Many expert cabinet builders – skilled at their craft and anxious to please customers- can miss opportunities to execute the same projects in much more environmentally friendly ways. Custom Cabinetry is frequently built of quality hard-wood materials that can last for generations. Of course for the environment, long lasting products are good – they don’t have to be replaced by other manufactured products. Custom cabinet builders at our New York Custom Furniture center use several tactics to stay ‘green.’

Fortunately, the drive for more environmental friendly carpentry practices really isn’t that challenging. While lumber is a renewable resource, most carpenters respect forestry and would certainly oppose wood harvesting practices that didn’t allow for rapid regeneration. Additionally, using good quality hardwoods such as cherry or walnut instead of other, less-durable material would ensure many more years of service life for the finished product. Most customers and homeowners very much enjoy the look and beauty of these woods.

With all the attention environmentally friendly manufacturing processes have been receiving, it is reasonable to look at the furniture, cabinet building and carpentry crafts. Although wood is a renewable resource, there are several ways in which craftsmen and manufactures can improve their processes and still deliver exceptional quality handiwork. There are three primary things to look at when selecting a ‘green’ manufacturer: Responsibly Farmed Hardwoods, Recycled Materials, and Formaldehyde-free Materials

Responsibly Grown Woods – Harvesting processes that both ensure efficient use of the cut lumber while providing for rapid regrowth and reforestation are common techniques to minimize environmental impact. Because timber is a renewable resource doesn’t always mean that best practices are always followed however. So making sure that the hardwoods being used in a given project are from a responsible manufacturer/processer can go a long way.

Recycled Composite Materials – Synthetic construction materials are not new. Some are even good quality and are useful to include in custom cabinetry work when used as backing or unseen side materials. Recently, better manufactures have utilized recycled material when constructing their products, which reduces the amount of wood -fillers or other substances, required to generate the required volume or density. . Good manufacturing processes will include materials that would have previously been disposed of into the finished goods.

Core Materials that are Formaldehyde Free – Who doesn’t want to breathe air free of harsh chemicals? Composite materials manufactured under heat and pressure, have sometimes contained Formaldehyde that is used in the manufacturing processes. Technical advances in manufacturing have now allowed producers of composite materials to deliver good quality building products that don’t use Formaldehyde.

Three simple ways to ‘go green’ can make a difference! Modern manufacturing practices can be quickly upgraded to ensure a long lasting and stable product useful in all manner of woodwork and cabinetry. Achieving a higher level of environmental responsibility – even in custom woodworking – can be a simple matter!

Hat Factory Furniture manufactures fine cabinetry, wood furniture, custom kitchens and wall units to demanding clients in the New York area. Our New York Built Ins increase value and add years of enjoyment for homeowners throughout the area. Contact us with questions or visit our website!