Why Not Wood?

"New Growth Pine", Radiata Pine and finger-jointed wood are materials still being supplied by local vendors as what appear to be cost effective options. However peeling paint, rot, mold and fungus, knot bleed, "alligatoring", dry rot and water infiltration result in ongoing maintenance and make these choices very costly within a few years.

Urethane millwork products and can be sawed, drilled, nailed and glued like wood. Plus a significant advantage of urethane millwork is that the closed cell structure prevents water penetration and absorption. Properly executed joints are invisible and remain that way. These products also resist splintering, decaying and insect infestation.

 
We don't use wood anymore like we used to. All the "Old Growth" is gone or protected in the rain forest.

Old Growth: 25 Rings per Inch

  
This is what we get in today's lumberyards. South American Radiata, bio-engineered for rapid growth. Absorbs water like a sponge.

Radiata Pine: 3 Rings per Inch

  
Before

Peeling paint, mold and fungus replaced by the elegant Essex Collection.

  
After

Before

Water infiltration, rot and fungus replaced by the stylish Bristol Collection.

After

Before

Dry rot and peeling paint replaced by the traditional Hampshire Collection.

After