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Old World Joinery

Joinery is the method used to attach two wood pieces together. Often a method used to enhance appearance, joinery is also a sign of quality and a reflection of the strength of construction. Even in an age of computers and modern technology no one has been able to improve on the methods of joinery. These methods have been used for centuries for joining and assembling fine wood furniture. Cope and Stick (shown) and Mortise and Tenon are two of the old world joinery methods used for centuries by fine cabinet makers and these same joints are used today in every West Bros. product. [TOP] A mortise and tenon is much like shaping a square peg to fit into square-shaped slot -both pieces of wood are meticulously machined to fit snugly into each other. Quality engineered adhesives are used for bonding- the wood draws the moisture out of the glue, the wood swells and helps to lock it in place. The key benefit of old world joinery is its longevity. It is able to withstand continual use, without loosening up or breaking. Furniture with dovetails does not always signal the quality of the piece. No stronger or longer lasting procedure for building a drawer exists than the English dovetail. West Bros. uses this superior centuries-old technique of secure drawer construction, as two pieces of wood are tightly joined at a corner by several interlacing pieces and reinforced with adhesive. English dovetails feature several horizontal dovetails that result in exceptionally strong joints It's almost impossible for this joint to come apart, as the constant pulling of the drawer actually strengthens the joint. [TOP]

The West Finish
One of the most difficult areas to evaluate the quality of furniture is the finish. Ironically, it is the last stage in the

 manufacturing process, but is one of the first things people notice. Most people who are in the market for new furniture may notice a piece of furniture with a finish that feels smooth or looks great or has great appearance and decide to purchase it based on these factors. But touch, Colour & Appearance should all be paramount factors when assessing a quality finish and should be considered without exception.

One of the best ways to insure the quality of the finish is to trust the name behind it. West Bros is known for our exquisite finishes, and numerous finishing steps to enhance and beautify the wood grain, to create a rich deep lasting glow. All West Bros. Furniture products offer an exceptional, synthetic "catalyzed" lacquer finish. This technology advanced finish provides the greatest protection obtainable on today's household furnishings. West Brothers Furniture goes one step further than other manufacturers to finish all table tops on both sides to prevent warping where temperature extremes are experienced, and in the finishing of drawer interiors.

Our multi-step finishing process is made up of several layers of coatings. It effectively seals the wood and provides a uniform texture and a long lasting surface that quality furniture buyers come to expect: The test results below show the catalyzed lacquer finishes' impeccable resistance to various chemicals, with unblemished results. All tests were performed on new surfaces after a minimum air-drying period of 14 days. [TOP]

Spills left on surface for 4 hours - water, alcohol, detergent, bleach, ketchup, coffee, coke, and vinegar.	Result: No Effect
Nail Polish Remover left on surface for 2 minutes	Result: No Effect
Cookware heated to 220 degrees F and placed on surface for 30 minutes	Result: No Effect

Heat Resistance

Cycle as follows:

• One hour at +60 degrees C
• One hour at room temperature
• One hour at -10 degrees C
• One hour at room temperature
• Twenty cycles at stated above - no checking

This information was carefully compiled, and it was found that after each of these tests, there was absolutely no film damage or damage to the finish.* Please note all tests conducted on product without hand rubbed finish. Colour finishes, such as an Antique Linen and Vintage Black found in our Country Funk Collection are created using a similar finishing process as other wood tone finishes. As a result, our colour finishes penetrate deep into the wood grain, instead of lying on top of the wood like painted finishes commonly used by other manufacturers. The end result ensures a more robust colour finish. [TOP]

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West Finish >Custom Doors> Floating Panels > Direct-Lock Assembly  > Environmental

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Floating Panel Construction
In making solid wood furniture, it is absolutely necessary to understand how to compensate for wood's natural tendency to expand and contract. The basic principle of floating construction used at West Bros. is to limit the amount of natural movement of the wood without adversely affecting the function of the piece by securing the joints and panels. This prevents both splitting & warping in the finished piece of furniture. [TOP]

Two examples of floating panel construction at work are:

• Door panels: By design, floating panels are unaffected by heat or cold and actually "float" within the frame, preventing any damage from occurring. Rubber space balls hold the door panel in place and centered as the wood naturally shrinks or expands within the framework of the furniture.
  
• Case tops: Care is taken to join components such as case tops and side gables so that the wood grain flows concurrently, length-wise along each piece. Some panels are cut slightly shorter to accommodate the expansion and contraction that naturally occours during temperature changes. Consistent grain direction along the panels and at each join is necessary to prevent splitting or cracking damage.

Direct Lock Bed Assembly - "The Unbreakable Bed"
 We feel that there is no stronger bed in the industry, nor is there any better bed assembly system on the market today. Exclusive to West Bros., the Direct-Lock Bed Assembly is a must for "energetic" sleepers. West Bros. beds will not wobble, squeak, or break due to a unique 'direct bolt' locking device hidden on the inside of  the side rails, at all 4 corners.  [TOP]

Fully Finished Interiors
West Bros. believes that the same consideration should be given to finishing interiors that is given to the exterior of each furniture piece. So it's not surprising that you will always find a full finish underneath all table tops and leaves, and on the inside of all drawers to provide added protection and durability. [TOP]

Our Environmental Contribution
As founding members of the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), it is our goal to produce the best possible product with sustainability in mind.  Our continued commitment to making our world a little bit greener, West Bros led the way by becoming one of the first companies in North America, and Canada's first 'Silver Exemplary Award' for sustainability.

As we continue to work with the Sustainable Furnishings Council and strive to decrease our carbon footprint, we have also developed a new cooperative relationship with the Arbor Day Foundation to encourage consumers to
get involved in their communities for a greener tomorrow. To find out more about our efforts, click here.  [TOP]

The West Bros Difference