Many years ago, the golden standard for any naturally resistant, chemical free wood was California Redwood. These majestic trees that once covered the west coast were the best building materials because of its high resistance to termites, rot, decay, and mold intrusion. Before chemical additives and pressurized systems came into effect, redwood was the prominent building material of which many old civic buildings were erected. Some buildings still stand today as testament of the strength that redwood had.
Wood Decking
Wood of the Month: Cumaru (Brazilian Teak)
Cumaru, also known as Brazilian Teak, is an excellent hardwood that many have never heard of. Its botanical name is Dipteryx Odorata, and is primarily found in the Northern regions of South America. The Cumaru tree’s seeds have been used to create a vanilla extract substitute and are highly sought after. The heartwood of Cumaru is very dense and filled with silica particles making it denser and stronger than softwoods and most hardwoods . The most common use for Cumaru is in decking and outdoor furniture because of its strength, density, and lifespan.
Can Composite Decking be Recycled?
For years the decking industry has gone back and forth as to what is a “green” decking option and what isn’t. In an industry where everyone boasts their product is the best, how are we supposed to make an educated decision when buying a new deck?
Some composite decking does use recycled materials, but does that mean the boards themselves can be recycled? The majority of the time the answer will be no. Our findings suggest that the composite deck boards that can’t be recycled are made from wood and plastic fibers which are combined using bonding agents that deter any machine from separating them.
Buyer Beware! You Get What You Pay For!
When companies use terms like “buyer beware” and “you get what you pay for,” you begin to tune it out because you hear it so much. Unfortunately, every once in a while these clichés are the only way to describe a situation. We recently had a homeowner reach out to us after he purchased some ipe decking, and the saying holds true. You get what you pay for.
Wood of the Month: Aromatic Cedar
Cedar wood is perhaps one of the most storied woods in history. Cedar’s amazing properties are the reason why it’s prevailed for centuries. During a recent renovation in Newport, RI the contractor needed aromatic cedar to maintain the historical accuracy of the structure. AdvantageLumber.com supplied him with high-quality aromatic cedar to provide the structural support needed.
AdvantageLumber.com Exhibits at 2014 IBS
AdvantageLumber.com recently returned from exhibiting at the 2014 International Builders Show in Las Vegas, NV. IBS is the nation’s largest annual residential housing construction trade event for manufacturers and suppliers of home construction products and services.
Brazilian Hardwood Decking
Natural beauty and elegance should not be limited to the indoors only. We believe comfort and beauty should be extended outdoors to create an escape from daily life. Our lumber is used by architects for commercial and residential projects because of its beauty and incredible durability. Hardwoods: Beauty in Every Board Unmatched durability and strength …