Architectural Woodwork Standards published

The Architectural Woodwork Standards, a resource manual reflecting a three-year effort by the Architectural Woodwork Institute, Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada, and the Woodwork Institute, was recently published.

The first edition of the Architectural Woodwork Standards is intended to simplify and clarify guidelines, information and principles required for fabrication, finishing and installation of architectural woodwork. It also provides design professionals with a logical facile means to comprehensively specify woodwork elements.

"Recognizing the value and importance of the "Quality Standards Illustrated" and the "Manual of Millwork" for so many decades, we felt it was time to combine the information into one replacement publication," says Michael Bell, president of Kentucky Millwork and a member of the Joint Standards Committee responsible for researching and developing the new standards. "We also revitalized the format in order to make it easier and more convenient to use."

The manual includes complete compliance criteria to ensure that all millwork manufacturers are competing equally when bidding on projects and they are obligated to perform work of equal quality. The standards, as in both previous publications, encompass three grades of quality: economy, custom and premium. The manual also includes a comprehensive glossary of terms.

The new Architectural Woodwork Standards become effective Oct. 1. At that point, if contract documents state a project be specified in accordance with the "Quality Standards Illustrated" or "Manual of Millwork," then the AWS takes precedence.

Copies of the new Architectural Woodwork Standards can be ordered at www.awinet.org.