What are Q12 Certified Legacy Cabinets?

Okay, we’re finally going to answer the question everyone’s been asking us. Since launching our re-branded look at KBIS 2018 in Orlando, we’ve been talking a lot about the Q12 standard. But, what is it?

Mission

Simply put, Q12 stands for quality 12. To break this concept down further, Q12 is a combination of 12 significant standards of quality. But, how is this relevant? To fully achieve Q12 eligibility, a cabinet must meet twelve unique standards of quality - and all Fabuwood cabinets surely do.

Understanding kitchen cabinet quality doesn’t have to be a mystery. Once you know what to look for, you’ll be able to identify quality cabinets. As a savvy buyer, you need to be aware of what makes a quality cabinet, and what you may be sacrificing if you choose cabinets with lesser standards. Therefore, you should trust your taste, but also make sure standards are applied throughout production, to guarantee your kitchen that will maintain its beauty and efficiency for years. Let's take a look at what Fabuwood cabinets consist of...

Quality Sourced Lumber

This Q12 standard requires the use of carefully selected top-grade lumber, ensuring the finest and most dependable kitchen cabinets. To meet this requirement, a cabinetry company must implement a rigorous inspection process to assure that only first-class products are built.

Pro Touch Technique

To fully permeate a Q12 assessment, expert finishing methods are required to heavily influence first impressions and assure a lasting finish that is easy to maintain. A cabinet finished with paints or stains from renowned brands will create a durable, simple to clean product that will hold its beauty for years.

Dovetail Construction in legacy cabinets

Another important facet of Q12 legacy cabinets is the required use of dovetail construction for a build that is secure, strong and long-lasting. This process involves plywood side panels that perfectly interlock with a solid wood face frame through corresponding dovetail grooves.

Anti-Warp Structures

To maintain a maximum level of stability that preserves a shelf’s longevity, these metal shelf clips assure sturdiness and durability. With this feature your shelves are sure to stand the test of time.

Metal Shelf Clips

For a cabinet to receive complete Q12 legacy cabinets entitlement, wood must be used to help maintain structural integrity. To ensure a unified and organic design build, manufacturing with wooden corner blocks will maintain the purity of an all-wood cohesive construction.

Solid Back Builds

For superior structural longevity, this Q12 feature requires that the back of a cabinet is constructed from one piece of solid half-inch plywood. To fulfill this standard, a company should manufacture cabinet backs with a strong and single piece of plywood ensuring durable strength and dimensional stability.

Flush Fit Frames

In order to be considered Q12 compliant, a cabinet must have flush inner frames that provide an attractive appearance while giving added dimension to the internal area. Q12 legacy cabinets must display prime craftsmanship with flat surface top and bottom interior planes that result in convenient and practical usage.

Finished Interiors

Treated and finished cabinet interiors are another significant feature of Q12 as they produce a clear statement of quality and attention to detail. As opposed to manufacturing with an applied lining, top treatment techniques create a refined and durable design that is free of bubbling, peeling and chipping.

Soft-Closing Action

Another great characteristic of the Q12 qualification is the use of compact hinges with built-in, soft-close mechanism. Using the smooth-running capability and soft closing action of Blum’s tandem plus blumotion hinges, provides an impeccably gentle and fluid cabinet function.

Fluid Full-Extension

Cabinets built with smooth full-extension glides guarantee an enhanced running action that maximizes storage to its full capacity and ensures Q12 eligibility. Cabinets manufactured with Blum’s tandem plus runners and soft-closing technology, precisely utilize space while also preventing damage and depreciation.

EZ Level Drawer Fronts

To ensure proper door alignment and function, a Q12 cabinet requires an effortless system utilizing a degree of mechanical precision for installing perfectly positioned drawer faces. Using circular discs that allow for easy 3/8” adjustments in any direction, result in a Q12 cabinet that achieves an aesthetically graceful balance.

Sealed Signature

The final Q12 metric requires a thorough review at each manufacturing stage to ensure the completed product meets the provisions specified in the quality assurance system. Upon factory exit, a stamp of approval is given to show a company’s commitment to quality control from the very first level of Q1 to the final Q12 stage, thus guaranteeing a superior and immaculate end product.

Let us know if you have any questions about Q12 cabinetry in the comment section below!