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...]
Shifting Standards and Long-Term Effects
If anything is clear about the issues surrounding Genuine Mahogany, it’s that something has to give. While change is needed, not everyone agrees about what, exactly, needs to change. Not only short-term impact, but long-term effects of proposed solutions, need to be considered. … [Read more...]
Re-evaluating the Bigger-Is-Better Mindset
A current trend in the lumber industry mirrors the general American ideology that encompasses almost everything except our perspectives regarding our physical bodies: The bigger, the better. People want wood that’s wider and longer than ever before. And it’s not just for those … [Read more...]
Distinguishing Among Mahoganies
In the wake of Genuine Mahogany’s decreased availability and quality, many customers are looking for alternatives. African Mahogany has long been considered a viable alternative, but it’s currently experiencing a different kind of shortage. Once you understand the distinctions … [Read more...]
A Look at African Mahogany Alternatives
With the current shortage of Genuine Mahogany and concerns about quality and grading, one positive side effect is the increased availability and popularity of African alternatives — including, but not limited to, African Mahoganies. Other species that produce long, wide, and … [Read more...]
New Insight on Due Diligence – Lacey Act Compliance
When it comes to Lacey Act compliance, the waters can be more than a little bit muddy. Especially since ensuring your lumber is FSC certified does not equate “due diligence,” then anything to clear up the meaning of the Lacey Act’s requirements can be quite helpful. The Gibson … [Read more...]
Distinguishing Between Plywood Core Types
After literally hundreds of years of building a reputation as a purveyor of high-quality solid hardwoods, several years ago J. Gibson McIlvain ventured into the world of hardwood plywood. A popular manufactured lumber product, plywood can greatly vary in quality. After hearing … [Read more...]
Tropical Hardwood Decking Species: Know Your Options, Part 3
In our first two posts (see Parts 1 & 2), we took a survey of several top-selling tropical hardwood decking species — first Ipe and Cumaru and then Red Balau, Jatoba, and Tigerwood. We’ll be looking at three more options in this post: Massaranduba, Garapa, and Cambara. While … [Read more...]
Tropical Hardwood Decking Species: Know Your Options, Part 2
While Ipe is certainly our top-selling tropical hardwood decking species — followed undeniably by Cumaru — those two species (see Part 1) are certainly not your only options. Chances are, like most of our customers, you will choose one of those premium species. However, we … [Read more...]
