Sometimes, certain lumber species are faddishly popular for no good reason. Not so with Ipe. This remarkable hardwood decking species is truly second to none. Yet it does come with its unique set of potential problems, particularly during the installation process. Most of these … [Read more...]

There’s no doubt about it — there’s a lot to love about Ipe! But this premium tropical decking species comes with a few extra challenges you’ll want to know about before you install your first Ipe deck. As long as you anticipate these differences that come with working with such … [Read more...]

The lumber industry is unique in many ways. Because we are selling organic materials, no two boards are exactly alike, and so many factors affect a board’s grade and price. Because of those issues, both lumber grading and lumber pricing can be complicated; complexity, however, … [Read more...]

The color change of Cherry isn’t the only one that has mystified many. Teak, Purpleheart, and Mahogany are some other special cases. We’ll look at how those unique species change color later on, but first we’ll consider exactly what contributes to the kind of extreme color change … [Read more...]

While there’s no substitute for good, old fashioned weathering via wind, sun, and water to mature your new exterior wood, did you know that dirt may be the secret force behind achieving the interior wood color you like best? If the famous rich color of antique Cherry furniture … [Read more...]

The timeless beauty of natural wood certainly makes up for its sometimes unpredictable nature. (Hey, we all need a little excitement now and then, right?) Usually, though, someone who knows lumber can predict how it will behave in various circumstances. From movement to color … [Read more...]

Like many other wood product manufacturers, deck builders will find a wealth of relevant information on the J. Gibson McIlvain website (mcilvain.com). Of course, you can also find an even more extravagant inventory of exotic decking lumber in our lumber yard. We’re passionate … [Read more...]

Among the many types of builders for whom J. Gibson McIlvain provides lumber, cabinet makers stand to benefit uniquely from our many avenues of lumber supply since we can provide them with not only hardwood lumber, but also with whatever millwork and architectural plywood they … [Read more...]

With all the tropical decking choices out there on the market, you may wonder which one is best for you (see Parts 1, 2 & 3). The decision will largely depend on your budget, your area’s environmental conditions, and your personal tastes. Make sure that whatever alternative … [Read more...]

Choosing the right material for your decking project is an important decision. You want to select something that will last for years and hopefully decades to come. Keeping this goal in mind, it makes sense to invest in a material that’s known to be extremely durable. If you can’t … [Read more...]