FAQs
Most Common FAQs:
Q: Can I return an item?
A: Yes, within 30 days of purchase, for non-custom items. Shipping costs are not refunded. For items that are defective or damaged, contact us immediately.
Q: Can I return custom items like Name Puzzles?
A: No. Customized items are non-returnable, and all sales are final.
Q: What is your product guarantee?
A: We guarantee our products against defects or breakage. If a problem occurs, return the item (shipping paid) and we will repair or replace it free of charge. We do repairs; we do not provide replacement parts for self-repair.
Q: What type of wood do you use?
A: We use native northeastern lumber — primarily hard maple and pine, and occasionally cherry — chosen for its durability and quality.
Q: Are your finishes safe for kids?
A: All of the finishes we use on children’s products are regularly tested to meet the federal child safety standards for lead and other chemicals.
Q: How do I know what finish my product is?
A: The Finish details are listed on each product page on our website. If you’re unsure, contact us directly.
Q: Do your toys meet federal safety standards?
A: Yes, we follow all rules the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission sets, including the CPSIA of 2008. Our toys are tested every two years by USA-certified third-party labs.
Q: Are your products compatible with other brands?
A: Yes. Our NameTrains and track items are generally compatible with other wooden train systems. Cribbage pegs and mancala stones are also standard size.
Maple Landmark Wood Use & Forestry Practices – FAQ
Q: What types of wood does Maple Landmark use?
A: We primarily use rock/hard maple, with some pine, and cherry — all native species locally available in Vermont.
Q: Where does your wood come from?
A: Most of our lumber is sourced from local, family-owned mills in Vermont that practice responsible and sustainable forestry.
Q: Is your wood old growth?
A: No. Vermont has virtually no old-growth forests left due to heavy logging in the 1800s. However, the state has since reforested significantly.
Q: What is the current state of Vermont’s forests?
A: In the early 1900s, Vermont was only 20% forested. Today, it is about 78% forested, showing strong regrowth and sustainable harvesting practices.
Q: Do you use high-grade lumber for your products?
A: Not typically. We make small items and can use downgraded lumber by cutting around defects, helping preserve premium-grade wood.
Q: Do you use waste wood from other sources?
A: Yes, we also use small-dimensional wood that is cast off by other manufacturing plants.
Q: How do you manage wood waste?
A: Sawdust is given to local farmers for cattle bedding, and wood scraps are made available to locals for kindling.
Q: Why do you choose to manufacture locally?
A: Local sourcing supports sustainable forestry, minimizes transportation impact, and strengthens our community and economy — all while providing high-quality wooden products.
Maple Landmark Product Repair & Replacement
Q: What should I do if a part of my item is broken or not working correctly?
A: We’re happy to repair or replace broken or malfunctioning parts. However, the item must be returned to us—we do not supply parts for self-repair.
Q: Can I buy replacement parts for lost pieces?
A: Replacements for some lost loose parts can be purchased directly from us. Typical replacement parts can be found in the Spare Parts section of our website. Contact us for other items.
Q: Will you fix normal wear and tear?
A: We will work to return the item to a safe and functional condition. While we don't do cosmetic repairs, please refer to our guarantee for functional repairs.
Q: Can you restore an old Maple Landmark toy to look like new?
A: No, we cannot do museum-quality cosmetic restorations or match aged parts exactly. Our focus is on making the toy functional again.
Q: What if my item is no longer made?
A: We will do our best to repair it using available parts. If necessary, we may replace it with a comparable current item.
Q: How do I send in my item for repair?
A: Ship it (postage paid) to:
Maple Landmark Repairs
1297 Exchange St.
Middlebury, VT 05753
Include a letter explaining the issue, along with your full name, address, and phone or email. We’ll cover return shipping.
Q: Do I need to contact you before sending the item?
A: No advance call is needed for repairs, but if you're returning the item for any other reason, please contact us first.
Q: Who can I contact with questions?
A: Call us at 802-388-0627 or email thefolks@maplelandmark.com.
Product Safety & Finishes FAQs
Safety Testing & Regulations
Q: Do your toys meet federal safety standards?
A: Yes, we follow all rules set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, including the CPSIA of 2008. Our toys are tested every two years by USA-certified third-party labs.
Q: Are your products lead-free?
A: Our materials are below detectable lead levels (under 10 ppm, compared to the 90 ppm federal limit). However, since trace lead can naturally occur, we do not use the term “lead-free.”
Q: Do you test for phthalates?
A: Phthalates are an additive to plastics; testing is unnecessary for our wood, as there is no point. Our finishes are tested, just in case.
Q: How durable are your toys?
A: We build toys to last for generations, going beyond basic safety to ensure long-term quality and durability.
Q: I have an old toy. Is it safe?
A: To the best of our knowledge, all products we have made met the safety requirements in place at the time it was produced. Please understand that the guiding rules have changed over time. Also, keep in mind that we took over Montgomery Schoolhouse in 2001 and have no direct record of safety assurance for that brand prior to that date. Other than a Montgomery Schoolhouse rattle recall in the 1980’s, we have no knowledge of any safety issues.
Finishes & Materials
Q: What finishes do you use on your toys?
A: We use a range of finishes depending on the product. These include:
- Dye Stains: Water/alcohol-based, mostly for NameTrains. Often overcoated with urethane.
- Lacquer: A hard, shiny spray finish in clear or opaque colors.
- Urethane Varnish: A clear, oil-modified dip finish.
- Teak Oil: A quick-drying, hard-setting oil used on wood surfaces.
- Water-Based Finish: Offers protection without changing wood appearance.
- Whey Finish: A Vermont-developed, eco-friendly coating from cheese by-products.
- No Finish: Found in our Schoolhouse Naturals line, for those concerned about any added substances.
Q: How do I know what finish is on my product?
A: The Finish details are listed on each product page on our website. If you’re unsure, contact us directly.
Age Grading & Usage
Q: What does “Age 3+” mean on your toys?
A: This typically indicates small parts that could pose a choking risk for children under 3. Age grading is based on physical and cognitive development stages.
Q: Can I give a toy labeled for older children to a younger child if they seem ready?
A: No. Age recommendations are based on safety—not just ability. Younger children may still be at risk, especially if they mouth objects.
Q: Is supervision necessary during play?
A: Yes, always supervise younger children, especially when they’re around toys meant for older siblings or friends.
Local Sourcing & Economic Impact
Q: Why is buying local important to Maple Landmark?
A: Local business relationships are built on trust and mutual benefit. Money spent locally supports more jobs and stronger communities.
Q: How local are your operations?
A: From services to supplies, nearly everything we do is local. Only about 1% of our spending goes to foreign-sourced items. All of Maple Landmark’s products are made in Middlebury. Vermont.
Q: Why should customers care about “Made in USA”?
A: Domestic production ensures labor protections, environmental standards, and supports American workers and communities.
Recycling & Conservation
Q: Do you recycle?
A: Absolutely. We’ve recycled from day one—wood scraps for kindling, sawdust for farms, reused shipping materials, and more.
Q: How do you reduce packaging waste?
A: We avoid over-packaging and use simple, functional presentation that showcases the natural beauty of our products.
Q: Do you reuse shipping materials?
A: Yes! We reuse community-donated boxes, peanuts, and paper. Much of our packing material is recycled.
Community & Civic Engagement
Q: How is Maple Landmark involved in the community?
A: Many employees volunteer with local fire departments, schools, and charities. The company also donates toys and supports child-focused events and organizations.
Q: Do you host any public events?
A: Yes! For example, during Visit Santa Day, children can receive a photo with Santa.
Code of Conduct & Ethics
Q: How does Maple Landmark ensure ethical manufacturing?
A: We meet or exceed American labor and safety standards, engage employees in open dialogue, and treat all stakeholders with fairness and respect.
Q: What are your environmental commitments?
A: We actively reduce our environmental impact through waste reduction, recycling, and sourcing from responsible suppliers.
Q: Do you respect intellectual property rights?
A: Yes. We take care to protect both our own work and the rights of others.
Q: How do you approach marketing?
A: Our advertising is honest, informative, and respectful of our audience
Maple Landmark Web Store FAQ
Shipping
Q: What shipping carriers do you use?
A: We ship via USPS Priority Mail, UPS, or FedEx Ground. The carrier is selected by Maple Landmark.
Q: Do I need to provide both a PO Box and a street address?
Yes, if they differ. This ensures successful delivery.
Q: Who is responsible for redelivery or refusal charges?
A: You are responsible for any additional charges due to redelivery or refused shipments.
Q: What are your domestic shipping rates?
| Product Total | Ground | 2-Day |
|---|---|---|
|
$0.00 to $74.99 |
$6.95 |
$10 plus 20% of product total |
|
$75.00+* |
FREE |
$10 plus 20% of product total |
Note: Shipping charges on larger custom orders are determined individually.
Q: Is 2-day shipping guaranteed?
A: 2-day shipping refers to transit time only. We cannot guarantee orders will be processed same day. Contact us if you have particular delivery needs or for overnight shipping.
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes, to selected areas, see options in checkout. If your country requires us to collect and submit taxes, we will not ship to your country. For costs, please process your order through our checkout system, and we will reply with a shipping quote. Your credit card will not be charged until you confirm the order.
Q: Can I ship gifts to a different address?
A: Yes. We will include a gift invoice (no prices) in the package and email the full invoice to you. Use the comment box to include a gift note. Each gift address must be processed as a separate order.
Custom work is not eligible for these discounts.
Returns & Guarantee
Q: Can I return an item?
A: Yes, within 30 days of purchase, for non-custom items. Shipping costs are not refunded. For items that are defective or damaged, contact us immediately.
Q: Can I return custom items like Name Puzzles?
A: No. Customized items are non-returnable, and all sales are final.
Q: What is your product guarantee?
A: We guarantee our products against defects or breakage. If a problem occurs, return the item (shipping paid) and we will repair or replace it free of charge. We do repairs; we do not provide replacement parts for self-repair.
Product Information
Q: What type of wood do you use?
A: We use native northeastern lumber — primarily hard maple and pine, and occasionally cherry — chosen for its durability and quality.
Q: What type of finishes are used?
A: We use only non-toxic finishes. Our colors are stains, not paints, to highlight the natural wood grain. All surfaces are sanded smooth for safety.
Q: Are your products compatible with other brands?
A: Yes. Our NameTrains and track items are generally compatible with other wooden train systems. Cribbage pegs and mancala stones are also standard size.
Q: What age are your products appropriate for?
- Products with small parts/moving wheels: Ages 3+
- Preschool: NameTrains, shape learning toys, and much more.
- School-age: Tic-tac-toe, dominoes, and much more.
- Older children/adults: Mancala, solitaire, cribbage, and much more.
Schoolhouse Natural products are specifically designed for children under 3 who are typically still mouthing objects.
Q: How is customer information used?
A: Your information is used only to process and support your order.
- Phone numbers: Used for order issues only
- Email addresses: For contact or promotions (if permitted)
- Mailing addresses: Rarely used for promotions
Legal & Technical
Q: Are your designs copyrighted?
A: Yes. All original designs are copyrighted by Maple Landmark, Inc.
Q: Can prices or availability change?
A: Yes. Prices and availability may change without notice. We may also update product patterns as needed.
Q: What browser settings are required?
A: Cookies and JavaScript must be enabled for our store to function properly. If you experience issues, please email us.
