Project supply and specification

Veneers used in projects designed by Architects, Interior Designers and Builders often require special attention at the specification stage and extra care and control at the production stage. Specification stage. Veneers cannot be specified in the same manner as laminates and other synthetic surface materials, colours and grain patterns vary from tree to tree within each species or product group quite significantly.

Astute suppliers will:

- Ensure colour specifications are for a range of colours, not just one sample. eg, 'Tasmanian Oak veneer within the colour range identified by sample numbers 123 and 126.' These samples should be made in 3's, 1 for the specifier, 1 for the panel layer and 1 for Gunns Veneers.

- Where possible the specifier should be given the opportunity of viewing a crate or other quantity of veneer, that if chosen can be identified and allocated to that project and called up in the specification.

- Make sure the specifier understands the various matching techniques and guide them to the most appropriate method for the veneer chosen and end use application.

- Remember specialty veneers for large projects can take considerable time to accumulate in quantity, it is therefore important to keep Gunns Veneers fully informed of pending projects.

Quotation stage

When asked to quote on large volumes or specialty veneers, always ask for details of the project. Sub-contractors quoting on fit-out and furnishings for specifier projects aren't always aware of the specifier's expectations or of the negotiations that may have taken place earlier. Ensure that the quotation allows for the veneer to be supplied within a range of colours and grain patterns. Always ask Gunns Veneers for a quotation on specified projects or specialty veneers.

Manufacturing stage

When an order or orders are received check that they reflect the intent of the specification. If the panels supplied are to be sequence matched (produced in the same order as the leaves were cut from the flitch) ensure that adequate information is supplied to ensure that the layons are made and used correctly. Panels should be supplied in the order required by the customer and clearly marked to indicate the project for which they have been made.
Sequence matched panels should be individually marked.

 

Handling and storage

The successful manufacture of furniture and fit-out items from veneered panels relies on some simple housekeeping rules, it is important that these are brought to the attention of furniture makers and fit-out contractors.

- Never allow veneer, substrate and veneered panels to get wet or to be subject to excessive humidity.

- Always store panels flat, panels should be covered to avoid shading that will occur from exposure to ultraviolet light. This practice should be adopted for all stages in production.

- When lacquering finished items, make sure all surfaces are sealed with at least one coat of premium finish.

- Ensure that finished surfaces are adequately protected, particularly when delivered to a building site.

 

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