There always seems to be so many different names for the same thing, and this is true in the closet organizer and cabinet industry. Some names used interchangeably are Fillers, Cleats, and Miscellaneous material. In this article we will attempt to explain the difference between these items.
Although the following terms and example are widely used within the closet and cabinetry industry, Sherwood Shelving might use and call these items differently. We will indicate when these differences occur.
In cabinetry, fillers are used to fill gaps or spaces between cabinets, walls, or other structures to create a seamless, polished look. They play a crucial role in ensuring that cabinetry installations look cohesive and professionally finished. Here’s a breakdown of their uses and types:
- Side Fillers: These are used to fill gaps between cabinets and walls or between cabinets and other vertical surfaces. They ensure that there’s no unsightly space between the cabinetry and the adjacent wall.
- Toe Kick Fillers: Located at the bottom of the cabinets, these fillers cover the space between the cabinet base and the floor. They often conceal the cabinet’s structural components and provide a finished look.
- Above-Cabinet Fillers: Used to fill gaps between the top of the cabinets and the ceiling. They can be simple panels or decorative moldings that provide a clean transition.
- Interior Fillers: Used inside cabinets to divide space or to adjust for irregularities in wall alignment. These can include adjustable shelves or additional panels.
- Aesthetic Continuity: Fillers help to create a uniform and professional appearance by eliminating gaps that might otherwise disrupt the visual flow of the cabinetry.
- Accommodating Imperfections: They can adjust for uneven walls or misalignments in cabinetry installation, ensuring a snug and accurate fit.
- Structural Support: In some cases, fillers provide additional support or stabilization for the cabinetry, especially in cases where the cabinetry does not reach the end of a wall or other structures.
- Flexibility: They allow for adjustments in the installation process, making it easier to fit cabinets into varying spaces and configurations.
- Measurement: Proper measurement is crucial to ensure that fillers fit correctly. Gaps should be measured accurately before cutting and installing fillers.
- Matching Materials: Fillers should ideally match the cabinetry in terms of material, color, and finish to ensure a cohesive look.
- Finish Work: After installation, fillers often require finishing work such as sanding, painting, or staining to blend seamlessly with the surrounding cabinetry.
Overall, fillers are essential for achieving a clean, professional finish in cabinetry installations, ensuring that all gaps are covered and the final appearance is sleek and polished.
Cleats are horizontal or vertical strips of wood or other materials used for various purposes during the installation and construction of cabinets. They provide structural support, help with alignment, and aid in securing cabinets to walls or other components. Here’s a closer look at their roles and types:
- Structural Support: Cleats help reinforce the structure of cabinets, particularly in areas where additional strength is needed. They can support heavy cabinets or provide extra stability to ensure the cabinets remain secure.
- Alignment and Leveling: Cleats assist in aligning cabinets properly, ensuring they are level and positioned correctly. This is crucial for a professional-looking installation and for proper cabinet function.
- Securing Cabinets: They are used to anchor cabinets to the wall or other structural elements. This helps prevent cabinets from tipping or shifting, which is important for both safety and longevity.
- Hiding Gaps: In some cases, cleats can be used to cover gaps between cabinets and walls, providing a finished appearance.
- Horizontal Cleats: These are installed horizontally along the wall or inside cabinets. They are commonly used to support upper cabinets and keep them aligned with the wall.
- Vertical Cleats: Installed vertically, vertical cleats often help in mounting cabinets securely to the wall, especially when dealing with taller or heavier cabinets.
- Back Cleats: These are mounted on the back of cabinets and are used to support the cabinet against the wall. They can also help to keep cabinets flush with the wall surface.
- Shelf Cleats: In some cabinetry setups, cleats are used to support shelves. These are usually smaller and mounted within the cabinet to hold shelves in place.
- Proper Placement: Ensure cleats are placed where they will provide the most support. For example, horizontal cleats should be level and securely anchored to the wall studs to support upper cabinets.
- Use of Anchors: When mounting cleats to drywall or other surfaces, use appropriate anchors to ensure a secure hold. Wall studs are the ideal anchor points for maximum stability.
- Material and Size: Choose cleats made from sturdy materials like solid wood or metal, and ensure they are sized appropriately for the weight and size of the cabinets they will support.
- Leveling: Always use a level when installing cleats to ensure cabinets are aligned correctly and avoid uneven installations.
Cleats are an essential part of cabinet installation, providing both structural support and ensuring a secure, professional finish. Proper installation of cleats contributes to the overall stability and durability of the cabinetry.
In cabinetry, miscellaneous wood materials refer to various types of wood products and components that are used in cabinet construction and installation but don’t fall into the primary categories of cabinetry components like panels, doors, or drawer boxes. These materials often serve specific functions or are used for specialized purposes. Here are some examples:
- Edge Banding: Thin strips of wood or veneer used to cover the exposed edges of plywood or particle board. Edge banding provides a finished look and helps protect the edges from damage.
- Cleats: Horizontal or vertical wooden strips used to provide support and stability to cabinets, especially for mounting or securing them to walls.
- Back Panels: These can be thin or thick panels of Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL) or MDF that form the back of cabinets, helping to add rigidity and prevent items from falling out. Although we’ve included backs here, Sherwood Shelving has a separate category for backs.
- Blocking: Wood pieces used to add support or reinforcement behind cabinet faces or in wall installations. Blocking helps to secure cabinets firmly in place.
- Molding: Decorative wood trim used around cabinets, including crown molding (at the top), base molding (at the bottom), and other types of trim that enhance the aesthetic appeal of the cabinetry.
- Scribe Molding: Thin wood strips used to cover gaps between cabinets and uneven walls. They are cut and shaped to fit precisely, giving a seamless appearance. This also falls into the category of Fillers.
- Filler Panels: Panels used to fill gaps between cabinets or between cabinets and walls. They help achieve a uniform look and can be custom-sized to fit specific spaces.
- Partition Panels: Wood panels used inside cabinets to divide space and provide organization. These panels can be adjustable or fixed.
- Bumpers and Pads: Small wood or rubber pieces attached to cabinet doors or drawers to prevent them from banging against the cabinet frame, reducing noise and wear.
- Spacer Blocks: Small wood blocks used to create spacing between components during installation, ensuring proper alignment and fit.
- Hangers and Supports: Wood or metal components used to hold or support other parts of the cabinetry, such as shelves or hanging rods.
- Functionality: These materials contribute to the structural integrity and functionality of cabinets, ensuring they perform well and last longer.
- Aesthetics: They help achieve a polished, professional appearance by covering gaps, adding decorative elements, and providing a finished look.
- Customization: They allow for customization and flexibility in cabinet design, helping to adapt standard components to fit specific spaces and design preferences.
In summary, miscellaneous wood materials are crucial for the complete assembly and installation of cabinetry. They enhance both the functionality and appearance of cabinets, helping to achieve a high-quality, customized finish.
