What Is Millwork Vs. Casework?

The terms millwork and casework are often used interchangeably. But, in reality, they refer to different things. If you’re currently in the process of designing or constructing a home or building, having a clear understanding of each term will be helpful as you communicate with your team to make aesthetic, functional, and financial decisions. 

While millwork and casework both fall under the broad umbrella of carpentry and both contribute to a building’s aesthetics and function, each one has its own unique characteristics. Below, we’ll define millwork and casework, consider the differences between them, and look at some considerations to keep in mind when choosing one or the other. 

If you still have questions after reading this post, a friendly and knowledgeable STAR Building Materials representative will be more than happy to further advise you in person. 

What Is Casework?

Casework refers to box-shaped furniture such as bookshelves, cupboards and cabinets, storage spaces, drawers, and more. It is mass-produced off-site (known as modular carpentry) and then delivered to construction sites by the manufacturer for final assembly and installation. 

Casework is manufactured to standard sizes and designs, but designers and builders can select from a variety of prefabricated options to get the aesthetics and function they are looking for. While casework is usually mounted to walls or other structural elements, modular casework is moveable and can offer additional flexibility. 

What Is Millwork?

Millwork technically refers to any wooden product produced at a lumber mill. However, when designers and builders talk about millwork, they’re usually referring to aesthetic and functional elements that are custom-built into a home or building. Common examples of millwork include custom display cases, built-in shelves, crown mouldings, mantels, and trims. 

Differences Between Casework and Millwork

While casework and millwork can both encompass things like bookshelves, cupboards, drawers, and storage spaces, the main difference between them is that millwork is custom-made while casework is not. 

Other differences include:

• Millwork is more expensive, while casework is often more affordable (but also more generic). 
• Casework is consistent and repeatable, but it may not exactly fit the measurements of your space, whereas millwork always will. 
• Millwork is usually created using high-quality materials, while the materials used for casework may be of lower quality. 
• Casework may be easier to relocate or otherwise adapt in the future than millwork, which is permanently built into a space. 

Millwork takes longer to build than casework takes to assemble and install. 

Considerations for Choosing Casework or Millwork

When deciding between casework or millwork for your specific circumstances, consider the following:

• Your budget
• Your time restraints
• The measurements and aesthetics of your space
• Future plans for the space
• The longevity and quality you are hoping for

Millwork at STAR

At STAR Building Materials in Winnipeg, we have all the quality products you’ll need to bring your custom millwork vision to life. From door and window trims to railings, baseboards, accessories, and specialty lumber products, our team will be there to ensure that nothing gets overlooked. We look forward to working with you!