The Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) is currently creating a suite of new sections for custom architectural woodwork. The creation of the new AWI sections is expected to continue for the next two years and will define and address each aspect of the architectural woodwork industry. AWI has adopted and numerically aligned each woodwork standard to CSI’s (Construction Specification Institute) 2016 MasterFormat® numbering system.
Current Reference
While the Architectural Woodwork Standards, Edition 2 (2014) (AWS) remains AWI’s current and recognized woodwork reference, interim specification language recommended by AWI is as follows: “All work in this section shall comply with AWI’s published standards (latest edition) for grades of architectural woodwork indicated for construction, finishes, installation, and other requirements.”
First Standard
In Quarter 1, 2018, AWI will be vetting its first section, the new AWI 0620 Finish Carpentry/Installation Standard through a balanced industry canvass group in adherence to AWI’s approved American National Standards Institute (ANSI) process. Following the canvass and balloting process, AWI will undergo an initial compliance audit administered by ANSI. Later in 2018, the AWI 0620 Finish Carpentry/Installation Standard is expected to be released and ready for use by design professionals and specifiers in planning upcoming projects.
Second Standard
AWI’s National Testing Center (NTC) in Americus, GA has completed extensive testing of base and wall cabinet joinery methods and various materials to ascertain integrity and functionality performance outcomes in support of the new AWI 0641 – Architectural Wood Casework Standard‘s development. In the coming months, the NTC will be conducting tests on various other drawer materials and joinery methods. Additionally, the NTC will be testing load capacity and span deflection values of different shelf materials common to architectural casework.
Casework Performance
In the near term, AWI’s Technical Committee is analyzing test data outcomes to establish various casework performance duty levels. Each casework performance duty level is intended to provide specifiers and design professionals with options for selecting the appropriate casework relative to that product’s intended use, its installed application, and function over time. Options and choices for the product’s desired aesthetic qualities are defined and specified as premium, custom, and economy grade. These grades determine a product’s appearance and the permissible manufacturing tolerances within each of the three aesthetic grades.
Multiple Platforms
The next generation of AWI sections are being developed for accessibility in multiple digital, mobile, and desktop platforms. A simplified numeric format outlines the new sections’ content while information is straightforward in presentation and easy to reference.
While AWI is changing the woodwork industry, the association remains at your service to provide technical assistance and support of the AWS, Edition 2 (2014). For technical assistance or more information about this topic, including participation in the review process, please contact staff at help@awinet.org.
The Architectural Woodwork Institute has produced and collaborated on the development of Standards in accordance with its mission from its founding in 1953 to the present day. www.awinet.org
Founded in 1918, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is a private non-profit organization that administers and coordinates the U.S. voluntary standardization and conformity assessment system. www.ansi.org
