millwork

Millwork refers to finished wood products produced in a mill or workshop for incorporation into building interiors and exteriors. It encompasses a wide range of architectural and decorative components installed as part of the interior fit-out, including doors and door frames, window casings and sills, crown moulding, baseboards, chair rails, decorative trim, paneling, wainscoting, stairs and balustrades, and built-in cabinetry and casework.

Materials used in millwork include solid hardwoods and softwoods, as well as engineered woods such as plywood, medium-density fibreboard (MDF), and particleboard, often with veneers. Finishes may be applied in the mill before delivery. Components are machined with various tools, including planers, routers, shapers, and CNC machines. Tolerances, moisture content, and quality of joints are controlled to ensure precise fit and durable finishes. Common joinery methods include mortise-and-tenon, dados, rabbets, dowels, and tongue-and-groove connections.

Production and installation typically occur in architectural wood shops where shop drawings are created, parts are profiled and assembled, and surfaces are finished prior to site delivery. On site, millwork is installed and aligned in coordination with doors, hardware, ceilings, and other trades. Pre-hung doors, custom cabinetry, and built-ins may be delivered as complete packages to expedite installation.

Applications span residential, commercial, and institutional projects. Millwork is often distinguished from generic carpentry by its factory-produced, standardized, or semi-custom components designed to meet architectural specifications. Sustainability considerations include responsibly sourced timber and low-emission finishes, with certifications such as FSC or PEFC aiding procurement.