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...]
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...]
