Building Products Digest - June 2002

JUNE 2OO2

Seruing building V products retailerc 8t tDholesale distributors in I3 Southern states

voLUME 21. NO.4

Building Products Digest

Specifying hordwoods

Secrets to helping builden 0nd 0rchitects select the right species for their prolecls.

l0 Siding withotrt the feor fuctor

Reossuronces c0n encouroge builders to moke the switch to fiber cemenl sidinq.

!il. l* io t!?t up in down tineg Strotegies to ride high in rough wolers.

It Olobol urood produdt.orftb

$ Urnfer/poml denond igqr

Heorty consumption of North Americon solid wood products predicted for ot leost the next five yeon

ffi Ceotgio-Pocifir sel lor spin-offr louisiono.Pocific for sell-off

G-P elects l0 split off building products/distribution businest os L-P prepores mojor divestiture.

ffi moximize relurl or invenlory.invesled dollors

You moy be oventocked ond not even know it. How io invest for les while preserving eornings. S t"rot deolers welcome louisionqns lo qnnuolconvenlion

Serving 13 Soulhern states

PUBLISHER Alan Oakes (ajoakes@aol.com)

PUBLISHER EMERITUS David Cutler EDITOR David Koenig (dkoenig@ioc.net)

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Robert Fay (rlay@ioc.net)

AO SALES MANAGER Chuck Casey (chuck@ioc.net)

ADMINFTRATION DIRECTORI SECRETARY Marie Oakes (mfpoakes@aol.com)

CIRCULATION Heather Kelly

How to Advertise

Contact our advertlelng offlces for rates:

U.S.A.: Chuck Casey, 4500 Campus Drive, Suite 480, Newport Beach, Ca. 92660-1872. Phone (949) 852-1990 Fax 949-852-0231

E-mail chuck@ioc.net

INTERNET ADS: Alan Oakes, www.buildingproducts.com. Phone (949) 852-1990 Fax 949-852-0231 E-mail ajoakes@aol.com,

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CHANGE OF ADDSESS Send address label from recenl issue if possible, new ddress and nine-digt zip co<le.

The best attributes of wood and plastic in a beautiful, natural-looking low maintenance decking product

Strong lrucs anrl natLu-lrl lclttr-rrrs ltave alu,avs lree n the tracle rnrrrlis Lrl tiurclcss bcrrrrtr \\ hrch is u'hr-Gcoclccl<'t' nou' uvaileblt' llorrr ('rLtlrric l-lrrnbcr Sales. is catching lhc cr,'c ol so urrrrrv tliltcrcnt pcoplc.

This ilistinct ianrilr oIconrposrtc de cliing proclucts loolis as grtclcl lts rlnllllal \\'rx)(l

bLrt ollcls the aclclctl bcrrclit ol bcing co nrp lc tclr tttlti rt t cr.uttrct'- | t cc.

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ancl a clriltlroorl finish that lrcrthers to a silver-gra1', (,r','tlr'tli I: rlttill.ttll('((l rrgrtirrrt irts.tl tlirtnlgc. rtltrIittq ancl cr-acliing l-ol Lrp to )() r'cat-s.

i\r,ai lirb c irr to r-reLrc-ancl-gnror-e or trarlitio rra I p ro I i I cs n ith uratching rlilings, posts ancl balusters. tlrc crrtrrc line pronriscs an eas\instalIatron ;rnc1 a corlpletch urtcgriitcci. bratrtilirl rlcr'lii rrg

S\"SI CI'II.

(icoclccli. It s inrror.rtive It's rclirrblc. It's clurablc ,\ncl r orr t]rorrghl llcirLLl\ u rts onlv sltin-clccp.

Are you getting value from your association?

I have never belonged to an association. In fact, I haven't been part of a group since probably Cub Scouts. I have attended hundreds of trade shows as both exhibitor and visitor, yet not until the past year have I ever attended association events.

During the past year, I have had the privilege of attending events in both mundane and, frankly, some pretty great places. Unfortunately, in recent years-particularly since Sept. I 1attendance at many events has fallen.

Overall, I conclude I've missed out by not being part of such groups over my career. Today, I deal with many associations, led by diligent, caring, concerned and hard-working individuals who care about their members and their industry. Some associations have paid full-time staff; others have members who donate their free time. Regardless, they fight a battle of industry consolidations, membership shrinkage and, to a degree, apathy.

What has struck me about this industry are its proud traditions and values, and the associations play a large role in upholding and continuing

those traditions and values. There would be a great void if we lost them and their work.

The drop in event attendance is worrying the associations-and worries me also. What makes delegates decide to attend or not? It seems to me there are two types of events: those that are strictly for socializing and those that are for business with an element of socializing built in. Both have a valid place.

Recently, I have asked my contacts why they do not attend events or have cut back. The most obvious answer is the economy, but there's also business pressure, cost, lack of time, and them seeing no value. So, I ask, what would make me go or send others to an event? There is only one answer: the business value it brings me and my company must outweigh taking precious time away from business (and if it's in a nice location, so much the better). All other reasons become nonissues if there is a business value.

A solely entertainment event does not mean it lacks value. Having a good time is part of the experience,

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and the ability to meet with old friends and competitors is invaluable. The fact that a company invests in you to go should be a great motivator, increasing employee loyalty and retention. However, not all meetings I have attended have created value. At the end of the day, while I would like to have a good time, I also want to learn solutions to problems that keep me awake at night, or ways to move my business forward-whether for me as an executive or for a colleague.

As with any business decision, you must ask what the return on investment will be. While it may not be easy to calculate in dollars and cents, setting event goals should ensure a return. Every company I know today controls their T & E bills, so no manager or employee should have to cost justify why they are off to an event if by attending they learn new tools, fresh ideas, industry trends, see new products and see what their competitors are doing that will increase both the top line and bottom line of their personal and/or company results. Today knowledge is king, and no company can afford to work in a vacuum. Why do some businesses grow while others retrench? Everything is relative. Cost plus time is only expensive if it brings no return.

For those who continue to question value, I urge you to speak directly with your association. Give them feedback. Provide input in designing an agenda, and who or what you would like to hear about that would make you pay to go. For those who regularly attend events, work on those around you to participate. To the associations, speak to your members who do not attend events as frequently as those who do. and understand what it is that will make them come next time round. Like any other facet of a business, events have to be marketed.

Let's all support this wonderful resource and medium for the futures of our companies and our industry.

DRILL CHAMPS WANTED Der;a t Toois rs now tour ng the country as part o1 ts l,'l ion Dollar Chal enge. ho d n-q or ing contests lor customers at area Du dlng nratefra and supp v dealers. Contestants compete to dr rre f ve screws the fastest lv th a cordiess dr Regional winners recerve a nel,l Chevv Express contractor's van : led lrth too s and a chance to compete for S1 m llion rn the nat onal run-off Scheduled stops nc ude At anta. Ga June 15 to July 6 Jacksonvrile Fl July 713. Miamr. F July 22 Io Aug.,1 : Fort Lauderda e F . Aug 5-1 1. Tampa and St Petersburg F Aug 12-18. and Orando Fl. Aug 1 9-23

REDWO0D retailers can profit from deck buildng oenerated by Ca rfornia Redwood ASSOC altO- S 1at O-a ."d,..OOr 6oeL ngn.eSl by putt ng up free po nt-of-purchase banners and (orfre'rop e"r'\ b a 't disp a1 s C o-spo-so'ed by Workbench magaz ne the contesl offers 53.000. S2.000 and S1 000 prrzes Deadline for entr es is Sept 1 6

specifying hardwoods Secrets of

If,/HATis the key to helping builders and archirecrs

V Y specify hardwood products intelligently and cost effectively? According to the Hardwood Manufacturers Association, it's understanding both the unique physical characteristics of hardwoods, and how hardwood species naturally occur in North American forests.

Smart specifiers understand that some hardwood species are more abundant than others in the forest. They realize this relates directly to their commercial availability and relative affordability. Smart specifiers know:

. Why some species are harder than others.

. Why species take stains differently.

Why some species can be finished to resemble others.

They know why hardwood products come in a variety of dimensions and a full range of grades. Most important, smart and successful specifiers apply their knowledge and understanding of hardwoods to their projects.

HMA suggests:

1. Ur. what's readity available.

Specify hardwood lumber in widely available dimensions to control costs. Generally, in any species, hardwood lumber that exceeds 10" in width commands a premium.

A hardwood tree may be 55 feet tall and 24" in diameter, but it will yield boards that are no more than 12" wide. Mouldings will necessarily be narrower than that. Larger trees may yield wider lumber, yet wide boards are more difficult to work with because of hardwood's natural expansion and contraction characteristics. Since standard minimums are 5" widths for upper grade hardwood lumber, using stock moulding profiles is an affordable alternative.

The following chart shows the availability of North American hardwood species used most often in residential applications. Higher abundance generally implies lower

cost, although some species may be more readily available in certain areas of the country.

fl 3.Use lumber grades.

You can use accepted industry standards and grading systems to describe the look your customer wants, and the best way to achieve it within the budget.

Hardwood lumber grades and grading rules have been established and are governed by the National Hardwood Lumber Association. The NHLA grading system, which is used by buyers and sellers of hardwood lumber, describes the amount of "usable" clear material in a board. The highest grade boards are long, wide and free of defects.

Boards featuring character marks are not premium grade, but they are preferred for built-ins and many other applications because they add character and visual interest. They're also a great choice for applications where wood will be painted or not be visible. Higher grades, which have few, if any, character marks, generally are preferred for applications such as fine tabletops and cabinet doors.

For a built-in desk and bookcase, specify upper-grade hardwoods for visible areas, such as the desktop and cabinet doors. Build non-visible areas-sides and interior shelves-from a variety of species in No. I Common, a lower-cost, intermediate grade priced less than FAS.

.'.i

rI. Use craftsmanship standards

The Architectural Woodwork Institute sets standards for appearance, engineering, fabrication, finishing and installation. Builders and architects need to be aware of three AWI grades when specifying work to be done: premium, custom and economy.

Most architectural woodwork is custom grade, with premium grade reserved for special projects or focal points, and economy representing the minimum expectation of quality, workmanship, materials and installation.

For example, in custom grade millwork, the gap between doors, drawers or panels and frames must be 1/16" or fess. In premium grade work, the tolerance is l/32"; in economy, 3/32" is acceptable.

Species Share of Total U.S. Hardwood Production

- Includes basswood, beech, birch, cotlonwood, elm, hackberry, hickory, pecan, sap gum, tupelo and walnut.

RED OAK is the most common hardwood for residential aoolications.

Orzercortring

tlne ttril.knor/rrril.

How to sell Fiber Cement Siding to builders

L.TOW that fiber cement has estabI \ lished a foothold in the siding market, dealers and distributors have started tackling the issue of how best to educate builders about the product.

In some cases, builders have expressed concerns about fiber cement siding, citing either unfamiliarity or a perception that it is difficult to install.

Trade contractor Luis Garza, Garza Brother Builders, Denver, Co., said, "Blind nailing was initially a challenge to the crews, although we quickly learned to hide nails from view."

Garza noted that his fiber cement manufacturer sent a representative to the job site to help train the crew.

Builders need to know

FiberCement Siding, said, "We find that in some of our strong vinyl markets that there sometimes is an uncomfort level with fiber cement siding."

Booz said that, although fiber cement installation requires different blades and is heavier than other siding, he stresses that it is not a radically different process.

According to Booz, CertainTeed has tried to address builders' concerns by creating the Master Craftsmen product knowledge/installation course.

Course materials are posted on CertainTeed's Web site and it allows contractors to study installation techniques and ultimately to take a certification test.

"Half of all our tests taken are through the Internet these days," said Booz. "Anybody in the supply chain

from wholesalers to lumberyards can direct builders to the course."

Dealers and builders can also write the company for a paper version of the course.

Currently fiber cement holds l07o of the siding market, while vinyl continues to account for 70Vo of all siding sold in the U.S.

Booz said that he expects fiber cement to own 17-l9Vo of the siding market by 2007.

PrimeSource Building Products' Vick Gulizo, who works out of the company's Jefferson, La., DC, said at first it was difficult moving fiber cement, but now there is a consistent demand.

"Some builders are afraid of how to install it," said Gulizo, "so we tell dealers to go to the job site and help

While building a housing development in the Washington, D.C., area, Bruce Davis, Bruce Davis Construction, La Plata, Md., could not get any fiber cement installers to come forward for the project.

"I had to make the commitment to equip and train a two-person cornice crew to install the siding," he said.

Davis also learned that some tools and techniques used for wood siding installation were not compatible with fiber cement.

"Electric shears perform best for cross cutting planks and carbidetipped circular saw blades are good for ripping planks," Davis said. "Masks are also a must. because the dust contains silica that should not be inhaled."

Steve Booz of CertainTeed Corp., which manufactures WeatherBoards

that installation is not fundamentally different f rom other siding.

FIBER CEMENT siding manufacturers have Web sites, seminars, courses and instal-

lation guides that can help dealers work with builders who are hesitant about new oroducts.

them. It's a great product-cuts like lumber, nails like lumber."

Gulizo said that once builders are trained to install fiber cement, many will never go back to lap siding.

Houston, Tx.-based James Hardie Building Products sales representative Brian Jones finds that if there is any resistance, it is at the subcontractor level. He notes: "The builder wants it, but the subcontractor says, 'No."'

Although fiber cement siding is the siding of choice in south Texas, Jones hesitates to say that all the crews and builders are properly trained on its installation. "It's not rocket science, but there are a few tips that can help out the installers," he added.

Jones said that James Hardie, which manufactures HardiPlank, is active in helping builders on the job site so they get comfortable working with the products.

He pointed out that builders need to know that installation is not fundamentally different from other siding. "For example," said Jones, "builders can use the same nail gun they've been using for years to install hardboard siding."

He emphasized that if dealers don't know the product, they fail to serve the builders. He said dealers can contact their manufacturer to find out about product knowledge seminars in their area.

Doc Halverson. who works out of Capital Lumber Co.'s Chino, Ca., DC, said there really shouldn't be any resistance to fiber cement siding. "I've installed it," he said. "lt's a little more intense than other installations.

BUILDERS often want to use fiber cemenl siding, but often it is the installtion crews who resist, fearing that it is too intensive or pre-

but I'd never hesitate to use it."

Halverson said Capital works with James Hardie to provide dealers with detailed literature and installation guides to pass on to builders and their installers.

Those familiar with fiber cement siding say that once a builder receives a proper introduction to fiber cement siding, the compliments usually come rolling in.

As Jon Carter, who owns Pop and Sons Construction in Georgia, said, "Is there a perfect siding for the imperfect construction world? Is there a siding that looks, paints, and nails like wood but can last through a 30year mortgage? The answer is yes. It's called fiber cement sidins."

sents nailing problems. Experts emphasize that dealers must make an effort to educate builders and their crews.

Siding Education On The Web

Dealers can now refer their builder customers to the Internet to learn about fiber cement sidingand earn educational credits in the process.

Approved for American Institute of Architects, American Institute of Building Design, and Construction Specifications Institute continuing education credits, "Fiber Cement Siding: Traditional Aesthetics, Modern Technology" is the newest offering from the CertainTeed Building Solutions Professional Education Series.

The course will assist builders and architects to better understand the appropriate use of fiber cement siding with respect to design and historical considerations. quality issues, proper installation techniques an{ manufacturing processes.

The Building Solutions courses are completed over the Internet and forwarded to the professional associations for continuing education credits.

"CertainTeed is dedicated to helping building industry professionals maintain professional association membership, maintain state licensing and remain current with new construction technologies," said Brooks Williams, marketing manager, CertainTeed Fiber Cement. "Fiber Cement is still very new in the building and construction industry. As the demand for the product grows, so does the need for professional educaiion."

Ho o ln

Tffi;i",Trfi

wading through a business downturn is to do sowithout a strategy. Business as usual doesn't cut it when markets, consumers or other conditions beyond your control turn against you. The old saw "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" is little consolation when business is slow.

Follow these steps to stay up in down times:

. Focus on your core. Rein in investment in peripheral profit centers and invest in what your business does best. Always assume your core is under-performing and you'll be right most of the time. Aggressively market to current customers. In down times one of the best ways to gain market share is to retain the customers you already have and gain their referrals.

. Don't kill your capacity to produce. The way to improve your bottom line is to maintain a tighter inventory, put vendor products/services up for bid, and improve receivables and other cash flow factors. However, resist the shortsighted strategy of cutting costs that contribute to the development of the your most valuable asset: your people. Training builds up your only sustainable competitive edge and increases your production capacity. If you reduce it. you contribute to your own demise. Training is not a luxury or a cost. It's an investment. When times turn down, take the opportunity to train up a notch.

Reduce entitlements. Reward performance. Terminate the weakest links. If you make personnel cuts, remember that tenure and credentials don't substitute for results. Reward and support those who perform. Resist the temptation to bond with yesterday's heroes for old time's sake. Fall into this trap and you send a cor-

up es

By Dave Anderson

rupt message about standards and miss a prime opportunity to create urgency and focus. The weak links in your organization determine the speed of the rest of the team.

Just as a chain can't pull more than the weakest link allows-regardless of the strength of the other links-your overall production will be compromised by your weak links as well. Weak links lower the collective selfesteem of the whole team. They compromise your standards and impair your credibility as a leader. They are a distraction; they sap morale and break momentum. The team attitude towards weak links normally starts out with "let's help him or her." When no improvement is seen, the attitude changes to resentment. Top performers feel cheapened and diminished working in an environment where others don't pull their weight.

The most devastating weak link in your organization is a bad manager. Bad managers should be given less rope because when a bad manager hangs himself he tends to hang a lot of other good people with him. Use down times as a chance to clean up your roster.

Cut once. If you reduce expenses this month by cutting out free Cokes and bottled water, then two weeks later eliminate company cars, then next month fire the cleaning service. it's like chinese water torture. All it does is continue to distract, demoralize and disrupt. Figure out what you want to cut and get it over with. This includes personnel cuts.

Once you've finished, bring everyone together. Explain what you've done and why. Tell them to put it behind them. Reassure them that everyone and everything that remains has been strengthened by these cuts. Now that they are finished, everyone

can focus and get back to work.

Don't develop a loser's limp. Don't blame outside conditions to escape responsibility for your current ills. A downturn always exposes the sins of the good times. These past record years in our economy have created their share of fat, arrogant, complacent know-it-allswho never thought they'd see another poor day. They stopped training hard and making tough decisions and changes. They became averse to risk, maintained rather than stretched, and turned a blind eye to poor performers because business, overall, was good.

Until you and the other managers accept that the biggest threat to your organization comes from the inside and not the outside, you will continue to misdiagnose and mistreat your most serious problems. Typical ones include: lack of leadership, hiring standards. performance expectations. accountability, a cohesive leadership team at the top, vision, strategy, urgency, people-development and a growth environment. These are the inside threats you must go to work to eliminate day-in and day-out.

. Stay positive. Management will multiply the damage and compound morale problems if they tenorize people with threats. excessive criticism and lousy attitudes during slow times. Remember what good coaching is: leading from the front with plenty of speedy, positive reinforcement for worthy performances. A good coach uses honest communication to encourage, motivate, listen and direct. Good coaches give fast feedback and consequences for deficient performances.

. Stay focused on the big picture and remember foremost that the best time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining. When better times return it's not a license to coast, become complacent and think you've arrived. Instead it's the best time to train, coach, clean up your roster, set standards that create urgency, make the tough decisions, implement necessary changes, take risks and lead from the front. If these things are done when things are rolling people will stay sharp and focused. Let them know there's still room to improve. When business starts to pick up again, develop a mindset to run up the score rather than sit on the ball.

A peak performance trainer and speaker, Mr. Anderson is the author of No-Nonsense Leadership: Real World Strategies to Maximize Personal and Corporate Potential. For more information. s e e www. lertrntole ad. c om.

(Palm Springs), Ca. (1) Bruce Frost, Thomas Wilson, (2) Jim & Dawn Summerlin, lsac Zugman. (3) Romel Bezerra, Rod Reader, Gary Penberthy. (4) Leonard Arnold, John Taqqart. (5) Buniadi & Francisca (5) Arnold, ( Makmul, Vincent Busono, Carl & Deann Gade, Annette Ferri. (6) Pat Bennett, Leon Hanyi. (7) Joseph Morelli, Rodney Newman. (8) Michael Richardson, Michael Corsello, Scott Watson, Paul Gosnell. (9) Drago Bozovich, Jeff Heinemann, John Vick. (10) Carole Chai, Jim Trussell. (11) Wendy Baer, Manoel Sobral Filho. (12) Turid Biornstad, Christian Mengel. (13) Doug Rogers, Stephen & Kathleen Conowall. (14) Robert Steber, Douglas Trager. (15) Chris Connelly, ' Jack Clark. (16) Douglas Asamany. (17) Attah ssan. (18)Jeff Gillespie, Robert Klodosky. (19) Kusmahto Wirianata,

MORE THAN 250 members and ouests attended the Products Association's annual cbnvention Aoril 17-

Alhassan. Dick Polsby, Chiu Lai Chun. (20) David Aquino, D.J. Reynolds.

lnternational 19 in Indian Wood Wells

Soqring demond should keep lumber qnd pqnel prices slrong

fr OOD times loom over the next lLftiu. years for North Amerrcan solid wood products as a demand-driven market pushes prices higher, according to a new report by International WOOD Markets Research and R.E. Taylor & Associates.

"The main driver for the solid wood products sector will be the positive outlook for U.S. wood products consumption that is predicted to remain strong through to 2004," explains Russell Taylor, publisher of the 600-page WOOD Markets 2002: Solid Wood Products Outlook to 2006. "Supply-side dynamics are expected to be more balanced relative to demand (as compared to the over-supplied conditions in parts of 2000 and '01) leading to fumer and/or stronger prices for most wood products."

After persevering through the market crash in tech stocks in 2000 and then the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the U.S. now appears poised to return to a robust, sustainable growth. A key contributor to the recovery is the residential building sector, where prospective homebuyers have been taking full advantage of 40-year lows in mortgage rates since fourth quarter 2001.

Housing starts of 1.603 million in 2001 are forecast to rise progressively through to 2004, reaching 1.69 million units-the highest level since 1986. GDP growth should reach I .2Vo in 2ffil.2.lvo in2002 and 3.8Vo in 2003.

The growth of the economy may have a down side where it may be limited by inflation, potential labor shortages and rising energy costs. Such factors may force the Federal Reserve to rein in the economy by tightening money supply and raising interest rates. o'However," says Taylor, "the improving economic outlook in the U.S., Europe and many regions of Asia is expected to bode well for wood products demand and commodity prices. Lumber, plywood and OSB panel prices should see stronger prices in 2442, peaking in 2004. MDF and particleboard will not see any real price improvements until 2003."

Globol Supply

The world is not running out of industrial timber."In fact," says Taylor, "the globe has generally been awash in pulpwood, sawlogs and veneer logs for most of the second half of the 1990s and into 2OO0l2OOl;'

Regional shortages have been sporadic and short-lived, keeping real log (and, for the most part, commodity wood products) prices subdued. Most experts do not predict any global timber shortages in the decade ahead and, in some cases, not for two decades. However, with Russia's mainly undeveloped forests representing about half of the world's standing softwood timber, the potential of more investment to that region could alter the global supply/demand balance sooner.

The

U.S. now appears

poised to return to a period of robust and sustainable growth.

materially over the next l0 years.

Softwood log production/consumption rates indicate that fiber-deficit regions are Asia and North America. Surplus areas are Southern Hemisphere plantation regions and Russia./ Northern Europe. About 5Va of the world's forest area is in plantations. "Today," Taylor adds, "plantations are estimated to be producing about 357o of the world's industrial roundwood supply. a figure projected to reach 44Vo by 2020." Global timber plantations have increased more than tenfold in area during the last 20 years.

In 1995, Russia replaced the U.S. as the world's largest log exporter and in 2001 China replaced Japan as the wodd's largest log importer-trends that should continue. North American Iog exports have declined by 4OVo since 1989. Europe had the largest volume increase in exports (+817o), but trade is mainly between European countries. The largest percentage increase in exports was by Oceania (mainly New Zealand) at?ffi+Vo.

Overall global population and economic growth will continue to increase industrial roundwood (logs) consumption. However, new pulping, composite wood and veneer/paper overlay technologies are producing more efficient products that use less wood fiber and/or lower-cost wood resources not previously considered part of the industrial roundwood supply base. Consequently, the supply base is expanding in new areas, as previously non-usable fiber becomes economically viable and new plantations yield increased volumes of fastergrowing roundwood for superior, technologically enhanced products. These global trends should lessen demand for o1d-growth, higher cost logs.

Average global roundwood prices have generally been decreasing since 1993 as the rate of increase in supply has exceeded the demand growth. This trend is not expected to change

There is a growing concern that the U.S. and Canada have lost their costcompetitive advantage as industrial roundwood and/or manufactured wood product exporters. "This may not be as serious a problem for U.S. manufacturers," says Taylor, "as inereasing internal demand provides a good market for non-competifive exports. Canada, however, must export more than 60Vo of its production to retain its current industry size and scale."

The global qnvironmental movement and certification process are increasing pressure bn the indusoy to reduce native or old-growth harvesting, implement sustainable forestry practices, and increase the world's forest cover-all issues producers must address in the next five years.

Noilh Amedcon ffiroods

The report predicts a relatively optimistic U.S. lumber market scenario through 20M, assuming that a number of key economic and supply responses occur. "The end result is

that rebounding U.S. housing starts, and repair and remodeling activity, will drive lumber consumption higher through 2004," says Taylor. "This will allow lumber prices to move up to stronger levels than those experienced in 2001-though not as high as the glory days of the mid- 1990s."

The greatest unknown element in the forecast (finalized in late Feb.) for North American softwood is the outcome of U.S.-Canada trade negotiations, which affect the supply response of Canadian. U.S. and offshore importers, not to mention the "floor price" of lumber. However, the greatest economic drivers impacting the forecasts are still the growth rate of the U.S. economy and the strength of the U.S. dollar. These factors will also influence sawmill capacity and operating rates, which both can quickly alter the supply/demand balance in a positive or negative way.

Strong housing starts, fueled by a robust economy, will move lumber consumption to new record levels in 2004. While U.S. lumber consumption is forecast to increase by only 300 million bd. ft. from 2001 to 53.9 billion bd. ft. in 2002, demand by 2OO4 should reach a record 56.7 billion ft.

Lumber consumption will also occur in repair and remodeling, which uses about 3OVo of all North American lumber. Predicted is a gain in demand of more than I billion ft. from 2001 to 20014 (from 16.3 to 17.4 billion ft.).

While capacity levels at many North American sawmills have been increasing over the last few years as a result of technological upgrades, the economics of sawmilling will continue to be one of the major factors limiting production levels in 2001 and 2002.

The North American production forecast is for steady advances from 2ffi2 to 2OO4 to reach. a record 66.1 billion bd. ft. This compares to a 1999 peak of 65.5 billion ft. and 2001's 62.6 billion. Canadian output should rise 1.8 billion ft. from 2001 to 29.8 billion in 2004, while U.S. production climbs 1.6 billion ft. to 36.2 billion.

Price are not forecast to reach record levels (although it is possible if 29Vo duties are maintained on Canadian lumber exports to the U.S.). However, on average they should offer good returns to producers.

Strucfurol Ponels

The outlook also appears strong for North American OSB and plywood in 2002 and 2003. On the supply side, ilo new OSB capacity is scheduled to

start up until mid-2003, keeping production levels steady in the short-term. As a result. higher prices are anticipated in 2002 and 2003. with favorable prices still expected in2004.

"Structural panel consumption is expected to rise almost unabated over the next five years given generally positive economic and housing outlooks," Taylor adds.

Structural panel production capacity will continue to grow to keep pace with overall North American demand, although supply may lag behind demand in 2002 and especially 2003. No new OSB mills will start up in 2002, as most companies were scared off a few years ago by the threat of over-capacity. The next wave starts with new capacity installations between mid-2003 and 2005-06, when 10-ll mills are scheduled or planned, representing almost 8.5 billion sq. ft., an increase of 40Vo from 200 I

OSB attained a 557o market share of North American structural panel consumption in 2001, compared to just 27Vo in 1990. OSB should hold 65Vo of the market by 2008. North American OSB production reached 21.65 billion sq. ft. in 2001-double that of 1994 and tripling 199I's level.

OSB output should rise by another 6 billion ft. by 2006 to 21.6 billion ft. Plywood will remain under pressure and need to fit around the peaks and valleys of the OSB supply/demand balance. Following the sharp 2+ billion-sq. ft. cutback in plywood production to 17.8 billion ft. in 2001, further reductions are expected to be less dramatic. From 2OO2-2006, ongoing reductions in North American plywood capacity totaling at least I billion sq. ft. are expected-and more if markets are weaker than forecast or if additional OSB capacity is installed.

As in the pulp and paper industry, industry-wide planned or scheduled curtailments may limit the downside on prices. Improving prices are expected in 2003 and into 2004, as rising consumption improves the supply/demand balance.

Non,Struclurol Ponels

With economic conditions expected to improve rapidly in the U.S. in20022004. the dismal conditions of the North American particleboard market that existed at the end of 2001 should enjoy a reversal. Over the next five years expect steady growth in both the U.S. and Canada for particleboard, with new or proposed capacity coming from agricultural fibers (wheat, straw,

etc.). As a result, output of North American particleboard is expected to exceed 7.2 billion sq. ft. by 2006-l billion ft. higher than 2001.

During the last 20 years, North American MDF production growth has averaged l87o a year. Output reached 2.4 billion ft. in 2001 at 28 mills and may hit 3.2 billion by 2006.

A surge of new MDF capacity began in 1995. By 1997 the market was awash in product. The capacity glut still exists, but 2001 was the first year since 1996 that prices moved off the floor. While a few new MDF projects have been completed in recent years and others are being considered, most are expansions of existing mills, diversification into thin board, or construction of specialized plants using alternative fiber sources.

Over the past 15 years, imported MDF has supplied only 3%-57o of total domestic usage of MDF in any particular year. Since 1997, this relationship has changed, with MDF imports now poised to capture more than 3OVa of total U.S. consumption in 2001. This fundamental shift should continue due to the MDF capacity in Canada and lower-cost offshore countries. Canadian particleboard output is forecast to climb slowly but continuously, reaching almost 2 billion sq. ft. in 2006 versus 1.57 billion ft. in 2001. With no new capacity in the works since 1998. Canadian operating rates at MDF plants have been improving steadily, from a dismal TOVo in 1997 to 847o in 1999,857o in 2000 and 867o in 2001. By year's end, operating rates should rise to 9OVo, the highest level since 1994. They should get even better h 200312004, reaching 92Vo at a time when prices are likely to be approaching their cyclical peak.

Particleboard imports have been low, but increasing with the strength of the U.S. dollar. Rising imports come from various regions, including South America, Europe and even Asia. MDF imports have also surged over. the last few years, with Canada's market share of U.S. imports dropping despite large increases in its exports south of the border. Off-shore MDF suppliers include Germanyo Chile and New Zealand.

After the price spikes of 1995 and 1996, panel prices moved closer to cost between 1997 and 2001. Taylor anticipates stable particleboard prices in the short term. Over the next five years, excess capacity plus more stable consumption levels will keep particleboard and MDF prices in check.

Rrrlrrrns

Henson Building Materials, Forest City, N.C., has acquired American Builders Supply, Granite Falls, N.C., as its 6th location; Calvin McKinney, mgr. ...

Twin Oaks Hardware, Austin, Tx., has closed after 2l years in business...

Safrit Building Supply, Beaufort, N.C., has broken ground in Jacksonville. N.C.. to consolidate its two smaller stores in town. Jacksonville Building Supply and Square One Lumber;the new Jacksonville Building Supply should open in early spring 2003, reports Leonard Safrit ...

Hope Lumber & Supply Co. has acquired Wickes Lumber Co.'s Harlingen and McAllen, Tx., locations

84 Lumber is looking to build a 19,000-sq. ft. building with retail and warehouse space on l0 acres in Tampa, Fl. ...

Stanley Lumber & Hardware, Stanley, N.C., has closed ...

Kobrin Builders Supply, Orlando, Fl., has applied to build two additional buildings, totalling 37,000 sq. ft., at its operation in the Greenland Park section of Jacksonville, Fl. ...

Wilson & Sons Building Supplies, Russell Springs, Ky., is adding a new building and plans to remodel its existing facilities ...

Wolfe Nursery, San Antonio, Tx., is closing its eight retail nurseries after filing for bankruptcy late last year

Home Depot this month opens new home centers in Loganville, Ga.; Winston-Salem and Winterville (Greenville), N.C., and an Expo Design Center in Nashville, Tn....

Home Depot has acquired 24 acres in S. Austin, Tx., and paid $10.8 million for the 25-acre Midtown Square mall site in Charlotte, N.C., to build an Expo Design Center

Lowe's Cos. opens new stores late this month in Snellville. Ga. (Dennis Crawford, mgr.); Smyrna, Tn. (Brenda Weddle, mgr.), and N. San Antonio, Tx. (Jeff Loudon, mgr.)'.'

Lowe's has acquired pud $7.26 million for a large site in Kissimmee, Fl., to build a new store by next spring and filed a tax suit challenging an appraisal of its regional DC and property in Mount Vernon, Tx.; the company claims the appraisal was more than one-third higher than the market value ...

Hope Lumber, Oklahoma City, Ok., co-sponsored the East Area Council Festival of Homes ...

Congleton Brothers Pro Hardware, Beattyville, Ky., was awarded the Paul L. Cosgrove Memorial Award by Pro Hardware ...

Wror:srurns/trrurrcrurrrs

Weyerhaeuser Co.plans to completely merge all former Willamette Industries operations into its company by June 30

Hassinger Wholesale Co., Greensboro, N.C., is closing after 50 years and auctioning off its remaining assests and inventory; Bill Hassinger, Jr. is retiring after 44years with the company

FAX us your news!

Have a notice of your recent expansion, promotions or other company changes published in the next issue of Building Products Digestl Just FAX vour news to 949-852-0231.

Pat Brown Lumber Corp., Greensboro, N.C., has been renamed Patriot Timber Products

Coastal Lumber sold its SYP sawmill in Thomasville. Al.. to former mill mgr. James Dixon, who hopes to reopen this month as Thomasville Lumber: the facilitv closedlastfalldueto afire ... -

Boise Distribution has relocated its Greensboro, N.C., DC to alargerfacility...

Blue Ox Products, Kernersville, N.C., has been renamed Stock Components, three years after new owners acquired the truss plant

Rex Lumber, Bristol,Fl., has begun construction on a new sawmill in Graceville, Fl. ...

G eo rgia- Pac ific anticipated a June 1 restart of its Louisville. Ms., plywood mill

Earl Bumgarner Lumber Co., Claremont, N.C., is installing a new resaw and remodelins its offrce...

Huttig Building Products flJed suit against Rugby Group Ltd., claiming Rugby broke its contractual obligations to protect Huttig from liability claims; Huttig acquired Rugby subsidiaries Rugby USA and Rugby Building Products in 1994...

Atlanta Structural Products, Norcross, Ga., is now distributing Lo ui s iana- Pa c ifi c's engineered wood products

Anniversaries: Quality Forest Products, Enfield, N.C.,25th ...

Housing starts inApril (latest figs.) fell 5Vo to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.555 million single-family starts slipped 2Vo to 1.270 million; multi-family was at a rate of 261,000 for 5+ units permits held steady at an annual rate of 1.634 million.

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Listings are often submitted months in advance. Always venfy dates and locations with sponsor before making plans to attend.

furu

North American Wholesale Lumber Association - June 10'12, I lOth annual meeting, Broadmoor Hotel, Colorado Springs, Co.: (800) 527-8258.

Temperate Forest Foundation - June 12'15, Southeastern Teachers' Tour, Jacksonville, Fl.; (503) 579-6762'

House-Hasson Hardware Co. - June 13-16, summer dealer market, Nashville, Tn.; (865) 525-0471.

National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors - June 18-19, logistics networking conference, Chicago, 11.; (202) 872-0885'

Forest Products Society - June 23'26, annual meeting, Hilton, Madison, Wi.; (608) 231-1361.

Lumbermens Association of Texas - June 26, committee meetings, Austin, Tx.; (512) 472-1194.

Construction Specifications Institute - June 27-30, annual convention and expo, Las Vegas, Nv.; (206) 382-3393.

futv

Kentucky Lumber & Building Material Dealers AssociationJuly 9, golf outing; July 10, board meeting, Maniott's Griffin Gate Resort, Lexington, Ky.; (502) 245-6730.

Construction Suppliers' Association - July 11-14, summer management conference, Brasstown Valley Resort, Young Harris. Ga.; (77 O\ 7 5 | -637 3.

Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers - July 14-16, summer meeting, The Homestead, Hot Springs, Va.; (336) 885-8315'

National Retail Hardware Association - July 14-L6, annual convention, San Diego, Ca.; (317) 290-0338.

International Lawn, Garden & Power Equipment Exposition - July 19-21, Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, Ky'; (800) 5s8-8767.

North American Wholesale Lumber Association - July 20'25' wood marketing seminar, Moscow, Id.; (800) 527-8258'

American Lumber Standard Committee - July 25, summer meeting, Washington, D.C.; (301) 972-l'700.

International Exhibition on Rooflrng & Waterproofing Tech' nology - July 31-Aug. 3, Beijing, China; (956) 664-2370.

Association of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers - July 31-Aug.4, supply fair, Anaheim, Ca.; (800) 946-293'1

Auousr

National Association of Women in Construction - Aug. I' chapter meeting, Austin, Tx.; (512) 476-5534.

Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association - Aug. l-3, annual meeting, Charleston Place Hotel, Charleston, S.C.; (404) 36t-rM5.

Southern Building Material Association - Aug. l-4, summer outing, Ramada Inn, Virginia Beach, Va.; ('104) 316-1503.

Window & Door Manufacturers Association - Aug. 3'6, summer meeting, Montreal, Quebec; (800) 223-2301.

Mississippi Building Material Dealers Association - Aug. 9'10' mid-year meeting, Imperial Palace, Biloxi, Ms.; (601) 2675522.

National Hardware Show & Building Products Expo - Aug. 11-13, McCormick Place, Chicago, I1.; (847) 605-1025.

Hoo-Hoo International - Aug. 11-14, annual convention, Minneapolis, Mn.; (800) 979-9950.

National Hardwood Lumber Association - Aug. 14-16' hardwood grading short course, Memphis, Tn.; (901) 377-1818.

Moore-Handley Inc. - Aug. 16-18, fall show, Jefferson Convention Complex, Birmingham, Al.; (205) 663-8235.

Florida Building Material Association - Aug. 22-24, anwal building products & design show, Renaissance Resort, Orlando, Fl.; (352) 383-0366.

Florida Building Material Association has recruited football legend Fran Tarkenton as kickoff breakfast speaker during its annual convention and buildine products/design show Aug.22-24 at thi Renaissance Resort. Orlando.

Kentucky Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association national director Steve Kelly was joined by members Gerry and Bonnie Boland, Ralph Jones and staffers Chris Quinn and Martha Trotter at the national dealers association's

K-l Lumber Opens New Ouilet

Kentucky Indiana Lumber Co., Louisville, Ky., has opened a new truss/panel plant and retail outlet in Shelbyville, Ky.

K-I Lumber opened the Shelbyville location on a limited basis in March, until finishing touches were completed last month. "We're open," said executive v.p. Ron Mason. "We just haven't had a grand opening yet."

Mason said the new facility is modeled after the company's operation in

annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C.

Mississippi Building Material Dealers Association has scheduled its mid-year meeting for Aug. 9-10 at the Imperial Palace, Biloxi.

Southern Building Material Association will hold its summer management conference and leadership meeting Aug. l4 at the Ramada Plaza Resort Oceanfront. Virginia Beach, Va.

Lexington, Ky., which is set up to serve both builders and developers on the wholsale side along with d-i-yers seeking a retail environment.

"We can furnish an entire house package. All of the shell, the inside trim, shingles-everything but the dry wall and mechanicals," said Mason.

K-I Lumber has begun building three more sheds in Shelbyville to cover lumber and building products. Currently four sheds are in place.

The company owns 22 acres in the

Breighton Park section of Shelbyville. The current facility occupies eight acres. Additional land will be held for future expansion projects.

K-I Lumber has six retail outlets.

Huber Plans New OSB Plant

Huber Engineered Woods, Charlotte, N.C., plans to build a new OSB facility in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana or Arkansas.

The $125 million, 425,000-sq. ft. plant wil produce 600 million sq. ft. per year of OSB, 3/8" basis.

Huber chose the South-Central region for proximity to a sustainable wood supply, transportation and services infrastructure, access to customers and a skilled labor pool. The specific location, now in the negotiation stages, will be decided based on which of several communities in the region "best meets these needs."

"Once the site is determined in early June," says John Bozeman, v.p. of business development for Huber Engineered Woods, "groundbreaking will begin in early fall and the plant will be fully operational in 2004."

J.M. Huber also operates engineered wood plants in Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia and Maine.

G-P Ready For Spin-off, L-P For Sell-off

Louisiana-Pacific Corp. was born in 19'72 when the federal trade commission ordered Georgia-Pacific Corp. to spin ofl 209o ol its company into a new, separate entity.

Now 30 years later, both comPanies have announced they are spinning off large parts of their operations.

Louisiana-Pacific plans to sell many of its businesses in an attempt to reduce debt-while repositioning OSB as its core business.

Aspart of the divesture, the Oregon-based company plans to sell 935,000 acres of timberlands in Texas, Louisiana and Idaho. It also plans to divest its lumber business, which annually produces 1.4 billion bd. ft. of timber.

The divesture will also include LP's plywood, industrial panels, wholesale and distribution businesses. The reductions are expected to call for the closure and/or sale of approximately 30 North American mills-mostlY located in the Southeast U.S.

Nearly 4,400 jobs will be eliminated as part of the reduction Plan.

L-P has already announced Plans to sell its two Silsbee, Tx., mills and its

plywood plant in Bon Weir, Tx.

Other Texas operations for sale include those in Carthage, Cleveland, Conroe and New Waverly.

In addition to OSB, L-P's new core businesses will be composite wood products, engineered wood products and plastic building materials. In 2001. these businesses had revenues totalling $ 1.4 billion.

The divesture plan is exPected to net the company $600 to $700 million and will be implemented over the next l2 to 18 months.

Georgia-Pacific CorP., Atlanta, Ga., as expected, decided May 7 to go ahead with the proposal to spin off its building products and distribution company from the consumer PaPer division.

"We are aligning our businesses into two new companies, each of which will have a distinct strategic focus and competitive strength," said c.e.o. A.D. "Pete" Conell.

The split will not be completed until the first half of next Year, although an initial public offering for the $12 billion consumer products and packaging business in exPected in

third quarter 2002, according to officials involved in the negotiations.

The building products comPanY has an estimated value of $13 billion.

Touch Of Gray Okay

As figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics attest, many older Americans are seeking employment, a great deal of them in home centers and other retail businesses.

The Bureau said men and women 65 and older comprised l2.9Vo of Americans working or seeking employment in 1999, a l7o increase from the previous year.

Though Home Depot, for instance, does not have a specific policY on older workers, spokesperson Susan Hitchcock said the chain pays better than the average retailer. citing average salaries of $12-$14 an hour. She praised the maturity and work ethic of older workers and said seniors bring a level of expertise to the workplace that the young simply do not have.

Many retirees employed bY DePot have backgrounds in skilled trades such as carpentry and Plumbing, according to Hitchcock, who said seniors seek jobs for extra income. human contact and a love of work.

Store Moves Following Blaze

True Value Hardware, Grafton, Va., has moved into a temporary location in the wake of a fire that completely destroyed the store.

Co-owners Ron Wade and Roger Copenhaver were negotiating last month to move temporarily into a closed Farm Fresh store in the Heritage Square section of the city.

"We would have to move some stuff and do a little work in the old Farm Fresh building," said Ron Wade.

The owners said they plan to rebuild the business. It is expected construction will take nearly five months.

The April 17 blaze occurred two weeks after the company celebrated its 25th anniversary.

Softwood Directory Expands

A new listing of European exporters to the U.S. has been added to Random Lengths' 2002 Big Book directory of thousands of softwood producers, remanufacturers and distributors.

More than 85Vo of the listinss in the new edition have been cha-need from last year's book. The I,100-pige directory features more than 7,800 detailed company listings, 85+ page

personnel index with more than 30,500 names and company affiliations, detailed Lumber Product Finder, and geographic cross reference.

The Big Book is $229.95 from Random Lengths, P.O. Box 867, Eugene, Or. 97440; (888) 686-9925: Fax 800-874-1979.

Discounts are offered for Random Lengths subscribers, previous Big Book buyers, and purchasers of multiple copies.

APA Certified By Japan

APA-The Engineered Wood Association has been granted official recognition as a Registered Foreign Certification Organization by the Japanese' Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

RFCO recognition gives APA authority to certify that its members' products meet the recently revised Japanese Agricultural Standards. APA has been a Japanese-approved Foreign Testing Organization for more than a decade, but the FTO product approval system will be dissolved next year under the revised JAS standards.

Without RFCO recognition, APA mills would have had to incur substantially higher costs to gain Japanese

market access. Recertification under the RFCO program also will permit member mills to take advantage of new manufacturing and labeling options under the revised JAS standards for plywood, OSB and glulams.

More than 40 APA member mills are currently certified by APA to meet JAS requirements. Recertification of those mills will commence immediately and should take several months to complete, said APA Quality Services Division director Alex Kuchar.

Roy O. Martin FSC Certified

Roy O. Martin Lumber Co. and its Martco Limited Partnership divisions, Alexandria, La., have become the first Forest Stewardship Council-approved operations in Louisiana.

The Rainforest Alliance has certified that the company's timberlands and four manufacturing plants meet standards of sustainability as set forth by the FSC.

Roy O. Martin owns approximately 500,000 acres of timberlands in Louisiana along with a plywood plant in Chopin, a pine utility pole facility in Pineville, and a hardwood sawmill and an OSB mill in LeMoyen.

Stock Width Hardwood

Tool Rental Centers See UPturn

Tile and hardwood floor installation and refinishing equipment, drain augers, painting equipment, pressure washers and plate compactors are among the most widely rented products at homeowner/d-i-y rental stores, according to a recent American Rental Association survey.

"Homeowners are handling an increasing number of home improvement and landscaping projects themselves, including complex projects such as complete room additions," says Robert DeBusk, American Equipment Rentals' Phoenix, Az. "Some of this business suggests consumers are trying to save money in a tight economy. They also know the rental center will help them choose the right equipment to handle the job."

Interestingly, more than 30 percent of rental center customers are women, a figure A.R.A. expects will grow as an increasing number of female heads of households tackle home improvement Projects.

A survey of 1,000 consumers revealed that women were more aware than men (817o vs. 77Va) that they could rent

Still using steel banding?

equipment to clean or repair their home after an emergency. Women were nearly as aware as men (74Vo vs. 85Vo) that they could rent equipment to remodel their home.

"Women represent an increasingly important market segment for the rental industry, especially with the rapid rise in female-headed households," says Chris Wehrman, A.R.A.'s executive v.p. and c.e.o. "Our challenge as an industry is not only to make women aware of the rental option, but to make them aware that renting allows them to stretch their resources to get thejob done."

"Women tend to be the drivers of many home improvement projects," DeBusk adds.

Still, contractor and industrial rentals represent the largest segment of the rental industry in North America, accounting for nearly 60Vo of the estimated $15 billion to $20 billion in annual revenue.

The A.R.A. survey found that 42Vo of stores specializing in contractor rentals saw an increase in their business during the last half of 2001. Thirty-one percent of stores that provide tools and equipment for both homeowners and contractors also reported that the contractor rental portion of their business had increased.

Structural Panels KeeP Inching UP

North American structural wood panel production is expected to climb l7o this year to 39.3 billion sq. ft. (3/8" basis), according to the latest annual five-year forecast by APA-The Engineered Wood Association. Wood I-joist' glulam timber, and laminated veneer lumber output also will rise.

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Economic recovery and demographic factors are expected to support demand growth for all categories of structural engineered wood products in the longer term, as well. Panel production, for example, after falling 3Vo last year' is forecast to rise each year over the next six, reaching 43.84 billion ft. in 2007. Glulam timber production is projected to climb 77o, wood I-joist output l\Vo, andLYL 38Vo ftom 2O02 to 20O7.

This year, residential construction is expected to consume just over 20 billion sq. ft. of structural panels, or nearly 5lVo of combined U.S. and Canadian production. The remaining volume will find its way into the remodeling market, 7.95 billion ft.; industrial applications, 7.1 billion ft.; nonresidential construction, 3.9 billion ft.' and international markets, 900 million ft. (excluding U.S.Canadian trans-border shipments).

Offshore imports, meanwhile, are expected to rise to 510 million square feet, up about 30 percent from last year. Imported hardwood plywood, some of which competes with domestic structural panels in industrial markets, totaled an additional 2.55 billion square feet last year.

OSB production is expected to rise 980 million square feet this year, to 22.5 billion, while plywood volume is forecast to decline about 600 million ft., to 16'8 billion. Plywood production, following years of steady decline, is expected to level off in the 16-17 billion ft. range over the next five years, suggesting that a greater equilibrium has now been reached between plywood and OSB market share.

A total of 156 softwood plywood and OSB mills operated in the U.S. and Canada last year, including 92 plywood and 64 OSB facilities.

The full 60-page report is $175 from APA, (253) 6207 4O7 and www.apawood.org.

Hardware Show Reduces

This summer's National Hardware Show in Chicago will feature a reformatted exhibit floor, grouping similar product categories together in easy-toaccess quadrants.

The show floor also will feature wider aisles and a unique, comfortable "buyer lounge" at the crossroads of two major "boulevard" aisles for networking, conducting business and reenergizing.

The New Product Exposition will be moved to the center of McCormick Place's South Hall. improving access and visibility to the more than 1,800 new products featured.

All exhibits also have been relocated from the more distant East Building to the adjacent North and South Halls.

A new dedicated shuttle bus lane will provide quicker travel between area hotels and the show.

To reduce the cost of attending and exhibiting at the Aug. I l-13 show, hotel room rates will be reduced by up

Wood's lmage Still Not Green

A new survey of prospective homebuyers reveals that many consumers still do not view wood as the best environmental choice for building.

The Wood Promotion Network survey ed 1,000 prospective home buyers on their perceptions of green building products.

The survey found that although four out of five consumers believe that green building products were important in home construction, only 50Vo feel that wood is a good environmental choice for building.

The survey revealed that, despite 60Vo of consumers believing wood is an excellent renewable and recyclable resource, less than one-third think that forests in North America are abundant. According to Wood Promotion Network's Kelly McCloskey, "Not only are our forests abundant, but wood is the only major building material to embark on environmental certification programs."

As far as non-wood building materials, 40Vo of those surveyed believe the manufacture of concrete and steel is less intrusive on the environment than the harvesting of trees.

In response to the data, McCloskey said, "Wood is the world's only renewable construction material, which by comparison is a significantly more beneficial factor than the energyintensive recycling of steel."

Costs, Hassles

to 25Vo during International Hardware Week. A series of cost saving booth package options are being offered.

In addition, two free educational programs will be held for exhibitors"New Trends & Winning Strategies for Successful Exhibiting" by Dr. Allen Konopacki and "Reducing Trade Show Costs" by Patti Reilly.

For more infomation, see the show's enhanced Web site, www. nationalhardwareshow.com, as well as a special Expo Preview section in next month's Building Products Digest.

"When you go to a lumberyard and buy wood, (preservationists) would have you believe you are destroying the forests. What you're really doing is sending a signal to plant more trees."

- Dr. Patrick Moore, founder, Greenspirit, and co -founde r, Greenpeace

Save money by stocking Deep Swamp Cypress in place of redwood and cedar. This beautiful, versatile, all around species, for exterior and interior use, finishes better than cedar or redwood and is more stable than southern pine. We mill to your specs-any pattern siding, plus finish, S4S, fine bevel/bungalow sidings, 1" sidings, paneling, ceiling, wainscot stock and flooring. All kiln dried, from finish to common grades. No order too small.

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Maximize return on invento ted

By Bob Degnan and Clark Colvin CSC Capital Partners, Ltd. Salem, Or.

SY"t"t"i""Jil"

same amount oI money from two different investments over a year's time.

In both cases you would make $ I,000 on your investment. In the first instance, you would have to invest $4,000. In the second you have to invest only $400. Which would you choose?

The answer seems pretty obvious. Yet most people and organizations. particularly at the retail level, choose to invest far more than necessary to achieve the same dollar return.

It seems that many people focus just on the Bang, and not the Bang for the Buck. Why is this? The answer lies in understanding effective inventory management, and the difference between corporate profitability and return on investment.

To carry the illustration further, let's assume that the above example refers to the buying and selling of Product A, chrome-plated widgets, that can be purchased for $400 each. and sold for $500, with a 207o Gross Profit Margin. The demand for these items is l0 sales per year, or $5,000.

In the first instance, knowing we can sell l0 this year, we order l0 to have on hand and support our anticipated sales. Because they cost $400 each. we invest $4.000 in an inventory of 10 chrome widgets to support our anticipated sales.

In the second instance, although we anticipate selling l0 units this year, we are not sure of the sales volume for the chrome widgets in our market. We know we can get them quickly, since the main distribution depot is close by and we can get a delivery every week. We also have other products we would like to buy and stock, and can use the money beneficially elsewhere. We therefore choose to keep one chrome widget in stock. with the commitment to replenish it and buy another one as soon as this one is sold.

In each case we sell 10 chrome

Yer in the first ,nr,unfffn",r$ii%t& profit is a 257o return on an investment of $4,000, and in the second instance the same $1,000 is a 250Vo return on an investment of only $400. Also, in the second case, the remaining $3,600 can be invested in other products, fueling additional sales with additional incremental returns and profits.

Why doesn't everyone exercise the second option? Certainly we would all |rke a 25OVo return on investment rather than 257o. Certainly we all have additional investment opportunities, ones that we would like to pursue "if only" we had the funds. The answer lies in three key areas: knowledge of anticipated sales (How many chrome widgets will we sell?), knowledge of present sales transactions (How quickly do we know we've sold the chrome widget that is in stock and therefore need to buy another one?), and attention to detail and buyer/management commitment (How do we know that our people will be on top of the situation and act as they need to at all times? Do they care that we have too many or too few widgets? Have they been given the tools they need to act, and empowered to use them? Are they being held accountable and rewarded for the results?).

l. Knowledge of anticipated sales

If we do not have any idea how many chrome widgets we will sell, we may be forced to carry a quantity greater than we need so that we "don't run out." A number of retailers still follow the traditional ordering process of "filling the pegs" and "stocking the shelves." They believe that unless all the pegs and shelves are full to overflowing, they are not carrying enough product. (This method may result in us carrying $10,000 or more in chrome widgets inventory to support $5,000 in sales, instead of $4,000).

One step up from this approach, but no less faulty, we may be forced to rely on our memory or inexact sales history, recalling that we think we sold "about so many" chrome widgets this time last year. Since no two months or years are ever the same, this is an equally dangerous approach. How many times have you heard, when asking why so much excess inventory is in stock, "Well, they just didn't sell as many as I thought they would."

The best way to purchase and stock materials, of course, is by an accurate forecast of anticipated sales. This can be done only if we have an information system that allows us to develop accurate forecasting models that are self-educational, and prompt us to get more and more accurate at forecasting future sales as we continue the process over time. The commitment here is needed on the part of all departments, with particularly close coordination between sales, purchasing and accounting/information systems. Companies that have chosen this path and have stayed the course are now reaping the benefits and higher returns on investment. While it is true that you don't benefit by having more of any product than you need, it is also true that "you can't sell what you don't have."

2. Knowledge o;f present sales transactions

Perhaps no one today is better equipped to address this issue, or to track their sales and retail transactions in real-time than Wal-Mart. From their headquarters in Bentonville, Ar., the retailer can track sales and inventory by item for each of their 80,000+ items in each of their 3,500+ stores within24 hours. They have developed relations with their key suppliers whereby this product sales and movement information is shared, and the supplier joins Wal-Mart as a partner in promoting maximum sales and inventory turns at each Wal-Mart location. But, we are not all Wal-Marts. So

what are we to do? Most retailers today do have computerized point-ofsale systems that, if not at the WalMart level of sophistication, still can be customized to provide timely sales and inventory stock-status information. This data enables us to track and monitor sales and inventory levels several times per week, if not on a daily and hourly basis. The point here is to design a selective system that enables us to track sales and inventories in a timely manner in order for us to make timely purchase decisions.

A vast quantity of data alone does not guarantee useful information. Accurate data, however, combined with proper organization and relevance, does. The key is to develop a system that lets us see what we need to see when we need to see it, so we can make the purchasing decisions that need to be made (reorder items, quantities, etc.) in a timely manner, and with minimum error.

"How often can I order?" "How frequently can I get a delivery?" "How many can I order?" All these are good questions to ask in order to balance over-aggressive turn-growth and just-in-time inventory fixation with the conservative tendency to

always keep more in stock than we need so we 'Just don't run out."

3. Attention to detail and buyer/management commitment

While it's true that accurate information systems are essential, it's also true that no amount of system sophistication or programming can replace the dedication of a trained employee who is positively motivated and committed to maximizing corporate performance and "making things work."

From Wal-Mart to your company, the reason things work well is the dedication and commitment of your employees. Successful companies are a mixture of accurate, timely data systems and motivated, committed employees. Employees and managers are given the proper tools, empowered to act, held accountable for their actions and rewarded for the results. They know their positions and their

responsibilities (which are clearly defined and delineated throughout the organization). They know to whom they report, exactly what is expected of them and precisely what they are being held accountable for. Most importantly, they are committed to achieving the established goals for themselves, their department and the entire organization, and receive paid incentives and rewards for their attainment. AII engines are on-track, heading in the same direction. The throttles are set for full-stream ahead, and everyone is engaged.

Any organization that is presently not achieving what it is capable of (or what it believes it is capable of) should look first to itself to solve rhe problem. Although you deal with customers and other members of the world "outside," your problems are most often not "outside" but "inside." . Whether you are currently managrng your company to achieve a 257o Return on Investment, a 2507o ROI, or something in between, there is a stepby-step approach that will increase your present and future performance. Your purchasing/inventory control systems, inventory and ROI are excellent places to begin.

Most people choose to invest far more than necessary to achieve the same dollar return.

Dan Taylor has been promoted to general mgr. of SnavelY Forest Products, Browns Summit, N.C., replacing David Harris. Kevin Gribbon is new to sales in Wilmington, N.C.

Von Simpson is new to sales at Guthrie Lumber Sales, Houston, Tx. Russell Slaughter has joined the sales force in Austin, Tx.

Robert Gragg is now mgr. of The Contractor Yard, Greensboro, N.C. Robert Howard is the new mgr. in Raleigh, N.C.

E.J. Orseske has been Promoted to sales mgr. at Travis Lumber Co., Mansfield, Ar.

Tony Concutelli, Les HenrY and Mary Biggers are new to sales at East Coast Lumber Co., Climax, N,C.

David Wynn, ex-ChamPion Building Products, is new to inside sales at Weyerhaeuser's customer service center in Jacksonville, Fl.

SPEGIES

Western Red Cedar lncense Cedar

Hem-Fir. Douglas Fir

Jack McClenny is now mgr. of PrimeSource Building Products, Fayetteville, N.C. Brian McKiernan was promoted to rePlace McClenny as mgr. in Greensboro, N.C.

Matt Tackentien is the new mgr. at Wheeler's, Jasper, Ga.

Mike White is now overseeing all roof truss operations for Causeway Lumber Co., Fort Lauderdale, Fl. Carolyn Stoner has been Promoted to benefits coordinator. In Bonita Springs, Fl., Wanda Scoville has been promoted to assistant general mgr. and Nikki Betz has been promoted to assistant office mgr.

David Kornegay, Carolina Builders, has been transferred from Durham to Apex, N.C., as mgr.

Larry B. Sink, ex-A&H Windows, has joined Olde Lexington Products, Lexington, N.C., as v.P.sales and marketing.

Johan van Tilburg has been appointed president of Tindell's Building Supply, Knoxville, Tn., succeeding F. CarlTindell. who remains c.e.o.

Jim Stoddart has been promoted to president of Home DePot SuPPlY, Atlanta, Ga. He replaces LYnn Martineau, who has left the company.

Henry Melikian has joined Texas Door & Trim, Dallas, Tx., as v.p' and cfo/controller.

Shelia Moore is new to counter sales at Builders FirstSource, Kinston, N.C.

Dave Heine has been named v.P.retail development at Do it Best Corp. Quent Ondricek is the new v.p.-lumber & building materials.

Ven Mathis, Mid South Services, Collins, Ms., was named 20O2 Rookie Distributor of the Year bY Do it Best's Incom Distributor Supply.

Anderson, Ca.: (800) 427-8253 '(530) 378'6980

Fax 530-378-6987 ' Fred Duchi' Don Cherovsky

Mike Webster' Darren Duchi ' Dean Duchi

Weed, Ca.: (800) 374-0210' (530)938-2771

Fax 530-938-3227 ' Bill Duchi ' Dennis Duchi

Linnea Johansson has been named executive director of the National Sash & Door Jobbers Association. New Port Richey, Fl. She succeeds Mark Palmer, who has resigned. Rosalie Leone has been promoted to associate director.

Scott D. Schriefer is new to sales at Bentley Sales & Marketing, Kernersville, N.C. He is responsible for N.C. and S.C.

Eric Sowder has been named senior v.p.-logistics for Lowe's Cos., Wilkesboro, N.C. Keith Brock is the new mgr. in Goldsboro, N.C. Elizabeth Johnson is the new mgr. in Knightdale, N.C., and Lee Hodges is now mgr. of the Winterville. N.C.. location.

John Tyler "J.T." McShan, owner, McShan Lumber Co., McShan, Al.. will receive the Unifying Force for Efficient Forest Products & Building Materials Distribution Award at the North American Wholesale Lumber Association's 11Oth annual meeting this month in Colorado.

Joe Elder, owner. Elder Wood Preserving, Mansura, La., is on the

road to recovery after suffering a recent heart attack.

Sonny Akers has joined MungusFungus Forest Products, Climax, Nv., as a real estate consultant, report co-owners Hugh Mungus and Freddy Fungus.

Survey Finds Producers And Distributors At Odds

Both manufacturers and distributors admit that a lack of commitment and trust between them is the greatest barrier to improved sales performance and profitability, reports a new study.

The Industrial Performance Group survey found that 347o of both manufacturers and distributors have "low" expectations for improved relations over the next two years.

Only 20Vo of respondents felt there was a "high" chance of cementing better relationships in the future, whereas 45Vo chose "moderate" to describe the likelihood of improved working relationships.

Survey respondents also cited other concerns: insufficient investment in people and technology; short-term

Landry Set To Helm SFPA

Lionel Landry has been named president-elect of the Southern Forest Products Association, Kenn€r, La,, to succeed retiring Karl Lindberg as president Sept. 17,, Tami Kessler, current director oj administration, succeeds Landry as Expo director. Digges Morgan, v.p.-government affairs, is now corporate secretary-elect, assuming Kessler's administrative and supervisory respon sibilities.

Director of state and environmental affairs Eric Gee has been appointed director of govemment affairs, now representing both federal and state functions.

financial performance pressure, and failure to understand and resnond to changes in the industry.

SlS2E Boards

Bevel Siding

Pecky Paneling

Log Gabin Timbers Shingles

LlonelL,endry

Access Door To Longevity

Vinyl Windows & Doors Corp. has introduced a vinyl crawl space access door that reportedly will last years without the deterioration normally associated with plywood and steel.

Storage Rack Attack

A storage rack system designed to hold heavy loads like lumber and pipe while supporting the covered storage building it is built into is new from SpaceRak.

Cant-I-Beam Cantilever Rack system features arms and columns made of Ibeam construction, with arms fastened to columns by four bolts.

Load capacities range up to 109,000 lbs. per column and to 14,000 lbs. per arm.

Circle No.201

Cladview windows.

LoE2, manufactured by Cardinal Glass Industries. is said to reduce heat gain by 507o compared to regular glass.

Circle N0.204

Safe At Home Base

High impact polymer bases that can be anchored to sublfloor materials to build OSHA-compliant guardrail or stair rail systems are new from Safety Maker lnc.

Model G9-43A features a "backbone" frame offset slightly to the operator cab side, bringing the midmounted engine closer to the center of the machine, reportedly imProving left-right weight distribution.

Circle No. 206

Flesh Out Your Siding

Crane Performance Siding has a new line of trim and mouldings to go with its solid core siding.

Made of 1007o vinyl, the doors are pre-hung, feature welded corners and are available with a builrin deadbolt.

Circle No. 202

Sublime Soffit System

CertainTeed Corp. has introduced a ventilated soffit system to provide moisture protection for attic and roof decks.

WeatherBoards Ventilated Soffit system is said to eliminate ice dams, retain the effectiveness and R-Value of insulation. and extend roof life.

Circle No. 203

Window Sun Glasses

A&H Window Co. is now including "soft-coat" glass as a standard feature on its vinyl-clad Series 70

Safety Boot Guardrails hold stress srade 2x4s to build out toeboards, construct posts, and complete railing systems.

Circle No. 205

Raise That Lumber

High!

A forklift with a 9,000-lb. capacity and a 43-ft. maximum lift height is new from the Gradall Co.

Crane Solid Core Architectural Essentials Accessories include 5" and 3.5" window lineals, window starter strips, corner connectors, crown moulding and finish boards.

Circle No. 207

The Lap Siding of Luxury

Louisiana-Pacific has introduced hardboard siding with a pre-primed finish that reportedly resists moisture. Quicklap comes in five profiles in 12" and 16" widths, with a 30-year limited warranty.

Circle No. 208

Dry Under Deck

A deck drainage system designed to keep the area under a deck clean and dry is new from Crane Products Ltd.

DrySpace Deck

Drainage System comes in 16" and 24" on-center joint spaces with all components available in 12- or l6-ft. lengths.

Circle No. 209

Flamespread-Free Sid ing

Solid vinyl siding thar reporredly does not add to flamespread and meets building codes is-new from Kaycan.

Group.

High Density Single Ply Board is made of expanded perlite with reinforced cellulose fibers and a patented binder formulation. They are available in 4'x8' boards l/2" thict<.

Circle No. 212

Hold On To The Hand Rail

A round, aluminum-reinforced PVC hand rail system that meets hand rail building code specifications is new from L.B. Plastics.

up to two years. It comes in a natural clear finish and can be applied to dry or damp wood.

Circle No. 2'14

Mighty Moulder Tales

Weinig Group has introduced a moulder they claim is the simplest and fastest to operate in the industry.

Fishscale comes in 4-ft. sections with individual scales measuring approximately 6" across.

Circle No. 210

Termite Terminator

Ground stakes desisned to kill termites near house fo-undations and decks are new from Terminate's Doit-Yourself Bait Stakes.

Spectracide Terminate stakes are placed 8' to l0' apart in the soil around the entire house. Termites take treated materials from the stakes back to the nest for the colony to feed on.

Circle No. 211

Insulation Density Matters

A low thermal insulation board that allows for the direct application of single-ply membranes is new from Johns Manville Roofing Systems

Sheerline Hand Rail System comes with 2" outside diameter, 8' long rail that can be cut to length. in add-ition to elbow and P-Loop returns, radius elbows, molded elbow returns, end caps and others.

The rails attach to cement, wood. concrete or other surfaces.

Circle N0.213

Let's Protect Our Wood

A wood waterproofer that performs like oil-based products but with the fast dry time of water-based finishes is new from Behr Process Corp. Behr No. 300 WaterProofins

Wood Protector is said to protec'i fences. siding and patio furniture for

Unimat 1000 Star features a memory capacity that stores setting values which can be called up by pressing a re-dial button.

Circle No. 215

A Builder's Flagship Company flags to mark fence perimeters, utilities and sprinkler head placement are available from Blackburn Flags & Marking Products.

The flags are made of weather resistant, 4mil plastic and come in staff lengths that range from 15" to 36" in wire, plastic or fiberglass.

Circle No. 216

is ovoiloble by circling the corresponding Reoder Service number opposite the inside bock cover ond sending the form to New Products Editor FAX to 949-852-0231, by E-moil io rfoy@ioc.net, by moil to 4500 Compus Dr., Suite 480, Newport Beoch, C0.92660, or by colling (e4e) 852-l eeO.

Aluminum Deck Balusters

Capital Lumber Co. has begun distributing aluminum balusters that are said to resemble wood composite products.

DecKorators deck and fence components are made of lo0%o rust-free aluminum and are available in seven baked-on finishes.

Circle N0.217

Look What's In The Gutter

Log home spikes and gutter nails made from heavy-duty galvanized steel are new from ITC Manufacturing & Power Coating.

Gutter nails are produced in Plain shank in 3116" and ll4" and are used as an anchor for aluminum or galvanized rain sutters.

Log hoire spikes are designed for securing and anchoring landscape ties, timbers, log cabin structures and other applications that require heavyduty steel nails.

Both spikes and nails come in 50# boxes, 48 boxes per pallet load.

Circle No. 218

The Silent Door Treatment

Broco Doors has introduced two new doors that reportedly reduce

noise transmission compared to regular hollow core doors.

Accent and Elegant feature true raised mouldings and panels and solid core MDF construction with hardwood stiles and rails.

They come inl-3l8" and 1-3/4" thicknesses.

Circle No. 219

A Little Ceramic TLC

TEC Specialty Products has introduced new ceramic tile and stone cleaners for interior flooring, countertop and walls.

Tile & Stone Care System features more than 20 sealants, cleaners and colorants chemically engineered to work together.

The cleaners reportedly clean oils, mustards, coffee and greases.

Circle No. 220

WE OFFER A SOURCE OF SUPPLY OF YETLOW CYPRESS

AS GOOD AS THE BEST BETTER THAN THE REST

Selects x #2 Common *. Pecky x Dimension * Rough + Resawn * S4S * S1S2E * Siding * T&G & V-Joint * Bevel Siding * Fencing x Paneling * Moulding x Decking

Custom orders in quantities, sizes & pattems to your specifications

Mixed orders of CYPRESS & HARDWOODS Surfaced, Rough or Straighrline ripped

If you want to order by the job, Fax us your specifications

over 700,000' orl,ono Inventory

If you want to get what you pay for, THEN IT IS TIME TO TRY US!

uolres

Dick Farrar Sr., 84, owner of Williams Lumber & Supply Co., Fayetteville, Tn., died May 6 in Huntsville, Al.

He had owned and operated the company since 1963.

Ralph Harrison, 86, president of J.E. Chilton Millwork and Lumber, and founder/owner of Brown Wood Inc., Nashville, Tn., died March 5.

Mr. Harrison was a past president of both the Architectural Woodwork Institute and the Southern Woodwork Assocation.

Dan Smith, 62, former sales manager at Culp Lumber Co., New London, N.C., died Apil23.

Rev. Warren Lynn Risher, 54, Anderson Lumber Co., Maryville, Tn., died April l.

Hugh Love, 72, retired communications director for the American Plywood Association (now APA-The Engineered Wood Association), died from a heart attack April 25.

A native of Northern Ireland, he worked at the Plywood Manufacturers

Association of British Columbia before joining APA in 1968.

He retired in 199 I

Donald L. Kelly, 63, retired sawyer for Ocala Lumber Sales, Ocala, Fl., died March 30 in Clearwater, Fl.

Mr. Kelly was an Army veteran.

Truss Plant Gutted By Fire

Mid-America Lumber's Lawton, Ok., truss plant was destroyed in a fire last month.

No injuries were reported, but damage from the May 1l blaze was estimated at between $300.000 to $400,000.

Co-owner Terry Smith said fire officials suspect the blaze began in an area of the plant packed with wood and wood shavings. He added that workers had recently sighted people sneaking onto the property after hours.

Ace Ships Paint Freight-Free

Starting Aug. I Ace Hardware Corp. will begin shipping any quanrity of paint to its members without adding freight charges.

"This eliminates having to wait to

accumulate a l00-gallon order to save money on freight charges," said Ace Paint Division's Dick Bristol. "Ace retailers can order reasonable just-intime inventory and increase turnover."

Currently paint manufacturers stipulate minimum gallonage requirements before prepaid freight is offered. Additionally, a new earnedvolume discount program will also be implemented Aug. 1.

Store Cooks With Appliances

Huskey Home Products, Newport News, Va., has survived the big box stores and kept its hardware business afloat with a novel idea-becoming a rural appliance distributor.

In 1985, then-Huskey Hardware, became a distributor for General Electric as part of its home builder program. Fifteen years later, Huskey is one of GE's top 20 builder distriburors in the country and, according to owner Rod Huskey, carrying appliances is the only thing that saved his hardware business from Lowe's and Home Depot.

Huskey now supplies refrigerators, stoves and dishwashers to 300 homebuilders in the region.

EXHIBITORS-Reserve Your Booth Space NOW for the

WoodSource

llenty of opportunities to network and spend time with friends!.

Kickoff

with legendary sports

and

ploce

Rates: 25 words for $25, additional words 700 ea. Phone number counts as I word, address as 6. Headline or centered copy, $6 per line. Private

CARIBBEAN EXPORT SALES POSITION

Dantzler Inc., an established import/export products company, is looking for a self-motivated, experienced salesperson to take over an existing Caribbean territory. Candidate would handle established accounts and have the opportunity to prospect new areas. Must be willing to relocte to the Ft. Lauderdale/Miami area. Limited travel required. Competitive compensation package. Send/fax resume in confidence to: Don Altman - Dantzler Inc., 7975 NW l54th St., Suite 240, Miami Lakes, Fl. 33016. Fax 305-828-2501. No phone applications or inouiries.

box or special border, $6 ea. Column inch rate: $45 camera-ready, $55 if we set the type. Names of advertisers using a box number cannot be released. Address replies to box number shown in ad c/o Building Products Digest, 4500 Campus Dr., Ste. 480, Newport Beach, Ca. 92660-1E72. Make checks payable to Cutler Publishing. Mail copy to above address, Fax to 949-852-0231 or call (949) 852-1990. Deadline fbr copy is the 20th of the month. Payment must accompany copy unless you have established credit with us.

Our traders are motivated stockholders in the fastest-growing lumber trading company in North America. Are you looking for a great opportunity, more freedom, and a better way to work? Our collaborative, team-based trading approach will net more to your bottom line. We offer: base salary generous team bonus ' stock ownership ' cutting-edge technology'centralized support ' strongest financial rating ' no noncompete. We open offices in the home towns of talented traders' ls your town next? Strictest confi dence observed.

Own your future. Make the changel Fax resume to 206-328-3253 or email careers@lowgradelumber.com. Refer to iob code 8PD0502. www. lowgradelumber.com

QLowGradelumber-

PORTABLE TRADE SHOW DISPLAY

Travelite trade show display from ExpoSystems. Sharp black backdrop with overhead lighting ideal for l0'xl0' booth space. Quickly and easily breaks down into self-contained case, weighingjust 50 lbs. and featuring wheels for easy transport.

Excellent condition. $1,000.

Call Chuck, Building Products Digest, (949) 852-1990.

WE BUY AND SELL PANEL STRIPS

Plywood, OSB, particleboard and MDF by the truckloads. Lumber Source, Phone (800) 874- I 953. Fax 888-576-8723, email LumberSource@worldnet.att.net.

REMANUFACTURING SPECIALIST, center match on 1 ", 2", 3" and 4" lumber. Other patterns including flooring, ceiling, log siding and more. Custom CCA treating. Custom KDAT. We manufacture Southern Yellow Pine lx4 and 1x6 S4S and patterns. Call Billy Ryals, Laurel Lumber Co., Laurel, Ms., (601) 649'7 696: F ax 601 -428- 12 4.

AMERICAN Institute of Timber Construction

held its 50th anniversarv annual meetino at Nassau, Bahamas. 1t; New president l\iike

Lane, past president Ed Jones. (2) V.p. Tommv

Hewitt, treasurer Craiq Van Cott. Maurv Rhudd.

(3) Russ Anthony, eartton Whittle; Hotton

Quinn. (4) Genie Quinn, Marqaret Rhude.

Rochelle White, Nancv JaenicXe. (5) Elaind

Vickery, Mike Caldwett.-(6) Bruce Bevdrd, Toni

Van Wolput, Mike Foster, Mike Ailen. (7) John

Jayne, Norm Strauss, Jon Strauss. fAj Uit<e

Giles, Bill Vickery, Chester New. (9) ilob & Mary Poweil, Linda & paut Githam. itot gitt a

Alys Owsley, Wendi & Bud Owslev. (iti Bect<v

Jayne, Norm Strauss, Sue & Ralph tV'alonev.

(12) Ron Goff. (13) Betrv Dathoff. Martha

Whittle, Lisa Anthonv, Fav'e New. (14) Kathv

Jones, Lucy & Scott Strandiien, Snannon Gites.

"r.@*' {,1

Wayne Owen (6) Chuck Poo. Tom Fulwider. Robert Pool (7) Terry Day Rick & Cind, Hutzier Mit Scott (8) T m Kreger, Scott Stewart Steve Cotaya, Todd Hebert. Jenr, Chapparo, Richard O'Del i9) John Kay Mart1l Bitter. (10) Rick Ford, Gene Bertram (l1) Rob Everson, Steve Laugh n. Fred Quarles. (12) Frank

I .- '*t Stewart. (13) Robert Marsh.

Jim Wenger. Joey Edwards James Myrick, Hugh MacDonah (14) Jim ^& Sharon {espess, Chris Owen (15) Roy Deering. Barbara-Douglas (16)

Tony Gonzaies. Michael Bernal. (17) Barry Frost. Kim Pohl Dave Osborne

(18) Mark & Kay Tumbleson.

(More LAT Photos on next Page)

LONE STAR LUMBEF: Dealers descended on Dallas' Wyndham Anatole Hotel for the Lumbermen's Association of Texas annual convention and buying market April 1B-20 (1) Robert Bjornson. Curtis Bldulock {2) Larry Pe'arc"y. trent Leon, Fred Bilbrey. (3) Corey Thomason. Linda Priddy, Noel Pennington. (4) Denls Roy (5) Daryl Carter, Lee Roy Jordan, Ron Torres'

LAT attendee^s (contunued from previous page ) (1)Tim Robb, Clayton Barnes (2) Carter Stinton, Garry Swerdl k. lr/ike Zumwatt 1O; X'eitn Harnes James Mclntyre Mlke Aaron (4) Mitla & Barbara peteinian (5) Jeff Atkrnson, Jack Bates, Bill Hogan, Tim Bufkin David Hogan, Kenny Pence. (6) Judy Anderson-Powers Jan Kagy. penny prout"y. 1Z; Vike Kontz Bob Kubrnec. (8) Gary Guthrey Jeliy McNamara '(9) Walter Wallace, Darla Wuest, Jason Sanders. Chris MbCollum, Chris iloberson.

Jason While plfqr Smrlh (10) Par & Dwayne Godwin (11)Johnny Ber, Jack Shade _(12) Lillie, Bounds Emrty Fresler. (13) Anna 'eiggers, Aen Wilson (14) David McCasland. Bill Wyatt, Lou peacock. (15) Kirk Marez, Steve J_ennings Henry Hicks. (16) Biuce Agness (LAT Associate of the Year) Eddre Stafford. (17) Steve Kirkland,-Steve Krystosik. (1g) Dave Boergel Nathan Potter. Jack Carson (19) Rick Halfmann, Miie knopp, Fandy Russell, Craig Redding.

Diamond Hill Plywood Makes lts Move

Hundreds of guests and elected officials gathered for the grand opening ceremony of Diamond Hill Pywood's newly completed distribution and transportation center and office complex in Darlington, S.C.

The warehouse takes uP about 50,000 of the facility's overall 60,000 sq. ft. Offices and two lumber sheds are also housed on the site.

John Ramsey, president and c.e.o., and his brother Jim RamseY, executive v.p., attributed the move to the need for more room.

"The additional space will allow the company to grow on several fronts. One of the problems we fced before the move was not having the room to move the new Products to the market," said Ed Baker, Project manager.

Transport trucks will have easier access to the new building and avoid traffic problems associated with the previous location, which was next to the corporate office on East Broad Street. DHP Transportation had been located in a wing of the home office.

$TY{,E: Southwest Pine A#ooFtion lFH its snualgolf townanpnt llay 9-,l1 in

ry fif#ffi#sm

f, Walker, Tre-Fol In. teffiafpnal, El Psso,

, Phoenir, Aa.; Joy i Alexander, Alsxan- .,ffi iiiiiiifil'."iil Judy & Tommy Davis, Tom Davis Lumber Co., Oklahome City, 0k, (4) Bobb{ & Rk* Ba'{hman, @itd Lumber Co., Albuquerque, N.M.

RIBBON CUTTING marks opening of new Diamond Hill Plywood DC: (l'r) Anne Wan, citv council; Jim Ramsey, Diamond Hill executiv'e v.p.; Dave Aycock, Nucor Steel; John Ramsey, presidenVc.e.o., and his wife, Jane;

Tom Marschel, Chamber of Commerce; Georqe Harrison and Tony DiLeo, Darlington Dowitown Revitalization; Andrew Gurtis, Darlington Raceway; Ray Hanis, county deveF opment board.

guide

AuBArt

Custom Lumber Manufacturing C0. ...............(gg4) 7gg-1527

Everwood Treatment C0. ........,,,...........,........(800) 226-3444

Georgia-Pacific..........,,........(800) 866-1414 (205) 233-0256

Great Southern Wood Preserving.......,.,,.......(800) 633-7539

Gulf Lumber Co., Inc, ........,..,..........,.,........,..,(394) 457-6872

Gull States Paper Corp. ......,............,,.,........,.(205) 562-5000

McEwen LumberCo .......1334\432-2322

McShan Lumber Co. .....eOSlg7S-6277

Weyerhaeuser C0...............,(800) 541-4825 (256) 3S1-3550

ftmrsrs

Anthony Forest Products C0. ......$00\ 22j.2326

Bean Lumber Co,, Curt .,..,..(800) 232-2326 (800) 482-2352

Cedar Creek Wholesale, Inc. ....,.,...........,.,....(866) 760-5344

Hoover Trealed Wood Products.,...................(900) 531.5558

Weyerhaeuser C0. .........,.. ......... ..(800) 643-1515

Froror

Brackett Brothers..............,..(800) 542.6777 (828) 584-0785

Building Products of America............,.,,.........(800) 962-1 518

Buildscape.............. ......(808) 552-0061

Envir0Safe............... .....,(941) 768-5248

Hoover Treated Wood Products, Inc. .............(904) 25g.7g18

Lumbermen's Underwriting A1|iance.........,..,..(800) 327.0630

McEwen Lumber Co. (Delray Beach)...,.........(561 ) 276-51 55

McEwen Lumber Co. (Jacksonvitte) ...............(904) 783-01 70

McEwen Lumber Co. (Ortando)......................(407) 299 4280

l\4cEwen Lumber Co. (Tampa)... .(813) 248-41 1 1

Precision Architectural Products, Inc..,,..........(889) 966-3777

Southern Pine Inspection 8ureau......,,..........,(850) 434-261 1

Brackett Bros.......,... ......(BO0\ 542-6777

Chadsrvorth's 1.800.C01umns .......................,(800) 486-21 18

Chemical Specialties, Inc. ....................,... ......(704\ 522-OBZ'

Crumpler Plastic Pipe, Inc..................,...........(800) 334-5071

DLH Nordisk, Inc. .....,...........,............,..,.........(800) 6g8-2992

Eastooast Mouldings .......,..,..........,.............,.(S00) 627-3269

Epperson Lumber Sa|es..,............,............ .....(704\

600

V-lndustries .....,..,.... ......(91 9) 552-6889

Vinyl Windows & Doors C0rp. ,..,........,.,..,.....(910) 944.2100

Weyerhaeuser (Charlotte) ...(800) 645-9370 (704) 595-9700

Weyerhaeuser Bl,4D (Greensboro).................(800) 438-4423 (336) 60s-3240

Williams & Sons, Inc., Jerry c........................(919) 934-41 1S

Grubb & Ellis .......,...........,.(803) 779-8600

McEwen Lumber Co. (Charleston).....,..,........(S43) 766-5383

McEwen Lumber Co. (Greenviile)..................(864) 277-9865

New South lnc (800) 346-8675 (843) 236-9399

Madison Wood Preservers..,. (540) 948-6801

Marley Mouldings .... ...,..(800) 368-91 1 7

Rocky Top Wood Preservers, Inc.........,..,......(S40) 483-5264

Southern Pine Timber Products.,...........,..,....(877) 504-7463

Supreme Decking,... ...,..(800) 532-1323

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Elder Lumber Co,, Roy O,..........,...................(800) 844-0615

Elder Wood Preserving....,...(800) 467-80j8 (918) 964-2196

Landry Lumber Sales, Richard........,..,........,..(3jB) 442-0453

Martin, Roy 0........,. ..,...(800) 299-5174

Southern Pine C0uncil........,..........,..,..........,..(504) 443.4464

Weyerhaeuser Co, .,..,...(318) 255-6258

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Columbus 1umber.....,,........(800) 654-6743 (601) 833-1990

Hankins Inc............,...........,.(888) 897-9286 (662) 837-9286

Hood Industries ......(60j ) 735-5071

Shuqualak Lumber Co........,..,.......,..,.............(601 ) 799-4528

Southern Lumber C0. ....,..,..(800) 748.S91 9 (601 ) 962.001 9

Weyerhaeuser BMD....,.......(800) SSS-0310 (228) 865-1077

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Weyerhaeuser C0....,..,........(800) 552-7710 (004) 236-5500 A&H Windows ...........,...

..........(866) 229-761 7

EAX to 949-852-0231

or call (949) 852-1990 or mail to Building Products Digest, 4500 Campus Dr., Suite 480, Newport Beach, Ca.92660-187L

Buitding Products Digest - June 2002

more information on products or companies (see list at right), circle the appropriate

For more information from advertisers, use FAX Response numbers in brackets,

Arch Wood Protection [101]........Cover I

Bowie Sims Prange tl22l ......................27

Capital Lumber Co. [107]...........7, 33, 37

Crumpler Plastic Pipe, Inc. [112]'........18

Distribution Management Systems, Inc. t1091.............. -............17

Elder Forest Products, Inc. [117].........23

Everwood Treatment Co., Inc. t1021 .............. ...Cover Il

FasPac Inc. [110] ............17

Florida Building Material Association ................31

GRK Canada Ltd. [114]........................20

Grubb & Ellis/Wilson/I(ibler [126] .....36

Guthrie Lumber Sales [104] ...................5

Hoover Treated Wood Products tl131.............. ..............1e

International Paper Co. Engineered Wood Division [108]...........................8

Kubinec Strapping Solutions 11161......22

Louisiana-Pacific Corp. [127] ..Cover III

Lumber Tag Specialties IllE]...............23

McEwen Lumber Co. [119]...........".....25

Memphis Hardwood Flooring t1251 ....36

North American Plywood Corp. [106]...7

Redwood Empire t1281 .............Cover IV

Rusco Packaging [1 16] ........ ..................22

Want to Subscribe? Check the appropriate boxes to begin receiving your monthly issues.

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News or Comments? We welcome your comments on artlcles, the magazine, or news of your company such as promotiOnS, neW hireS, expanSiOnS or aCquiSitiOns (Tftis is afree service).

Savannah Wood Preserving ComPanY lr23l .................30

Siskiyou Forest Products [120].............26

Stambone & Associates, Inc. [116].......22

Swan Secure Products U111...........18' 26

Vinyl Windows & Door Corp. [105]......6

Weyerhaeuser Co. [103].'.......................3

Witliams Lumber Co. of North Carolina t1211.............. ..............27

Williams & Sons, Jerry G. U15l ..........2f

Wilson Lumber Co. ll24l-...................30

Wolmanized Natural Select Wood t1011.............. .....Cover I

Another reason to stock TechShield'" sheathing: We're helping builders and their homes breatlie a little easier.

Sure, radiant barriers help save energy and keep homes cooler. But many brands act as vapor barriers that hold moisture in the roof. Over time, that can lead to wood rot, callbacks, and unsatisfied customers. Maybe worst of all, a suffocating reputation.

But TechShield' radiant barrier sheathing is different. Thanks to LP's innovative incisrng process, TechShield sheathing lets homes breathe easier. The incisions in the alumrnum allow moisture to escape, yet the panels still keep upto 97% of the sun's radiant heat from entering the home, lower attic temperatures by as much as 30', and significanfly reduce energy usage.

So, when you stock TechShield, your builder customers, their homes and nomeowners will breathe easier. And you will, too. Breathable TechShield sheathing. Now, that's really cool.

sequoia@'

It's Privacy Plus, Redwood Empire's pre-built redwood fencing.

This stylish fence is loaded with no-fuss features' The solid, pre-built design saves time and money' Qrality miterials are used throughout' frgm th--e tongue and groove redwood fenceboards to the industrLl strength fasteners. The top lattice panel provides "n .*it, degree of privacy. And everyone i.tto*t redwood keeps its good looks for years and years.

So, for fence without fuss - it's Privacy PIus'

gates