Wire-O vs perfect binding

[ktinkel]

I may be working on a book that has been produced with a Wire-O binding in its first 4 editions. The page count increases with each edition, and they are having problems with pages tearing out at the binding edge — especially since they switched from two-side coated stock to 20-pound offset.

I suggested perfect binding and use of book paper, and they are considering it. (Probably means finding a different printer, getting the job re-quoted, etc.)

Their concern about perfect binding is that the spreads do not open well. I find that to be true with some perfect-bound books but not all. Does anyone know how to spec the binding so that the book opens fairly easily without pages falling out?