15 Built-in Terms to Know Before Talking to Your Contractor/Designer

Before you start a built-in project, knowing the key terms helps you and your contractor/designer stay on the same page—reducing rework and keeping the budget under control. This guide explains 15 commonly used terms in plain English, with quick example questions you can ask. We’ll cover structure materials like HMR, door finishes Laminate/PU/PET, handleless systems J-pull/Gola, plus site measurement and soft-close hardware so you can approve production with confidence.

1) Site Measurement (on-site survey)

Meaning: Verify actual dimensions, wall/floor level, power/water/duct points, door swings, and condo rules.Why it matters: Prevents errors before production; ensures cabinets fit real walls.

2) Plan / Elevation / Section

Meaning: Plan = layout & dimensions; Elevation = front view; Section = cut-through details.Why it matters: Aligns every dimension before production/installation.How to ask: “Can I have Plan/Elevation/Section with all sizes and heights?”

3) Shop Drawing (production drawing)

Meaning: Detailed technical drawing for the factory (lines, sizes, parts, hardware).Why it matters: Used for cutting, assembly, and QC

4) Carcass (cabinet box/structure)

Meaning: Internal structure that carries load and mounts hardware.Why it matters: Strength, moisture resistance, durability.

5) Board Materials: PB / MDF / HMR / Plaswood (uPVC)

Meaning: PB = particle board; MDF; HMR = high-moisture-resistant board; Plaswood = waterproof uPVC.Why it matters: Big differences in moisture resistance, weight, and cost.

6) Edge Banding (ABS/PVC edge)

Meaning: Protective edging that seals board edges and resists impact/moisture.Why it matters: Neater look and longer lifespan

7) Finishes: Melamine / Laminate / PU Paint / PET–NANO / Veneer

Meaning: Surface options for doors/visible panels.Why it matters: Affects look, care, and cost.

8) Handleless Systems: J-pull / GOLA / Push-to-Open

Meaning: No visible handles (finger groove, Gola rail, push latches).Why it matters: Clean lines; consider finger clearance and dust.

9) Hardware: Soft-Close Hinges & Undermount Slides (load rating)

Meaning: Doors/drawers close softly; undermount slides are hidden.Why it matters: Daily feel and durability.

10) Leveling Feet & Toe-Kick/Plinth (base & leveling)

Meaning: Adjustable feet and the front base panel.Why it matters: Perfect levels; protects from moisture/dust under cabinets.

11) Scribe / Filler / Reveal

Meaning: Scribe/filler pieces finish tight to walls/columns; reveal = intentional shadow gap.Why it matters: Crisp finish with no awkward gaps.

12) Countertops: Quartz / Solid Surface / Porcelain Slab (thickness & edge)

Meaning: Top materials and front edge profiles (eased/bevel/mitre).Why it matters: Scratch/heat resistance, repairability, and cost.

13) Backsplash (splash panel)

Meaning: Wall surface behind the counter (full slab, tile, or same as the top).Why it matters: Easy cleaning and cohesive design.

14) Ventilation Clearance & Ducting

Meaning: Air gaps around fridge/oven/hood and the duct route.Why it matters: Appliance lifespan and odor control.

15) Run Meter & Tolerance

Meaning: Run meter = linear pricing unit; tolerance = acceptable deviation on site.Why it matters: Budget control and realistic quality expectations.

Already have a plan or photos? Add us on LINE and send them over—we’ll help you outline the scope and a quick ballpark budget so you can move forward with confidence.