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Building Products Digest

FEBRUARY 2022

THE VOICE OF THE LBM SUPPLY CHAIN — SINCE 1982

SPRING DECKING ISSUE • STRUCTURAL WOOD PANELS • NEW INDUSTRY REGULATIONS

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CONTENTS

February 2022 Volume 41 n Number 2

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Special Report Spring Decking Issue

Read all about the latest

trends and materials in

Departments

Feature Story

Decking Innovates to Meet the Wants and Whims of 2022

outdoor living

Margin Builders

Fill Out Deck Packages with Under-Deck Drainage Systems

BPD

Building Products Digest

FEBRUARY 2022

THE VOICE OF THE LBM SUPPLY CHAIN — SINCE 1982

SPRING DECKING ISSUE • STRUCTURAL WOOD PANELS • NEW INDUSTRY REGULATIONS

First Person

Margin Builders

Expert Insights into Outdoor Living Brazilian Import Helps Fill Void Hardwood Decking

for Lonza® Wood Protection is now

PROTECTION

INSECTICIDE

Industry Trends

Management Tips

Gnarly New Decking Gets Traction

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The Mark of Quality Wood Panels

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Across the Board

24 Olsen on Sales 26 Lumber 411 36 Movers & Shakers 40 New Products 46 Classified Marketplace 46 In Memoriam 46 TalkBack 48 Centennial FlashBack 47 DateBook 50 Advertisers Index

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BUILDING PRODUCTS DIGEST is published monthly at 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. E200, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, (714) 486-2735, 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®2022 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. Opinions expressed are those of the authors or persons quoted and not necessarily those of 526 Media Group, Inc. Articles in this magazine are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or business management advice

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ACROSS the Board By Patrick Adams

New Normals

he only thing constant is change, they say. And, while most people exclaim that they love new things, new challenges, and learning, most seem happy to be stuck in their routine. I am the poster child of this paradox. I don’t fear change in the least and new challenges feel like a normal day to me. I get bored easily and can’t sit still… ever. But, I wake up at the same time, could probably eat the same thing every day for every meal, and if my wife would let me get away with it, I would have a closet filled with the same pants, same shirts, and same shoes to wear every day. I do this because when I find something that works, why would I change it? I value things like stability and confidence in consistency. However, it seems that the world has changed and the new normal is that nothing remains the same. Some might argue this is just a “phase” and I suppose if you look through a long enough window of time, humans walking the Earth is a phase too. This feels different. It was almost two years ago to the day that COVID entered our lives and the world changed. As I look today, those early actions to keep us “safe” seem logical and restrained compared to the random chaos we deal with today. And, while this precedence has been set, I can’t confidently believe that our “normal” lives will return. But it doesn’t stop there. Everything from lumber prices at record highs, to lows, back to record highs, to “happy” long-term employees suddenly jumping ship for their “dream job” because everyone in the world is hiring today creates an environment of instability. I believe it is leadership’s job to create this stability and a calming vision of the path forward. However, it seems that leadership today benefits more by adding fuel to the chaos. Whether it is California enacting drought restrictions while having a record seasonal snowpack, or Russia staging to invade a neighboring country, the new normal seems to be about constant and uncertain change. The byproduct of this is felt in society; everyone is a bit more stressed, less patient, and plans for the future less. I noticed a long time ago that the quality of products being produced tells me that we’ve become a disposable society. In the sea of Amazon deliveries that litter our porch, there isn’t a product that would last a year, much less a lifetime. While cars are built better now, we keep them for months instead of years. Forever homes are now flipped and family traditions are acted out on Facetime. If nothing of value is ever created, then what are we left with? There is, however, opportunity in times of constant change. Who would have thought that empires would be

created simply by impulse entrepreneurs who figured out ways to produce things like masks, gloves and sanitizer that have become today’s staple of everyday life. Will we be celebrating their 100-year anniversary of serving their clients like we are this year? Probably not, but perhaps those days are gone too along with the shift to impulse and disposable lifestyles? Maybe this also is part of the new normal. Think about being in school and being asked to write a business plan to create a business that will be around in 100 years. It’s hard for me to envision what our lives will be like in 20 years! But, in this new world of constant extremes, I remind myself that not everything has to be black or white. We hold true to our values, while also experimenting with trying new business initiatives. I don’t dwell on the crisis when employees leave, but have celebrated the fresh ideas and talent of new hires that will help us on this changing journey. And perhaps, I might even try something new for breakfast a day or two! More than anything, it is the consistency of the people and their values in this industry that we serve that gives me comfort. Through all of this, all it takes is a meeting or phone call to remind me of the true value in our lives in the relationships that we have forged with family, friends and those we serve. While we must adapt and improvise to this changing world, we must also remember that the values of our foundation are what have gotten us this far and there’s only so much we can change before we lose ourselves. As we get ready for spring, please keep your eye out for the many new things we’re launching in celebration of our 100 years of service!

Patrick S. Adams Publisher/President padams@526mediagroup.com

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

Building-Products.com

FEATURE Story By David Koenig

DECKORATORS’ new stair treads were a response to demands for enhanced traction for improved safety, especially near water.

Decking innovates to meet the wants and whims of 2022

hit, demand for alternate decking materials surged so high that manufacturers appeared more focused on cranking out sufficient volume and expanding capacity for current products, rather than looking for new avenues to expand into. But now that they have begun adjusting to the new normal, suppliers are again preparing to roll out exciting new products, all designed to solve existing shortcomings and desires among deck builders and homeowners. hen the pandemic

Faster, Easier Installation

Installation time is always an issue, so Trex and AZEK/TimberTech are both rolling out new hidden fastener tools to make application of their decking products quicker and easier.

Debuting this month, the EDGELoc hidden fastener system is easy to use, reduces installation time for TimberTech EDGE grooved deck boards, and results in a smooth, fastener-free finished surface. Similarly, the new Trex Universal Fastener Installation Tool was designed to help cut decking installation time in half. The tool also properly activates fasteners and streamlines the tightening process to help finish projects with greater accuracy and efficiency so builders can move onto what’s next. As for railings, buyers are gravitating toward easy-to-install solutions, and companies including Envision have responded with railing systems offered in complete kits. “These features make it easier for dealers to sell, as well, helping to ensure railings remain at the fore-

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

front of the decking conversation,” added Chase Moritz, director of marketing for Envision.

More Bang for the Buck

MoistureShield positioned its latest innovation, Meridian decking, to incorporate as many premium features as possible at a moderate price point. According to VP of sales Matthew Bruce, “There was a market gap for a mid-priced capped composite that addresses natural looks, water contact, heat surface temps, and other issues all in one product. It’s also WUI approved for the West.”

Greater Protection

Ask any contractor where a deck is most likely to fail, and chances are they’ll tell you at the ledger board. The makers of Trex Protect Joist & Building-Products.com

Beam Tape and the Trex RainEscape deck drainage system have created a new butyl-based tape reinforced with aluminum specifically engineered to flash ledger boards and rims to protect against water damage and deterioration. According to Leslie Adkins, Trex VP of marketing, “It can also be used to seal a deck’s perimeter—including first, last and rim joists—to create a moisture-proof barrier for any horizontal wood surface areas that are flat blocked. Its larger size (11” wide by 5.5”) helps cover more area more quickly and its double-release liner makes for a smooth, accurate installation.”

Increased Privacy

Among the hottest trends in outdoor living for 2022 is privacy. With this in mind, the makers of Trex Pergola created Trex Privacy, a new series of stylish

Building-Products.com

THE RICH COLORS and bold highlights of Envision Outdoor Living Products’ Distinction Collection of composite decking emulate the textures and natural color variations found in exotic wood.

February 2022 n Building Products Digest n

and low-maintenance aluminum privacy wall panels. Offered in both permanent and moveable options, the decorative panels not only enhance privacy around decks, patios and pools, but can be strategically integrated into spatial plans to define various functional areas within any outdoor living space.

A Smarter Deck

Fiberon has been looking to extend the smart home trend to the outdoors. “The concept of the smart home, with technology and features connected via smart home devices, is a common trend in the building products industry. However, decking and railing brands have not introduced smart lighting features for outdoor living spaces yet,” said Donna Contat, senior director of product management for Fiberon. “We enhanced our lighting product line with the new smart home outlet, a device exclusive to Fiberon lighting, that allows homeowners to control their deck and railing lights using their smartphone or connected smart home device.” Higher tech also continues to be improved when it comes to planning and purchasing decking. Most manufacturers offer deck design software or apps, with the newest entry being the Fiberon Discovery App. “The shopper journey has moved beyond just being digital. The ability to visualize a product before stepping foot in a physical location is becoming increasingly important to homeowners,” said Eric Dotson, director of ecommerce and data management for Fiberon. “The Fiberon Discovery app helps homeowners visualize Fiberon decking or cladding on an existing surface using augmented reality, allowing them to easily switch board colors and direction to find the perfect look.”

Greater Personalization

“When Deckorators began planning our new products for 2022 we wanted to include components that give our contractors opportunities to personalize their projects, while also making a space as functional and safe as possible,” said Jase DeBoer, senior marketing manager for outdoor living. “This sentiment applies to our newly launched 11-1/4” Voyage Step Treads. Featuring enhanced traction and available in colors Tundra and Khaya, these treads make it easier for contractors to create an outdoor space with the design and colors that their clients want while also providing key safety features, especially near water.” Also new from Deckorators for 2022

FIBERON’S (top) new smart home adapter allows homeowners to manage their outdoor lighting using a smartphone, Amazon Alexa, or Google Home device. (Bottom) The augmented reality app, Fiberon Discovery, allows you to reimagine the surface of your existing deck, exterior walls and other surfaces.

are low-voltage recessed lighting components. Deck and riser lights that are easy-to-install and Bluetooth compatible make it easier than ever to increase visibility and create outdoor ambiance. Secondary handrails—now available in bronze—are a new addition to the Deckorators product line and exemplify a seamless combination of style and function for safety and livability. AZEK is adding two on-trend composite deck-board colors. “As demand for outdoor living spaces increases, homeowners continue to request design-forward decks that reflect their personal style,” said AZEK CEO Jesse Singh. “These new product extensions enable us to build on our commitment to deliver beautiful, sustainable, and low maintenance decking—while providing more options to meet the latest home-design trends.” Its Landmark Collection, which mimics the look of reclaimed wood, will add French White Oak, a unique, lighttone board with subtly blended shades of natural oak, warm gray, and tannin.

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

Softer tones have become a sought-after trend in indoor flooring, and French White Oak seamlessly extends those trends to the outdoor living space. And its TimberTech EDGE Prime+ Collection now includes Dark Cocoa, a warm brown shade, flecked with varied hues that give natural color dimension. Along the same lines, customizable metal railing systems, such as Fortress Building Products’ recently introduced Al¹³ HOME and Fe², deliver proven performance to support deck functions, while giving play to today’s in-demand modern farmhouse aesthetic. The overall goal is to make deck builders’ lives easier and make their clients’ living spaces feel complete. “At the top of their home improvement wish list, homeowners are commissioning hardworking outdoor spaces that extend the functions of everyday living beyond the walls of their home,” explained Toby Bostwick, Fortress’ VP of product & brand. “Decks should draw the comfort and aesthetic of a home’s interior to the outdoors.” Building-Products.com

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MARGIN Builders By Dave Kile

Fill out deck packages with under-deck drainage

ometimes it’s what

clients don’t see that they appreciate most. An under-deck drainage system is a perfect example. While not something homeowners typically know to ask for, these systems add tremendous value to any deck project and practically sell themselves once their benefits have been explained.

Advantages of Adding an UnderDeck Drainage System

Using a network of troughs and downspouts, a deck drainage system captures and diverts water away from a deck to protect the substructure from moisture and to a create dry, usable space beneath an elevated deck.

These systems act like shingles on a roof to shield the wooden foundation from moisture penetration and damage. Without protection, an average wood substructure can begin to deteriorate after just 10 years, while a deck drainage system can extend the life of a deck and its framing for decades. Once protected, the area below the deck surface can be used like any room inside a house. Homeowners can add electricity, water and gas lines, as well as furniture, lighting, ceiling fans and entertainment components to create additional outdoor living space. This area also is ideal for use as bonus storage space for stowing everything from lawn and garden equipment,

DECK DRAINAGE systems are easy to install for the builder, but expand margins for both contractor and dealer. (Photos by Trex)

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

pool supplies and off-season patio furniture to bicycles, boats and ATVs. With a drainage system in place, the possibilities are limitless for how the space below a deck can be used.

Under-Deck Drainage Systems Options & Differences

While there are numerous options for under-deck drainage systems with various configurations, components and price points, these systems largely fall into one of two categories—those that are installed beneath the substructure framing, and those that are applied above the joists. Below-the-joist systems consist of metal or vinyl panels retrofitted to the underside of deck’s joists with the panels sloping to a gutter installed at the deck beam for drainage. Advocates of this type of system will tout that installation does not require the dismantling of an existing deck. However, these systems are best installed by specialized contractors so dismantling shouldn’t ever be an issue. A disadvantage of systems that install below the joists is that they leave wood and metal exposed to the elements and more susceptible to water damage and corrosion. This type of system can also trap moisture in the core supports of the substructure, which can accelerate rotting and deterioration. For optimal protection and aesthetics, most contractors prefer drainage systems that install above the joists between the substructure and the deck boards. This method uses poly or rubberized membranes that drape over the joists and down into each joist bay from above the substructure, ensuring that Building-Products.com

the entire substructure is shielded from moisture penetration. Furthermore, the membrane material (vs. metal, vinyl or PVC) accommodates a broader range of ceiling options for homeowners seeking a finished aesthetic. In both cases, deck drainage systems are relatively simple to install and require minimal tools. Trex RainEscape, for instance, is an above-the-joist system that includes just five SKUs and can be installed using just a stapler, utility knife and caulk. Each trough is clearly labeled with staple markers to expedite the process, which takes no more than a few hours to complete, depending on the size of the deck.

An Upgrade to Drive Customer Satisfaction, Revenue and Referrals

An under-deck drainage system is an upgrade that allows builders to drive increase profit potential without having to hire additional employees. Assuming a margin of 20% on a 325-sq. ft. deck,

OVER-THE-JOIST drainage systems that install between the substructure and the deck boards, such as Trex RainEscape, offer the added advantage of protecting the entire structure from moisture penetration.

a builder can potentially earn a few thousand dollars more by adding an under-deck drainage system to a project. Over the course of a year, these minor increases can have a major impact on the bottom line. The best part is an under-deck drainage system is an upgrade that builders can feel confident selling. While it may increase the cost of a deck project, most homeowners feel it is well worth the investment—especially after the first rainfall when they experience firsthand the value of having a dry outdoor living space they can enjoy even in inclement weather. Additionally, protecting the structural integrity of their deck’s substructure affords homeowners peace of mind and satisfaction that can lead to referrals and more business. – Dave Kile is founder of and national sales manager for Trex RainEscape (www. trexrainescape.com). Building-Products.com

February 2022 n Building Products Digest n

FIRST Person By Jase DeBoer

FOR A DRAMATIC accent that truly defines a space, the Dark Slate Picture Frame Board in a new 3-1/2” width is ideal for cocktail rails, accent picture frames, and unique inlays. (Photo by Deckorators)

Outdoor living insights for 2022

2020 was the year of the home, 2021 was the year of the deck. Increasingly, homeowners are opting to create their own oasis within their property’s lines, a trend that shows no signs of slowing down in 2022. Trends in decking and outdoor living show a renewed vision for the possibilities of outdoor spaces, as homeowners are willing to take more design risks and invest in personalized features. Deckorators has always been about helping homeowners maximize their outdoor living space—and make it their very own. Our promise to dealers, contractors, and homeowners means more now than ever before. We’re keeping that promise in 2022 with extraordinary new products that take the enjoyment of personalizing an outdoor space to a new level. Trends in bolder design choices and additional, personalized features including wet bars, pools, spas, and cusf

tomized storage solutions increasingly reflect homeowners’ desires to cultivate an outdoor space that brings the feel of vacation and resort-like amenities to their backyards. We are also seeing more clients opting for bold accents with contrasting railing choices or defined perimeters using options like the picture frame board in Dark Slate. Customers want the best of both worlds when it comes to decks and accessories—beauty and performance. In addition, they desire products that provide both function and seamless, trend-forward transitions between interior design and outdoor living. These are key considerations when working with customers to expand your offerings. Of course, they want a design and aesthetic that looks great, but they also want certain problems addressed, including storage, organization, and safety. Recent years have seen homeown-

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

ers spending more time than ever within property lines. Just as the inside of our homes have taken on new purposes, people are looking to their outdoor spaces to take on multiple purposes as well. Building on the already-strong demand for personalized outdoor living spaces, it will be important for dealers to offer contractors and homeowners innovative products for these elevated outdoor spaces. There has never been greater demand for outdoor living projects. Despite proactive forecasts and investments in production and supply, it’s important to provide honest, open communication regarding potential challenges. We continue to invest in production efficiencies, increased capacity, and meeting the demand of our valued customers. – Jase DeBoer is the senior marketing manager of outdoor living at Deckorators (www.deckorators.com). Building-Products.com

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MARGIN Builders By Steve Getsiv

SPECIES like angelim pedra are among the options for deck builders and suppliers looking for substitutes for less available hardwoods. (Photos by Nova USA Wood Products)

Brazilian import helps fill void for hardwood decking

upply and labor shortages coupled with soaring lumber prices are now everyday staples of the current building environment. Although many of these issues have become more manageable, problems still exist for a strong remodeling market that is expected to achieve “high-single digit gains” per a new report from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University. This includes the continued surge in decking, which was bolstered even further in recent years

by homeowners looking for new sources of comfort and solace while stranded at home during the pandemic. As a result, the calming effects of real wood products have become even more popular for individuals and families looking to make the spaces around them feel warmer, cozier and safer. This is just another reason why beautiful tropical hardwoods like ipé are now among the “preferred” choices of decking for people who simply just love the lustrous look and feel of exotic woods. The problem is that the market for these products has changed greatly since the beginning of 2020. Already in short supply, ipé prices rose dramatically along with international concerns over harvesting and sustainability. Consequently, deck builders nationwide are now scrambling to find certified alternatives that deliver the same durable, aesthetically beautiful and long-term results. Native to Brazil, angelim pedra is one such economical option produced within the Amazon, the world’s most heterogeneous tropical forest. In fact, the forest management techniques used to harvest angelim pedra are based on selective, sustainable logging practices specifically designed to ensure the integrity and beauty of the standing forest, while generating ongoing income for the local people. Also known as para angelim, rocky deck, and mani, angelim pedra is named for the unique mineral spots found in the wood. The word “pedra” actually

translates to “rock” in Portuguese and in addition to these dense spots, which diminish over time, its soft brown color and light orange and tan highlights make it ideal for a wide range of outdoor furniture and woodworking projects. If left untreated, it will age into an elegant silver-gray patina that seamlessly blends into most exterior motifs. Dense and durable, angelim pedra is also extremely resistant to fungi and wood boring insects. The result is a highly workable tropical wood that will last for decades with minimal shrinkage if properly treated and maintained. Another advantage is that the hardwood readily absorbs stains and oils despite its high density. Through the use of highly-penetrative oil finishes containing strong UV protection, users enamored with the exotic hardwood’s tan-brown coloring will be able to retain the decking’s luxurious, rich finish throughout the deck’s entire lifespan. So, possibilities do exist for builders and suppliers willing to explore new options in a market filled with demand but lacking the access to previously-available tropical hardwoods. That’s the value of species like angelim pedra. Cost-effective, durable and stable, it’s just one of many viable choices currently available to those looking to fulfill the ongoing needs of customers without delays and at an affordable price. – Steve Getsiv is the president and CEO of Nova USA Wood Products, Forest Grove, Or. (www.novausawood.com).

INDUSTRY Trends By David Koenig

STATE-OF-THE-ART decking MonaDeck descended from RampX, an ultra-durable surface material invented for nationally televised extreme sporting events in the late 1990s.

Gnarly new decking begins to get traction

ooking for decking that can take a pounding yet also offers elite traction, even in wet weather? What if there were a material that was as sturdy and slip-resistant as a pro skateboard ramp? Well, that’s the thinking of Joel Klippert, the inventor of MonaDeck, a next generation, ceramic-coated composite decking that traces its roots to BMX and skateboarding events of the late 1990s. “The technology was originally developed for the extreme sports in-

BOB BURNQUIST, the most decorated skateboarder of all time, on a corkscrew ramp made of RampX, the forerunner of MonaDeck.

dustry,” Klippert says. “I was asked to make a product that would be totally weatherproof and still have good traction while being wet.” He bonded a recycled wood/bamboo fiber with a bio-based resin system made from cashew nut oil, creating the underlying technology of RampX. It proved itself sustainable, durable, weatherproof and ready for any punishment the pro athletes of the world could lay down. A few years later, he expanded to the cladding market, developing an outer layer that gave the product a pattern and then building in UV protection. Decking seemed to be the next natural step, but—pricewise at least—he was ahead of his time. “We made a line of decorative deck products for one very big client, but the cost was crazy high so we set the product on the shelf for the past decade,” Klippert says. “Five years ago, I decided to revisit (decking) as the market has changed a lot. We also had a new ceramic additive that would make the product extremely abrasion resistant.

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

All the plastic products and even wood for that matter have gotten much more expensive. Our goal was to have it retail at $20 a sq. ft. or less, and we are at a MSRP of $16 and that isn’t crazy high anymore.” After two years of testing in the field, Monarch Technologies formally introduced MonaDeck at last fall’s DeckExpo, featuring 1/2” thickness, 12” width, and a unique texture that simulates “100-year-old bandsaw-cut wood.” It’s one of a few textures currently offered, with a new stone pattern set to launch next month. The super-hard ceramic overlay simulates the look and feel of wood, while providing high scratch resistance and a high-res realistic finish. The extra-wide planks are another selling feature, particularly among women. “The 12” wide planks are very different looking than all other decking,” Klippert explains. “It appeals very much to women who want a more contemporary and rustic look and feel.” In addition to decking, the product can also be used as cladding, interior Building-Products.com

flooring, concrete overlays, fencing, privacy screens, signage and cabinetry. Currently, most of the product is sold factory-direct from the Pacific Northwest, but Monarch is actively searching for new two-step, one-step, and lumberyard distribution options. Klippert is confident the industry will flip over MonaDeck. “It’s like Tesla bringing out the first super car. They wanted to show you an electric car that could compete against anything. We are bringing out the Tesla of decking.”

MONADECK’S unique ceramic surface is as eye-catching as it is tough.

Building-Products.com

FEATURES include wood look and feel, stability, scratch resistance, fast installation, Class A fire resistance, and ADA compliance for non-slip.

February 2022 n Building Products Digest n

MANAGEMENT Tips By Drake Joslin

The mark of quality for wood structural panels

hen ordering or specifying wood structural panels, it is important to receive the right panel for the application, and equally important that the panel is manufactured with the required quality. Wood structural panels trademarked by APA meet both criteria, based on qualification tests in compliance with Product Standards PS 1 for plywood and PS 2 for plywood and oriented strand board (OSB), as well as ongoing quality assurance tests on every production period with a robust quality assurance system. In Canada, APA panels are trademarked to similar standards, which include CSA O121 for Douglas fir plywood, CSA O151 for Canadian softwood plywood and CSA O325 for OSB and plywood.

with foreign wood species of a low density or with adhesives of unknown durability, or they may be qualified by testing to a foreign standard that is not developed and intended for North American markets. Furthermore, the in-plant quality program, and especially the independent, third-party quality assurance system of imported panels, may be untested and unproven in North America. In the past, APA has been asked to evaluate imported panels available in local markets by testing them with requirements specified in PS 1 and PS 2. In some cases, the panels were found to be lacking in stiffness and bond quality and emitting formaldehyde in excess of certified products conforming to North American standards.

APA’s Quality Assurance System

Formaldehyde Regulations & Structural Wood Products

North American Panels vs. Imported Panels

– Drake Joslin is a product support specialist and the Help Desk lead for APA – The Engineered Wood Association’s Technical Services Department (www.apawood.org). An architecture graduate of the University of Colorado – College of Environmental Design, he has been with APA for over five years following a 30-year career in the design and specification of wood-framed buildings.

APA’s quality assurance system includes review of mill quality procedures, independent third-party audits of the mill quality program and regular independent testing that verifies the quality and performance of wood structural panels. Also, APA’s quality assurance system has proactive steps to ensure any product quality issues are addressed promptly and properly in the manufacturing plant. APA-certified products are authorized to bear a trademark clearly identifying the appropriate standard and product application. The qualification and quality assurance system apply evaluation methods that are appropriate for many end-use applications, including span ratings for roof, wall and floor construction, and for a wide variety of other uses, such as in concrete forming, upholstered furniture frames, recreational vehicles and other manufactured products where materials with high strength-to-weight ratios, durable exterior adhesives and known mechanical properties are important. Occasionally, imported wood structural panels are sold in North America. Those imported panels may be manufactured

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

Since North American structural wood products produced under the PS 1 and PS 2 standards are designed for construction applications governed by building codes, they are manufactured only with moisture-resistant adhesives that meet Exterior or Exposure 1 bond classifications. These adhesives, such as phenol formaldehyde and diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), are chemically reacted into stable bonds during pressing. The final products have such low formaldehyde emission levels that they easily meet or are exempt from the world’s leading formaldehyde emission standards and regulations. Specifying APA-trademarked panels manufactured by trusted North American manufacturers is an assurance of getting the right product for the right application at a recognized quality level.

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OLSEN on Sales By James Olsen

Pushy

I do with any group is the “Salespeople Are.” We make a T with two columns beneath the phrase “Salespeople Are:” and we title the lefthand column “Negatives.” I then ask the class to shout out the negatives about salespeople. “Pushy” is number one 95% of the time. The reason I do this exercise is because there is a lot of negative prejudice against salespeople. Many of my students have been raised by parents who don’t like salespeople. They imbue this negative perception into their children, who I end up having to teach sales to. I tell my students, “We do this exercise first because it is my number one problem when coaching salespeople. If you are ashamed of being a salesperson, you will never be great at it and as good as you might become, it will happen slower because you will pull punches at every step of the sales process.” Can you imagine trying to teach someone how to box who doesn’t want to hurt their opponent? How good of a boxer can anyone be if they pull their punches, while their opponent is doing everything they can to knock them out? he first exercise

Have an Opinion

A student asked me, “How do we create a sense of urgency without being pushy?” I told him, “Just sell the truth. The truth will set you free, but it will not sell itself.” Great salespeople sell the truth. They know why their proposal or product is a good deal for their customers and are willing to sell those reasons. Many of my students are afraid to be wrong; “What if I tell the customer this is a good deal and then the market comes off?” There is difference between being wrong and lying. If we work for a reputable company with sales professionals around us, we are going to be right about the market 85% of the time. That brings value to our customers. No one will be right on the market 100% of the time so we don’t need to be afraid of being wrong. What we can’t do is lie. A great salesperson once told me, “James, they get mad, but they get over it.” I sold one of my best customers 20 trucks of #2 common boards that proceeded to drop—$200/ MBF in two weeks. “You top-ticked, Jimmy,” he said in a chilly voice. “I’ll never buy from you again.” I asked my wife, “Do you like this house?” She said, “Yes, why?” “Because we might not be living here much longer!” It took a month, but he bought from me again.

Promote Don’t Push

Most sellers present product and let the customer decide:

Quotron: “Good morning, Susan. I’ve got a truck of 2x4 #3 14s I can get into at $750/MBF. Whaddya think?” This call is definitely not pushy, but it isn’t a sales call either.

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Master Seller: “Good morning, Susan. I’ve got five trucks of 2x4 #3 14s. They are a great deal for us because: (1) The market is tight on 14s. (2) I’ve got a smokin’ price on these and (3) I can work with you on the shipment. How many can you use?” The second approach is superior because it tells the customer why what we are presenting is a good deal, not just what it is. There is no push. Most customers then ask, Susan: “What’s the price?” Master Seller: “That’s the best part. We can land these for $750/MBF, which is a great deal. How many can we use?” There is no push. The Master Seller asks for the order twice while the amateur asks zero.

Overcoming Objections

We can overcome objections once or twice before we start to move into the “pushy” realm. The formula: Customer: “I’m going to hold off and wait for this market to come back.” Master Seller: “I understand wanting to wait, but based on the inventory we have and what I am seeing in the market, I think it would be better if we pick up a couple trucks for insurance. Let’s put on a couple.” The Master Seller understands there will be objections. They anticipate them and are ready with well thought out reasons that in spite of the objections, their deal is still worth buying. They are prepared, not pushy. James Olsen Reality Sales Training (503) 544-3572 james@realitysalestraining.com Building-Products.com

REDWOOD

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Redwood is always available in abundance of options. So stock the shelves! Unlike mass-produced and inferior products, Redwood is strong, reliable and possesses many qualities not found in artificial products. They maintain temperatures that are comfortable in all climates. Redwood Empire stocks several grades and sizing options of Redwood.

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THE FIRST STAIN

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YellaWood® brand pressure treated products are treated with preservatives (the “Preservatives”) and preservative methods, and technologies of unrelated third parties. For details regarding the Preservatives, methods, and technologies used by Great Southern Wood Preserving, Incorporated, see www.yellawood. com/preservative or write us at P.O. Box 610, Abbeville, AL 36310. Ask dealer for warranty details. For warranty or for important handling and other information concerning our products including the appropriate Safety Data Sheet (SDS), please visit us at www.yellawood.com/warranties or write us at P.O. Box 610, Abbeville, AL 36310. YellaWood and the yellow tag are federally registered trademarks of Great Southern Wood Preserving, Incorporated. All other marks are trademarks of their respective owners and are used with their permission.

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LUMBER 411

A Special Series from Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association

By Kim Drew

How NELMA’s jobs program supports lumber retailers

s the skilled worker shortage continues to wreak havoc across all elements of the construction industry, the Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association (NELMA) is doing something about it. The NELMA Jobs in the Lumber Industry webpage, found at www. nelma.org/jobs and launched in 2018, works to draw qualified 18- to 23-year-olds to the lumber industry, in addition to individuals already in the workforce that seek to change their profession. How does this help lumber retailers? Fully staffed mills and manufacturers are able to run more efficiently and create a culture of success and growth that is passed along to customers—retailers—through the buying process. Read on for more about this innovative jobs outreach program, one of the very first in the lumber industry.

NELMA Offers a Choice

In late 2017, members of the Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association (NELMA) approached their association with a proposal: as jobs became harder to fill, the members asked their association to come up with a plan to combine both their candidate-searching efforts and their hiring needs into a comprehensive educational outreach program. “It was time to take the bull by the horns and create an interactive, two-way jobs program to benefit both our members, and high school graduates investigating jobs straight out of high school,” said Jeff Easterling, president of NELMA. “We felt as if we had one shot to get this right, so we spent extra time researching how to get to the right group of young people, and how to grab—and keep!— their attention.”

The Jobs Program Online

At the core of the program is the website. Users will find background information on program details, a current job listings board, an overview of the industry highlighted by sustainability/renewable resource information, and a careers video library, developed by NELMA administra-

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tive assistant Ken Sweet. “This generation is all about learning by video, so we decided to develop a series of short videos describing the many jobs available in the lumber industry,” said Sweet. “This way our target audience isn’t just reading about a job, they’re actually seeing where that job will take place. It’s a whole new level of education.” Once the website was launched, Sweet distributed an informational program poster to the guidance counselor at every single high school in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Featuring a unique scratch-and-sniff element, the poster encourages students to consider what their next job might smell like. By the end of 2022, additional recipients of the poster will include high schools in the Great Lakes area of northern Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Following that, the association will begin an outreach effort aimed at trade schools and two-year community colleges throughout NELMA’s geographic footprint (Maine and New England over to the Great Lakes). The entire effort has been supported through social media postings on NELMA channels. Posts are designed and written to bring home the point that this isn’t your grandfather’s lumber mill; gone are the days of archaic, old-school, technology-lacking mills; in their place students are finding high-tech career opportunities with good pay, good benefits, and upward mobility.

What’s Next

Describing the poster as a “lightning rod” designed to get student attention, Easterling shares that results were immediate. Mill tours and one-on-one guidance counselor meetings followed, and the program was off and running. Flash forward to three years down the road, and while temporarily delayed by the pandemic, NELMA mills are still posting jobs and still hiring. “NELMA members are fully invested in the program and rely on postings to bring in quality applications,” said Easterling. “This is creating a true partnership between both sides. And while challenges still remain, each job posting, each interview conducted is a giant step toward educating the next generation about the variety of jobs within the lumber industry. Healthy, well-staffed mills are the cornerstone for a healthy lumber industry, to include our retailer friends. And that’s truly what it’s all about.”

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TRANSFORMING Teams By Paige McAllister

What to watch for in 2022: Regulatory/compliance an agreement to share information, training, and enforcement more freely thereby increasing the possibility of cross-agency investigations and added penalties. Action: Stay up to date with rulings and changes that will impact all workplaces. Review your policies, procedures, and actions to ensure all employees can exercise their rights. Ensure compliance with wage payment practices and employee/independent contractor classifications.

rends and legislative agendas indicate that employers will face some new challenges in 2022 while battling old ones. When possible, it is critical that businesses prepare for these changes in advance of implementation. Below are some major regulatory and compliance trends we are watching as well as some actions we recommend taking throughout the year.

Minimum Wage Increases: Twenty-five states and Washington, D.C., are increasing their minimum wage in 2022, with 21 of the increases going into effect by January 1. Three states will also see corresponding increases to the exempt salary thresholds. Action: Review wages paid to all employees ensuring they meet minimum wage standards and possibly adjusting others who are close to minimum wage to prevent wage compression. National Labor Relations Act Initiatives: The prolabor majority of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) are reviewing several workplace rules to give employees more protections. Some initiatives include defending protected, concerted activity, including using company networks and systems, redefining independent contractors, prohibiting and penalizing wage theft, and enforcing compliant handbook and policy language. Additionally, the Department of Labor and NLRB signed

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

Discrimination Protections: State, county, and city governments will continue to pass laws expanding protections for certain characteristics such as pregnancy and childbirth, natural hair and protective hair styles, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, COVID vaccination status, homelessness, or immigration status. Laws are also being strengthened to prohibit retaliation against any employee who makes a valid discrimination or harassment claim, files a discrimination or harassment complaint with a federal or state agency, or participates in any related investigation whether internal or by legal authorities. Action: Know all the federal, state, and local laws which apply to your workplace and employees. Ensure there is no adverse employment action taken based on protected characteristics. Investigate any complaints. Draft and enforce policies prohibiting discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, and retaliation. Marijuana Legalization: Thirty-seven states and Washington, D.C., have legalized marijuana in some form while nine others have decriminalized it or legalized CBD oil. Initiatives to expand the legalization of medical and recreational marijuana use are expected. The federal government is also looking into options to legalize marijuana in some form. Action: Understand the marijuana laws in your state and how they impact your policies and procedures, especially for drug testing and disciplinary action. Restrictive Covenants: Federal and state governments are reviewing legislative options to limit non-disclosure, confidentiality, non-compete, and non-solicitation agreements so employees have more latitude and protections, Building-Products.com

Q. With the CDC changing the quarantine period for someone who contracts COVID-19, can I require an employee to return after five days A.

Maybe. You must consider several factors before establishing a return date. To meet CDC guidelines, the COVID-positive person has to be asymptomatic or have symptoms that have improved and no fever without the aid of medicine. If they still have symptoms beyond the mild lingering cough or congestion, they should not return until they are feeling better. Another thing to consider is state health department guidelines. Some states have not yet updated their requirements to the shorter period so they may require the 10- or 14-day isolation period. Always consult the current guidance from the CDC, state health departments, and documentation from a healthcare provider when timing an employee’s return to the workplace.

especially if little consideration is given. Action: Have any restrictive covenants regularly reviewed by legal counsel that is familiar with local employment law. Independent Contractors: In addition to the NLRB reviewing independent contractor definitions, the DOL will join some states in refining the tests and criteria for independent contractors to ensure workers are properly classified. Action: Review all current independent contractor relationships and ensure they meet the test under state law as well as DOL and IRS regulations. Paid Leave: President Biden and Congress will continue to push for paid family leave and paid sick time on a federal level. In the meantime, several states have passed new paid or unpaid sick or leave laws while others are expanding leave laws currently in place. Some local governments are passing sick leave laws which apply to their city or county. Action: Understand what sick and/or leave laws apply

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to your employees based on where they work. Draft procedures so all requests are handled consistently.

COVID-19-related Regulations and Mandates:

OSHA Vaccine/Testing Mandate: The U.S. Supreme Court recently granted emergency relief to stay implementation of OSHA’s Emergency Temporary Standard. The court’s ruling puts implementation and enforcement of the rule “on hold” pending further review by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, and, conceivably, a return visit to the Supreme Court itself. Quarantining: The CDC has changed their guidance for those who are exposed to or who are asymptomatic or have recovered from mild symptoms after contracting COVID19. However, some states have yet to update their guidance so there may be conflicting requirements. Action: Check both CDC and state health department requirements on quarantining when dealing with employees who are exposed or test positive. Privacy and Data Security: The protection of consumer and employee information will remain a priority for several states. We have already seen many states pass strict laws regarding how businesses and employers gather and protect information as well as actions that need to be taken if there is a breach threatening the security of that information. Action: Consult data security experts to ensure all the sensitive and confidential information you gather on customers and employees is protected. Take required actions if there is a breach. Other regulatory changes: In addition to all of the above, we expect federal, state, and local government to build on recent legislative changes including pay equity, mandatory benefits, wage theft, ban-the-box, safety, and use of artificial intelligence. Paige McAllister, SPHR Affinity HR Group contact@affinityhrgroup.com

February 2022 n Building Products Digest n

Builders FirstSource Acquires National Lumber

Builders FirstSource, Dallas, Tx., has acquired National Lumber, the largest independent building materials supplier in New England. National Lumber operates 19 facilities and employs more than 700 people across Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island, with a diverse mix of products and end markets. National Lumber sales were expected to be approximately $440 million in 2021. “We are thrilled to further expand our capabilities into New England by welcoming National Lumber to the Builders FirstSource family,” said Dave Flitman, president and CEO of Builders FirstSource. “The company’s diverse building materials and service offerings, which include prefabricated components to millwork and their strong R&R mix, will add even more depth

to the value-added solutions Builders FirstSource customers rely on..” “Following 87 years as a family-owned company, we are excited about our future with BFS, the biggest, and more importantly, the best supplier of building materials to professionals in the country,” said Steven Kaitz, National Lumber co-CEO. “My sister, Margie, and I have been stewards for over 45 years of a business built by our grandfather, dad, uncle and now our dedicated employees, who will get to share in our continued success.” National Lumber president Manny Pina, along with other key members of senior leadership, will continue their tenures managing local operations following the acquisition. With the acquisition, BFS will operate 580 locations in 42 states.

Cameron Ashley Adding On in Alabama

Nelson, manager for BMD Ohio Valley. “This will enable us to enhance our general and specialty lines including leading brands in decking, siding, and trim as well as add some new products to our portfolio. We also plan to expand our engineered wood products and commodity lumber business to serve our customers in Greater Cincinnati, Louisville, Lexington, Indianapolis, Dayton and all points in between.”

Cameron Ashley Building Products has opened a new distribution center in Tuscaloosa, Al. Its second DC in Alabama, the facility will provide FAST delivery of roofing, drywall, insulation, siding and related accessories to Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, Montgomery and Huntsville.

Boise Cascade Expands in Minnesota, Kentucky

Boise Cascade Co. is expanding its Building Materials Distribution (BMD) operations in Minnesota and northern Kentucky. The BMD Minneapolis branch will be adding 13 contiguous acres to the existing property in Lakeville, Mn. “One of the most significant impacts will be our ability to expand our engineered wood products (EWP) line as well as increase our commodity offering with the addition of pine boards, premium grade lumber/studs, and other industrial products,” said Dave Stone, branch manager. “The additional acreage will also help us minimize the usage of offsite storage areas, significantly increase our rail capacity, and improve overall operational efficiencies.” The BMD Cincinnati branch will move into a new 200,000-sq. ft. warehouse in Walton, Ky. The new location will work in tandem with an existing yard in Erlanger, Ky. Late last year, the company also announced a new distribution center to be built in Marion, Oh. “We are very excited to move into these new facilities in 2022,” said Mark

R/W Buys into Midwest

R/W Specialties, Denver, Co., has purchased the assets of America Building Products, Jefferson City, Mo., and merged its distribution operations into its own. Founded in 1965, R/W is a wholesale distributor of specialty building products serving a diversified customer base located throughout the Mountain West and operations in Colorado, Utah, Arizona and Wyoming. America Building Products distributes interior and exterior doors, windows, cabinets, hardware and millwork to customers in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Illinois and Arkansas. With a 30+ year track record of success, ABP provides its customers with superior technology and quality, including stateof-the-art pre hung door capabilities to meet its customers’ exact specifications. According to Jen Brooks, chief operating officer of ABP, “R/W is the ideal partner for ABP as we continue to bring our capabilities across the United States. Our shared resources and combined operations will allow us to better serve our customers’ needs.”

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

DEALER Briefs Fulcrum Building Group, Navarre, Fl., is adding a lumberyard in Parker, Fl. A temporary facility will open this month, with the permanent building to be ready by June 1. Goldsboro Builders Supply, Goldsboro, N.C., acquired Mebane Lumber, Mebane, N.C., as its 7th yard. Taylor’s Do it Center opened store #12 on Dec. 3 in Glouchester Point, Va. Thrifty Building Supply, Collierville, Tn., was purchased by VP Richard Cooper from his former partner, president and CEO Mark Evans, who has retired after 31 years with the firm his father started in 1985. Hopkins Lumber, Memphis, Tn., was acquired by a private investor. Crescent Ace Hardware, Clifton Park, N.Y., has been acquired by Judd Robinson, William Swartz III, and Rob McDonnell. Rocky’s Ace Hardware has purchased Karp’s Ace Hardware, Stamford, Ct., from the Fogel family. Fusek’s True Value Hardware, Indianapolis, In., added a larger, 10,000-sq. ft. store in town.

Ace Hardware is opening a branch in west Owensboro, Ky. Merchants True Value, Union City, Mi., has been acquired by Jeff and Robin Kodet from Bob Merchant, who is retiring. Sneed’s Ace Hardware, Oxford, Ms., is now Shaw Ace Hardware. Sycamore Ace Hardware, Terre Haute, In., was opened Jan. 31 by Steve Guernsey, who also owns a sixyear-old Ace in Brazil, In. E.C. Barton & Co. is opening a Home Outlet store next month in Albany, Ga.

White Cap opened a new 45,000sq. ft. facility in Fort Myers, Fl. R.P. Lumber, Edwardsville, Il., celebrated the chain’s 45th anniversary on Jan. 17. Building-Products.com

Versatex Presents Awards

Versatex Building Products honored Atlantic Forest Products, Baltimore, Md., as Distributor of the Year during its recent 17th annual Versatexcellence awards presentation. Other winners included Fabricator of the Year Clingerman Doors, Clearville, Pa.; National Stocking Dealer of the Year Special Wood of Wilmington, Castle Hayne, N.C.; and Regional Stocking Dealers of the Year Special Wood of Wilmington; 84 Lumber, Cape May, N.J.; Chatham Kent Metal Sales, Chatham, Ont.; D. Baker & Son Lumber Co., Grand Haven, Mi.; High Brothers Lumber Co., Camdenton, Mo.; Island Lumber & Hardware, Holmes Beach, Fl.; Paneling Sales, Gordonville, Pa.; T.W. Perry, Gaithersburg, Md.; and Williams Lumber & Home Centers, Rhinebeck, N.Y. Individual winners were Distributor Sales Rep of the Year Mark Kelly, U.S. Lumber, Claysburg, Pa., and Versatex team members Matt Cullen (Regional/Territory Sales Manager of the Year), Ricardo Torres (Area Sales Manager of the Year), and Tyler Freeman and Jeff Pokryska (Market Development Specialists of the Year). Versatex sales VP Rick Kapres, who hosted the Dec. 17 virtual event, praised those honored for their “contributions to phenomenal industry growth during a challenging period in the history we all share.”

CertainTeed Ramps Up Plant

CertainTeed has started up production at its newest North American production site and first STONEfaçade plant—a state-of-the-art facility in Quakertown, Pa., that increases its capacity of the product by ten-fold. STONEfaçade is a stone veneer system, made with concrete, that can be easily installed by any siding contractor.

Deckorators Acquires Rail Maker

UFP Industries subsidiary Decorators has paid $25 million for Ultra Aluminum Manufacturing, Inc., Howell, Mi.-based manufacturer of aluminum fencing, gates, and railing. The deal adds aluminum fencing to Deckorators’ current lineup of vinyl and wood fencing. Ultra president Russ Springborn and VP of business development Dave Stewart will continue in leadership roles.

SUPPLIER Briefs Scotch Plywood is targeting a late spring start-up for its new mill in Waynesboro, Ms., which replaces a facility destroyed by fire a year earlie . LP Building Solutions will construct a new LP SmartSide ExpertFinish prefinishing facility on 75 acres in Bath, N.Y., targeting a third quarter 2023 completion. Cooper Marine & Timberlands, Mobile, Al., has acquired Seago Lumber Co., McComb, Ms. JB Mill & Fabricating, New Castle, Pa., purchased Rorabaugh Lumber Co., Burnside, Pa., from brothers Bob, Daniel, Tucker and Roger Rorabaugh, who are all retiring.

Richards Building Supply, Homer Glen, Il., agreed to purchase SIBCO Building Products, Dayton, Oh. L&W Supply acquired the assets of Holmes Drywall Supply, with branches in Kansas City and Lee’s Summit, Mo., and Topeka, Ks.

ABC Supply added a location in New Braunfels, Tx., managed by Jeremiah Jarboe. DecksDirect , Minneapolis, Mn., was acquired by Harbour Group. AZEK has acquired aluminum pergola manufacturer StruXure Outdoor, Dahlonega, Ga. Canfor is investing in 50 new sorter top sling bay assemblies at its planer mill in Graham, N.C. Boise Cascade Millwork is now partnering with Simpson Door Co. in its Atlanta, Ga., distribution location.

Boise Cascade’s Dallas, Houston, Memphis and Tulsa DCs have handled Simpson Doors since 2020.

Do it Best switched its spring market to virtual-only Feb. 11-25, instead of in-person in Indianapolis, In. Southeastern Metals Manufacturing Co . is

relocating to a new space in north Jacksonville, Fl.

Beacon has acquired Cookeville, Tn.

Crabtree Siding & Supply,

LOTS Group has acquired Bellwether Forest Products, Camden, S.C. Oldcastle APG bought the recycling and mulch operations of South Jersey Agriculture Products, Elmer, N.J. Kennebec Lumber, Solon, Me., won a Maine Employers’ Mutual Insurance Award for Excellence in Injury Management. 34

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

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February 2022 n Building Products Digest n

MOVERS & Shakers

Hammers, who retired executive the expansion centered across the western United as States. VP Lowe’s of sales & purchasing. Also Over the past 18 months, opened more than a dozen retiring are facilities, including in Riverside, Ca. Charlie Epperson, VP Jeff Kauffman has been promoted Melinda Garcia, previously with labor relations & benefits; Over the coming yearofand a half, the chain is expectedJeff to to mgr. of Curtis Lumber, Schroon Builders FirstSource, has joined Thomas, of distribution corporate open 50 more cross-dock terminals,director seven bulk Lake, N.Y. the sales force at Tague Lumber, group fulfillment sales; andcenters. Everett Clark, centers, and four e-commerce It recently Philadelphia, Pa. John Davey has been named general senior VP of credit. Jodi Fontana inked deals for new distribution space in California, Arizona mgr. of Dealer Supply & Lumber now senior VP–accounting and Dan Johnson, ex-Interstate + Lakelandamong is and Washington, other states. Co., Greenville, S.C. Tom Coast Liddy,e-commerce VP–safety Lumber, is a new outside salesLowe’s controller; In October, opened a West & fleet services; Todd Nowels, account mgr. with Roe Brothers, fulfillment center in Mira Loma, Ca., said to improve two-day David Stauter has been promoted VP–dealer sales Southeast; Lisa Florida, N.Y. deliveries. to presidentISand CEO ofonTibbetts CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY a new TFL plant in Klamath Falls, Pirtle, VP–replenishment & vendor Lowe’s has leased 116,934-sq. ft. in a new industrial park St. Petersburg, Fl.West. Randy James has rejoined Frontier Or.,Lumber, to meet growing demand in the Alan Shore, director– in Gilbert, Az., to open asupport; distribution and fulfillment center in Forest Products, Tulsa, Ok., as a John Weber, ex-Deer Park Lumber, seasonal merchandise; and Heath early 2021. lumber trader. Wilsonart Expands is a new account mgr. with TFL Lodge in West K e nton elease d y , 1.2 d i million r e c t o r –sq. h aft. r d at l i nthe es It reportedly also agreed Wilsonart Surfaces has broken on ex-acpi, has been Lumber Co.,Engineered Houston, Tx. Brianground Barrow, merchandise. directors Benaroya Pacific Northwest Regional New Logistics Center are in a new thermally fused laminate (TFL) facility in Klamath named general mgr. of Wellborn Tim Elliot, mainframe applications; Winlock, Wa. Nicholas Zimmerman, ex-84 Lumber, Falls, Or. Forest Products, Alexander City, Al. Tim Bishop, mainframe operations; has joined to White Cap, operational as regional by July Expected be fully 2021, the Todd Wallace, technology solutions commodity John which Lambie, Builders Second-Hand Lumberyard Reopens new facility willleader, feature aoverseeing quick-cycle press, willex-Milwaukee & architecture; Grant Morrow, lumber and plywood buyers in the Supply, has joined the sales team significantly increase its production capabilities on the West in Flagstaff eCommerce; and Tom Fontana, Northeast and Southeast. at CrossRoads Building Coast. After Supply, being closed forcredit. nearly nine years, E.R.I.C. Building Menomonee offerings garnered tremendous supportFalls, Wi. Supply, Flagstaff, Az., has reopened with a new owner. A.J.“Our Grome has beenhave named store mgr. Shayveteran Clark, ex-Sherwin-Williams, from both specifiers and Supply, fabricators,” Ron Ubertini, Construction Darwin Dahozy purchased of McCoy’s Building New said Chase Vidra has been promotedindustry has joined the inside team at VP-product management. “TFL is a key part of that the business and inventory, and reopened in earlysales October after Braunfels, Tx. Jason Harrison to general mgr. for 84 Lumber, Obdyke, Pa.their offering, of our Oh.a Ian monthPicard, of prepping theBenjamin long-vacant space.Horsham, He admits s u c c e and e d s this G r onext m e expansion a s m g r. is i an continuation Springdale, strategy to enable us to meet growing and better current collection used, recycled andScalze, discarded building northwest San Antonio. Mario Soto demand ex-BMC, is new to outside sales of Michael Angelo ex-Dakota serve our customers.” materials will require more timeand to Kyle organize, so initially will is now store mgr. in El Paso, Tx. with 84 in Richmond, Va. Safety, Jorgenson are new be closed on Mondays through Wednesdays as itreps continues to Midwest regional sales for Trex Michael Glowacki, Sherwood Lumber, Jeff Curler is now executive VP organize.” of “clean up and Lowe’s Bulking Up in the West Commercial, Minneapolis, Mn. Melville, N.Y., has been promoted to purchasing and David Mobley Dahozy, 49, moved to the area two years ago looking to To meet fast-growing demand for building materials, lead the Exterior Building Product & executive VP of sales for Orgill, Heaton now aaspartner 3C buy or start his own Keith business, after aiscareer a welderin and Lowe’s Home Improvement Centers, Mooresville, N.C., will Outdoor Living Division. Collierville, Tn. They succeed Brett Forest Products, Concord, N.C. residential/commercial fencer. invest $1.7 billion to update its supply chain—with much of

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36 32

n Products Digest nnFebruary 2022 n Building The Merchant Magazine November 2020

Building-Products.com Building-Products.com

Daniel Boss has been appointed senior VP of research & development for AZEK, Skokie, Il. He replaces Bruce Stanhope, who is retiring. Joseph Gervase is new to BlueLinx, as industrial territory sales mgr. in McKinney, Tx. Bob Gleason, Altenloh, Brinck & Co. US, has been named Texas regional sales mgr. in the Lumber Yard division for SPAX Fasteners. Josh Herbert, ex-L&W Supply, is back at Builders FirstSource, Summerville, S.C., as assistant general mgr. Kylie Holland , Curtis Lumber Co., Ballston Spa, N.Y., has been promoted to executive VP.

Paul LaRoche, mgr., Libertville Ace Hardware, Libertyville, Il., was honored for 50 years with the store. Tom Parsons and Jody Buckner have joined Chelsea Building Products, Oakmont, Pa., as technical service reps for Everlast siding. Parsons, based in Newtown, Ct., will cover the Northeast region and Buckner, in Dalton, Ga., will focus on the South. Will Lampe, Lampe & Malphrus Lumber Co., Smithfield, N.C., has been elected chairman of the Southern Forest Products Association, succeeding Craig Forbes, Weyerhaeuser Co., Hot

Springs, Ar. Mark Richardson, Westervelt Lumber, Tuscaloosa, Al., is now vice chairman, and Rich Mills, Hood Industries, Hattiesburg, Ms., treasurer. Eric Gee was re-elected executive director. Bettina Ring has been appointed chief sustainability & diversity officer for the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, Washington, D.C. Sue Render has been engaged as bankruptcy advisor at MungusFungus Forest Products, Climax, Nv., according to owners Hugh Mungus and Freddy Fungus.

William Lance Greer, ex-SPEC Building Materials, has joined the outside sales team at Beacon, covering Dallas-Fort Worth, Tx. Christopher Heston, Richards Building Supply, Raleigh, N.C., was promoted to branch mgr. Quinn Kenning is now in outside sales with Interior Exterior Building Supply, New Orleans, La. Tony Pabon has been promoted to general mgr. at American Builders Supply, North Fort Myers, Fl. Aaron Smith, ex-Sherwin-Williams, has moved to Hammond Lumber Co., Brunswick, Me., as Paint Pro sales mgr. Kelsey Cooper has joined the sales force at Midsouth Lumber Co. of Northwest Florida, Panama City, Fl. Christian Parra has been promoted to director of international sales for Do it Best Corp., Fort Wayne, In. Greg Fuller is now VP of sales & business development, and Nick Talarico is VP of eCommerce. Amanda Siri is a new forest products trader, and Rachel Baker is an order support specialist. Richard Euckert has been promoted to merchandise coordinator and Jenna Grannan to consumer marketing sales & service mgr. Austin So is joining Armstrong World Industries, Lancaster, Pa., as senior VP, general counsel, and secretary. He succeeds Mark Hershey, who is now senior VP, Americas. Sonya Bedsole is new to M.C. Dixon Lumber Co., Eufala, Al., as controller. Building-Products.com

February 2022 n Building Products Digest n

Builder Revives Steel Deck Framing

New Castle Building Group, Roswell, Ga., has acquired Trex’s steel deck framing manufacturing and distribution capabilities to launch its own New Castle Steel deck framing. Trex discontinued its Elevations line at the end of 2020, leaving Fortress Building Products’ Evolution as the only national brand in the marketplace. New Castle owner Jason Alloway noted, “I have been in the construction industry for over 20 years and have a passion for building longer-lasting decks and outdoor spaces for my clients. When the opportunity arose to manufacture a quality lightweight steel product, I jumped at the chance.” New Castle Steel is triple-coated to prevent shifting, splitting, warping, rotting, or rusting while precise engineering ensures surfaces remain flat. The Class IA fire-rated product is lightweight but sturdy enough to accommodate cantilevers and contemporary curved deck designs. New Castle Steel contains 25% recycled steel and is a 100% renewable resource, contributing to LEED points for building projects. Products—including track 14-gauge, beam 14-gauge, joist 18-gauge, new joist 14-gauge, beam end cap, blocking, screws, starter clip, and spray paint—begin shipping March 1.

Ohio Dealer Consolidating

Late last month, Hartville Hardware & Lumber closed its three-year-old location in Tallmadge, Oh., “to focus on locations that better fit its overall strategy and address changing consumer buying behavior, which favors a combination of brick-and-mortar and digital channels.” Formerly operated by Henry Bierce Co., the 10,000-sq. ft. branch was Hartville’s second and smallest location. Its stores in Hartville and Middlefield, Oh., will remain open.

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

TREX broke ground in January on its new worldwide headquarters.

Trex Building New Headquarters

Trex Co. has broken ground on a new global headquarters in Winchester, Va. The new 64,000-sq. ft. office facility will sit on eight acres and house approximately 200 corporate employees. With an anticipated mid-2023 move-in date, the building will “encompass eco-friendly elements reflecting Trex’s environmental legacy and commitment to sustainability.”

Home Depot Improves Credit Cards

The Home Depot has rolled out the Pro Xtra Credit Card and updated its Commercial Account Card. The Pro Xtra card can be linked with the Pro Xtra loyalty program to earn registered members perks four times faster on card purchases. Upon approval, members can save up to $100 off of their next qualifying purchase. In addition, both cards provide members with the ability to issue cards to employees to make purchases and feature a return period up to a full year. Flexible payment options include a 2% early pay discount if the bill is paid online within 20 days or an extended 60-day payment window.

Building-Products.com

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NEW Products

Instant Infill Rows and Rows of Columns

Digger Specialties Inc. offers an in-depth selection of beautiful, durable, functional columns that provide a distinctive look to the porch, front entry, or exterior of residential homes or commercial properties. DSI Columns offer quality craftsmanship, impeccable design, and integrated architectural elements to deliver an elegant, low-maintenance, and long-lasting column. Available in aluminum, composite and fiberglass materials, a variety of aesthetic designs can be selected including round, raised and recessed panels, and square and fluted columns depending on the material selected.

New kits allow for Barrette Outdoor Living’s design-forward Decorative Screen Panels (DSPs) to be used as infills with select RDI Collection aluminum and vinyl railing products. The kits provide a customizable, code-compliant, semi-private infill option for RDI Collection Finyl Line Vinyl Railing, Avalon Aluminum Railing, and Privacy Rail. Homeowners can also use DSPs under deck in place of traditional lattice or as an interior or exterior wall hanging for cohesive styling. The Decorative Screen Panels are sold separately. n BARRETTEOUTDOORLIVING.COM (800) 336-2383

n DSICOLUMNS.COM (800) 446-7659

Ingenious Openings

RIDGID’s new 18V SubCompact Brushless 6-1/2” Circular Saw pairs powerful brushless motor technology in a compact, lightweight tool design. Weighing just 5.4 lbs., the saw delivers up to 5,000 RPM and a 2-1/4” depth of cut to easily cut through 2x material and triple-stacked 3/4” OSB. It delivers up to 35% faster cutting speeds than previous 6-1/2” models. The tool features a 50° bevel capacity to cut at the most common angles and is vacuum attachment compatible with 1-3/4” and 1-1/4” hoses.

Masonite M-Pwr Smart Doors, the first residential exterior doors to integrate power, lights, a video doorbell, and a smart lock into the door system, have been introduced by Masonite International. The doors employ patent-pending, UL-certified technology to connect residential exterior doors to a home’s electrical system and wireless internet network. To ensure that the doors are “always on” in the event of a power outage, an emergency backup battery can sustain system power up to 24 hours when fully charged. A smartphone app enables homeowners to remotely program and control motion-activated LED welcome lighting and confirm whether the door is open or closed at any time.

n RIDGID.COM (800) 474-3443

n MPWRSMARTDOORS.COM (800) 663-3667

Light Cuts

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

Building-Products.com

Super-Speedy Deck System

Vinyl Trends Inc. is introducing Decktec, reportedly the world’s fastest decking system, to the North American market. Compared to conventional deck builds, Decktec is an innovative new system that allows builders to lay decking boards in half the time. Manufactured from 100% recycled polypropylene with both fixed and removable spacers, the system also protects the joists from the elements and is suitable for all natural timbers. Fast and easy to set out, Decktec progressively straightens every board along the way, while allowing for expansion and contraction. n DECKTECUSA.COM (866) 301-7833

Spiral Cuts

Bestway Products Co.’s full line of Spyral saw blades enable the tight, intricate cuts that are virtually impossible with conventional flat saw blades. Designed with a single continuous cutting tooth that spirals 360° around the length of a hardened steel wire, the blades cut such materials as metals, plastics, ceramics, rubber, graphite and wood to make them ideal for many building, machining, crafting and fabrication applications. Able to cut in all directions, even sideways and backwards, they cut in the direction of the feed pressure, which can make a significant difference when cutting without rigid fixturing. Custom designed and built in-house, Spyral blades can be cut to specific lengths to meet the individual needs of customers. n BESTPRODUCTSCOMPANY.COM (310) 329-0600

Tie Wood to Masonry

Simpson Strong-Tie’s new light tension tie is designed to resist tension loads when used to attach wood to concrete or masonry walls. LTTP2’s patent-pending, one-piece design offers 25% higher allowable loads than its predecessors, increasing design flexibility. Fabricated from a single piece of galvanized steel, it has an extruded anchor bolt hole to accommodate 1/2”, 5/8” and 3/4” bolt diameters plus two separate nailing patterns: obround holes spaced 3” apart for I-joist purlins, and square holes spaced to accommodate the narrow face of 2x solid sawn purlins. It can install vertically on the wide face of a minimum 2x4 stud for holdown applications, fastened with nails or StrongDrive SD Connector screws. n STRONGTIE.COM (800) 999-5099

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

Growing Forklift Family

Toyota Material Handling is releasing 22 new electric material handlers, including 12 new reach truck models. The expanded lineup includes four different operator compartments; 24V, 36V and 48V models; a multidirectional model for handling long loads in narrow aisles; high-capacity models with a maximum fork height of 45 ft.; and three Moving Mast Reach Truck models for unique applications such as indoor/outdoor use. Also being added are a Low Level Order Picker, Furniture Order Picker, Enclosed End Rider and Stand-Up Rider pallet jacks, and four electric pneumatic forklift models in capacities from 3,000 to 17,500 lbs. n TOYOTAFORKLIFT.COM (888) 523-1742

Rooftop Caps & Straps

Green Link has changed the composition of its straps and caps from urethane to injection molded glass-reinforced nylon, still retaining the striking “safety yellow” color. Straps are designed for heavy pipe, while a cap design was developed for lite pipe supports. n GREENLINKENGINEERING.COM (888) 672-9897 Building-Products.com

Rotary Tool Kit

Ryobi’s new 12V Rotary Tool Kit has a range of 5,000 to 35,000 Rated RPM, providing the power to cut, grind and sand most materials with ease. Its variable speed dial helps find the perfect speed for each application. The tool also features the new innovative Quick-Change Collet that allows for four times faster accessory changes. The kit comes with 35 accessories and three attachments for such applications as grinding, drilling and cutting. n RYOBITOOLS.COM (800) 525-2579

Carbide Teeth Hole Saws

Milwaukee Tool’s next generation of Hole Dozer with Carbide Teeth Hole Saws feature a new 3 TPI design to deliver faster cuts with the durability of a bi-metal saw and life of a carbide hole saw. The teeth can cut through stainless steel, cast iron, fastener-embedded wood, cement board, fiberglass, plaster, asphalt shingle and more with ease. Deep gullets clear material fast and all-access slots provide fastest plug removal. A new slot design increases pilot visibility for accurate placement and faster chip ejection keeping the cut cool. Offered in sizes from 3/4” to 6”, the hole saws have a cutting depth of 1.62”. n MILWAUKEETOOL.COM (800) 729-3878

Vent Planner DIY Aluminum Pergola

Featuring a matte black finish, Barrette Outdoor Living’s DIY-friendly aluminum pergola provides a modern alternative to traditional wood models. With a quick assembly time and requiring minimal tools (an Allen wrench/hex key is included), the 8’x8’ pergola was designed with smaller spaces in mind. Pergolas are customizable by adding Barrette’s compatible Decorative Screen Panels to the roof and optional side walls. The pergola comes standard with Cam Lock brackets that enable rooftop panels to be installed and removed with a simple twist—allowing homeowners to easily install panels, remove them during the winter months, or completely swap out panels with different patterns and colors.

Atlas Roofing is rolling out three new ventilation solutions to improve home energy efficiency, optimize roof performance, and reduce excessive attic heat and moisture. TruRidge PRO 25 Rolled Exhaust Ventilation provides the rigidity of a sectional ridge vent with the flexibility of a lightweight roll for easy installation. The rolled vent lays flat to create a smooth roof ridge. All-aluminum HighPoint AL 50 Slant Back Roof-Mounted Vents extend roof and shingle life with a one-piece base and throat that is durable and weathertight, with fixed louvers and an 8” throat with a 50-sq. in. NFA to maximize airflow. HighPoint GL 50 Slant Back Roof-Mounted Vent is constructed from heavy-duty galvanized steel with a one-piece base/throat design and fixed louvers.

n BARRETTEOUTDOORLIVING.COM (800) 336-2383

n ATLASROOFING.COM (800) 388-6134

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

Building-Products.com

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IN Memoriam Maurice E. Lezzer, 95, former head of Lezzer Lumber Co., Curwensville, Pa., passed away Jan. 10 He attended Penn State University for a year before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1944, serving with the Seabees during the war. He then spent many years as the CEO of Lezzer Lumber. Robert M. “Bob” Fechtor, 95, owner and chairman of the board of The Hartford Lumber Co., Hartford, Ct., died Jan. 11 in West Hartford. Born in Boston, Bob served as a corporal in the U.S. Air Force during World War II and graduated from Brown University in 1948. Ethelmae Humphreys, 94, chairman emerita of TAMKO Building Products, Joplin, Mo., died Dec. 27. The daughter of TAMKO founder E.L. Craig and considered “the matriarch of the roofing industry,” she worked for the building products manufacturer since 1948, starting by sacking nails in a Kansas City shingle plant. Ethelmae was named executive VP and took control of the day-to-day operations of TAMKO in 1950, at the age of the 23, after her father suffered a stroke. She left full-time work at TAMKO in the late 1950s to care for her children with her husband J.P. Humphreys taking the lead at TAMKO. She served as TAMKO’s chairman of the board beginning in 1972 and returned to full-time work at the company in 1985. Ethelmae became CEO after her husband’s death in 1993, until the couple’s oldest son, David, was named president

and CEO the following year. In 2019, she was named chairman emerita and continued to work on mostly a daily basis until the time of her death. Michael John “Mike” Tipps, 69, general manager of Titan Metal Werks, Wheeling, Il., passed away Dec. 22 of complications due to COVID. He entered the lumber/hardware industry in 1970, right out of high school. From 1984 to 1995, he served as merchandising manager with Edward Hines Lumber, Itasca, Il., and had been with Titan since 1999. Luther Howard “Billy” Turnage, 69, North Carolina veteran who specialized in LBM sales to the film industry, passed away Jan. 9. Shortly after graduating from University of North Carolina-Wilmington, Billy was drafted into the Army. He then spent 25 years with EW Godwin’s Sons Lumber, Wilmington, N.C., before joining the inside sales team at H.W. Williams Lumber, Burgaw, N.C. Eugene C. “Gene” Rosinski, 79, former owner of North Andover Building Center (previously Weber Lumber), North Andover, Ma., died Jan. 12 after a lengthy battle with cancer. He graduated from the New England Institute of Anatomy in 1967. Everette Leonidas Gloyd, 101, longtime manager of Bonsteel Lumber Yard, Branson, Mo., passed away Jan. 1. He worked for Madry Lumber Co. and for Shade Tree Co. before opening Gloyd Brothers Lumber Mill with his brother, Archie. He disbanded the mill during the war and joined the Army in

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

1944, fighting in the Battle of the Bulge, the Rhineland, and Central Europe campaigns. He was awarded two Bronze Stars. Everette then spent over 30 years managing Bonsteel Lumber. William B. Cosgrove, 80, former Allentown, Pa., area lumber salesman, died Jan. 2. Shortly after his graduation from Siena College in Albany, N.Y., he spent six years in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, achieving the rank of Major. He then began working for Weyerhaeuser in the Pacific Northwest, before transferring to the Allentown area in 1970. He continued in lumber sales with Scholl Lumber, Fountain Hill, Pa. Steve Tate, 69, founder and owner for over 30 years of KT Lumber Sales, Grenada, Ms., died Dec. 24.

TALK Back HANG IN THERE I love this month’s topic (“Tough,” BPD Jan., p. 8). That has been my entire career, which I am now entering my 44th year! Last year was the toughest though—shorthanded and ending up 29% over previous year. Before I read your article I was thinking of resigning. After I read your article, I realized that it’s been tough all along and I somehow got through it. I must be tough. Thank you. Dave Fridolph Universal Supply Co. Pleasantville, N.J. Building-Products.com

DATE Book Listings are often submitted months in advance. Always verify dates and locations with sponsor before making plans to attend. Northwestern Lumber Assn. – Feb. 1-2, Expo Nebraska, Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center, LaVista, Ne.; Feb. 3-4, Expo Iowa, Sheraton, West Des Moines, Ia.; www.nlassn.org. Building Material Suppliers Association – Feb. 2-3, annual Learning Exchange & LBM Expo, Hickory, N.C.; www.mybmsa.org. Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers Assn. – Feb. 2-6, annual meeting, Hollywood, Fl.; www.appalachianhardwood.org. Illinois Lumber & Material Dealers Association – Feb. 3, Expo, ParA-Dice Hotel, East Peoria, Il.; www.ilmda.com/expo. Mississippi Lumber Manufacturers Assn. – Feb. 3-4, annual meeting, Providence Hill Farm, Jackson, Ms.; mlmalumber.com. Peak Auctioneering – Feb. 3-5, LBM auction, Kansas City, Mo.; www. peakauction.com. Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen’s Assn. – Feb. 7-9, convention & expo, Marriott Downtown, Indianapolis, In.; www.ihla.org. International Builder’s Show/Kitchen & Bath Industry Show – Feb. 8-10, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Fl.; www. buildersshow.com. Florida Hardware Co. – Feb. 11-12, dealer market, Renaissance Orlando at Sea World, Orlando, Fl.; www.floridahardware.com. Do it Best – Feb. 11-25, virtual spring market; www.doitbestcorp.com. Monroe Hardware Co. – Feb. 12-13, spring market, Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Myrtle Beach, S.C.; monroehardware.com. Northwestern Lumber Association – Feb. 15, sales workshop, Brooklyn Park, Mn.; www.nlassn.org. American Fence Association – Feb. 15-18, FenceTech show, New Orleans, La.; www.americanfenceassociation.com.

Blish-Mize – March 17-19, spring market, Overland Park Convention Center, Overland Park, Ks.; www.blishmize.com. Peak Auctioneering – March 19, LBM Auction, Kane County Fairgrounds, Chicago, Il.; www.peakauction.com. University of Innovative Distribution – March 21-24, Indianapolis, In.; www.univid.org. Mid-America Lumbermens Association – March 22, contractor sales class, Branson, Mo.; www.themla.com. Northwestern Lumber Association – March 22-23, Estimating 2&3, Cedar Rapids, Ia.; www.nlassn.org. Southern Cypress Manufacturers Assn. – March 22-23, annual meeting, Sandestin, Miramar Beach, Fl.; www.cypressinfo.org. Wallace Hardware – March 22-24, spring dealer market, LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge, Tn.; www.wallacehardware.com. Building Material Suppliers Assn. – March 23-24, margin mastery & special order opportunity, Columbus, Oh.; www.mybmsa.org. Hardwood Manufacturers Association – March 23-25, national conference & expo, Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, Miramar Beach, Fl.; www.hmamembers.org. LMC – March 23-25, annual meeting, Tampa, Fl.; www.lmc.net. Mid-America Lumbermens Association – March 24, contractor sales class, St. Louis, Mo.; www.themla.com. Northwestern Lumber Association – March 24, OSCA Bootcamp, Brooklyn Park, Mn.; www.nlassn.org. JLC Live Show – March 24-26, Rhode Island Convention Center, Providence, R.I.; www.jlclive.com. Peak Auctioneering – March 26, LBM Auction, Orange County Fairgrounds, Middletown, N.Y.; www.peakauction.com. Kentucky Forest Industries Association – March 29-31, annual meeting, Embassy Suites, Lexington, Ky.; www.kfia.org.

LBM Advantage – Feb. 21-23, annual buying show & shareholder meeting, Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Ceter, Kissimmee, Fl.; www.lbmadvantage.com. Northwestern Lumber Association – Feb. 22-24, Estimating 1-2-3, Madison, Wi.; www.nlassn.org. Florida Building Material Alliance – Feb. 24, TopGolf tournament, Tampa, Fl.; www.fbma.org. Orgill – Feb. 24-26, spring dealer market, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Fl.; www.orgill.com. Hoo-Hoo International – Feb. 26, mid-year board meeting, Menger Hotel, San Antonio, Tx.; www.hoohoo.org. Peak Auctioneering – Feb. 26, LBM Auction, Howard County Fairground, Baltimore, Md.; www. peakauction.com. Structural Insulated Panel Assn. – Feb. 27-March 2, annual meeting & conference, Doubletree at SeaWorld, Orlando, Fl.; www.sips.org. Mid-America Lumbermens Assn. – March 1, OCSA Bootcamps, Star Lumber, Wichita, Ks.; March 3, Springfield, Mo.; themla.com. North American Wholesale Lumber Association – March 5-8, Leadership Summit, Fort Lauderdale, Fl.; www.nawla.org. Northwestern Lumber Association – March 7-8, Expo North, River’s Edge Convention Center, St. Cloud, Mn.; www.nlassn.org. Ace Hardware Corp. – March 8-11, spring convention, Las Vegas, Nv.; www.acehardware.com. National Wooden Pallet & Container Assn. – March 9-11, annual leadership conference, Carlsbad, Ca.; www.palletcentral.com. Emery Jensen – March 11-12, Edge spring show, Las Vegas Convention Center, Law Vegas, Nv.; emeryjensendistribution.com. Southern Forest Products Association/Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association – March 16-18, joint spring meeting, Hotel Monteleone, New Orleans, La.; www.slma.org. Building-Products.com

February 2022 n Building Products Digest n

CENTENNIAL Flashback

The 1930s

n honor of this year’s 100th anniversay of BPD’s sister publication, The Merchant Magazine, as well as the 40th anniversary of BPD, we are looking back each month, decade by decade, at the advertisers that have long supported us and are still growing strong to this day. The 1930s were undoubtedly our publication’s most challenging period—we were still in our adolescence yet suddenly forced to navigate a decade-long Depression. With your support, we emerged stronger than ever. • APA – The Engineered Wood Association members jointly began promoting Douglas fir plywood before they’d even officially formed the association. Their first collective ad—in May of 1931 in The Merchant Magazine pre-dated the founding of the Douglas Fir Plywood Association by two full years. The group was renamed the American Plywood Association in 1964 and changed to its current moniker in 1994. • California Saw & Knife Works was formed in San Francisco in 1886 and began targeting Merchant readers in June of 1934. The firm merged with Dan Lines and Roseburg Saw & Tool Co., and relocated to Oregon in 2016. • Pacific Mutual Door was founded in 1912 in Tacoma by eight manufacturers to introduce Douglas fir millwork products to the East Coast. It grew to become the world’s largest manufacturer of DF plywood. First advertising with its Northern California distributor, White Brothers, in September 1934, PMD is now based in Kansas City and since 2019 has been a division of HDI.

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

• Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau began promoting members’ Certi-labeled cedar products in The Merchant in November 1935, back when it was known as the Red Cedar Shingle Bureau, having yet to merge with the Hand-Split Red Cedar Shake Association.

• CertainTeed was founded in Illinois in 1904 as General Roofing Manufacturing Co. changing in 1917 to CertainTeed from its slogan “Quality Made Certain, Satisfaction Guaran-teed.” By the time it advertised in The Merchant in February 1937, CertainTeed was already the world’s largest manufacturer of asphalt shingles. Since 1988, it has been a wholly owned subsidiary of Saint-Gobain. • Masonite announced the opening of its first California warehouse in March 1937, filled with its patented hardboard insulation, wallboard and flooring products. It didn’t enter the door business until 1972 and since 2001 has been owned by Premdor Corp.

Building-Products.com

• US Gypsum, Chicago, Il., has long been the nation’s largest distributor of wallboard and largest manufacturer of gypsum products. Its Sheetrock brand, which it began promoting in The Merchant in March 1937, has become synonymous with gypsum panels.

• Wolmanized Wood, now a brand of Arxada, was introduced to readers of The Merchant in May of 1938, back in the days before “pressure treated lumber” was a household phrase.

• Hyster Co. was founded in Portland, Or., in 1929 as the Willamette-Ersted Co., but by the time it began advertising in The Merchant in March 1937, the company had incorporated the nickname for its lift trucks (“Hysters,” derived from “Hoist’er”) into its formal business name. • Haley Bros., now based in Buena Park, Ca., with four West Coast facilities, first advertised its doors to lumberyards in May 1937.

• National Oak Flooring Manufacturers Association, Memphis, Tn., promoted hardwood flooring produced by its 70 member mills as early as May 1937.

Building-Products.com

• T.M. Cobb. opened its millwork distribution center in Los Angeles in 1935—and let the world know about in in the pages of The Merchant in June of 1938. Today, the business is in its fourth generation, operating five manufacturing plants, four distribution warehouses, and five sales offices. • Macklanburg Duncan of Oklahoma City, Ok., was formed in 1920 to introduce superior weatherstripping products, first under the Numetal brand, but soon expanding to Nu-Way weather strip, Nu-Art trim, Nu-Calk caulk, and Nu-Glaze glazing compound by the time it began advertising in The Merchant in January 1939. The company was purchased by GE in 2000 and reorganized as M-D Building Products. February 2022 n Building Products Digest n

ADVERTISERS Index Page

Armadillo Composite Decking www.armadillodeck.com

Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Assn. www.nelma.org

Arxada www.wolmanizedwood.com

Orgill www.orgill.com

Cover III

Barrette Outdoor Living www.barretteoutdoorliving.com

7, 13

ProWood www.prowoodlumber.com

Coastal Forest Products www.ironwoods.com

RDB Solutions www.rdb-solutions.com

Crumpler Plastic Pipe www.cpp-pipe.com

25, 39

Redwood Empire www.buyredwood.com

CT Darnell www.ct-darnell.com

Regal ideas www.regalideas.com

DuxxBak Composite Decking www.duxxbakdecking.com

Simpson Strong-Tie www.strongtie.com

Everwood Treatment Co. www.everwoodtreatment.com

Siskiyou Forest Products www.siskiyouforestproducts.com

526 Events www.526.events

Smith Millwork www.smithmillwork.com

26-27

Great Southern Wood Preserving www.yellawood.com

Sure Drive USA www.suredrive.com

Humboldt Sawmill www.mendoco.com

Swanson Group Sales Co. www.swansongroup.biz Deck Building Solutions • 866-767-1850 • www.suredrive.com • sales@suredrive.com

Cover IV

Madison Wood Preservers www.madwood.com

Timber Products www.timberproducts.com

Manufacturers Reserve Supply www.mrslumber.com

TIVA Building Products www.tivabp.com

Monarch Technologies www.monadeck.com

TurboClip www.turboclipusa.com

North American Wholesale Lumber Assn. www.nawla.org

Cover II

West Fraser www.westfraser.com/osb

Welcome Aboard!

BPD is excited to introduce our readers to two new advertisers: RDB Solutions specializes in custom application development, Monarch Technologies’ state-of-the-art Monadeck decking products building materials & lumber software systems, and inclusive are safe for the environment, come with a 50-year warranty, and business solutions in the lumber & building materials wholesale, are ideal for residential and commercial projects. Their product line remanufacturing and distribution center industries. consists of 12″-wide planks that come in variable color selections. www.rdb-solutions.com www.monadeck.com Keep them in mind the next time you’re looking for such products!

n Building Products Digest n February 2022

Building-Products.com

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new ProductS

dateBook

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