Surface & Panel 2009 MAR/APR

MARCH/APRIL 2009

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WHEN STORAGE SOLUTIONS LOOK THIS GOOD, WHY KEEP THEM IN THE CLOSET? CUSTOM CABINETRY, FROM BOX TO FINISH MAKING KITCHEN SHOWROOMS THAT FEEL LIKE HOME HARDWARE DRIVING DESIGN

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With 14,641 miles of paper and counting, Mike’s flawless colormatching run is the longest in history...

The only thing subtle about the gigantic press Mike Carlow runs is the shifting color it could print if not monitored closely. And on a scale where ink is measured in gallons and paper in tons, shifting color can get expensive very quickly. It’s the nature of the beast.

That’s why Interprint and its customers have developed comprehensive quality control systems that detect even the most subtle color flaws. Mike’s a supporter of color quality systems and he’s glad they’re in place. He maintains a great relationship with the QC staff, even if he hasn’t heard from them in awhile: Since the summer of 2006 – more than 30 months running – Mike hasn’t had a single color reject. That’s 14,641 miles of paper, up to 8 feet wide, printed with flawless color. It’s a record he and his Interprint teammates are proud of.

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Mike Carlow Printer Interprint, Inc.

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It also happens to be a record Alex Matkovsky is beating. For 33 months running – 18,549 miles of paper and counting – Alex hasn’t registered any color rejects either. That’s enough paper to stretch three quarters of the way around the globe. The bar has been raised and the competition is on!

As Mike and Alex are quick to explain, however, the competition is actually a team event, and success isn’t measured by the mile, rather by the satisfaction of Interprint’s customers.

... of anyone not named Alex.

Alex Matkovsky Print Team Leader Interprint, Inc.

Interprint, Inc., 101 Central Berkshire Boulevard, Pittsfield, MA 01201 413.443.4733 www.interprint.us

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Better Times Ahead

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ark your calendar, June 30th is the official bottom of the housing market! Trust me, at that date you can sound the “all clear.” From that point forward the housing industry will

begin climbing, slowly at first, but accelerating in the last half of 2009 and through 2010.

What is left in the wake of this breathtaking slide is the opportunity of a lifetime.

The credit markets are still clogged, but improving. Unemployment, while very high appears to be moderating. But we are clearly at or near the bottom of the housing decline. What is left in the wake of this breathtaking slide is the opportunity of a lifetime. When we look back five years from now all will agree that purchasing a home or investing in real estate in 2009 was a terrific move. The combination of exceedingly low housing prices and extremely affordable interest rates are only part of the story. First time home buyers will receive an $8,000 tax credit. Consider this as well; inflation is likely to rear its head in the coming years. What this means for home buyers today is that they will enjoy more rapid appreciation of their property and will be paying back the mortgage with cheaper dollars.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) latest Housing Market Index reveals that builder confidence rose five percentage points in March to the highest level since October 2008.

That is the largest one month increase recorded since May of 2003. There are many components that make up the index, but the two most encouraging are a surge in single-family home sales expectations in the next six months and the increased traffic of perspective buyers.

NAHB chairman Joe Robson stated, “If you’re a potential buyer who’s been sitting on the fence waiting for a sign that now is the time to act, this is it. Some of the most favorable buying conditions in a lifetime are now in place and they are drawing more consumers back to the market.”

The return of a strong housing market is not only critical to our industry, it’s critical to the economy in general. The stock market is said to predict economic conditions six months in the future and has risen over 25% from its low, which is great news. But the housing market must improve…or the economy won’t.

We all depend on the housing industry and its bigger brother, the remodeling industry. We need both to get moving again. There are signs of life and light at the end of the tunnel. I predict that on June 30, 2009 we break out of these doldrums. And since most economists agree that we’ll have an “L” shaped recovery rather than a “V”, I’ll take it. We’ve been at the bottom long enough. That line on the “L” points straight up.

What do you think? I would enjoy knowing your thoughts.

All the best,

John Aufderhaar • Publisher, Surface & Panel • aufderhaar@charter.net

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Largest Design Library. Our selection of laminates represents hundreds of textures, embossings, patterns and colors, as well as realistic woodgrains and effects.

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To learn how OMNOVA Laminates can make a difference in your cabinetry, furniture and fixtures, contact us today! Or visit our online Design Center to see our broad offering, obtain additional information and order samples – www.omnova.com/designcenter.

Office photo courtesy of: Knoll, Inc. (top, right).

Retail photo courtesy of: Hallmark Cards Inc. (center, right). © 2009 OMNOVA Solutions Inc.

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PUBLISHER

John Aufderhaar Surface & Panel Magazine 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098 PH: 920-206-1766 FAX: 920-206-1767 aufderhaar@charter.net www.surfaceandpanel.com ADVERTISING

Ryan Wagner National Accounts Manager, Surface & Panel Magazine 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098 PH: 920-262-2080 FAX: 920-206-1767 ryanwagner20@yahoo.com

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C O M P O S I T E PA N E L A S S O C I AT I O N MAIN OFFICE

19465 Deerfield Avenue, Suite 306, Leesburg, VA 20176 PH: 703-724-1128 FAX: 703-724-1588 Toll Free 1-866-4COMPOSITES www.pbmdf.com CANADIAN OFFICE

Post Office Box 747, Station “B” Ottawa, Ontario CANADA K1P 5P8 PH: 613-232-6782 FAX: 703-724-1588

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The Technological Advantage Windquest Companies has earned their place at the top of the home storage niche by carefully growing their business in response to the demands of the market.

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Custom Cabinetry, from Box to Finish Plain and Fancy Custom Cabinetry blends artisan skills with automated technology to produce some of the finest high-end custom cabinets available today.

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The Software Advantage Modern manufacturing depends on software to streamline operations. Communication to the end-user and the manufacturing line utilizes software that is functional and user friendly.

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Making Kitchen Showrooms that Feel Like Home Zingg Design Inc partners with Sub Zero/ Wolf in fashioning the undeniably successful “The Living Kitchen,” a revolutionary retail concept.

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Hardware Driving Design Innovative hardware makes use of the best the mechanical world has to offer, using leverage, compressed air and rotational motion to grant easy access to hard-to-reach areas.

DESIGN/PRODUCTION

Karen Leno KML Design, Inc. 923 Forest Edge Circle, Coralville, IA 52241 PH: 319-337-8275 FAX: 319-337-9486 kmldesign@mchsi.com

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When Storage Solutions Look This Good, Why Keep Them in the Closet?

In a modern 200,000 square-foot facility nestled among the windmills and wooden shoes of quiet Holland, Michigan Windquest Companies fabricates panel products.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Suzanne VanGilder Surface & Panel Magazine 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098 PH: 608-698-0375 FAX: 920-206-1767 suzannevangilder@sbcglobal.net

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CIRCULATION

Michelle Bruhn Surface & Panel Magazine 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098 PH: 920-674-6943 FAX: 920 206-1767 mlbruhn@sbcglobal.net

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INTERNATIONAL TESTING AND CERTIFICATION CENTER

73 Lawson Road Leesburg, VA 20176 PH: 703-724-1128 FAX: 703-724-1588

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[ Surface & Panel is published bimonthly by Bedford Falls Communications, Inc., 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, Wisconsin 53098, telephone 920-206-1766, fax 920-2061767. John Aufderhaar, President, Christine Aufderhaar, CFO. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, electronic or mechanical without written permission from the publisher. Subscription policy: Individual subscriptions are available, without charge, to manufacturers who engage in panel processing, qualified service providers and suppliers. Publisher reserves the right to reject non-qualified subscribers. One year subscription to non-qualified individuals: U.S. $50, Canada/Mexico $75, all other countries $100, payable in U.S funds. Single issues are $15, and must be prepaid. Bedford Falls Communications, Inc., does not assume and hereby disclaims any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions in the material contained herein, regardless of whether such errors result from negligence, accident, or any other cause whatsoever. Printed in the U.S.A. Postmaster: Send address changes to Surface & Panel, 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098.

Please direct all subscription questions and mail to: Surface & Panel, 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098 PH: 920-206-1766

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From the Publisher

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About the Composite Panel Association

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From CPA's President

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Tech Spec ANSI approves revised standards for Particleboard and MDF; CARB emission ceilings embraced.

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Regenerate California’s emission rule spurs greener composites.

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Industry News

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Architect Spec Advanced materials and innovative designs from Zingg Design.

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Resource

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From the Editor

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Advertiser Index

On the cover:

Zingg Design Inc. created The Living Kitchen showrooms for SubZero/Wolf appliances with the intention of moving away from the typical “units in a row” display. Each TLK is built with HPL and MDF to create a warm, homey space that showcase the appliances in their natural habitat, the kitchen.

4/27/09 12:31 PM

Ash Elegance

As soon as we’ve scanned it we’ll be putting it back!

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The American Family is constantly changing and redefining itself. Families are influenced by the places they live and where they travel. These influences could be anything from the beach to the countryside, the big city or an exotic destination. At Schattdecor we find that the effect these places have

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on a family is reflected in the design and flooring decor choices they make for their home. To learn more about our American Family Collection of flooring decors, or about the latest addition to the Schattdecor family in the US, give us a call at 314-209-1655 or visit us online at www.schattdecor.com

4/27/09 10:35 AM

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CPA’s International Testing and Certification Center ■

A PEERLESS COMMITMENT TO QUALITY CONTROL

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WORLD’S FIRST CARB-APPROVED THIRD PARTY CERTIFIER

NO OTHER FACILITY IN THE WORLD IS AS PREPARED TO TEST AND CERTIFY ULTRA–LOW EMITTING WOOD PRODUCTS. Contact the ITCC today about available services and fees.

ITCC 73 Lawson Road, Suite 101 Leesburg, VA 20175 (703) 724-1128 Laboratory Services, Bill Harrington | bharrington@cpamail.org Certification Services, Chris Surak | csurak@cpamail.org

COMPOSITE

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CPA’s International Testing and Certification Center (ITCC) in Leesburg, Virginia, is a stateof-the-art facility engineered with tomorrow’s ultra low-emitting wood products in mind.

The ITCC helps companies meet the strict product emissions requirements of California’s new Air Toxic Control Measure (“the CARB rule”) as well as other North American and international standards.

CPA’s newest facility expands on 40 years of independent, reliable testing services and CPA’s designation as “TPC-1” – the first certification agency in the world to be approved as a Third Party Certifier by the California Air Resources Board.

It’s also where the CPA Grademark Certification Programs are headquartered, the largest and most stringent of their kind in North America. These include CPA’s Environmentally Preferable Product (EPP) and formaldehyde emission certifications.

The ITCC features three Large Chambers and a state-of-the-art sample conditioning area made entirely of inert material to ensure ultra low background levels. Beginning in 2009, the ITCC also features six Small Chambers, and is equipped to utilize perforator, desiccator and various international test methods.

AS SOCIATION

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F R O M

About the Composite Panel Association Founded in 1960, the Composite Panel Association (CPA) is dedicated to advancing the North American wood-based panel and decorative surfacing industries. CPA represents both industries on technical, regulatory, quality assurance and product acceptance issues.

CPA General Members include the leading manufacturers of particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF) and hardboard, representing about 95% of North American manufacturing capacity.

CPA Associate Members include manufacturers of decorative surfaces, furniture, cabinets, mouldings, doors and equipment, along with laminators, distributors, industry media and adhesive suppliers. All are committed to product advancement and industry competitiveness.

CPA is a vital resource for both manufacturers and users of industry products. The association provides leadership on federal, state and provincial regulatory and legislative matters of interest to industry, particularly those with environmental implications.

As a highly-regarded and accredited standards developer, CPA writes, publishes and maintains industry product standards.

CPA operates an International Testing and Certification Center (ITCC) in Leesburg, Virginia and manages the Grademark Certification Program, the largest and most stringent testing and certification program of its kind for North American composite panel products. The association also helps manufacturers create in-plant quality control programs through educational programs and on-site assistance.

CPA compiles and publishes the most definitive industry performance data, as well as technical bulletins on the use of industry products and other educational materials.

The association also partners with Surface & Panel magazine in publishing this magazine as well as a yearly "Buyers Guide."

CPA‘S EPP PROGRAMS

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LICENSED FACILITY PRODUCED IN A FACILITY THAT PURCHASES AT LEAST 50% CPA-CERTIFIED EPP PANELS.

CPA offers an Environmentally Preferable Product (EPP) certification program, which certifies composite panel products that contain 100% recycled or recovered fiber and meet low formaldehyde emission limits. Most EPP-certified mills have also

achieved compliance with California‘s tough new regulation on formaldehyde emissionsthe CARB rule.

CPA‘s EPP has been extended to include finished (downstream) manufacturers that use EPP panels. Products carrying the EPP Downstream logo were manufactured by a company that has demonstrated its environmental commitment by purchasing EPPcertified composite wood panels.

CPA sponsors the 2009 Surface & Panel Buyers Guide, which is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive product information available about North American composite panel and decorative surfacing products.

The Guide includes in-depth descriptions of the different types of composite panels and decorative surfaces available, along with key features and services offered by the major producers of these products.

WOOD-BASED COMPOSITE PANELS

The three types of wood-based composite panels in the marketplace today are particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF) and hardboard. These panels can be engineered to the customer‘s specific physical properties and surface characteristics to create durable, functional end products. By their very nature, wood-based composite panels are among the greenest materials in the world, and a great choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.

DECORATIVE SURFACES

Decorative surfaces are used in a wide variety of applications including: cabinets, mouldings, flooring, furniture, countertops, store fixtures, doors and shelving. Composite panels provide an ideal substrate for decorative surfaces – one that is consistent, uniform in strength and free of defects.

Decorative surfaces are broadly separated into overlays and coatings, and are applied to composite panels by various techniques. Overlays include foils, high pressure laminates, light basis weight papers, TFM (thermally fused melamine), veneers and vinyls. Coatings are available in both liquid and powder forms.

C P A ' S

P R E S I D E N T

The economy has a long way to go before all of us start feeling better, but here is some good news.

North American composite panel manufacturers are making a significant capital investment in technology and rapidly preparing themselves to meet the growing demand for low-emitting, sustainable wood products.

The proof is before our eyes. In March, revised ANSI Voluntary Standards for particleboard and MDF were published after a year-long review by more than 120 stakeholders throughout the supply chain. These standards, sponsored by the Composite Panel Association (CPA), represent the most significant changes in two decades, including a requirement that all panels meet California’s tough new emission requirements for formaldehyde, the so-called “CARB rule” [see article pp. 12].

Also, by January 1st of this year more than 96% of the production capacity of North American particleboard and MDF mills had been certified to meet (and in some cases exceed) California’s Phase I emissions requirement. That is a dramatic achievement by any measure and speaks to the readiness of domestic manufacturers to supply products that are at the cutting edge of environmental compliance. Most of that production is also certified to meet CPA’s Environmental Preferable Product (EPP) requirements, which includes compliance with the CARB emissions limits plus the use of 100% recycled or residual fiber material [see article pp. 12].

Finally, in the ten months since last May we’ve gone from having one Third Party Certification agency recognized by CARB to 23 such agencies around the world, with eleven more applications pending. CPA was the first and we are proud of our TPC-1 designation, but we are also pleased that so much of the international community is realizing the importance of giving consumers an assurance of quality control and environmental performance when it comes to products made with composite wood panels. The CARB rule is also pressing offshore manufacturers who export here to meet the same standards that domestic manufacturers must meet when it comes to product safety and performance, and that’s a good thing. We’re convinced that industry is making tangible progress and will be prepared to meet the demand for certified composites when the economic recovery comes.

I hope you enjoy this issue of Surface & Panel, the pre-eminent publication for the wood-based decorative surfacing and composite panel industries. I welcome your feedback.

MORE INFORMATION

Composite Panel Association 19465 Deerfield Avenue, Suite 306 Leesburg, Virginia, USA 20176 (703) 724-1128 www.pbmdf.com

Tom Julia • CPA President • tjulia@cpamail.org

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ANSI Approves Revised Standards for Particleboard and MDF; CARB Emission Ceilings Embraced

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based products due to inherit natural variability of wood. The conversion from a five panel average to single panel percentile limit harmonizes the standard with international wood products standards and is more user friendly to engineers and designers.

These revised voluntary standards supersede ANSI A208.1-1999 Particleboard and ANSI A208.2-2002 MDF for Interior Applications.

These standards became effective in February for all non-building code products. Note that ANSI A208.1-2009 Table B contains the grades that are referenced by the building codes. The CPA will submit the 2009 Particleboard standard to the US and Canadian building code organizations for adoption; however, code revision cycles can take 2-3 years until final publication. Particleboard underlayment, manufactured home decking and stair tread products will continue to reference the 1999 ANSI Particleboard Standard until the building codes are updated. While the standards became effective in February, stakeholders should appreciate that a several month transition period is practical for inventories and corresponding references to be implemented.

CPA has developed a User’s Guide to assist with understanding the numerous major revisions to each standard. The eight page User’s Guide includes a statement of purpose, an overview of signifi cant changes, a section on understanding what the property values represent, effective date and implementation considerations as well as an example of the statistical calculations.

The revised standards and User’s Guide are now available in the publications section of CPA’s web site www.pbmdf.com. s&p

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he American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has approved revised national voluntary standards for ANSI A208.12009 Particleboard and ANSI A208.2-2009 MDF for Interior Applications. Sponsored by the Composite Panel Association (CPA), the standards include new grades and product categories as well as harmonization with the formaldehyde emission ceilings and other requirements recently enacted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

“After a multi-year initiative, these standards were approved using consensus procedures of due process, openness and balanced participation of interested stakeholders. More than 120 organizations were invited to participate in the revision process, including panel producers, customers, government, academia and research institutions,” said Gary Heroux, CPA’s Vice President of Product Acceptance. “The standards provide an excellent example of the composite panel industry’s commitment to producing high quality, safe products that meet today’s market demands.”

Highlights of the changes include incorporating the California Air Resources Board’s Air Toxic Control Measure Phase 1 and Phase 2 formaldehyde emission limits. In addition, the strength properties have been converted to a 5th percentile (lower or minimum value) or a 95th (upper or maximum value) single panel percentile expression.

Prior to the 2009 standards, the property values in both standards represented a five panel average. The property tables now represent the minimum or maximum property value for a “single” panel with 95 percent confidence. The 95 percent level is common for wood

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California’s Emission Rule Spurs Greener Composites

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n January 1, 2009 the long debated California Air Resources

CPA was the first TPC approved by CARB and currently certifies about

Board (CARB) rule limiting formaldehyde emissions from

90% of the particleboard and MDF production capacity in North

Composite Wood Products (particleboard, MDF and hardwood ply-

America. A total of 23 such TPCs around the world have been approved

wood) went into effect. The CARB rule has been rightly characterized

by CARB, with 11 more applications pending.

as “the toughest production standard in the world” for formaldehyde

Beyond the interest in low-emitting composites, there is a grow-

emissions, in part because it includes a requirement for rigorous third

ing interest in products that can substantiate a green claim when

party testing and certification. All composite panels made or sold in

it comes to recycled or post-consumer content. When the North

California must now meet the first phase of California’s new rule, and

America composite panel industry says it’s among the greenest in the

finished products containing non-complaint composites must be off

world, there’s plenty of proof that goes well beyond compliance with

retail shelves by July 1, 2010.

the CARB rule. For example, CPA’s Environmentally Preferable Product

The domestic industry is moving quickly to meet the CARB rule, and

(EPP) Certification requires panel producers to meet a two part test:

offshore manufacturers are beginning to follow suit. The Composite

compliance with CARB emission ceilings requirements and proof that

Panel Association (CPA) estimates that 96% of North American particle-

the raw material in the panel is made from 100% recycled, residual or

board and MDF production capacity is already certified to meet Phase

post-consumer wood. Participation in the EPP Downstream Program

1 of the CARB rule, and about 80% of hardwood plywood production is

extends this concept to licensing manufacturers of finished goods,

meeting Phase 1 too. Simply put, finished product manufacturers that

and licensing has grown more than 500% in the past year as the EPP

source from North American suppliers will have no problem obtaining

trademark is becoming one of the most sought after

CARB compliant wood composites, whereas compliance by offshore

ways to demonstrate environmental stewardship.

Presented at right is a handy reference guide

suppliers still has a long way to go. Asian production in particular is well behind North American quality assurance and compliance levels, yet more than 200 plants in China alone have already obtained certification by CARB-approved Third Party Certification (TPC) agencies.

LICENSED FACILITY PRODUCED IN A FACILITY THAT PURCHASES AT LEAST 50% CPA-CERTIFIED EPP PANELS.

to the CARB rule – products encompassed by the California rule, emission ceilings, compliance and sell through deadlines, and exemptions.

To meet the CARB requirements, composite panel producers must

For more information about the CARB rule, the

have their quality systems certified by a TPC. That in turn allows archi-

composite panel industry and EPP-certified compa-

tects, builders and downstream fabricators to specify CARB-compliant

nies, visit www.pbmdf.com or www.CARBrule.org. s&p

material and to have this documented by product certification labels.

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DOWNSTREAM

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= CARB + 100% RECYCLED/RECOVERED

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WHAT THE "CARB RULE" MEANS FOR YOU PRODUCTS AND BUSINESSES COVERED Composite Wood Products • Particleboard.

• Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF).

• Thin MDF (< 8 mm in thickness) [has different emission requirements and compliance deadlines than regular MDF].

• Hardwood Plywood made with a veneer core.

• Hardwood Plywood made with a composite core (particleboard or MDF) [has different compliance deadlines than veneer core hardwood plywood].

Business Activities Covered • Finished products for sale or use in California may only contain CARB compliant composite wood products certified by a CARB approved Third Party Certification (TPC) agency. Fabricators must specify and only use compliant composites.

EMISSION LIMITS AND DEADLINES Products meeting the emission limits above (see chart) must also be certified by a CARB approved third party certification program unless they are approved Ultra Low Emission Formaldehyde (ULEF) or No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) products (see certification exemptions).

Sell Through Provisions for Moving Inventory Beyond the Manufacturing Deadlines* • Manufacturers and Importers of composite wood products: 3 months beyond the Phase 1 and Phase 2 ATCM manufacturing deadlines.

• Distributors of composite wood products: 5 months beyond the Phase 1 and Phase 2 ATCM manufacturing deadlines.

• Retailers of composite wood products: 12 months beyond the Phase 1 and Phase 2 ATCM manufacturing deadlines.

• Manufacturers of composite wood products for sale or use in California must obtain certification by a CARB approved TPC.

• Fabricators and Distributors of finished products containing composite wood products: 18 months beyond the Phase 1 and Phase 2 ATCM manufacturing deadlines.

• Manufacturers, importers and distributors of composite wood products for sale or use in California, have recordkeeping, labeling and notification obligations.

• Retailers of fabricated products containing composite wood products: 18 months beyond the Phase 1 and Phase 2 ATCM manufacturing deadlines.

• Fabricators of finished products containing composite wood products and distributors have recordkeeping, labeling and notification obligations.

*see table below

• California retailers of composite wood products and fabricated products containing composite wood products have labeling and recordkeeping requirements.

• Third Party certifiers of composite wood products have recordkeeping, monitoring and reporting requirements.

RESOURCES Composite Panel Association (CPA) 703.724.1128 or jbradfield@cpamail.org | www.pbmdf.com www.CARBrule.org - the reliable resource for compliance California Air Resources Board (CARB) 916.327.5615 or btakemot@arb.ca.gov www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/compwood/compwood.htm

Labeling, Notification and Recordkeeping Requirements for Fabricators • Must use composites that comply with the emission and certification requirements of the rule.

• Records showing date of purchase for composites must be kept for 2 years.

• Label required for every product or product box applied as a stamp, tag, sticker or bar code.

• Label must include the fabricator’s name, the production date and the compliance standard of the product being used (i.e. Phase 1, Phase 2, ULEF, NAF).

• Receiving written documentation of product compliance from suppliers and providing it to customers is recommended.

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Weeke North America Incorporated in Michigan AWFS Participates in National Legislative Fly-In Thirteen AWFS members and association officers participated in the Second Annual Woodworking Equipment and Wood Processing (WEWP) Public Policy Fly-In to Washington, DC, meeting with congressional representatives from California, Georgia, Ohio, Indiana, Utah, North Carolina and Oregon. The Senate was voting on the Stimulus Bill at the time, allowing AWFS members to discuss the industry’s needs in a very timely fashion.

Contingents from the WMIA and WMMA also attended.

Any AWFS member can join other manufacturers in DC next year.

“We invite all members to become part of our group,” said Angelo Gangone, executive director, AWFS. “The three days will prove quite worthwhile to you and your company and benefit our industry. You don’t have to be on the board or on a committee – you just have to have a desire for your voice to be heard. With a new administration, the time is ripe to put manufacturing concerns in the face of our representatives. We need to let them know how the economy is impacting each of our companies.”

The full-scale international AWFS Fair, scheduled for July 15 - 18, in Las Vegas, will also feature exhibitors from the entire home and commercial furnishings industry and includes manufacturers and distributors of machinery, hardware, lumber, construction, materials, and other supplies to furniture, cabinet manufacturers and custom woodworkers. n

Stiles Machinery Inc. is proud to announce that Weeke North America has been incorporated in the state of Michigan to manufacture an entry-level series of CNC routers.

As the largest independent distributor of woodworking machinery in the world, Stiles observed that nested-based CNC routing continues to gain momentum as an efficient manufacturing process. Their customers in a variety of industries such as store fixtures, cabinets, closets, office furniture and architectural millwork needed a cost-effective solution – especially in today’s economic climate.

But German engineering alone didn’t fulfill the expectation of Stiles and their customers. Stiles views the slow economy as an opportunity to pursue new strategies, so they considered another option. By manufacturing in the States, they could build machines for less without factors such as fluctuating exchange rates and international shipping costs. German engineered quality at an American-made price. Weeke North America was established as a joint venture between the Homag Group, Stiles and Weeke Maschinenbau. Weeke Maschinenbau is a subsidiary of the Homag Group, the world’s largest manufacturer of woodworking equipment located in Southern Germany. Stiles has been the exclusive distributor in the United States for Homag for almost 30 years.

The new company occupies a 30,000 square foot manufacturing facility located near Stiles’ headquarters in Grand Rapids Michigan and utilizes local manufacturers for components. The facility produces machines to order, maintains almost no inventory and still offers short delivery times. Stiles introduced the Vantech earlier this year and received overwhelming acceptance in the marketplace.

For more information, please contact Stephan Waltman, V.P., at 616.698.7500 or swaltman@stilesmachinery.com. n

WIC 2009 – Cancellation

Designer Mark Smith presenting new colors and decors developed for North American customers with the “American Family” theme.

Positive Surfaces Presentations

by Schattdecor Team in North America At Surfaces 2009 in Las Vegas, much talk was focused on the current state of the economy. The team from Schattdecor in North America put together a presentation that was designed to help customers differentiate themselves, especially during difficult times.

And though the economy is most challenging, Schattdecor continues to produce new decors and stay on top of the latest trends.

Designer Mark Smith’s presentation this year revolved around the ever-changing American Family and his Family of Colors theme from IWF 2008. He showed that both of these are influenced by a person’s surroundings and their travels. These influences could be anything from the beach to the countryside, the big city or an exotic vacation. In his presentation Mark tied these influential settings to the design and flooring choices a family makes for their home.

Schattdecor recently opened a production facility in Chekhov, Russia in October 2008. A production plant in Turkey is scheduled as well as one in the US. With these three new facilities Schattdecor will have eleven total for the production of printed decor paper and finish foil. Including the works operated by its three subsidiaries Arcolor, Rotodecor and Kingdecor, Schattdecor will thus have 14 production locations all over the world. n As in previous years, Schattdecor showcased its designs in a suite in the Venetian Hotel, Las Vegas, NV.

The leadership of the three sponsoring associations – WMIA, WMMA and AWFS – have made the difficult decision to cancel the 18th Annual Woodworking Industry Conference. Despite registrations by many members of all three associations, attendance did not reach a level that justified going forward with the Conference, whose costs are underwritten in part for the membership by the associations. Registered attendees will be contacted about full refunds by the respective associations to which they submitted payment.

WMIA, WMMA and AWFS have always provided their members with first class events, and it is important to continue to do so. Please mark your calendars for WIC 2010 (Wednesday April 21st through Saturday April 24th) in Monterey, CA. n

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Danzer Group’s Subsidiary IFO in the Republic of Congo Obtains FSC Certificate

ANSI Approves Revised Standards for Particleboard and MDF; CARB Emission Ceilings Embraced

Danzer Group’s subsidiary Industrie Forestière d’Ouesso (IFO) in the Republic of Congo has achieved Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification for its forestry concession. Danzer Group can now supply logs, lumber and veneers from major African species with an FSC forest management certificate. The FSC certificate guarantees that IFO’s forest concession – covering an area of nearly 1.16 million hectares (2.9-million acres) – is managed according to the FSC forest management standard that includes social, economic and ecological requirements.

More and more customers are recognizing that FSC certification is an important contribution to protecting the forests in the Congo basin. Danzer Group companies carry FSC Chain of Custody certificates that guarantee to their customers that timber products with the FSC logo can be traced back and originate from a FSC-certified forest. FSC certification for IFO was approved by the independent certification company, Société Général de Surveillance (SGS), after an extensive audit. ■

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has approved revised national voluntary standards for ANSI A208.1-2009 Particleboard and ANSI A208.2-2009 MDF for Interior Applications.

Sponsored by the Composite Panel Association (CPA), the standards include new grades as well as harmonization with the formaldehyde emission ceilings and other requirements recently enacted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

“After a multi-year initiative, these standards were approved using consensus procedures of due process, openness and balanced participation of interested stakeholders. More than 120 organizations were invited to participate in the revision process, including panel producers, customers, government, academia and research institutions,” said Gary Heroux, CPA’s Vice President of Product Acceptance. “The standards provide an excellent example of the composite panel industry’s commitment to producing high quality, safe products that meet today’s market demands.”

The revised standards are now available in the publications section of CPA’s web site, www.pbmdf.com. ■

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Clarion Boards Announces New Ownership and Investment Tony Sturrus is named President, Clarion Industries and Jose Kofman isnamed President, Clarion Boards. New capital infusion provides expansion and growth opportunities for industrial panels business.

A private equity group, led by the Fairbanks family, announced today it has completed, with ATC Panels, the purchase of Tarkett’s equity share in their joint venture. Tarkett will continue to have Clarion Industries as a preferred and strategic partner for the supply of laminate flooring products in North America.

The new joint venture includes all the assets of Clarion Boards, Inc., manufacturer of high quality Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) and High Density Fiberboard (HDF) and Clarion Laminates, LLC, manufacturer of premium laminate flooring products. The infusion of new capital into Clarion Industries has strengthened the ability of the organization to support its current operations and to pursue new business opportunities. The manufacturing facilities of Clarion Industries are located in Shippenville, Pa. ■

NexGen Event 2009: Introducing the Next Generation in Machinery Events Biesse and Stiles are proud to announce they will conduct a combined event to showcase the breadth of technology both companies offer. In an unprecedented joint organizational effort between these two industry players, a new type of event has emerged.

The companies will hold concurrent open houses at their North Carolina facilities to display approximately 70 machines under power.

The inaugural NexGen event will be held June 8-13, 2009. The three North Carolina showrooms-Biesse in Charlotte and Stiles in High Point and Gastonia-will be open from 9 am to 6 pm for the entire week including Saturday.

This extended week-long event was designed as a flexible program with customers in mind.

Visits can be coordinated around production schedules and still provide an opportunity to see a wide array of the best technology in the industry. Each facility will feature their latest machineries in operation and experts will be on hand to answer questions.

For more information, please contact the NexGen team at 866.285.1958 or info@ nexgenevent.com. ■

Third-Party Audit Marks Milestone for KCMA Environmental Stewardship Program The Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association’s (KCMA) Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) recently earned approval from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited certification organization, Architectural Testing, In. The Architectural Testing audit validates the ESP certification process.

ESP incorporates a holistic approach to environmental responsibility within the cabinet industry. This announcement comes soon after the ANSI approval of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Green Building Standard(tm), which references ESP as the benchmark for cabinet standards.

“Successful completion of the third-party review is another important milestone for ESP,” said Dick Titus, KCMA executive vice president. “This audit further enhances the credibility of the program as the environmental benchmark for kitchen cabinets and bath vanities.”

The Architectural Testing audit included a comprehensive review of the ESP process, records and administration. All elements of the program received a favorable review.

As a criterion in the NAHB Green Building Standard, the first ANSI approved green building rating system for residential construction in the U.S. , ESP will set the standard for home owners looking to integrate eco-friendly cabinets into their home.

“Over 150 companies and brands now participate in KCMA’s ESP program, making products available at virtually every price point,” said John Swedeen, KCMA president, Starmark/Fieldstone Division of Norcraft Companies. “ESP manufacturers earn points for meeting environmental requirements pertaining not only to the product, but also to the manufacturing process.” ■

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Save the Date for NeoCon SHOW HOURS: Monday, June 15 - Wednesday, June 17, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

NeoCon World’s Trade Fair, the National Exposition of Contract Furnishings, is the largest exhibition of contract furnishings for the design and management of the built environment in North America. NeoCon features the latest trends, products, and concepts in office, healthcare, hospitality, residential, institutional and government environments, all under one roof at Chicago’s famous Merchandise Mart.

Attendees will discover thousands of innovative products and resources for corporate hospitality, health care, retail, government, institutional and residential interiors from more than 1,200 showrooms and exhibitors.

The show is a great opportunity to gain inspiration, learn and network.

NeoCon offers the most comprehensive conference schedule in the industry with more than 150 CEU-accredited seminars, industry association forums, and keynote presentations. This premier contract show features eight shows components simultaneously: • LIGHT! Expo

• Architectural Stone and Ceramic Tile Exposition (ASCTEX) • GREENlife • Buildings Show • NEWHospitality • OFDA • Fine Design • LuxeHome For more information, please visit www.neocon.com or call 800.677.6278 (MART). Dial 312.527.7600 if calling from outside the United States. ■

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Students Were Put to the Test ...

Now YOU Decide Which Designs Stand Out from the Rest!

NeoCon partnered with tvsdesign and Material ConneXion to launch a competition that would challenge students to create sustainable spaces for their college campuses.

28 groups from across the country have entered, but only two lucky schools will win and have the opportunity to bring their designs to life at NeoCon. You can view the design concepts online and vote for your favorite at www.neocon.com/ sglc/vote.cfm. Check out the winning design concepts showcased in booths #8-3130 and #8-3130A at The Merchandise Mart during NeoCon World’s Trade Fair, June 15-17, 2009. s&p

circle #07 on reader service card

W AT E R - R E S I S T A N T, S U S T A I N A B L E

O V E R L AY

Introducing an industry first—SynDECOR®— a Water-Resistant, Sustainable Overlay (WRSO) SynDECOR® delivers:

exceptional resistance to water penetration sustainability adhesion miter-foldability machinability To learn more about SynDECOR®, call 1.800.688.2044 • • • • •

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When Storage Why Keep Solutions Look Them in the This Good, Closet?

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n a modern 200,000 square-foot facility nestled among the windmills and wooden shoes of quiet Holland, Michigan Windquest Companies fabricates panel products. Not unlike the little northern tulip bulbs waiting for May to emerge from the earth with vivid hues, unfinished panels await their turns to go through Windquest’s three-dimensional laminating (3DL) line, emerging on the other side wrapped in a beautiful decorative vinyl film. Ah spring, that time of year when folks’ fancies turn to thoughts of...cleaning. It is time to get organized. And who better to consult about home storage solutions then Windquest, a company that exemplifies careful use of materials and efficiency in manufacturing? Windquest knows that there is no one solution that can meet the needs of every client, so they utilize a three-pronged approach of targeted distribution to maximize their market reach.

Windquest offers three product lines that are all manufactured with the same basic materials on the same equipment. Specialty Products functions as an O.E.M. that makes panel products and distributes them to other companies that don’t have the technology to produce them in-house. This was the company’s original line when it started over 25 years ago as a laminator and fabricator. In 1987 Windquest decided to launch their own branded line of closets, which has since grown into two consumer product lines. Easy Track is the mainstream consumer line; it is sold via specialty retailers and is marketed as kits for do-it-yourselfers. The ORG line is the high-end consumer line. It is distributed through dealers who collaborate with homeowners to create personalized, furniture-quality storage solutions.

ORG is the biggest part of the overall business.

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The ORG Experience

Part of what makes ORG a desirable home storage system is the quality and variety of the products in the line. The other part is the customer service received when making an ORG purchase. Although ORG is sold exclusively through independent dealers, each dealer maintains a close working relationship with Windquest. “We not only manufacture the products but we also provide the design software and all the marketing materials. We’ll do templates for websites and anything else we can to make it easier for dealers to serve their customers. It is really a turnkey operation,” says Randy Tallman Director of Marketing and Product Management for Windquest. In addition to the marketing materials and the finished panels, Windquest also stocks all the accessories and hardware (functional and decorative) necessary to complete any of the designs in their product showcase. “Most of our dealers will buy their hardware and accessories from us,” says Tallman, “so we buy the latest and greatest from manufacturers to make sure that our dealers have access to good hardware at good prices.” It is the little details that elevate classic style to exceptional design.

ORG dealers handle all the direct contact with the clients from the evaluation of the client’s needs to installation of the finished product.

Since building a custom storage solution for someone is a very personal project, dealers provide in-home consultations. Bruce Zauft owns Organized Spaces of Wisconsin and has been a dealer of Windquest’s organizing systems for many years. “It was an easy choice to carry ORG because of all the support from the manufacturer,” said Zauft from his workshop. “The marketing materials and the ORGdesign tool make it possible to go into customers’ homes and work with them to develop a specialized plan. People are busy. They don’t have a lot of time. My job is to simplify their lives. I can show them the design possibilities, measure, create a three dimensional rendering, provide an estimate and finish the deal right there at the kitchen table where they feel most comfortable.” Windquest supplies dealers with such comprehensive marketing and sales tools to take into clients’ homes that roughly half 20

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of all ORG dealers do not even maintain a brick-and-mortar showroom.

ORGdesign is the proprietary software that Windquest developed from the ground up to be an easy-to-use sales tool for dealers. It is akin to a simple CAD program that affords the designer a lot of flexibility, yet it does not take an engineer to use ORGdesign. The software comes fully-loaded with the entire ORG catalog, but it can also handle custom modifications so dealers can quickly and easily walk homeowners through designs on screen. Once a design has been created ORGdesign carries the information through to a bill of materials that provides the dealer with the exact cost of the materials and calculates margins. The dealer then has an accurate price to give the customer and there are no surprises. When the dealer pushes the “buy” button the information is sent directly to Windquest where it is separated into standard parts and custom parts. In general standard parts need no further data manipulation before manufacturing. Custom parts go through the custom department where an individual monitors the order to ensure that all the information is there for fabrication.

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"To me, one of the biggest advances for us as a company is the 3-D vinyl in all the different wood grains."

RANDY TALLMAN, DIRECTOR MARKETING AND PRODUCT MANAGEMENT FOR WINDQUEST

CIRCLE #09 ON READER SERVICE CARD

CREATING CUSTOM SOLUTIONS

On the production side Windquest has streamlined its manufacturing processes and distribution. Not only is efficiency good for the bottom-line, it better meets the needs of the ORG dealers. Windquest examined the dealers’ operations to identify what kinds of products were needed, within what time frame and at what price point. They learned that rather then manufacturing and delivering large quantities of parts to dealers, who would then have to store product, they could make use of the “just in time” capabilities of the manufacturing equipment to fabricate pieces as they are ordered. Most of the machines on the production line have very quick change overs that make it possible to complete orders, both standard and specialty, within a three-day lead time. Whether the dealer’s order is for 10 pieces or 100 pieces, Windquest can manufacture it efficiently from a cost standpoint. Considering that most ORG installations can be done within one day (depending on the size of the job), dealers are able to provide clients with high-end custom storage solutions, from consultation to installation, inside of a week.

Barry Walburg is the Vice President of Specialty Products, he has been with Windquest for 21-years. “It used to be that if you had anything more than a shelf and rod it was a big deal.” Walburg says, “Everything used to be white and there used to be two sizes of vertical panels and three sizes of shelves, maybe a couple of different drawer sizes. And you could do everything that way.” Now with over 3000 SKUs and 13 colors just in melamine ORG has experienced a design explosion.

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market place. White and chrome were once the only available choices for baskets and pulls. Now such sophisticated finishes as oil-rubbed bronze and brushed-nickel add even more design possibilities. What started off as utilitarian closet organization systems has grown into home furnishings that are as functional as they are aesthetically pleasing.

“To me, one of the biggest advances for us as a company is the 3-D vinyl in all the different wood grains,” says Tallman. “We started off just as closets and now we are doing wall beds, home offices, garages, entertainment centers, libraries, bookshelves, pantries, lockers... really anywhere that anybody needs functional storage and style.” ORG door and drawer fronts are made out of MDF that undergoes the 3DL process. The MDF board is cut and routed on a nested based CNC, which in Windquest’s case is either a Weeke or a Morbedelli. Depending on the quality of the CIRCLE #10 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Riken is the world leader in the production of high gloss 3-D laminates. Architects and designers all over North America turn to Riken when spectacular gloss levels are desired in kitchen cabinet, store fixture, office furniture and commercial interior applications. A new “short roll” program is now in place to deliver Riken 3-D high gloss laminates anywhere in North America, shipped from stock in Riken’s warehouse. The “short roll” program includes the introduction of hot new designs and colors.

Riken’s high gloss 3-D laminates add value to any application.

Call us today for samples of the new introductions.

Rivestar® is the brand name for RIKEN TECHNOS film, whose main raw materials are polyester resins. Rivestar is a non pvc environmentally friendly 3-D laminate that can be used in laminating cabinet doors, office furniture, store fixtures, etc. Rivestar DT is a scratch and wear resistant 3D laminate that can give your office desk a seamless and more attractive design compared to traditional laminate.

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"The biggest issue over the years has been trying to match melamine with vinyl. It has always been a challenge and it has definitely gotten better. I think that suppliers have realized how important it is to our business to have that kind of coordination."

BARRY WALBURG, VICE PRESIDENT OF SPECIALT Y PRODUCTS

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Tafisa works closely with 3D laminate (vinyl) companies to ensure precise matching to all new melamine designs. The combination of appealing woodgrain designs along with the availability of matching products is key in encouraging wide-spread usage of these products in household cabinetry solutions.

Tafisa's versatile designs are showcased in the tailor-made storage units found throughout the home from garage to bedroom, as illustrated here.

MDF, the board is often ready for the next step in the process without additional sanding. Then comes the adhesive. “We have a machine that does it all. It’s a Cefla and it basically applies the glue robotically.

We are going for consistency, which allows us to produce quality,” says Walburg. Windquest always uses the same adhesive for accurate timing and predictable performance. Finally, the piece is put through a Wemhöner membrane press that wraps the vinyl (PVC) film around the MDF, resulting in an extremely durable decorative surface that hugs the contours of the routed panel. The fit is so true that the surface of the board must be flawless. “We use a lot of Flakeboard’s Superior Plus boards,” says Tallman. “We tried using a lower grade board and found that we really need to use the best we can get to ensure we are putting out a good product. Our quality expectations are high, we don’t want to see any ‘orange peel’ through the vinyl.” The box panels and shelves for ORG systems are made out of industrial-grade particleboard and finished in TFM. While software and careful distribution help to create, manage and fulfill ORG dealers’ orders, it is the development of matching programs from the vinyl and TFM suppliers that have allowed Windquest to expand their design offerings. Walburg says, “The biggest issue over the years has been trying to match melamine with vinyl. It has always been a challenge and it has definitely gotten better. I think that suppliers have realized how important it is to our business to have that kind of coordination.” When ORG recently added new designs to their product offering they paid attention to trends, for example darker colors and fruit woods are hot right now, but they also made certain that each design could carry through to all the surfaces. Generally, melamine drives the color pattern and vinyl matches the melamine. To increase the chance of having the necessary pairings Windquest deals with many different suppliers. In the realm of melamine Roseburg, Tafisa and Flakeboard (among others) all actively work to match other products. For vinyl Windquest deals primarily with Omnova, Renolit and Riken; and uses whoever has the best match on a design-by-design basis.

As a manufacturer of goods that end up in peoples’ homes, Windquest understands the value of environmentally friendly business practices. All the composite panels used in manufacturing ORG products contain 100% preconsumer recycled wood fibers (also available in NAUF) and are Environmentally Preferable Product (EPP) certified by the CPA. ORG is also an EPP Downstream licensed company, in addition to being a member of the Green Building Council. “We want customers to feel good about bringing our products into their homes. Even if they don’t understand the acronyms, they know it is something about being “green” and that is very important to some people,” says Tallman. ORG products are also designed to be long lasting, which provides clients with peace of mind and reduces waste over the long term. Customers know that as their families grow and change their ORG components can be rearranged or relocated, but they will not need to be replaced.

Holland Michigan with its picturesque lighthouse and small-town charm, is a great place to raise a family or retire. It is a reminder of less complicated times. Maybe it is the proximity to all that wholesome living that encourages Windquest to make products that simplify everyday life. From the top down Windquest facilitates wide-spread organization. They make selling products easy for their distributors by providing all the necessary marketing materials and software to complete consultations for clients. And the ORG line, with its beautiful furniture-quality finishes, makes it simple for customers to find storage solutions. Instead of shopping around for the perfect fit and style, clients can create furniture that suits their lives, from the comfort of their own homes. Talk about well organized. s&p

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We’re back in the spotlight, but you’re the one who will hear the applause.

(We’re okay with that.)

Premium MDF and HDF

A little of us goes into everything you make.

Call (800) 373-4383 today to find out how our superior boards can give you a superior product. www.clarionindustries.com

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The Technological Advantage B Y

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indquest Companies has earned their place at the top of the home storage niche by carefully growing their business in response to the demands of the market. Over time Windquest has purchased the necessary equipment to support their growing Easy Track and ORG branded business. They also make use of matching programs from melamine and vinyl suppliers to offer consumers a wide range of designs. Now with a well-established manufacturing repertoire, they seek out specialty work that fits the same machinery and materials already used in daily production. In addition to the personalized storage solutions, Windquest's Specialty Products division is a high-quality, responsive partner for custom laminated panels and components.

Barry Walburg, Vice President of Specialty Products explains that first Windqest looks at what dealers need, then makes sure that the company’s technology fits those requirements.

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“One example of that is with the point to points we added recently. It is a real quick change over so we can do one to quantity, we can do 50 or 100 quantities. The fast turn around means we are geared to making things immediately, to making use if the ‘just in time’ capabilities of the equipment. Not only are orders completed quickly and correctly, but they fit with what customers are willing to pay.” That same technology benefits customers on the Specialty Products side of the operation.

With an integrated manufacturing line, end products that used to take hours to manufacture can now be made in minutes, increasing capacity and reducing labor. This significantly increases productivity, making it possible to sell a wide range of value-added panels to outside companies. Specialty Products customers have unique needs. They include businesses that make retail store fixtures, point of purchase displays, RTA furniture, office furniture and cabinetry. While each

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“We really look at it from a customer needs perspective,” says Walburg, “if a customer is looking for a panel to be shaped in a certain way we’re going to figure it out. We can modify the equipment to fit that need.”

Barry Walburg, Vice President of Specialt y Products, Windquest Companies

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Rack & Roll with Smartech Fans of Smartech are jumpin’ and jivin’ because we’ve taken the guesswork out of how to store and deliver rolled thermofoil and other materials efficiently.

Smartech’s HS-Series Motorized Roll Rack keeps rolled materials – such as RTF, fabric, paper or anything else – quickly and easily accessible. We tailor each rack to meet your specific needs – with capacity ranges from 10 to 46 rolls depending on the diameter. Other options include automatic roll retrieval and a cut-to-length system that save time and eliminate waste.

of these market segments relies on specialized components, it is it is unrealistic for all of them to invest in the machinery necessary to make them. Windquest’s advantage is the ability to produce components in a cost effective way. “We really look at it from a customer needs perspective,” says Walburg, “if a customer is looking for a panel to be shaped in a certain way we’re going to figure it out. We can modify the equipment to fit that need.”

Windquest has developed a turnkey operation for panel processing, from fabrication through to laminating. They offer their Specialty Products customers a full gamut of services from routing through finished products. Some clients use Windquest for only part of their individual product line, for example in many cases companies out source their laminating to Windquest. In addition to the 3D laminate capabilities, Windquest also has laminating lines from Harlan for melamine foil and vinyl and Black Brothers laminators for HPL. To compliment their laminating lines Windquest offers both straight and contour edgebanding and T-moldings of edges.

Then form your RTF with top-quality Steinbach membranes. A wide range of sizes in both silicone and natural rubber are ready for immediate delivery.

Different silicone durometers and textures are available to meet every press requirement. We can also customize the size – and even arrange to stock it for hassle-free convenience!

Sound like music to your ears? Visit our website at www.smartechonline.com or call 704.362.1922 for more information.

Smartech is the source For Steinbach Membranes.

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Why Laminate with AACC Hot Melt Adhesive Coatings?

YOU’LL SAVE MONEY! With AACC hot melt adhesive coatings, your total lamination cost is lower than “wet glue” – or any other glue system. Check out the AACC advantage: • 260° F heat resistance • Moisture resistant • Smooth appearance (no orange peel look) • Less than 1% waste

WINDQUEST'S MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT INCLUDES, TOP TO BOTTOM: CEFLA LINE, WEEKE BHP AND WEMHONER PRESS.

• Environmentally safe

Our 22nd Year!

Free Services • Free online tracking of your inventory at our plant • Free lab testing of laminations made with AACC Hot Melt • Free laminator operator training • Free quality control seminars in your plant Send for our cost comparison of AACC hot melt vs “wet glue” for paper-to-board lamination.

See us at KBIS Booth B3914

American Adhesive Coatings Co.

12 Osgood St. • Lawrence, MA 01843

Ph: 978-688-7400 • Fax: 978-691-5015 AACC@Tiac.net • AACC-Hotmelts.com

Although no single operation can offer every conceivable type of panel fabrication and finishing, Windquest provides many manufacturing solutions to their Specialty Products customers. In fact, some companies take full advantage of Windquest’s complete start- to- finish capabilities to specify and purchase products that are then sold under a private label. Other customers use Windquest’s manufacturing services to handle their CNC routing, machining and drilling needs. Windquest has three multiple-head CNC routers, two point-to-point machining centers a Biesse Technologic Feed-thru 32mm drill and a Morbidelli Feed-thru 32mm drill.

When Windquest opened for business over 25-years ago fabricating and laminating panels as an OEM was their primary function. Now they have evolved into a company that carries two highquality branded lines in addition to the original Specialty Products offering. The same technology that Windquest has invested in to support the Easy Track and ORG home storage dealers also strengthens their ability to serve the outside markets that depend on them for custom laminated panels and components. By maximizing the production of their manufacturing lines Windquest has gained a distinct technological advantage, that allows them to efficiently produce high-quality, custom valueadded panel products to a wide range of customers. s&p

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Collins Almanor Forest in California

n No Added UF Resins n CARB Phase One Certified n FSC-certified n Other Collins FSC-certified products include softwood, hardwood, siding and trim.

Contact:

800.547.1793 Chris Bailey cbailey@collinsco.com

Mike Shuey mshuey@collinsco.com

Cindy Wigen cwigen@collinsco.com

Guaranteed consistent and smooth. Every board, every time. n High Percentage of Western Pine

Excellent machinability, light color.

n Fast Turn-Around

Save money, keep inventories low.

CollinsWood.com

n Premier Customer Service

SCS-COC-000085

Get what you want, when you want it.

n Exceptional Product

Manufactured from 100% post-industrial waste. circle #14 on reader service card

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CustomCabinetry, from Box to Finish B y

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S u z a n n e

V a n

G i l d e r

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lain and Fancy Custom Cabinetry blends artisan skills with automated technology to produce some of the finest high-end custom cabinets available today. What started over 40 years ago as a small family-owned business in a garage has grown into, well, a small family -owned business in a state-of-the-art 225,000 square foot manufacturing and finishing facility. Plain and Fancy is successful not due to its size, there are certainly far bigger companies out there, but because of their quality and service. This manufacturer understands that custom means choices, and Plain and Fancy has built an operation that is the epitome of innovation and efficiency to meet the widely varied needs of the end user.

Plain and Fancy’s story is not just about growth, it is about evolution. In the niche of high-end custom cabinetry it is crucial to stay on top of new developments in machinery, materials, software, functional hardware and design trends. It is equally important to maintain symbiotic business relationships and excellent customer communication. In the beginning John Achey, founder of Plain and Fancy, prided himself on building high-quality custom cabinets from start to finish for his friends and neighbors. Not a lot has changed. Plain and Fancy still has a lot of vertical control over their products; that is to say that with rare exceptions, they manufacture and finish all the components that go into their custom cabinet systems. However in the past 40 years they have experienced a market shift from “up the street” to uptown, with a reputation for being one of the most sought after, high-end cabinet makers in America.

Designing the Dream

Every cabinet project begins with an idea. In the case of Plain and Fancy Custom Cabinets 90% of the projects are remodels; and more often then not the idea is facilitated by a design professional.

Particularly in the case of sophisticated kitchen design, an architect or designer provides the homeowner with the expertise to create a space that expresses the homeowner’s unique personality while satisfying the practical necessities. According to Mary Grace, a kitchen designer who works with the Plain and Fancy line, most people spend on average a year planning a kitchen remodel. Before clients ever set foot in a design center they typically research on their own using the internet and design magazines. Plain and Fancy knows this and implements two major print campaigns a year, including monthly ads in national magazines. It may seem unusual for a small company to have such a large voice in the industry but Plain and Fancy understands the importance of brand recognition. They want consumers to not only see their carefully created ads, but to feel the design come through the high-resolution images. It has been a successful strategy for emotionally bringing Plain and Fancy cabinetry into the hearts and homes of potential clients before the renovation begins. “When people come in looking for Plain and Fancy, they already know what they want,” says Grace. “They come to our design center with magazine in hand and ask for more information on the line.”

The design process begins with an interview. Do the clients like to entertain? Do they cook? Then specific zones are laid out (prep, cooking, clean up) to maximize productivity and minimize ergonomic

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stresses. When it comes to defining a personal style for the kitchen, Plain and Fancy boasts a 500-page catalogue of products and options, not to mention the limitless possibilities of custom finishes. In order to navigate all that information dealers use the front-end software The Kitchen Pond (TKP). This allows consumers to play around with possibilities and design professionals to create accurate estimates from the outset of a project. On the shop floor AutoCAD serves as the design software platform. In addition to TKP, Plain and Fancy is continually redesigning their website. They are currently working on a “backdoor” that is specifically created for designers where they can download tools for designing and pricing special products.

“Software is key today,” says Rick Yohn, a 27-year veteran of Plain and Fancy who has done everything from purchasing to plant coordinating and design. Internally software helps to divide workloads on the shop floor between the skilled craftsman and the machines. “We optimize our work into day batches. In some of those departments it doesn’t look like one kitchen, but it is,” says Yohn. In doing that Plain and Fancy maximizes resources and is able to produce a cabinet faster and in an easier fashion. “We have made such a large investment over the years in writing software to communicate to the shop floor, “ says Yohn, “it remains a critical issue. As this product changes and gets more difficult to build we continue to look at new avenues that will help us operate. It’s a challenge. The workforce is changing, it is getting younger, and we are working with an intricately designed product.

Communication is paramount.”

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Doing custom work is synonymous with being able to manufacture cabinets that follow the latest design trends, and advances in functional hardware often drive those trends. Contemporary kitchen design tends to exclude lower base cabinets in favor of large drawers that fully extend, providing easy access to pots, pans, plates and other nonconsumable kitchen items. Soft-close features and durable hardware has enabled this shift, which eliminates the need for bending down to access lower spaces. Lift systems have resulted in greater utilization of overhead space with the added bonus of reducing the risk of head bumping on open cabinet doors. Myriad corner systems that revolve and/or pull out grant access to those hard-to-reach places. Hardware can also add class to trash areas. “Can you imagine designing your dream kitchen and then having a plastic garbage can sitting at the end of the cabinets?” Grace asks. “Cabinets that house trash and recycle are huge, we are even beginning to see built-in composting. And these doors are used nearly as often as the utensil drawer. There is hardware available that opens with a gentle tap, so you never have to get your hands dirty.” In addition to creating solutions for kitchen spaces, these and other custom options such as elaborate islands and ventilation hoods challenge Plain and Fancy to use the best of their resources for producing both standard and unique cabinet shapes and sizes.

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corporate headquarters 161 Maule Road Tiffin, OH 44883 1-800-231-2523 website:

www.Lamtech.net

e-mail: sales@lamtech.net

Lam-Tech Tennessee Gallatin Ind. Park 1356 Gateway Drive Gallatin, TN 37066 Lam-Tech Texas 202 Martin Luther King Jr. Street Diboll, TX 75941

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"Plain and Fancy has been around for a long time, we have a fantastic bunch of vendors that supply us with the everyday products we need. Our supplementary relationships help us to fill the custom gamut."

RICK YOHN, PL AIN AND FANCY CUSTOM CABINETRY

“Dedicated to providing the highest quality 3D laminate with exemplary service and support, one customer at a time”

Photo courtesy of Kraftmaid Cabinetry, Inc.

SSI North America is a full stocking 3D laminate distributor offering vibrant solid colors, TFM matching wood grains and beautiful high gloss designs. Always in stock, full rolls or cut to length, with same day shipping. What you need when you need it, we have you covered.

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P. 973.598.0152 F. 973.598.0156

info@ssinorthamerica.com www.ssinorthamerica.com

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“We take an order and analyze it piece by piece to determine what fits into standard production and what needs to go through our specialty cutting and sanding departments,” explains Yohn. A Master Scheduler and one assistant divide the workloads between the handcrafted artisan pieces and the standard pieces that can be produced efficiently on the automated line. Plain and Fancy is a small operation, and it relies on both software and feedback from the shop floor to keep orders on track for the typical 10 to 12-week lead time. The vast majority of designers they work with have previous experience with the company. “We have long-lasting relationships with all our dealers.

They know exactly what we deliver, and that is high-quality products with consistently exceptional finish,” says Yohn. “Design professionals have a lot of faith in that. They are then able to offer their services to clients with confidence. Another unique thing about Plain and Fancy is that we deliver 99.9% of our products on time.” Anyone who has ever lived through a remodel knows how important that is.

When designing a Plain and Fancy cabinet project there are a multitude of options for materials and finishes. Plain and Fancy manufactures 100% of their face frames and drawer boxes in their own mill; in addition about 70% of their doors (raised panel and flat panel) are done on-site. The company offers four product lines for cabinet boxes: A traditional face frame cabinet that is all-wood construction featuring a plywood internal veneer core box. There is also a vinyl interior cabinet that is an old mainstay from the original line dating back to the 1970’s. These days the vinyl is laminated (on top of plywood or particleboard) out of house by Laminate Technologies out of Tiffin Ohio. Laminate Technologies specializes in this process for cabinetry and helps Plain and Fancy to fill the custom gamut. Vinyl overlay has historically been popular as it wipes clean and resists water. In addition Plain and Fancy offers their Medley line of European-style frame-

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less cabinets including a melamine on particleboard line and an all-wood veneer core line. Yohn explains that MDF is often mixed into the box construction as well because it is such a stable and environmentally friendly product. In most cases it is hidden in the cabinet and the consumer doesn’t know it is there, particularly since most face frames are made of the same wood as the cabinet door. However when it comes to painting, MDF is the substrate of choice due to its ultra-smooth surface.

Making it Come True

Plain and Fancy benefits from long-standing relationships with suppliers, such as Birchland and Columbia Forest Products for plywood and Flakeboard for melamine. “Its been a long marriage,” says Yohn.

Knowing what to expect out of materials helps Plain and Fancy to maintain the high-level of quality and consistency that have become the trademarks of their craft. As materials technology advances, new partnerships also evolve, such as that between Plain and Fancy and MDF supplier Plum Creek. “We have a great network of suppliers,” says Yohn, “Plain and Fancy has been around for a long time, we have a fantastic bunch of vendors that supply us with the everyday products we need. Our supplementary relationships help us to fill the custom gamut.” For example Plain and Fancy produces standard moldings on their Weinig molder, but relies on Enkeboll and Art for Everyday for custom moldings.

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In addition to skilled craftsman, dependable raw materials and supplementary relationships Plain and Fancy invests in machinery and tooling. A peek at the processing line reveals a Holzma panel saw, Weeke router and Unique shape and sand machine. “The key technological advantage comes from Stiles, it is just quality equipment. I like the technical background and the fact that they are usually ahead of the curve on innovative equipment,” says Yohn. WoodWop software runs the machines, using shop floor data to feed the panel saws and routers. “About 3-years ago we introduced diamond tooling to the mill for some of the top profiles for the Weinig molder, door rail and front frame profiles,” says Yohn. “We also have tenoning tools and door lip profiles in diamond to match up with abrasives on the shape and sand machine. All other tooling in the shop is carbide, being the most versatile and cost effective option available.”

Before choosing equipment for the new finishing room, which opened in 2008, Plain and Fancy did a lot of legwork. The Cefla display in North Carolina sold them on the line. “They have a wonderful set-up where we could actually run product through,” says Yohn. “We came back with a finish that looked fantastic after a half-day run, which is impressive. That made the decision easy.” The Cefla line allows Plain and Fancy to put down a consistent topcoat, giving the same look day in and day out. “Our past experiences with hand-spraying have taught us a lot. We feel we have taken a big step forward in our ability to produce custom finishes.”

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WE LIVE INNOVATION EVERY DAY.

ARCLIN ANNOUNCES 12 NEW DISTINCTIVE DESIGNS that capture today’s exciting market trends. As always, Arclin Designs are ready when you are.

Innovation applied—it’s how we work at Arclin To learn more, visit www.arclin.com BONDING AND SURFACING SOLUTIONS FOR TODAY’S ENGINEERED MATERIALS MARKETS

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"It is like having a local custom shop that provides factory-level consistent product.

Except with a better finish."

MARY GRACE, KITCHEN DESIGNER

With 104 standard color finishes and another 500-plus custom finishes requested a year, a finishing line that reliably produces quality product is absolutely critical to Plain and Fancy. Becker Acroma is Plain and Fancy’s primary supplier of finish, and has earned that position because their products respond in a very predictable way, which is necessary for consistent product. Within the realm of finishing there are seemingly limitless possibilities, beginning with a very basic stain that has been done for 1oo years and provides a very classic, simple effect.

Another popular sell for finishing is “stain and glaze.” Plain and Fancy has a base product called “clear tones” which is generally a color that is sanded through to give an antique effect. According to Yohn enamel makes up nearly 50% of all production. “Enamel is hot with us. It is a testament to our relationship with suppliers and our commitment to technology that makes that possible. For our dealers to sell enamel and know that it is going to hold up and be durable enough for a kitchen, they have to have a lot of faith in that product,” says Yohn. If stain is the simple end of the custom-finishing spectrum, then Plain and Fancy’s brush mark crackle is the complicated end. This finish requires nine steps, some done with the Cefla line and some done by hand, and results in a brand new finish that looks like it is 200-years-old.

Plain and Fancy has earned their reputation for quality by carefully balancing time-honored craftsmanship with advancing technology. This small family-owned operation has wide brand recognition, and possibly more importantly, design professionals have confidence in the 38

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products. Perhaps Grace said it best, “With Plain and Fancy I can give my clients anything they want. Often they are so happy with a kitchen installation and so impressed with the possibilities that they put Plain and Fancy cabinets throughout the home. As a designer it makes my job a lot easier. It is like having a local custom shop that provides factory-level consistent product. Except with a better finish.” s&p

Fro

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The Software Advantage M

odern manufacturing depends on software to streamline

operations. Whether the communication is to the end-user or the manufacturing line, the software must be functional and user friendly.

Sometimes a manufacturer begins with a platform created by a dedicated software company and builds a system to fit their unique needs on top of it.

Plain and Fancy Custom Cabinetry uses specialized software created by the The Kitchen Pond (TKP); an industry specific software company that offers fully-customizable packages. Other manufacturers create their own pro-

THE FRONT END

Control (CNC) machines have brought

Plain and Fancy Custom Cabinetry dealers are required to use a specially tailored software package from The Kitchen Pond (TKP).

“From the Customer to the Craftsman,” is TKP’s motto, and it offers several software bundles designed to ease the integration of information from catalog through production.

The following are some of the features Plain and Fancy uses for their front-end software.

unprecedented accuracy and capacity

Catalog Creator is a central catalog build-

to panel processing. The machines in

ing database tool. This comprehensive tool gathers all information pertaining to a company’s product catalog. All pricing, product specifications, bill of materials and graphics logic is stored within this exceptional feature.

Incredible formula tools allow each manufacturer to design their catalogs to accurately represent exactly how they have chosen to price and build their products. In addition, Catalog Creator makes it easy for dealers to quickly and easily navigate the entire Plain and Fancy product offering.

prietary front-end software to fit their sales, design and production needs (see Windquest feature for information on their ORGdesign software).

When it comes to automatedmachining technology, software is fundamental. Computer Numeric

Plain and Fancy’s manufacturing line run WoodWOP software, which is widely recognized as the most powerful and user-friendly program for running CNC machines. This software makes it easy for operators to take an idea and run it “from screen to machine.” Based on a popular user interface, WoodWOP is designed to minimize the time it takes to learn and maximize productivity.

Quick Order Entry is dealer software that creates price estimates for consumers and translates them into orders for production.

Each manufacturer develops their productspecific catalog as a database to use within Quick Order Entry. The manufacturer then has complete control over maintaining up-to-date price and product information. This unique software is designed to automatically check for updates, ensuring consistency in pricing among dealers and accuracy in ordering. It also electronically submits orders directly to the factory. The final customized version of this software is distributed to dealers and supported by the manufacturer.

Quick Order Detailer is an extremely powerful order processing application designed with the engineer in mind. This application uses the edited, confirmed order released by the Order Editor to detail each cabinet part through a 3QuiD CAD interface. It also creates an internal bill of sales to help maintain accurate records and manage materials.

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THE SHOP FLOOR Plain and Fancy is a leader in the custom cabinetry industry in part due to its ability to blend artisan craftsmanship with modern machining. On the shop floor the technological advantage for efficiently producing standard pieces comes from Stiles machinery running WoodWOP. WoodWOP â&#x20AC;&#x153;workshop-oriented programmingâ&#x20AC;? system (WOP) software was developed by a joint team of German software engineers from Homag and Weeke.

It comes standard on every CNC machine manufactured by those companies.

Built specifically for Windows, WoodWOP offers users the same conveniences of Windows applications including cut and paste functions, the insertion of processing operations and zooming. Another key feature that makes this software user-friendly is that operators do not have to interact with any code or have any background in programming.

They simply click on easy- to- identify icons that correspond to machining processes and within minutes they are able to create programs. To ensure success with the machine, Stiles provides 3-5 day classroom training for new users at their nationally recognized training center in Grand Rapids Michigan.

With WoodWOP there is no need to program the machine, only to describe the workpiece. The workpiece geometry can be quickly generated using a variety of draw functions.

There is a macro available for each processing sequence including: vertical routing, horizontal routing (if the machine purchased supports this function), horizontal drilling, grooving, recessed pockets, corner notching, edgebanding and more. Depending on the tool and the unit equipment of the machine, the machine post processor generates an

optimized NC (numerical control) program for the programmed tool. Repeated part programs, such as processing operations for fittings or standard processing sequences, can be programmed as components and then conveniently reused at a later date. Each component is only programmed once and is then available for all future workpieces.

WoodWOP is also configured for variable part programming. This allows coordinates and technological parameters to be entered not only using values, but also variables and formulas. For example, the side of a cabinet is generated only once. When a change of measurement occurs, all processing sequences, such as the drilling of a series of holes or trimming recesses for fittings, adjust automatically. In addition, each macro and each value can be linked to a condition, e.g IF...THEN...ELSE. For workpieces that are composed on a modular basis from part programs (for example a work top processing program might = shape program +connectors program + recesses program...) WoodWOP permits the programs to be ideally collated. The system does not simply string the programs together, but also optimizes the processing sequence, ensuring minimal tool changes.

To maximize functionality, WoodWOP conveniently interfaces with many third party design software packages. Essentially WoodWOP can import and convert any software program that can export a correctly layered DXF file to its native programming language. Drag and drop technology makes it simple for operators to load, add and remove programs. As the number of programs stored in WoodWOP grows over long term use, the easy- to- navigate file preview and MPR browser functions simplify file selection. The MPR browser uses graphics of the workpiece produced by each program to easily identify and manage individual WoodWOP files and whole directories.

With its user-friendly format and vast program capabilities WoodWOP software helps users to machine more efficiently and expand product offerings, and that is good business. s&p

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Speeding you to market 1-800-311-9191 1-819-475-6400 www.cdm.ca circle #19 on reader service card

CDM08-5585_Snail_ad_SaP.indd 1 Sand_MarApr09.indd 41 Project No: CDM08-5585

12/16/08 11:52:19 AM 4/27/09 11:01 AM Magazine: Surface & Panel

Colors:

CMYK

Making Kitchen Showrooms That Feel Like Home

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B Y

S U Z A N N E

V A N

G I L D E R

R

ecently Zingg Design Inc’s concentration has centered around retail and showroom design. Their multidisciplinary approach is most evident in the company’s partnership with Sub Zero/ Wolf in fashioning the undeniably successful “The Living Kitchen,” a revolutionary retail concept. The Living Kitchen features Sub-Zero and Wolf’s premium refrigeration and cooking appliances in their natural habitat, the kitchen. The appliances are displayed and outfitted with beautiful custom cabinetry, counters and floor materials just like they would be in a home; except in a dealers’ showrooms. It is a far departure from the standard “units in a row” approach to appliance displays.

Working directly with Sub Zero’s marketing team, Zingg has created a turnkey approach to its store-within-a-store concept. Zingg attributes much of the success of the endeavor to the design firm’s hands-on approach to all phases of design, development, implementation and installation. The Living Kitchen is a modular design made up of a finished ceiling, floors, walls, lighting, graphics and accessories. “They (The Living Kitchens) have been very successful in terms of presenting SubZero/Wolf’s product, which are the high-end of kitchen appliances, both cooking and refrigeration. Their products really look best when they are built into the kitchen environment, that is how they are meant to be experienced,” explains Mark Zingg AIA, Owner of Zingg design Inc. “And it is our goal to create a retail space where customers can visualize how the products are going to look in their own homes,” Zingg has been building these show rooms for the past five years, and has completed about 100 of “The Living Kitchens” in the United States and Canada, each ranging from about 1600sqft to 2000sqft in size. “We’re hoping to eventually build 400 of them across the country,” says Zingg, whose firm is currently working on five “The Living Kitchen” showrooms in Australia.

“If you have ever been to an appliance store you know how uninspiring they can be. They are usually way over lit and badly designed with lots of bland, hard surfaces,” says Zingg. With The Living Kitchen the design objective was to create a more serene, residential feel. To achieve that Zingg uses a lot of high-pressure laminate from Laminart, Wilsonart and Formica, which is good for the price point of the project and holds up very well in the highly demanding retail environment. For the vertical surfaces and built-in boxes Zingg favors a cherry wood design, which he feels makes a good contrast to the stainless steel surfaces of the appliances. It really “pops” off the wall and is good for creating a warmer, homier feel. HPL is also specified for the horizontal surfaces, including fire-rated HPL from Wilsonart that is used to build pull-out range drawers.

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The trend in residential kitchen design is moving toward individual furniture pieces surrounding the cabinetry. Zing predicts furniture grade finishes and free-standing cabinets that are up off the floor on pedestals will be the new style in modern kitchens; allowing the room that is traditionally the heart of the home to blend more easily into the rest of the house. And not just for appliances, but also sinks and counter tops. To create more of an “armoire effect” for displays Zingg has been experimenting with painted MDF finishes, particularly to give more of a separated, stand-alone look to “The Living Kitchen” showrooms.

“There are a lot of neat things out there for the kitchen,” says Zingg, “and with the advances in materials and surfaces it is possible to build out any design you can imagine.” For “The Living Kitchen” project the design objective was to create an innovative store-within-a-store experience. One that allows customers to explore Sub Zero/ Wolf appliances in an intimate setting where they can not only touch the products, but also feel how they fit into a home. Zingg Designs has masterfully created a multitude of kitchen scenarios that inspire homeowners to conceive their own dream kitchens. And they have built them in a way that is replicable and able to withstand the abuse of a retail environment without showing wear and tear. “The Living Kitchen” is truly a revolutionary retail concept. s&p 44

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Advanced Materials INNOVATIVE DESIGNS

Z

ingg Design Inc. was founded on the philosophy of excellence in distinct design and in superior service. By utilizing the latest in industry innovations and technology the firm provides prompt and timely release of high quality drawings and services. Zingg Design’s dynamic twenty-year resume is as diverse as the talent the firm employs. Exceptional staff has experience in various lines of work, ranging from retail showrooms and luxury homes to commercial showrooms and corporate offices. Zingg Design’s full service approach means that project teams attend directly to client’s objectives while providing innovative solutions inline with budgetary requirements. Their mission is to collaboratively create interactive spaces of interest – synthesizing form and function to support, motivate and inspire; and it is reflected in each and every endeavor, with great attention given to the unique needs of projects and clients alike.

Mark Zingg AIA is the President and CEO of Zingg Design Inc. He spoke with Surface & Panel about what composite panels and decorative surfaces mean to his company.

S&P: How do you specify materials?

Zingg: Well it depends on the job of course, and the budget. We are a pretty creative architecture and interior design firm, so we are always pushing our designers to look for new products out there. We see materials in magazines and going to conventions and seminars. Companies come to our office to show us new products. I think there is a lot of cool new stuff in your industry. There are many very nice-looking new surfaces, new panels. And of course everyone is very interested in the green design right now. So that has been a big focus for us.

S&P: Do you use low emitting panels?

Zingg: Yes. Our work takes us all over. Especially on the west coast, California has some pretty stringent requirements. Actually a product that we have been looking at is Kirei, they have a wheatboard product that is pretty interesting, it is made of wheat as a backer. But any of that NAUF stuff, that is a big buzz word right now for people.

S&P: Do the CARB regulations influence your work?

Zingg: Not that I have specifically come up against. I would have to say no. It seems like everything is green now. That is one great thing about this whole green movement, it seems like every manufacturer has jumped on board, there is such a wide array of products out there. I had a lot of clients who at first were concerned with the cost of going green, and now with all the manufacturers responding, that doesn’t really come into the picture anymore. There is some neat cost-effective stuff out there.

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S&P: Do you find that it is important to your clients to have environmentally friendly materials and designs?

Zingg: I don’t have a lot of clients that want the LEED design, or they want the LEED design without the actual certification. They want green design but they are not willing to go the whole nine yards to be certified.

The concept is important, but the documentation does not seem to be important to people.

S&P: What do you like about working with composite materials and decorative surfaces?

Zingg: The look of them. We’re designers, so the wide variety of designs you can achieve with composites and decorative surfaces is exciting. We do a lot of different types of projects, so each one has different budgetary and performance parameters. I am a big fan of a product called Art Diffusion from Interlam. I wish I invented that, in fact.

It is a real interesting product that just has different surface textures to it, lots of different finishes. We’re doing more with pre-finished wall panels. We do a lot of millwork design, but even in our interior architecture we are doing more pre-finishes wall panels versus vinyl wall covering or other wall textures, surfaces, paint or plaster. It seems like you can get a lot of bang for your buck in terms of design with some of these products.

Art Diffusionion is just MDF board that has been routed by a CNC machine, you can give it all kinds of finishes, you can get it unfinished and you can get big wall surfaces of it. It has a real 3-dimensional texture to it. It is a little tricky seaming it and putting together panels but you can get around that by just the sizes that you use, how you frame it.

Other things that we are interested in here are the laminate wood and metal weaves for surfaces. There is a company that we use, Ventura Enterprises, they have some real interesting sort of the 3D texture. I like that 3D texture type of effect; it is especially interesting in terms of lighting. We’re using that more in our corporate office work. Then we get into retail stuff and price point and durability becomes a lot more important, plus it is a pretty harsh environment. There we use a lot of high-pressure laminate.

S&P: Are there any other materials or surfaces that you really get a kick out of?

Zingg: Tree Frog veneers, I have been looking at them, they have a nice pre-finished veneer in wild colors. We like using different stuff, a lot of times you can use natural materials in a creative way that can really pop your design, and that’s important. Especially in retail, you want to have an environment that sets you apart from other people.

The Chemetals, we’re big on the metal stuff, we like using metal within our millwork. We are always interested in new things. There is a trend toward more furniture type wood finish or veneers, particularly for reception desks for corporations, and we do a lot of those. That trend is also true in residential kitchen design. I’ll build whatever it is a client wants.

There are limitless opportunities for design. Our firm is known for innovation, new advances in materials help to meet that expectation. s&p

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Hardware Driving Design

U

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nbeknownst to most consumers,

sible because of modern slides and soft-close

hardware laboratories all over the

features. The sleek look of handless drawer

world are constantly working to

fronts can be achieved because of hardware

engineer new products. Innovative hardware

systems that open with a touch of the hand.

makes use of the best the mechanical world

And spaces that were previously impossible to

has to offer, using leverage, compressed air

access are transformed into functional stor-

and rotational motion to grant easy access

age areas by hardware that spins and lifts.

to hard-to-reach areas. When the doors and

These examples of inventive hardware

drawers in kitchens and closets operate

were supplied by some of the major manufac-

smoothly users barely notice the hardware,

turers. Each company was asked to select a

and that is the way it should be. But when a

favorite product, which in retrospect is some-

savvy designer is looking for ways to maxi-

thing like asking a mother to select a favorite

mize space, hardware is a big consideration.

child. Most sent more then one. The following

Recent advances in functional hardware help

items were chosen to showcase a wide range

to drive designs. Trends toward eliminating

of hardware that is commonly used in high-end

base cabinets in favor of big drawers that can

kitchen and storage design, but is in no way

accommodate pots, pans and plates are pos-

exhaustive.

surface&panel

4/27/09 11:07 AM

Glissando from Lama: Gently Descending Notes With integrated damping systems and a comprehensive family of soft closing solutions Titus+Lama+Huwil hardware use senso, strato and verso to close furniture doors softly.

The “Glissando” name is derived from a musical term meaning “gently descending notes” and is applied by Lama to a motion damper which “gently slows” the door.

Glissando TL is a hinge integrated damping system that “snaps on” for toolless mounting. This reduces assembly time and increases application flexibility.

Glissando FF meets the needs of frame kitchen designs for sophisticated door actions. Designed for use on framed cabinets together with any face frame hinge, Glissando FF is a discrete design mounted independently of the hinge, giving optimal closing speed for any door dimensions and weight. It can be mounted at any time after furniture assembly so it can be offered as a retro fit option by installers.

Glissando 170 is offered as a stand-alone damper with adjustable damping force for wide-angle hinges. Glissando dampers’ discrete design enhances the look of the door and occupies minimal

Salice’s Uplifting Designs

space in the cabinet interior. All Glissandos feature quarter turn

Cabinet doors that lift to open are changing the way that homeown-

adjustment to provide optimal closing speed for any door dimen-

ers use upper cabinets. Hardware that opens cabinets by lifting the

sions and weight.

door up and out of the way have made it easier to use those spaces.

Glissando MS the last from

They also reduce the risk of head-bonking on open cabinet doors.

the range of soft-closing sys-

In addition to cabinets, lift systems make great appliance garages

tems for hinges, is suitable for

on the counter level. Salice offers LIFT, a collection of four open-

cabinets of smaller dimensions

ing systems for flap doors, folding doors, swing-opening doors and

applied where space is limited.

parallel-opening doors. The various LIFT systems were created to

Glissando MS is a stand-alone

offer alternative ways to open wall unit doors, giving greater design

damper of discrete design featuring adjustable damping force. ■

flexibility while offering better space utilization. All LIFT systems are suitable for wooden doors or aluminium-framed doors and they

Also pictured at left is Huwilift E-Strato and E-Senso from Huwil

all incorporate the exclusive Smove decelerating system for a soft

brand, exciting electrically powered lifters featuring electric opening

close. LIFT for flap doors can be used for doors with a handle or alter-

by remote control or sensor.

natively without a handle, using the PUSH self-opening system. ■

surface&panel

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Blum’s SERVO-DRIVE Waste Bin Set Even a beautiful, high-end kitchen needs a place to put the trash. In modern kitchens waste/recycle cabinets are built in to the design.

They must be inconspicuous, easy to use and able to withstand repeated opening and closing.

Blum, Inc. uses the SERVO-DRIVE drawer opening system for innovative kitchen solutions. They have created a waste/recycle bin set to simplify ordering and installation. The set comes with all the SERVO-DRIVE components needed for a new installation or retrofit, including: the power supply, power cord, wall mounting bracket, drive unit, cable, detailed instructions and a cardboard boring template.

With SERVO-DRIVE a light touch of the drawer front is all that’s required and the drawer opens by itself. When hands are full, wet or dirty it is easy to open the waste/recycle bin drawer with a tap of the hip or knee. n

Häfele “Revs Up” the Kitchen with Lemans Blind corners with difficult to operate hardware are a thing of the past with Häfele’s new LeMans. The smooth operating, full swing LeMans blind corner shelf system combines turning and swinging into one flawless motion. Top and bottom shelves pivot independently and travel completely out from the corner cabinet providing maximum access. Shelf surfaces are available in a choice of white or hard rock maple. Non-slip melamine ensures pots and pans will stay in place to create less noise. Shelf edges are sealed offering the end user easy clean up. Polished chrome railings complete the contemporary styling of LeMans. The LeMans blind corner shelf system is compatible with framed and frameless cabinet construction giving American kitchen designers and cabinetmakers access to high quality, European designed kitchen accessories. Shelves are conveniently sized for 16", 18" and 21" openings. n

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surface&panel

4/27/09 11:09 AM

U N I Q U E LY I N N OVAT I V E .

I N T E L L I G E N T LY E N G I N E E R E D. DESIGNED FOR USE.

USE AWFS®VEGAS TO BUILD YOUR BUSINESS. Put woodworking’s innovation marketplace to work for your company.

See how the newest innovations can save time and make you money. Find lean manufacturing solutions to increase yields and improve ROI. Get critical answers and information right from the source. Learn how to stay competitive in today’s economy and set yourself up for future success. AWFS®Vegas is your best, most cost-effective businessbuilding tool.

REGISTER NOW!

Visit www.awfsfair.org or call 800.946.AWFS

JULY 15–18, 2009 | LAS VEGAS, NV LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER www.awfsfair.org THE ASSOCIATION OF WOODWORKING & FURNISHINGS SUPPLIERS® FAIR circle #22 on reader service card

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4/24/09 10:28:44 AM 4/27/09 11:09 AM

Grass SENSOTRONIC – The World’s First Electronically-controlled Drawer System Grass’ surprisingly simple Sensotronic system makes it possible to design a sleek contemporary kitchen without a single handle in sight.

This electronically-controlled drawer system opens as if by magic with a slight touch. Sensotronic is an intelligent system, as soon as the automatic movement is interrupted, the drawer stops. A gentle tap returns the drawer to the closed position. n

Rev-A-Shelf Revolutionizes Closets Rev-A-Shelf’s

rotating

Lazy

Shoe-Zen is perfect for those previously useless 14" deep corners. This innovative product brings inner peace to cluttered closets. It is available in a five-shelf ladies version that holds up to 25 pairs of shoes, and a three shelf men’s version that holds up to 12 pairs of shoes. Both feature 360-degree acrylic

rotating,

adjustable

clear shelves

with shoes horns made from high grade plastic. Each set of shoe horns has individual shoe height adjustment for various shoes sizes and 360-degree rotation for easy shoe removal.

A built-in 180-degree detent ensures shoes are always facing out for ease in coordinating while dressing. The ladies version is designed for use in standard closets up to 96" in height, and the men’s version for up to 55" in height. Both versions can be modified to fit shorter height applications. s&p

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4/27/09 11:10 AM

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M a r c h / Ap r i l 2 0 0 9 – c a r d v a l i d u n t i l j u ly 2 0 0 9

4/27/09 11:13 AM

CIRCLE #23 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Roseburg does it again with the introduction of 5 new exclusive designs

Can be specified on

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in the Debut Series. The entire series includes some of the most popular designs to hit North America. All designs in the “Debut Series” are “Designed-To-Match” rigid thermal foil and edge banding. Eight designs perfectly match HPL by Wilsonart.

R O S E B u R g

HYBRIDGREEN™ PANELS

We s t e r n S a l e s T F 8 0 0 . 2 4 5 . 1 1 1 5

A World Of Panel Options Debut Series

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|

National Design Collection

|

Synergy Partners Collection

Eastern Sales TF 866.387.2646 w w w. R o s e b u r g . c o m

|

Designed-To-Match System

4/27/09 11:14 AM

M A R C H / A P R I L • 2 0 0 9

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ECCOPLAST A New RTF Material from MultiSource Laminates Inc. 100% POLYESTER OVER 50% RECYCLED CONTENT UREA-FORMALDEHYDE AND CHLORIDE FREE

Stiles Machinery Inc. is proud to introduce a new 3-D press designed for flexible production utilizing a wide range of materials.

The new Wemhöner Eagle membrane press is designed for a variety of 3-D products using veneer and/or rigid thermo foil. Ideal for a new product or manufacturing start-up of 3-D components, this press line has the ultimate combination of flexibility and productivity. Available with one or two trays, the Eagle will produce high quality components from materials such as PVC, PET, Kydek, standard rigid thermo-plastic foils and veneer.

Available in the U.S. from Stiles, the Wemhöner Eagle is supported with advanced equipment integration, Do you see the reflection of neon light on glass, experienced manufacturing or are you looking into a swimming pool? This abstract consulting as well as superior laminate design is a strong competitor to traditional materials in service and support. today’s hip interiors: clubs, bars, stores, diners and spas.

EXCELLENT DURABILITY AND FORMING PROPERTIES WIDE RANGE OF COLORS AND FINISHES NON-YELLOWING COST COMPETITIVE

© ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/CHAN TRAN

Stiles Introduces Flexible 3-D Press

Echo

from Interprint-USA

CIRCLE #24 ON READER SERVICE CARD

MoistureResistant Boise Evergreen

Echo supports a wide spectrum of colors, light to dark, bright or neutral alike, and for maximum illumination, try Pearlescent ink!

Boise Cascade employs industryleading resin technology and sets new standard for NAUF particleboard with moisture-resistant (MR) Boise Evergreen.

The second generation of Boise Evergreen CIRCLE #25 ON READER SERVICE CARD now features advanced moisture durability.

Boise Cascade employs the strictest of green practices in the manufacture of its Premium Sustainable Particleboard. Boise Evergreen champions the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) and embodies an Temple-Inland has announced the Environmentally Preferable Product (EPP). Boise Evergreen provides introduction of UltraStock- Free commanding quality and physical properties, comprises 100% recycled or Medium Density Fiberboard reclaimed fiber, and carries no added urea-formaldehyde. Boise Evergreen (MDF), a composite panel product supports up to 5 LEED credits. with outstanding machining and CIRCLE #27 ON READER SERVICE CARD finishing characteristics plus formaldehyde emission levels as low as nature herself. UltraStockFree is engineered to provide the long-run production efficiencies as well as the premium cutting and shaping performance of TempleInland’s traditional premium grade MDF panels. It produces very precise, consistent results when routed or contoured and can be finished successfully whether painted, laminated, or veneered.

CIRCLE #26 ON READER SERVICE CARD

UltraStock-Free: Beautiful MDF Results and Valuable Environmental Credits

CIRCLE #28 ON READER SERVICE CARD

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4/27/09 11:24 AM

Biesse Artech Akron 800 Precision Edgebanding for Multiple Applications The Akron 800 single-sided edgebanding machine has an extremely wide range of applications. Pre-milling with auto-set, a quick-change dualrotation Tekno glue system with pre-copy, and four-position end trimmers with Flex program all to help to speed up changeovers and optimize production.

Each unit can be fitted with automatic pneumatic or NC servo-powered devices. The central suction system is specially designed for each working unit, including the glue scraper and dynamic units such as edge trimming and rounding, delivering high levels of efficiency. The Akron 800 is also available in various lengths. A 10" touch screen or PC front end make programming fast and simple. circle #30 on reader service card

New Schattdecor Designs for Contract Furniture This year there are quite a few new trends in the contract furniture market that appear to be prevalent in hospitality and healthcare furniture as well. Veneers in milk chocolate and honey colors are right on target with what is being shown in the marketplace today. Virginia Walnut and Iceland Maple by Schattdecor are two updates to traditional woodgrains that look great in these colors. Other popular themes in contract furniture are red brown cherries, white with bold accents and a variety of shades of grey.

Schattdecor is constantly working on new designs and colors that are trendworthy and fit the current market’s needs. circle #29 on reader service card

a d v e r t i s e r

i n d e x

28 . . . . . . American Adhesives Coatings Co.. . . . . . www.aacc-hotmelts.com 37 . . . . . . Arclin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.arclin.com 51 . . . . . . AWFS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.awfsfair.org 59 . . . . . . Blum.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

www.blum.com

11. . . . . . . Boise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.bc.com 41. . . . . . .CDM Papers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.cdm.ca 25 . . . . . . Clarion Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.clarionindustries.com 29 . . . . . . Collins Companies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.collinswood.com 8 . . . . . . . Composite Panel Association ITCC. . . . . . . . . . . www.itcclab.org 22 . . . . . . Hopewell Plastics Limited . . . . . . . . . www.hopewellplastics.com 2–3. . . . . . Interprint. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.interprint.com 35 . . . . . . KML Corporation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.kmlcorp.com 21 . . . . . . Lamitech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.lamitech.com.co 33 . . . . . . Laminate Technologies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.lamtech.net 5 . . . . . . . Omnova Solutions Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.omnova.com 23 . . . . . . Riken. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.riken-usa.com 55 . . . . . . Roseburg. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.Roseburg.com 7 . . . . . . . Schattdecor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.schattdecor.com 27 . . . . . . Smartech. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.smartechonline.com 84 (BC). . . Süddekor LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.suddekorllc.com 34 . . . . . . Surface Source International . . . . . . .

www.ssinorthamerica.com

17. . . . . . . Syndecor/AET Films. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.syndecor.com 15. . . . . . . Therm O Web. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.thermoweb.com 47. . . . . . . West Fraser MDF Sales and Marketing . . . .

www.westfraser.com

45 . . . . . . Wilsonart Laminate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.whywilsonart.com circle #31 on reader service card

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ohn Aufderhaar and I sit across from each other. On the table between us sit my hastily scribbled notes. I will read over them later but I am probably the only one who can decipher my handwriting. Aufderhaar has always been very patient with me when it comes to explaining industry technology and context, which is good because I ask a lot of questions. I started my work with him in 2006, doing projects for individual clients and filling in when he needed extra editorial copy. With each assignment I received a crash course in relevant materials, a few promising leads, a nice meal and a hearty “good luck.”

As members of the media we enjoy a broad perspective of the industry we serve, and the world of composite panels and decorative surfaces is vast. Each story is a research project that not only explores the featured subject, but how it relates to every other area of the trade. By the time the final draft of a piece is edited and the highresolution images are sent to layout I feel like I have achieved a certain level of expertise on that little sliver of the industry. That is not to say I have it all figured out, but rather that over time the pieces have started to come together. It is something like impressionist art; all those little dots combine to make a complete picture.

In general Aufderhaar and I get along pretty well. We enjoy talking science (did As we zoom in and investigate the origins you know John is a trained bacteriologist?) philosophy and business. Occasionally (and evolutions) of supplies and materials we even discuss politics. Eventually though, our conversations always come back to composite panels and decorative surfaces. Where do they come from? How are and then zoom out to see how products are they made? Who makes them? Who uses them? How do they get them? Why? There made and brought to market one thing is really is no one answer to any of the above questions. They are more like invitations clear, each segment of the trade is integrally to learn about the state of the industry, how it got to be the way it is and where it is related to the others. headed from here. As we zoom in and investigate the origins (and evolutions) of supplies and materials and then zoom out to see how products are made and brought to market one thing is clear, each segment of the trade is integrally related to the others.

Frankly, we live in a place and time where as consumers we have more goods available to us then ever in history. Paradoxically, we as a people are further removed from the production of the majority of these goods than ever before. Which is not a bad thing. In fact, specialization has brought a wider variety of higher-quality goods to the marketplace at lower cost. It has allowed time for art and stewardship, even within industry. But specialization also makes individual operations dependent on one another to meet their supplementary needs. That is why professional associations, such as the Composite Panel Association, are so valuable to business.

It is a means of pooling resources to address the issues that concern all the facets of the industry. Every one of us who depends on composite panels and decorative surfaces for a living (if you know what MDF, CNC, NAUF, CARB and TFM mean without looking them up, that includes you) has a vested interest in the overall health of the market and perception of the products.

As someone who is relatively new to the industry, composite panels and decorative surfaces are a wonderland of amazing materials and applications. I can’t understand why anyone would use any other materials. I believe that the goods and services offered by CPA member companies are not just more ways of making the same products, but better ways of making better products. I also believe that as the economy turns around and people begin to carefully, conscientiously spend money there will be more demand for composite panels and decorative surfaces.

Consumers will be looking for practical, sustainable, inventive solutions. We need to make sure they know how to find them.

Shortly before I committed to Surface and Panel Aufderhaar asked me, “So, what do you think of the industry? Do you like it?” I thought it over. “Its got it all,” I replied, “innovation, technology, art, design, business, huge companies, mom-and pop shops, politics, community, environmental stewardship, big fancy manufacturing lines, intrigue.” Aufderhaar was quiet for a moment, almost reverent. Then he looked me in the eye and said, “It’s the best business in the world.”

He could be right on that one; his observations are usually pretty spot on. As for me, I look forward to the ongoing in-depth research that accompanies every project that comes my way. I would also like to offer a sincere “thank you” to all the people who have shared their expertise and helped me to track down information. And to those people I haven’t met yet, I invite you to come over and say hello the next time our paths cross. I have a few questions I’d like to ask you.

Suzanne VanGilder • Editorial Director • suzannevangilder@sbcglobal.net

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4/27/09 12:52 PM

Push to lift.

Change the way you open and close cabinet doors with our innovative AVENTOS with SERVO-DRIVE. This touch to lift technology is just Perfecting motion another way we’re helping elevate the kitchen experience.

Perfecting motion

800-438-6788 / blum.com • Visit us at booth B420 at K/BIS.

circle #32 on reader service card

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2/13/09 12:48 PM 5/19/09 2:37 PM

circle #33 on reader service card

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