BPD
EASTERN SOFTWOODS NEW WAVE OF FASTENERS CEDAR & REDWOOD MARCH 2015
Building Products Digest
INDUSTRY NEWS & MONEY-MAKING STRATEGIES FOR LUMBER & BUILDING MATERIAL DEALERS & DISTRIBUTORS
Sell the beauty of architectural harmony The 2015 Novik Dealer Program helps you grow a stronger business, by helping customers create a complete look for their home exterior — one that blends authentic textures with their personal style.
Spring Training 2015 NOVIK DEALER PROGRAM
Get your spot! Visit novik.com/dealer
®
ARCHITECTURAL SHAKE & STO N E
Visit novik.com/dealer
AZEK iPADÂŽ APP
NOW AVAILABLE
THEIR HOME. YOUR MASTERPIECE. Appease your passion for perfection with the proven performer. For over a decade, professionals have depended on AZEK Trim and Mouldings to provide the high quality their customers demand. With unmatched uniformity, durability, workability, and beauty, along with the striking architectural details of AZEK Mouldings, AZEK Trim is the brand you can trust to bring all of your customers’ visions to life. Learn how to create a one-of-a-kind exterior masterpiece at AZEK.com/for-pros. Deck | Porch | Rail | Trim | Moulding | Pavers
AZEK.com
BPD
March 2015
Volume 34 Number 1
Building Products Digest
Special Features 9 MARGIN BUILDERS
TARGET CEDAR TO NEXTGEN BUYERS
10 FEATURE STORY
FRATERNITY MAKES A COMEBACK
12 NELMA CLOSE-UP
SPF: THE OTHER HALF OF NELMA
14 NELMA CLOSE-UP
ONLINE GRADER ACADEMY GROWS
16 INDUSTRY TRENDS
NEW WAVE OF FASTENERS
44 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
REDWOOD TIMBERS STAND TEST OF TIME
30 MANAGEMENT TIPS
SORTING OUT SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS
32 NAWLA: THINKING AHEAD
EVALUATING PURCHASING SUCCESS
47 PHOTO RECAP: NRLA EXPO
In Every Issue 6 ACROSS THE BOARD 22 COMPETITIVE INTELLIGENCE 24 OLSEN ON SALES 36 FAMILY BUSINESS 40 TALK BACK 42 MOVERS & SHAKERS 44 NEW PRODUCTS 55 ASSOCIATION UPDATE 56 IN MEMORIAM 56 CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE 57 DATE BOOK 58 IDEA FILE 58 ADVERTISERS INDEX
Online BPD DIGITAL VERSION, BREAKING INDUSTRY NEWS & PHOTOS BUILDING-PRODUCTS.COM
FOLLOW ON TWITTER
TWITTER.COM/BLDGPRODUCTS
4
Building Products Digest
March 2015
BPD DIGITAL VERSION
THIS MONTH’S EDITION AS WELL BACK ISSUES OF BPD CAN BE VIEWED DIGITALLY AT BUILDING-PRODUCTS.COM
AS
Building-Products.com
–SUCCESS–
BY THE NUMBERS SUPPORTING INDEPENDENT MEMBER-OWNERS
PHILOSOPHY
SERVING OTHERS AS WE WOULD LIKE TO BE SERVED
MISSION
MAKING THE BEST EVEN BETTERÂŽ
GOAL
HELPING OUR MEMBERS GROW
At Do it Best Corp., we believe this number says it all about our #1 goal of helping our independent member-owners grow their businesses. Because they are the experts in their individual markets, they have the freedom to choose only the Do it Best Corp. programs that best meet their needs. From advertising and customer rewards, to ecommerce and much more, we offer menu-based, scalable and fully WHAT IS YOUR CO-OP DOING FOR YOU?
Learn how you can put our support for independent business owners to work for you. Call us today at 888-DO IT BEST (364-8237).
www.independentsdoitbest.com
ACROSS the Board By Patrick Adams
BPD
Building Products Digest www.building-products.com
It’s not business… it’s personal
S
OMETIMES THE BEST lessons in life are learned the hard way. We don’t know at the time how these events will influence the path of our lives. It was two weeks before Christmas. I was EVP of a multi-billion dollar division of a global publishing company, and we had just about wrapped up a pretty good year. As you would expect, things were winding down and I was sharing with my immediate team how proud I was of their hard-fought year and great results. The CEO and I had a meeting later that day. I walked in feeling confident and relieved as we had met our goals and there was little left to be accomplished for the year. He shared with me that he wanted to really give a gift to our shareholders and “wow the market” with Q4 results. He asked if there were any additional large sales opportunities remaining that could close, which of course there were none. He then instructed me to fire 10% of the global sales team, effective immediately, and that this would make our balance sheet and future forecast look fantastic. He seemed quite pleased with himself for this grand idea. A lot of things run through your mind in a situation like this. I was young and making good money. I had a new bride who I didn’t want to let down and, of course, we had big plans in life. More than anything, I thought about my team and of telling some of them after a year of hard work, they would have to go home and tell their families that they lost their jobs just two weeks before Christmas. After a lot of discussion, debate and a bit of yelling, he said, “Patrick, it’s not personal… it’s business.” In that moment, I learned a great lesson in life that shaped everything that has happened since. Shouldn’t business be at least a bit personal? We spend more hours each week at work than we do at home. We share more time with our team and customers than we do with family and friends. It is these people in business, working together with us through good times and bad, that allow us to go home to our families having fulfilled our commitments to provide for them and keep them safe. I already have learned this industry is made up of businesses that are “personal.” Sometimes it’s hard to make the “right” decision or to stand on the values of what you know is right because all around us, we see and hear that “business” doesn’t follow the same rules that apply to family, friends and common decency. In my opinion, that is the beginning of the end for a business. I can tell you that a spreadsheet or a price list does not always provide you with the “right” decision. It’s true that we all just came through a very challenging economic time and, to some degree, it changed us. What I try to remind myself is that we got through it! We pulled together, we fought hard, we stuck to our values and came out the other side. When I begin getting anxious about this new chapter in my life, I remind myself that these publications have thrived for almost 100 years through the Great Depression and more. I remind myself that I have a great team next to me, and we are here to serve our customers who have stuck with us through good times and bad. This is because I learned a long time ago that it’s not business… it’s personal! It’s true that there will be more bumps in the road ahead and the economy will never feel certain enough again. But, the one truth is that if we focus on the most important things in our business and personal lives and make those our priority, everything else will fall into place. Thank you all for your warm welcome to the industry. I look forward to working with all of you for many years to come and sharing many of our personal successes. May the “Luck of the Irish” be with you all this March and St. Patrick’s Day! Don’t hesitate to drop me a note on how you make your business personal or how we may better serve you!
Patrick S. Adams Publisher/President padams@building-products.com
6
Building Products Digest
March 2015
A publication of 526 Media Group, Inc.
151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. D200, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
President/Publisher Patrick Adams padams@building-products.com Vice President Shelly Smith Adams sadams@building-products.com Co-Publisher Alan Oakes ajoakes@aol.com Publisher Emeritus David Cutler Editor/Production Manager David Koenig david@building-products.com Associate Editor Stephanie Ornelas sornelas@building-products.com Contributing Editors Carla Waldemar, James Olsen Advertising Sales Manager Chuck Casey chuck@building-products.com Circulation Manager Heather Kelly hkelly@building-products.com
How to Advertise
PRINT or ONLINE Chuck Casey Phone (714) 486-2735 Fax 714-486-2745 chuck@building-products.com Patrick Adams Phone (714) 486-2735 Fax 714-486-2745 padams@building-products.com CLASSIFIED – David Koenig Phone (714) 486-2735 Fax 714-486-2745 david@building-products.com
How to Subscribe
SUBSCRIPTIONS Heather Kelly Phone (714) 486-2735 Fax 714-486-2745 hkelly@building-products.com or send a check to 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. D200, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 U.S.A.: One year (12 issues), $24 Two years, $39 Three years, $54 SINGLE COPIES $4 + shipping BACK ISSUES $5 + shipping FOREIGN (Contact hkelly@building-products.com for surface and air rates, including to Canada)
BUILDING PRODUCTS DIGEST is published monthly at 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. D200, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, (714) 486-2735, Fax 714-486-2745, www.building-products.com, by 526 Media Group, Inc. (a California Corporation). It is an independently owned publication for building products retailers and wholesale distributors in 37 states East of the Rockies. Copyright®2015 by 526 Media Group, Inc. Cover and entire contents are fully protected and must not be reproduced in any manner without written permission. All Rights Reserved. BPD reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter, and assumes no liability for materials furnished to it.
Building-Products.com
www.accoya.com
WOOD WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Ideal for windows, doors, siding, decking and many more applications.
German Embassy Washington DC, USA
Kelowna Marina Kelowna, Canada
FEATURES & BENEFITS Accoya® wood is produced from sustainably sourced, fast growing wood and manufactured using Accsys’ proprietary patented acetylation process from surface to core.
OUTSTANDING DURABILITY
DIMENSIONALLY STABLE
PERFECT FOR COATING
NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL WOOD
NATURALLY INSULATING
EXCELLENT MACHINABILITY
INSECT BARRIER
CONSISTENT QUALITY THROUGHOUT
UV RESISTANT
FROM SUSTAINABLE SOURCES
RETAINED STRENGTH & HARDNESS
NON-TOXIC & RECYCLABLE
Accoya® and the Trimarque Device are registered trademarks owned by Titan Wood Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Accsys Technologies PLC, and may not be used or reproduced without written permission.
MARGIN Builders Western Red Cedar
Not business as usual Targeting western red cedar to a new generation of consumers
A
continues to climb out of its slump, a new market paradigm is fast becoming the norm: namely, a tech-savvy, new generation of consumers and the explosive growth of social media are quickly changing the retail space. To survive and thrive in this changing market means understanding just how these changes affect our business and knowing exactly how to connect with key decision makers. With a mandate to enhance the demand for western red cedar, the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association is rapidly responding to these changes by leveraging technology and new media to engage today’s consumer and grow WRC’s competitive position in the market. By conducting consumer and market research, WRCLA has been gaining market intelligence on who their key consumers are, the factors driving the WRC purchase decision, their competitors’ strengths and weaknesses, and what’s needed at the retail level to facilitate sales. The survey results were extensive, and indicated the first job was to build awareness of WRC and its value proposition (beauty, cost, durability, etc.). The importance of this is underlined by the fact that more than 70% of consumers with an awareness of WRC would recommend it. WRCLA launched a new website in 2013—realcedar.com—and part of the awareness building strategy included developing and aggregating in-demand content on the site. Instructional “how-to” videos and downloadable plans for projects like S BUILDING ACTIVITY
Building-Products.com
WRC decks, trellises and pergolas were created and posted on the site and the Real Cedar YouTube channel. Topical editorials, case studies and FAQ videos were also developed to increase search engine optimization and drive traffic to the site. Without question, the biggest brand awareness building opportunity to emerge in recent years is the rise of social media. Before television and newspapers, the only form of advertising and marketing that existed was word-of-mouth. The advent of the internet brought back this type of peer-to-peer customer review (think Yelp, TripAdvisor, etc.) and the exponential growth of social media made it one of, if not the most important element in the sales deliberation process. In fact, a 2013 Dimensional Research study indicates a full 90% of customers say their buying decision is influenced by online reviews (this jumps to 94% for B2B customers). Researching products, services and gathering information on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest is now commonplace. In addition to brands needing a presence here, there are literally millions of consumers from whom to find recommendations and reviews. WRCLA uses social media platforms extensively to engage and connect with consumers, release blogs, product information, and leverage content and events. The compilation of this content has created a convenient place for consumers to inform themselves on WRC, engage with the brand, and perhaps most importantly, drive targeted website traffic and build
awareness. As awareness builds, so does the need for resources to use and buy WRC. When a consumer asks a builder or architect about the product, or starts researching, WRCLA wanted all information to aid sales in place, (Please turn to page 43)
NEW CEDAR sales tools include (from top to bottom) how-to videos on YouTube, an active social media presence, and a redesigned website with features like a Project of the Week.
March 2015
Building Products Digest
9
FEATURE Story Hoo-Hoo International
Hoo-Hoo makes charitable comeback
W
hat started a century ago as a raucous social club with a catchy name is enjoying a resurgence in popularity thanks to a renewed focus on community and industry outreach. The International Concatenated Order of Hoo-Hoo is one of the nations’s oldest service organizations, having been organized in 1892. It has survived all these years primarily due to the fact that its members are immensely interested in the welfare and promotion of the lumber industry. In January 1892, six men returning from an industry meeting were stranded in the small town of Gurdon, Ar. Brought together by chance and circumstance, the group listened to lumber trade journalist Bolling Arthur Johnson explain his idea for the first nationwide lumberman’s association. With a desire to promote high ideals and a code of ethics nationwide, the group also felt that the enjoyment of comradeship would be one of the organization’s greatest benefits. That evening, the enthusiastic group set about the task of forming the organization that today is known as International Order of Hoo-Hoo. The term “Hoo-Hoo” was expressed for the first time by Johnson, to describe an alarming tuft of hair that grew on top of the otherwise bald head of lumberman and friend, Charles H. McCarer, who later became Hoo-Hoo member #1 and the group’s first international leader, or “Snark.” The Egyptian black cat was the chosen emblem for the Order and remains the symbol today. Though the black cat symbol appears to be unlucky by many, that is the precise reason why it was chosen—the order, among other things, set out to fight superstition and conventionalism. The theme of nine, from the mythical lives of a cat, is also carried through the organization in a variety of ways. Many of the other titles, names and symbols were selected to demonstrate that the order is set apart from all others. Hoo-Hoo was originally formed to bring people of the lumber industry together in an informal, communal way for the mutual benefit of the industry, through many social gatherings and entertainment events. It was founded on the belief that personal contact is extremely important in the industry, as well as social relationships to communicate better and to build trust between people in all parts of the industry. “The social aspect of Hoo-Hoo has always been important to the organization because it allows fellowship that comes from a common interest and desire to socialize with
10
Building Products Digest
March 2015
OVER 100 YEARS AGO: The founders of Hoo-Hoo were stranded at a train station in Arkansas.Led by lumber trade journalist Bolling Arthur Johnson, they were six men with one great idea.
people of our industry. It’s brought together a community base that no other industry has,” said Southern California Hoo-Hoo Club 117 member David Tait, sales manager for Nichols Lumber & Hardware Co., Baldwin Park, Ca. Although this social concept has survived and flourished for more than 100 years, a desire to reach out and bring aid to their communities within these social settings has become a top priority, as many Hoo-Hoo organizations are contributing to charities, locally and across the country. The group seeks to instill a desire to make a sincere contribution to the industry and society through fraternal participation in its business, social and community programs. Each club chooses its own balance of activities such as industry projects and seminars to train people in the industry or to inform people in the wider community. Clubs also make it a point to focus on community service. Members are encouraged to give their time in educational or community projects, while others use club activities to raise funds for charitable organizations, often funding scholarships for forestry students and supporting programs for early forestry education for school aged children. Harry L. Folsom Club 13, Boston, Ma., funds multiple scholarships and contributes to various military charities as well as the NRLA Fund, which helps members of the lumBuilding-Products.com
ber industry that suffer from hardships. Meanwhile, Detroit Club 118 works to revive the city by remodeling vacant homes, removing drug houses and destroyed homes in addition to assisting with citizens patrol. South Dakotabased Sioux Valley Club 118 participates in various halfway house programs to help troubled individuals get back on their feet. With the importance of fellowship still in mind, clubs also meet socially at events such as golf tournaments and family barbecues. Southern California Hoo-Hoo Club 117 works diligently with City of Hope, and at its annual golf tournament, honors combat-disabled veterans through their Wounded Warriors Project. “It gives us a chance to honor them as our guests for their hard work. Our members enjoy contributing to the wounded warriors project and it’s always a touching moment to have them at the tournament,” said club president Michael Nicholson, Jones’ Wholesale Lumber, Lynwood, Ca. The spirit of Hoo-Hoo has evolved, but ultimately the goal stays the same, to strengthen the lumber industry with camaraderie, friendship and community outreach. “The association gives professionals a chance to come together as friends in the industry. It also allows for us to reach out and be a part of organizations and charities that bring aid to those who need it most and that means a lot to each member,” said Nicholson. Keeping the nine fundamental values in mind, to be helpful, grateful, friendly, tolerant, progressive, industrious, loyal, and ethical, Hoo-Hoo believes that community strength equals industry strength and Hoo-Hoo members are expected to practice these principles in both their business and personal lives.
Building-Products.com
Hoo-Hoo Clubs in the East [and their charities]
Boston, Ma.
Harry L. Folsom Club 13
[Ahearn Foundation, Jimmy Fund, NRLA Lift Fund, Strides for Survival]
hoo-hoo13.org • (870) 353-4997
Detroit, Mi.
Detroit Club 28
[Citizens Patrol, Michigan Forest Association Teachers Tour, Motor City Blight Busters]
robynroose@gmail.com • (517) 338-3216
Mendota, Mn.
Twin Cities Club 12
[Habitat for Humanity, Minneapolis & St. Paul Public Schools, Project Learning Tree, Temperate Forest Foundation, University of Minnesota Forestry School]
rprpwing@msn.com • (612) 490-8583
Volga, S.D.
Sioux Valley Club 118
[Muscular Dystrophy Bike for Cure, River of Hope]
johnn@sprengermidwest.com • (605) 334-7705
Houston, Tx.
Houston Club 23
[Boys and Girls Country, Dan Lederman Scholarship Foundation]
franksb@sbcglobal.net • (713) 733-7421
March 2015
Building Products Digest
11
SPECIAL Feature NELMA Close-Up
The other half of NELMA
Spruce-Pine-Fir
W
process, NELMA publishes both base values and adjusted Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers strength values for SPFs by grade and lumber sizes, availAssociation is well known as the grading rules-writable for viewing/printing online at www.nelma.org under ing authority for eastern white pine lumber, NELMA also the Library tab. These strength values for SPFs were administers the grading rule for lumber produced from the recently confirmed following a joint lumber testing project eastern spruces, balsam fir, red pine, and jack pine species completed in 2013 by NELMA and western U.S. lumber grown in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions of the U.S. agencies. This “monitoring” program is an industry-wide, This rule is known as the National Grading Rule (NGR) North American program implemented to test lumber every and is applied equally to all species of wood in North three to five years and compare to each species published America, principally for construction grade lumber. This strength properties to either maintain the current values or includes the grades of Select Structural, No. 1, No. 2, and adjust as necessary. No. 3 within the Structural Light Framing and Structural The Association also supports and promotes SPFs withJoists & Planks classifications, Stud grade, and the Light in its marketing program, headlined by its own website, Framing grades of Construction, Standard and Utility. www.sprucepinefir.com. With a tagline of “Reliable, Identified as the species grouping SPFs within the grade Renewable, and Readily Available,” the advantage of buystamp, the small “s” signifies that the lumber was produced ing and using SPFs lumber produced by NELMA’s memfrom logs harvested in the U.S. This differentiates the lumbers is made clear. It’s the Northeast’s closest available and ber that is produced from Canadian Spruce-Pine-Fir logs natural source for construction lumber. and marked as simply SPF. The published strength values As an added incentive for for SPF are slightly higher than specification, all-important SPFs-stamped lumber, due to LEED points come with its use each country performing sepain construction where obtaining rate lumber testing in 1991 when this highly-recognized building new numbers were assigned to designation is important; a bonus North American species and for architects, engineers, and species groupings. However, builders with LEED projects these strength differences do not from Maine to Pennsylvania. To typically impact SPFs lumber add further confidence in using use in building construction SPFs lumber, the sustainability applications as studs, joists and aspect of this species grouping is rafters for normal spans and addressed within a separate tab loading conditions. on the website. And as a one“Even after 25 years in the stop resource for buyers, full marketplace, misinformation information regarding each regarding the SPFs stamp and member manufacturer, including where the lumber may be used in full contact information, is construction still confuses endassessable under the website’s use customers,” says N E LMA Local Mills tab. president Jeff Easterling. “ObviManufacturers of SPFsously, architects, engineers, and stamped lumber located in the builders should always match northern regions of the U.S. and the required lumber strength valeastern Canada that utilize ues necessary for their specific NELMA’s grading inspection construction application to services shipped close to 1 bilensure proper long-term performance of the building.” NELMA grades SPF and other species, in addition to eastern lion bd. ft. of wood products to customers in 2014. To assist in the specification white pine. HILE THE
12
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Building-Products.com
SPECIAL Feature NELMA Close-Up
Grader Academy grows S
last May, the online Grader Academy developed by the Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association continues to add educational modules to its online course offerings. For those not familiar with this unique learning series, in 2013 N E LMA determined the need for a progressive, supplemental education tool that would take the complex nuances of lumber grading and offer it online for availability 24/7/365 to graders-in-training. While the initial thoughts behind the Academy were for it to be used only internally within the association, the concept was expanded to offer the online grading courses to INCE ITS DEBUT
THINK WOOD Think Warren Trask for the most comprehensive Eastern Pine inventory! Since 1924, Warren Trask has been committed to being the number one source for Eastern White Pine. Think Warren Trask for all your Eastern White Pine needs.
1•800•752•0121 14
www.wtrask.com
Building Products Digest
March 2015
anyone wanting or needing to learn more about lumber grades, such as employees of lumber retailers and wholesalers/brokers. This new approach takes away most of the painstaking, arduous task of memorizing N E LMA’s 200+ page Standard Grading Rules for Northeastern Lumber to learn the parameters of each lumber grade, using instead images, short videos, and comparative tables to help an individual absorb the grade-variable information. “We’ve brought 21st century learning methodology to the lumber grading profession,” according to Matt Pomeroy, NELMA’s director of inspection services. “Bringing to light the complex knowledge and quick decision-making requirements of a lumber grader is long overdue. The Above Board grader game component certainly gives an individual this insight opportunity.” The Academy’s latest addition includes new Level 300 courseware for eastern white pine grading. The six courses within this advanced learning component delve into specific interpretations of the rules and their application to the grades. This module follows the supplement booklet to the grading rules, General Definitions & Instructions for Grading Eastern White Pine. Learning how to apply saw cut limitations, grading rough stock, measuring and applying the rules for wane on opposing edges of a board, and application of the 5% cutting provision for D Select Grade are a few of the advanced topics covered in courses 300 through 306. Also added online is the Academy’s first foray into learning the construction grades for Spruce-Pine-Fir starting with Level 100: Characteristics. This courseware mimics the beginning learning module previously used for eastern white pine, but with images specific to characteristics commonly seen in the eastern spruces, balsam fir, red pine, or jack pine. Look for additional levels later this year for both eastern white pine and Spruce-Pine-Fir. Every course within the Academy may be viewed/studied at any time, but a simple registration process must be completed to take the course quizzes or to play the Above Board grader game. Access the Grader Academy at www.graderacademy.org. For questions or comments contact NELMA at (207) 829-6901 or email info@nelma.org
Building-Products.com
INDUSTRY Trends By Clark Allen, Simpson Strong-Tie
The next wave of fastener innovation
T
he search for lower installed cost is one of the biggest trends driving the fastener industry today. Manufacturers are responding by bringing to market new types of fasteners with timesaving features, such as eliminating predrilling and manufacturing integral washers. Contractors appreciate saving time and cost on a job. While it has gotten faster and easier to use fasteners in many types of construction, it has become increasingly more difficult in coastal areas of the country where building codes require using structural pilings. After the devastation of Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, many of these coastline communities have also increased the number of bolted connections required for pile construction. For decades, bolts have been used for pile construction to ensure a structurally sound connection. While this works on paper, these types of bolted connections are not user friendly to install in the field. And the more difficult the connection is to make, the more likely it won’t be done right. Many pile connections have stringers or beams on each side of the pile. This means
installers have to ensure the predrilled hole for the bolt is properly aligned through the pile and the beams/ stringers. It takes strength and the skill of a craftsman to do this timeconsuming process, often from a lift or otherwise suspended 15 feet off the ground. Given the large size of these piles, many are 12 to 14” thick, the installer also has to add the washer and tighten the bolt while blind to the back of the assembly. It can take several minutes per fastener to get the job done. These conditions have created a great need for a better approach. For example, Simpson Strong-Tie has developed a safer solution with its Strong-Drive SDWH Timber-Hex HDG screw. Specifically designed to resist severe corrosion levels in heavy-duty marine and coastal applications, the .276” diameter hot-dipped galvanized screw has a special point and integral washer, so no predrilling or separate washer is required. It’s designed to replace ¾” and 5/8” bolt/washer/nut assemblies in piers, boardwalks, structural pilings and docks, and is available in 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12”lengths. “Every new screw we develop eliminates the costly extra step of needing to predrill,” said Dr. Ed Sutt, vice president, fastening systems. “We developed the SDWH Timber-Hex HDG screw after talking to installers
GROWING TRENDS are leading to more effieicent fastening approaches designed to make installation easier than other methods, much like The Simpson Strong Tie Strong Drive line of structural fasteners. (Photo courtesy Simpson Strong-Tie)
16
Building Products Digest
March 2015
COASTAL CITIES find it to be more difficult to use fasteners in the areas of the country where building codes require using structural pilings, thus bringing a demand for fasteners that cater to these types of building situations.
in coastal areas of the country where building codes require using structural pilings. It’s exciting for us to be able to engineer and introduce a new product that our customers haven’t had until now. This new fastener will help them complete a difficult task faster and safer.” The installation of these types of fasteners takes a matter of seconds, not minutes. This adds up to hours of saved labor costs, as well as making the job faster and safer for the installers who are working high off the ground. – Clark Allen is the senior product manager of fasteners for Simpson StrongTie. For more information, visit www.strongtie.com. Building-Products.com
PRODUCT Spotlight By Charlie Jourdain, California Redwood Association
Redwood timbers stand the test of time
O
F THE MANY landscaping trends we’ve seen over the decades, one of the more enduring structures that have transcended trendiness has been the pergola. With its open sides and slatted roofs that provide some shade without blocking the sun, pergolas have served as gateways to formal gardens, freestanding structures in a yard, surrounding a hot tub, or attached to a house over the deck. More recently we’ve seen pergolas serve as a visual anchor for outdoor kitchens. When specifying the materials to construct something as timeless as a pergola, your customers will want something that stands the test of time. Natural products such as stone and wood create an effortless transition outdoors from the ground to the planned space. Of all the products available, redwood timbers should be at the top of the building materials list.
TIMELESS TREND of backyard pergolas is an ideal use for redwood.
18
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Defined by the American Softwood Lumber Standard, timbers are lumber of nominal 5” or greater thickness in least dimension. Timbers are also designated as beams, stringers, posts, caps, sill, girders or purlins. More durable than Douglas fir and stronger than western red cedar, redwood timbers, beams and posts are a great choice for pergolas or any shade structure. Redwood is ideal for a wide range of projects where large structural components and natural durability are required. Its natural properties make it the perfect material for structural yet visually appealing jobs. It has excellent strength and durability, shrinks and swells less than other materials, and is less likely to warp or split. And each piece of lumber is naturally unique, with its own grain, color, and texture. Redwood timbers are available in 6” and larger sizes, in lengths up to 24 feet. While technically not defined as timbers, redwood dimension lumber 3” and 4” thick are available to complement your timber structures. Most commonly manufactured in the RIS-defined grades of Construction Heart or Heart B, No. 2 Heart Structural Open Grain redwood can be specified where well established structural design values are required. Supplied green or unseasoned, surfaces can be specified smooth, saw-textured or rough sawn. A high percentage of this material will be supplied free of heart center which enhances dimensional stability and long-term appearance and performance. Redwood timbers also make beautiful interior design elements when used in exposed frame construction, producing dramatic results and lending the natural beauty and strength of wood to building projects. Let’s not forget that redwood is a renewable, recyclable and biodegradable material that provides environmental advantages over alternative building materials. Redwood timbers are milled from carefully managed and responsibly raised forestlands. Ask your suppliers about the availability of FSC certified timbers (100% of California Redwood Association member-owned timberlands are FSC certified). By purchasing redwood, your customers also support U.S.based industry, local jobs, and the domestic economy. Naturally strong, aesthetically pleasing, decay-resistant, and environmentally friendly, redwood timbers are a great choice for your customers’ structural building needs. To learn more about one of nature’s most environmentally friendly, beautiful and strong building materials, visit www.realstrongredwood.com. Building-Products.com
MANAGEMENT Tips By John Watson, Elkay Manufacturing
Sustainability products: Sorting out the facts
S
EEMS LIKE every time building industry people get together, they talk about sustainability—including sustainable or “green” product certifications, and the issues surrounding them. There are still no regulatory mandates regarding product sustainability standards—and there are literally hundreds of different green certifications, symbols and seals that manufacturers use voluntarily to show compliance with a set of general requirements. At the same time, consumers continue to indicate that buying green products–particularly in their living spaces–is an important purchasing criterion. But consumers, like the dealers and wholesalers that serve them, are somewhat at a loss to know how to judge the products that they are looking to buy. They look to their suppliers to help educate them and make them feel good about the products they are putting into their homes. So, there is clearly an increased emphasis on doing something, but what is the right thing to do? It doesn’t help that the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Certification, easily the most widely recognized voluntary standard that is operating in this space, does not outline specific requirements for products. The standard focuses on the overall, cumulative impact of the building. Certainly the products that go into a building contribute to this overall environmental impact, but no one product within the building plan has sufficient scale to determine whether a building meets LEED certification requirements. For example, when it comes to acquiring points for water efficiency, nearly all products connected to the water system can have an impact on the level of efficiency achieved because the requirements consider total water usage. As a result, it’s unlikely that any one product can make a substantial difference given all of the products that are part of the system; together the products contribute towards the building’s overall water savings, but no one product alone secures the certification. Out of the hundreds of voluntary product standards previously mentioned, few entail requirements that touch on a broad range of sustainability issues that have an overall impact on the environment. One example of a voluntary standard that does incorporate a complete range of sustainability specifications is Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association’s stewardship program for kitchen and bathroom cabinets, known as the Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP). KCMA’s ESP requires manufacturers to achieve points
20
Building Products Digest
March 2015
in each of the following elements: air quality, product resources, process resources, environmental stewardship, and community relations—a full complement of worthwhile categories that together provide a positive impact on the environment.
Hot Trend: Transparency
One of the key subjects you’ll hear about in sustainability discussions these days is transparency, but is it really a trend or has the vision of transparency been a component of sustainability from the very start? Transparency can be defined in several ways, but as it relates to sustainability, it can be generally termed as the full disclosure of a product or process. In this area, you’ll hear terms like LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) or EPD (Environmental Product Declaration). These are tools manufacturers can use to disclose everything about the product or process and its impact on the environment. Typically, LCAs are conducted in an effort to produce a complete EPD, providing complete information about the product or process throughout its entire lifecycle. EPDs also included information about the energy used in the manufacturing process, the energy saved by use of the product/process, the impact on the carbon footprint, the materials used or consumed and many other relevant Building-Products.com
topics. Some manufacturers have already began using and distributing EPDs, as doing so can contribute towards acquiring points in the newest LEED standard (Version 4).
Things to Watch
Eventually there will be national or even international environmental mandates established by regulatory officials, including perhaps, our government. By the time this occurs, manufacturers may welcome them, because the burden of compliance across many different regional authorities becomes unmanageable, and having a single unifying standard provides relief. If history has anything to say about it, these will likely align with the most proven and widely adopted voluntary standards at play in the market. Today that may likely be LEED certification, but there are other standards developers who are working to create alternatives. There has been an emerging emphasis on understanding the total lifetime impact of a product or process. This will likely lead to manufacturers and suppliers being held accountable for the end-to-end life cycle of the products they sell—providing a means of managing the product from cradle to grave, ensuring that construction materials are reclaimed and recycled rather than winding up in a landfill.
The Bottom Line
Understand your customers. Find out what they care about in the environmental space, and then do your homework to find specific certification standards that can provide them with a meaningful degree of comfort they are looking for (i.e., no “greenwashing” with a cute logo—the
Building-Products.com
SUSTAINABLE CABINETS by Schuler Cabinetry follow KCMA’s Environmental Stewardship Program, which requires manufacturers to achieve points in various elements.
standard must have some legitimate weight). If the products you are asked to purchase lack the appropriate certification, do your part by demanding that your suppliers certify to the standard your customers demand. – John Watson is the manager of compliance & sustainability at Elkay Manufacturing. Reach him via Elkay.com.
March 2015
Building Products Digest
21
COMPETITIVE Intelligence By Carla Waldemar
Supersize it
T
one who resides in the shadow of the country’s biggest shopping mall: Americans are charmed by the power of size. From mega-churches to cruise ships holding the state of Maryland to a McDonald’s burger, who wants to settle for M when they can opt for XXL? Maybe that was the thinking behind the expansion of Kenyon Noble Lumber & Hardware nearly 10 years ago, when the company replaced a 7,000-sq. ft. facility with a new showroom spanning 53,000? Plus, add on 34,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space, up from a former 14,000, anchoring 18 expansive acres on the edge of town under Bozeman, Mt.’s fabled blue skies. Parking is no longer a problem. On the original 2.5-acre downtown site, contractors had to wrestle for one of 20 parking slots or get creative on the sidewalk. No longer do those frustrated pros have to pick their way through city streets as if following a hearse, wasting an hour of their time-is-money workday. Now they’ve got their own contractors’ entrance, too—and everything else on their shopping list, from concrete to trusses, all under one roof. I mean, This. Place. Is. Huge. AKE IT FROM
Yes, it’s Montana—but even so, one has to ask: why? Reports G.M. Mike Thompson, who came onboard nine years ago, right at the outset. “It looked like a big box was planning to open a megastore in town, so the owners”—Rick and Bill Ogle—“decided we’d better take care of our own customers with all their product needs to keep ’em from the competitor’s door. They studied traffic patterns and looked for land in the direction the city was developing and got started, just as the market peaked—eight months before the downturn.” “So,” Mike continues, “it’s been a learning experience, forcing a lot of changes in a short period of time.” To make a go of it during these trying days, it became vital to think differently about employees. “We learned that some people are better than other, runof-the-mill people. (We let a few go, but not a lot.) We realized we needed everybody to bring their best to the table every day. If they weren’t on board, we’d find someone who would be. Even if we didn’t need an individual right at the moment, when we found a high-caliber person we hired them. We went out and tried to pick the really, really good people—the
SPONSORING a steady stream of special events keeps foot traffic strong.
best we could find.” For instance, the go-getter with the good attitude who’d been selling appliances elsewhere. “We’d never handled appliances before, but we hired him and added that niche to our Design Center—and today we’re the only Viking and Whirlpool Builder Dealer in Bozeman. We grew market share where there was none before.” With paint, too. “A paint department may not be typical in our type of store, but we found a fellow who worked for the competition, but they weren’t taking care of him; lots of false promises. So even though we were completely staffed, we hired him, and this guy is amazing. Now we’re the number-one paint dealer in Bozeman and among the top in the nation. We’ve taken those new categories through the roof in sales.” At the same time he was adding those SKUs, Mike was faced with ditching others—a big, and ongoing, deal. “Our distributor had suggested lots of items we found we didn’t need. We decided to become pro-focused and not try to serve everybody. We looked at what our pros wanted and didn’t keep trying to be everything to everyone. We became more focused: inventory up, but SKUs down. We got rid of the dog food. And we’d had 80 linear ft. of automotive, which we scrapped. There were a lot of hard changes—moving and changing so many categories—but the transition was good and resulted in a far better product mix. The layout had to change a lot; in fact,” he notes, “we’ve changed every lineal foot of the store.” The company has three locations, including Belgrade, eight miles distant, and Livingston, 23 miles away. With the exception of lumber purchased for the entire corporation and delivered by its fleet of 25 trucks, the
three stores operate pretty independently. “They’re very, very different, even being so close,” Mike explains. “Each customer base is dramatically different—who lives where—and each store gears itself to best serve its own clients. Still, the company had never done a retail project the size of the Bozeman store, so there are a few things we wish we had been better-educated about, like traffic patterns and how people shop.” And why do those customers—75% pro, these days— like dealing with Kenyon Noble? “First, our selection,” Mike believes. “Also, our really good customer service. Our delivery times are super-fast. We can pull a project’s whole frame in 24 hours. This is a very competitive market, with other independents, the boxes, and little hardware stores, so you need to be at the top of your game. We’re surrounded by competition, so we’ve decided we will fight for our business, instead of just sitting there, selling.” To help lock in that loyalty, Kenyon Noble hosts customer-appreciation events, like arriving at the rising subdivision with a barbecue feast for its crews. And by carrying premier products they can’t readily get elsewhere. “We completely re-did our power tool area, focusing on construction and woodworking power tools. We’re the area’s only Bosch BSS dealer, and we’re a Makita Pro Center. “Most of our contractors use us exclusively for everything they need, exterior to finish. Our goal is to make our pro customers successful, to grow their business: Then we’ve succeeded. We see ourselves as their partners, not just their suppliers. These days, we not only focus on services, but are coming on more aggressively to compete. We can offer them one-stop shopping with six inside salespeople, just at Bozeman plus two outside salespeople, to serve them and be able to retain their business.” And that’s why there’s also a new focus on staff morale. “We work as a team, so if someone is bringing the rest of the group down, we work on team-building—find out what motivates each individual, then make it clear that you have to think positively, or we can’t have you here.” Employees, numbering close to 100 these days, are trained by shadowing an old-timer. And they become multi-faceted. “You have your area of expertise, but also everybody learns to do everything. You’ve got to be fluid. I might even cashier ten percent of the day,” says Mike. “We all know how to serve the retail customer, too—especially the women in the Design Center.” And (how often have I heard this lately? Like… never) in Bozeman, costly custom houses are sprouting faster than dandelions. The main concerns are finding available land Building-Products.com
WITH RUMORS that big boxes were coming to town, Montana’s Kenyon Noble expanded its operations ten-fold.
and water-rights issues, not coming up with the cash. “Bozeman has a very high quality of life—amazing fishing and hunting—so people are moving in from other areas, and the cost of living is such that they can afford a very nice house. Last year, our sales were higher than at our previous peak before the recession,” Mike declares. “There’s a pent-up demand” and a consequent surge in new-home starts. (“But it will plateau,” he is aware.) Yes, affluent folks are relocating here. But the flip side to that shiny coin, says Mike, is that “We’re the unknown. Many newcomers will go with the brands they recognize, the Lowe’s and Home Depots. So our challenge is to make people comfortable with us.” Thus, Kenyon Noble regularly sponsors community events for that very purpose. Halloween featured a kids’ pumpkin-carving contest; there’s also a Junior Carpenter event and a family-friendly home show, where folks can get up-close and personal with actual vendors. Company personnel also serve on community boards like the YMCA. And to back up those soft endeavors, its in-house marketing department continually creates strong print-ad campaigns. All of which means Mike isn’t going anywhere else anytime soon. “I came from a corporate background; they were good at merchandising from the shoppers’ perspective, but still, I could not stand it,” he reports. “New ideas were always quashed.” Not here. Think back to the series of corrections we’ve noted after the original grand opening of the mega-store. “There’s not enough good I can say about the owners: From Day One, I could always try new things, take risks, and they had my back. I could stick my neck out, even if I made mistakes (as long as we could learn from them). I love my job! It’s a positive place to work, and there’s always somebody onsite who knows the answer. The management team works with folks as individuals, to get the best from everybody,” even in an establishment the size of a zip code. There’s a technical term for that kind of interaction: It’s called win-win. Carla Waldemar cwaldemar@comcast.net March 2015
Building Products Digest
23
OLSEN On Sales By James Olsen
We have a sales culture, don’t we?
D
ON’T ALL companies have a sales culture? How could anyone stay in business without one? Yet many businesses think they have a sales culture when they don’t. Some businesses have a competitive advantage of product, history or location. Top management is made up of engineers, production people, or operators. They hire salespeople. But what do they think of salespeople? Are salespeople money-making partners or a necessary evil? Other businesses began with a sales culture. Often the founder and a few loyal employees build a company through an innovative idea, will and salesmanship. Momentum and other market factors grow the company. The leader and other early employees move out of sales. As they hire salespeople, they’re often disappointed with the results. “Why don’t they do it the way we did it?” (Because founders have a rare fire. Salespeople must be led.) This dissatisfaction breeds distrust. In some companies, the division between management and sales is never bridged. These companies grow, but not as quickly as they should. And, if their competitive advantage decreases due to market forces, without a strong sales culture, they fail.
Career Path & Upper Representation
Who in upper management represents the sales team? The answer to this question will give us an idea of how strong our sales culture is. Many companies have finance, HR, operations and engineering ahead of sales on the organization chart. Some companies do not have a career path for salespeople beyond sales manager. Not all salespeople want to move to upper management, but some do. They should know there is a career path into upper management. Salespeople want a (sales) representative in upper management, even if it isn’t them.
Clear Compensation
A friend of mine says, “There are two kinds of people in business; those that want to pay salespeople and those that don’t.” Is our compensation package clear and easy to understand? Can we explain our commission schedule in less than two sentences? I worked with a non-sales culture company. The first day they showed me their commission schedule. It was convoluted. I asked v.p.s, GMs, and salespeople if they could explain their compensation program to me and over two years no one could. Their most experi-
24
Building Products Digest
March 2015
enced master seller told me, “James, I don’t understand it, never have. I don’t think they want us to understand it.” After two years with this company, I had to agree. A clear commission schedule will motivate and inspire our sales team. A compensation package that is over-complicated or vague, won’t. If we write a compensation program that has a “hole” in it—meaning it pays our salespeople to do things we don’t really want them to do—fix it, now, and our team will sell to it.
Train, Celebrate & Motivate
Do we invest in our sales team? Education and training are important for our sales team to increase skills. Too many companies confuse “product training” with “sales training.” Salespeople need to know their product, but must upgrade their sales skills to increase their sales results! Do we celebrate sales? What do we do for our top performers? What do we do if our entire team has a great sales day, week, month or year? Great sales organizations post effort and result numbers publicly and daily. Effort KPI’s, phone time, number of calls, etc., keep pressure on the top performers to continue to work hard. Daily posting of results will inspire our team to compete and win. Salespeople work for commission and recognition. Salespeople love to compete, so give them fun contests. It shows we care. It helps morale. Consider contests for everything—the first sale of the day, the next sale, the first multiple sale, the highest margin, the most volume. Team contests—match best seller with worst, second best with second worst, etc., and have them compete as teams. A strong sales culture helps us survive and thrive in competitive markets and helps us dominate and maximize in expanding markets. James Olsen Reality Sales Training (503) 544-3572 james@realitysalestraining.com Building-Products.com
San Marcos Yard Nears End
Tuttle Lumber, San Marcos, Tx., is closing March 14 after 65 years. Owner Don Gilbreath, whose father bought the company in 1979, launched a retirement sale Feb. 5. A sister store in Lockhart, Tx., will remain open.
Cassity Jones Agrees to Purchase Allen Millwork
Cassity Jones Lumber, Longview, Tx., has signed a definitive agreement to purchase assets of wholesaler Allen Millwork, Shreveport, La. Cassity Jones currently operates in six locations in the East Texas and
Dallas area. “We’ve known and respected Allen Millwork for decades, and we are excited to begin servicing contractor customers in the Shreveport/Bossier City area with their team,” said CEO John L. Jones.
Millworker Crushed to Death
OSHA is investigating the Jan. 23 death of a worker at Gilman Building Products, Dudley, Ga. Gus Harden, 24, became trapped and crushed beneath pallets of lumber. Co-workers removed the wood, so paramedics could reach him, but he died at a hospital about an hour later.
DEALER Briefs The Lumberyard is the new name of Brand X Lumber , Chaseburg, Wi., following its sale from Joe Berra and Marvin Lehrke to Chand and April Wehling. SW Collins Co. opened a new store in Lincoln, Me., featuring 18,000 sq. ft. of retail space and a 30,000-sq. ft. drive-thru lumberyard. For the past two years, Collins had been operating in town from the former Haskell Lumber site. Northbrook Ace Hardware & Rental , Northbrook, Il., has closed after 45 years.
South Euclid True Value Hardware , South Euclid, Oh., has
moved to new quarters four times the size of its previous home.
Eastman’s Ace Hardware , Falmouth, Ma., is adding a 3,000-sq. ft. kitchen supply shop. Shep’s Midtown Ace Hardware, Atlanta, Ga., has been opened
by Zach Stafford.
Ace Hardware, Norton, Ma., is opening late this month in a former 9,000-sq. ft. Aubuchon Hardware building (Ed Siegal and Glenn Finkelstein, owners). ABC Supply opened a new branch in Cumberland, Md., and relocated its facilities in Bloomington, In.; E. Peoria, Il.; and Oklahoma City, Ok. Habitat for Humanity relocated its 13-year-old ReStore discount LBM outlet in Freehold, N.J., to a larger facility. Menards is targeting a late summer opening for its new mega-store in Jamestown, N.D. Anniversaries: Huttig Building Products, St. Louis, Mo., 130th … Ward Lumber, Jay, N.Y., 125th … Robey Building Supply, Monroe City, Mo., 110th … Colucci Lumber, Malaga, N.J., 70th … H&H Building Supply , Roselle Park, N.J., 70th … Ashland Lumber , Ashland, Ma., 60th … Stephenson Lumber Co. , Chestertown, N.Y., 30th …
26
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Building-Products.com
BSF Buys Timber Tech Texas
Builders FirstSource, Dallas, Tx., has purchased Timber Tech Texas, Cibolo, Tx.—its sixth acquisition since mid-2014. Timber Tech is a manufacturer of roof trusses, floor trusses, wall panels and sub-components, as well as a supplier of glue-laminated timber and veneer lumber beams. It operates from a 10-acre facility, serving both residential and commercial builders in the San Antonio metro area and throughout the state. Fiscal 2014 estimated sales approximately $5 million.
Former owner Gary Weaver will stay on under the new ownership.
Store Moving into Lumber
Ten months after the local lumberyard closed, Grafton True Value Hardware, Grafton, N.D., is expanding into lumber and has added “& Lumber” to its name. Owner Kerry Demars is holding his lumber inventory at the former Simonson Lumber & Hardware yard, and has begun relocating all of his hardware inventory to the new site. The move will be complete by the time the yard is remodeled this spring.
East Haven’ Haven’ss new yard had multiple site challenges. So, we presented multiple solutions.
SUPPLIER Briefs Pleasant River Lumber , Dover-Foxcroft, Me., was purchased by Moose River Lumber Co ., Moose River, Me. Thruway Hardwood & Plywood, Buffalo, N.Y., and Syracuse Forest Products, Syracuse, N.Y., have been acquired by Richelieu Hardware, Montreal, P.Q. Maibec, Levis, P.Q., completed its acquisition of Fraser Timber’s Masardis, Me., mill and over the next two years will upgrade the facility, which currently produces 100+ million bd. ft. of softwood lumber annually. Cropper Bros Lumber , Willards, Md., suffered $250,000 in damages in a Feb. 9 electrical fire. Georgia-Pacific’s gypsum wallboard plant in Newington, N.H., had its warehouse roof collapse under snow. No workers were in the building when the roof caved in Feb. 17, because the day before an engineer had deemed the structure compromised due to the snow load. Windy Hill Sawmill , Greenwich, N.Y., was destroyed by a Feb. 18 fire caused by a welder’s spark igniting nearby sawdust. BlueLinx is now distributing Boral TruExterior trim and siding
To transform their new location in Manchester, CT, into a customer-focused facility, East Haven Builders Supply had to deal with a small, oddly shaped site and an impractical existing warehouse. Each challenge required unique turnkey solutions – from the warehouse to o a new 3-sided shed, T-shed and L-shed in the yard – all of which we built into one high-performing location. To see the video, v go to
Sunbelt Rack.com m/stories Sunbelt-Rack.com/stories
www.CT T-Dar nell.com • www.Sunbelt-Rack.com • 800-353-0892
products throughout the Upper Midwest from its DCs in Maple Grove, Mn.; Des Moines, Ia.; and Wausau, Wi. BlueLinx’s DCs in Richmond, Va., and Fredrick, Md., are now distributing NyloBoard’s NyloDeck, NyloPorch and NyloSheet products in the midAtlantic region. The company also expanded its distribution of Fiberon decking and railing products to 14 more DCs—Denver, Co.; Jacksonville and Tampa, Fl.; Chicago, Il.; Detroit and Grand Rapids, Mi.; Kansas City and St Louis, Mo.; Charlotte and Raleigh, N.C.; Akron and Cincinnati, Oh.; Charleston, S.C.; and Nashville, Tn.
Caterpillar Forest Products
will spend $25 million expanding its LaGrange, Ga., plant. GENERAL CONTRACTING
DESIGN AND PLANNING
PRE-ENGINEERED BUILDINGS
© WTD Holdings, Inc., 2015. All rights rreserved. eserved.
28
Building Products Digest
March 2015
RACK SYSTEMS
Rev-A-Shelf, Jefferson, Ky., has moved into a new 315,000-sq. ft. corporate headquarters in Louisville, Ky. Building-Products.com
Drive New Business
ew Scr EEL ing to k -ST -TO ite Dec aming ITE r s POSCompo Deck F el Ste OM
速
DC DCS
ew Scr g TE n OSI Decki MP CO posite DCU f Com so ype All T
crew ; SS D S dwalks OO r Trim P W Boa DW s, and rk and ck wo , Do Milll king ing, Dec Finish
ew Scr s k OD WO , Doc ARD king walks D H Dec rd DHP wood nd Boa d a Har
ew Scr d n OD WO ing a DSV d Deck ations c eate Appli d e-Tr ativ o-Woo t serv Pre Woodrior Exte
Part of the Complete Line of Simpson Strong-Tie Fastening Solutions
Drive new fastener sales with Simpson Strong-Tie® Deck-Drive™ screws. Each screw is specifically designed for its application. Whether working with wood decking, premium composite or exotic hardwood, we have a fastener to fit the project – and it will drive faster and easier than competitors. Once your customers try our Deck-Drive fasteners, they’ll come back again and again. Contact your local rep for samples and a demo at (800) 999-5099 and learn more at strongtie.com/deckdrive.
©2015 Simpson
Strong-Tie Company Inc. DD14-D
THINKING Ahead By Laura Ebersberger, UFP Purchasing
Purchasing:
How to evaluate success This is the third article in a three-part series where NAWLA volunteers offer their perspectives on purchasing. Part one (Jan. 2015) focused on how lumber is bought. Part two (Feb.) looked at an example of a specific buying behaviour based on the Suggested Purchase Order. The final article of the series will focus on how to evaluate the success of your efforts.
I
part of this series, Martin Carter with Carter Forest Products Inc. shared how there are many schools of thought on how to purchase lumber, but successful lumber buying in an office wholesale context is about having a great plan and making sure it is executed effectively. In the second part of the series, Anthony Muck of DMSi Software detailed a specific way to help with inventory management and efficiency in both the warehouse and front office by using a Suggested Purchase Order (SPO) to create orders based on the supplier, product group or buyer. In this third and final issue of the series, we’ll explore the importance of evaluating your purchasing success. Monitoring the success of your purchasing decisions is an important business practice. Stepping back and reflecting on your purchasing methods and decisions can pinpoint successes and disservices to your role as a buyer and as an employee. During the heat of buying, things typically move quickly, and you have to think quickly and stay on your toes. Due to this, you can sometimes be unaware of things that you are doing that could be detrimental to the success of your job. Even a great buyer can find ways to improve their practices. By evaluating your practices on a regular basis, you N THE FIRST
32
Building Products Digest
March 2015
can pinpoint issues and correct them to have a better experience in the future. There are many different ways to evaluate your success. This article will outline some effective practices to help you evaluate your purchasing decisions to help you grow and develop better purchasing methods.
Two Eyes Are Better than One
As the old adage goes, being on the outside looking in can produce a different perspective than being on the inside looking out. That’s why it’s important to engage a trusted colleague to help you evaluate your purchasing efforts. When you bring another person in, they bring their own experience, background, and methods that may shed light on helpful or hindering practices. Sharing best practices with others in your field that you respect will also broaden your own knowledge base.
What Really Matters When Evaluating the Success of Lumber Purchasing
Every purchase has different components and it’s sometimes difficult to measure Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) using technology or numbers. Different pricing zones, freight and weather are a few of the variables that software can’t accurately account for. When looking to measure your performance level, request feedback from your plants and vendors. The satisfaction of your vendors and the plants you service is your primary KPI, so talking to them and seeking their feed-
Building-Products.com
A Special Series from North American Wholesale Lumber Association
and plant contacts about what you can do to prevent miscommunication from happening again—attack the issue head on. Should I be communicating more often? Less often? Over the phone? In person? Via email? Initiate these conversations to show you’re invested. You’ll find that the main action item that comes from your purchasing evaluation will lead back to better communication. And when you find that your purchasing methods are hitting the mark, remember there is always room for improvement. You can have a great relationship with a vendor or a plant, but without continued evaluation of your efforts, you can still miss out on opportunities to do things better. Even when your purchasing is meeting needs, you can always explore other options. Regarding the frequency of measuring your success, you may consider assessing your purchasing on a weekly basis. Set aside time to ask yourself: How have I handled this? Are there things I need to address? Anything I need to question? Do I need to reach out to this vendor one more time? Do I need to investigate needs at my plant one more time?
Registration Open for NAWLA’s 2015 Leadership Summit
Want to hear more from industry-leading wholesalers and manufacturers about how they buy and sell lumber? Join them at NAWLA’s Leadership Summit, March 22-24 at The Westin Kierland in Scottsdale, Az. The event brings together mid-level managers and executives and industry-leading companies to discuss top-of-mind business topics and solutions for driving revenue growth and streamlining operations. View the agenda and register at www.nawla.org.
back is paramount. There’s a saying that you can’t do good business with bad people. If your facilities and vendors don’t feel taken care of, then there’s likely a disconnect that could affect your entire business. It is also good to explore self introspect. Ask yourself: Am I serving my vendors as well as my plants? Do vendors give me positive feedback when I’m done with the deals? Do they feel good about the business after I’m done? Am I acting too quickly? Not responding fast enough? Am I solving problems or creating them with my purchases?
Action Items: What to Do With Your Evaluation Results
Communication is the key factor in purchasing. If in your conversations with plants and vendors you discover a need for improved communication, talk to your vendors
Building-Products.com
Final Thoughts
There’s always something to learn, so take in as much information as possible and apply that into your buying practices. Purchasing is similar to sales: You have to sell your company and yourself to your vendors not only through relationships but also by being honest, responsible and efficient. This allows you to have an open-door policy that encourages communication on successes and shortcomings. For anyone new to lumber purchasing, find the strongest leaders in the company and observe how they operate. Adopt practices from their methods that work well with you and your personality. Seek their advice, talk to them on a regular basis, and use their feedback (positive and negative) to help strengthen your purchasing skills. – Laura Ebersberger is a buyer with the UFP Purchasing division of Universal Forest Products.
About NAWLA
NAWLA (North American Wholesale Lumber Association) is the association that delivers unparalleled access to relationships and resources that improve business strategy and performance through sales growth, cost savings, and operational efficiencies for wholesalers and manufacturers of forest products and other building materials that conduct business in North America. Learn more about how NAWLA can help your business at www.nawla.org.
March 2015
Building Products Digest
33
Taylor and Leah Baker have purchased Discount Builders Supply, Pilot Mountain, N.C., and renamed it Foothills Hardware & Builders Supply. Ron Moorefield, who opened the yard in 1990, was ready to retire and turned to Taylor Baker, who had been calling on him for the last seven years as a rep for Orgill.
Surane, executive vice president, marketing, merchandising, and sales, Ace Hardware Corp. “We also think there’s a huge value to consumers in having their products delivered by a helpful Ace associate, who they might even recognize from their local store.” Ace’s Express Delivery pilot officially rolled out in 33 stores on Jan. 26 in select neighborhoods in Florida, Illinois, Colorado, Maryland, Texas and Arizona.
Ace Experiments with SameDay Delivery
Marvin Repositions Brands
Founder Sells N.C. Yard
Ace Hardware launched a pilot Express Delivery program which allows customers to find the products they need on acehardware.com and have them delivered the same day by a helpful associate from their neighborhood Ace. The program is designed by Ace to further extend their helpful brand promise as the company continues to add new ways to serve the needs of customers. “With 4,400 stores stocking the most locally relevant product assortments, Ace has a unique opportunity to become a big player in the same day delivery landscape once our pilot program concludes,” said John
Marvin Windows & Doors has repositioned its various brands to bring its Marvin, Integrity and Infinity replacement windows together under a single fenestration portfolio. The move is designed to better demonstrate the strength and breadth of the company’s product portfolio and variety of solutions available to its customers. A new Marvin Family of Brands website has been launched that allows consumers to easily search for product solutions from all brands at the same time, versus having to visit each division’s websites to find the best solution to fit their needs. The new site is optimized for desk-
top and mobile devices and includes more intuitive search options, plus new dealer and trade tools and customer support documents that allow trade professionals and dealers to better serve their customers with easy access to product, warranty and service information. In addition, there are new comparison tools that allow users to zero in on a product solution that best meets their particular needs, either by window or door type, or by brand.
Log Truck Driver Killed
A log truck driver was killed Feb. 12 at West Fraser Timber, Newberry, S.C., when he was pinned between his load and another log truck that rolled in behind him in the unloading line. Dan Frederick Little, 51, was standing at the rear of his rig removing the load warning flag. The driver of the next truck in line left his cab to go to the rear of his own vehicle when his truck rolled forward, pinning Little. “The impact caused immediate death,” said county coroner Craig Newton. The accident is currently under investigation by the highway patrol.
Size does matter. Douglas Fir up to 20” x 20” x up to 40’ Cedar 16” x 16” x up to 32’
Richardson Timbers is a leader in custom millwork & manufacturing of customized timbers, with capabilities of delivering products throughout the U.S. Serving the construction industry for over 60 years, by taking the spirit of the old & combining it with the leading technology of today, Richardson Timbers is able to offer wholesale products with unparallelled service & quality.
Richardson Timbers
toll free (877)
34
Building Products Digest
318-5261 phone (214) 358-2314 fax (214) 358-2383 www.richardsontimbers.com
March 2015
Building-Products.com
FAMILY Business By Wayne Rivers
Stop working so hard!
T
about running a business I’ve ever received is to buy into the myth of long hours and never-ending hard work. At a speech to a group of highway contractors, an earnest 40-somethingyear-old said, “One of the key ingredients is to work harder and longer than any of your employees. If they don’t see you working hard, they won’t work hard either, and they won’t respect you.” This is a powerful and pervasive myth. The idea that a 100hour work week is the only way to earn respect and be productive is simply ridiculous! Are there other ways to gain peoples’ respect without working yourself HE WORST ADVICE
36
Building Products Digest
into an early grave? What do you think they really value: the time and effort you put in or the results you produce? Hours spent at work doing tasks that others could do as well, better or cheaper than you crowds out
March 2015
family, health and fitness, relaxation and rejuvenation. It crowds out time you desperately need to plan, dream, meet, develop your employees, and deliberate on the future of your business so that you can get ahead of the firefighting curve and, finally, prosper. The hard-work myth causes entrepreneurs to build traps for themselves. By working extreme hours and being the go-to person for every decision, leaders make their companies dependent on their personal production, and they consequently fail to cultivate superstar employees. The trap springs one day when the entrepreneur desires a little more freedom and time off only to find that his employees can’t, won’t or aren’t capable of making business decisions in his absence. The true test of entrepreneurial success is whether one can build a business that can survive their absence, and that challenge requires that leaders focus less on themselves and more on developing talent in the organization. – Wayne Rivers is the co-founder and president of the Family Business Institute, Raleigh, N.C., and author of such books as The Top Nine Reasons Family Businesses Fail. Reach him at wayne.rivers@familybusinessinstitute.com or (877) 326-2493.
Building-Products.com
Gypsum Dealer Buys into Iowa
Gypsum Management & Supply, Tucker, Ga., the largest distributor of drywall in the U.S., has agreed to acquire Serrano Drywall Supply, Iowa City, Ia. Serrano becomes the eleventh location under GMS’s Tamarack Materials banner. “We are excited about the expansion into Iowa,” said Jerry Speights, v.p. of the Central Division of GMS. “The combined strength of the Tamarack and Serrano brands will come together in Iowa City, presenting an exciting opportunity to service our customers.”
Wood-Mizer Plans New Factory
Wood-Mizer LLC will build a new sawmill manufacturing plant in Batesville, In., to replace its current facility in New Point, In. Scheduled for completion in December, the 85,000-sq. ft. plant on 13 acres will produce portable sawmills, industrial sawmills, and blade maintenance equipment.
CalStar Transitions to Larger Plant
CalStar Products, Durham, N.C., is shifting production from its pilot plant in Racine, Wi., to its new state-of-theart facility in Columbus, Ms., increasing capacity and geographic reach for its brick, masonry and decorative trim products. The new 100,000-sq. ft. facility sits on 23 acres in northern Mississippi near the Alabama border. It features room to grow, with additional capacity already being added to keep up with growing demand for a new line of decorative trim cast stone products. The Racine plant will maintain its quality assurance and testing facilities, and the majority of the front office staff for administrative support.
Random Lengths Publishes Latest Directory, Yearbook
The latest editions of two leading reference guides serving the North American softwood forest products industry are now available. Published annually by Random Lengths, the 2015 Big Book is the largest and most widely recognized directory of the North American softwood industry. The 2014 Yearbook is the industry’s most comprehensive source of historical market information. The Big Book’s 808 pages contain 3,992 listings of U.S., Canadian and offshore softwood companies and 15,608 personnel. The convenient guide shows addresses, phone and fax numbers, email addresses, websites, company profiles, and other valuable information. More than 85% of the listings from the 2014 edition have been updated. The 2014 Yearbook features more than 340 pages of data and provides price histories for the past 11 years for 309 key lumber and panel items, including 19 new items. Easy-to-read graphs track monthly price averages for the past five years. The Yearbook lists economic data, such as housing starts and home mortgage rates for 2011-2014. Also included are a nine-year market chronology and an international section that offers price histories, tradeweighted dollar information, and export volumes by species and destination from 2009-2014. The Big Book is $269.95, the Yearbook $59.95 from www.randomlengths.com.
38
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Building-Products.com
■ Perfect for deck beams and columns, ■ 2400Fb-300Fv-1.8E ■ Stock widths of 2 7/16”, 3 1/2” and raised floor construction, coastal (Highest strength available) 5 1/4” widths at IJC and lumber construction, boardwalks and pier/ ■ Meets FEMA’s guidelines for “Flood depths (custom widths and depths beam foundations up to 52’) Resistant Materials” ■ Treated for above ground and ground ■ Backed by a 25-year warranty as contact applications strong as our products
Beach Construction
Floating Docks
309 N. Washington
Power Beam®
El Dorado, AR 71730 ©
Raised Floor
800-221-2326
Anthony Forest Products Company
Beach Home
www.anthonyforest.com
Anthony Forest Span Calculator
TALK Back We welcome your opinions on articles and the magazine in general. Please send your comments to letters@ building-products.com, Fax 714-486-2745, or BPD, 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. D200, Costa Mesa, Ca. 92626.
that he left behind. If so give a call. Best wishes in your new endeavors. Jim Lewman All-Coast Forest Products Cloverdale, Ca.
Arauco Expands in U.S.
What a great tribute to your family and the previous leaders of your magazines (“Big Shoes to Fill,” Feb., p. 6). It inspired me to keep working hard, knowing the rich heritage that has blessed me both personally and professionally. I look forward to reading your perspectives and insights in the months ahead—thank you!
Arauco North America, Atlanta, Ga., will expand capacity at its Bennettsville, S.C., particleboard and TFL (thermally fused laminate/melamine) plant, increasing production by 60 million sq. ft. by the fourth quarter. Arauco also purchased the assets of Suddekor’s paper treating business in Biscoe, N.C., providing the ability to impregnate decorative paper with melamine-based resin, which is used for the manufacture of TFL.
Mark Erickson Blue Book Services Carol Stream, Il.
Benjamin Obdyke Creates Good-Better-Best Systems
WELCOME TO THE NEW PUBLISHER
Congratulations once again, Patrick, on issue #1 for you. You’re going to do a fine job. I can see in a short time that you have a good sense of humor and will fit in great in our industry. I hope the keys I see on the second page are the keys to Alan’s wine cellar
To alleviate the stress of product specification when considering moisture management in the wall assembly, Benjamin Obdyke has developed three different wall systems, offering Basic, Moderate and Maximum levels of protection. Each system considers the best product for the conditions, based on
geography, budget and cladding concerns. “Ridding the wall assembly of water and water vapor before it can damage structural components is what moisture management is all about,” said marketing manager Tara Murray. “With the different wall protection systems, we are making it possible for specifiers to make educated decisions on products and solutions.” The Maximum protection system creates a large drainage and drying gap behind the cladding, ideal for use with wood, fiber cement, stone and stucco. It is comprised of products from Benjamin Obdyke’s Rainscreen line (Slicker HP, Slicker MAX, Home Slicker plus Typar, Slicker Classic). The Moderate system, highlighted by HydoGap drainable housewrap, provides a small gap for drainage performance, reducing the potential for moisture damage in the exterior wallwith all types of cladding. The Basic sytem, best for more arid climates, offers a durable, water-resistive barrier with exceptional water holdout, tear strength, and UV exposure. It includes FlatWrap HP housewrap, but does not provide an additional gap for drainage behind the cladding.
beautify
Clean contemporary lines. Simple to assemble ProBuilt™ railings from BW Creative www.bwcreativerailings.com
40
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Building-Products.com
MOVERS & Shakers Jim Moncrief has retired as president of Wood Protection LP, Houston, Tx. He is succeeded by Keith Brooks. D. Wayne Trousdale has been promoted to CEO of Cedar Creek, LLC, Oklahoma City, Ok. Tim Brand is new to sales at Warren Trask Co., Lakeville, Ma. Chris Dumas, ex-Ideas United, has been hired as marketing director for Everwood Treatment Co., Spanish Fort, Al. Ron Daniels, sales, Weyerhaeuser, Hot Springs, Ar., has retired after 45 years with the firm. Dave Sengupta has joined the sales team at Boro Sawmill & Timber Co., Wayne, N.J. Matt McClure is new to sales at Brown Wood Preserving, Louisville, Ky. Billy Ball was promoted to v.p. of store operations for 84 Lumber Co., Eighty Four, Pa. Mark Ingersoll succeeds Ball as v.p. of the Southeast Division (Va., N.C., S.C., Fl., Ga., Tn.). Phil Garuccio is now v.p. for the Central Division (Pa., W.V., Md., Oh.). New mgr. trainees are Benjamin Easley in Summerville, S.C.; Cory Gilbert, Westminster, Md.; and Jason Holcomb, Chattanooga, Tn. Russell Hutchins, ex-Mill Creek Lumber, is now a Tulsa, Ok.-based territory sales mgr. with Do it Best Corp., covering Oklahoma and north Texas.
Mickey Sexton has joined the sales team at Diamond Hill Plywood, Darlington, S.C., supporting Columbia, S.C., and surrounding markets. Bob Allen is new to sales in Greenville, S.C., serving Charlotte, N.C., and neighboring areas. Lace-Anne Wishon, ex-Lansing Building Products, is a new account mgr. at Snavely Forest Products, Wilmington, N.C. Mike Sims has been named senior v.p.-sales & marketing for Louisiana-Pacific Corp., Nashville, Tn., succeeding Rick Olszewski, who is retiring at the end of the month. Brad Southern is now executive v.p.-OSB, replacing Jeff Wagner, who will serve as executive v.p.-growth & innovation until he retires this summer. Neil Sherman is senior v.p.-EWP, succeeding Brian Luoma, who is now executive v.p.-siding. Pete Mersch, Allied Midwest Merchandisers, Sioux Falls, S.D., has retired after 45 years with the company. Mike Smith, ex-Marjam Supply, is now a dealer sales rep with Weyerhaeuser, Jacksonville, Fl. Jay Gurley has been promoted to store mgr. of McCoy’s Building Supply, Okmulgee, Ok. He succeeds Nicole Brosh, who is now store mgr. in Taylor, Tx. George Fishtorn II is now general mgr. of MacSouth Forest Products, Morganton, Ga.
Your Eastern & Midwest Redwood Specialist
REDWOOD DECKING THE NATURAL ALTERNATIVE
Full Range & Large Inventory Reman to Specific Patterns • Clear All Heart • Clear Mixed Grain • Construction Heart • Decking Pattern Stock • Bevel Siding • Beaded Ceiling We Ship by the Unit or by the Piece Family Owned & Operated for Over 60 Years
CHICAGO SUBURBAN LUMBER SALES 800-341-6485
7459 Franklin St., Forest Park, IL 60130
Fax: 708-771-7391 • Email: joe@chicagosuburbanlumber.com
Curtis Davis, ex-Milgard, has rejoined BlueLinx, as territory mgr. for north Texas. David Olexson Sr., ex-Wolf, is new to outside sales in Allentown, Pa. Mark Schield has been appointed president and Kevin Schield executive v.p. of Weather Shield Mfg., Medford, Wi., succeeding their father, Edward “Lee” Schield, who founded the company 60 years ago and will remain on the board of directors. Erik Wilke, ex-Fastenal, is now Greenville, S.C., territory mgr. for Wurth Wood Group. Matt Lefeaux is new to outside sales with Picou Builders Supply, Gonzales, La. Rosalie J. Bell has been appointed v.p. and general counsel for Pittsburgh Corning Corp., Pittsburgh, Pa. Michael Richard, ex-American Builders Supply, is now door shop mgr. at Allied Door & Hardware, Cocoa, Fl. Tony Rowan is a new millwork estimator at Hines Supply, Kirkland, Il. Derek Henrey is new to BW Creative Railing Systems, Maple Ridge, B.C., as chief financial officer. Gary Rogers, transportation mgr., Raven Logistics, Keego Harbor, Mi., has retired after 45 years in the business. Matthew F. Moore has been promoted to president and CEO at Kabelin Hardware, La Porte, In. He succeeds Diana Kabelin Corley, who is now v.p. and chief financial officer. V.p. Betsy Kabelin Parkison has added the title of chief information officer. Margaret Smith is now controller; Kim Peffley, retail operations mgr.; Colleen Collins, inventory & information mgr.; and Bill Bartholomew, rental, service & facility mgr. Tom Robertson, ex-Parex USA, is now business unit mgr. for the Atlas Wall CI division of Atlas Roofing Corp., Atlanta, Ga. M.J. “Mutt” Lewis, retired owner of Duncan Builders Supply, Duncan, Ok., was presented the local Chamber of Commerce’s first Industry Lifetime Achievement Award. Lou Tennant is now overseeing the troops at Mungus-Fungus Forest Products, Climax, Nv., according to co-owners Hugh Mungus and Freddy Fungus.
www.chicagosuburbanlumber.com
42
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Building-Products.com
Combilift Doubling Capacity
Combilift Ltd. will invest $50 million over the next two years to build a new plant in Ireland, enabling the forklift manufacturer to double capacity over the next five years. Combilift recently purchased 100 acres to build the new 430,000-sq ft. complex, which will include a dedicated research-and-development building, adjoining administrational offices, and a plant more than double the size of its present manufacturing facilities.
GAF Headquarters Move Brings Operations Together
GAF, North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, has relocated its corporate headquarters from Wayne, N.J., to Parsippany, N.J. The 128-year-old company had spent over 40 years in Wayne, with its 500 headquarters employees working from 11 buildings spread across a sprawling 99-acre campus. The new location is a single 330,000-sq. ft., state-of-the-art facility that can house all operations on three floors. GAF has made a significant investment in upgrading the new building, using its own energy-efficient TPO roofing for the roof. The refurbished building brings the company’s departments and functions together under one roof to foster even greater collaboration and teamwork, while improving the company’s overall operating efficiency.
Targeting Western Red Cedar (Continued from page 9)
right down to the dealer locator. As such, WRCLA has created a host of retail tools to facilitate sales. Service affiliate members have access to tools and materials that can be tailored to their specific needs such as dedicated Real Cedar content on member sites, access to instructional information and videos to help consumers specify and grade WRC, a Real Cedar retail app, access to Real Green: a section of realcedar.com that promotes WRC’s green aspects, and access to the WRCLA online video library of 70+ FAQ and “how-to” videos. All in all, they’re proactive steps to grow western red cedar sales in a business where it’s no longer business as usual. Building-Products.com
Call It The Fun Side of Cedar. Who says siding has to be all about straight lines and uniform color? Specialty profiles of Western Red Cedar siding such as Haida Skirl add personality and individuality to your home. And that’s something no cement or plastic siding can do. Western Red Cedar gives you natural durability, long lasting street appeal and surprisingly little maintenance. Which leaves more time for the fun things in life. Make the right choice for your business, your customers and your environment. Western Red Cedar offers dependable performance, unmatched beauty and superior environmental credentials to cement siding and other man-made products. The choice of discerning builders and consumers alike, Western Red Cedar adds warmth, character and value to projects and significant returns to your business.
1.866.778.9096 www.realcedar.com
To learn more about Haida Skirl or to place an order, contact us at 604-437-3434, toll free 1-866-553-9663 or info@haidaforest.com
www.haidaforest.com
March 2015
Building Products Digest
43
NEW Products
Face-Mount Hanger
Lighten Up the Deck
MoistureShield’s deck lights line includes options for energy-efficient recessed lights, post lights, under rail lights, stair lights, and post cap lights. The deck line’s innovative lighting options are a great enhancement to any outdoor living experience and are as durable as they are attractive.
MOISTURESHIELD.COM (866) 729-2378
The THFI face-mount hanger by Mitek is designed to attach I-joists to wood headers, while requiring no joist nails. Its face-mount design combines the installation ease of a top-mount hanger with the installation flexibility of a face-mount hanger. Seat cleats lock the bottom flange of the I-joist to the hanger, eliminating the need for joist nails MITEK-US.COM (314) 434-1200
Energy-Saving Roofing Systems
Kemperol Reflect 2K FR by Kemper System America, Inc., is a cold, liquid-applied reinforced cool roofing system designed to improve building energy efficiency. The bright white surface helps reflect sunlight, dramatically reducing the impact of infrared rays that can tax building cooling systems. The system consists of 70% rapidly renewable resources, is fire rated for Class-A assemblies, and is odor-free and low VOC. KEMPERSYSTEM.NET (800) 541-5455
44
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Building-Products.com
Harmonizing Shakes
Designed to balance with nature’s palette, Stainnatural Shakes from Novik are made to customize the look of a home. The surface of the shake is impregnated with traditional wood stain, creating a semitransparent finish, and the proprietary surface treatment combined with realistic texture provides an authentic look of traditional cedar cladding. SUPERDECK.COM (800) 825-5382
Superior Spray Foam
JM Corbond Open-Cell and Open-Cell Appendix X spray polyurethane foams are recommended for walls, floors, crawl spaces and both unvented and vented attics and ceilings. The spray foam is a two-component, low-density, nonstructural insulation system. Its low-density nature allows for tremendous yield, while still affording air sealing of homes, offices and classrooms, resulting in better air quality and increased comfort for occupants.
JM.COM
(925) 560-9068
Quick/Easy Fastening
Simpson StrongTie’s new SDWH TIMBER-HEX HDG screw has a SawTooth point and oversized integral washer that makes for fast installations; no predrilling or separate washer are needed. The screw features ASTM A153 Class-C hot-dip galvanized coating suitable for coastal and marine environments. STRONGTIE.COM (800) 999-5099
Building-Products.com
Brushless Drywall Screw Guns
Dewalt’s brushless lithium ion drywall screw gun allows drywall carpenters to get more done without power cords. Powered with extreme runtime, the new tool is ideal for residential drywall hanging applications–driving screws into both wood and steel studs. DEWALT.COM (800) 433-9258 March 2015
Building Products Digest
45
America’s
1
#
Lattice
Powerful Toolboxes with Style
plus
Architectural
Deck Rail
Coolbox comes equipped a 20v rechargeable battery that can power electronic devices and small power tools. Without being plugged in, the Coolbox can power devices through its two USB ports for over 10 hours. It can power tools, such as sanders, for over 40 minutes using a built-in three-way splitter. Other built-in features include a retractable 12-ft. extension cord, three 110v/220v electrical outlets, marine-grade Bluetooth speaker, LED lighting, dual handles, wheels, tablet stand, clock, and double-sided, removable dry-erase board on the inside lid. COOLBOX.IO
and so much more! Earth-Toned Finishes
Contact us for more information
1-800-459-8718 WoodwayProducts.com
46
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Sherwin-Williams’ NEW KEM Aqua Earth Tones topcoat for exterior siding provides a blend of two tones that creates a multi-hued, natural look rather than a flat painted surface. The hue is designed for application on composite and fiber cement siding and trim and is available in 21 unique colors.
SHERWIN-WILLIAMS.COM (800) 474-3794
Building-Products.com
NORTHEAST EXPO Photos by BPD
NORTHEASTERN RETAIL Lumber Assn. recently hosted its annual expo at Boston’s John B. Hynes Memorial Convention Center. [1] Robert Smith, Ed Acker, Chris Pete. [2] Kevin McSweeney, Karl Kiesman, Lucas Jesseman. [3] Marcus Warner, Jennifer Keyes, Mark Gagne. [4] Robin Gardner, Emily James. [5] Matt Caissie, Brett Shuler. [6] Rob Brodie, Alexa Schafer, Ronald Brodie. [7] John Atkinson, Phillip Kleiss. [8] Kevin Jaryi, Nick Clauson. [9] Peter Rodaway, Jim Building-Products.com
Topliss. [10] Robert Acierno. [11] Mike Yazwinski, Brent Wooster. [12] Dave Sengupta, Jack Sussek. [13] Jack Curry, Donna Kelly, Vincent Micale, Mark Johnson. [14] Andy Sinnott, Chris Burns, William Giguere. [15] Matt Duprey, Toby Sonder. [16] Bill O’Brien, Cathy O’BrienPorter, Jim O’Brien. [17] Charlie Maggs, Chris Robinson. [18] John Junod, Joe Siemion. (More photos on next two pages)
March 2015
Building Products Digest
47
NORTHEAST EXPO Photos by BPD
MORE NRLA (continued from previous page): [19] Bill Ingham, Gary Hayes, Kevin Smith. [20] Tim Hannen, Mike Staryak. [21] Bob Nicholson, Jeffrey Carpenter. [22] Mike McFarland, Dan Javitt, Dean Baumgartner. [23] Scott Rolufs, Kalvin Eden, John Cooper. [24] Dale Bartsch, John Fijalkowski. [25] Patrick Hanulak, John Snyder. [26] Patrick Adams, Jeff Easterling. [27] David Mitchell, Peter Morreale. [28] Kari Gaviria. [29] John Finnegan, Lawrence Boyts, Jerome Kolosky. [30] Wes
48
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Robichaud, Win Smith Jr. [31] Alan Oakes, Clint Darnell. [32] Jared Dailey, Troy Sinks, Ryan Breda. [33] Scott Boates. [34] Hans Ward, Scott Lewis. [35] David Gaudreau. [36] Brett Belair, Dave Williams, Ryan Black, Mark Hewitt. [37] Steve Sallah, Paul Dean. [38] Mike Donoghue. [39] Scott Rickle. (More photos on next page)
Building-Products.com
NORTHEAST EXPO Photos by BPD
NRLA EXPO (continued from previous two pages): [40] Scott Fleury, Mark Barba, Corey Bushnell. [41] Mark Lipsius, Ken Ziniti, Liz Ritz. [42] Chuck Gaede, Matt Hagerty. [43] C.W. St. John, Craig Dowdy. [44] Mark Ritz. [45] Ken Bernstein, Elizabeth Ryan, Tony Moscogiuri. [46] Jason
Building-Products.com
LaFountain, Matt Veroneau, Zane Swanepoel, Tom Livingston. [47] John Hornung. [48] Joel Adamson. [49] Jeff Manning, Scott Korde. [50] Craig Myers, Bob McSorley, John Smith, Bob Lemieux, Shiela Michaud. [51] Rick Palmer, Rich Protsko, Richard Paci.
March 2015
Building Products Digest
49
CAROLINAS BUYING SHOW Photos by BPD
BUILDING Material Suppliers Association held its first buying show since the merger of the Southern and Ohio associations Feb. 4-5 in Hickory, N.C. [1] Deborah Meek, Mark Nowotarski. [2] John Harwell, Penny Mastin. [3] Chris Yenrick. [4] Michael Bowers, Graham Thick. [5] Brent Richardson, Kelly Gordon, Scott Talbert, Cliff Carroll. [6] Larry Adams, Buford Arning, Harold Benfield. [7] Jim Kilpatrick, Ted Smith, Dennis Ramey, Jeff Weisner, Ron White, Phil Osborne, Shane Michael. [8] Keith
50
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Harris, Barry Flood. [9] Scott Chiccarello, Joe Allen. [10] Phil McCaul, Jeff Tice, Brian McCullen. [11] Norwood Morrison, David Anderson. [12] Harold Rush, Phil Gregory, Keith Pound. [13] Steve Harkins, Franklin Young, Mark Hobart, Don Gibson. [14] Mike Power, Mark Ryhanyen, Ron Long, Jeremy Johson, Donna Colvin, Steve Scott, Kurt Shuey, Mark Holloman, Tony Winstead, Chip Turner, David Plummer. [15] Michael Craft, Walter Smith. (More photos on next page) Building-Products.com
CAROLINAS BUYING SHOW Photos by BPD
AT BMSA (continued from previous page): [16] Mariam & Houston Crumpler. [17] John Ramsey, Troy Neas. [18] Chuck Casey, Brad Bedford. [19] Allison Almond, John Edwards. [20] Alan Thompson, Bill Phillips, Jim Trice, Jody Treadway. [21] George W. Miser, Lou Kurcsics, Rick Benton. [22] Phil Heck. [23] Steve Cheffy, Tim Rogers, Ted Cheffy, Dan Taylor, Bradley Huneycutt. [24] Michael Sullivan, Mike Gower. [25] June & Bryan Strickland, Jeff Womack. [26] Brent Richardson, Wayne Building-Products.com
Macemore, Will Barrett. [27] Bill Eure, Christian Lempeckski. [28] Roland Paiva, David Nelson, Ronnie Simpson, Kaye Leonard, Simon Clark, John Hogan. [29] Chap Kester, Steve Storer. [30] Andy Chatman, Matt Black, Steve Helderman, Brandon Eller, Alec Mecionis. [31] David Rumsey, Robert Beckham. [32] Rob Miller, Blaise Craft. [33] John Maiuri. [34] Scott Stanford. [35] Chris Rader, Dennis Sullivan. [36] Jonathon Meyers. [37] Jeff Bicknell. [38] Butch Blackmon. [39] Dave Dodson. March 2015
Building Products Digest
51
INTERNATIONAL BUILDERS’ SHOW Photos by BPD
INDUSTRY OPTIMISM was high as more than 65,000 attendees filled the Las Vegas Convention Center at NAHB’s annual International Builders’ Show on Jan. 20-22. [1] Joe Biss, Gary Hartman. [2] Patrick Adams, Erol Deren. [3] Scott Jarrett, Larry Boyts, Gary Kauffman. [4] Chuck Casey, Robert Loew. [5]
52
Building Products Digest
“The Genie,” Alan Oakes. [6] Joe Hanas, Matt Caissie, Bruno Lebel. [7] Dennis Coffey, Ralph Leyh, Kristin Zommer, Ken Logue. [8] Phil Lail, Brian Orchard, Bo Bryant. [9] Howard & Karen Rothstein, Len Kasperski. [10] Roderick Kabel, Adam Gangemi. [11] Rob Mitchell, Kalvin Eden. [12] Brett McCutcheon, Chad Giese. March 2015
[13] John Marshall, Ralph Bruno, Anne-Andree Morin. [14] Mike Booth, Amy Little. [15] Scott Nowatzki, Steven Gertner, Larry Crossley, Paul Gertner. [16] Alan Oakes, Tess Lindsey. [17] Kip McCleary, Joe Morin. (More IBS photos on next two pages) Building-Products.com
INTERNATIONAL BUILDERS’ SHOW Photos by BPD
ON THE FLOOR at IBS (continued from previous page): [18] Bill Ingham, Todd Davis, John Assman. [19] Mimi Peavy, Jessica Pearson, Rachelle Shendow, Maureen Murray. [20] Cindy Mottern, Ken Madden. [21] Michael & Gina Baldwin. [22] Duffy McCarthy, Del Leutbecher. [23] Tim
Hummel, Brendan Hexberg. [24] Heather Crunchie. [25] Craig Young, Randy Terrill, Dan Beaty. [26] Bob Sloper. [27] Jason Boeschen, Brianne Papa, Dave Buzzie. (More IBS photos on next page)
Finally, a composite decking that doesn't look like plastic! Introducing Naturale composite decking by NewTechWood. Same UltraShield technology you trust, with the natural look you want, in a wide variety of unique colors.
Visit www.newtechwood.com or call us at 866-728-5273 for more information
Building-Products.com
March 2015
Building Products Digest
53
INTERNATIONAL BUILDERS’ SHOW Photos by BPD
JAM-PACKED IBS (continued from previous two pages): [28] Edie Kello, Douglas Mancosh, Bryce Miller, Shannon Huneycutt. [29] Bryan Crennell. [30] Brett Shuler, Tom von Moos. [31] Randy Robins, Greg Bates. [32] Beau Buente, Dolores Simon. [33] Jim Seeger, Joe
54
Building Products Digest
Holt, Marc Maniaci. [34] Vicky Ryan, Chris Wischmann, Trina Turcan. [35] Karen Rolhstein, Len Kasperski, Kim Pohl. [36] Jacek Romanski, Tom Jaroszek. [37] Paul Phillips, Craig Matter, Flo Sanchez. [38] Mike Couch, Jason Brown, Mike Wright. [39] Kevin Demarq, March 2015
Rick Altizio, Mark Challinor. [40] Ken Goodnough, Melissa Morinelli, Joel Adamson. [41] Mark Aromi, Doug Morse, Andrew Hampe. [42] Mike McFarland, Scott Morovitz. [43] Bryce Miller, Greg Reed.
Building-Products.com
ASSOCIATION Update Building Material Suppliers Association saw attendance up 25% at its recent buying show in Hickory, N.C. (see photos, p. 50-51). During the show, Stier Supply, Irmo, S.C., was honored as 2015 Dealer of the Year; ECMD, North Wilkesboro, N.C., as Supplier of the Year; and Huttig Building Products, Greenville, S.C., Best of Show Booth Award winner. Lumbermen’s Association of Texas and Louisiana is hosting its annual convention, themed “Expect Great Things,” April 8-9 at the Moody Gardens Resort Hotel, Galveston, Tx. Northwestern Lumber Association honored Alexander Lumber Co., Owatonna, Mn., as Lumber Dealer of the Year during its recent expo. Wisconsin Lumber Dealer Association voted Drexel Building Supply, Campbellsport, Wi., its 2015 Dealer of the Year. Upcoming events include the Nebraska Lumber Dealers Conven-
Building-Products.com
tion March 10-11 in Kearney, Ne.; business management course March 17 in Burnsville, Mn.; legacy roundtable March 18-20 in Rochester, Mn.; social media seminar March 27 in St. Cloud, Mn.; and arena football meet April 11 at the Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines, Ia. Florida Building Material Association will stage a leadership and communication seminar March 26 in Mt. Dora, Fl., immediately followed by a board of directors meeting. That same evening the association will host a Texas Hold ’em poker tournament/dinner. National Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association is hosting its annual spring meeting & legislative conference March 23-25 at the Renaissance Dupont Circle Hotel, Washington, D.C. Attendees can hear keynote speeches from political leaders and will have ample opportunities to learn about new issues to address with Congress after preparations during the
March 2015
issue briefings and the Washington Briefing Breakfast. Veterans of the “Hill Visit” and those new to Washington will also be able to interact with lawmakers during Capitol Hill and federal agency visits, and during the Legislative Reception on Capitol Hill. It is followed by the Joint Networking Reception. American Wood Protection Association’s 111th annual meeting will be April 12-14 at Omni Grove Park Inn, Ashville, N.C. The meeting will consist of a suppliers showcase and various recreational events, such as the AWPA 2015 Hackers Classic golf tournament at the Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Club and the 2015 Pickler’s Prance 5K Fun Run/Walk. Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association will conduct its annual meeting March 25-27 at the Omni, Nashville, Tn. Kentucky Forest Industries Association is hosting its 50th annual meeting March 25-27 at the Embassy Suites, Lexington, Ky.
Building Products Digest
55
IN Memoriam Edward Hines, 79, longtime chairman and CEO of Edward Hines Lumber Co., Buffalo Grove, Il., died Feb. 5. After graduating from Williams College in 1957, he joined the family business, working his way up to president and CEO when his father retired in 1979. In 1985, he bought out a portion of the company’s assets, including its Chicago-area retail yards and a plant in St. Charles, Il., and moving the headquarters from downtown Chicago to Itasca. He retired as CEO in 2007 and as chairman in 2013. US LBM bought the chain in 2010. Noah A. Troyer, 87, founder of Holmes Lumber, Millersburg, Oh., died Feb. 4. In 1952, he purchased a door manufacturer, Holmes Door, and gradually expanded it into a full-service, multi-location building material company. He sold the business to Carter
Lumber in 2004. His son, Dan Troyer, is the current president of Holmes. William “Bill” Stewart, 61, owner and founding partner of Rush Creek Lumber, Owatonna, Mn., died Jan. 16. He began his lumber career in the mid-1970s, working as a wholesaler for his brother, George. He and Jim Steinlicht launched Rush Creek in 1982. Milton Howard Nanney, 73, longtime manager of Tupelo Lumber Co., Tupelo, Ms., died Feb. 12. He retired from Tupelo Lumber after 24 years, following 17 years at Buster McElroy Lumber Co., Baldwyn, Ms. Hope Ruth Parnell Scherr, 86, longtime Dallas, Tx., area lumber broker, died Dec. 16. She worked for Moses & Klein, Northeast Texas Wholesale, and DW Distribution.
CLASSIFIED Marketplace Rates: $1.20 per word (25 word min.). Phone number counts as 1 word, address as 6. Centered copy/headline, $9 per line. Border, $9. Private box, $15. Column inch rate: $55 if art furnished “cameraready” (advertiser sets type), $65 if we set type. Questions? Call (714) 486-2735. Send ad to Fax 714-486-2745 or david@ building-products.com. Checks payable to 526 Media Group. Deadline: 18th of previous month.
PRODUCTS FOR SALE SHAVER WOOD PRODUCTS Southern Yellow Pine Timber Production
6x6, 6x8, 8x8, 10x10, 12x12
TRI-STATE LUMBER CO.
Reload Services & Storage Available Norfolk Southern Mainline Served Easy Access to I-40 & I-77 Company-Owned Truck Fleet
Tel. (662) 862-2125 • Fax 662-862-4900 email jgibson@tristatelumber.net
(704) 278-9291 • Fax (704) 278-9304 Cleveland, N.C. email steve.twiford@gmail.com or shavers.reload@gmail.com
WANTED TO BUY
WANTED TO BUY
PRODUCTS FOR SALE Your Southern Yellow Pine Timber Connection Specializing in 6x6, 6x8, 8x8, 10x10
Eugene “Gene” Richard Westhoven, 74, CEO and founder of Okolona Lumber Co., Defiance Building Center, and Midwest Wood Trim, Napoleon, Oh., died Feb. 14. He started Okolona Lumber in 1973, opened the home center in 1980, and added the millwork shop in 1983. James Robert Frazier, 87, owner of F&S Building Supply, Oxford, N.C., died Feb. 7. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he cofounded the company in 1975. Jack Edward Owen Sr., 89, former general manager of Barnes & Jones Lumber Co., Austin, Tx., died Jan. 30. After serving as a Merchant Marine during World War II, he joined his uncle, Emmett Jones, working for a chain of small lumberyards in Texas. He joined Barnes & Jones in 1953. John Cefaratti, 99, longtime manager of Tarolli Lumber Co., Solvay, N.Y., died Feb. 14. A U.S. Army veteran of World War II, he spent seven years in construction before joining Tarolli Lumber in 1958, running the yard until he retired in 1993 at age 77. Ian Tyler Hogan, 25, co-manager of 84 Lumber, Dayton, Oh., died of cancer Feb. 2 in Indianapolis, In. Charles “Charlie” Pavlish, 100, owner of Pavlish Lumber Co., Chatfield, Mn., died Feb. 10. Wiley Clark Smithson, 84, coowner of Woodbury Builders Supply, Woodbury, Tn., died Feb. 9 after an extended illness. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Leslie A. “Les” Kealy, 61, contractor salesman at Curtis Lumber, Ballston Spa, N.Y., died Feb. 9 in Bethlehem, Pa. A native of Ireland, he spent 16 years with Curtis Lumber. Mary E. Snell, 85, former Topeka, Ks., lumberwoman, died Feb. 10. She worked at Whelan Lumber Co. before heading Sutherland Lumber’s electrical department until her retirement.
56
Building Products Digest
March 2015
Building-Products.com
DATE Book Listings are often submitted months in advance. Always verify dates and locations with sponsor before making plans to attend. IDEAS Mid-Atlantic LBM Trade Show – March 11, Valley Forge Casino, King of Prussia, Pa.; www.lbmideas.org. Greenprints – March 11-12, Atlanta, Ga.; www.greenprints.org. Construction Suppliers Assn. – March 11-13, convention & expo, Golden Nugget Biloxi, Ms.; (678) 674-1860; www. gocsa.com. National Wooden Pallet & Container Assn. – March 11-13, leadership conference, Az.; (703) 519-6104; www.palletcentral.com. Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Assn. – March 11-13, spring meeting & expo, New Orleans, La.; www.slma.org. Ace Hardware Corp. – March 18-19, show, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nv.; (888) 408-6742; www.acehardware.com.
Lumbermen’s Association of Texas & Louisiana – April 8-9, annual convention, Moody Gardens Resort & Convention Center, Galveston, Tx.; (800) 749-5862; www.lat.org. Wallace Hardware – April 8-10, spring market, Pigeon Forge, Tn.; (800) 776-0976; www.wallacehardware.com. Florida Building Material Assn. – April 11, golf tournament, Orange Lake Country Club, Kissimmee, Fl.; www.fbma.org. Peak Auctioneering – April 11, LBM auction, Indianapolis, In.; (800) 245-9690; www.peakauction.com. American Wood Protection Assn. – April 12-14, annual meeting, Omni Grove Park Inn, Ashville, N.C.; www.awpa.com. New Jersey Building Materials Dealers Assn. – April 16, meeting, Rams Head Inn, Galloway, N.J.; www.nrla.org. Kentucky Building Materials Assn. – April 16-17, convention & expo, Belterra Casino Resort, Florence, In.; www.kbma.net.
International Wood Products Assn. – March 18-20, annual convention, Las Vegas, Nv.; (703) 820-6696; www.iwpawood.org. JLC Live Show – March 18-21, Providence, R.I.; www.jlclive.com. Blish-Mize Co. – March 20-21, spring market, Overland Convention Center, Overland Park, Ks.; (800) 995-0525; www.blishmize.com. Peak Auctioneering – March 21, Kane County Fairgrounds, St. Charles, Il.; (800) 245-9690; www.peakauction.com. North American Wholesale Lumber Association – March 22-24, Leadership Summit, The Western Kierland, Scottsdale, Al.; (800) 527-8258; www.nawla.org. HDW Inc. – March 23-25, dealer market, Jackson Convention Center, Jackson, Ms.; (800) 256-8527; www.hdwinc.com. National Lumber & Building Material Dealers Assn. – March 2325, legislative conference, Washington, D.C.; www.dealer.org. Window & Door Manufacturers Assn. – March 23-25, legislative conference, Arlington, Va.; (800) 223-2301; www.wdma.com. Southern Cypress Manufacturers Assn. – March 25, annual meeting, Nashville, Tn.; (412) 244-0440; www.cypressinfo.org. ENAP Inc. – March 25-27, annual meeting & show, Gaylord Palms, Orlando, Fl.; (800) 456-4300; www.enap.com. Hardwood Manufacturers Assn. – March 25-27, conference & expo, Nashville, Tn.; (412) 244-0440; www.hmamembers.org. Structural Insulated Panel Assn. – March 30-April 1, annual meeting, Tucson, Az.; (253) 858-7472.; www.sips.org. Indiana Lumber & Builders’ Supply Assn. – April 1-2, blueprint reading/material take-off course, Indianapolis, In.; www.ilbsa.org. Kentucky Forest Industries Association – April 2-4, annual meeting, Brown Hotel, Louisville, Ky.; (502) 695-3979; www.kfia.org. Peak Auctioneering – April 4, LBM auction, Gibraltar Trade Center N, Detroit, Mi.; (800) 245-9690; www.peakauction.com.
Redwood • Western Red Cedar Siding • Pattern Stock • Specialties
Alaskan Yellow • Port Orford • Incense Cedar Decking • Siding • Timbers
Huge Inventory of Redwood & Cedar Available Year-Round Whether you want a truckload, car, container or special order, we are here to meet your needs. Family owned and operated for three generations and counting. Our founder, Ross Ensworth, is turning 95 this year.
RFP Lumber Co., Inc. Give us a call at 530-538-4400 and let’s talk lumber
4801 Feather River Blvd., #29A, Oroville, CA 95965 • www.RFPLumber.com Building-Products.com
March 2015
Building Products Digest
57
ADVERTISERS Index
IDEA File
Accoya [www.accoya.com] .............................................................8
Helping Hands
AGS Stainless Inc. [www.agsstainless.com/mmag] ...................45 Anthony Forest Products [www.anthonyforest.com] .................39 AZEK [www.azek.com].....................................................................3 B.W. Creative Railing Systems [bwcreativerailings.com] ..........40 Chicago Suburban Lumber [chicagosurburbanlumber.com] ....42 Crumpler Plastic Pipe [www.cpp-pipe.com] ................................57
Offering a helping hand to local communities
is not uncommon for hardware stores these days, but Virginia-based True Value CK Home & Hardware, Bealeton, Va., has decided to offer a special kind of helping hand, one that caters to students with special needs. In return, the family-owned hardware store has discovered designing specific programs that tailor to these needs can also be efficient for business. Since 2011, CK Home & Hardware has been working with Fauquier public school system’s Employment Training Program, providing opportunities for special needs students to get job experience. The hardware store and nearby Liberty High School have worked closely with students who are approaching graduation and in need of job experience. At the store, students will typically work restocking inventory, bagging items and assist with register clerks. “The kids are great. They work hard and are happy to be at our store,” said store president and co-owner Helen Wyckoff. “We’ve had the program for almost five years and it’s made a presence in this small community.” Wyckoff noted the partnership with the local high school has been a benefit to both the students and the business. “We are helping these students get experience in a real-world setting and that’s the most important thing, but we’ve also learned that it benefits the store. We save some money and the students are such a pleasure to be around.” One student was even hired as a regular employee after impressing Wyckoff with his work performance. In addition to saving money on payroll, Wyckoff also noted that having the students around helps during rush hours, and when the store is surprisingly busy and understaffed. Since its grand opening five years ago, the team at CK Home & Hardware has made it their goal to build relationships with local residents. Wyckoff, who was recognized with the Lee District Citizen of the Year award for her support of the community this past January, believes making a difference in people’s lives provides job satisfaction. Along with their partnership with the Fauquier public school system, the hardware store also hosts fundraisers for Operation First Response and local veterans’ groups, has volunteers at the Crockett Park Children’s Day event and hosts DIY lessons, including duct tape classes, kids’ clubs and ladies’ nights, when participants learn step-by-step how to tackle household objects.
58
Building Products Digest
March 2015
CT Darnell Construction [www.ct-darnell.com]...........................28 DeckWise [www.deckwise.com] .....................................................4 Diacon Technologies [www.diacon.com]...............................13, 15 Diamond Pier [www.diamondpier.com]........................................36 Do it Best Corp. [www.independentsdoitbest.com]......................5 Durgin and Crowell [www.durginandcrowell.com] .....................17 Empire Lumber [www.empirelumber.com] ....................................7 Everwood Treatment Co. [www.everwoodtreatment.com].........27 Fasco America [www.fascoamerica.com]....................................38 GRK Fasteners [www.grkfasteners.com].....................................21 Haida Forest Products [www.haidaforest.com]...........................43 Kop-Coat [www.kop-coat.com] .....................................................25 Lumbermens Association of Texas [www.lat.org] ......................11 Maze Nails [www.mazenails.com].................................................35 NewTechWood [www.newtechwood.com]...................................53 North American Wholesale Lumber Assn. [www.nawla.org] .....29 Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Assn. [www.nelma.org]...55 Novik [www.novik.com] ........................................................Cover II PrimeSource Building Products [www.primesourcebp.com] ....44 Redwood Empire [www.redwoodemp.com].................................19 RFP Lumber Co. [www.rfplumber.com] .......................................57 Richardson Timbers [www.richardsontimbers.com] ..................34 Roseburg Forest Products [www.roseburg.com].............Cover IV Seaboard International Forest Products [www.sifp.com]...........49 Simpson Strong-Tie [www.strongtie.com]..............................30-31 Snavely Forest Products [www.snavelyforest.com] ...................37 Swanson Group Sales Co. [swansongroupinc.com] ........Cover III Viance [www.treatedwood.com] ...........................................Cover I Warren Trask Co. [www.wtrask.com] ...........................................14 Western Forest Products [www.westernforest.com] .................26 Weyerhaeuser [www.weyerhaeuser.com]....................................41 Woodway Products [www.woodwayproducts.com] ...................46 Building-Products.com
BPD
151 Kalmus Dr. Ste. D200 Costa Mesa, CA 92626-5959
Building Products Digest
Change Service Requested
Randy Sturgill Coquille Plywood Plant Manager 31 years