Measure the surfaces that affect fabrication

Overall width and height are not enough for custom cladding. Record openings, corners, skirting, ceiling levels, column locations, reveals, floor changes and every visible service that passes through the finish.

For renovation work, measured information should control final fabrication even when architectural drawings are available. Drawings remain useful for coordination, but the wall that exists on site is what the panels must fit.

Use a consistent measurement reference

Choose a datum for floor level and a vertical reference for each elevation. Dimensions taken from different uncontrolled points can create contradictions when shop drawings are assembled.

For long walls, divide measurements into bays and check diagonals where squareness matters. For columns, note centreline position as well as diameter or face size so relationships to walls and carpet rows remain accurate.

Make shop drawings answer installation questions

A useful shop drawing shows more than the decorative front. Elevations identify panel numbers and joints; sections show subframe, cavity and fixing depth; enlarged details explain corners, bases, capitals and access panels.

Material names, finish codes and revision numbers should be visible on the same drawing set. If installers need to guess which drawing supersedes another, the documentation system has failed.

Approve samples and drawings together

A physical finish sample controls color and texture, while the shop drawing controls size and assembly. Both should be approved before mass production. For complex geometry, a mock-up can verify the relationship between joints, lighting and decorative relief.

Keep approvals traceable by revision. Export projects benefit from matching panel labels and crate labels to the exact drawing numbers used during installation.

Project checklist

• Measure openings, corners and services
• Use one floor and wall datum
• Check diagonals and bay dimensions
• Show elevations and sections together
• Issue finish codes and revision numbers
• Match panel labels to shop drawings

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