BPD
CEDAR SIDING, SHAKES & SHINGLES REDWOOD THE GREEN SIDE OF CYPRESS MARCH 2013
Building Products Digest
INDUSTRY NEWS & MONEY-MAKING STRATEGIES FOR LUMBER & BUILDING MATERIAL DEALERS & DISTRIBUTORS
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BPD
March 2013
Volume 32 Number 1
Building Products Digest
Special Features
In Every Issue
8 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
WESTERN RED CEDAR MATCHES STYLE & BUDGET
14 INDUSTRY TRENDS
SOUTHERN CYPRESS EARNING POINTS WITH ARCHITECTS
10 FIRST PERSON
30 MANAGEMENT TIPS
12 FEATURE STORY
37 PHOTO RECAP: IBS IN VEGAS 40 PHOTO RECAP: NRLA EXPO
IN DEFENSE OF CEDAR SHAKES & SHINGLES REDWOOD A NATURAL FOR “BUY AMERICAN” CAMPAIGNS
LESSONS FROM THE SHOW FLOOR: DON’T SETTLE FOR VISIBILITY
6 TOTALLY RANDOM 16 COMPETITIVE INTELLIGENCE 18 OLSEN ON SALES 20 GREEN RETAILING 28 MOVERS & SHAKERS 29 IN MEMORIAM 32 NEW PRODUCTS 43 ASSOCIATION UPDATE 44 CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE 45 DATE BOOK 46 IDEA FILE 46 ADVERTISERS INDEX
Online BREAKING INDUSTRY NEWS & INDUSTRY PHOTO DOWNLOADS BUILDING-PRODUCTS.COM (FOLLOW LINK FOR PHOTOS)
BPD: DIGITAL VERSION
VIEW THE LATEST ISSUE AT BUILDING-PRODUCTS.COM
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Building Products Digest
March 2013
Building-Products.com
TOTALLY Random By Alan Oakes
BPD
Building Products Digest www.building-products.com
Liar, Liar, pants on fire
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in threes, my hope is that my first three travel adventures of 2013 bring to an end my mishaps for the year. My first event cost $800 and 17 hours of travel time—after which I never arrived in Eureka, Ca., for the Humboldt HooHoo Club crab feed. Unlike Archimedes, the pilot could not find his way in the fog. A few days later, heading for the International Builders Show, I placed my shoes on the airport security belt and by the time they emerged from the scanner, one of my shoes had been cut in half. Eighty dollars in taxi fares later, I found the only store open in Vegas –Walmart—and a new shiny pair of $30 shoes. And, the following weekend, while I escaped Boston hours before the blizzard, I endured a great bout of seafood poisoning to kick off the NRLA show. Happy days! I had something happen to me the other day that made me think about how much lying we see in business. Sometimes people just cannot face you and tell you outright why they did not do something you were expecting. The trouble is so many of these lies are so transparent it creates a pattern of distrust that is difficult to overcome in future negotiations or contact. In a recent survey, 25% of executives admitted to lying at work and 39% confessed to exaggeration. Sometimes, it is not the actual lying itself but—a la’ Lance Armstrong—the cover-up that can be more difficult to forgive. Now, I think it true that we all fib a bit. Studies suggest we all bend the truth one to two times a day, mostly at work. Some of the lies at work are really a covering up to protect a mistake or something forgotten, but in most cases they create no real harm, unless there is a consistent pattern of incompetence. In some cases, it may be to give a positive yet unearned affirmation to try to motivate a colleague or employee. But what about those sick days when not really sick? The trouble is that human nature creates a snowball. Once you get away with one, then two fabrications, lying can become a habit and those around you must decide when to believe you— and at what point to pretty much discount everything you say. As an employee, while we may not actually think we are lying, a simple act of omission is no different. For example, if we see an employee stealing stationery, we are faced with a difficult dilemma: do we do nothing or do we blow the whistle and suffer all the negatives that accompany that decison? How about not announcing a pregnancy at work because of fear of what it might mean? I think most of us would understand the latter due to corporate behavior. I think the biggest lies I have observed in my career came when state-of-the-art practitioners of sucking up got away with it and were even promoted because of it. Inflation of truth, whether on your resume or telling your boss how great (s)he is when (s)he is not, is in fact a lie. Over the years, we have all heard of severe fraud within corporations, such as Enron. Even in this industry, BPD’s news columns have reported on bookkeepers who have been ripping off their employers for years. But more often it is that above- and belowthe-line stretching of the truth we encounter in dealing with customers and suppliers. While most business actions are transparent, there are a number of occasions where negotiations may not be quite truthful if it means getting the order or not getting it. To be able to negotiate effectively, you need to be able to trust who you are negotiating with. I always try to establish this honesty by asking questions that I already know the answer to. If I come to the conclusion that I cannot trust them, I try to let them know in subtle and sometimes not-so-subtle ways that I know. But, just as at Enron, if you create a culture from the top down that says nothing stands in the way of business results and personal gain, that everything and anything is okay, and that cheating and lying, both internally and externally, are acceptable methods of conducting business, be careful. Just ask old Bernie Madoff! I look forward to being in the safety of my office for the next two weeks, but happy trails to you. S EVERYTHING COMES
Alan Oakes, Publisher ajoakes@aol.com
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Building Products Digest
March 2013
A publication of Cutler Publishing
4500 Campus Dr., Ste. 480, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Publisher Alan Oakes ajoakes@aol.com Publisher Emeritus David Cutler Director of Editorial & Production David Koenig dkoenig@building-products.com Editor Karen Debats kdebats@building-products.com Contributing Editors Carla Waldemar, James Olsen, Jay Tompt Advertising Sales Manager Chuck Casey ccasey@building-products.com Administration Director/Secretary Marie Oakes mfpoakes@aol.com Circulation Manager Heather Kelly hkelly@building-products.com
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Chuck Casey Phone (949) 852-1990 Fax 949-852-0231 ccasey@building-products.com Alan Oakes www.building-products.com Phone (949) 852-1990 Fax 949-852-0231 ajoakes@aol.com. CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE David Koenig Phone (949) 852-1990 Fax 949-852-0231 dkoenig@building-products.com
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SUBSCRIPTIONS Heather Kelly Phone (949) 852-1990 Fax 949-852-0231 hkelly@building-products.com or send a check to 4500 Campus Dr., Ste. 480, Newport Beach, CA 92660 U.S.A.: One year (12 issues), $24 Two years, $39 Three years, $54 FOREIGN (Per year, paid in advance in US funds): Surface-Canada or Mexico, $49 Other countries, $65 Air rates also available. SINGLE COPIES $4 + shipping BACK ISSUES $5 + shipping BUILDING PRODUCTS DIGEST is published monthly at 4500 Campus Dr., Ste. 480, Newport Beach, Ca. 92660-1872, (949) 852-1990, Fax 949-852-0231, www.buildingproducts.com, by Cutler Publishing, 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®2013 by Cutler Publishing, Inc. Cover and entire contents are fully protected and must not be reproduced in any manner without written permission. All Rights Reserved. BPD reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter, and assumes no liability for materials furnished to it.
Building-Products.com
Product Spotlight Western Red Cedar
Western red cedar matches style and budget
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SIGNIFICANT MARKET reset over the past several years has redefined the way consumers live and spend, and created a need for distributors to shift the way they specify and supply materials. Today’s selective marketplace casts more scrutiny on building products than ever before. Materials have to stand up to demanding construction and environmental expectations, all while returning value from source to supplier to end user. Materials must meet the demand for inspired design that is durable and timeless. Building products have to
look good, be environmentally conscious, and deliver a return on investment. Identifying materials that deliver well-rounded value is where the distributor plays an important role. Once a nice-to-have, green is now a given. Materials that combine independently verified environmental qualities with unquestioned beauty, durability and functionality achieve the greatest return. For those reasons, western red cedar is a desirable choice, especially for siding and decking projects. Renewable and readily available, western red cedar infuses natural
WESTERN RED CEDAR adds value to a home or outdoor living area. All photos courtesy Western Red Cedar Lumber Association
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Building Products Digest
March 2013
beauty, warmth and a uniquely real aesthetic appeal into projects large and small. Ideas, tips and how-to information can be found at wrcla.org. Rising consumer confidence among upper-income households has driven increased home-related spending and created a surge in home repair and remodeling. Remodel projects are still carrying the load in residential construction, even as the new construction housing market has shown some encouraging signs. An evolving family dynamic has put added pressure on homeowners to accommodate multi-generational households. As a result, motivated homeowners are turning to professional contractors and tackling projects themselves to transform need into reality. Spring is the most popular time of year for renovation. Room additions or enhancing decks and outdoor spaces are at the top of many to-do lists—but far from the only home improvement pursuits. Projects range from the practicality of adding indoor or outdoor living space to the beauty of enhancing curb appeal. Some blend the two to create a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor. Western red cedar adds value to a home, deck and outdoor living space. The wood’s deep hues, natural resistance to moisture, decay and insect damage, and straight grain and texture make it one of the most workable, rewarding and versatile woods. Its dimensional stability, the result of low density and shrinkage factors, allows the wood to lie flat, stay straight, and hold fastenings tightly. Building-Products.com
Hailed by both contractors and doit-yourself experts alike, wood’s ability to lend warmth to modern and monolithic designs and to the surrounding environment is unquestioned. The stylish texture and rusticcolored warmth of western red cedar
defines a mood and character, especially when building a stylish deck. Wood’s return on investment is also an important consideration. Woods like western red cedar typically recoup between 69% and 78% of their initial costs when a home is
resold, according to industry experts. Materials that combine timeless appeal, durability and a reputation for being easy to maintain are popular choices for a lasting impression. They deliver the value today’s consumer is looking for and look good doing it.
Cladding for Creative Tastes & Customized Needs A building’s exterior is its first and lasting impression on visitors and passersby. It also serves as a first line of defense against the elements. Done well and utilizing timeless materials, its cladding can create a classic look that stands out while adding value. Western red cedar is one such material. Its ageless sophistication and elegance perfectly infuse natural beauty, warmth and inspired design that complements any architectural style. Although modern science has given us many synthetic products that try to mimic the look of wood, solid woods like western red cedar still remain a favorite choice. With routine care, wood siding will outlast synthetic siding materials while radiating the real wood warmth and appearance. Many resources are available at wrcla.org to help generate ideas and inform the materials selection process for the professional and doit-yourself homeowner. But there are several key factors to consider when choosing cedar as a siding material.
Beauty. Above all, western red cedar has an enduring beauty that enhances the style of any building. Many cedar-sided houses built centuries ago still look beautiful today and have been prized because of their innate resistance to both moisture and insects. Wood siding is available in many options and finishes to fit the lifestyle of any building and effortlessly add warmth to both monolithic and modern structures. Durability . As is true with most materials, the most sustainable siding products are those that last the longest. Choosing a material that is both durable and suitable for your region’s climate will help reduce maintenance and repair costs, extend
Building-Products.com
the life of a home, and keep old materials from filling up the local landfill. Western red cedar is a wood with great dimensional stability and natural decay resistance. Free of pitch and resin, it provides an excellent base for a wide range of finishes. Paired with vapor barriers and building paper, and installed on the outside face of the wall sheathing, cedar provides a tight, natural barrier that prevents outside moisture from getting into the wall cavity while allowing moisture vapor to escape.
Usability. To add to the ease of cedar siding installation, wood clapboards can also be stained rather than painted to minimize peeling. Western red cedar siding comes in many different patterns and grades—such as bevel, board and batten, channel, and tongue-andgroove—to match style and budget and accommodate creative tastes
and customized needs.
Sustainability. While some siding products are still being manufactured from trees harvested from old-growth forests, Western red cedar is the only Forest Stewardship Council-certified siding. Cedar is also made from a renewable resource, uses less energy to manufacture than more highly processed synthetic materials, and results in very little waste because various industries make use of all the scrap wood. Choosing a material that combines aesthetic appeal, versatility and durability delivers the greatest value, especially when care is taken for proper application. Installation and maintenance of western red cedar siding is easy and the finished product produces a great result. The wood’s durability warms up a building with a clean, rich look and ageless style.
March 2013
Building Products Digest
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FIRST Person By Randy Engh, B.C. Shake & Shingle Association
Shake and fake?
In defense of cedar shakes and shingles
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OU DON ’ T HAVE TO go very far these days to be exposed to manmade roofing materials, all claiming to emulate, replicate, duplicate and imitate real western red cedar shakes and shingles. Many imitators even use the long-standing trade names associated with real cedar shakes and shingles, such as split shakes and sawn shingles. Take, for example, the recent International Builders Show in Las Vegas. Literally dozens of shake and shingle producers clamored for attention with their sample roof and wall panels of fakes, attempting to copy real cedar while at the same time denigrating the very product they tried to copy. We even had one shake producer come to our cedar shake and shingle stand at the show asking for a special selection of cedar shakes they could use for their copy moulds!
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Building Products Digest
Advertising with negative messaging about real cedar shakes and shingles feeds off the principal of “If you say something enough times, sooner or later people will believe you.” When they believe your message, they will pass it on. By the time the third or fourth person hears and repeats the false message, presto, it becomes accepted as fact by the general population. Just consider the following false statements now thought of as accepted facts : “You can’t get old growth anymore and there are no forests left.” “Cedar shakes need constant maintenance and don’t last.” “Cedar shakes burn.” “Quality cedar is not available or is too expensive.” “Cedar shakes are too hard to install.” March 2013
If you’ve bought into any of these statements, remember, they didn’t come from our industry! While it is said that imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, the shake and shingle industry is not impressed with the ongoing negative smear campaign. We appreciate the opportunity to set the record straight and speak for ourselves about our own product. Cedar shake and shingles are, of course, made from old growth raw material. They are salvaged in ecologically responsible helicopter airlifts from downed trees left in the forest from multiple decades ago, as well as supplied from the world’s leaders in forestry stewardship in log form that big-lumber sawmills can’t utilize. Produced in factories with complete waste utilization and the lowest energy consumption of any roofing product, real old growth western red cedar shakes are truly the most ecological, green, renewable roofing choice. Cedar is classed in the scientific category of “most durable”—that’s why natural cedar shakes have been used and proven for three centuries of human habitation protection. Today’s added factory pressure preservative treatments increase cedar’s performance in damp climates where roof debris and moisture accumulate. The products even carry a 30-year transferable, 50-year non-transferable, non-pro-rated warranty to back it up. Pat Skwarok, Western Wood Preservers, Aldergrove, B.C., says that in over 30 years of treating real cedar for the industry, his company has never had a claim due to decay. Factory-applied pressure preservaBuilding-Products.com
tives greatly reduce the need for roof cleaning and maintenance. In fact, just like every other roofing product on the market today, cleaning of excess debris for appearance and fire protection is all that is required with factory preserved shakes and shingles. Fire protection for cedar shakes and shingles in areas that require Class C, B, and even Class A roofing has been available for decades and also carries a 30/50 year, code-performing warranty. Quality of shakes and shingles is never an issue when purchasing products with ICC-ES report numbers on the label. Each member mill of the B.C. Shake & Shingle Association adheres to grading and packing requirements of 288 lineal inches of on-grade shakes per bundle of 24-inch shakes and tapersawns, and 635 lineal inches of on-grade shingles per bundle of 18-inch perfections. Simply demand ICC-ES-accredited, BCSSA member mill production, for assurance of quality from mills that conform to grade. While the cost of all roofing products fluctuates, real cedar is very competitive with, if not less expensive than, many of the current manmade imitations. A quick price comparison will show that all the benefits of using real cedar, with its centuries of proven performance, are available at favorable price points. Installation methods of real cedar shakes and shingles have changed very little over the decades. BCSSA has produced a helpful installation instruction DVD in English and Spanish. It’s posted on our website along with our “Authentic Choice,” “Care & Maintenance,” and “Facts & Myths about Real Cedar” video collection. There are regional and preference differences for cedar shakes and shingles. Shakes have the natural split face and appeal, tapersawn shakes the thick smooth profile, and shingles the flat refined appearance. It’s understandable that suppliers promote the products that are easiest to market. Just bear in mind that cedar shakes, with their two-ply and felt paper installation, have been proven since their inception; cedar tapersawn shakes are a beautiful choice for a shake-style, flat-laying roof, and shingles, with their three-ply system, are refined and elegant. All three choices are perfectly adaptable and acceptable, depending on your customer’s Building-Products.com
REAL CEDAR roofing has distinct advantages over the manmade imitators. (All photos courtesy B.C. Shake & Shingle Association)
interests. There has never been more information available that is so easy to access. Just check out our site at www.bcshakeshingle.com for all the facts, as well as our member mill list. So the next time you hear or see negative advertising or misinforma-
March 2013
tion about real cedar shakes and shingles, just consider where it’s coming from. Real cedar may be often imitated, but simply cannot be duplicated. – Randy Engh is manager of the B.C. Shake & Shingle Association. Reach him at randyengh@shaw.ca.
Building Products Digest
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FEATURE Story By Charlie Jourdain, California Redwood Association
Redwood a natural for “Buy American” campaigns
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ONSUMER PRIDE IN American-made products has returned, with a lesson for manufacturers: quality, quality, quality. In an age where brand loyalty can shift with the perceived best price for the product, we have our work cut out for us to not only help consumers give themselves permission to invest in American-made products, but to applaud their faith in the quality of the products that cannot be grown anywhere else in the world. Today’s consumer is used to abundant selection when purchasing just about anything—even building products for their home improvement projects. Thanks to eye-opening reports, like the ABC News “Made in America” series from 2011, the trend is shifting to more awareness of the product’s origins and a preference for items original to America. For example, Walmart has a $50 billion “Buy American” campaign for things made and grown in the
HOMEGROWN California redwood decking can be the perfect centerpiece of “Buy American” sales efforts. (All photos courtesy CRA)
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Building Products Digest
March 2013
U.S. that boost our economy and quality of life. One example of quality that’s uniquely American: redwood. This entire species, Sequoia sempervirens, is grown, harvested and manufactured along a strip of Northern California coast. Redwoods have grown here since before the first settlers set foot on this land. Thanks to the strictest forest management standards, our member companies proudly nurture and grow the most protected commercial timber species in the world. Moreover, they plant more trees than they harvest, ensuring there will be redwood trees both to enjoy and harvest for future generations. Indeed, the names of the member mills of the California Redwood Association read like a map of our beautiful state: Big Creek Lumber Co., Humboldt Redwood Co., The California Redwood Co., Mad River Lumber, Mendocino Forest Products, Schmidbauer Lumber Co. Each business, like their products, is proudly Californiagrown and connects its corporate identity with the state, county, local watercourse, or well-known local family. The people who grow redwood are not only proud of where it’s grown, but its quality and eco-friendliness. The hardiness and natural benefits of redwood make it an ideal material for outdoor living. Other manmade products market themselves as equal to the task, but is it really true, or just marketing? That’s the question we found ourselves asking as some composite/plastic decking alternatives came to market promoting their supposed environmental qualities. So we commissioned a Life Cycle Analysis study comparing redwood decking to composite decking. To read an executive summary of the LCA study, visit www.rootedintruth.org. The results clearly show that the energy needed to manufacture and transport composite decking has a huge environmental cost in terms of carbon footprint or global warming potential when compared to naturally grown and American-made redwood decking. When a customer asks what the differences are, what sort of return they will see on their investment of a new Building-Products.com
deck when choosing a naturally grown product over something man-made, I’d humbly argue that redwood has a huge edge on new, relatively-untested products. Grown in one of the world’s healthiest forest systems, redwood is decay-resistant and easy to work with. A renewable resource, recyclable (unlike composite decking), redwood absorbs and traps carbon dioxide even after harvesting and milling. It’s also naturally resistant to warping and shrinking, meets strict California fire codes, and is easy to maintain and restore. Redwood enhances the natural beauty so many people love about their own surroundings. And the cherry on top: originally American. American-made redwood is also superior to natural wood that is shipped in from long distances. Though some consumers might feel the pull of exotic or imported hardwoods, redwood is the natural choice. Species such as ipé or other tropical hardwoods travel thousands of miles to be installed in an American backyard. Even species of cedar from Canada or China, or radiata pine from
New Zealand, take a backseat to redwood in quality and eco-friendliness. There is simply no excuse for someone not to buy redwood. The economic and environmental benefits make a beautiful product all the more attractive to anyone who embraces a “Buy American” mentality. – Charlie Jourdain is president of the California Redwood Association. Reach him at charlie@calredwood.org or (888) CAL-REDWOOD.
Building-Products.com
March 2013
Building Products Digest
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INDUSTRY Trends Green Building with Cypress
Cypress is earning points with architects
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OCATED AT A BUSY intersection in downtown Raleigh, the North Carolina Chapter of the American Institute of Architects’ new Center for Architecture and Design is the firstever AIA chapter headquarters built from the ground up. Clad in cypress and other locally available materials, the 12,000-sq. ft. building also is a flagship for the future of sustainable design. It meets design standards set by AIA’s Committee on the Environment
(COTE), as well as the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program at the Platinum level—the highest level of recognition. Architect Frank Harmon said he deliberately emphasized building materials that are sustainable and that reflect the history and heritage of the Tarheel State. Included in that mix is locally sourced cypress—used on the center’s southern and northern
facades—as well as native zinc and stone. “Cypress is readily available in North Carolina, and its appearance is warm, friendly, and familiar,” said Harmon. “The cypress on this new, modern building’s exterior is the same species of wood that’s been used for generations to build shrimp boats on the Carolina coast.” Harmon became familiar with cypress as a teenager, when he began studying Frank Lloyd Wright’s archi-
AMERICAN INSTITUTE of Architects’ new regional center in Raleigh, N.C., demonstrates a sustainable way to build, with local materials. All photos courtesy Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association
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Building Products Digest
March 2013
Building-Products.com
NEW CENTER hosts events for the public, ranging from art classes for youth to lectures on energyefficient home improvements.
tecture. “Wright was a master at using natural, unfinished cypress in his iconic houses—inside and out,” he said. “He used cypress like Rembrandt used oils, except Wright’s canvas was architecture.” By specifying cypress, Harmon did more than honor a native building product. He also equipped the center with a durable cladding that will provide decades of service and good looks. “Used in siding applications, cypress will easily last 100 years with proper care and maintenance,” he noted. Unlike composite materials or pressure-treated wood, cypress is naturally durable thanks to cypressene, a preservative oil in the wood that makes it naturally resistant to decay, insects, and other damaging elements. “Cypress will weather beautifully over the years, even in a harsh, salty coastal climate,” said Harmon. With abundant and readily available materials such as cypress at their disposal, Harmon believes that architects are moving towards more environmentally responsible designs. And as the country continues to recover from the recession, Harmon says design and construction methods are changing. “We won’t be building in the same wasteful ways,” he explained. “With new emphasis on alternative energy and sustainable design, the AIANC center demonstrates a new way to build. It is a flagship for green architecture in North Carolina, and a blueBuilding-Products.com
print that can be adapted across the country.” Other green features of the impressive facility include a geothermal heating and cooling system, a rainwater collection system, and efficient water and light fixtures. The building is also oriented to take advantage of
passive ventilation and daylighting, while an overhanging roof provides shade in the summer. Harmon views the facility as a monument to his profession’s commitment to sustainability and to the perseverance of his colleagues throughout the building industry. “This was a really bold gesture— maybe the boldest in the country. It was built during the recession, as a gesture of faith and belief in what we do.” The new facility transformed what was formerly an unused and awkward piece of land in downtown Raleigh into a people center that is encouraging business and residential development. It also hosts events for the public, ranging from art classes for youth to lectures on energy-efficient home improvements. “The center is a compelling example for responsible revitalization of the cores of towns and cities across our state,” said Harmon. “It demonstrates sustainable urban development and puts Raleigh on the map as a leader in this endeavor.” For more information on the many uses of cypress, visit the Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association at www.cypressinfo.org.
CYPRESS is readily available in North Carolina and its appearance is warm, friendly and familiar. March 2013
Building Products Digest
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COMPETITIVE Intelligence By Carla Waldemar
Indiana dealer hits refresh button
DEALERS’ staff was supportive of—and flexible during—Dye Lumber’s makeover into a full-service home center, including (l-r, front row) Lori Clark, Becky Myers, Kathy Polak; (back row) Dexter Knoll, inventory mgr. Matt Kiser, store mgr. Denny Tyler, and owner Art Dragoo.
T
HE VERDICT’S NOT
in yet. Debate is still raging among social scientists over the power of heredity vs. environment in forming one’s life. Why do we do what we do? Is it in the genes or in the training? Either way, Art Dragoo’s future was pre-determined from the get-go. His great-grandfather owned a lumberyard. The one that Art grew up in the Indiana countryside—Dye Home Lumber, a yard since 1880—was purchased by his grandfather in 1924, from an owner on the other side of Art’s family tree. Art, himself, put in plenty of face time with a broom and sawdust before heading out into the future to work in banking and sales. Bet you can guess what’s coming. In 1998, after 12 years in the big city
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Building Products Digest
(well, Fort Wayne), a longstanding general manager of the lumber operation retired, and the call of heredity (or was it, early environment?) proved too strong to resist. Art stepped back in. “It was a good fit; I like to work in a small business and was looking for an opportunity to take charge of one of my own,” he confesses. Not so small by then, however. In 1930 a second yard had been added in Royal Center, then a third in 1946 when his grandfather (who died in 1961) broke ground for the Monticello store, today headquarters of the three-yard operation, all about 20 to 30 minutes apart. Art wasn’t a man to march in place. In 2001, he relocated the Monticello operation to a new, 12March 2013
acre site across the road from a Super WalMart, swapping what he looks back on as a “poor location, stuck in a residential district that had grown up around it” to prime time on a U.S. highway. Smart move. But that was then, and this is ten years later. “Time to freshen up and look at our inventory and product mix,” he resolved, and with a little prod from his man at Do it Best, who stepped in to study the surrounding market and advise on product mix, the 10,000-sq. ft. store received a makeover worthy of a TV show. He added 5,000 new products, such as home-décor must-haves like vanity tops and kitchen countertops. He expanded the plumbing, electrical and paint lines. He launched a toolrental service, aimed at offering convenience to his roster of pros and save them a time-consuming drive. “Plus, there are two lakes nearby, and the owners of those summer homes come in here, too,” Art adds. Contractors have always been the mainstay of Dye’s accounts, but, especially in these wizened times, maybe eggs belong in other baskets, too—like, those on the arms of women. “I heard, ‘Women don’t like lumberyards’”—think, dark and dusty, a maze of crowded aisles with no roadmap—a frat house for the good ol’ boys who knew the secret handshake. So goodbye, lumberyard; hello, home center. Art changed—okay, dramatically redesigned—his storefront and, especially, its signage, so that now folks bombing along the highway can spot Building-Products.com
ONE-THIRD of the Monticello store’s floor space was converted to kitchen, bath and home decor displays to appeal to consumers.
cues that spur them to swerve into the parking lot. “We also moved the contractor sales counter from the front to the back of the store, so the entrance is less intimidating for retail shoppers,” staffed with friendly people ready to talk a lady through her project. Paint’s up front, now, too, paired with other home-improvement vignettes to motivate a re-do. “We re-lit the store so that it’s noticeably brighter. And we actually reduced shelving by 25%, creating room for displays and taller fixtures, laid out more efficiently. The staff is ready to spot someone needing help. We didn’t have to retrain them, but we did add two more people, one from another store plus a plumbing-supply guy.” But the question is, is it working? “Cash sales are now a larger percent (not larger gross, of course) than contractors’ accounts,” Art says. “We had a good holiday season. But since Christmas, with the additions in kitchen and bath and countertops, that business has just ignited! People are coming in, getting quotes. There’s not a lot of new construction in this recession, but homeBuilding-Products.com
owners are sprucing up, replacing a roof, adding a deck, creating a new look without destroying the budget.” Contractors are on hand, happy to inhale the work. And in turn, they appreciate the new tool rental service, the free delivery. (“A rarity!” Art notes, adding, “We found a lot of resistance to a $10 fee for delivering a handful of boards.”) Free estimates and design service, too. Hours have not been expanded, but then, they probably don’t need to be because Dye keeps the lights on until 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Dye’s 12 employees surprised their boss by cheerleading the project, just when he’d been clenching his teeth in anticipation of grumbles over the chaos. “They weren’t afraid of the inconvenience of the store being torn apart; in fact, they thought it was a lot of fun. They stepped up to the plate and appreciated that the remodel offered a lot more stability for all of us.” Even Mike, a gentlemen hired by Art’s grandfather back in the 1940s. He’d retired after 54 years, but, Art says, “I called him back to help with screen and glass repairs, and he’s here five days a week. He’s the first one to offer suggestions and new ideas.” Art’s two other stores are benefiting, too. They can send customers to Monticello’s showroom or to pick up items that are out of inventory. And Dye’s increased advertising and marketing campaigns benefit them, too. Art uses circulars, newspaper and radio ads to draw newcomers. He used direct mail to send out a 100-page catalog—“an expensive piece, but so good for us—lots of feedback from new customers, who come in saying, ‘I had no idea….,’” he testifies. A grand opening drew hordes of first-timers, too. “We got great response. We also did a promotion that gave away a $1,000 shopping spree, for which anyone in all three locations could register. Got a free newspaper article and a photographer out for that one, too. “We also sponsor events, like our contractor appreciation lunch in December. We offer training sessions, too, such as seminars on building-code changes or vendors’ demos of new products. Although a website is still in the making, Dye is already active on Facebook. “Those users are not my contractors,” Art has to laugh. But they’re the customers of the future— “a whole, new market, that’s for sure”—and the outreach is free. “We post employees’ photos and promotions, such as on April 1, “April Fool April Tool,” offering 20% off with the mention of the announcement (50% discount for anyone wearing a propeller beanie!). Another unconventional promo again cost nearly nothing. Art has stationed a giant, 12-ft. Adirondack chair in front of the building, right across the road from WalMart. “People stop to take their pictures in it” and then, of course, proceed to wander through the aisles. The moral of the story is pretty clear: When times are slow, use those moments to spruce up your offerings, refresh your image, and call on creative, rather than costly, new ways to spread the word. Then, you’re ready for take-off: 2013, here we come! Carla Waldemar cwaldemar@comcast.net March 2013
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OLSEN On Sales By James Olsen
Rapport is king
T
to someone, anything—a car, a load of lumber, an idea—the buyer must trust and like us. As salespeople, we are asking for customers’ trust. We are asking for their money. Their job performance and their business’s performance are influenced by the strength of their relationship with us. Sales demands that we become experts at rapport building. On the phone or in person, we must have a smile on our face. I’m not talking about a Bozo-the-Clown type of smile. Use your natural smile. If you are a smile-once-a-year type of person, use that one. If you find it difficult to smile, buy a mirror and put it in front of you (phone sellers only). It is important that we act as if we are enjoying ourselves. Many sellers sound as if they are pushing a bag of rocks up a hill and can’t figure out why the customer doesn’t want to join (have rapport with) them. We can pick up a running chainsaw from one end or the other. The handle is better. The same with humans—use their name. Don’t overdo it, but do it. It’s simple, but it’s magic. Very powerful at introduction and closing. O SELL SOMETHING
Use the “throw-away” comment
Customers often say things that have nothing to do with the business at hand. This is a rapport opportunity. They may not know it, but they want us to follow up. Example: Grumpy customer: “You again. What do you want? I’m busy, tired—slept horribly last night. We got 10 trucks going out this morning and I can’t be messin’ with another salesperson. So, WHAT DO YOU WANT?” Us: “I’ve got some deals that are going to fit your inventory like a glove. Before we get to that, why didn’t you sleep well last night?” Grumpy: “My granddaughter, Isabel, went into the hospital last night with pneumonia. She’ll be okay, but… anyway, what about those deals? They’re probably not worth anything, but what are they?”
Mix and match
Our customers have a rhythm to their speech. We must match them. Volume, speed and tone—serious or light—all matter. When we are in sync with our customers, they will relax. If not, it is impossible to build rapport. They might buy our deal because it is the cheapest, but we are not building a business partnership with this customer. In competitive situations, we will always lose to our rapport-building opponent.
Interruptions kill rapport
Why do salespeople interrupt customers? They are nervous—usually afraid of the no. They think they know what the customer is going to say. If we know what the customer is going to say, even better, relax and make them feel listened to. (People won’t listen until they have “emptied their basket.” Sometimes they will even exhaust themselves to the point where they say something like, “Okay, I’m done. What have you got for me?”) Other hints on interrupting: • Leave a space at the end of the customer’s sentence. Many will restart if we give them a chance. • When the customer interrupts us, stop talking. If they are excited enough to interrupt us, let’s hear them out. • When the customer makes a noise, stop talking. Many people make noises (grumbles, harrumphs, mumbles, etc.) before they begin to speak. • If we interrupt an objection, it is still there, but now we cannot overcome it. The interrupted objection cannot be overcome.
Do not waste rapport—close
When our customers use our name, laugh or smile with us, directly or indirectly tell us something personal, ask questions, or interrupt us (strange but true), rapport is built. And, it is time to start closing. Rapport building and closing is the one-two power combo of the master seller. When customers feel trust, they want to do business with us. Once we have built rapport, ask them to and they will. James Olsen Reality Sales Training (503) 544-3572 james@realitysalestraining.com
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Building-Products.com
GREEN Retailing By Jay Tompt
Networking beyond the green builders
T
when being a green products dealer marked you as being special, idealistic, a pioneer. Whatever your size, you were likely a relatively huge fish in an infinitesimal pond. Today, green, if still a small fraction of GDP, is basically mainstream. It’s a multi-billion dollar industry and enjoys support from national, state and local government policy. Big-box retailers, national chains, multi-generational independents—all but the last-to-change laggards—are stocking at least some green products and are beginning to integrate “green thinking” into their organization’s DNA. So you stock a few green products? Who cares? So does everyone. What makes the difference these days are relationships. Dealers who are well networked in their local green building communities do best. They belong to their local green building association and know the local contractors, architects, remodelers, etc. For dealers not yet so well connected, it’s never too late to get started. Good relationships with the local green building pros are important, but there are other important networks for the well-intentioned dealer. For some major players, relationships with production builders and government procurement may be what’s driving green product sales. For independents, close relationships with their local communities can also confer competitive advantage. Call me idealistic, but I actually think the independent branch of the green home and shelter supply chain can play a leading role in making their local communities greener and more prosperous. Most importantly, dealers and distributors who understand the needs of their local communities—especially in an era of economic instability, rising energy prices, and extreme weather—can help make their local communities more resilient, too. How? By responding with products, materials, education, and support for projects that meet green building guidelines, yes. But also for other kinds of projects that lead to reduction in energy, water and other non-renewable resource use; anticipates, mitigates, and adapts to the effects of extreme weather; supports and strengthens local economic relationships, and contributes to a general increase in local well being. Dealers could be contributing to all of these positives for HERE WAS A DAY
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their local community, and make a fair profit, too. Again, you may ask, “How?” That’s for you and your local community to work out. Start building relationships with local community groups, perhaps even local government agencies, whose goals are also aligned with green building, renewable energy, sustainability, and community resilience. The answers will soon become clear. Many such local groups are affiliated with two national networks worthy of mention here. One is BALLE, the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (www.livingeconomies.org). Their focus is on making local economies strong, sustainable, and resilient through the efforts of networked locally owned businesses working cooperatively to achieve common goals. The second is Transition US (www.transitionus.org), which seeks to mobilize communities to work collectively to promote green and natural building, energy retrofitting, clean energy, and food security, as well as local economic resilience. Wherever you find a Transition group, you’re likely to find loads of practical, “green-it-yourself” projects needing tools and supplies. These groups embrace green building, but in many respects represent the next phase of green thinking, locating green building within a new economics of de-globalization and re-localization. Recent “Made in the USA” campaigns in this industry are a step in that direction, too. And while connecting with green builders in your community will always be good, building relationships with community groups in related movements will set you apart. Jay Tompt Managing Partner Wm. Verde & Associates (415) 321-0848 info@williamverde.com www.williamverde.com Building-Products.com
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Att D A Do Best Corp., numbers about our o iitt B es t C orp., we we believe believe tthese h ese n umbers sspeak peak vvolumes olu m es a bou t o ur ccommitment ommitment tto o ssupporting uppor ting building materials. only tthe he ssuccess uccess of of our our members members in in lumber lumber and a nd b u il d i n g m aterials. In In fact, fac t, we we are are tthe he o nly ccomprehensive, omprehensive, ffully ully integrated integrated LBM LBM buying buying co-op co - op in in the the home home improvement improvement industry. industr y. From From pricing pricing expertise exper tise to to ccompetitive ompetitive drop drop shipment shipment programs programs to to nationwide nationwide partnerships par tnerships with with key key distributors, distributors, it’s it’s all all about a bou t helping h elping our our members members increase increase sales sales and and enhance enhance bottom bot tom line line profits. profits. Put Put these these numbers numbers on on your your side. side.
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CNRG Picks Up Harvey
Central Network Retail Group, Natchez, Ms., has acquired out of bankruptcy W.T. Harvey Lumber, with stores in Columbus, Ga., and Phenix City, Al. Opened in 1863, Harvey will continue to be managed by the founder’s great-great grandson, Bailey Gross.
Hines Reopens Wheaton Yard
US LBM Holdings division Edward Hines Lumber, Buffalo Grove, Il., inked a lease on the former site of F.E. Wheaton Lumber, Wheaton, Il., to open a full-service building supply center and showroom by May.
The property has sat vacant since F.E. Wheaton closed in 2010. The new lumberyard will be managed by Pat Briody, who served as F.E. Wheaton general manager for 28 years.
Wisconsin Dealer Rebrands
Effective April 1, four sister companies—Kiel Building Supply, Kiel; Campbellsport Building Supply, Campbellsport; Berlin Building Supply, Berlin, and Drexel Inc., Brookfield, Wi.—will change their names to Drexel Building Supply. Owner Joel Fleischman said the change will help increase brand awareness throughout the region.
UltraShield Composite Decking
“It’s Too Good To Be Wood”
DEALER Briefs McCoy’s Building Supply
has broken ground on a new 18,000sq. ft. retail store with 22,000-sq. ft. drive-thru lumberyard in Floresville, Tx., for a July opening.
Lynn Lumber, Lynn, Ma., has closed after 67 years and three generations of Kessel family ownership. Rittenhouse Lumber & Millwork, Erdenheim, Pa., lost its cutting
shed in a Feb. 9 fire. The storage structure was originally built in the early 1900s as a trolley stop for an old amusement park.
Aubuchon Hardware shuttered its branch in Bangor, Me. The location had been a hardware store since 1914. SouthEastern Builder’s Supply , Covington, Ga., has been renamed SouthEastern Appliances & More, to encourage more consumer business.
True Value Hardware, Lakefield, Mn., owner Chad Koep is adding a 13,600-sq. ft. branch in Fairmont, Mn. Habitat for Humanity is remodeling H.A. Smith Lumber’s former Farmington Hills, Mi., yard into a ReStore discount LBM outlet. Schreiner Ace Hardware
added a fourth branch Feb. 1 in Worthington, Oh. (Michael Lynch, store mgr.).
True Value Hardware , Gloversville, N.Y., received planning board approval to add a new sign, a 720-sq. ft. display area, and a 1,036sq. ft. storage facility. Lowe’s submitted plans to build a roughly 99,000-sq. ft. store with 28,000-sq. ft. garden center in Dennis, Ma. True Value Hardware & Appliances, Aiken, S.C., received a Preservation Award from the Historic Aiken Foundation for the recent restoration of its 125-year-old building.
Bayou City Lumber, Houston, Tx., now sells rough cedar lumber to commercial and residential customers. 22
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Building-Products.com
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Venerable Indiana Dealer Closing
SUPPLIER Briefs Southern Parallel Forest Products, formed by Richard and Patrick Glazier, will restart the former Bowater Lumber sawmill in Albertville, Al., in May. Deltic Timber Corp. agreed to buy the remaining 50% share in MDF plant Del-Tin Fiber, El Dorado, Ar. Anthony Timberlands is added a second shift at its southern pine sawmill in Bearden, Ar., starting Feb. 4. RoyOMartin has purchased a fourth Coe dryer and second six-deck veneer dryer for its plant in Chopin, La., replacing the last of the facility’s original dryers. Simpson Strong-Tie acquired the TJ Shear Brace line from Weyerhaeuser, to complement its Strong-Wall shear
wall. SST will now handle all shear brace sales, while Weyco continues to distribute the line in its 22 U.S. markets.
ProVia, Sugarcreek, Oh., now offers Heritage manufactured stone from its Heartland siding warehouse in Boone, Ms. Kleer Lumber , Westsfield, Ma., received National Green Building Certification from the NAHB Research Center for its cellular PVC trim products. Deceuninck North America, Monroe, Oh., received code compliance research reports for its Clubhouse decking, Clubhouse Elite railing, and Clubhouse Plus railing.
Williams Do It Best Lumber & Hardware, Niles, In., began a liquidation sale on Valentine’s Day and will close permanently at the end of March. The six-generation business was founded in the late 1800s. According to president Bruce Williams, the store was a victim of the struggling economy and competition from a nearby Lowe’s. “I could have survived one or the other, but not both,� he said. “I don’t see it getting better.� Everything is for sale during the liquidation sale, including inventory, fixtures, equipment, trucks, and the location itself. Former locations in South Bend and Edwardsburg, In., had already been sold, as the company downsized.
Firefighters Hurt in Lumberyard Fire
Five firefighters escaped with minor injuries from a building at Penn Lumber, Baltimore, Md., that collapsed in a Feb. 4 fire. The blaze apparently started on the ground floor of the three-story structure about 6 p.m.—three hours after the employees had gone home for the day. About 100 firefighters battled the inferno, but were forced to retreat when the structure was deemed unsafe. Several were unable to evacuate as the upper stories began to fall and had to be rescued. “There were five firefighters that did suffer some injuries who were actually trapped beneath the lumber, the bricks from this building that actually came down from the second and third floor on top of them,� said Baltimore Fire Department’s Kevin Cartwright.
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ALSC OK’s SP Design Values
Effective June 1, the American Lumber Standard Committee Board of Review has approved the Southern Pine Inspection Bureau’s design value changes for all sizes and grades of visually graded southern pine dimension lumber. “Southern pine producers and their customers are pleased with the ALSC Board of Review’s decision on new design values,� said Cathy Kaake, v.p. of technical marketing for the Southern Forest Products Association, who testified at the ALSC hearing on Jan. 30. “A June 1 effective date provides time for an orderly transition to the new design values.� The intent of a transition period is to minimize project delays and supply chain disruptions by providing time to manage design value changes. Producers and key customer groups should use this period to evaluate and prepare for the potential impact on their businesses. “Throughout this transition period, SFPA will provide both the current design values as well as the ALSCapproved new design values,� Kaake added. Detailed Q&As, as well as span tables based on both current and
the new design values, will be available at SFPA’s www.southernpine.com during the transition period. Following publication of SPIB’s Supplement 13 to the Standard Grading Rules for Southern Pine Lumber, 2002 Edition, the American Wood Council will work with the International Code Council to incorporate the new design values into span tables in the 2015 International Building Code and 2015 International Residential Code. AWC will also develop addenda and other updates to use with new construction designed in accordance with its standards and design tools, as well as recommended revisions to previous code editions.
Employee Suspected in Thefts at Missouri Dealer
A 34-year-old man is facing two felony counts for stealing from his employer, Tanco Lumber, Forsyth, Mo. According to police, Joseph Sanpaolo changed purchase orders and invoice numbers to conceal the thefts. He took business checks from customers for projects, then gave Tanco money orders for several thou-
sand dollars less. The first theft involved $10,500 for doors and windows, but Sanpaolo brought his employer a money order for just $7,500. When a third-party company performing framing work on the project called Tanco, asking why they were paid $2,200 in cash, Sanpaolo reportedly said the client paid the framers directly. The client, meanwhile, reportedly gave a check for $11,500 to Sanpaolo, based on invoices he submitted. After Sanpaolo was fired and the alleged theft was reported to police, he reportedly attempted to collect more than $66,000 from other Tanco customers. According to police, the invoices Sanpaolo attempted to collect on had all of the appropriate information, including costs and items sold, but did not have Tanco Lumber’s name on them. Sanpaolo has been charged with felony theft of greater than $500, but less than $25,000, a Class C felony, and attempted theft of greater than $25,000, also a Class C felony. A criminal summons was issued for Sanpaolo last month, but he was not arrested because of the “white-collar� nature of the crime.
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MOVERS & Shakers Dave Adams, ex-Marvin Concepts, has been named general mgr. of Snavely Forest Products, Dallas, Tx. James Gregory “Greg” Fookes is a new product line specialist and Christine Zizzamia and Christopher Keller new customer service reps in Baltimore, Md. . Chad Byrum, ex-ProBuild, is now general mgr. for Carter Lumber, Meadowlands, Pa. David Cox has been named president of Richmond International Forest Products, Richmond, Va. Joe Brown is the new president of Tampa International Forest Products, Tampa, Fl. Mark Fisher, ex-Builders FirstSource, has joined the sales team at Jones Lumber, Fort Pierce, Fl. Bill Whitener, ex-Mid-South Lumber, is a new account rep for Universal Forest Products, Tampa, Fl. Sean Hastings is now an estimator in Braintree, Ma. Don Camp, ex-Branford Building Supplies, has joined ENAP, New Windsor, N.Y., as a Northford, Ct.based lumber trader. Steve Siemieniewski, ex-McCray Lumber & Millwork, has been named mgr. of Crane Johnson Lumber, Surrey, N.D. Dennis Lentz, ex-Weyerhaeuser, is now general mgr. of the Milwaukee, Wi., sales office of Weekes Forest Products, St. Paul, Mn. Micah Chaney is new to sales at Olympic Forest Products, Charlotte, N.C. Kyle Williams has been appointed mgr.-business development for Holland Southwest, Houston, Tx. Travis Ross is new to Stock Building Supply, Austin, Tx., as millwork manufacturing mgr. Mark Dale has been named general mgr.-log supply & business development for International Forest Products, Foxborough, Ma. Debbie Cain has been named director of business development for Tart Lumber Co., Sterling, Va. Wilson “Chad” Shaver has been appointed executive v.p. of Shaver Wood Products, Cleveland, N.C. Andie Boyd, ex-Brand Vaughan Lumber, is now inside sales coordinator for Nichiha USA, Norcross, Ga. Mike Baker has joined the outside sales force at Zeeland Lumber & Supply, Kalamazoo, Mi.
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Michael Tyson, ex-D.R. Horton, is new to EWP sales at 84 Lumber, Mount Pleasant, S.C. Brian Patterson is a new mgr. trainee in Fairless Hills, Pa. Rick Brignac is now in lumber sales at Westervelt Co., Tuscaloosa, Al. John Schincariol, ex-Central Michigan Hardwoods, has been named director of lumber sales & marketing for Besse Forest Products Group, Gladstone, Mi. Stephen Szilagyi has been promoted to supply chain executive for Lowe’s Cos., Mooresville, N.C. Michael Jones is new as chief merchandising officer. Dave Treinen, ex-Timber Roots, is new to outside sales at Silver Line Windows. He is based in Menahga, Mn. Kirk Yoggy, ex-BlueLinx, is new to Oldcastle, Atlanta, Ga., as sales development mgr. Glenn Knowlton has been named president and c.e.o. of Norandex Building Materials Distribution, Hudson, Oh. Paul Giggey, ex-Harvey Building Products, has been appointed v.p. of operations for A&A Window Products, Malden, Ma. Todd Harkness has been promoted to president of the LBM and hardlines division of ECi Software Solutions, Fort Worth, Tx., replacing Scott Stanford, who left after 21 years to pursue other interests. Thomas Lane has been named regional sales mgr. of Mid-Atlantic commercial products at Cox Industries, Newsoms, Va. Beverly Richards was named marketing mgr. for North American sales operations at K NIPEX Tools, Arlington Heights, Il. Stanley Bastek has been promoted to Northeast region mgr. for Atlas Roofing Corp., Atlanta, Ga. Jay Linley replaces him as district mgr. for Georgia. Clay Pruitt is now district mgr. for Ms. and La. Scott Jeffreys was appointed v.p. of sales for Thermal Industries, Pittsburgh, Pa. Zachary Dominique is a new product mgr. at Therma-Tru Doors, Maumee, Oh. William Rice, ex-HW Flooring, is now Northeast territory sales mgr. for Custom Building Products, covering N.Y., N.J., and Ct. Building-Products.com
Ed Mullett has retired as v.p.-operations at ProVia, Sugarcreek, Oh., but will continue part-time spearheading ongoing expansion activities. Keith Yutzy is now v.p.-operations; Craig Mullet, v.p.-corporate care; Brent Mullet, v.p.-information technologies, and Freddie Miller, v.p.-supply chain. Rich Maurer has joined Versatex, as Greenville, S.C.-based Southeastern regional sales mgr. Darren Kennedy is new in Rochester, N.Y., as market development specialist for western N.Y. and Ontario. Dave Bristow is now eastern region sales mgr. at Sellick Equipment, Detroit, Mi., succeeding Colin Sellick, who was appointed process systems mgr. Dan Denny is now a product specialist. Lutha Leahy-Miller is new to sales at Watermill Building Supply, Watermill, N.Y. Michael Golden has been elected to the board of Trex Co., Winchester, Va. Abigail Walls has been named director of communiations for the Michigan Forest Products Council, Lansing, Mi. Rex Easley is the new transportation safety director at Mungus-Fungus Forest Products, Climax, Nv., according to co-owners Hugh Mungus and Freddy Fungus.
Dealers to Help Injured Vets
The National Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association has launched a “Dealers Helping Heroes” program to assist injured military veterans in renovating old homes or building new homes. As severly wounded veterans return to civilian life, they often need help creating a home that will accommodate their particular disability. The federal government provides just $7,000 for a remodel or $64,960 for building a new home. “Servicemen and women suffering with severe injuries deserve homes that will accommodate their new way of life, and I call on lumber dealers to consider adopting a wounded warrior,” said NLBMDA chairman Chuck Bankston, Bankston Lumber, Barnesville, Ga. “Construction supply businesses can make an impact in the lives of military families, and we look forward to working with them.” When veterans are ready to transition home, their names are added to a master list maintained by Helping a Hero (helpingahero.org). Every other week, participating state and regional LBM associations receive a list of veterans and where they are transitioning to. The groups then identify a local dealer willing to “adopt” the veteran and furnish whatever assistance they can to help their building project.
IN Memoriam Edward Wayne Metz, 74, former president of Westall-Chandley Lumber Co., Asheville, N.C., died Feb. 3. In 1986, he teamed with local businessmen Bob Adams, Mal Hopkins, and Perry Bartsch to purchase J.M. Westall Lumber Co., Asheville. He served as president over the next 20 years as the company acquired Johnson-Chandley Lumber, Asheville, and Brevard Lumber, Brevard, N.C. In 2005, he retired and the partners sold the yards to Frank Taylor, who consolidated them into WestallChandley Building Supplies. Luther William Brady Sr., 97, longtime owner of Luther Brady Lumber Co., Crosby, Tx., died Jan. 27. Stanley Louis Buck II, 73, retired former president and owner of Building-Products.com
Crossland Forest Products, Raleigh, N.C., and Allegheny Wood Sales, Willow Grove, Pa., died Feb. 5 from injuries suffered in a fall at his home. William Earl Nelson, 94, former owner of Nelson Lumber Co., Gurnee, Il., died Feb. 4. He served in the the U.S. Army during World War II. Lloyd Domingue, 92, retired owner and operator of Domingue Lumber Co., Scott, La., died Feb. 13 in Scott. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Charles William Hamilton, 83, former owner of Standard Forest Products, Pancake, Pa., died Feb. 2 in Canonsburg, Pa. A U.S. Army veteran, he operated Standard Forest Products for 28 years. March 2013
Building Products Digest
29
MANAGEMENT Tips By Dennis Connelly
Lessons from the tradeshow floor
Are you just riding on visibility?
W
THE tradeshow floor at the recent International Builders Show in Las Vegas, I was excited and stunned. While much of the business world thinks of 2008 as the year that started the big economic downturn, many of us know it started in January 2006, because that’s when we started feeling the effects. But the story’s been changing, and this year brought new excitement to the show. Companies are leaner now—whether it’s operations, administration or sales—but they’re finally growing. And what stunned me about this new growth is that there’s still much anxiety just beneath the veneer of excitement (excuse the pun.) Just past “Everything’s great” and “We’ve got it all figured out now,” not to mention “We’re doing better than last year,” there’s a growing concern and shift in the way that c.e.o.’s are thinking about 2013. I heard these two questions most often: (1) Is our company capable of adding enough new growth to meet corporate objectives? and (2) Can our current sales staff grow and keep pace with the changing market demands? I spoke with a company founder who was genuinely concerned that while his business was growing, so was the market in his space. He had a sinking feeling that he wouldn’t be able to take business from the competition without lowering price. Yes, all boats are being lifted by the new tide, but, he admitted, it’s ultimately not a success formula. In my last article (“Recruiting in the New Sales Environment,” Jan., p. 22), I talked about the shifting sands under ALKING
salespeople and the new, standard skill sets which must come with every hire, including the ability to stand apart from the crowd. With those observations, combined with many executives’ concerns in the building materials industry about growth and people, I spent the second day at the Builders Show talking to the sales staff and management. There were five questions worth sharing with those who will make a living in 2013 selling building materials: How do we know whether sales force improvement is fantasy or reality? Yes, sales are up. But are sales increasing due to organic growth caused by better selling skills, stronger prospecting, perfect positioning statements, insightful problem-solving, needs analysis, thorough qualifying, well-timed proposals, and excellent closing skills? If you aren’t sure, you may be going along for the ride or even being taken for a ride. How do we take business from the competition without lowering price? This is the true test of our ability to stand apart from the competition. To have the customer pay more attention to us than anyone else requires the ability to have a conversation that is more than just “What do you need?” and “How much is your budget?” To gain the full attention of your customer, above all competition, you must have a business discussion where you can drill down to find a hidden or indirect problem which your product will solve. For example, you could think about the price of your decking vs. the lower price of the competitor’s decking. We’re probably good at calculating the cost of their decking problems and tacking it onto their price. But who’s the person dealing with those problems at your customer’s company? What is that person’s regular job? And what is he or she not doing when distracted by and/or dealing with those problems? And, how important is the job that they’re supposed to be doing? And what is that costing you? Now you’re onto a different discussion, which will help you stand out from the crowd. And now your higher price is less important. How can we fend off the competition’s full court press on our existing accounts without meeting their price?
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This is an account management problem. Having long-standing accounts can lead to complacency. If you’re like most LBM salespeople, you have hundreds of potential customers in your territory, but maybe 10 of them account for most of your sales. Ever seen a basketball team up by 30 points and still lose the game? The Celtics lost to the Knicks that way in a 1986 game. You could see the Celtics’ meltdown and if you’re a fan, it put a pit in your stomach. They stopped having fun. They stopped taking chances. They stopped playing to win and starting playing not to lose. Don’t do that with your customers. Once each quarter, act like you’re competing for their business all over again. Can our salespeople leverage relationships with existing customers to sell the entire product line? The answer is that some can, but most cannot. The follow-up questions are: (a) Can those who cannot do that, learn to do it? (b) Are there hidden issues causing them to get in their own way? (c) Is the little voice in their head telling them that their customer needs to diversify, that we can’t be all things to all people, that we’re good at some things and not others, or is there another excuse you’re hearing? If the products you’re carrying are right for the market, then selling skills are standing in the way of growing sales within your customer base. What are we getting out of this show? That’s a great question. Some are gleaning much from it; others see little result. The difference was in the staff’s mindset and understanding as to why they were there. If the purpose was merely to be visible and support for the industry, then there was commonly disappointment with the show. When people with whom I spoke were actively looking for new qualified opportunities, they had a different experience. Without an active, thoughtful show strategy, the default of using it as “visibility” results in just the opposite effect. Call it the Denial = Visibility model. The denial comes from the preconceived notion that you cannot really sell at the Show. But you could have, and that’s a topic for another article. – Dennis Connelly is a building materials veteran and sales development consultant with Kurlan & Associates. Reach him at dconnelly@kurlanassociates.com. Building-Products.com
Call It The Fun Side of Cedar. Who says siding has to be all about straight lines and uniform color? Specialty profiles of Western Red Cedar siding such as Haida Skirl add personality and individuality to your home. And that’s something no cement or plastic siding can do. Western Red Cedar gives you natural durability, long lasting street appeal and surprisingly little maintenance. Which leaves more time for the fun things in life. Make the right choice for your business, your customers and your environment. Western Red Cedar offers dependable performance, unmatched beauty and superior environmental credentials to composite decking and other man-made products. The choice of discerning builders and consumers alike, Western Red Cedar adds warmth, character and value to projects and significant returns to your business.
1.866.778.9096 www.wrcla.org To learn more about Haida Skirl or to place an order, contact us at 604-437-3434 or info@haidaforest.com
www.haidaforest.com THIS AD WAS DEVELOPED AS PART OF THE WRCLA’S JOINT PROMOTION PROGRAM. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE WRCLA.
March 2013
Building Products Digest
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NEW Products Thermo-Ash Decking
Thermally modified hardwood decking from Thermory USA uses no chemicals, glues or rainforest materials. Sizes are 1x6 and 5/4x6. Its hidden-clip system requires no drilling and ensures perfect spacing, using stainless steel hardware and machined side grooves. The wood ages naturally to silver/gray, or a UV deck oil can be used to maintain its rich brown tones.
THERMORYUSA.COM (847) 256-8828
Versatile PVC Trim
Versatex WP4 is a PVC alternative to conventional pine trim. Sold in 18’ lengths, it’s ideal for wainscoting, soffits, porch ceilings, and a score of other interior and exterior applications. The product features an authentic V-groove center match, with a 3/4”x5-7/16” profile. Installation requires ordinary carpentry skills, tools and fasteners.
VERSATEX.COM (724) 857-1111
Easy-Care Gutters
The Boston Gutter System from Intex Millwork offers the appearance of wood, but not the maintenance. The extruded PVC gutters come in 10- and 20-ft. lengths, with a bracket system to hang and float. Splice kits for inside and outside corners, end caps, and copper downspouts are also available.
INTEXMILLWORK.COM (866) 293-4100
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Building Products Digest
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Building-Products.com
Dothan, AL 800-633-0906
Wholesale Wood Products
Birmingham, AL 800-421-6970
www.wholesalewoodonline.com
Need Specialty Lumber? Plantation Cypress™
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Building-Products.com
March 2013
Building Products Digest
33
Water Diversion for Decking
CertainTeed’s new water-diversion system creates dry areas under decks for entertaining or storage. UnderShield features 6’x16” vinyl panels with that can be installed to deck joists with stainless steel hardware. A concealed clip and grid system diverts water to the edge of the deck. Panels come in two styles—chamfer or beaded— and three colors: colonial white, sterling gray, and savannah wicker.
CERTAINTEED.COM (800) 233-8990
Patio Doors with Style
French-style vinyl patio doors from Skyreach L&S Extrusions combine beauty and engineering. The Boulevard series comes 6’8” high, in 5’, 6’, and 8’ widths. A variety of multi-style combinations, custom sizes, and custom finishes are also available.
SKYREACH.COM (866) 903-8800
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Building-Products.com
Perennial T&G Porches
Corner with a View
The Ultra series corner-window unit from Kolbe offers unobstructed views without unwanted solar heat. Inside, the windows are trimmed with a choice of wood species, including FSC-certified. The outside is framed with clear-anodized aluminum. Each side spans more than 10’x10’, with integrated awnings that open with motorized operators.
Perennial Wood tongue-and-groove porch flooring uses TruLast technology that decreases shrinking, selling, cupping, and warping. Three uncoated profiles are offered: 3/4”x3-1/8” and 7/8”x3-1/3” finished face in 8’, 10’, and 12’ lengths, and 7/8”x4-7/8” finished face in 8’ and 10’ lengths. Produced from southern pine, the product is grown and processed in the U.S.
KOLBE-KOLBE.COM
PERENNIALWOOD.COM (800) 530-7495
(715) 842-5666
Size does matter. Douglas Fir up to 20” x 20” x up to 40’ Cedar 16” x 16” x up to 32’
• Now stocking Redwood • Richardson Timbers is a leader in custom millwork & manufacturing of customized timbers, with capabilities of delivering products throughout the U.S. Serving the construction industry for over 60 years, by taking the spirit of the old and combining it with the leading technology of today, Richardson Timbers is able to offer wholesale products with unparallelled service and quality.
Richardson Timbers
toll free (877)
318-5261
phone (214)
358-2314
fax (214)
www.richardsontimbers.com Building-Products.com
March 2013
358-2383
Since 1949
Building Products Digest
35
Get the Edge on OSB
Hardwood Edge from Weyerhaeuser reportedly is the first OSB floor panel specifically engineered for use under hardwood floors. Panels have built-in endgrooves to eliminate standing water and reduce water absorption, plus a
proprietary edge seal to reduce edge swell and sanding. Each 4’x8’ panel is 23/32” thick, has a printed fastener template, and is fully sanded.
HARDWOODEDGE.COM (888) 453-8358
PVC Fencing
Enduris’ low-maintenance Endwood cellular PVC fence has a rich, hand-stained look with rough-sawn texture and variegated woodgrain patterns. It can be assembled onsite with 6” pickets, either squareedged or dog-eared. Two 1” circular voids accommodate a stabilizing steel tube in the center rail. Choices include three colors, four post systems, a 4”x4” vinyl post sleeve, a 5”x5” routed post, and two metal post options.
ENDURIS.COM (888) 329-7428
Your source for
LARGE TIMBERS, SPECIALTY PRODUCTS, & REMANUFACTURING • Redwood • Western Red Cedar • Southern Cypress • Douglas Fir • Ipé • Abaco
Building Products Digest
Vermont Natural Coatings’ PolyWhey Heirloom Wipe-on finish offers the look and feel of traditional hand-rubbed finishes. Made with whey protein, the non-yellowing finish is easy to apply on cabinets, doors, and other wood.
VERMONTNATURALCOATINGS.COM (802) 472-8700
877.533.7695 36
Natural Finishing
March 2013
Building-Products.com
IBS 2013 Photos by BPD
INTERNATIONAL BUILDERS SHOW was staged by the National Association of Home Builders Jan. 22-24 in Las Vegas, Nv. [1] Mandi Mollom, Mark Davis, Alex Yoshida, Amy Warren. [2] Bob Sloper, Morris Douglas. [3] Mark Reum, Kelli Bergen. [4] Alex Hines, Neal Shunk, Darrell Strandlee, Stephen McNally. [5]
Larry Burkholder, Larry Boyts, Will Lepire. [6] Jim Wolf, Rick Kapres, Pam Corn, Matt Cullen, Matt Rossi. [7] Tim Folster, Mike Booth, Mike Pidlisecky. [8] Stan Kao, Jackson Chen, Jennifer Wei, Greg Schumacher. [9] Randy Engh, Steve Horvath. [10] Chris Salvador, Dustin Schroeder. [11] Shawn Herrington,
Scott Van Gonten, Jessica Navascues, Steven Kelly. [12] Tony Saad, Jean-Marc Dubois. [13] Brian Orchard, Jay Lattanzio. [14] Craig Young, Dan Beaty, Rick Sanders, Chuck Rigoni. [15] Tom Zimmerman, Jason Quenzer, Patrick Day. (More photos on next two pages)
IBS 2013 Photos by BPD
MORE IBS in Las Vegas, Nv. (continued from previous page): [1] Marv Askey, Bill Reavely. [2] Barry Breede, Matt Yaun. [3] Alan Oakes, Yolanda Marquez, Mike Moran, Lauren Booth. [4] Cliff Stokes, Melissa Morinelli, Ken Goodnough. [5] Jon Bailey, Wayne Milhon. [6] Flora Masciadrelli, John Cook, Jack Delaney.
[7] A.J. Jesiolowski, Scott Cathcart, Jim Miller. [8] Patrick Slarko, Joe Biss, C.W. St. John. [9] Randy Richards, Remington Richards. [10] Wesley Blair, Viviane Peixoto, Dan Ivancic. [11] Betsy Bendix, Carol Kelly, Edie Wilson. [12] Bart Bender, Trina Turcan. [13] Jean Desautels, Carol Lyn Groce, Chris Terrels.
[14] George McCart, Arden Fullen, John Joubert. [15] Patrick Danieu, Doug Reid. [16] Cesar Aguirre, Joel Cone, Richard Lam. [17] Morgan Raganyi, Mark Novak, Robert Simon, Frank Butterfield. (More photos on next page)
IBS 2013 Photos by BPD
MORE IBS (continued): [1] Todd Johnson, Kim Pohl, Len Kasperski. [2] Shannon Mott, Juliet Depina, DeeDee Graham. [3] Scott Klemroth, Tammy & Glenn Cosper. [4] Jim Solic, Brent Gwatney. [5] Don Danka,
Tim Schrader, Tom Fitzgerald. [6] Uli Walther, Chuck Casey. [7] Barb Stewart, Leda Johnson. [8] Valerie Misa, Doug Morse, Craig Jacks, Jennifer Faines. [9] Steve Barth. [10] Brian Stuk, Jim Seeger.
NRLA EXPO Photos by BPD
NORTHEASTERN Retail Lumber Association hosted its annual LBM Expo Feb. 6-8 in Boston, Ma. [1] Mike LoPresti, Kate Weissmann, Antoinette Proal. [2] John Bumby, Bruce Faut. [3] Danny Morini, Rob Reber, Tim Devine. [4] David Ondich, Rigo Lora. [5] Brad Finck, Pat Fitzgerald. [6] Andy Faircloth, James Marston, John Tumino, Charlie Risinger. [7] David Jeffers, Leonard Testa, Jennifer Burroughs, Dave Sieman, Tony Stevens. [8] John Niedzwieck. [9] Dave Kuiken, Calvin Wahl. [10]
Craig Myers, John Smith, Sheila Michaud. [11] Jackson Chen, Anthony Disanto. [12] Gina Duffy, Brett Kelley, Chris Johnson. [13] Dan Keith, John Fijalkowski, Rob Marusic, Mike Kelly. [14] Greg Georgette, Kathy Klassen. [15] Tom Glauber, Joshua Kaye. [16] Frank Czerwinski, Helene Feinberg, Ray Zamloot. [17] Jim Seeger, Marc Maniaci. [18] Pete Zimmerman, Patrick Healy, Steven Altshuler. [19] Tom Zimmerman, Mike Gessinger, Jason Quenzer. (More photos on next two pages)
NRLA EXPO Photos by BPD
NRLA EXPO (continued from previous page): [1] Hans Ward, Bernie Nugent, Vincent Micale. [2] David Mitchell, Caroline Kendall, Patrick Lenihan. [3] Larry Matkovich, Uli Walther. [4] Scott Green, Kevin O’Connor, Dan Paige. [5] Dave Zappone, Dave Durst. [6] John Garth, Jack Curry, Rick Palmiter. [7] Mark Hewitt, Kurt Schluter, Greg Gallagher. [8] Matt Betz, Peter Krihak, Bob Fitzpatrick. [9] Jim Dineen. [10] John Smart, Matt Pedrone, Bert Hafley.
[11] Steve Holt, Duffy Waters. [12] Jean-Marc Dubois. [13] Steve Hudson, Tom Jenkins. [14] John Ritz, Peter Kinney, Jim Robbins. [15] Brooke Meeker, Kristine Michaud. [16] Ryan Druke, Ed Druke, Josh Druke. [17] Scott McGill, Rob Ankner, Lesslie Montgomery. [18] Clint Darnell, Rob Holden. [19] Jennifer McElreavy, Lance Humphrey, Tom McElreavy. [20] Cliff & Colleen Coleman, Jim Pelowski. (More photos on next page)
NRLA EXPO Photos by BPD
NRLA enjoyed a spirited Expo, despite a coming blizzard forcing cancellation of the final day (continued from previous two pages): [1] Steve Burdick, Jim Miller. [2] Jim Folan, Darrell Hungerford. [3] Frank Jolly, Toby Sonder. [4] Bill Christou, Mark Hildebrand. [5] William Long, Ray Schow, Jeff Bittner. [6] Jack Dalton, Tony Moscogiuri, Ken Bernstein. [7] David Catlett, Win Smith. [8] Al DeVasto, Leo Tierney, Bill Hutt, Jim Bangs, Rick Kapres. [9] Stuart Dimery. [10] John McGill, Tara Murray.
[11] Matt Wright, Harry Garabedian, William Zubert, Greg Noga. [12] Dan Plouffe, Robert Acierno. [13] Tom Truskoski, Jeffrey Leonard. [14] Rich Franklin, Lumber Jack Bryant, Peter Berdan, Jason Liebnitsky. [15] James Miele. [16] Kevin Thomas, Dana Soderberg. [17] Steve Banahan, Jeff Easterling. [18] Andy & Cindy Sinnott, Josh Goodman, Robin Gardner, David Gaudreau, Jason Rastad, William Giguerre. [19] Scott Boates. [20] Glenn Canino, Bill Finnegan.
ASSOCIATION Update Lumbermen’s Association of Texas will honor Chuck Pool, Main Street Lumber, Denison, Tx., as Lumberman of the Year during its April 18-20 convention at Westin La Cantera Resort, San Antonio, Tx. Southern Building Material Association named Talbert Building Supply, Roxboro, N.C., as its Dealer of the Year during its recent show. Fortress Wood Products, Martinsville, Va., was named Supplier of the Year.
Wharf Hotel, Boston, Ma. Presentations will include Charles Trevor, program coordinator for Europe/Middle East at the American Softwoods Program, discussing potential opportunities; Paul Jannke, Forest Economic Advisors, with an economic forecast for the coming year, and the 2nd annual Sustainable Versatility Design Awards, handed out by Robert Robillard, editor of A Concord Carpenter. During the closing dinner-dance,
the association will unveil a new short video, Lumber & Sons, a special feature on mill families in the Northeast. National Hardwood Lumber Association will hold its first Chinese inspector training class July 15 to Aug. 15 at NHLA headquarters in Memphis, Tn. Taught by veteran instructors Rich Hascher and Randy Wilson, assisted by Chinese language interpreters, the Monday-through-Saturday summer school will include mill visits and networking opportunities with North American suppliers.
Eastern Building Material Dealers Association is sponsoring a MidAtlantic Young Dealers roundtable moderated by Sandy Sawyer May 1-2 at the DoubleTree Hotel, Somerset, N.J. The hotel is adjacent to the Garden State Exhibit Center, where the IDEAS LBM Trade Show begins May 2. Michigan Lumber & Building Materials Association has launched a new “buy local” program, represented by the Lo1 symbol. Kentucky Building Materials Association holds its 108th annual convention and product expo April 2527 at Galt House Hotel, Louisville. Mid-America Lumbermens Association is sponsoring an estimating workshop April 3 in Kansas City, Mo. Kentucky Forest Industries Association hosts its annual meeting April 3-5 at Embassy Suites, Lexington, Ky. North American Wholesale Lumber Association has scheduled its annual leadership conference for April 28-30 at Innisbrook Golf Resort & Spa, Tarpon Springs, Fl. Presentations will include “The LBM Dealer Market: What Now and What Next?” by Paul Hylbert, Kodiak Building Partners; a discussion of business and economic trends affecting the wholesale distribution supply chain by Paul St. Germain, co-author of Facing the Forces of Change, and an economic forecast by Paul Jannke, Forest Economic Advisors. Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association will celebrate its 80th anniversary during its April 4-6 annual convention at Marriott Long Building-Products.com
SHERWOOD LUMBER, Islandia, N.Y., hosted its annual customer appreciation dinner at Boston’s Towne Stove & Spirits Feb. 7 during the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association’s LBM Expo. [1] John Kelly, Joe Benogche,
Andrew Goodman. [2] John Ferri, Rena Goodman. [3] Andy Sinnott, Beattie, Dave Beattie. [4] Robin Gardner, Dennis Bott, Nancy Aguiar, Melissa J. Borrack.
Your Eastern & Midwest Redwood Specialist
REDWOOD DECKING THE NATURAL ALTERNATIVE
Full Range & Large Inventory Reman to Specific Patterns • Clear All Heart • Clear Mixed Grain • Construction Heart • Decking Pattern Stock • Bevel Siding • Beaded Ceiling We Ship by the Unit or by the Piece Family Owned & Operated for Over 60 Years
CHICAGO SUBURBAN LUMBER SALES 800-341-6485
7459 Franklin St., Forest Park, IL 60130
Fax: 708-771-7391 • Email: joe@chicagosuburbanlumber.com
www.chicagosuburbanlumber.com March 2013
Building Products Digest
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Lumber Wholesalers Poised to Emerge from Darkness
The wholesale lumber industry is turning the corner, following more than five years of declines, according to a new forecast by IBISWorld. “Residential construction is the largest source of demand for lumber wholesalers,” said IBISWorld analyst Sean Windle. “Therefore, with the collapse of the housing bubble in 2007 and subsequent recession, demand for industry products fell significantly.” From 2008 to 2013, lumber wholesalers’ revenue fell an average of 2.0% per year to $83.5 billion. But, buoyed by recent renewed growth in housing, revenue is expected to rise 7.5% in 2013. Profit margins for the average lumber wholesaler have remained stagnant, although profitability should experience an uptick in 2013, thanks to strong demand and strong growth in lumber prices. “Falling profit margins and fewer sales forced some operators to exit the lumber wholesaling industry,” Windle said.
IBISWorld estimates the number of wholesale lumber businesses in the U.S. declined 0.5% annually over the last five years to 5,895 in 2013. Employment also fell, an average 2.9% per year to 118,911 workers.
2012, a nine-year market chronology, and an international section with price histories, trade-weighted dollar information, and export volumes by species and destination.
Lumber Directories Released
An employee at Homan Lumber, Elkhart, In., is recovering after a Feb. 15 milling accident. Tommy Woods was seriously injured when safety guards on the machine he was working on came loose, allowing a piece of wood to shoot out and hit his face. According to his sister, Woods sustained a broken nose, jaw and cheekbone, as well as two injured vertebrae, damaged arteries, and multiple other breakages around his face. Woods has already undergone reconstructive surgery, but will have to undergo several more. A feeding tube was also installed, to help him eat and drink. He will probably be hospitalized for several months. He had worked at Homan for about a year.
Random Lengths has released the latest editions of two leading reference guides for the North American softwood forest products industry. The 2013 Big Book’s 832 pages contain 4,158 listings of U.S., Canadian, and offshore softwood companies and 16, 063 personnel—including addresses, phone and fax numbers, email addresses and websites, company profiles, and other valuable information. The 2012 Yearbook features more than 300 pages of data and price histories for the past 11 years for more than 290 key lumber and panel items. Also included are graphs tracking monthly price averages for the past five years, economic data such as housing starts and home mortgage rates for 2009-
CLASSIFIED Marketplace Rates: $1.20 per word (25 word min.). Phone number counts as 1 word, address as 6. Centered copy or headline, $9 per line. Border, $9. Private box, $15. Column inch rate: $55 if art furnished “camera-ready”
Indiana Millworker Injured
(advertiser sets the type), $65 if we set type. Send ad to Fax 949-8520231 or dkoenig@ building-products.com. For more info, call (949) 8521990. Make checks payable to Cutler Publishing. Deadline: 18th of previous month. To reply to ads with private box numbers, send correspondence to box number shown, c/o BPD. Names of advertisers using a box number cannot be released.
HELP WANTED
PRODUCTS FOR SALE
WANTED TO BUY
IDAHO TIMBER is seeking a highly motivated, energetic and experienced lumber salesperson. Duties include selling production of Radius Edge Decking facility and other assigned divisions. Candidate will be responsible for product marketing, sales, new product development, as well as growing and maintaining relationships with regional and national accounts. Position requires self-motivation, excellent communication skills, creativity, teamwork and knowledge of the lumber products industry. Position is in Carthage, Arkansas, and offers competitive benefits including salary (DOE), 401(k), profit sharing, medical insurance, and opportunity for growth with an industry leader. For consideration, please send resume and cover letter to Idaho Timber, Attn.: Rusty Yazdanpour, P.O. Box 37, Carthage, Ar. 71725.
TRI-STATE LUMBER CO.
WE BUY AND SELL PANEL STRIPS
Your Southern Yellow Pine Timber Connection Specializing in 6x6, 6x8, 8x8, 10x10
Plywood, OSB, particleboard and MDF by the truckloads. Lumber Source, Phone (800) 8741953, Fax 888-576-8723, email LumberSource@hotmail.com.
Tel. (662) 862-2125 • Fax 662-862-4900 email jgibson@tristatelumber.net
WANTED TO BUY
WANTED TO BUY
AGGRESSIVE SALES representatives wanted to grow with our 90-year-old company. We are a well-established, family-owned wholesaler looking to expand into new markets. You must be able to demonstrate an existing customer base. Working from your home you will earn the best commissions in the business. Call Jim at (800) 647-6242. The McGinnis Lumber Company, Meridian, Ms.
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Building-Products.com
DATE Book Listings are often submitted months in advance. Always verify dates and locations with sponsor before making plans to attend.
Ohio Construction Suppliers Assn. – April 17-18, installed sales roundtable, Lavonia, Ga.; (614) 267-7817; www.myocsa.org. International Wood Products Assn. – April 17-19, annual convention, Vancouver, B.C.; (703) 820-6696; www.iwpawood.org.
Hardwood Manufacturers Association – March 11, national conference & expo, Charleston Place Hotel, Charleston, S.C.; (412) 244-0440; www.hmamembers.org.
Forest Products Society – April 18-20, North American wood window & door symposium, Roseville, Mn.; www.forestprod.org.
Southern Cypress Manufacturers Assn. – March 11, annual meeting, Charleston, S.C.; (412) 244-0440; www.cypressinfo.org.
Lumbermen’s Association of Texas & Louisiana – April 18-20, annual convention, Westin La Cantera Resort, San Antonio, Tx.; (800) 749-5862; www.lat.org.
WoodWorks – March 12, Wood Solutions Fair, Omni Hotel, Dallas, Tx.; (866) 966-3448; www.woodworks.org. Northwestern Lumber Association – March 12-13, Nebraska lumber dealers convention, Younes Conference Center, Kearney, Ne.; (763) 544-6822; www.nlassn.org. Greenprints – March 13-14, Georgia Tech Research Institute Conference Center, Atlanta, Ga.; (404) 872-3549; www.greenprints.org.
National Kitchen & Bath Association – April 19-21, annual show, New Orleans, La.; (800) 843-6522; www.nkba.org. Peak Auctioneering – April 20, LBM auction, Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, Berea, Oh.; (800) 245-9690; www.peakauction.com. Transload Distribution Assn. – April 22-24, conference, Hilton, Rosemont, Il.; (503) 656-4282; www.transload.org.
Lumbermens Merchandising Corp. – March 13-15, annual meeting, Anaheim, Ca.; (610) 293-7049; www.lmc.net.
Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America – April 23-26 woodworking conference, Marriott Tempe at the Buttes, Tempe, Az.; (443) 640-1052; www.wmma.org.
Emery-Waterhouse – March 15-16, market, Rhode Island Convention Center, Providence, R.I.; (800) 283-0236; emeryonline.com.
Kentucky Building Materials Assn. – April 25-27, convention & expo, Galt House, Louisville, Ky.; (800) 844-1774; kbma.net.
Builder’s Supply Assn. of West Virginia – March 15-17, 100th annual meeting, Greenbrier Resort, White Sulphur Springs, W.V.; (304) 342-2450; www.bsa-wv.com.
Peak Auctioneering – April 27, LBM auction, Marion County Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, In.; (800) 245-9690; peakauction.com.
Peak Auctioneering – March 16, LBM auction, Kane County Fairgrounds, St. Charles, Il.; (800) 245-9690; www.peakauction.com.
North American Wholesale Lumber Association – April 28-30, leadership conference, Innisbrook Resort, Palm Harbor, Fl.; (800) 527-8258; www.lumber.org.
National Lumber & Building Material Dealers Assn. – March 1820, legislative conference & spring meeting, Crystal City Marriott, Washington, D.C.; (800) 634-8645; www.dealer.org.
American Wood Protection Association – April 28-May 1, annual meeting, Sheraton Waikiki, Honolulu, Hi.; (205) 733-4077; www.awpa.com.
Window & Door Manufacturers Assn. – March 18-20, legislative conference, Arlington, Va.; (800) 223-2301; www.wdma.com.
National Association of Home Builders – April 29-May 1, national green building conference, Nashville Convention Center, Nashville, Tn.; (800) 368-5242; www.nahb.org.
JLC Live Show – March 20-23, Rhode Island Conference Center, Providence, R.I.; (800) 261-7769; www.jlclive.com. Mid South Building Material Dealers Association – March 21-23, convention & show, Imperial Palace Resort & Casino, Biloxi, Ms.; (877) 828-3315; www.mbmda.com. Blish-Mize Co. – March 22-23, spring market, Convention Center, Overland Park, Ks.; (800) 995-0525; www.blishmize.com. Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Assn. – March 24-27, annual convention, Tucson, Az.; (703) 264-1690; www.kcma.org. ENAP Inc. – March 25-27, annual meeting & show, Gaylord Palms, Orlando, Fl.; (800) 456-4300; www.enap.com. National Wood Flooring Assn. – April 2-5, conference & expo, Gaylord Texan, Dallas, Tx.; (800) 422-4556; woodfloors.org. Mid-America Lumbermens Assn. – April 3, estimating workshop, Kansas City, Mo.; (816) 561-5323; www.themla.com. Kentucky Forest Industries Assn. – April 3-5, annual meeting, Embassy Suites, Lexington, Ky.; (800) 203-9217; www.kfia.org. International Wood Composites Symposium – April 3-4, Red Lion, Seattle, Wa.; (800) 942-4978; woodsymposium.wsu.edu. Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association – April 4-6, annual convention, Marriott Long Wharf Hotel, Boston, Ma.; (207) 829-6901; www.nelma.org. Peak Auctioneering – April 6, LBM auction, Orange County Fairgrounds, Middleton, N.Y.; (800) 245-9690; peakauction.com. Door & Hardware Institute – April 8-9, executive summit, Las Vegas, Nv.; (703) 222-2010; www.dhi.org. Structural Insulated Panel Association –April 9-11, annual meeting & conference, Loew’s Resort Canyon Spa, Tucson, Az.; (253) 858-7472; www.sips.org. Peak Auctioneering – April 13, LBM auction, Prince William County Fairgrounds, Manassas, Va.; (800) 245-9690; peakauction.com.
ADVERTISERS Index
IDEA File
For more information on advertisers, call them directly or visit their websites [in brackets].
Green to the Core
Advantage Trim & Lumber [www.advantagelumber.com]..........11 Anthony Forest Products [www.anthonyforest.com]...................5 Black Talon Universal [www.blacktalonuniversal.com]...............4 BuilderLink [www.yourbuilderlink.com/dealers].........................39 Boston Cedar [www.bostoncedar.com].........................................3 BW Creative Wood [www.bwcreativewood.com]........................33 Chicago Suburban Lumber Sales.................................................43
EVERY PRODUCT that TreeHouse carries undergoes stringent screening and is sold with a four-part rating.
An innovative Texas dealer has taken green beyond a few products offered in different departments to an entire 25,000-sq. ft. store, an existing structure that was completely remodeled for LEED certification. “We’re trying to bring sustainable living into the mainstream,” says Kane Sutphin, head of marketing at TreeHouse, in Austin. “This is what would happen if Whole Foods took over Home Depot.” In fact, the store’s interior is similar to the inside of a typical big box: light and airy, with high shelves stocked with every building product imaginable. Except here, each and every product undergoes stringent screening and is sold with a four-part rating: health, sustainability, performance, and corporate responsibility. “Our goal is to offer a unique shopping experience, plus products that can’t be found anywhere else, all in one location,” explains Sutphin. As an example, TreeHouse is just one of three retailers that stock Switch LED light bulbs, which are designed to look good, stay cool, and save energy. Every salesperson has years of experience in their department, and dedicated salespeople act as roving sustainability consultants. Education stations in each department offer interactive learning experiences about eco-friendly products. “Toilets flush more money down the drain than anything else in your home,” announces one display to educate shoppers about the differences between conventional and high-performance models. Other exhibits tout energy-efficient windows, denim insulation, sustainable chicken coops, and water-saving landscaping. Each display strives to make its point with humor and whimsy. “We think we can do a lot more to help the planet if people feel good about what they do, instead of guilty,” says Sutphin. “We don’t want people to feel bad.” The literal and figurative heart of the store is the Idea Center, where specially trained experts advise shoppers on products, services, and solutions that can make their homes smarter and greener. Contractors, builders, architects and designers also use the center, to review options and discuss plans with their clients. 46
Building Products Digest
March 2013
Crumpler Plastic Pipe [www.cpp-pipe.com]................................45 Do it Best Corp. [www.independentdoitbest.com]......................21 Everwood Treatment Co. [www.everwoodtreatment.com].........25 Fasco America [www.fascoamerica.com]...........................Cover II Great Southern Wood Preserving [yellawood.com].........Cover IV GRK Fasteners [www.grkfasteners.com].....................................26 Haida Forest Products [www.haidaforest.com]...........................31 Idaho Forest Group [www.idahoforestgroup.com].......................7 Lee Roy Jordan Lumber Co. [www.jordanredwood.com]...........36 Maze Nails [www.mazenails.com].......................................Cover III NewTech Wood [www.newtechwood.com]..................................22 Redwood Empire [www.redwoodemp.com].................................19 Richardson Timbers [www.richardsontimbers.com]..................35 Roseburg Forest Products [www.rfpco.com]..............................13 Simpson Strong-Tie [www.strongtie.com]...................................23 Skyreach L&S Extrusions [www.skyreachls.com]......................24 Swanson Group Sales Co. [www.swansongroupinc.com].........27 Tank Fab [www.tankfab.com]........................................................34 Viance [www.treatedwood.com]...........................................Cover I Western Forest Products [www.westernforest.com]..................32 Western Red Cedar Lumber Assn. [wrcla.org]...........28-29, 31, 32 Wholesale Wood Products [www.wholesalewoodonline.com]..33
Correction: Last month’s Advertisers Index should have listed TAMKO’s website as www.evergrainchallenge.com.
Building-Products.com
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KDAT STA N D S F O R
QUALITY Benefits: YellaWood brand KDAT (kiln-dried after treatment) products are pressure-treated and then kiln-dried to remove excess moisture; the result is beautiful, durable lumber that is ready to paint, stain, or seal when you are.
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Immediately ready to paint, stain, or seal
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Minimizes shrinking, cupping, and warping
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With options that include YellaWood Select and YellaWood SuperSelect , deck projects will be naturally beautiful and virtually free from knots and wane. It’s the same luxurious appeal of composite at a fraction of the price.
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Pressure-treated protection against rot, fungal decay, and termites
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To protect KDAT from excess moisture, please keep
elevated and completely dry prior to installation.
YellaWood® brand pressure-treated products are treated with copper and other preservatives (the “Preservatives”) and preservative methods, systems, and technologies of unrelated third parties. For details regarding the Preservatives, methods, systems, and technologies used by Great Southern Wood Preserving, Incorporated, see www.yellawood.com/products or write us at P.O. Box 610, Abbeville, AL 36310. Ask dealer for warranty details or visit www.yellawood.com/ warranties. For important handling and other information concerning our products or for a copy of the YellaWood® brand Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), please visit us at www.yellawood.com or write us at P.O. Box 610, Abbeville, AL 36310. YellaWood®, YellaWood Select®, YellaWood SuperSelect®, and the yellow tag are federally registered trademarks of Great Southern Wood Preserving, Incorporated.
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