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...]
Understanding Lumber Extractives & Color Change, Part 4
Do you have a love-hate relationship with the changing color of wood? Hopefully, as you grow in your understanding of what contributes to the color-change process, you’ll become less frustrated and more appreciative of this natural process — as well as able to intelligently plan … [Read more...]
Understanding Lumber Extractives & Color Change, Part 3
From weeping sap (see Part 1) to oils and tannins (see Part 2), many extractives contribute to the changing colors of lumber — and the difficulty associated with so-called “color matching.” Whenever we’re dealing with organic products, the issue of natural variation comes up; but … [Read more...]
Understanding Lumber Extractives & Color Change, Part 2
When you use real wood, extractives are often part of the deal for better or for worse. When you know what kinds of issues to anticipate, you’ll be more effective at compensating for the issues these chemicals can cause in both reclaimed and freshly milled lumber (see Part … [Read more...]
What Tropical Hardwood Decking Is Not
When you purchase tropical hardwood decking, we realize that you’re making quite an investment. But you still need to make sure your expectations are in line with reality, and a big part of that is realizing that decking boards are not finished products. Sure, they may seem as … [Read more...]
Understanding Lumber Extractives & Color Change, Part 1
Did you know that all lumber species have various amounts and types of chemicals or extractives that help make the wood weather and rot resistant? Some extractives even make it tasty — for instance, the sap that comes from the Sugar Maple is used to make maple syrup! Some … [Read more...]
Defining Lumber Industry Terms: Marine-Grade Plywood, Part 2
If you were a little disappointed when you learned about the minimum standards of “marine-grade plywood” from Part 1, we hope this follow-up post will help equip you to take the extra steps necessary in order to confirm that the standards you require will be met by the … [Read more...]
Defining Lumber Industry Terms: Marine-Grade Plywood, Part 1
Sourcing quality hardwood plywood is difficult enough; when you get into marine-grade plywood, defining terms and determining quality can be even more significant. Throughout the lumber industry, the term “marine grade” can be used by manufacturers to mean a variety of things. … [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...]
