In Part 1, we explained why African sawmills simply don’t produce 4/4 African hardwoods. Now we’re getting to the part that’s more practical for you as a builder: your options. No matter what you choose, we’re here to make your wishes our reality. But we also believe in making … [Read more...]
Lumber Thickness and African Hardwoods, Part 1
Did you know that lumber thickness is in many ways a matter of preference and market trends? While the thicknesses you consider “standard” may be difficult to come by in some lumber species, those commonly accepted norms might not be all that important after all. When you’re … [Read more...]
Lumber Drying, 102
In Lumber Drying 101, we examined the benefits of proper drying as well as pros and cons of kiln drying. Here at J. Gibson McIlvain Lumber, we use a time-tested drying process that leads to optimal lumber stability. Since quality is our main priority, we’re willing to take the … [Read more...]
Lumber Drying, 101
Organic and hygroscopic, wood moves in predictable ways and requires careful drying. Basically performing as a bundle of straws, wood absorbs and releases moisture in its environment through capillary action. As the surrounding moisture level increases, the fibers swell, causing … [Read more...]
Color-Matching Lumber, Demystified
Are you the type who has to have a very precise color match, like I am? Sometimes I can even get pretty obsessive about it. In our day of Pantone color matching, working with organic products like wood can be a bit frustrating. Like most of life’s disappointments, though, we can … [Read more...]
Sapele: Verifiable & Sustainable
Sapele - A Verifiable & Sustainable Alternative to Genuine Mahogany. In addition to its stability, availability and appearance, Sapele is a highly verifiable, sustainable species — a quality that makes it an excellent alternative to Genuine Mahogany — as well as a great … [Read more...]
Avoiding Installation Issues with Ipe Decking, Part 3
Along with accommodating shifts in moisture levels and the extreme hardness and density associated with tropical decking lumber species, you’ll want to make sure you understand the unique challenges these species pose when it comes to color matching. Even if you have generally … [Read more...]
Avoiding Installation Issues with Ipe Decking, Part 2
Ipe decking is amazing. So are other species of tropical hardwood decking. But that doesn’t mean they don’t come with a few challenges. Some of those are related to moisture content, as we discussed in a previous post. But that’s not the only area in which they can cause … [Read more...]
Avoiding Installation Issues with Ipe Decking, Part 1
It’s no wonder that Ipe and other tropical hardwood species are growing in popularity for both residential decks and public boardwalks: not only are they extremely resilient, but they’re also gorgeous! At the same time though, these uniquely fabulous species come with some … [Read more...]
Top Decking Species Review, Part 2
It’s springtime, and if you’re like us, that means decking is on your mind. Our top decking species, by far, is Ipe. While the premium characteristics of that prime decking species are well known, it also comes with its share of challenges, regarding both availability and … [Read more...]
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