Henri Carpenter is our town’s very own master woodworking artisan. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Mr. Carpenter to learn about his life’s work and how he protects his joy.
How long have you dedicated your life to the craft of woodworking?
Henri Carpenter: I would say that woodworking runs in my blood. It is a craft that has been refined through generations of my family. My great-grandfather was a skilled carpenter who made the finest creations. He passed down his patience and attention to detail. I grew up in a workshop and have loved the artistic elements of wood since I was young. I cannot recall loving anything else more.
What are your favorite types of wood, and what inspires your creations?
I appreciate all kinds of wood in the same way that I appreciate people from all walks of life. Each piece I make for a client reflects their unique story. I’d say my favorite wood is mahogany. Every mahogany tree contains a unique story, like a human. The richness and warmth give it luxury. It is durable and somewhat resistant to termites.
I’m sure that termites are quite an important issue for you. How do you protect your work and workspace?
Ah, yes! I am lucky to work with one of the finest pest control experts in the country, an Orange County Exterminator who understands how important it is that I protect my livelihood from termites. Through our consultations, they have taught me that prevention is key and relatively straightforward. I have a contract for regular termite inspections. I hardly spend any time worrying about termites. I can simply focus on my work and my job.
What about the workshop? Did you build it yourself?
Yes, I constructed this workshop myself with my family members. We brought every inch of this workshop to life. The only thing we didn’t do ourselves was the pre-treatment. I hired Natural Science Exterminating during the pre-construction stage to treat the material with BoraCare.
What is BoraCare?
BoraCare is the industry gold standard. I’m told that it is a borate salt solution that prevents wood from becoming a termite food source. One professional application lasts the life of the wood.
Most people don’t understand that even though wood is durable, it is still vulnerable. Termites specifically consume wood for its cellulose content. If you are a woodworker or wood art lover, you are a target in many ways.
What care and maintenance do you recommend to regular folks for their valuable and important pieces of wood furniture or heirlooms?
When cared for properly, wood pieces can last decades, even generations. My family has preserved my great-grandfather’s works, which are still in pristine condition to this day.
Humidity or excess moisture can shorten the lifespan of wood. You should also call a professional exterminator if you have any suspicions. Mud tubes, discarded wings, hollowness—these are all potential signs of a termite infestation. They are small and quiet creatures who really know how to wreak havoc.
If you are interested in a professional termite inspection or extermination, call Natural Science Exterminating today.
Natural Science Exterminating
11642 Knott Ave, Garden Grove, CA 92841