In addition to veneer core, MDF core, and architectural plywood, J. Gibson McIlvain also carries two types of marine grade plywood. When discussing marine grade plywood, the first thing we need to do is to define the term “marine grade.” Many customers mistakenly believe that … [Read more...]
Plywood Problems: Core Comparisons
Appearance is definitely a major factor when it comes to plywood, but performance is even more significant. We've previously discussed the part that the number of plies plays in determining plywood quality as well as a few basic tips for finding the quality plywood you desire. … [Read more...]
Plywood Problems: 3 Steps to Finding Perfect Plywood
In a previous post, we explained how more important than the number of plies in a sheet of plywood, the quality and application of glue helps determine the quality. It would be nice if all you had to do was ask about the formula of glue being used, and voila! You would know if … [Read more...]
Now Taking Architectural Plywood Orders
Architectural plywood panels are the crème-de-la-crème, when it comes to plywood. With exceptionally stable cores and top-of-the-line face veneers, these panels require consistency in the face veneer that meets requirements of large projects such as conference centers or hotels. … [Read more...]
Defining Terms: What “Quality Control” Means for Hardwoods, Part 2
In Part 1, we looked at what quality control means for exotic hardwoods up through the drying process. We truly believe that effective quality control begins at the source, as we evaluate the harvesting practices and overall reliability of each mill. Not only do we personally … [Read more...]
Defining Terms: What “Quality Control” Means for Hardwoods, Part 1
If there’s something we’re not ashamed to be obsessive about at J. Gibson McIlvain, it’s quality control. And it doesn’t start in our lumber yard; it starts where the lumber originates, at the source. Whether we’re sourcing domestic lumber or exotic lumber species from the other … [Read more...]
Defining Terms: What “Quality” Means for Millwork
J. Gibson McIlvain specializes in creating a wide variety of architectural millwork. Because we have a fully functional in-house millworks operation, we have full control over the level of quality millwork we offer. In addition to those designs in our current catalog, we can … [Read more...]
Defining Terms: What “Value Engineering” Means for Millwork
Value engineering. It’s important. It’s on trend. It’s environmentally friendly. But what, exactly, does it look like? Wood workers have been doing it for centuries, but some modern designers and builders have forgotten about it. In some ways, value engineering is a lost art … [Read more...]
Positives and Problems Surrounding Genuine Mahogany
The issues surrounding Genuine Mahogany may seem bleak, but they’re not without a silver lining. Between decreased availability and lower grade, the problems are quite disconcerting. At the same time, though, they are reversible — and, in the meantime, other options are … [Read more...]
Evaluating Proposed Grading Changes for Genuine Mahogany
The scenario for Genuine Mahogany definitely has its challenges, and those of us within the lumber industry have a responsibility to consider various solutions. Brainstorming is good. Ideas deserve to be considered. At the same time, though, we need to carefully evaluate each … [Read more...]
