FAQs
Questions? See below for the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
Why is there an Emerald program?
The plywood-using industry needed more availability and consistent color in high-quality Alder veneer faces. Plywood-using manufacturers across North America have been expressing dissatisfaction to all the hardwood manufacturers with the supply constraints on A & B faces for Alder plywood. As a result, manufacturers have been scrambling, looking for lumber-sliced and log-sliced options, both domestically and overseas. However, because Alder takes special handling to ensure color consistency, this widespread sourcing, especially of veneers produced straight from logs, contributed to dissatisfaction in the marketplace. Cascade Hardwood, the industry-leading Alder lumber manufacturer, has recently made significant investments in technology at its sawmills that have sharply improved the ability to identify the logs containing the high-quality wood fiber needed for the better grade Alder faces. Murphy Plywood sought a solution, and after just one initial meeting, it was apparent the two companies could craft a wide-ranging solution that the industry was crying out for. Hence, the Emerald program is now a reality.
How much volume can the Emerald program sustain in lumber? In plywood?
Murphy can increase their Alder plywood production by at least a factor of three, so buyers should avoid running into supply constraints on plywood now that there is a solution to get a significantly higher volume of faces. Cascade Hardwood makes over 75 million board feet of Alder lumber per year, so there is enough volume manufactured to meet any upturn in demand. In addition, with Cascade’s focus on supporting North American manufacturers, buyers can rest assured supplying Emerald and domestic manufacturers is a top priority.
Is Emerald available across North America?
Emerald will be available from select distributors in most major North American wood markets. As distributors and their customers embrace this unified approach to Alder supply, we anticipate the distribution reach to grow.
Is there a specific volume of lumber and plywood required to be purchased to get the Emerald line?
There are no specific requirements on the volume of either lumber or plywood to carry Emerald. However, the Color-Matched benefits are the reason for Emerald. Both Murphy and Cascade will be working together to push the combined line and distributors who commit the bulk of their Alder purchases to the program will benefit from the hard work of both companies to make sure Emerald is successful.
Is Emerald sustainable?
Emerald Alder plywood and lumber are sustainably harvested and responsibly manufactured in the USA. While Cascade is not FSC certified, the Department of Natural Resources in Washington and Oregon closely monitors our harvesting practices. Emerald plywood grades and core options are 100% FSC controlled; FSC Certified is available upon request.
Why the term “Color-Matched?”
Because Emerald plywood is derived from lumber sourced from Cascade, you can be confident that if you buy Murphy’s Alder plywood, your Emerald lumber will be a match every time.
Can I mix Plywood on my Lumber trucks?
Yes, we can mix loads of Plywood and Lumber to better service the market. The Murphy and Cascade representatives will coordinate shipments and freight costs.
Why should I buy Emerald?
Emerald is color-matched, sustainable, American-made, and locally harvested. If you are looking for Alder Plywood, no matter how big or small the project, look no further. Murphy and Cascade are committed to delivering a quality Alder product to the market, with a consistent supply and stable pricing that manufacturers can count on.
How do I get Emerald Plywood?
Contact your local Hardwood distributor to learn more!