaugh
thomas@woodinst.com

Both are Directors of Architectural Services for the Woodwork Institute

Brad handles So. Cal, Arizona & So. Nevada

I you are unable to reach either of them, you can call me at 909.481.9941

3

Thanks Richard - I emailed Brad.

4

Robin,

I would say yes.
AWS lists 3 types of dado joints: through, blind, and stop. Blind being a variation on the “through” dado with applied edges “stopping” or concealing dado groove.

5

Section 10, Paragraph 4.4.20.5, JOINERY requires DADOES, LOCK JOINTS, PLOWS, RABBETS, DOWELS, DOWEL SCREWS, or BISCUIT-JOINING PLATES.
Paragraph 4.4.4.5, DADOES or LOCK JOINTS shall NOT run though the edgeband. That would make all dadoes and rabbet joints required to be “blind” and don’t show from the front.

6

Robin,

I would definitely wait for an official response on this. The reason that I say this is that the standard lists all materials specifically including the use of pin nails and staples.

And staples are only mentioned with square shouldered construction which is only acceptable in economy.

The overall construction system may be acceptable - but the use of staples may disqualify it. Staples are usually making up for something not quite done right, they are not necessarily increasing the quality.

You might consider putting in the requirement for the Quality Assurance inspections, then AWS takes care of this directly themselves in their reviews.

7

Robin,

I agree with William regarding stapling and I would follow Brad’s recommendations.

If the Project is in either So. Cal, Arizona or So. Nevada I would reference WI Certified Compliance or Monitored Compliance.
I would confirm this with Brad as he would probably be doing the inspections

If you have additional questions you can conact me at richard.matteo@stvinc.com or 213.219.3605

Richard L. Matteo, AIA, CSI, CCS
STV Incorporated
Los Angeles, CA

I am also on the Board of Directors for the Woodwork Institute

8

William’s advice is well taken. Section 10, Paragraph 4.4.20.4.2 describes MECHANICAL FASTENERS for cabinet BODY as:
At EXPOSED SURFACES, staples, screws, or T-nails are not permitted. Also Paragraph 4.4.1.9 describes how filler may and may not be used. It is NOT ALLOWED for Premium grade. (so you could not fill a staple hole anyhow)