I
nstallation of MasterSuite
®
products can be completed quickly, efficiently and accurately by a
well-trained, quality-minded installer. This manual provides basic assembly instructions for
system components and accessories. It is not, however, a substitute for hands-on training.
We recommend working side-by-side with an experienced laminate installer to “learn the ropes.”
Between two and four days of hands-on installation training is required. During this time your
new installer can ride along with an experienced laminate installer assisting with many of the
installations. The speed at which any new installer may pick up the necessary skills to complete
laminate installation on his/her own depends upon the installer’s aptitude, organizational and
carpentry skills.
We strongly recommend that training should take place at our training facility where 100% of
your installer’s time is dedicated to learning professional installation skills without distractions;
and our facilities provide a safe environment in which to practice skills and (occasionally) make
mistakes.
What about installers trained in wire closet installation or other home products?
Laminate
closet systems can be installed by wire installers. However, the product is installed quite
differently than wire systems, so the wire installer would need training in this product in order to
accurately install MasterSuite
®
. Secondly, if you have an existing installer working full-time
installing other products, please consider hiring a dedicated laminate installer. More often than
not, the wire installer’s time is completely booked already and does not have time for additional
training or installing a new product line.
The time required to install one laminate closet versus one wire closet is usually significantly
longer. This is due to several factors. First, laminate closet designs are usually more complex than
basic wire designs. The design complexity leads to large quantities of materials, which directly
translates into greater weight. Therefore, it’s going to take the installer longer to unload the
product and bring it to the installation site.
Installation of laminate closet systems is not unlike installation of kitchen and bathroom cabinetry.
It requires considerable skill in working with a multitude of power tools, wall types and fasteners.
Most walls, even in new construction, are not perfectly plumb or square, necessitating the installer
to make on-the-spot technical decisions to complete the installation.
Lastly, successful installation of MasterSuite
®
includes careful planning and execution of installation
schedules. In the section, "Average Installation Time", we have provided rough time estimates
to complete many installation tasks. Basic reach-in closets may only take 20-30 minutes for
installation. But complex walk-in closets with many towers, upgrades and an island may take
4-6 hours for completion.
Questions in the shop or onsite regarding laminate installation should be directed to your
ClosetMaid Regional Manager.
1. INTRODUCTION
3
Introduction to Laminate Installation
