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MAY 2017

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Building Products Digest

THE VOICE OF THE LBM SUPPLY CHAIN — FOR 35 YEARS

GET READY FOR THE START OF DECKING SEASON • NAWLA SPECIAL ISSUE

TOP P DE ECK. CK.

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CONTENTS May 2017

Volume 36 n Number 5

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DECKING GETS FINGERPRINTED

12 INDUSTRY TRENDS

ROOFTOP DECKS ON THE RISE

THE VOICE OF THE LBM SUPPLY CHAIN — FOR 35 YEARS

GET READY FOR THE START OF DECKING SEASON • NAWLA SPECIAL ISSUE

34 IN MEMORIAM

18 COMPETITIVE INTELLIGENCE

62 NEW PRODUCTS

TREATING INDUSTRY AT AWPA ANNUAL

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20 OLSEN ON SALES 24 TRANSFORMING TEAMS

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Sales & Marketing Coordinator Chelsea Hiers chiers@building-products.com New AWPA Standards for Treated Wood There is an important change in the U1 Standards establishing new guidelines for wood treated to UC4A Ground Contact General Use. As an example, joists and beams shall be treated to UC4A (ground contact when they are diffcult to maintain, repair or replace and are critical to the performance and safety of the entire system.

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Introducing g Outdoor Acc ents decorative hardware . Y Yo our customers can easily add style an nd strength to their outdoor projects. The new Simpson Strong--T Tie Outdoor Accents line e of structural connectors featu ures an innovative screw and washer set that combines the ease of installing a screw with the look of a bolt. And, with a black powderr--coa at finish, this hardware offers st yle that’s designed to last. ®

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ACROSS the Board By Patrick Adams

Picking my favorite

E LOVE PICKING FAVORITES ! What’s your favorite color? What’s your favorite football team? Las Vegas has built an empire out of letting you pick your favorites. What about your favorite employee? I suppose now we’re walking into dangerous waters; however, some organizations have built empires on this approach. GE’s Jack Welch became famous for his Vitality Curve approach towards management. He argued that 20% of the workforce are favorites because they are the drivers of the business. Seventy percent are adequate and get the job done. This leaves the bottom 10%, who should be fired and each year, all staff were force-ranked, leaving a new “bottom 10%” who were fired. While some would view this as harsh, he was credited with a 28-fold increase in earnings and a fivefold increase in revenue during his tenure. Versions of his approach have been adopted into almost everything from coaching to health in order to create “winners.” In my career, I have worked for many companies each with their own approach. Some believed in Jack’s approach while others believed the opposite—that growth came from getting “more” from everyone else. Getting an extra 10% from the 80% of your workforce would benefit the entire organization financially as well as in culture, turnover and well-being. Some believed in promoting from within, some believed in recruiting from the outside. Some invested in trying to build a “team,” while others almost forbid socialization. What about your children? We have officially jumped in head-first now and crossed the line! Favorite ice cream is one thing, but my favorite child? When I met my wife, I immediately fell in love with her. Twenty four years later, I never thought I could love anyone as much as her—until my daughter was born! I truly hope every parent feels about their children the way I felt when she was born. But then, my son was born! From the time we are born, we are raised to think about our favorites. What is your favorite color? Who is your best friend? What is your favorite game to play at school? In order to pick a favorite, we must force-rank everything in our life to come up with an answer. As the years go on, this almost becomes a subconscious action where we are ranking everything and thereby, categorizing everything else as “second and below.” Here’s proof: at your “favorite” restaurant, do you have a “favorite” dish that you order every time you go there? Too easy? Okay, how about your

route to work every morning? Do you ever try taking a different way that might be more scenic, more relaxing, or even quicker, or have you just built your routine and continue to assume it’s still the best way? So here’s what I think: your “favorite” is robbing you of experiencing all that life has to offer. In fact, just about everything could be your favorite! Perhaps you do have a football team that you are loyal to, but your fantasy league has shown you to appreciate all players for their ability. Maybe your top salesman is the “best,” or maybe he just collected the best accounts, or maybe your management style only supports his approach and makes closing sales harder for the other approaches of your team. I’ve already learned that my children are different and likely will be their entire lives. How great is that? I get excited trying to imagine how different they will be and how their lives will each evolve. What if we took this same approach in the workplace with our strategies or staff? What if we decided to challenge ourselves to take a different route to work every morning or try a new restaurant or pick a new flavor… or let every employee try their own style and approach? They say “variety is the spice of life”… is it? I know this: I have a great team and they are all as different as people could be. My wife is as different from me as a person could be and my two kids, well, they’re already the most amazing individuals that I learn something new from every day! Go ahead… pick a new favorite every day! “There are no favorites in my office. I treat them all with the same general inconsideration.” ~ Lyndon B. Johnson

Patrick S. Adams Publisher/President padams@building-products.com

Building Products Digest

May 2017

Building-Products.com

FEATURE Story By David Koenig

Hardwood decking gets DNA fingerprinted T

HE FREE-WHEELING days of trading hundreds of different exotic hardwoods, with seemingly little regard for how the wood was harvested, are ancient history. The Lacey Act—and the threat of hefty fines or even jail time for using illegally sourced timber—have made the U.S. supply chain pick and choose which hardwoods they use, and make sure they have the documentation to back up its permissibility. Yet there are still fears that the wood can be mislabeled, or its origin or species misrepresented. One Australian exporter, which recently began shipping decking into the U.S., claims to have the answer: testing the wood’s DNA. Trees, like people, have unique DNA, which can be analyzed and used to independently check document claims of species or origin. Simmonds Lumber was the first company in the world to utilize this method, developed by Prof. Andrew Lowe at the University of Adelaide in Australia and applied by Simmond’s third-party auditor, DoubleHelix of Singapore. “Our approach provides greater supply chain transparency all the way back to identified origin of harvest for every verified shipment,” said Mike Strang, Simmonds’ North American sales manager. “Compare this to conventional chain-of-custody certification, where in most cases it is not possible to identify the forest of origin. Wherever possible, scientific testing methods are applied to independently confirm claims of species or origin on paper documents. Documents can be tampered with at any point in the supply chain, so science is used to validate information where the risk of tampering is highest.” In addition to DNA testing, which

Building Products Digest

is used primarily to identify wood species and origin of harvest where reference data is available, other scientific methods are also used. Isotope testing uses the unique chemical signature found in the wood to pinpoint the harvest region. Microscopic analysis, also known as wood anatomy, looks at the cellular structure of the wood to identify the genus (or in some cases species) it belongs to. The verification methods are customized to the unique risk profile of each individual product and supply chain. Key are Simmonds’ partnerships with overseas suppliers, cultivated over more than 25 years and including the biggest merbau mill in Asia with a capacity of up to 300 containers per month. Staff at Simmonds’ own Indonesian office in Surubaya grade and inspect all orders before and after manufacturing to ensure quality and consistency. Simmonds Lumber introduced “DNA Lumber” about 10 years ago as part of efforts to reduce illegal logging

in Indonesia. It has since become a well known brand in Australia and New Zealand, and last year the company began laying inroads to take the decking into North America. “From market visits and trade shows there has been genuine interest, which has initiated a red balau program into New England and the Southwest,” Strang said. “We are seeing interest growing as the market appreciates the DNA Lumber brand as a third-party verified product demonstrating best-practice due care.” In addition to red balau, Simmonds is also marketing bulletwood (an Indonesian species with properties similar to ipé) to North America and looking to expand to meranti and keruing. Decking sizes include 4/4 and 5/4x4 and x 6, plus posts, balustrades and other complementary products. Strang says the price difference between DNA Lumber and other certified imports is negligible, and he foresees a welcoming domestic market for scientifically verifiable decking.

OUT BACK: Australian company is testing the DNA of merbau and other other hardwoods to confirm they’re legal to ship to North America. May 2017

Building-Products.com

INDUSTRY Trends Rooftop Decks

The increasing popularity of

Rooftop Decks O

UTDOOR SPACES have become increasingly popular to homeowners nationwide who are using decks as extensions to their homes. Decks and porches are more easily built for those who live in the suburbs or countryside, given they usually have the luxury of space. This is not necessarily an option in some of the more crowded cities like San Francisco, Chicago and New York. Big-city locals have the same desire to spend time outside, so getting creative is imperative to turn that feeling a reality. Thus, rooftop decks have become an increasingly popular solution over the past few years. “When you have an area like New York City or Brooklyn, everything is bunched up together. The only area you really have is your roof,” Keith

Camacho, owner of Stellar Decks and lifetime Brooklyn resident, said. “People in New York are known to utilize these spaces for entertaining because it is the only area they can really enjoy the perks of outdoor living. People are recognizing that in instances when you aren’t able to extend your space, you have to look upward.” In many instances, these outdoor spaces are constructed on residential and commercial high rises, so they also come with regulations. Aside from certain weight restrictions, materials must be flame-spread rated to be approved for the building permit. “If there’s a fire, the wood will burn immediately,” Camacho said. “For building permit approval, everything needs to be fire rated, so composite and PVC products are typi-

cally preferred.” While inspectors look for those details, homeowners also have a common request when it comes to residential rooftop spaces: low maintenance. “A lot of people are looking for products that don’t take a lot of work to maintain. In cities like New York, outdoor spaces can only be enjoyed for a certain amount of time. No one wants to spend all of their time staining and cleaning—they are looking for low maintenance decking,” said Camacho. “But if you think about it, if I were to stand on a roof for 30 years, I’d eventually need a shower. While ‘no maintenance’ doesn’t exist, there are products that require extremely little attention over the years.” For many of his rooftop projects, Camacho has used capped polymer

IN CONGESTED urban areas, homeowners are increasingly building rooftop decks to create their own outdoor havens.

(All photos courtesy CPG)

Building-Products.com

Building Products Digest

May 2017

(PVC) products. Capstock products can be cleaned with a solution as simple as soap and water and come in a variety of colors and collections, with decades-long fade and stain warranties. The products are made to face the harsh elements of the four seasons and are resistant to mold, mildew and moisture damage. They are also lightweight, so the deck boards are preferable for contractors working on rooftop installations. “Rooftop spaces are a way to create outdoor living areas where there are limited options,” said Julia Fitzgerald, CMO of AZEK Building Products, “and we have seen an uptick in rooftop spaces where homeowners are embracing the benefits that AZEK Decking offers to provide an escape in the city.” As rooftop spaces increase in popularity, Camacho has noticed certain trends gaining traction within the New York City skyline. In the “concrete jungle,” locals especially like greenery; Camacho sees planters and trees on many rooftops amidst the colorless buildings scaling the city skyline. To bring color to the sky, many rooftop designers are opting for the

COMPOSITES’ light weight, durability, low maintenance, and favorable flame spread ratings make them ideal options for rooftop decks.

non-traditional colors that allow the designs to pop. Dual-level decks are increasing in popularity. Metal and aluminum spiral staircases, which are fire rated and approved to be added as a decorative touch to the space, are often seen on

these multi-level rooftops. “When you get a nice week of weather, no one wants to be inside,” said Camacho. “Rooftop spaces allow people—even in the most congested cities in the country—to enjoy those days when the sun decides to come out.”

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MARGIN Builders By David Koenig

DeckRail Woodway Products

Tam-Rail capstock composite TAMKO

Spectrum System stainless steel Atlantis Rail Systems

Choose the right rail D

past where homeowners’ options for deck railing come down to a choice between basic wood and cheap white vinyl. Today, there are a multitude of materials, colors, styles, textures, compositions and warranties, each best suited for different looks, conditions and applications. “With the right selection, railings can add both aesthetic and functional value to a property,” advises Andrew Pantelides, Regal ideas. “Choose products that are environmentally friendly, low maintenance, classy and add a touch of modern to your decor.” Perhaps the most important factor in choosing the best deck railing is the look of the home itself. Color Guard Railing Systems’ Scott M. Kleban says when selecting the right material, “it really comes down to the style of house. Some house styles lend themselves to vinyl—traditionally white trim, possibly to replace white wood railing—and some house styles favor (other materials).” Wood’s greatest advantage is that it’s the real thing—offering the look and feel other materials try to emulate. It is also easy to work with and available in a range of price points. The top reason for turning to manmade alternatives is a desire for less upkeep. Doug Mucher, CertainTeed Outdoor Living, says, “Most people prefer vinyl or composite because of the low maintenance aspect. Typically they’ve had wood, and don’t want to paint or stain it. You clean them once a year and they also offer a warranty.” Vinyl is the most popular and typi-

AYS ARE LONG

Building Products Digest

cally least expensive. “There are many advantages to vinyl, which include its strength, ease of installation, design flexibility, and value over time,” says Ply Gem’s Jerry Blais. “Unlike other materials such as wood, which require significant upkeep and costly repairs over time, once in place, vinyl requires no additional restoration.” Vinyl, like powder-coated aluminum, lends itself to an extensive color palette. “Vinyl comes in many different colors, so you can coordinate with the color of the deck—or contrast,” Mucher explains. “You pick up a tone from the decking” He said aluminum used to have the advantage over vinyl of coming in more dark colors, but manufacturers are now releasing more dark options in vinyl. “Typically vinyl railing was white, or there might be tan or clay,” he says. “Now CertainTeed has black, warm spice, and rustic rose, to go with popular deck colors. Spice coordinates with ipé-colored composite decking; rose goes with the redwood color.” Compared to vinyl, composites usually look and feel more like wood. Composite systems typically offer only a decades-long warranty instead of the lifetime warranty common to vinyl. It is also becoming increasingly available in darker colors. Among metals, the two most common options are aluminum and stainless. “Stainless steel is ideal for harsh environments such as oceanfront applications,” advises Atlantis Rail Systems’ Carey Hicks. “It is more durable and highly corrosion resistant May 2017

(particularly grade 316L stainless steel). It will last in harsh outdoor environments and keep its luster with minimal maintenance. It’s a hygienic material that can be cleaned easily.” Aluminum is a more affordable metal, but still a “structurally sound material to use for a railing system,” Hicks adds. “We do not recommend installing it within one mile of the ocean. It is less corrosion resistant. It will hold up to outdoor exposure better than wood. It is lighter than wood, making it easier to work with and install.” Increasingly popular is contrasting one type of decking with a different type of railing (such as matching stainless steel railing with a hardwood deck) or mixing materials within the railing itself, such as a wood or aluminum railing system with stainless steel cable, glass or even iron in-fill. Atlantis offers the RailEasy Nautilus System, which utilizes wood posts, stainless steel top and optional bottom rails, and horizontal cable infill. Hicks says the systems are perfect for retrofit applications where a person wants to keep their existing posts and rails and update their in-fill (typically removing pickets). For retailers, says Mucher, the best way to help their customers is “giving people different options to go with their decking and providing more solutions. When you walk up to a deck, the deck railing is the first thing you see. So in some ways the choice of railing is even more important than the choice of decking.” Building-Products.com

PRODUCT Spotlight By Brent Gwatney, MoistureShield

Composite innovations invigorate decking season W

OOD-PLASTIC

composite decking continues to capture the attention of homeowners, resulting in strong profit potential for building material dealers. This is especially true since composites can provide higher margins than traditional wood decking. Composites are forecast to “experience above average annual gains in demand through 2020,” according to the Freedonia Group. It’s not surprising that people like composites’ durability and aesthetics, as manufacturers have continually strived to make improvements in those two areas since composite decking was introduced in the late ’80s. Now that dealers can supply homeowners and contractors with long-life composites with the beauty of real wood, what’s the next stage of innovation? As you continue to evaluate your composite stocking options throughout the 2017 decking season, two recently available innovations to consider are: more temperature-friendly composites and advances in deck board surface finishes/patterns.

Friendlier Temperatures Chances are you’ve had customers ask about composite decking getting too hot. Market research shows that surface temperature is the number one buyer concern not addressed by decking products that have been available. While any dark-colored decking absorbs sunlight and can heat up, because composites are more dense than traditional wood decking, some products can become uncomfortably hot in direct sun. This can mean having to hot-foot it across the deck in bare feet, or keep pets off the deck. While it might seem this is a problem only in sunny climates like the Southwest, Texas and Florida, even in

Building Products Digest

NEW Infuse composite decking offers the option of heat-reflecting CoolDeck technology. (Photo courtesy MoistureShield)

northern regions, long sunny days can result in a too-hot deck. In some ways, it’s more of an issue in cooler regions, as people have fewer sunny days in the year to enjoy their deck as an outdoor retreat, so they don’t want to lose deck time to an over-hot deck. To address this problem, new for the 2017 decking season are composite boards that optimize heat reflection. For example, boards made with MoistureShield’s CoolDeck technology absorb up to 35% less heat than conventional capped composites in similar colors. The result is a noticeably lower surface temperature in direct sun.

Surface Finishes/Patterns Another innovation in composites this year is boards with improved aesthetics and enhanced fade, stain and scratch resistance. This is a continuation of the long arc of enhancements May 2017

in composites, which have been steadily evolving to a more natural wood look, while also performing better than wood in areas such as moisture resistance and durability. Next generation composites, such as MoistureShield Vision, offer rich colors with striking visual patterns that emulate exotic woods. The technology behind these aesthetic improvements also will eventually enable homeowners, builders or designers to customize the surface appearances of deck boards. For such homeowners, going beyond the look of wood to custom colors and finishes will be a key selling point. As innovation continues, dealers have even more opportunities to grow their decking sales and margins. – Brent Gwatney is senior VP–sales & marketing at MoistureShield. Reach him at brentgwatney@moistureshield.com. Building-Products.com

COMPETITIVE Intelligence By Carla Waldemar

The memo is… diversify! “A

FROM THE Ferris wheel,” the boss directs me on the phone. For the first time since the inception of this column, I’m en route to learn about a lumberyard in Minneapolis, my own hometown. Oh yeah! Everybody knows where to find the Ferris wheel: the glitzy centerpiece of the city’s trendiest—and funkiest—nightclub, where Millennials sip umbrella drinks while spinning on a repurposed carnival wheel, sending tweets and shooting selfies as they guzzle their retro cocktails. But… Siwek’s? It’s the antithesis of trendy. Its phone-hold message invites folks to visit “an old-fashioned lumberyard,” like lumberyards used to be. Siwek Lumber & Millwork, Inc. has been in business 84 years. Three generations, going on forever. It anchored this neighborhood long before those kids showed up in Beamers—back when owning a battered truck meant you could deliver BLOCK

coal and scrap firewood to neighbors clutching their blue collars to try to keep warm and outlive the Great Depression. And that’s exactly how Siwek’s started. Grandpa Joe (recounts grandson Dave Siwek, VP, who’s now a grandpa himself) headed west from Ellis Island to Minneapolis back in 1933, to where relatives from the Old Country told him the Polish community was welcoming, here on the northeast side of town. With a new wife and newer baby, Joe Junior, to care for when he lost his railroad job during the Great Depression, Joe didn’t line up for a handout. He started his own business. Joe, with his former employer’s permission, began dismantling disused boxcars to sell as firewood. He also scavenged loose coal from along the tracks and sold it in the ’hood from the back of his truck. This got the young family through the years of World War II, after which folks could now

AFTER MORE than three-quarters of a century of business, Minneapolis’ Siwek Lumber & Millwork uses its old-fashioned charm as a selling point.

Building Products Digest

May 2017

afford to heat their homes not with scrap wood and coal droppings, but with natural gas. So, time to adapt once again, and Joe did just that. By 1947 Siwek Fuel and Lumber was born, adding the lumber, plywood and insulation newly-prosperous neighbors needed to fix up basements, build garages and even weekend lakeside cabins. Joe Junior took the helm in the booming ’50s and ’60s, adding new “miracle products” like sheet paneling, pourable insulation, aluminum storm windows, and gypsum board. He added hardware to his lineup and sold Minnesota Paint, “a big deal in the ’60s and ’70s,” Dave relates. And back then (just as today), you needed big deals to stand out from the competition. “There were 13 lumberyards within five miles of us.” Millwork was another big deal, a sizeable operation Siwek added to manufacture its own windows and hung doors. And it remains a mainstay of the present business, which was bursting its seams on that two-acre stretch of the neighborhood, despite several expansions after fires took their toll. So, when a property anchoring 13 acres in the small town of Jordan, half an hour southwest of the city, became available in 1989, the Siweks purchased it to serve as a distribution center to solve its storage problems. There, they added a sawmill to serve both locations. Storage at the mothership is facilitated by two covered, clean and modern buildings that Dave walks me through back at the Minneapolis site— all sorts (and I do mean all sorts) of dimensions and species line the pair of vast warehouses, but they simply represent the tip of the arboreal iceberg. Siwek does a strong trade in buying close-outs and also complete inventoBuilding-Products.com

ries when yards face bankruptcy or simply close their doors. “We’ve got a presence on eBay,” Dave notes. And his shoppers love-love-love his carloads of (trendy) distressed wood and live-edge boards. “We can buy in big quantities and get good volume pricing,” he notes. Customers consider these offerings well worth the drive, and head his way, says Dave, from a circle of the surrounding hundred miles. And beyond. “A man just walked in from Canada.” Yet, as another Minnesota boy pronounced in song, the times, they are a-changin’. And so is Siwek’s customer base. More walk-ins. “People today,” notes Dave, “are into [home improvement] projects—new trim, replacement windows, hardwood floors,” and replicating the fancy millwork of the vintage houses they’re industriously reclaiming. Thus the DIYer now represents 40% of Siwek’s business. Contractors contribute another 30%—including small builders who put up four or five houses a year in the under$500,000 range. “We’re having a boom! New construction is back, big time!” says Dave with a grin. Not that the outfit’s business ever receded during the recent recession. “2006 was our best year ever. As my dad says, ‘When times are good, we do good. And when they’re bad—even better!’ That’s because then, people are out

AT 84, Joe Siwek Jr., son of the founder, was a mainstay—and the same age as the business. He passed away April 1 (see obituary, page 34).

looking for deals.” And deals are Siwek’s forté and have been ever since founder Joe started out, breaking down boxcars: distressed, mis-handled, bankruptcy lots, you name it. But the operation also supplies the finer grades many a builder covets. In fact, one framer told the developer he works for, “I never have a problem with Siwek’s lumber. Get your stuff there.” And they do. “These pros come to us because we’ve been in business 84 years and three generations. Those contractors are often third-generation customers, too. Plus, during the recession, when they were desperate for work, we backed them up and used them, ourselves, for projects. And they remember that. Now, we’ve become a little more strict with credit, but we still do business the old-fashioned way, with a handshake.” But what about the big boxes? Dave has a ready answer. “Shop at Menards? That’s the best thing that could happen for us. Those customers come right back here, swearing, ‘Never again!’ and moaning that ‘it cost me 25% to deal with them.’ Plus, lack of service. Here, they get better Building-Products.com

FAMILY AFFAIR: Management includes (left to right) VP Tom Siwek, president Joe Siwek, secretary/treasurer Pat Siwek Mursyn, and VP Dave Siwek.

information and get in and out quick, which they love because their time is money. And if there’s a problem, we’re on it. For instance, if they need a truss repair, we’re there within 24 hours.” An additional 30% of business comes from commercial customers—big outfits like steel companies, box manufacturers, and exporters. Then, over in rural Jordan, Mn., the ag business adds another flavor—a whole different clientele in need of pole buildings. (Dave claims bragging rights about supplying the material for the Ag-Star Arena at the State Fair.) For those readers who came in late, let’s underscore the mantra that made this business a success: diversification. “We don’t put our eggs in one basket,” Dave makes clear— millwork, close-outs, sawmill, pole buildings, a presence on eBay, and the list goes on. The only downside with that business plan, he allows, is when it comes to hiring and training staff. The wide diversification “is hard to understand, to grasp—really a struggle. It can be overwhelming.” But what they do connect with is the work ethic: “I’ve never asked anyone to do anything I wouldn’t do or haven’t done myself—hop in a semi, fill in out in the yard.” And although the recession didn’t hurt business as it’s done elsewhere, it did create a new way of thinking. As Dave sees it, “Those aged 30 to 40 had never experienced bad times. Now, there’s a whole new generation that’s cautious, that’ll think twice. We see a slice of that….” But Dave, sister Pat (secretary/treasurer), and brother Tom (GM) have been around that block before and aren’t worried. There’s staying power, for one thing: in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, only three yards—count ’em and weep for the dearly departed—are still doing business today. Folks will always need a lumberyard, and Siwek fills the bill, using the tagline “How a real lumberyard should be”—an old-fashioned, family business. And that’s something even those foolhardy folks on the nearby Ferris wheel can trust.

Carla Waldemar cwaldemar@comcast.net May 2017

Building Products Digest

OLSEN On Sales By James Olsen

They won’t come to the phone! T

HE NUMBER ONE complaint I hear from inside salespeople is they can’t get their customers and potential customers to come to the phone. Today’s reality of email and texts added to the human and (even worse) electronic gatekeepers does make it a challenge to get people/buyers to talk to us. Below are seven must-do strategies that will increase our contact with our customers:

A strong introductory call. We must know exactly how and what we want to tell our customers about us and what we do in a clear, easy to understand and inspirational way. We must be able to answer the question, “Why should I buy from you?” in a way that will make us stand out in our customers’ minds. Example: “You should buy from me because we have millions of board feet rolling or on the ground in all markets. We have 40 traders and access to 100 sawmills. We are aggressive risk-takers and market makers, so you will always be under or ahead of the market when buying from me. I am a person you can trust to treat your needs as my own.” We must communicate our unique difference from others. Differentiation is key. Our customers already have suppliers. What makes us different? More importantly, how are we going to make our customer’s life better or more profitable. Use strong, positive, short phone messages. Every call we make sends another piece of information/inspiration to our customers. They may not be buying from us yet, but they are “judging the quality of our failure.” ALWAYS be positive and act like you are killing it when leaving phone messages. Important note: messages must be short. Create a relationship with our gatekeepers. Receptionists are often more powerful than they seem. Most sellers treat receptionists poorly or at best like furniture (or a gate). Receptionists feel it and resent it. Being in a hurry with the receptionist will not make us more money. Slowing down and being personable with receptionists pays. It also makes our day better and more pleasant. We are persistent and consistent in our efforts. Most sellers don’t call their new customers persistently and consistently. “I only want to call her with a good deal,” they tell me. I tell rookie salespeople, “You don’t even know what a good deal is.” It is better for us to call consistently with competitive deals than to call once-in-awhile with a

Building Products Digest

May 2017

low number. This strategy makes us the “oncein-a-while” supplier. How do we show new customers that we will be a trusted partner they can count on? Most sellers work on having aggressive pricing. “Cheap and charming” is not the most artistic but it does work. We must show that we are competitive. Competitive does not mean ALWAYS being the cheapest. We can be competitive with price, delivery, stock or specifications. Having products that are scarce and hard to find makes us competitive also. Send email and texts on a consistent basis. Several of my students are getting orders by text. We need to ask for our new customer’s cell phone number early in the relationship—if we ask on the first call 60% will give it to us immediately. We engage our customers in “electric conversations.” We send offerings that are competitive and relevant to our customers business yes, but we always ask for feedback. Get a LinkedIn and Facebook page. The first thing our new customers will do if we’ve had a good call with them is check us out online. We need to be findable. We also need to control our message. My suggestion is to keep these pages human, but avoid political/religious posts or pictures of you in party mode. We should also look for our customers online and friend-request them ASAP. How we communicate/sell is changing and we must change with it. Smoke signals won’t get it done anymore. We need look no further than our own children to see that communicating in a pre-internet way leaves us out of the main stream of what “is happening” in society. Personally, we may want to be less connected, but less connected is not the luxury of the modern salesperson. Connection is our life’s blood. James Olsen Reality Sales Training (503) 544-3572 james@realitysalestraining.com Building-Products.com

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THE REVENUE Growth Habit By Alex Goldfayn

The immense cost of fear in sales F

you a lot of money in your life. Millions of dollars, probably. At least millions. If you run a company that’s around $20 million, fear has cost you tens of millions of dollars over the years. A $150 million firm? Fear has cost your company multiple hundreds of millions. And if you’re compensated based on topline sales, it has cost you, personally, millions of dollars. Think about that. It’s hard to wrap one’s mind around it. You probably don’t believe me yet, either. But by the end of this article you will. You’ll be with me. I just hope you’ll decide to do something about it! EAR HAS COST

Why Fear Costs Us Millions The typical salesperson spends an average of four hours per week on the phone. I’ve studied this, and it’s the average across companies and industries. You work for 40 hours, at least. But you only spend four hours on the phone. What are you doing the rest of the time? Email. Research. Driving. You could call from the car, but you often don’t. Here is a rule of the universe: the more customers hear from us, the more they buy from us. If you agree, then why don’t we use the phone more? Because we don’t want to bother the customer. We don’t want to disturb them. We don’t want to take their time. We don’t want to lose them. We’ve worked so hard to get them, and keep them happy. What if I call and they leave me for the competition? We don’t call customers and prospects more because we’re afraid. Of rejection. Of failure. Of losing the customer. More examples: We don’t ask for the business, even though the customer is meeting with us, and is asking for our help. They are ready to buy, but we do not ask them to. So they do not. We should ask every customer we speak with for the sale, every time. But we don’t, because we are afraid. Of offending. And of being rejected. Do you know that for most salespeople the fear of rejection is more profound than your need to feed your family? What an immense truth that is. We’d rather not ask for the business and risk the possibility of hearing a “no” than try to make more money for our family. We don’t ask for testimonial referrals for the same reason—fear—even though we know they are among the best ways we have to grow our business. What if the customer gets mad? What if the customer says no? I can’t ask that. They’re busy—they don’t have time for me.

How to Deal with Fear To help more customers and sell more products and services, we must get over this immense fear we live with. Here are two simple steps to do so.

Building Products Digest

May 2017

When you find yourself avoiding something—like picking up the phone or asking for the business—when you are procrastinating on something important, 95% of the time it’s because of fear. So, ask yourself the first of two questions: what exactly am I afraid of? Almost always, it’s a fear of failure or a fear of rejection. Now think through your answer to this question: if this fear comes true, if the customer rejects me, what will happen to me? Death?! Will they come and take away your home if this customer says no? Will somebody shoot at us? Of course not! It’s sounds absurd because it is absurd! The fear that stops us from doing so much isn’t real. It’s made up in our minds, by our minds. When the customer tells us no… nothing happens! So, the fear isn’t real. But the damage it causes is too real. Think about all the hundreds (thousands?) of phone calls you didn’t make over the years. And all the hundreds (thousands?) of sales you didn’t ask for. And all the hundreds (thousands?) of referrals you’ve missed out on. The cost is millions of dollars. At least. Will you ask yourself these two simple questions the next time you’re avoiding picking up the phone? It’s time you start making the money you deserve. Alex Goldfayn Revenue Growth Consultancy alex@evangelistmktg.com (847) 459-6322 Building-Products.com

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TRANSFORMING Teams By Claudia St. John

A message from your pessimistic HR expert

REALLY DO hate to be the bearer of bad news. There is no “but…” to follow that. It is simply a statement of fact. In recent weeks, at conference presentations and in conversations with clients, I have found myself in the role of dampening the enthusiasm of business owners and executives when they begin to gush about the windfall of support they expect from having a Republican-led White House, Senate and House of Representatives. “This is the most business-friendly administration and Congress that we’ve had in decades,” they often say. And clearly, based on statements from President Trump and Congressional leaders during and since the campaign, one would certainly expect that to be the case. But not according to your friendly,

Building Products Digest

pessimistic HR expert. So far I am seeing regulatory rollback focused on environmental rules, but not so much when it comes to employment and the workplace. Why do I think that, when all is said and done, we are in for a lot of disappointment? First, while under typical circumstances a Republicancontrolled government would presage a deregulatory, pro-business approach, Donald Trump is not your typical Republican president. And now that we’ve started to get into the nitty gritty of regulatory rollbacks, the outcomes do not seem quite so assured. The one big employment-related initiative thus far has, of course, been the attempt to repeal and replace Obamacare—and that hasn’t gone so well. In the end, the White House and May 2017

the Republican majority could not hold together and get the legislation passed, so the Affordable Care Act remains the law of the land. Given the complexity of the act (it extends far beyond the employer mandate and the minimum benefit package), along with the demonstrated political complexities of its repeal, our best guess is that the ACA will continue in its current form until at least the 2019 renewal period. What about the overtime threshold that the Obama administration doubled to more than $47,000 last year? While the business community was hoping to see that reversed, all Mr. Trump has said so far is that he will want to exempt small businesses from the requirement. Not sure what will happen next on this. During the campaign Mr. Trump and his daughter Ivanka spoke frequently about the need to expand paid child care and parental leave. Since the inauguration, however, little has been said and it remains unclear how these programs would be administered or funded. We shall see. In one key area, immigration, there are signs that the Trump administration will actually be adding new layers of regulation on employers. Most notably, during the campaign Mr. Trump often called for mandatory Everify for all employers, which is something that very few states require and some, including Illinois and California, prohibit. Requiring its mandatory use will certainly impact many of our clients, particularly in the janitorial and car care industries. There’s another big reason why I Building-Products.com

have doubts about an impending wave of regulatory relief for employers. Looking at this more broadly, it is not much of a stretch to assume that as Washington continues to muddle along in hyper-partisanship and dysfunction, states and local governments will continue to forge ahead with their own workplace laws and requirements, leaving businesses to scramble to remain compliant in all the locations where they do business. Put another way, it’s one thing to be hopeful for regulatory relief at the federal level, but don’t let that divert your focus away from real regulations that are being put into place in the states where your business operates: • Minimum Wage – Effective in 2017, 19 states increased their minimum wage provisions, requiring that businesses in those states adjust accordingly. Moreover, many more counties and cities have established their own minimum wage requirements as well, further creating a financial and administrative burden on businesses. • Ban-the-Box – In an increasing effort to facilitate pathways to employment for rehabilitated ex-convicts, many localities have instituted requirements that prohibit businesses from having on their employment application a

Q We are coming up on our health insurance renewal

requires a minimum period of time to post schedules, such as 10 to 14 days ahead, to ensure that workers can plan their work schedules and make accommodations for other jobs or family obligations. These laws typically require an added pay incentive for employees who are required to be on-call or face short notice scheduling changes. • Drug Testing – With the increasing passage of recreational and medical marijuana laws, combined with the continued federal ban on marijuana use, employers are left to navigate a myriad of compliance issues around testing for marijuana use. Establishing a cohesive, legal policy that complies with both the state and federal laws is not easy and employers are left to do their best with little guidance from state or federal regulators. Clearly, there remain many initiatives on the federal, state and local level that have a significant impact on employers. When I discuss these issues with business owners and executives, invariably I get the feeling I am spoiling their good mood. It is never my intention to do so—a good mood is a terrible thing to waste. But before we get too excited about anticipated deregulation, we need to keep an eye out for what is happing at all levels of government, not just the one in Washington.

and I keep hearing about the Obamacare repeal. How will its repeal affect our health insurance offering?

A The Affordable Care Act is a very complicated piece of regulation that extends well into the structure of the nation’s health care delivery system. Repealing it in one quick act will be difficult. Moreover, insurers are already having to submit their 2018 premiums and benefit packages to state regulatory bodies for approval. Our best guess is that you won’t see a real change until renewal 2019. Your best source of information is your local health insurance agent or broker who can keep you informed of changes to your existing policies.

Claudia St. John Affinity HR Group, Inc. claudia@affinityhrgroup.com

box that inquires whether the applicant has ever been convicted of a crime. The argument for Ban-the-Box laws is that by answering this question on the application, qualified candidates with criminal records are adversely impacted during the hiring process. • Pay Equity – In a continued effort to establish equal pay for women, many states and localities have made it illegal to ask for prior salary history when hiring a new employee. The reasoning is that pay discrepancies for women become perpetuated when employers base new hire pay on their prior salary rather than on the equitable pay of the position. • Paid Sick Leave and Parental Leave – Many localities have implemented some form of minimum benefit for paid sick leave and for parental leave upon the birth or adoption of a child. Again, these programs vary in how they are administered and funded and establish differing reporting and notification requirements. • Scheduling Predictability – Many cities have instituted some form of scheduling predictability legislation that Building-Products.com

May 2017

Building Products Digest

Equity Firm Buys into US Lumber

DEALER Briefs Lyon & Billard, Berlin, Ct., upgraded its facade and added a new 5,600-sq. ft. design center/kitchen & bath showroom, transplanted from its Middletown, Ct., yard. Holmquist Lumber Co., Grove City, Mn., shut down March 31 with the retirement of Charlie Holmquist. His dad started the business 75 years ago. Ridgefield Supply, Ridgefield, Ct., held an April 3 grand re-opening following an extensive renovation. Swanton Lumber owner Gordon Winters and his wife Debbie have purchased a site in downtown Swanton, Vt., to build an Ace Hardware store. RP Lumber opened a new yard in March at a former ProBuild site in Silvis, Il., and expected to open in a onetime Kmart building in Canton, Il., by the end of April.

Marvin’s Building Materials held a grand board-cutting April 7 to show off its recently acquired store in Moncks Corner, S.C., formerly known as Central True Value. 84 Lumber held an April 3 ribbon cutting for its new 36,000-sq. ft. store in Riverhead, N.Y., five years after leaving the city (John Greenwood, mgr.). Additional openings will follow later this year in S. Tampa, Fl.; Holbrook, Ma.; Durham, N.C.; and San Antonio, Tx. Merrimack Building Supply, Merrimack, N.H., has submitted plans to expand its Medway, Ma., location by nearly 20,000 sq. ft., tripling its size.

Hudson Do it Best Hardware, Hudson, Fl., has extensively remodeled, inside and out.

Frager’s Hardware , Washington, D.C., is being acquired by the owners of the 11-unit A Few Cool Hardware Stores group, and will convert from True Value to Ace Hardware affiliation. E&H Ace Hardware has acquired and reopened the former Newton Falls Ace Hardware, Newton Falls, Oh., as its 20th location.

Home Depot unveiled a 106,000-sq. ft. location March 29 in Bradenton, Fl.—the chain’s first store opening in the U.S. since 2013. Wood’s Ace Hardware & Mercantile, Summerville, S.C., held a grand reopening March 22. Donna M. Wood, who bought the store last spring, spent a year remodeling it. Enfield Hardware & Supply, Enfield, N.H., is closing May 19 after 33 years, with the retirement of Ken Stanford, owner since 1994. E.C. Barton & Co. opened a 30,000-sq. ft. Surplus Warehouse April 13 in Macon, Ga.—its first in the state. Rusty Pierce is manager.

Building Products Digest

May 2017

U.S. Lumber Group, Atlanta, Ga., has consented to a strategic growth investment by private equity firm Madison Dearborn Partners, Chicago, Il. After the deal closes, U.S. Lumber president/CEO Jeff McLendon and the rest of existing management will remain in place and work with MDP “to execute a strategy of pursuing geographic and product offering expansion.” “We have successfully green-fielded five of our nine locations, but believe that with MDP on board we now have an even greater opportunity to serve our suppliers and customers with additional geographical expansion through acquisition,” said U.S. Lumber founder/chairman Lawrence Newton. “We are excited about continuing to grow our unique product and services platform. Partnering with MDP provides us with the resources we need to accomplish this next phase of our expansion.”

Lumber Prices Notch 12-Year Peak Lumber prices in April hit their highest level in 12 years, approaching $415 per thousand bd. ft. The last time prices reached that mark was March 2005, coinciding with the peak of homeownership in the U.S. Factors said to be pushing up prices are improving consumer confidence, growing demand for housing, rising interest in home ownership by Millennials, and Canadian manufacturers preparing for the reinstatement of tariffs on softwood lumber exports to the U.S.—with the possibility duties could be retroactive.

Lumberyard Replaces NC Sawmill T.E. Johnson Lumber Co., Four Oaks, N.C., auctioned off its milling equipment April 22, even though it had already found a buyer to reopen its yard. Michael and Angie Blinson purchased the remaining inventory and opened Southern Woods Lumber in the sawmill’s former office and two of its warehouse buildings. No manufacturing will be done on site. The staff includes Juan Garcia, Patricio Ramirez, Javier Teniente, and salesman Ross Barefoot. The Johnson family idled the sawmill last month, after more than 70 years of operation.

Master Mark Changes Name Master Mark Plastics, Paynesville, Mn., has been renamed Avon Plastics, the corporate name it originally had when it was founded in 1966. The change is the result of a corporate strategy to provide a renewed focus on the company’s product brands and services. It also reflects the company’s original corporate vision “to manufacture products for a brighter future.” Brands include Armadillo composite decking, Gridworx lattice, and Master Mark lawn and garden products. CEO Mark Reum said the change will “allow us to more effectively structure our company and market our brands and services—both those available today and new products that are in development.”

Southern Pine Shipments Up For the seventh consecutive year, shipments of southern pine lumber recorded an increase from the previous year, according to Southern Forest Products Association. Shipments in 2016 totaled 17.34 billion bd. ft., a 4% increase over the volume shipped in 2015 (16.6 billion bd. ft.) and 47% above 2009 shipments (11.8 billion ft.). Building-Products.com

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BMC Adds Dallas, DC Plants BMC Stock Holdings, Atlanta, Ga., has acquired substantially all of the assets and assumed certain liabilities of Texas Plywood & Lumber Co., Grand Prairie, Tx., and Code Plus Components, Martinsburg, W.V., enhancing its value-added offerings and footprint in the Dallas/Fort Worth and Washington, D.C., markets. “Millwork, doors and truss manufacturing are all key components of providing whole-house and valueadded solutions to our customers,” said Peter Alexander, president and

CEO of BMC. “By moving more of the construction and assembly process to our manufacturing facilities, our customers can continue to thrive, despite a tight labor market, while also saving both time and money.” Millwork/door producer TexPly was founded in 1953 and is led by Geoff Yates, who will stay on. Code Plus, founded in 1999, is led by Norm Casagrande, Tim Matz, and Rob Arensberg, all of whom will remain with BMC. Code Plus sells roof and floor trusses and EWP from a 10-acre site in Martinsburg.

SUPPLIER Briefs A&C Lumber, Park Rapids, Mn., suffered significant damage in an April 5 mill fire. Arauco North America has broken ground on a state-of-the-art, $400-million particleboard plant in Grayling, Mi. Start-up is anticipated by late 2018. Dempsey Wood Products , Rowesville, S.C., will invest $7 million over the next five years to add new dry kilns, a planer mill, and upgrades to its sawmill. Allied Building Products added a new branch March 6 in Manahawkin, N.J.

Mullins Oak, Crossville, Tn., was destroyed by a March 31 fire of undetermined origin. Chelsea Building Products, Oakmont, Pa., was acquired by German-based window manufacturer aluplast. Chelsea also launched a new website for its Everlast composite siding: www.everlastsiding.com.

SouthernCarlson, Omaha, Ne., has acquired four-unit River City Building Supply, Sacramento, Ca. Snavely Forest Products , Liberty, N.C., is carrying the full line of Tando exterior cladding products. Guardian Building Products

is now distributing TAMKO’s Envision and EverGrain composite decking to the eastern U.S. from its DCs in Cleveland, Oh.; Waterville, Me.; Baltimore, Md.; and Charlotte, N.C.

U2 Fasteners has released its IAPMO (ER 454) evaluation to become one of few fastener companies that is evaluated and complies with IBC and RBC for corrosion resistance (AC233) and structural strength (AC257). Anniversaries: Russin Lumber, Montgomery, N.Y., 60th … DuPont’s Tyvek brand, 60th … Reliable Lumber & Supply , New Castle, Pa., 60th … RP Lumber, Edwardsville, Il., 40th … South Florida Lumber, Palmetto Bay, Fl., 15th.

Building Products Digest

May 2017

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tating storm, we said we would stay the course until we delivered and opened the finest plywood mill in North America. I am very proud to say today that we have kept that commitment, and that the future for this business is bright,” Andrew Bursky, chairman of Atlas Holdings, said during the April 5 grand opening ceremony. Atlas is the parent of New Wood Resources, under which WP&V is an operating company.

Foundation Takes Over Irwin

A SLATE of dignitaries was on hand for the grand opening of Winston Plywood & Veneer in Louisville, Ms., including (left to right) State Representatives Joey Hood and Carl Mickens, Mississippi Development Authority’s Glenn McCullough, Atlas Holdings CEO Andrew Bursky, Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant, state Speaker of the House Philip Gunn, Louisville mayor Will Hill, WP&V president/CEO Jon Pierce, and WP&V chairman Kurt Liebich.

Mississippi Plywood Mill Back in Business Winston Plywood & Veneer has started up its new plywood mill in Louisville, Ms.—the first such facility constructed in the U.S. in over two decades. The location was once home to a shuttered mill that was destroyed when an F4 tornado struck three years

ago. Today, in its place stands a stateof-the-art plywood facility that employs over 300 workers, covers 287,000 sq. ft., and is over 765 ft. in length—large enough to house five football fields. “When we broke ground here two years ago, in the aftermath of a devas-

Wallboard distributor Foundation Building Materials, Tustin, Ca., has purchased the specialty building products divisions of Irwin Builders Supply Corp., Irwin, Pa. FBM has over 200 branches across the U.S. and Canada, employing more than 3,400. Irwin distributes drywall, metal studs, ceiling and wall systems, insulation and related supplies. “We are pleased to reach an agreement with Irwin and welcome their experienced team to FBM,” said CEO Ruben Mendoza. “Irwin has built a great reputation over its 70-year history and provides FBM with an expanded footprint and leading market position in the Pittsburgh metro area.”

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Building Products Digest

May 2017

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Deckorators Revises Dealer Program Deckorators has introduced the Beyond Ordinary Dealer Program, offering a simpler way for dealers to earn incentives, while expanding their selection of unique outdoor living products. A streamlined, enhanced version of its former Perfect Dealer program, the new program offers: • A one-level program instead of multiple tiers. • Quarterly rebate tiers with rebates up to 8%. • A simple rebate submission process. All enrolled dealers are highlighted on Deckorators.com with a “Beyond Ordinary Dealer” icon that shows they are aligned with the leader in lifestyle-enhancing deck products. Qualifying dealers also receive merchandising displays in their showroom. To qualify for the new program, dealers need to stock an assortment of Deckorators post caps, balusters and accessories; display the products; meet minimum volume tiers per quarter; and make one qualifying purchase per year.

Matthews Adds New Inks for Printing on Engineered Wood Matthews Marking Systems, Pittsburgh, Pa., has developed two new water-fast, water-based inks specifically for drop-on-demand (DOD) valve print technologies for applications in the engineered wood industry. Both inks have been tested and approved as APA trademark inks and are formulated to reduce potential fire hazards in OSB manufacturing plants. SCP-350, a low VOC, low HAPS, pigmented black ink provides excellent UV-resistance, transfer resistance, and

Building Products Digest

May 2017

water-fastness, ensuring a long-lasting mark on engineered wood. SCP-350 is designed for use with Matthews’ 8000+ DOD midi and maxi (7, 16, and 32 valve) size printheads and provides a bold mark on porous and semi-porous substrates. Unassisted dry times range from five seconds to three minutes on semi-porous substrates and accelerates on a relatively warm product. SCP-360A, a dye-based black ink is recommended for use in Matthews’ entire 8000+ DOD printhead product line. Ideal for wood products and porous substrates, SCP-360A features excellent UV-resistance, water-fastness, and is VOC and HAPS-free. The ink’s dry time is five to 60 seconds on ambient temperature product, and accelerates on a relatively warm product. Both inks are available in six 1-liter cases, 4 liters, 5gallon pails, 55-gallon drums, and 275-gallon totes. The new inks are exceeding expectations at early adoption test sites in the OSB and plywood industry, where both are printing a company logo and APA trademark onto wood panels. At these sites, SCP-350 and SCP-360A have proven quick to dry and transfer resistant on OSB sander lines and hot board product lines.

Firestone Buys Gaco Western Firestone Building Products Co., Indianapolis, In., has acquired Gaco Western, Seattle, Wa., a provider of silicone roofing systems and waterproofing/spray foam insulation. The deal, which includes all assets and operations held by Gaco, closed April 3. The acquisition enhances Firestone’s leadership in commercial roofing and allows it to introduce more options to customers with Gaco’s silicone and acrylic liquid coatings.

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IN Memoriam Charles Edward “Ty” Requarth, 88, fourth-generation owner of Requarth Lumber Co., Dayton, Oh., died April 10. He joined the F.A. Requarth Co. in 1945 while still in high school, starting by nailing boxes in the mill. In 1953, after returning from serving with the U.S. Army in Korea, he moved to the drafting room, preparing shop drawings for architectural millwork. Eventually he became co-owner and manager alongside brother Harold Requarth and brother-inlaw Jim Pippenge. He continued to run the millwork operations until retiring in 1994. Joseph T. “Joe” Siwek, 84, owner and president of Siwek Lumber & Millwork, Minneapolis, Mn., passed away April 1. A longtime member of Hoo-Hoo International, he was also a part-time farmer and collector and restorer of antique farm equipment. John J. Fretwell Jr., 88, former owner of Builder’s World, Slidell, La., and executive with Bernard Lumber Co., Slidell, passed away April 5. Robert Gearhart “Bob” Dunn, former owner of Inland Lumber, Princeton, Mn., and state legislator, died March 15. He was 94. After serving in the Marines during World War II, he finished his schooling at Amherst College. After exiting the industry, he served in the state House and Senate from 1965 to 1980.

Jack Merton Hennessee Sr., 86, venerable Tennessee lumberman, died on March 15 after a brief illness. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, his lumber career began at age 15, as an assistant driver for his father’s Hennessee-Welch Lumber Co., Sylva, Tn. He became a full-time employee when his father bought out his partner and formed W.C. Hennessee Lumber Co. He was named VP in 1958 and president in 1960. In 1980, the company merged with Hammermill Paper, and he stayed on for five years as assistant to the president of Hammermill. In 1986 he and his son opened a sawmill in Franklin, Tn. Hennessee also served as president of Hennessee & Monteith Lumber, GMC Hardwoods, and trucking firm Jack M. Hennessee, Inc., until dissolving it in 2009. He was a past president of the North Carolina Forestry Association and Appalachian Lumberman’s Club. Earl Edward Statler, 90, former executive for Baillie Lumber Co., Hamburg, N.Y., died March 29. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, he received a forestry degree from the University of Maine at Orono. He then worked as a forester in Oregon and Washington, before moving to Atlantic Lumber Co., Buffalo, N.Y., as a lumber salesman and buyer. He was transferred to Atlantic’s headquarters in Boston, Ma., and promoted to vice president before joining Baillie in 1969. He retired 21 years later as VP. William J. “Bill” Boor, 87, retired general manager, director and assistant secretary/treasurer of Associated Lumber, Carbondale, Il., died March 17. A graduate of the University of Illinois and veteran of the Army, he joined his father-in-law at the Associated Lumber chain in 1954. In 1963, he was named manager of its largest location. He retired in 1993. He also served on the board of directors of Southern Wholesale Lumber Co., Fairfield, Il., and as president of Flora Lumber, Flora, Il. Harvin Louis “Jim” Betournay, 85, founder of Harvey Lumber Co., Haverhill, N.H., died April 4 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. After four years in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, he started Harvey Lumber in 1958, managing it for 42 years until he retired in 2000. Virginia A. “Ginny” Malbouf-Kempney, 73, retired New York lumber saleswoman, died April 16. She spent several years as in sales for Farney Lumber, Carthage, N.Y., before moving to Minfelt Building Supplies, Watertown, N.Y., in 1980. She retired in 2004. William Robert “Woody” Copeland, 89, owner and operator of N&C Lumber Co., Jasper, Al., died April 11. A pilot, he was a veteran of the 82nd Airborne. Rodolfo S. DelaGarza, 93, former owner of True Value Hardware, Bonne Terre, Mo., died April 15. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran of World War II. Alan Joseph Marek Sr., 73, retired outside salesman with Foxworth Galbraith Lumber, San Antonio, Tx., passed away March 31. Starting in the mid-1960s, he excelled in sales in several industries, including gaining recognition as a FoxworthGalbraith Million Dollar Salesman, before being forced to retired from FoxGal due to cancer.

Building Products Digest

May 2017

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MOVERS & Shakers David C. Davis, ex-Bostwick-Braun, has been appointed president of Spahn & Rose Lumber Co., Dubuque, Ia. Wade Hickson has joined Sherwood Lumber Corp., Melville, N.Y., as senior VP of sales. Brian Luoma has been promoted to president and CEO of The Westervelt Co., Tuscaloosa, Al. He succeeds Mike Case, who has retired. Jason Nelson was promoted to mgr. of Century Lumber, Ainsworth, Ne. Michael Buesgens, ex-Fullerton Lumber, has joined Arrow Building Center, Watertown, Mn., as new business development mgr. Jim Young, ex-BR Sales, has moved to Pacific Pride Building Products, as a regional rep for Arkansas, Oklahoma and north Texas. Mike Howell is the new CFO for American Lumber, Uvalde, Tx. Paul Yater has been named chief information officer for 84 Lumber Co., Eighty Four, Pa. Connor Weed, ex-F.D. Sterritt Lumber, has joined the outside sales team and Ted Cooper, ex-Mid-Cape Home Centers, is a new account mgr. for 84 in Holbrook, Ma.

Local Son Saves Store Weakley-Watson Hardware, Brownwood, Tx., was preparing to shut its doors after 140 years when Brownwood native Weston Jacobs learned of the news while scrolling through his Facebook newsfeed. Displeased, Jacobs wanted to do something about it. Aided by his father, Tim Jacobs, who owns an independent pharmacy in town, he decided to take action. Weston and his wife packed up and returned to Brownwood to be co-owners of the business with his parents. Jacobs looks to update and grow the business, such as by updating the facade and adding new product lines. But he will not change the brand’s name or core values, heartening previous owner Mike Blagg. In addition to keeping the store open for its loyal customers, the transition also allowed all the employees to keep their jobs.

Building Products Digest

Levi Todd, ex-Diamond Hill Plywood, is a new structural specialist with BMC, Greenville, S.C. Brett Butler is Southwest regional sales mgr. and Jeff Feller Midwest regional sales mgr. for DriTac Flooring Products, Clifton, N.J. Chad Lightfield has been named purchasing mgr. for Keene Building Products, Mayfield, Oh. Jeffrey Quill is new as division mgr. of new product development. Mark Straub is now Midwest regional sales mgr. for Keene and sister company Dependable LLC. Andy Kirkcaldy has moved to sales as territory mgr. for Ohio and western Pennsylvania. Kevin Chung is technical services mgr. for Quiet Qurl and GSL product lines. Allie George was promoted to customer service mgr. at sister firm Continental Products, Ltd. Thomas Werner, ex-Würth Baer Supply, is now distribution center mgr. for PrimeSource Building Products, Buffalo Grove, Il. Kevin Sutton, Arauco North America, has been promoted to national accounts mgr. David A. Barr has rejoined the board of directors for Builders FirstSource, Dallas, Tx. Mari B. Pacheco is now controller/ HR mgr. for Decks & Docks Lumber Co., Clearwater, Fl. Scott Clifford, senior VP, Graybar, has been added to the board of directors for Parksite, Batavia, Il. Larry Repar, executive VP/chief customer experience officer, Masonite International, Tampa, Fl., is retiring in August after 22 years with the company. Tony Hair, newly named president of Masonite’s global residential business, will assume responsibility for the customer experience team. Mark Smith joined Forest Economic Advisors, Littleton, Ma., as a partner, responsible for opportunities in New Zealand and Australia. Mike Snell is the new assistant mgr. of Westlake Ace Hardware, Independence, Mo. Kerilyn M. Johnson has been promoted to VP, general counsel, and secretary of Ace Hardware Corp., Oak Brook, Il. Mark Spanswick, ex-W.W. Grainger, is now president and general mgr. of Ace Wholesale Holdings LLC. May 2017

Bryan Crow is now outside sales mgr. with Venture Roofing & Building Supply, Little Rock, Ar. Matthew Hellstern has been appointed CEO of the Americhem Group of companies, Cuyahoga Falls, Oh. He succeeds Rick Juve, who is now chairman. Phil Donaldson, Andersen Corp., Bayport, Mn., was elected 20172019 chairman of the Window & Door Manufacturers Association, succeeding Al Babiuk, Loewen Windows. Vice chair/treasurer is Robert Lewis, Masonite, Tampa, Fl.; executive committee door rep Bob Merrill, Jeld-Wen, Charlotte, N.C.; window rep Steve Tourek, Marvin Windows & Doors, St. Paul, Mn.; and supplier rep Jeff Shilakis, HOPPE North America, Ft. Atkinson, Wi. Stephen Logue, Battle Lumber Co., Wadley, Ga., was elected president of Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association. Mark Tuck, Gates Milling, Gatesville, N.C., was named vice president. Matt Coffindaffer has been appointed executive director of the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association, Washington, D.C. He replaces Jim Kirby, who has left to pursue interests in architecture and building science. Margaret Price, CEO, Ridgefield Supply, Ridgefield, Ct., was named 2017 Woman of the Year by the local Chamber of Commerce. Marty Graw has returned to MungusFungus Forest Products, Climax, Nv., after a festive New Orleans vacation, report co-owners Hugh Mungus and Freddy Fungus.

Thieves Snatch Weapons Authorities are searching for suspects who broke into Ace Hardware, Hillsborough, Fl., and stole dozens of firearms. According to deputies, unidentified suspects cut through a chain lock and smashed the glass door entrance to the garden center, then cut through another chain that blocked the entrance to the store. Inside, they removed 40 handguns and a long rifle. ATF and National Shooting Sports Foundation are offering rewards totaling $15,000 for information leading to arrest and conviction of those responsible. Building-Products.com

Treating industry catches up at AWPA annual meeting It’s a goal of the American Wood Protection Association to help ensure that treated wood products perform satisfactorily for their intended use. So when the association and its members gathered at the Encore at Wynn in Las Vegas April 9-11, they had a lot to talk about. It wouldn’t be an industry event without golf at Revere Lexington Golf Course, and those who weren’t as interested in golf had a chance to participate in the Pickler’s

Prance 5k. The conference then switched gears and began with several task group meetings. While spouses and guests got to tour the Hoover Dam and enjoy some BBQ, business sessions were taking place as well as student research presentations. The ColleyHartford Memorial Lecture & Research Symposium had a segment on cross-laminated timber titled “CLT Exposed: Sunny Architects’ Dreams,

the Rainy Reality, & How to Make Everyone Happy,” that explored the durability of CLT. Jeff Morrell, Oregon State University, also presented a keynote on “Changing Perceptions of Pressure Treated Lumber.” Other programs covered “Marketing Treated Wood Products in 2020” and “Evaluating Preservative Treatments and Durability.” The event closed with an awards reception.

AWPA CONFERENCE drew [1] approximately 250 industry professionals to the Encore at Wynn in Las Vegas, Nv. [2] Motivational speaker John Kriesel, of Still Standing, delivered a keynote address. [3] President Rick Bleskey (left) presented the AWPA Award of Merit to industry consultant Michael H. Freeman. [4] Chris Horvath, Robert Bartek. [5] AWPA executive vice president Colin McCown addresses the audience. [6] Wayne Parsons, Steve Hudson. [7] Carl Morrow, Griffin Brady, Mike Boone. [8] Attendees caught up with each other during refreshment breaks in between sessions.

Building Products Digest

May 2017

Building-Products.com

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The American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) in July 2016, established new guidelines that will require that Ground Contact General Use (UC4A) treated wood be used in the following use applications: • Treated wood when installed less than 6” above the ground. • When treated wood is used in an application that does not permit air circulation or water drainage underneath the structure. • When treated wood is used in an application where vegetation, leaf litter, or other debris will build up and remain in contact with the treated wood product. • When treated wood is used in tropical climates.

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Ground Contact treated wood can be used in Above Ground applications.

High Level Deck Boards

Railings & Accessories

Fence Boards and Rails

Trellis

Lattice

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Ground Contact treated wood can be used in Above Ground applications.

4 5 10

2 6

16 * When treated wood is used in an above ground application where the treated wood component would be considered difficult to maintain, repair or replace and that component is critical to the performance and safety of the structure.

Ground Level Deck

Stair Stringers

Ledger Boards*

Post Supports

Joists*

Beams*

Planter Boxes

Fence Posts

Retaining Walls

Playset Structures

Ground Level Walkway

Raised Garden Bed

Fresh Water Bulk Head

Fresh Water Dock

Fresh Water Dock Posts Floating Dock (Decking, Joists, Beams)

â&#x20AC;˘ When treated wood is wetted on a frequent or recurring basis such as wind and wave action (such as fresh water docks and walkways) or watering systems, swimming pools and hot tubs. â&#x20AC;˘ When treated wood is used in an above ground application where the treated wood component would be considered difficult to maintain, repair or replace and that component is critical to the performance and safety of the structure. This standard change will affect joists and beams used in above ground decks and fresh water docks, including floating docks.

NAWLA SPECIAL ISSUE

A trusted partner in education R

EPEATED STUDIES have shown the correlation between employee training and increased retention, performance and satisfaction. Each of those outcomes drive improved company performance through revenue growth, reduced costs or a combination of the two. Investing in professional development, and promoting that commitment to employee growth, can also provide a competitive advantage when recruiting new professionals to your company as well. Most companies recognize the benefits of and need for such programs. For smaller companies, however, or those with dispersed workforces, a formal employee training program can be a complex and expensive venture. In-house training, whether it’s developed by your own trainers or led by an outsourced expert, is a good option for larger teams who regularly require education on the same topic, such as customer service, or topics that are universally relevant for all employees, such as legal or regulatory topics. For other scenarios, the most cost and time-effective way to build individual skill sets or competencies may be to find opportunities offered by third-party organizations that align to the personalized development objectives of your individual employees. Within the forest products industry, the North American Wholesale Lumber Association provides a suite of educational courses and events

Building Products Digest

specifically for lumber industry professionals at various stages of their career. Through a combination of dedicated programs and education sessions at its events, NAWLA delivers highly relevant education in an environment that fosters relationshipbuilding with fellow industry peers.

For the New Industry Professional Wood Basics The four-day Wood Basics Course employs a blend of classroom training, field experience and university resources to introduce new hires to forest operations, sawmill production, transportation and sales, and negotia-

tions, in a collaborative learning environment. “Having been in the industry only one month, all of the information provided was of value to me,” said 2017 spring Wood Basics participant Austin Higgins, Tampa International Forest Products. “I especially enjoyed the discussions on forestry and mill operations—two subjects I was particularly unfamiliar with. I think this course is best suited for people who are very new to the lumber industry. Because of the open nature of our discussion, I never once felt behind or discouraged from asking questions.” Hoss Peterson of Cedar Creek, (Continued on next page)

Wood Basics

May 2017

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May 2017

Building Products Digest

nization. “The depth of the next level will require a different set of thoughts,” said Sam Barranco, a senior account executive at Tampa International Forest Products and 2016 EMI participant. “Legal, hiring, firing, etc. The job of an executive will require an even deeper study. This overview is necessary.” In addition to the insight attendees will gain from industry experts and experienced instructors, the small class size provides numerous opportunities to hold meaningful conversations with peers during the week. “I was able to learn from the others in the group as well as from the instructors,” said Kellie Radzik, chief financial officer at Snavely Forest Products and 2016 attendee. I asked them specific questions about the industry that I knew would not be covered in the sessions.” In an effort to showcase the realworld applicability of this course, each participant is encouraged to bring key issues and first-hand experiences to discuss throughout the course. Registration is now open for the 2017 course, and enrollment is limited to 16 attendees. Learn more and register now at nawla.org.

EMI in the classroom

Leadership Summit

EMI in the woods

another spring 2017 attendee, echoed those sentiments. “There was a ton of great information presented. The mill tour was a huge help, as were the informational lectures on the first day. I now have a deeper understanding of this industry, and feel it will be a great help to me to be able to talk the talk when I get back to my sales role.” Due to the popularity of the Wood Basics Course, NAWLA has added a third course again for 2017. This summer, Virginia Tech will host the program for the first time. To learn more or register for the new summer course, July 17-20, 2017, or the fall course at Oregon State University, Sept. 11-14,

Building Products Digest

visit nawla.org. Enrollment is limited, and courses fill up quickly on a firstcome, first served basis.

For the C-Suite EMI For those seeking to enhance their executive skills or prepare for an executive role, NAWLA offers the Executive Management Institute (EMI). In 2017, this four-day course will take place Sept. 11-14 at OSU alongside Wood Basics. Instruction on topics such as managerial accounting, strategic marketing and branding, sales management and HR law will prepare attendees to oversee a successful orgaMay 2017

Each year, NAWLA also hosts a Leadership Summit for decision makers within the forest products industry. Through a combination of education sessions and networking activities, the event prepares attendees to grow their businesses, knowledge and networks. Executives from companies such as BNSF Railroad, Gorman Brothers, Universal Forest Products, and Trex Co. led presentations at the 2017 event. They shared their perspectives and lessons learned on topics ranging from recruiting and retaining top talent to identifying and capitalizing on your competitive advantage. Through receptions and optional activities, participants discovered trends and best practices while strengthening their relationships with peers and industry leaders. Of his 2017 experience, Paul D. Owen, president of Vanport International, said, “Met new people, learned new ways of thinking and dealing with issues and solidified existing relationships.” The 2018 Leadership Summit will take place April 8-10 at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa in Building-Products.com

Austin, Tx. Registration opens later this year.

For the Experienced Professional Wood Masters NAWLA debuted a two-day Wood Masters course for industry professionals with at least three years of experience prior to the 2015 Traders Market. That year, the sold-out class focused on selling, negotiation and communication skills. Of his experience, Philip Herman of Allweather Wood/Humboldt Redwood said, “Negotiation is a skill like any other that needs to be practiced to become proficient. I think this is a great area to review. I will certainly apply the information in my daily work.” In 2016, the course focused on advanced negotiation and memory skills to help participants retain their new-found knowledge once they returned to the office. Wood Masters, according to 2016 participant Jerrett Long of Idaho Forest Group, “enhanced my skills in learning how to effectively communicate with customers. I found the (negotiation) tactics to be very helpful and found out

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Wood Masters

how to identify these tactics and counter them with my own.” The third annual Wood Masters will be hosted Nov. 7-8. Once again, a combination of industry and subjectmatter experts will employ case studies, presentations and group work to introduce and reinforce course topics. Because this unique training takes

May 2017

place immediately before Traders Market in Chicago, NAWLA encourages sales professionals, traders and other lumber professionals to maximize their development opportunities. Registration opens this June on the NAWLA website, nawla.org, and must be completed separately from the Traders Market registration.

Building Products Digest

NAWLA SPECIAL ISSUE

Wholesalers:

Defining supply chain value BY JIM DERMODY SEABOARD INTERNATIONAL FOREST PRODUCTS

industry is filled with innovative products, creative designs, and intelligent, competitive people. Our insatiable demand for efficiency is often directed towards the supply chain. The history of lumber wholesaling dates back to the inception of lumber production in the American west of the 19th century. In the early days wholesaling performed as vital a function as it does today but with a different emphasis. Then, communications were rudimentary, done by mail or telegraph. The wholesaler was responsible for expediting shipments over an extended period of time. This was critical to helping suppliers and consumers alike achieve their goals in markets that even then were ever-fluctuating. The housing industry grew dramatically from just over 100,000 single-family starts in the beginning of the 20th century to over 1 million by 1950. Railroads were eager to get a share of transcontinental traffic and the wholesaler was a significant player in the process. This value evolved over time as transit hold days were eliminated through railroad regulation and excesses were worked out of the system. Industry supply consolidation, massive growth of truck-delivered shipments over increasingly larger distances, and credit insurance led some wholesalers to grow larger and others to become specialized in certain markets and products. Today, wholesale brokers continue to supply liquidity to commodity markets and many are the top customer and top supplier to their trading partners. Manufacturers, by nature, are production-based. There is a symbiotic relationship between production and sales— make it every day, sell it every day. Conversely, industry consumers want to purchase the right amount of product at the right time at the right price. A wholesaler can exist and grow only as long as they provide value to both supplier and consumer. The wholesaler cannot solely be a supplier of material but must be a true partner. Sales reign supreme on a wholesale floor, but sales cannot happen without pouring customer service gas on it and HE BUILDING PRODUCTS

Building Products Digest

May 2017

into it. It’s all geared to getting the customer what they want when they want it at a hyper-competitive price. The broker’s niche is whatever the customer wants. Brokers spend 100% of the time thinking about markets. Where to move excess supply, how to convert and combine what a mill produces into what a customer wants, and how to most effectively distribute it into the marketplace. A broker is willing to take risk, able to manage the stress of millions of dollars of physical inventory in highly volatile markets, provide just-in-time solutions on one call and forward pricing mechanisms on the next. They need to earn their trading partners trust each and every day. Successful brokers see the market from a global perspective and their diversified supply and consumption base affords that opportunity. This unrestricted consumption base separates them from others in the channel. Exposure to all segments of the marketplace provides value to the wholesaler’s manufacturing partners and the wholesaler’s consumption partners. National home centers to publicly-owned pro dealers and distributors, independently-owned retailers, small industrial manufacturers, multifamily jobbers, and the massive developers of our infrastructure system are all served by the wholesaler. The methods of manufacturing evolve over time as do customer needs. The price of 2x4 is always changing. The value a broker provides must remain constant in order for them to survive. A broker can be either the lion or gazelle, but when the sun comes up, they better be running. During a recent conversation with a customer, I commended his astute market knowledge and timing. He shared, “I couldn’t do it without the handful of good traders I partner with. They always have my best interests in mind.” A broker can never be “off the market.” – Jim Dermody is president of Seaboard International Forest Products, Nashua, N.H. Reach him at jim.dermody@fctg.com. Building-Products.com

NAWLA SPECIAL ISSUE

Ready for a re-brand? Step-by-step guide to creating a new brand for an old product BY SABRINA SECCARECCIA GRACIOUS LIVING CORP. AND NAWLA MARKETING COMMITTEE MEMBER

re-brand a product line can be a difficult one for a company, especially when it has a long history and/or strong affinity in the marketplace. You risk alienating customers, creating confusion, and investing significant resources in an initiative that ultimately may not yield the desired results. However, when done successfully, you can reach new audience(s), better differentiate yourself from the competition, and increase sales and revenue. Recent re-branding successes that illustrate the benefits of a rebrand on the consumer side include Apple and Old Spice. At Gracious Living Innovations, we began this journey more than two years ago with a brand that was purchased by our company. There were a number of considerations that drove our decision, most notably, our desire to create a brand that more closely aligned to our company, which is an open, forward-thinking, innovative and modern company and brand. We also wanted to remove any association with the previous manufacturer, and position the new brand as a more retail-driven product. We needed to develop a brand, essentially from scratch, that created a positive feeling with end consumers. The previous brand was centered around a contractor base and we believed that the awareness was concentrated within that audience. Due to the smaller size of our comHE DECISION TO

Building Products Digest

pany, I had limited resources to work with for this project. Everything we did was kept in house. While this allowed those of us with the greatest familiarity with our company and its existing brands to drive the project, it was a time consuming endeavor. Any company that is considering a rebranding initiative should make sure they can dedicate sufficient staff resources to each phase of the project—from research to launch—to ensure its success. For those of us who don’t have Apple’s marketing budget, that can mean finding more creative approaches to the same work. With our product, target audience and positioning defined, the next step was finding the right name. Overall, we were looking for a clean slate that would allow the brand to grow with our rapidly expanding deck tile product line. We wanted it to be short, consumer-friendly, relatable to the busiMay 2017

ness, and emitting a fresh and comfortable feel. We also knew that it had to be a word—not an acronym, and would allow the flexibility of adding a brand extension in the future. I began Googling words, finding synonyms and creating a list based on those criteria. Once a list was defined, we split the entire company into three focus groups, and I facilitated each of them. We made sure that these groups were an open forum for brainstorming, working off the list as a starting point. After the first round, I revised the list based on the feedback I had received, deleting some old and adding some new. I took this updated list to a second round of focus groups, which followed the same format and structure as the first. For the final round of all-company feedback, we brought our entire company into one room to vote on the final list. Using this information, the Building-Products.com

marketing and executive teams choose the word that would eventually become our brand. The transparency with which we worked through this phase, and the multiple opportunities for everyone to provide input, helped ensure buy-in across the company. We chose the name Aura. It conveyed light, clean, fresh, comfort and modern. From there we started doing research on the name, trademarks, existing products under a similar or same name, websites, social media and similar uses within the U.S. and Canada. After we determined that there were no legal or trademarking issues, our art director created at least 25 different logo options for that name, with different color combinations, fonts, imagery and so on. Once the logo and color schemes were selected, we presented them to the executive team, received necessary approvals and moved along with the design of our marketing outlets (print catalogues, packaging, online, social media, website and so on). To anyone considering a rebrand, I would offer the following recommendations based on my lessons learned. First, having an organized process is critical to its success. Assigning one or two project leads is the best approach. The fewer people that need to be involved in every detail of things, the better. The project leaders can be held accountable for soliciting the input of others as necessary. Additionally, any focus groups you conduct need to be open brainstorming sessions. That being said, it is also important to manage the negative personalities to ensure that you can continue to allow creativity and unhindered progress and participation. A facilitator needs to be a strong enough personality to guide the process without offering any opinions on the feedback. Since the rebranded product under Aura Outdoor Living was launched two years ago, our business with the deck tile program has increased three-fold. We are now selling within North America and through a major retailer in Europe. The brand is being received very well on the consumer side. From a marketing and design standpoint, we are developing and creating material that directly relates to our business and our customers. The flexibility of the brand and the brand extensions are huge factors in keeping the positive momentum going. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sabrina Seccareccia is marketing coordinator for Gracious Living Corp., Woodbridge, Ontario, and a member of NAWLAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s marketing committee.

Brand vs. Logo Your brand is much more than a logo. It is a promise to the customer that the organization must fill in everything that it says or does. It is every single touch-point your customers and prospects have with your organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;from your website to customer service. In fact, the logo and visual identity are usually the last pieces to create once you have assembled the building blocks of your brand, which can include, your vision and mission, brand position, key and targeted messages and name. Once you have built this foundation, you can develop a visual identity that represents your brand and helps trigger an emotional response based on awareness and perception of your brand. Components of your visual identity include logo, slogan, color palette, and designs that support it.

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CONNECT

LEARN

CREATE T

REG GIONAL MEEETINGS

Access trennding industry insight and participate in valuable networkingg opportunities with local custoomers and suppliers inn your area. Attend onne of the upcoming NAW WLA RRegional meetings: Vancouver: April 27 Birmingham: May 4 San Diego: D June 27

Learn more and register at www.naw wla.org/regionals May 2017

Building Products Digest

NAWLA SPECIAL ISSUE

What’s trending in transportation? BY GAIL RUTKOWSKI NASSTRAC

is constant in transportation is that it is always changing. As shippers and carriers find new and better ways of doing business, entire industries have been spawned to respond to their requests and needs for assistance. However, the old tried and true options are sometimes still a good bet. Remember the old adage “everything old is new again?” Well it is certainly true in transportation. Time is money in transportation management, and any solution that reduces time in transit will result in savings regardless of mode. I’ve detailed a few trends I have been seeing among our member base that I feel are worth sharing. NE THING THAT

Pool Distribution This year’s NASSTRAC Shipper of the Year award winner, VWR, a global distributor of laboratory and production equipment redesigned their

Building Products Digest

West Coast shipping operations, incorporating a newly designed pool distribution strategy. Overall, this adjustment reduced demurrage and drayage costs, improved next-day delivery, and greatly increased their efficiency in the region. Extra planning produced a sound strategy to streamline operations at the Port of Long Beach, resulting in far fewer delays and cutting costly demurrage charges. At the same time, truckload and pool distribution largely replaced the costly less-than-truckload (LTL) moves, again resulting in fewer delays and reduced cost. The solution includes pool distribution from VWR’s distribution center located in Visalia, Ca., to final-mile couriers that specialize in next day delivery service in certain geographic areas. LTL and parcel customer orders that have numerous destination points are consolidated on full TL shipments for the May 2017

longest distance traveled and then dispersed into final mile deliveries across the West Coast. The result is the West Coast operation has improved shipping performance, continuing to provide next day delivery service to customers while also reducing expediting costs. VWR is more competitive by exceeding customer service expectations, promoting sustainability, and enabling customers to track orders online. A side benefit is improved relations with carriers by providing high volume business to its TL carriers as well as smaller couriers.

TMS – Everybody’s Doing It A Transportation Management System (TMS) is a crucial tool for controlling the costs of moving goods. Designed to automate the transportation component of the supply chain, this powerful software enables large companies to manage scheduling, Building-Products.com

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routing, carrier oversight, load tendering, and consolidation all in one place. According to industry group MHI, the larger shipper has become more efficient and accurate, but what about smaller shippers? The full range of capabilities includes a bigger toolbox than they need or can afford. Fortunately for them, cloud-based platforms and softwareas-a-service (SaaS) options bring TMS capabilities closer to a wide range of users. The marketplace is changing and TMS providers are seeking to defend their turf against 3PLs that have historically been providing this service to the small and medium size shipper market. Many smaller shippers are choosing TMS products that are offered on a SaaS basis, subscribing to the cloud-based software for a relatively modest monthly fee rather than footing the cost of on premise computing equipment and an IT staff.

“Dim Weight” Pricing Parcel and LTL shippers that understand the significance of moves by the nation’s two biggest carriers to apply “dimensional weight” pricing to all their U.S. ground shipments are trying to blunt its impact—a sign that the pricing change should be taken seriously by all shippers. Recently, a survey conducted by Niagara University and DC Velocity was taken of 146 parcel and LTL shippers, found that about half had a good understanding of so-called “dim weight” pricing, under which delivery rates are based on a parcel’s dimensions rather than its actual weight. Aware of the impact of the new policies, about 46% of better informed shippers have already negotiated pricing adjustments with their carriers and have made changes in the packaging processes to shrink parcel cube and avoid a

significant rate increase that would accompany the change in the carrier formula. By contrast, more than half of the shippers who said they lacked a strong understanding of the pricing scheme had taken no action at the time of the study, and only 20% of those respondents had made any adjustments to their packaging. In all, 27% of respondents said they had done nothing in response to the carriers’ actions, meaning they had accepted the rate increases that accompanied the changes in the pricing model. Over the years, parcel and LTL shippers have benefited from carriers’ under-reliance on dimensioning systems. Most LTL carriers had no equipment at all, resorting to tape measures and rules… hardly a precise method to verify shipment density. The explosive growth of ecommerce, resulting in light and bulkier shipments resulted in package weight going down but cube going up. LTL carriers that advocate dimensioning have said that it will not only yield more accurate pricing outcomes but also reduce the frequency of so-called carrier chargebacks and the hassle that often accompanies them. Anyone who has gotten into a dispute with a carrier over freight classification or pricing differentials on cubic capacity knows how painful that can be. The growing use of dimensioning equipment will force shippers to do a better job of preparing their freight for tender. Those that don’t will face rates higher than they’ve ever paid before. The responsibility for proper packaging and palletization has now been pushed back onto the shipper. Are you prepared to manage the function?

The “Uberization” of Freight The way shipping works for most companies today is by going through brokers who call trucking companies and arrange the best deal for their customers while taking a commission. The Uber Freight marketplace hopes to eliminate that middleman and offer shippers real-time pricing of what it will cost to move their goods based on supply and demand. And, yes, that might mean there’s even surge pricing for trucks, although a lot of the marketplace details are still being worked out. There are already start-ups out there trying to build their own “Uber for trucking” seeing the same opportunity as Uber does, but it is a tough nut to crack. Some of these start-ups have crashed and burned already. If Uber Freight is successful at marketing “Uber for trucking,” it could serve as a gateway for autonomous vehicles. Last year, Uber acquired a tech startup, Otto, specializing in trucking transportation. In a flash, the Uberization of trucking went from hypothetical to working proposition. The question is, will it succeed? Could Uber work for trucking? There are already a number of companies out there that purport to offer online services and mobile apps to match trucks with loads. Whether they have been at all successful is another matter. Stay tuned for more on this topic as the year proceeds. While I highlighted a few major trends and hot topics in transportation, this is by no means an exhaustive list. Unknowns continue to be the norm in transportation. Weather-related disruptions, regulatory and legislative restrictions (though our current administration signaled a change here), and the continued deterioration of our country’s infrastructure will continue to challenge shippers now and into the future. – Gail Rutkowski is executive director of NASSTRAC (National Shippers Strategic Transportation Council), Chicago, Il.

Building Products Digest

May 2017

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NAWLA SPECIAL ISSUE

Succession planning What to do when there is no “next” in line BY MARK McLEAN ROSEBURG FOREST PRODUCTS AND NAWLA MARKETING COMMITTEE MEMBER

UCCESSION PLANNING is a key consideration for any company in any line of work; but having an “heir to the throne” is of monumental importance for industries—like the wood products sector—that are largely populated by family businesses. Our firms tend to be very relationship-oriented; they’re built on handshake integrity. We trade hundreds of millions of dollars every day on a verbal commitment, and everyone keeps their word wherever they are in the supply chain. Maintaining these trusted relationships with customers and vendors is crucial when leadership turns over and/or business structure changes, and succession planning is essential to that continuity. Despite the potential ramifications of having an executive vacuum, many firms are making do without a succession plan and hoping that the worst-case scenario never happens. Some procrastinate on the process of adopting a plan; others blindly believe they will never have a need for one; and yet others simply hold their breath, counting on a family member to step in and the chips to all just fall into place when the unplanned occurs. What often happens instead is that key members of the executive team and high-level managers are dissatisfied with the sudden and forced changes; many opt to leave, and the organization finds itself in flux.

The Options When circumstances—whether anticipated, like a retirement, or unforeseen, such as an untimely death—create a gap in leadership, decision-makers can respond in several different ways. The obvious choice with family-owned businesses is to hand off to the next generation—typically a relative of the current company head. But what if the existing CEO doesn’t have any children? Or what if the child and/or relative has chosen a different career path? As an alternative, companies can create an ESOP

Building Products Digest

May 2017

(employee stock ownership plan) and sell the business to the people on its payroll; this requires a corporate culture where workers are interested in more than just a job. Other options might be to sell to an industry consolidator or venture capital firm, or to merge with another company.

The Roseburg Experience Alternatively, you can follow the example set by Roseburg Forest Products, which has been family-managed for two generations—or roughly 80 years. Our former president and CEO just retired in 2016 at age 75; but years of succession planning made for a smooth transition. Although he has three children who are dedicated to and passionate about the industry and the business established and managed by their grandfather and father respectively, they did not have the desire to take over the dayto-day operations. Knowing this, Roseburg assembled an outside board of directors just over a decade ago to co-exist alongside the family board. The directors on this outside board, whose own successes are not necessarily tied to the company’s fortunes, were tasked with providing Building-Products.com

unbiased, third-party counsel on succession planning and other issues. Not long after establishing the second board, Roseburg began developing a professional management team to help determine the successor to our soon-to-retire leader. Each individual on the team was exceptional in their own right, and the president eventually selected his replacement from this elite group. Although the new president/CEO was not a direct descendant of the outgoing executive, the family retained ownership of the company—which is now poised for stability for at least one more generation, or another 30 to 40 years. It was a long-term process, but well worth the time and effort put into it. A large part of our success can be attributed to a focus on cohesiveness among executive team members. Pat Lencioni, an authority and author on business management, says there are two types of firms: “smart” companies, where everybody is very good at what they do but don’t necessarily mesh personality-wise, and “healthy” companies, where there is a huge focus on relationships and personality—but the leaders are also smart. Assembling an executive team that has this type of cohesive interpersonal chemistry will likely take time and involve multiple iterations. When our former president began building his executive team, he was careful to choose candidates who not only shared a common purpose but who also got along well. That, along with professional excellence, is a critical element in a successful business environment. When it is absent, there is a risk that executives might move on; and, believe it, one person can make a huge difference in the culture of an organization.

Building-Products.com

The absolutely most important thing is to have an executive team in place that works well together and that has each other’s backs. If you bring in an outsider who doesn’t understand the culture that’s been developed, then you run the risk of those current executives, leaving to pursue other opportunities, creating further turmoil in the ranks. In summary, Priority #1 is to get prepared. You cannot assume that it will all come together naturally; it takes a great deal of work and effort. I also would recommend that if you’re a family-owned organization and don’t have an outside board already, that you commit to putting one together. And even if you’re in a leadership role and plan on being around for the long term, it’s important to build your organization so that you ultimately can select someone—family or otherwise—from your current executive team. It’s also critical that the executive team you have in place includes individuals who are supportive of each other, for the good of the whole. The next step, if you haven’t thought about it, is to get the family together and ask the important questions. Is there a natural successor who is qualified and wants to step forward for a future leadership position? If not, is maintaining family ownership the preferred direction, or would the owners rather divest of the business? Regardless of how you approach succession planning, the point is that it must be addressed and addressed now, before any turbulent events occur. “Hope” is not a strategy! – Mark McLean is director of marketing for Roseburg Forest Products, Springfield, Or., and a member of NAWLA’s marketing committee.

May 2017

Building Products Digest

NAWLA SPECIAL ISSUE

Business analytics Benchmarking yourself against the industry BY ANTHONY MUCK DMSI AND NAWLA MARKETING COMMITTEE MEMBER

ENCHMARKING CAN BE a useful tool for companies to determine their standing within the industry. It offers a snapshot of both areas where you have strengths and areas where you should focus more attention as a company. There are, however, nuances to such efforts. For example, you can compare your company to other firms in the industry; or, you can compare your own processes and how you handle your business against itself. Oftentimes, people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t focus on benchmarking their own customers or suppliers, but this can prove to be just as beneficial a strategy in order to enhance your business. Many in our industry tend to maintain standards put in place with long-term customers that actually need revision because they are no longer the best option for the business. A good example would be a customer that has great terms but never pays on time. If you compare that to the volume of orders and analyze that against all of your customers, you may find that such a customer should not be getting these great terms. You can take the same metrics and apply them to pricing. For example, if you have to deliver to a customer daily, or three or four times per week, with smaller orders, you could potentially be losing profit or margins because of the added delivery expenses. Renegotiating the terms with this customer to transition into a weekly order instead could protect a lot of margin and profit for yourself. Benchmarking allows for such determinations to be made, and for any subsequent adjustments that would best benefit your business. For our industry, there are several different areas that you might want to focus on when beginning the benchmarking process. Profit and total footage sold, for example and among others, are easy ones to remember. Other metrics that are sometimes overlooked are more accounting based, such as average days to pay, and comparing that by customers. Taking into account various metrics when benchmarking can help you develop a more well-rounded perspective on your business, which can then help you

Building Products Digest

May 2017

make more either holistic or specified changes, should you find it necessary.

Data Benchmarking inherently requires the collection of data. Figuring out how your business is doing, where it is doing well, and where it could use some work involves gathering and analyzing the relevant information. To that end, there are different ways to go about collecting the information you need. If it is possible, you should see if you can control data internally before reaching out to an expert. This is important. By utilizing internal staff in the benchmarking process, you are afforded the benefit of individuals who already know the inner-workings of your business and who may be able to spot things an outsider cannot. This familiarity can lend itself to a thorough and genuinely invested benchmarking process. Moreover, if you do then reach out to an expert, your staff will be wellversed in the data, streamlining any work an outside expert will do, which can save all parties time and money. That being said, data collection can always be a tough part of the benchmarking process. Many people see themBuilding-Products.com

selves getting buried in excel sheets or multiple-page reports. This is where an expert or system can come into place to help you make sense of the data. Business intelligence, for example, has been a hot topic in recent years. Technology is advancing, and there are many systems out there that can help collect your data and give your staff, or an outside expert, an easily consumable report to help you make educated decisions. Once you start taking steps that open up your business to external evaluation, peer groups can also be a good way to assess your position within the industry. While this can be challenging, because companies may not want to share information with others, the results from a peer evaluation could potentially offer fresh insights and therefore be worth the effort. Other industry associations will also often partake in such efforts as well, so engaging with your counterparts can both provide you with information from people or companies who are familiar with the industry and may prove easier than you think.

A Comprehensive Lumber Industr y Introduction

Standards Businesses that are willing to look at their data will likely stay ahead of their peers, as they are more in tune with both the inner workings of their own companies and what their customers want and need. An awareness regarding the intricacies of all aspects of your business can help you make better business decisions. Collecting the data and making sound decisions based on your benchmarking information can help give you an edge. In order to keep that edge, however, it is also critical to remember to abide by the necessary and relevant regulations and standards of compliance. Most importantly, if data is not meant to be shared, it should not be shared. The privacy and security of data is, as it should be, the biggest concern for businesses and business owners, particularly in today’s ever-expanding technology- and cyber-driven society. It can be extremely dangerous if your data falls into the hands of a competitor, so you need to ensure that you are taking the basic steps to protect the information you are collecting. It is important to keep in mind that while comparing yourself to others in the industry has its benefits, it can also prove to be a challenging task, especially when you are trying to balance those efforts with the security of your data. This is why you should start off by benchmarking yourself as a company first—you are able to collect the data you need while also ensuring the information is secure. Benchmarking can prove to be a beneficial tool for business owners looking to better their business or get ahead of the competition. It offers you a chance to see what your company is really doing, how your efforts are impacting your customers and how you compare to other companies in your industry. By collecting the relevant data, you will have an enhanced understanding of how and when to utilize your resources, and of any changes that need to be made in order to improve your company performance. Benchmarking will help you move forward with your business, and better position you for success within the industry. – Anthony Muck is manager of customer support for DMSi, Omaha, Ne., and a member of North American Wholesale Lumber Association’s marketing committee.

Building-Products.com

WOOD O BAS SICS Summer and Fall Reggistration Ope p n Prepare Your New Hires for Success Summer Virginia T Teech July 17-20, 2017

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Visit nawla.org / WoodBasics to learn more and register. May 2017

Building Products Digest

NAWLA SPECIAL ISSUE

Study the competition BY DAVE KAHLE

“I

’ M CONCERNED ABOUT what my competition may be doing. I know I should be aware of what they’re doing, but I’m not sure how I can find that out.” This is an issue that’s growing in importance. Our industry is heating up and becoming more competitive. All around us things are changing at an ever-increasing rate. That means that it’s more important than ever for you to be aware of what your competitors are doing so that you don’t get blindsided or seriously outmaneuvered. That happened to me. To this day, I still get a sick feeling in my stomach as I remember the day I lost my largest account to my arch competitor. It was an account that made up 20% of my total volume. In my blissful ignorance, I was content to grow my business by calling on the

Building Products Digest

May 2017

end users and purchasing department, while my competition was successfully building a relationship with the administration. The result? My best account signed a prime vendor, sole-source agreement with my competitor, and within 60 days, I was almost totally out of that account. I was totally blindsided. That’s a lesson that sticks with me, and one from which you can learn. To become good at knowing what your competition is up to, begin by thinking of yourself a little differently. If you’ve read my book How to Excel at Distributor Sales, you know that I believe that distributor salespeople must see themselves as “managers of information” as well as “sellers of stuff.” To be effective in the Information Age economy, you must become adept at col-

Building-Products.com

lecting, storing and using good information. The knowledge of what your competition is doing is one such piece of information. Begin by consciously collecting little bits and pieces of information at every opportunity. For example, you may have lost a bid or a particular piece of business to your competitors. Rather than just moping about it, use it as a learning opportunity. Try to find out from your customer why they awarded the business the way they did. If it was price alone, try to find out how much lower their price was. If it’s something else, find out what. That information won’t help for that particular piece of business, but it may give you an insight into the pricing policies of your competition. Write the information down on a 3x5 card, or piece of scrap paper. Take your good customers to lunch, and casually see if you can steer the conversation in such a way as to learn something about your competition. Keep your eyes open to the coming and going of competitive salesmen. Note when you see them, and in what account. Subtly probe the manufacturer reps with whom you work. See if they can give you some insight into the strategies and tactics they’ve seen. Be sensitive and aware of competitive literature, business cards and price quotes lying around. And don’t forget to talk with the other salespeople who work for your company to get their insights. All these are ways to collect bits and pieces of information. By themselves, they won’t help much. But, if you combine these bits and pieces, you may very well see trends, uncover strategies, and discover tactics your competition is using. As you collect each bit of information, capture it by writing it down, and putting the note in a manila folder marked “competition.” If you’re automated, type the information into your computer, and store it in either a Word or database file. Regardless, what you’re doing is assembling a quantity of information. Diligently collect those bits and pieces of information, and file them away. After you collected a quantity of these, you’ll be able to open that file on a regular basis, consider all the pieces of information, and discover a great deal about your competitors. The trick is to consistently collect and store information. Eventually Building-Products.com

you’ll assemble an accurate picture. It’s like the popular game show Wheel of Fortune. When Vanna White turns over one letter, it doesn’t give you much of a picture of the total answer. But after she’s turned over several of these small individual pieces, the whole becomes clear and the answer to the riddle is simple to understand. That’s the way collecting information about your competition works. The back of an old business card on which you noted that you saw a competitive salesperson showing a new carbide line, by itself, doesn’t mean much. But if you filed that along with all the bits and pieces of information you’ve collected, and then pulled it all out and analyzed it, you might see an entirely different situation. Suppose you reviewed that business card note, and combined it with the note you made to yourself that you saw some sales literature on the competitive carbide line on the desk of one of your purchasing agents, and then saw that you lost a major bid to the competition because he quoted a new line at lower than traditional prices. All at once you’ve uncovered a potential threat to your business. Clearly, your competitor is pushing a new, lower-price carbide line. You didn’t learn that from any one piece of information, but rather from the combination of all those pieces, considered as a whole. The key to uncovering that information, to discovering what your competition is up to, is to consistently collect pieces of information, store them, and then analyze them as a whole from time to time. Some of the best companies I deal with do that—and take it one layer deeper. They meet from time to time in sales meetings, and share the information each individual salesperson has collected. The sum of all the information collected by the entire sales force is bigger and greater than that of any one person. So, the composite information, collected by the entire sales force and assembled and analyzed by the sales manager, gives the company an insightful picture of the competition.

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– Dave Kahle is a sales trainer, presenter and author of 12 books, including the best-selling How to Sell Anything to Anyone Anytime. Reach him at (616) 451-9377 or dave@davekahle.com.

May 2017

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Building Products Digest

NAWLA SPECIAL ISSUE

Invaluable interactions await you at the 2017 Traders Market N

more specifically, the in-person exposure to current and prospective business partners those networking opportunities provide, are consistently cited as the most important factors in the decision to attend the North American Wholesale Lumber Association’s Traders Market. A recurring theme in the feedback from who attended the 2016 event was the immeasurable value of those interactions. Here are a few examples: “The contacts we meet and the ability to introduce our products to wholesalers all at one venue is invaluable,” said Ted Whitehouse, director of business development for Century Aluminum Railings. “The networking opportunity provides a return that is priceless,” said Eric Quackenbush, a trader with Viking Forest Products. “Meeting customers/potential customers face-to-face is invaluable,” said KayCee Halstrom of Zip-O-Log Mills.

ETWORKING AND ,

Building Products Digest

May 2017

“Doing newsletters and announcements has been positive, but it still can’t beat the face-to-face interaction.” With its return to the Hyatt Regency Chicago Nov. 810, the 2017 Traders Market will deliver countless opportunities to build and strengthen relationships—and create business opportunities—in one of the most historically popular venues for that event. “The ease of travel in and out of the city, extensive variety of options for entertaining customers and prospects after the event closes each day, and features of the Hyatt Regency like the BIG Bar make Chicago a destination veteran Traders Market attendees enjoy coming back to,” said Steve Killgore, senior vice president of Solid Wood Business at Roseburg Forest Products and 2017 Traders Market committee chair. “The Traders Market committee is excited to host the 2017 event there, and we expect we will continue the growth trend we’ve seen in attendees, exhibitors and sponsors at recent events.” For more than 20 years, the key players across the lumber supply chain—wholesalers, manufacturers, and transportation and related service providers—have converged at the Traders Market for the chance to accelerate their companies’ long-term growth and success. “The Traders Market is the best trade show value in the forest products industry,” said Killgore. “In less than two days on show floor, you can meet and conduct business face-to-face with more than 250 leading manufacturers and distributors, build or renew relationships and hear updates and trends from across North America—all in one convenient location. Through conversations with peers and service providers, you can also discover tools and best practices for increasing operational efficiencies and cost savings at your company.” The central feature of the Traders Market, its trade show floor, will retain a similar schedule and layout as in years past, to help attendees maximize networking opportunities throughout Thursday Nov. 9 and the morning of Friday Nov. 10. In addition to the many connections attendees will make just by walking the aisles during show hours, there are two networking receptions where buyers and sellers can continue conversations at the event. Other popular aspects of the event that participants will Building-Products.com

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12 experience in Chicago include Networking Central for impromptu meetings on the show floor, an eventfocused mobile app with interactive floor plan and attendee messaging capabilities for ease in locating and scheduling meetings with exhibitors, and enlightening education sessions. Registration opens in June for the Traders Market and the Wood Masters course. Those interested in exhibiting may also secure their booth space now, on a first-come first-served basis. Visit www.nawla.org to learn more about the event, and check back often as new details are provided. Save the date and start planning your trip now. For veteran attendees, there is one important change to note when preparing to register for the 2017 event. All registrants must be employed by a wholesaler, manufacturer or service affiliate company that is a current NAWLA member. As an organization that advocates for and supports the unique value and role of a wholesaler in that supply chain, NAWLA determined that this new policy was critical for ensuring consistency with those objectives. For membership-related inquiries or assistance, please contact NAWLA at info@nawla.org or (800) 527-8258. Those planning to attend Traders Market are encouraged to arrive in Chicago a day early to take advantage of high-caliber training tailored to industry professionals at NAWLA’s

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third annual Wood Masters course, Nov. 7-8 in Chicago. Past courses have helped participants build advanced negotiation, communication, time management, prospecting, memory and other skills related to improved performance. Across the two-day course, presenters employ a combination of case studies, presentations and panel discussions to maximize knowledge retention. Registration for this course will also be available in June, and must be completed separately from Traders Market registrations. Learn more and sign up for this limited-enrollment learning opportunity at nawla.org.

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May 2017

Building Products Digest

NEW Products

Upgraded I-Joists Weyerhaeuser is working to create a more versatile product for builders and has upgraded its Trus Joist IJoists with Flak Jacket protection. The enhanced fire-resistant coating further simplifies installation and improves the product’s appearance, all while complying with the latest residential fire code provisions.

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Building Products Digest

May 2017

Superior Insulation ACH Foam Technologies’ Foam-Control Max graphite polystyrene rigid foam insulation is well-suited to any vertical construction application where a high-performance building envelope is desired. The premium-grade architectural insulation achieves an R5 at 1-1/16” thick without the decrease in R-value performance associated with XPS over the life of the product. n ACHFOAM.COM (855) 597-4427

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Cable Rail Kit Feeney has introduced a new CableRail Stair Assembly, a pre-packaged kit of materials and fittings created to streamline installation of CableRail on stair railings. Specially designed for wood posts, the package includes 20 ft. of 1/8” diameter stainless steel cable with a threaded terminal fitting attached to one end, a Quick-Connect pivot fitting for the other end, and necessary nuts and washers.

Kebony is joining forces with Delta Millworks to produce a line thermally modified timber cladding and interior paneling in the style of shou sugi ban— Japanese for burnt cedar board. The new cladding and paneling, called Kebony Shou Sugi Ban by Delta Millwork, utilizes the ancient Japanese techniques of burning, brushing or preweathering timber to provide a long-lasting and striking wood cladding product.

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T&G Porch Ceilings

DuPont Tyvek Protec roofing underlayment is made with increasing durability, warranty protection, and UV resistance. The portfolio of products is suitable for professional roofing and exterior contractors in new construction or re-roofing projects as a secondary water barrier on steep-sloped roofs under asphalt shingle, tile, metal, cedar or slate deterioration.

When a home design specifies the rich character of hardwood tongue-and-groove ceilings, Versatex Building Products has an innovative solution called the Canvas Series. It combines the beauty of black cherry, walnut, or tropical macore with the technical advantages of cellular PVC exterior trim. It reportedly provides straight, true, knot-free material, in uniform 18-ft. lengths that can span up to 24” on center. A matching 4” crown moulding comes in 16-ft. lengths. The system includes a color-matched touchup kit for use on butt joints or fastener marks. The initial Canvas Series release conforms to the familiar Versatex WP4 T&G profile, with durable woodgrain laminates permanently bonded to moisture-resistant, time-tested cellular PVC.

n DUPONT.COM

n VERSATEX.COM

Durability Where it Matters Most

(615) 527-7326

Building Products Digest

(724) 857-1111

May 2017

Building-Products.com

Screws that Hold The U2 CS Screw is designed to make the user’s job a little easier. Its corkscrew-start, blade-cutting thread makes for easy piercing, while the tight star recess system grasps the bit tightly so the fastener can be installed with one hand. The screw comes with talon grip, which holds it tight to prevent loosening.

n U2FASTENERS.COM (800) 729-3878

Blades Leave a Mark Paslode’s Powermaster Pro 30 framing nailer ups productivity with its lighter weight and quick two-step rear-load magazine. The engine ensures nails drive flush into the toughest lumber.

Dewalt’s new reciprocating saw blades have two blades in one. Users can break away the used section, and then reinsert the unused blade section back into the saw, allowing for maximum blade use, without compromising performance.

n PASLODE.COM

n DEWALT.COM

Flush Framer

Metal Panels with a Rustic Finish Pure + Freeform’s metal wall and ceiling panels are now offered in a new color, Gilded Rust, with shines of bright copper and rich rust tones. Available in solid or acoustically perforated form, the tone offers a “beautifully decaying” appearance to a structure and has a brushed, organic finish.

n PUREFREEFORM.COM (612) 208-8374

Building Products Digest

May 2017

Building-Products.com

ASSOCIATION Update Oklahoma Lumberman’s Association is reminding guests to save the date and reserve rooms now for its annual Summer Fling June 2-4 at The Lodge At Sequoyah, Hulbert, Ok. Mid-America Lumbermens Association is readying for its 29th annual Sunflower Shootout four-person scramble June 9 at Hesston Golf Course, Hesston, Ks. Florida Building Material Association is offering a blueprint reading seminar May 16 at FBMA headquarters in Mt. Dora, Fl. Vermont Retail Lumber Dealers Association on April 4 welcomed Governor Phil Scott for a roundtable discussion on the business conditions of the state, and how government can help small businesses. Southern Forest Products Association presented Sawmill Safety Awards to seven mills, recognizing outstanding safety records during 2016. Honored were Canfor Southern Pine in Jackson, Al., and Graham, N.C.; and Weyerhaeuser in Millport, Al.; Dodson, Holden and Zwolle, La.; and Bruce, Ms.

Hardwood Manufacturers Association elected Richard Wilkerson, Anderson-Tully Co., Vicksburg, Ms., president and Bob Miller, Frank Miller Lumber Co., Union City, In., vice president during its recent conference in Charleston, S.C. Joining them on the executive committee are Troy Brown, Kretz Lumber Co., Antigo, Wi.; T.J. Rosengarth, Northwest Hardwoods, Tacoma, Wa.; Trisha Thompson, T&S Hardwoods, Milledgeville, Ga.; John Hubbard, Buchanan Lumber, Aliceville, Al.; Tommy Petzoldt, East Perry Lumber, Frohna, Mo.; and past president Skipper Beal, Beal Lumber Co., Little Mountain, S.C. Elected directors were Tim Brownlee, Brownlee Lumber Co., Brookville, Pa.; Jason Ayers, Cersosimo Lumber Co., Brattleboro, Vt.; Nancy Tuck, Gates Milling, Gatesville, N.C.; Jack Shannon III, J.T. Shannon Lumber Co., Memphis, Tn.; and Jesse Joyce, Middle Tennessee Lumber Co., Burns, Tn. Appointed to the HMA NextGen Leaders Council (formerly known as the HMA Millennial Council) were Tripp Pryor, American Hardwood Export Council; Drew Battle, Battle Lumber Co., Wadley, Ga.; Jessica Fly, Fly Tie & Lumber, Grenada, Ms.; Jacob Schriner, Northwest Hardwoods, Tacoma; Kyle Gunderson, Pike Lumber Co., Akron, In.; Andy Nuffer, Robinson Lumber Co., New Orleans, La.; Nick Thompson, Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods, Huntland, Tn.; and Truss Beasley, Thompson Hardwoods, Hazlehurst, Ga.

BECK Fastener Group® and FASCO America® are registered trademarks of the BECK Fasttener Group. Group

Wood Products Manufacturers Association had 92 of its members simultaneously earn SFI chain-of-custody certification, making this the largest single group to certify to the SFI COC Standard at once.

AIR DRIVEN N TOOLS A marvel of continua al reﬁnement and evolution, the high performance raange of FASCO® brand staplers, nailers and specialty tools combine distinctive style with speed, agility and endurance e .

Northeastern Loggers Association is gearing up for its annual loggers expo May 19-20 at Cross Insurance Center, Bangor, Me. Building-Products.com

May 2017

Building Products Digest

Texas dealer salute Lumbermens Association of Texas & Louisiana’s recent annual convention and buying show was a time for send-offs, as well as welcomes. The 131st annual event, held April 5-7 at the Gaylord Texan Resort, Grapevine, Tx., will be the last under executive VP Barbara Douglas, who is retiring in June after more than 30 years at the helm. Attendees did get the opportunity to meet her successor, Mireya Zapata.

The event also paused to remember longtime member Bob McCarley, Paris Lumber, Paris, Tx., who passed away last September (see obituary, Oct., p. 96). During the convention, president Clayton Epstein, Dr. Ike’s Home Center, Laredo, Tx., passed his mantle to Chris Miller, Parker’s Building Supply, Beaumont, Tx. Other new officers installed were 1st VP Jimmy Pate, Pate’s Lumber,

LAT outgoing president [1] Clayton Epstein, with retiring executive VP Barbara Douglas. [2] Blake & Christie Bailey, Kim Hinson, Jeff Tweten. [3] John Edge, Kim Morris. [4] Bruce Agness, Jammy Pate, Melvin Faircloth. [5] Neal Grubbs, Andy Braudway, Tre Glisson, Harris Gant. [6] Nathan Potter, Jason Pate. [7] Bobby Davis, Logan Moon. [8] Paul

Building Products Digest

May 2017

Comanche; 2nd VP David Ward, Red River Lumber, Texarkana; secretary/ treasurer Grant Foxworth, Foxworth Galbraith, Plano; sgt.-at-arms Brian McCoy, McCoy’s Building Supply, San Marcos; associate VP Don Galley, Denver Southwest, Houston; and Louisiana VP Frank Fazzio, Lumber Products, Metairie, La. LAT’s 132nd annual convention and expo is set for April 3-5, 2018, at the JW Marriott, San Antonio.

Reuland, Bart Graves. [9] Dale Voigt, Paul Coburn. [10] Chuck Pool, Garnett Douglass, Rufus Duncan. [11] Nick Peterson, Lori Hart, Pablo Gonzales. [12] Audrey Radfar, Jason Shanks. (More photos on next 3 pages) Building-Products.com

TEXAS DEALER EXPO Photos by BPD

DO IT Best members were out in force at LAT expo (continued from previous page): [13] Eric Knox, incoming LAT president Chris Miller, Jean Fahy. [14] Aaron Robinett, Tina Pape, Chau Nguyen, Mike Cox, Jim Hataway. [15] Clayton & Carolyn Epstein. [16] Jeremy Kolenovsky, Jason Myers, Daniel Salinas, Manny Cirilo. [17] Velvet Phillips, Michael Rowland. [18] Tony Rocha, Joe Burlison, Zach Zimmerman. [19] Derrick Chavez, Bob Appelgate, Mark Dodson. [20] Lynne & Matt Mullin. [21] Building-Products.com

Josh Stahl, Amanda Ramirez. [22] Kyle Morgan, Bobby Davis, John Jones, Jack Hensley, Kolton Barber, Mike Aaron. [23] Matt Hague, Marshall Kovacs. [24] Bob Sanders, Britt Inman. [25] Lynn Noesser, Darcy Overby, Hans Bauer. [26] Marco Oropeza, Cindy Taylor, Bill Washerlesky. [27] Joe Burlison, John Butler, Brenda Cox, Mike Craven, David Ward, Adam Pettit. (More photos on next 2 pages) May 2017

Building Products Digest

TEXAS DEALER EXPO Photos by BPD

TEXAS dealer McCoyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Building Supply was represented at the LAT show (continued from previous 2 pages) by [28] Meagan McCoy Jones, Brian McCoy, Wetonnah McCoy. [29] Corby Biddle, Mike Zenko, David Yessian, Craig Stuart. [30] David Dollar, Bobby Crowley. [31] Todd Raines, Mallory Hillhouse, Nathan Potter, Mistie Weatherly, Dave Sherwood, Craig Bussey. [32] Ken Smithhart, Scot Chapman, Stephen Geistweidt, Gary Young, Danny Bachman, Royce Slaven. [33] Arthur

Building Products Digest

May 2017

Cavazos, Matt Risinger. [34] Nathan Sikes, Brandon Bishop. [35] Buddy Sims, Kim Runge. [36] Sid Taylor, Pete Wenger. [37] Joey Edwards, Steve Miller, Spencer Sager, Trent Tucker, Greg Evans. [38] Wil Stewart, Quinton Pugh. [39] Steve Loebner, Steve Culbertson. [40] Emily & Chris Miller. [41] Ron & Yuri Mullen. [42] Jason & Tracey Williams. (More photos on next page) Building-Products.com

TEXAS DEALER EXPO Photos by BPD

WELCOMING PARTY (continued from previous 3 pages): [43] Ray Sale, new LAT exec Mireya Zapata, Eddie Stafford. [44] Mike Zumwalt, Kyle Gillin. [45] Bobby Ufolla, Rick Benton. [46] Ron Gaines, Brad Harris, Ginger Cipher, Loren Brown. [47] David Houser, Bart Graves, Wade Frazier. [48] Marc Perez, Cale Kids, Trevor Pedigo, Brandon Lackey. [49] Nick Zilliken, Jamie Hursh, David Lawrence. [50] Cody Dick, Keith Keegan, Christine Turner, Chris Rowe, Jessica Perera, Michael Sheppard, Justin March. [51] Jason Berkey, Brandon Cummings. [52] Andy Long, Jason Mears, Chad Mizell, Kevin Simpson, Bill Campbell, Joe Kelley, Jesse Lopez. [53] Carolyn Epstein, Norma Dagley. [54] Annette & Scott Stanford. [55] Geri Adams, Barbara Douglas. Building-Products.com

May 2017

Building Products Digest

NAWLA – MONTREAL Photos by BPD

NORTH AMERICAN Wholesale Lumber Association’s Quebec regional meeting featured [1] Raymond Chrétien, the province’s negotiator for the Softwood Lumber Agreement and former Canadian ambassador to the U.S. [2] Robert Laforge, Anni-Claude Archambault, Michael Traversy. [3] Rob Hruby, Eric Currier, Nicolas Vincent. [4] Yanick Miron, Jean-Richard Boulé. [5] Sophie Lamothe, Sylvain Boisvert. [6] Brandon Desyatnik, Dustin Wood. [7] Anthony Muck, Bill Price. [8] David Hurley, Ian Smith, Jared Carroll. [9] Robert Oligny, Dany Rivest, Richard Dansereau, Hugo

Building Products Digest

May 2017

Coderre. [10] Michael Sivucha, Sebastien Benoit. [11] Steve Berthiaume, Marilene Gill. [12] Ryan Sharpe, Adam Nolasco. [13] Lucy Cousineau, Denis Lavoie. [14] Karl Seger, Ryan Satterfield, Philippe Coallier. [15] Hugo Coderre, Dany Rivest. [16] Greg Schallenberg, Josh Sawatzky. [17] Josh Goodman, Steve Rustja, Ian McLean. [18] Alain Beaudoin, Nadine Denault, Alex Robitaille, Stephane Millette, Pierre-Emmanuel Tessier. (More photos on next page) Building-Products.com

NAWLA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MONTREAL Photos by BPD

NAWLA regional meeting convened March 28 in Montreal (continued from previous page): [19] Francois Fortier, David Benoit. [20] Stephane Millette, Pierre-Emmanuel Tessier. [21] Andy Wood, Brendan Anatole. [22] Steve Rustja, Maria Frigo. [23] Jim McGinnis, Gregg Riley. [24]

Building-Products.com

Normand Bourgeault, Jean-Gabriel Lespinasse, Caroline Vaillancourt. [25] Rick Widman. [26] Kirk Westerbeck, Rob Latham. [27] Caroline Lescault, Spyro Vassiliadis, Michel Beaudoin, Bruno Jean. [28] Sylvain LabbĂŠ, Emilie Bundock, Raymond Chretien, Michel Vincent.

May 2017

Building Products Digest

Buyers and suppliers flock to Montreal Wood Convention The wood may have been Canadian, but many of those checking it out at the 5th Monreal Wood Convention hailed from the U.S. Representatives were out in force from such domestic powerhouses as 84 Lumber, Allied Building Stores, Biewer Lumber, BlueLinx, Boise Cascade, Do it Best Forest City Trading Group, LBM Advantage, LBM, Sherwood Lumber, Universal Forest Products, and US LBM, helping fill the hall during the March 28-30 event. More than 110 exhibitors manned booths, while attendees were also treated to a top-notch line-up of speakers. Manjit K. Minhas, co-founder and co-owner of the Minhas Breweries and Distillery, and the newest “Dragon” on the

hit Canadian TV show Dragons’ Den, kept a full ballroom enthralled during her keynote presentation. An expert panel addressed “Tomorrow’s Trading Tools,” and Robert Glowinski, president and CEO of the American Wood Council, spoke on new opportunities for wood in construction. Other presentations covered the economy, markets and marketing; the future of wood in furniture and flooring; the role of the forest sector in climate change mitigation; and “Lumber Markets: Can Demand Growth Trump Tariffs?” Next year’s Montreal Wood Convention will be held March 20-22, 2018, at Montreal’s newly renovated Queen Elizabeth Hotel.

CONVENTION ATTENDEES [1] packed the tradeshow aisles during the three-day event. [2] Chris Matier, Kenzie Church. [3] Maria Frigo, Marc Saracco. [4] Glen Sawking, Dyon Armstrong. [5] Gilles Martel, Randi

Walker, Gilles-Vincent Martel. [6] Rhys Thompson, Rick Stoltz. [7] Karl Seger, Peter Dupuis. [8] Kent Beverage, Louis Picard. [9] Mike Morgan, Steve Allen. (More photos on next page)

Building Products Digest

May 2017

Building-Products.com

MONTREAL EXPO Photos by BPD

MONTREAL WOOD Convention (continued from previous page) kicked off with an enthralling keynote presentation by [10] Manjit K. Minhas, brewery baroness and co-star of the hit Canadian TV show Dragonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Den. [11] Martine Leduc, Elizabeth Sorba, Nathalie Houde, Monica Lapierre. [12] Liane Nowell, Robert Vanier. [13] Jack Bowen, Matt Duprey. [14] Jean-Michel Broschart, Rick Fortunaso. [15] Dianne Boucher, AndrĂŠ Boucher. [16] Keith Mullens, Stacy Tiefenbach. [17] Bill Building-Products.com

Ossenfort, Mikelle Davenport, Steve Banahan. [18] Stephane Mercure, Moe Hassan. [19] Carlin Irish, Dustin Wood, Eric Melancon, Scott Gaucho, Mark Porter. [20] Josh Zangwill, Monika Patel. [21] Kyle Gibbons, Agnes Flinn, Rob Hruby, Steve Rhone, Steven Rustja, Nevena Strbac, Brandon Desyatnik. [22] Jacques Filion. [23] Albert Renaud, Veronique Petit, Tony Saad, Joe Hanas. [24] Patrick Webster, Brian Korchinski, David Hutson. May 2017

Building Products Digest

CLASSIFIED Marketplace Rates: $1.20 per word (25 word minimum). Phone number counts as 1 word, address as 6. Centered copy/headline, $9 per line. Border, $9. Private box, $15. Column inch rate: $55 if art furnished “camera-ready” (advertiser sets type), $65 if we set type. Send ad to Fax 714-486-2745 or david@building-products.com. Checks payable to 526 Media Group. Deadline: 18th of previous month. Questions? Call (714) 486-2735. To reply to ads with private box numbers, contact box number shown, c/o BPD, 151 Kalmus Dr., Suite D200, Costa Mesa, Ca. 92626. Names of advertisers using box number cannot be released.

HELP WANTED OREGON-CANADIAN Forest Products, Inc. is seeking a self-motivated and ambitious individual to join our dynamic team as an entry-level Sales and Marketing Associate. This individual will be responsible for sales, purchasing and inventory control and production. We offer competitive salaries with added bonus and full benefits. Experience in manufacturing required. Those interested in applying should send their resume and cover letter to ldholm@ocfp.com.

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BUILDING-PRODUCTS.COM ADVERTISERS Index

Jordan Lumber [www.jordanlumber.com]

AERT [www.moistureshield.com]

Kop-Coat [www.kop-coat.com]

Allura [www.allurausa.com]

Koppers Performance Chemicals [kopperspc.com]

AZEK [www.azek.com]

Cover II

Cover III 40-41

National Nail [www.nationalnail.com]

39 15

Lumber Blue Book [www.lumberbluebook.com]

Norbord [www.norbord.com/taller]

Boise Cascade [www.bcewp.com]

North American Wholesale Lumber Assn. [nawla.org]

Camo Fasteners [www.camofasteners.com]

Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Assn. [www.nelma.org] 73

Century Aluminum [www.centeryalluminum.com]

Orgill [www.orgill.com]

CMPC [www.cmcp.cl]

Palram Americas [www.palramamericas.com]

Cox Industries [www.coxwood.com]

PPG [www.ppgmachineappliedcoatings.com]

Crumpler Plastic Pipe [www.cpp-pipe.com]

Redwood Empire [www.redwoodemp.com]

CT Darnell Construction [www.ct-darnell.com]

Robbins Lumber [www.rlco.com]

Dasso XTR [www.dassoxtr.com]

Roseburg Forest Products [www.roseburg.com]

Deckorators [www.deckorators.com]

Simpson Strong-Tie [www.strongtie.com]

Digger Specialties [www.diggerspecialties.com]

Snider Industries [www.sniderindustries.com]

DMSi [www.dmsi.com]

Sure Drive USA [www.suredrive.com]

Do it Best Corp. [www.independentsdoitbest.com]

Swanson Group Sales Co. [www.swansongroupinc.com]

Eco Chemical [www.ecochemical.com]

Tando Building Products [www.tandobp.com]

Everwood Treatment Co. [www.everwoodtreatment.com]

Universal Forest Products [www.prowoodlumber.com]

Fasco America [www.fascoamerica.com]

Viance [www.treatedwood.com]

Great Southern Wood Preserving [www.yellawood.com]

Weyerhaeuser [www.weyerhaeuser.com]

Green Bay Decking [www.greenbaydecking.com]

Woodway Products [www.woodwayproducts.com]

Building Products Digest

May 2017

49, 57

Cover I

Cover IV 3, 7, 11 77

Building-Products.com

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

Timeless Design

North American Wholesale Lumber Association – May 4, regional meeting, Birmingham, Al.; (800) 527-8258; www.nawla.org. Construction Suppliers Association – May 4-5, 10-hour OSHA safety course, Tyrone, Ga.; (678) 674-1860; www.gocsa.com. East Coast Builders Conference – May 4-5, Cobb Galleria Centre, Atlanta Ga.; (727) 480-3785; www.ecbcshow.com. Forest Investment Conference – May 4-5, Park Plaza Hotel, London; (713) 644-1495; information@risi.com. Mid-America Lumbermens Association – May 4-5, Missouri Swing into Spring, Lake of the Ozarks, Mo.; www.themla.com. Hardwood Plywood & Veneer Assn. – May 7-9, annual convention, Hilton New Orleans Riverside, New Orleans, La.; www.hpva.org. Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Assn. – May 7-9, annual convention, Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, Ponte Vedra, Fl.; www.kcma.org. Southern Pine Inspection Bureau – May 8-9, annual lumber quality & process control workshop; May 10-11, lumber quality leadership workshop, Atlanta, Ga.; www.spib.com. Eastern Building Material Dealers Association – May 9, western golf outing, The Ranch Golf Club, Southwick, Ma.; www.nrla.org. Building Material Suppliers Association – May 9-10, leadership development roundtable, Nashville, Tn.; www.mybmsa.org. National Hardware Show – May 9-11, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nv.; (888) 425-9377; www.nationalhardwareshow.com. Peak Auctioneering – May 13, LBM auction, Howard County Fairgrounds, Baltimore, Md.; (800) 245-9690; www.peakauction.com. Northwestern Lumber Association – May 15-17, blueprint reading, Minnesota TBA; (763) 544-6822; www.nlassn.org. Florida Building Material Association – May 16, blueprint reading seminar, FBMA Hq., Mount Dora, Fl.; www.fbma.org. Dave Kahle Seminar for Sales Managers – May 18-19, Chicago, Il.; www.davekahle.com. Northeastern Loggers Assn. – May 19-20, expo, Cross Insurance Center, Bangor, Me.; (800) 318-7561; www.northernlogger.com. Do it Best Corp. – May 19-22, spring market, Indianapolis Convention Center, Indianapolis, In.; (260) 748-5300; www.doitbestcorp.com. Peak Auctioneering – May 20, LBM auction, Cabarrus Arena & Events Center, Charlotte, N.C.; www.peakauction.com. Rhode Island Lumber & Building Materials Dealers Assn. – May 24, dinner meeting, Cassarino’s, Providence, R.I.; www.nrla.org. Oklahoma Lumbermen’s Association – June 2-4, Summer Fling, The Lodge at Sequoyah, Hulbert, Ok.; (405) 602-5384; www.oklumber.org. Peak Auctioneering – June 3, LBM auction, Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, Cleveland, Oh.; www.peakauction.com. Massachusetts Retail Lumber Association – June 7, meeting, Rhode Island Convention Center, Providence, R.I.; www.nrla.org. Peak Auctioneering – June 10, LBM auction, Kane County Fairgrounds, Chicago, Il.; (800) 245-9690; www.peakauction.com.

Seamless Integration Woodway’s Drilled Posts offer unmatched precision and innovative modern appeal, without the time and labor of preparing your own posts on site. Available in Cedar, Mahogany, or Doug Fir, our pre-drilled post can be used as a finished or structural line post for all your cable rail installations.

National Lawn & Garden Show – June 13-15, Chicago, Il.; (888) 316-0226; www.nlgshow.com. National Retail Federation – June 14-16, loss prevention conference & expo, Philadelphia, Pa.; (800) 673-4692; www.nrf.com. House-Hasson Hardware – June 15-17, market, Sevierville Events Center, Sevierville, Tn.; (800) 333-0520; www.househasson.com. Retail Lumber Dealers Association of Maine – June 20, golf outing, Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, Belgrade Lakes, Me.; www.nrla.org.

Building-Products.com

Visit us at

woodwayproducts.com or call

800-459-8718 May 2017

Building Products Digest

FLASHBack 85 Years Ago This Month

In the summer of 1932, for the first time in history, the Olympic Games were headed to the western U.S. and the lumber industry was determined to play a role, according to the May 1932 edition of BPD’s sister journal, The California Lumber Merchant. Van Arsdale-Harris Lumber, San Francisco, Ca., supplied the springboards to be used in the diving events at the upcoming X Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The boards were equipped with a new adjustable fulcrum designed by the coach of the American Olympic diving team and distributed by Van Arsdale-Harris. The lumber whole-

saler’s sales manager, Hugh Handley, described the device as a big step forward in standardizing “fancy diving competitions,” since divers could adjust the amount of spring they wanted in their board by turning a wheel with their foot. “Our springboards are used in every state in the union, and our export business includes shipments to England, France, Germany, Holland, Belgium, South Africa, Japan, India, China, Mexico and other foreign countries,” he said. Meanwhile, Los Angeles’ E.K. Wood Lumber Co. was busy building 550 cottages for the Olympic

REDWOOD GIANT Pacific Lumber Co., which today survives as Humboldt Redwood Co., Scotia, Ca., ran an uncharacteristically cheeky ad, promoting an essay contest that was truly fishy. We suspect this ad must have been designed on April Fool’s Day.

Building Products Digest

May 2017

SCHUMACHER WALL BOARD Corp. advertised its versatile Schumite brand plaster wallboard on the cover of May 1932’s Merchant.

Village in Baldwin Hills, to house over 2,000 male athletes from 50+ nations. Each prefab unit was identical—240 sq. ft., consuming 1,740 ft. of lumber in each building including the porch and floor, and 1,200 sq. ft. of Insulate. Thinking ahead—and foreshadowing today’s Tiny House phenomenon, E.K. Wood was selling the cottages to folks who, once the Olympics ended, could unbolt the house sections and reassemble them on a new location. Even before the Olympic Games began, E.K. Wood had found buyers for more than half the cottages. In other news: • The Celotex Co. invented a new technique for making its fiber insulation products “practically impervious to the natural agencies” of decay and to termite attack. Its Ferox process was the culmination of 10 years of research and two years of experimental production of treated products for tropical countries. The colorless, odorless chemical was applied during manufacture, but in no way altered the physical properties of the wallboard. • The Forest Service announced that, by proclamation of President Hoover, the Colorado National Forest would be renamed Roosevelt National Forest, to honor the recently departed Teddy Roosevelt, who founded numerous national forests. Building-Products.com

BPD Building Products Digest 151 Kalmus Dr. Ste. D200 Costa Mesa, CA 92626-5959

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