WINKLER, Manitoba -- Elias Woodwork & Manufacturing Ltd. has announced an expansion to its Winkler, Manitoba, manufacturing location. In an effort to meet customer demand, Elias has added space dedicated to rigid thermofoil, laminate and acrylic products.

Operations manager Ralph Fehr said that it became apparent with the advent of new technically and texturally advanced rigid thermofoils (RTF), high pressure laminates, decorative laminate veneers (DLV), and high gloss acrylics, that the cabinet door that used to be relegated to the low value cabinet renovation and construction segment now has the potential to become a real upscale design leader.

“For this reason, we felt it was imperative that we invest in improved technology, space, and expertise and reinforce our position in this arena,” he said.

A “Smart Pod” press with automated unloading, five CNC routers, laser edgebanding equipment, and related equipment has now been added, along with another 30,000 square feet and about 20 employees, to enhance these product offerings.

Knowing that many of these doors styles, colors, and coatings are going into new upscale homes, there is more attention to detail and quality not normally associated with RTF, DLV, and flat edgebanded doors.

Since 2011, Elias has more than doubled their production facilities in the geographical center of North America to total over 285,000 square feet, including approximately 23,000 square feet dedicated to wood finishing using state of the art equipment and high quality finishing materials.

DLV products have just started to grow in popularity, according to Elias. One thing that makes them a possible wood alternate is the five-piece construction that is often seen on wood doors. The color options are fewer simply because more materials need to be stocked, however the look and feel of these doors are so close the real thing, they can present an option for some kitchen projects. www.eliaswoodwork.com