In our last article, we started looking at some of the ways everyday people, either at the consumer or supplier end of the lumber industry, could help to keep our forestry practices sustainable both now and in the future. Not only does maintaining healthy forests help protect the … [Read more...]

Though the lumber industry has a checkered past marred by corruption and irresponsibility, valiant efforts have been made to better conserve our natural forestry resources for the future. So what should you, whether you’re a contractor, lumber dealer, or consumer, take away from … [Read more...]

In our first article in this series, we pointed out the fact that many people have an inaccurate picture of what goes on in today’s lumber industry. Their ideas are, understandably, negatively impacted by the harmful and unsustainable practices of past centuries. It’s important … [Read more...]

Those who work in the lumber industry often become used to facing uninformed questions or even unfair judgment from those outside the industry. In large part, these questions and condemnations come from those who assume that today’s current foreign and domestic lumber industry … [Read more...]

The first article of this three-part series explored some of the safety hazards associated with using composite decking materials to construct boardwalks. This next installment will explain some of the other structural problems with this type of material that could make it an … [Read more...]

When considering whether or not you need marine grade plywood for your next project, you’ll want to keep in mind the types of projects which people typically complete using this plywood grade (see Part 1). The first thing that would come to mind when you think of marine-grade … [Read more...]

Are you considering purchasing marine-grade quality plywood for your next project, but you’re not sure whether you need it or not? Then this article series is for you. Whether or not a certain plywood product will bear the title “marine grade” or not depends largely on the … [Read more...]

Strolling along boardwalks is a time-honored summer tradition. Over the years, due to natural disasters or general wear and tear, these iconic landmarks sometimes need to be replaced. Environmentalist organizations continue to aggressively promote the use of composite decking … [Read more...]

Spanish Cedar — despite the ironies involved in its name — can provide a stable, exterior lumber option. At the same time, though, there are some difficulties in sourcing high-quality Spanish Cedar. Let’s explore the issues surrounding the sourcing and pricing of today’s Spanish … [Read more...]

Here at J. Gibson McIlvain, we truly believe that knowledge about wood and the lumber industry is a good thing. The more informed you are about lumber itself and the way the lumber industry operates — including the many factors that influence grading, prices, etc. — the more … [Read more...]

Did you know that just because something is common in the U.S. lumber market doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best (or only) option? Like particular lumber thicknesses, it seems that the preference for even-length decking is unique to the U.S. market, presenting a quandary for … [Read more...]

The lumber ordering process needs to be approached as a conversation, rather than a simple transaction. Only then can a lumber supplier like J. Gibson McIlvain ensure that you’ll receive all the lumber you need and no more, making sure to meet your customer’s needs and … [Read more...]

Ipe is an amazing species; no one is debating that. However, if you fail to anticipate potential issues — many of which are directly related to precisely the characteristics like hardness and density that make Ipe such an excellent decking choice — you may be less than pleased … [Read more...]

While the other three seasons may be more popular for exterior projects, winter certainly holds opportunities for some jobs to be completed. Whether it’s a repair that’s necessary for safety right now or an addition or renovation that needs to be completed by spring, we … [Read more...]

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...]