A long-time supplier of premium hardwood and softwood lumber, J. Gibson McIlvain is a still relatively new player in the hardwood plywood market. Our previous hesitancy to enter the market was the fact that the only plywood we could find failed to meet our high standards of quality. In recent years, however, we have been able to form relationships with manufacturers whose products live up to the quality for which the McIlvain name is well known throughout the lumber industry.
Solid Cores
The architectural plywood panels we supply are uniquely high-quality combinations of rock solid cores and the finest face veneers. First, let’s discuss the stable core.
Even though appearance is important, without a stable core, even the most attractive panel is a problem. No matter how high-end the veneer, with a low-quality core, the plywood will fail to stand the test of time. Warping or delaminating can occur either during installation or after the job appears to be complete. However, with the right manufacturing process that refuses to cut corners, a dependable, consistent product is possible. Durability and high performance are the result.
Impeccable Appearance
As important as a stable core may be, it really wouldn’t have much value without a supremely consistent and beautiful face veneer and potential for custom orders. While we keep many standard species in our plywood inventory and can ship them out within days of your placing an order, we can also source specialty species and cuts. Of course, the lead time required is a bit more, but the sky is really the limit!
We’ve been able to source unusual species such as Koa or Italian Olivewood and fulfill requests for specific cuts such as bookmatched or quartersawn. When we combine our network of premium lumber sources with our millwork expertise and a manufacturer’s quality core, we’re able to deliver a one-of-a-kind product that is sure to meet the highest standards of both beauty and durability.
Predictable Quality
Plywood pricing is generally quite haphazard and doesn’t seem to relate directly to the quality of panel or core. The reason? The murky waters of plywood grading make it difficult — if not impossible — to make apt comparisons and informed decisions. Instead of starting with a grade description, you really have to start with price and basically assume that you get what you pay for. If you don’t want to spend the money for high-quality lumber, you won’t get it. Instead of agonizing over whether your plywood will really meet your needs, you can purchase it from a name that you can trust.
J. Gibson McIlvain has a long-held reputation for sourcing and selling only the best lumber and lumber products. We’re pleased to finally be able to include plywood in our inventory and look forward to discussing your plywood needs and fulfilling your custom plywood orders.
