Building Products Digest - February 2003

It's a bold claim, but here are the facts:

CorrectDeck is made from polypropylene. not polyethylene I CorrectDeck is 5 times stiffer than other composites I CorrectDeck is less prone to heat distortion and does not expand or contract as much as polyethylene based composites I CorrectDeck is more slip resistant, wet or dry

You want more?

CorrectDeck's natural looking wood surface is hot roller embossed, not abraded

CorrectDeck's resin-rich surface offers superior wear resistance I CorrectDeck is cooler underfoot

CorrectDeck offers o utsta ndi ng moistu re resista nce

CorrectDeck is the easiest composite decking to install.

CorrectDeck's cross-section is solidlooks like lumber and installs like lumber

CorrectDeck Signature, edge grooved to acceptthe Correct.ry, is the best looking, easiestto install hidden fastener system available

Grow your business with CorrectDeck.

Four great colors I Excellent marketing support 125 year warranty

t_

PUBLISHER Alan Oakes (ajoakes@aol.com)

PUBLISHER EMERITUS David Cutler

EDITOR David Koenig (dkoenig@ioc.net)

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Robert Fay (rfay@ioc.net)

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

ADMINISTBATION DIRECTOR/ SECRETARY Marie Oakes (mfpoakes@aol.com)

CIRCULATION Heather Kelly (heather@ioc.net)

How to Advertise

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

E-mail chuck@ioc.net

INTERNET ADS: Alan Oakes, www.buildingproducts.com, Phone (949) 852-1990 Fax 949-852-0231

How

About the Cover

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' Unique preservative - rccycled copper and organic fungicide

. Same natural appearance and longevity as traditional treated lumber

Ten-year intemational history world's most successful altemative to traditional treatment

. From the derrelopers of reliable Wolmanized@ wood and the producer of DuraPine@ OutdooP products

KDAT available

Fighting to grow or survive?

Over the last three months during budget season, frustrated sales and marketing managers have asked me for advice on how to win support internally for a broad range of initiatives believed necessary to grow or stabilize their company. This frustration is no surprise, as I have seen it first hand in many companies and in many industries.

Watching a floundering company, no matter the industry or part of the channel, die or barely survive year in and year out is excruciatingly painful. Other companies may have done well by relying on a small number of loyal customers to maintain a status quo, but now find that a changing market requires locating new business. In both situations, management believes they do not have the internal culture or marketing support to do so.

I have been in four turnaround situations in three different industries. In all four. the issues were identical-there was no company identity, no product differentiation, and no noticeable long-term marketing strategy. There was nothing to establish memorable personalities for the company or their products in customers' minds. Subsequently, in a bad market, there was nothing to differentiate them from many of their competitors. Instead of maintaining or gaining market share, the companies slid into a downward spiral. In one case, they succeeded in making themselves a low-cost producer, but still failed to get to market and could not understand why.

In another case, after downsizing by nearly 50% to stay in business, the company had to begin growing revenues instead of continuing to cut costs. Production-driven, management thought that the sales force was useless. After all, there was a constant flurry of new products. What more could they do? The trouble was nobody wanted them, or if they did there was never a clear, coherent marketing message as to why they should want them. The same issue. yet in a different industry, was at a company losing 507o of its revenue. Someone coming in who actually wanted to invest in growing the business, and not slash and burn, was shocking and scary to many.

Time was at a premium in both companies, and there was nothing more to cut. It needed out-of-the-box thinking and strategy. Moreover, it needed a change of thinking and culture throughout the company from top to bottom. The focus needed to shift away from internal issues to emphasize that their offerings were not the same "me too" products, but products actually needed, that they would deliver and sell uniquely to the marketplace. It was about fulfilling not only our direct customers' wants and needs, but their customer's wants and needs. It was about repositioning our company away from just product development to investing in branding and marketing to create a new image to give

our sales force a strategic advantage over competition. A very difficult challenge under the financial woes the company was going through, and one not done overnight. In one of these companies, the decision was to produce new products in four months instead of 12, all redesigned, all repackaged, all market tested, all produced in concert with trade and end users, and after reviewing all competitive products already in the market, and from intelligence as to what was on the way. The company was profitable six months later.

In three of the four companies, there was no comprehension of marketing strategy. Those very ideas often seemed offensive to some management and staff. In one case, the company had given up substantial market share to newer, more nimble competitors, slipping from No. I to No.4-and management just sat by watching.

In moving to a new company, it was only a matter of hours before I'd hear, "This is how we do it in this company or industry-and we have been doing it this way for years." I would rarely hear about the customers, except for all the problems they created. I would hear that we were in business despite our customers not because of our customers. Customers were an irritant, as was the sales force.

These were the times I realized the difference between a marketing-driven company and a production-driven company. While both styles can lead to success, if you're top management is not tied to the market, if you are not reviewing or reinventing yourself from a marketing perspective, but instead are tied to the product, once the tide turns, it is almost impossible to stave off going out of business or becoming a non-player.

If in your management meetings, sales and marketing strategies are not top of the agenda, and instead, it is always about investing in new equipment. investing in new production capabilities, talking about technical prowess, then it's time for change. If top management and internal staff see the sales force as a "necessity to tolerate," if the decision-makers do not have an equilibrium of managers coming from sales and marketing, who are listened to, then in my opinion, the company is doomed for failure. If the whole company is not standing behind the sales and marketing team and driven to build the business and do what it takes to win business, then the outcome is inevitable. That takes a state of mind and investment.

Production/manufacturing-driven companies win in the short-term if they have a product advantage. In today's world those windows of technical advantage last for shorter and shorter lengths of time. Marketing-driven companies win the battle in the lons-term.

Horidq distributor tqkes qlternqtiue roufe

EtOR over 40 years. L'niversal .a' Building Specialties. Auburndale. Fl., has been serving the Florida and Caribbean markets with specialty softwood and hardwood lumber products. In fact, Tom Moore, who founded the company in 1959, was the first to introduce western red cedar to Florida.

Over the years, UBS grew into what has become its signature niche, that of a specialty Cedar House. It also distributed Alaskan yellow cedar,

redwood, cypress! Douglas fir, southern pine, ip6 and other exotic hardwoods.

In January 2001, Jim VanPelt joined UBS as president of the company. charged with positioning. growing and leading the business into the 2lst Century. From the onset, VanPelt sought to retrench and redefine UBS's core niche, and began to explore and add new product lines.

"With the market trendins awav

from chemical and arsenic-treated lumber. I felt UBS had elements in place to launch a successful non-CCA alternative outdoor lumber program," VanPelt said. "After all, we were known for red cedar, yellow cedar, redwood and ip6. But we were missing out on a big piece of the concept, that being a synthetic line of lumber. Further, it was almost to the point that if you were a lumber distributor without a synthetic lumber line, you were out of vogue and behind the times."

WHe began working on this missing piece. Through the winter of 2001, VanPelt began researching the synthetic lumber industry. interviewing various manufacturers, and exploring market-entry scenarios. In March 2001, VanPelt met Walter Kuzmiw, Southeast regional representative for U.S. Plastic Lumber. Kuzmiw had the industry knowledge, contacts and vision that VanPelt was looking for. A month later, Kuzmiw enlisted UBS as USPL's Carefree HDPE plastic lumber stocking distributor in Florida, and introduced UBS to USPL's TriMax structural plastic lumber.

Suddenly, UBS was off and running. From inventory on the ground in April of 2001 to fast-rising sales through the balance of 200 I , to adding other manufacturers' lines in early 2002. In spring 2002, Kuzmiw joined UBS as a product specialist.

Currently, UBS offers six manufacturer synthetic lines and has grown its synthetic business to more than $4 million annually. representing over one-third of the company's total sales.

Seemingly overnight, UBS's lumber business transformed into a leader in alternative outdoor lumber. "Walter's impact on UBS's business has been extraordinary," VanPelt noted. "Certainly, we had some nonCCA pieces in place, but we didn't have any plastic lumber. Not only has Walter given us the plastic game, but he's given us cutting-edge status as probably the leading synthetic lumber distribution house in the Southeast."

DECK T0 DOCK: UBS now distributes a range of alternative materials, including FiberForce structural plastic, used in (upper photo) this lakeside deck supplied through KLI Supply, Key Largo, Fl., and GeoDeck composite, used in (lower photo) this dock job sold through Raymond Building Supply, Forl Myers, Fl.

HAT'S the best type of siding to stock fbr your builder and remodeler customers?

As many as possible, says Walt Hoyt, CertainTeed's Siding Products Group. "It's all about innovation, options and letting the customers decide," he says. "Builders and remodelers want choice without compromising quality." He advises offering pros the widest choice, the highest quality, and the most innovative siding options in multiple materials.

ldlng,,, tc

Each material type offers its own advantages and disadvantages. and it's best to let the customer decide.

Northwest Home Source, a Lake

Traditional favorites

lmpressive, yet "natural" facade

Extremely durable, impervious to termites

Naturally fire resistant

Little maintenance reouired

Traditional favorite

Relatively low maintenance

Traditional warmth and beauty

Relatively resistant to damage

Lower malerial costs than traditionalwood

Faster to apply than lraditionalwood

Oswego, Or., remodeler that uses multiple materials, uses the information below to match customers' preferences the the right type of siding:

Exoensive materials

Expensive, time-consuming installatron

Heavy weight

Expensive to repair or restore

Higher cost

More easily damaged than brick or stone

Burns easily, susceptible to termites

Can warp, peel, crack or split if improperly maintained

. High maintenance, no warranty

Expensive material, expensive installation

Burns easily, susceplible lo termites

Can warp, peel, crack or split if improperly maintained

High maintenance, no wananty

Limited number of designs

Unsightly face nailing

Lower material costs than traditional wood

Faster to apply than traditional wood

Closely duplicates wood in initial appearance

Consumer reluctance, due to bad publicity, high prolile failures

Susceptible to swelling and buckling, especially around nail heads

Manufacturers pulling out of certain markets

General consumer uncertainty about future oJ the product

Burns easily, susceptible to termites, high maintenance

. Can warp, peel, crack, split or rot if improperly maintained

Lower material costs than traditional wood

Faster lo apply than traditional wood

Closely duplicates wood in inilialappearance

Swelling and delamination are problems

Consumer resistance due to high maintenance, reputation

Limited number of profiles

Long{erm performance is questionable

Burns easily, susceptible to termites

Can warp, peel, crack, split or rot if improperly mainlained

Light weight, fire resistant, long-term warranty

Low maintenance, impervious to termites

Relatively low cost, easy to handle and install

Will not split, chip, peel or rot

Closely duplicates wood in appearance

Fire-resistant

lmnervious to termites

Willnot buckle or warp if properly installed

Long-term wananty

Closely replicates appearance of wood

New products offer deep, detailed finish

Lowest maintenance reouirement

Light weight, easy and less expensive to install

lmpervious to lermites, longlerm warranty

Will nol rusl, rot, peel or blister

Lowest cost per square of material

Industry certification program

Susceptible to dents and scratches

Lack of a warm, natural appearance

. Heavy and difficult to handle, requires extensive painting

Cutting creates considerable dust, and requires diamond-tipped saw blades, which musl be frequently replaced

Very brittle, even when dry, and further weakened if it gets wet

Problems with freezing and thawing cycles

Higher labor, applicalion and finishing costs

Will melt at very high lemperalures

Heat and cold affecl imoact resistance

"Oil-canning" possible if improperly installed

- AII information is provided by and the opinion of Northwest Home Source, Lake Oswego, Or.

Gomposite Profiles Trends in composite and plastic decking

tlaHE recent. meteoric rise of composite and plastic deckI ins can be traced to a conversence of f-actors-con,rr.ri' preferences for higher qritity and lower maintenance, product improvements, the hysteria over pressure treated wood, the growth of the overall deck market.

Now, with the phase-out of CCA treated decking, are plastics and composites braced fbr an even higher surge? Or, will the arrival of new manufacturers result in oversupply, depressed prices and eventual consolidation?

We asked some of the largest composite and plastic deck manuf'acturers where the industrv is headed.

Rob Long (LP Corp./lVeatherBest composite)

"Demand has been very strong for composite wood decking over the last few years. Production has grown commensurately by both additional capacity and increased efficiencies at established manufacturers and the entrance by new manufacturers. We see it growing about I5Vo per year over the next few years."

Ludwig Furtner (Weye rhaeuser/ChoiceDek composite )

"Market demand for Weyerhaeuser ChoiceDek products has grown significantly over the last couple of years. Consumers, d-i-y customers, professional deck builders, and repair and remodel contractors are embracing composite decking products based on increased advertising and on a track record of good performance for our products. We expect sales to continue to grow at the same rate as the last couple of years, if not stronger."

Kevin Brennan (TimberTech/composite )

"You had the explosion in '98, '99, 2OOO, and then you had 4 zillion competitors get into it. We had a good year. The industry is growing at l5vo to 25Va, and we expect to exceed that rate."

Samantha B. Goes (Nexwood Industries Ltd./composite)

"In the last year there has been a huge increase in the demand for composites. We attribute this partially to the increased exposure of composites in the marketplace, as well as the acceptance of the benefits of composites at all levels of distribution. With this increase in demand, however, has also come an increase in competition. Many new players have entered the market within the last two years.

Mark Shaner ( Epoch/Evergrain composite)

"Demand has been excellent. As composite decking has grown so has the consumers expectation for a better looking product and that's where we come in. It's been a lot of fun and hard work. Our business has been very strong and we expect it to get even better. We expect to be able to satisfy the rapidly growing demand."

"We expect demand for Evergrain decking to grow dramatically over the next five years, in part because of the success of the category but in a larger sense because of the product's differentiation from other composites. Our compression molding technology allows us to achieve new levels of realism, detail and quality."

John Long ( Kadant Composite s/Geodeck composite)

"Demand is growing dramatically. We began with two extrusion lines in year 2000 and are now installing lines eight and nine. Our lead time in the early spring was extended to l0 weeks. We expect 2003 to be a breakout year and anticipate doubling our 2002 revenues."

"In the short term, we expect that the increased demand is going to allow for many new players. States thet have not been exposed to composites in great volumes are going to be introduced to many more manufacturers than were in the market even as few as two years ago. with a wide range of product offerings. The huge increase in demand has qbvious implications for an increase in production, and rnany composite manufacturers are feeling the effects of this rapid growth.

"In the longer tenn, we expect this already growing demand for alternative products to increase exponentially, triggered by CCA restrictions and the growing concern for the hazards posed by some chemically treated lumber."

Maureen

"Demand for Trex decking and railing has been very strong. (Third quarler 2002 revenue rose ffiVo to $49.5 million, with net income up 79Vo to $6.1 million.) You can extrapolate that the category has done well, largely based on Trex decking and railing having an e$tirneled 55.M*, market share. The alternative decking market (cq{spqsjtss and plastic products) has an estimated 6-BVo sf the- errtire decking market. Although it is difficult ta ps*-$ct growth

Murray (Trex/composite)

r How has recent demand and production of composite/plastic decking been? What do you anticipate. particularly in the short term?

rates of alternative lumber sales, it appears the industry will at least continue its 25-30Vo historical growth."

Dick Gauth ier ( U n iv e r s al F o re st P roduct s/Ev e rX c o mpo s it e )

"Demand for composite decking is estimated to be $480 million for 2002. The expected growth will be slightly less than 207o next year-about $570 million for 2003. An annual growth rate of about l87o is expected through 2006. We estimate demand to be $900 million by 2006."

Martin Grohman

(Correct Building Products/CorrectDeck composite)

"As a small manufacturer, we were warned that the big companies like CertainTeed and LP were going to come in a turn this into a commodity. We haven't seen that at all. The products are getting better. People are looking for more bang for their buck."

John Pruett ( C e rt ainTe e cl/B o erdw alk c omp o s it e, Ev e rNew and Bffiech vin.,"l)

"The overall decking market has been growing slightly; the composite decking market is growing exponentially. Boardwalk's sales doubled in the last year."

Lynn Goode ( Mikron Industries/vinyl)

"I see that the demand will just continue to skyrocket. From 1997 to 2001, the overall decking industry grew at about 87o per year. During the same period, alternative decking grew at 857o ro 95Vo a year. There's been a huge shift in marketshare-and that was prior to the CCA issue. Alternative decking now has its foothold. In 1997, it had less than 5Vo of the overall decking market. Within the next four to five years, I wouldn't be surprised ifit had 40-507o.

"The motivator of the growth has been the consumer, who is concerned about maintenance issues. About 637o of decks are made from pressure treated southern pine; it's cheap and it's abundant, but it warps and checks."

John Robinson (The Plastic Lumber Co./plastic)

"Despite a softening economy in the third and fourth quarters, demand was off projections but still strong. Plastic lumber decking boards posted a l5vo gain over the past year, as consumers and contractors became more comlortable with the product. We anticipate a surge in demand, barring a war with Iraq. We feel many consumers have been cautious about making significant expenditures for the past two seasons, and there is pent-up demand."

Mfke Moseb y (RPM/DuraBord plastic)

"Demand and production have been increasing at a rate of approximately 5OVo per year. Our growth in DuraBord plastic lumber is expected to expand by approximately 15/20 times for 2003 and double that in 20&t. We are just getting ready to bring on a second line in 2003. Our emphasis in the past was to sell to local retail lumber yards, deck builders and the general public via the Internet. Our current plan is to sell our plastic lumber products via wholesale distribution in the Western states."

Rick Wier (Kroy Building Products/vinyl)

"Decking in general is expanding about 77o annually; however, alternative products to wood are growing over 25Vo. About 900,000-plus new decks were constructed this year, and almost 3.5 million replacement projects were undertaken in 2002. Replacement decks are 20Vo larget than the original deck. Composite or alternative deck material is expected to grow well into the double digits as far out as the research projects project. Through 2006, the growth is expected to continue rnthe257o range."

Dave Stamm en ( Dat t on Tec hnolo gie s/vinyl )

"Demand fbr plastic/composite decking has been steadily growing, with the marketplace becoming more aware of, and more comfortable with, these materials. Production definitely appears to be increasing, from what our competitors have advertised. We anticipate the same growth through 2003 as was in 2002. Market share will continue to be taken by plastics and composites, but the overall decking market will remain steady."

Derek Morin (CPI/Eon plastic)

"Our 2001 sales were $14 million, 2002 sales were $20 million, and in 2003 we budgeted for $30 million."

r How much of an effect has the phase-out of CCA treated products had on plastic/composite decking demand and production, and what do you see happening when the CCA ban hits in 2004?

Goes (Nen'vood)

"With the phasing out of CCA, we expect to see a variety of alternative treating methods that may or may not perform as well as CCA. As a result, homeowners are going to be looking for decking alternatives that outlast haditional lumber, and new treating methods. By 2004 we think that dealers and deckbuilders who haven't been exposed to composite decking products are going to find themselves scrambling for an alternative to treated lumber."

Brennan (TimberTech)

"The effect it's had is making people investigate other options. A lot of yards are still selling CCA, and it sounds like many will until the last minute. We didn't see much effect in 2OOZ, Uut expect to in '03 and especially in '04."

Gauthier (UFPI)

"The robust sales growth in composites began long before any perceived safety concerns occured regarding CCA, so we don't see the CCA ban as a significant driver of composite sales. Demand for CCA is still high, and we predict will remain strong for its successor preservatives in 2004. Since the new chemicals will drive up treated lumber costs by anywhere from l5-25%o, however, that may help steer some consumers-for whom price is the primary decision driver-toward composites."

Furtner ( Wey e rhae us e r)

"It is very difficult to quantify the impact of the treated lumber situation on composite decking, especially when ChoiceDek sales growth is as strong as we have seen recently. I feel that the confusion that generally accompanies the phase out of CCA combined with the uncertainty

about the cost and reliability of alternative treated products will very likely result in additional growth in the sales of composites. The new treated products are more expensive than those being replaced. The cost differential between treated and composites is lessening."

Long(Kadant)

"Certainly the phase-out fiom a public awareness point of view will give us some additional opportunity, but, keep in mind that all of the treaters are converting to other chemicals, so they will still be around and will continue to hold market share in the deckins arena."

Shaner (Epoch)

"In part, it depends on who you listen to. There is general agreement that, as the price gap closes, more people will switch to composites. Price is important, but it is too simple an excuse for not converting sales from wood to composites. There is another dynamic involved and it's fundamental. Face it, Americans have never been afraid of paying more for quality. But how America defines quality is a question we, as an industry, need to ask. The stakes are higher than a few years ago. Today, low maintenance and high performance is what gets you into the game not price."

Fred Costelf o (Fiber Composites/Fiberon composite)

"Difficult to measure. It can only strengthen the trend toward wood substitutes over time."

Long(LP)

"It will have a significant effect. Consumers and municipalities are already concerned about the potential environmental and health effects of CCA treated lumber and are seeking alternatives. And while there are alternative treated wood products they are more expensive than CCA treated wood. This drives the price of the wood products higher and closer to composite wood."

Grohman (CorrectDeck)

"Pressure treated wood is the 800-pound gorilla. Yet, CCA treatment is rot preventive. It doesn't do anything to warping, cupping or checking. In l0 years-or less-it's time for a CorrectDeck."

Murray (Trex)

"Many lumber distributors and dealers have already begun to offer alternatives to CCA-treated lumber, in anticipation of the ban. We think that the phase-out of CCA has caused many contractors and homeowners to consider alternatives. Anecdotally, we've seen more of our TrexPro contractors doing remediation, also known as 'tear-offs."'

Pruett (CertainTeed)

"The ban of CCA has only accelerated the acceptance and growth of wood plastic composite decking. And, it's helped support our price point because ACQ and other alternatives are l0qo to 207o more expensive."

Morin (CP1,)

"Some of the players are making a big deal out of it, but ours is a premium product that's less likely to compete witl pressure treated wood. We're another upsell on composite decking. Certainly, the change will positively affect (plastic decking) demand, but treated wood still has to be used for the understrucfure."

$tammen (Dayton)

, , "!Jp to this point, we have not seen a dramatic 4pswing due to the CCA ban. It allows for big points in literature, but wood is still being used more than we anticipnied,il r,,,,, ' i, it itiil i' r, r '

l

Wier (Kroy)

"There are a couple of things going on here. CCA has been very good for composites, particularly in marine applications. Surface deck board is on the rise because of this. Everyone is scrambling right now to come up with a load bearing composite piling and substructure for the remainder of the deck system. Most thought the answer was ACQ, however, ACQ may attack galvanized hangers on docks, requiring the use of expensive stainless steel hangers. Nobody has the perfect answer...yet! Kroy is actively on the hunt for the right combination of products. So are others. When the products are identified the market for marine and other EPA effected areas is so big, I'm not sure we can measure the size of the market."

Goode (Mikron)

"Absolutely it has had an effect, but not a striking effect. It's the perception; building material companies are staking their claim to fame by advertising their eco-friendliness. Dunn Lumber in the Seattle area has done a great job spreading the word and creating a captive market. The CCA ban will add to the momentum."

Robinson (Plastic Lumber Co.)

"We expected the CCA backlash to hit last season, but it had little effect. We expect to feel it strongly this season, as the media begin to track the story more and awareness grows."

Moseby (DuraBord)

"We feel that this will help the sales of plastic lumber and composite lumber. Treated lumber accounts for 85Vo of the decking market, with cedar/redwood l}Vo and plastic/ composite 5Vo. We expect plastic/composite products will grow 50Vo per year. We also feel that plastic products will grow at a faster growth rate than composites as the endusers becomes more educated to the advantases of olastic."

r Over the last year or so, many large pressnre treaters have begun evolving into more generic wholesalers by beginning to stock alternative products. What are your thoughts on this phenomenon? Has your company worked with pressure treaters?

Long(Kadnnt)

"We currently distribute Geodeck through four different treating companies in nine different locations, throughout the U.S. Their sales are growing at the same Face..bs.,our forest product and building material wholeqalers."

Gauthier (UFPI)

"Many pressure ffeaters see market share slipp riliiliiiV

and have chosen to embrace, rather than fight, the evolution in both alternatives technology and consumer tastes. UFPI treats lumber, distributes several brands of composite decking and manufactures its own brand."

Moseby (DuraBord)

"I have had numerous talks with treaters, and they have shown interest in our products. There is a lot of confusion as more composite manufacturers come on line so it will be a learning process for some of them to understand the differences between the various composite lumber products and plastic lumber products."

Brennan (TimberTech)

"Yes, we have been working with treaters for several years. I think they saw composites eroding into their business and also a way to make more margin than with wood."

Furtner (W ey e rhae use r)

"We supply a lot of lumber products to treaters. It makes complete sense that treaters may want to supply composite decking with their treated lumber products. Remember, composite decking products still use treated or other decay resistant framing for joists, girders, and posts."

Goes (Nexwood)

"Nexwood has not worked with pressure treating companies. We try to focus on a clean distribution channel to dealers/lumberyards through wholesalers/distributors."

Shaner (Epoch)

"No we haven't, though we have had conversations with several over the past few months."

Murray (?"rex)

"As more and more consumers recognize the benefits of alternatives to wood for their decking needs, it is natural that more businesses will take notice and try to supply that need. Since the combination of a pressure treated framing system and alternative decking surface and railing makes an ideal deck, it is not surprising that wood treaters are distrifuting -the complete package. Trex is not currently di$tributed through any treaters.

Wier fKroy)

, 1:Yes, many wood treaters are beginning to stock altgna: tive products to wood. More for their own,lorlg,.term preservation as wood becomes less desirable Gvef the-next t0 years. lt will be a huge conversion. Kroy has not worked with pressure treaters, however we have been approaehed by very large deck and dock builders who are *re treaters' direct customers."

Long(LP)

"We have not."

Costello ( F ibe r Compo s ite s )

"New, late enffy manufacturers find that traditional lumber and building materials distributors are already carrying at least one composite and are not available to them. Treaters, who are losing market share to composites, are the only viable distribution channel remaining to these smaller manufacturers because of their ability to top-load regular deliveries to the retail yards."

Morin (CPl)

"Because we do so much business with Home Depot, they like that we are distributed through some of the largest pre$sure keaters*-€reat Southern, Rocky Top, MacFarland Cascade-because they're at the stores all the tirne."

Stammen (Dayton) '':

"We have not worked with pressure treaters; however, we have seen the same with the larger lumber distributors opening their doors to plastic/composites.'o

Robinson (Ptastic Lumber Co.)

"We are a regional decking manufacturer and focus on small distributors that can sell the added value of plastic as well as educate homeowners and contractors on proper installation. We have not developed a relationship with any pressure treaters."

at your company?

Murray (Trex)

"Last year, Trex changed its product name to Trex Decking and Railing, to emphasize is full line of railing components. This railing component line continues to expand in 2003, with several new railing products debuting at the International. Builders Show. A thinner baluster profile will be introduced in all five Trex cotot$. And, abeauti. fully crafted, new style of chamfered handrail, along with a pyramid-style post cap and a post skirt to finish,off,the:base of the railpost will be offered in 2003. tn 200?; $addle, a deep tan color that lightens only slightly, was added."

Long(Kadant)

"We are adding several new trim pieces to the Geodeck line, including a decorative post cap and b&se, as well as a fascia board and starter trim piece for our T&G decking."

Grohman (CorrectDeck)

"We have introduced the Correct-Deck Signature Series, a 'groove-and-groove' deck board that features a hidden fastener system and a quick, easy installation method."

Brennan (TimbeiTech)

"We just introduced a decorative rail system, the Ornamental Railing System, in 6-ft. and 8-ft. kits, in four colors-cedar, gray, redwood and natural."

Furtner (Weyerhaeuser)

"We just introduced the new ChoiceDek Decorative Handrail line of products. Our handrail has been fully test-

(Please turn to page 21) , :::iI I

Anything new in regards to plastic/composite products

THE most successful businesses I regularly review the quality of their professional relationships.

"But this is so obvious," people say. "We understand what we have to do to be successful." Even though the basics may be obvious, how many of us are 1007o successful? Are you reviewing the basics to ensure your success?

Let's see if your business is sweating the basics. If you purchase products for your business, it's a good idea to regularly review the quality of the relationships with your suppliers, making certain that they are closely aligned to your needs. In the quest for more business, you need to state the obvious to your vendors, telling them specifically what you expect from them. It doesn't hurt to emphasize how you plan on measuring their performance. This means that you should be having regular conversations with your vendors about the basics-are they meeting your requirements and making you happy?

Here is a basic seven-point measuring tool for evaluating a supplier's performance:

1. Quality products. This is a top priority and is the most important component. "Well, that's obvious," many of you will say. However, are we consistently obtaining this objective? If the goods you've purchased break or don't live up to your expectations, you are likely to disappoint your customers or your co-workers. So, you must review the quality of the merchandise your vendors are shipping to you.

2. On-tim" delivery. Vendors must deliver exactly when you need it

s there q eqk link ln your ply chqin?

By Merrill Lehrer

or your business will suffer. On-time delivery needs to be clearly spelled out to suppliers. Vendors need to be told precisely when the goods are required: before the date, exactly on that day, or within a window of days afterwards.

Although on-time delivery is basic and obvious, you should periodically review that everyone involved understands these specifications.

3. Competitive prices. We live in a competitive world, and someone is always undercutting the market's prices. Competifive prices don't mean that vendors are always giving you the lowest price (although that would be nice), but they are reasonable. More experienced purchasers understand that price isn't the only determining factor. Cheap is cheap, and quality doesn't come at the lowest price.

4. Co--,,ttication. You need suppliers that communicate with you. If you require parts or products, and have very specific needs, you need a supplier that can understand that.

So many problems in the world today are tied to bad communication. We're all sending out signals, like FM radio stations, expecting others to have the proper equipment to receive our messages. However. sometimes we utilize unclear language or the message gets garbled along the way. There's lots of static in the air. Communication is critical to your success with suppliers.

5. N"*, cutting edge products. The best suppliers are energizing and reinventing their goods on a regular basis. If you're dealing with a supplier whose goods that are becoming

stale, how long before you'll want to end that relationship? Great suppliers reinvent themselves and their products frequently, letting you know that they are always supplying you goods that are the best design and most current in the marketplace.

Suppliers that are the industry's experts are constantly researching their customer's needs and adapting their products to meet these needs. Buying goods from the best suppliers helps to make your business stronger.

6. Profitability. If you can't make a decent profit because your suppliers are overcharging you, obviously you won't be buying from them forever (unless you want to go out of business). Challenge your vendors to help you stay profitable. The best suppliers have an appreciation for their accounts and negotiate winning deals to keep the business.

Profitability goes both ways, however. If you hammer your suppliers into the ground, demanding lower prices, ultimately they won't be profitable either. Who are we going to buy merchandise from if we kill all our suppliers?

7. Integrity. Yes, that's a crirical component, too. Integrity is a wholesome word, implying honesty, honor, truthfulness, and reliability. If you're buying merchandise from a supplier that provides quality goods at reasonable prices; delivers them when you want them; provides quality service; knows how to communicate with you, and creates innovative, new products-that is great. If they do all that and they have integrity, that is outstanding. Then, you have picked a fine business partner.

Hopefully, all seven basics are focal points of your businesses. Yet, there's another factor that creeps into this discussion: reality. We may all understand the basics, but it often requires a superhuman effort to enact them. In the real world, each of us is faced with intense workloads and priorities that shift on a daily, or hourly, basis. However, the best organizations never lose site of the basicsthey're imprinted on their walls, engraved in their minds, and reinforced during every company-wide meeting.

- Merrill Lehrer is the author o/Retail Detailed: Secrets to Selling Retail Chain Stores and a speaker specializing in manufacturing, sales and retail consulting; www. re tail- s amurai- s ale s. c om.

briets

Rrrnr:ns

New Martinsville Supply/Ace Home Center has relocated to a new, larger facility in New Martinsville, W.V.

Lowe's Cos. opened a replacement store Dec. 18 in Dalton, Ga. (Jim Wills, mgr.), and is considering a site in York, S.C.

Scotty's opens a new store this month in Ocala. Fl. ...

Home Depot this month opens new home centers in Charleston, W.V., and Frankfort, Ky., as well as new HD Landscape Supply stores in Arlington, Tx., and Snellville, Ga. ... the chain will open 200 stores this year and spend $250 million remodeling older locations ...

Home Depot is eyeing the 13acre property Kmart is abandoning in North Winter Haven. Fl.. and had its plan for a 129,000-sq. ft. unit on 15 acres in Palm Coast. Fl.. approved by the city council ...

lUrorrslr:ns/tlrurrcrunrns

Canadian provinces are weighing a proposal by the U.S. Commerce Department to resolve the softwood lumber dispute by moving Canada to market-based stumpage practices, such as timber auctions

Elswick Lumber, Dixie, W.V., secured a $374,000 loan to rebuild its sawmill destroyed by fire

FAX us your news!

Have a notice of your recent expansion, promotions or other company changes published in the next issue of Building Products Digest!

Just FAX your news to 949-852-0231.

(a ftee seNice)

Fleming Lumber Co., Milligan, Fl., is filing appeals for assistance to reopen its 50-year old sawmill shuttered in October due to the trade dispute with Canada

Inter-State Hardwoods, Bartow. W.V., obtained a $500,000loan for a 40,000-sq. ft. expansion and to add a new moulder and planer

Louisiana- Pacific Corp. has sold 9,000 acres of timberland near Urania, La., for $6.4 million to Barrs & Glawson Investments, which a month before bought 33,000 acres near Oakdale, La., from L-P for $30 million (see Jan. p., IA ...

Dixon Lumber, Eufala, Al., had a $3,000 Lincoln welder stolen Sunday morning Dec.22 ...

International Paper's Springhill, La., sawmill, down since midNovember, will remain curtailed indefinitely ...

Alcoa Home Exteriors agreed to buy Owens Corning's vinyl production facility in Atlanta, Ga.; the transaction, expected to close by April, must be approved by OC's bankruptcy court judge; the plant had been scheduled for closure

Congoleum Corp., the target of 13,000 asbestos-related lawsuits, plans to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection

APA-The Engineered Wood Association will close its international offices in Japan, Mexico and the U.K. effective March l0

Anthony Forest Products, El Dorado, Ar., recently had its timber operations certified in accordance with the Sustainable Forestry Initiative

Rawle s -Aden Building P roducts, Petersburg, Va., and L.B. Plastics Co., Mooresville, N.C., donated vinyl railings for the porch at

National Sash & Door Jobbers Association's New Port Richev" Fl., headquarters ...

Weyerhaeuser's Sutton, W.V., OSB facility has earned ISO 14001 certification ...

The Minka Group,lighting supplier, is moving to a 356,000-sq. ft. DC in Concord, N.C., more than double the size of its current East Coast distribution hub in Charlotte. N.C.

Tweco Products will close its Wichita, Ks., factory within the next 12 months and relocate operations to Denton. Tx. .,.

Universal Forest Products was named to Forbes magazine's Platinum 400, which honors the 400 best performing U.S. firms ...

Marley Mouldings, Marion, Va., provided the casings for the window systems on the Habitat for Humanity home featured at last month's International Builders Show in Las Vegas, Nv. ... il

Tree-D, Inc., Tallahassee, Fl., is a new associate member of the Southern Forest Products Association..,

New Web sites: Veneer Profiles, Inc., www.veneerprofiles.com Medford Moulding Co., www. medfordmoulding.com

Anniversaries: Stallworth Lumber Co., Meridian, Ms., 85th Woodcraft Supply Corp., Parkersburg, W.V., 75th ... Hoke Lumber, Davidson, N.C., 60th Bondurant Lumber, Flamaton, Al., 50th .. Follen Wood Preserving, Jackson, Ms., 45th ... Cedar Supply Co., Carrollton, Tx., 35th United Forest Products, Spartanburg, S.C., 20th

Housing starts in Dec. (latest figures) rose 57o to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.835 million single-family starts climbed 4.9Vo to 1.473 million; multi-family climbed to a rate of 321,000 for 5+ units... permits jumped 8.27o to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.88 million ... for 2002, housing starts rose 6.4Vo to 1, 704.900 units.

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

FrsRunnv

International Mass Retail Assn. - Feb. 11-14, store operations and h.r. seminar, Caribe Royale, Orlando, Fl.; (703) 841-2300.

National Roofing Contractors Association - Feb. ll-14, annual convention, New Orleans, La.: (847) 299-9070.

Independent Building Supply Assn. - Feb. 13-14, buying show, Kingston Plantation, Myrtle Beach, S.C.; (919) 934-7616.

Greenprints 2003 - Feb. 13-15, environmental conference & trade show, Hyatt Regency, Atlanta, Ga.; (404) 872-3549.

Mississippi Building Material Dealers Assn. - Feb. 13-L5, annual convention, Silver Star, Philadelphia, Ms.; (601) 267-5522.

Moore-Handley Inc. - Feb. 14-16, spring show, Jefferson Convention Complex, Birmingham, A1.; (205) 663-8235.

Texas Home & Garden Show - Feb. 14-16. Fort Worth Convention Center, Fort Worth, Tx.; (800) 654-1480.

Builder Marts of America - Feb. 16-19, spring market, Paris Casino Resort, Las Vegas, Nv.; (864) 281-3633.

International Mass Retail Association - Feb. 16-19, Logistics 2003, Orlando, Fl.; (703) 841-2300.

North American Wholesale Lumber Association - Feb. 16-19. management school, Downers Grove, Il.; (800) 52'7-8258.

Wood Moulding & Millwork Producers Assn. - Feb. 19-22, annual meeting, New Orleans, La.; (800) 550-7889.

Carolinas Woodworking & Furniture Supply Show - Feb. 2021, Greensboro Convention Center, Greensboro, N.C.; (828) 459-9894.

National Wooden Pallet & Container Association -Feb.22-25, annual meeting & expo, Marco Island, Fl.; (703) 527-766'7.

Window & Door Manufacturers Assn. - Feb.22-26. annual meeting, Sheraton Bal Harbor, Miami, Fl.; (847) 299-5200.

National Frame Builders Association - Feb. 26-28, FrameBuilders expo, Gaylord Palms, Orlando, Fl.; (800) 557 -6957

Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers, Inc. - Feb. 26-March 2, annual convention, Hilton, Destin, Fl.; (336) 885-8315.

Texas Home & Garden Show - Feb. 28-March 2. Austin Convention Center, Austin, Tx.; (800) 654-1480.

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Hardware Distribution Warehouses, Inc. - March 1-2, spring trade mart, Jackson, Ms.; (800) 256-8527.

Kentucky Forest Industries Assn. - March 3-4, annual meeting, Marriott's Griffin Gate, Lexington, Ky.; (800) 203-9217.

Kentucky Lumber & Building Material Dealers AssociationMarch 3, blueprint reading class; March 4-6, estimating seminar, KLBMDA office, Louisville, Ky.; (.502) 245-6730.

ENAP, Inc. - March 6-8, spring show, Charlotte Convention Center, Charlotte, N.C.; (845) 564-4900.

Charlotte Woodworking Show - March 7-9, Merchandise Mart, Charlotte, N.C.; (800) 826-8257.

International Hardware Fair - March 9-12, The Fairgrounds, Cologne, Germany; (212) 974-8835.

Southern Forest Products Assn. - March 11-12, spring meeting, Le Meridien Hotel, New Orleans, La.; (504) 443-4464.

DeckExpo - March 12-15, expo, Hilton Atlanta, Atlanta, Ga., (678) 344-6238.

Ace Hardware Corp. - March 13-17, spring show, Las Vegas, Nv.: (630) 990-7662.

Houston Home Show - March 14-16, George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston, Tx.; (800) 654-1480.

Long-Lewis Hardware Co. - March 16-17, market, Birmingham Jeff'erson Civic Center, Birmingham. Al.; (205) 322-2561

Center for Forest Products Marketing & ManagementMarch 17, annual meeting, Blacksburg, Va.; (540) 231-5876.

Advanced composite technology that delivers results

FiberTechrM BenderBoard is an engineered composite utilizing proprietary technology that combines polyethylene with our patent pending, 100% recycled cellulose fiber. This high-performance bender board is not only superior to plastic, fiber, wood and other composite bender boards, it is also the environmentally responsible alternative to harvested wood products. FiberTechrM BenderBoard delivers bottom-line results as well. Our efficient, low cost manufacturing enables you to enjoy high profit margins not typically realized in this product category.

FiberTechrM BenderBoard is destined to become the first choice of professionals and do-it-yourselfers for use in both landscape and concrete forming applications.

For

product specifications and information

on becoming a FiberTechrM distributor or reseller, call us tof f free at 1-888-262-207O or visit our website at www.f ibertechpolymers.com.

For a free catalog of our complete line, call Sunbelt today. 800-353-0892 Ext. 215.

At Sunbelt, we understand that every,lumber yard is unique. Every business has different site and space restrictions and carries many different products. But no matter how different they are on the surface, all businesses want to operate as efficienfly and organized as possible...and to save money whenever possible.

Sunbelt can help. We design and installwarehouse racking and rack supported buildings that are tailor made to each customerts specific site and product mix. Weill get your inventory organized and protected from the elements. We can even engineer our buildings and rack systems for seismic conditions in all 50 states.

Sunbelt has been providing the same expert advice and high quality steel rack systems that lumber and building material dealers nationwide have come to rely on for more than 15 years. At Sunbelt, we provide solutions, let us show you the difference!

Composite And Plastic Deck Trends

(Continued from page I 3 )

ed and will be included in the next release of our National Evaluation Report. The system includes all of the components necessary to build multiple styles of handrails as well as the framing connections to ensure that it is built to meet requirements. We will introduce some very exciting additions to the ChoiceDek line later this year. Colored decking products are in the early stages of field testing. A new line of decking called ChoiceDek Performance Plus is now available in eastern Canada."

Shaner (Epoch)

"We've expanded the sales force to service our growing business. We're adding new sleek railing designs."

Goes (Nenuood)

"We started to manufacture all our products in three new colors in 2001. These colors (sequoia red, sierra brown and driftwood gray) are being introduced slowly throughout the U.S. and by the end of 2003 will be able to be ordered in most of the territories in which Nexwood is sold. In the same manner, Nexwood manufactures a tongue-and-groove profile that is very popular in the East and is slowly being introduced to other parts of the U.S."

Pruett (CertainTeed)

"New in 2003 are a post cap and a post base ring. We'll introduce decorative accessories in March. The post cap will be moulded not milled to bring the cost down and provide consistent aesthetics. We added a new tan color to our decking January 1."

Long(LP)

"In 2002 we introduced decking and railing in three colors: Pacific cedar, western redwood and driftwood gray. Coloring adds cost, but consumers have shown that the premium appearance is well worth the price. We have also introduced WeatherBest Crystal White Railing, a premium wood composite railing system with an integral co-extruded white PVC capstock. The system includes top and bottom rails, stair handrail, balusters and a 4x4 post sleeve."

Stammen (Dayton)

"Dayton Technologies has developed a new vinyl deck and rail program targeted to the two-step and one-step distributors. This vinyl plank will have two different colors on the same plank, allowing for reduced inventory at the distributor's site, and installation similar to that of wood products. It will be marketed under the name Dual-Deck. At the same time, we are near completion of releasing a composite profile, which will complement our vinyl program."

Morin (CPI)

"We are test-marketing a new fencing product. The main advantage is its light weight."

Wier (Kroy)

"We just completed spending $4 million on a composite line in our Fair Bluff facility to produce composite deck, rail and other materials. We will have some major product announcements in this arena, the first quarter of 2003."

Robinson (Plastic Lumber Co.)

"This coming season we will market two styles of railing. We are also branding our product 'Leisure Deck' and putting on a bigger marketing push."

Moseby (DuraBord)

"We are working on expanding our sales to wholesale distribution and manufacturers in the future."

otion news

Builders Supply Association of West Virginia will stage its annual convention March 28-29 at Oglebay Park, Wheeling.

Kentucky Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association is sponsoring a Bill Darling residential blueprint reading class March 3 and a residential framing lumber estimating seminar March 4-6 at its new offices in Louisville.

Lumberments Association of Texas has booked Bryan Dodge to speak at its annual convention April

SEC Stalks Florida lmporter

Former executives at Madera International, Coral Gables, Fl., are under investigation by the Securities and Exchanse Commission for

3-5 in Austin. During the LAT membership meeting and awards lunch, Dodge will address how to have your best year ever, create consistent upward growth in your life, and build a more powerful memory.

Construction Suppliers' Association is holding a long-form estimating seminar March 24-25 at the Holiday Inn, McDonough, Ga.

Deck Industry Association is launching itsfirst trade show, DeckExpo, March 13-15 at the Hilton. Atlanta. Ga.

allegedly falsifying financial statements.

The complaint, filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, concerns financial state-

lillI -Reioeai;.

ments from 1994 to 2000.

In particular, the complaint focuses on Madera's former v.p.-sales and marketing/c.e.o., Ramiro Rafael Fernandez.

Among the allegations is that Fernandez sold nearly 8 million shares of company stock that was artificially inflated due to fraudulent public disclosures. The stocks, sold from May 2000 to July 2001, netted Fernandez at least $68,791.65.

The complaint also alleges that Madera never acquired a valid legal title for the 730.000 acres of timberland in the Brazilian rainforest it claims to own.

Fl. Builder Partners With Chain

Building Materials Holding Corp., San Francisco. Ca.. has formed WBC Construction, Fort Lauderdale, Fl., a joint venture with a local construction company to contract with residential builders in Florida to produce sitebuilt home exteriors.

The new firm is owned 6OVo by BMHC and 40Vo by Willard Brothers Construction, which had more than $100 million in revenues durine fiscal year 2002.

Southern Yellow Pine

Stock Width Hardwood

Higginbotham's Sprucing Up New Stores

Higginbotham Bros. & Co., Comanche, Tx., has begun remodeling the first two of its 33 HigginbothamBartlett building centers it acquired late last year.

The company eventually will repaint, refixture and revamp the new locations as complete Do it Centers to coordinate with its previous stores. Work has already begun on stores in Eastland and Hereford, Tx. Next should be a vacated Kmart building in Sweetwater, Tx., which the company is negotiating to buy to replace its under-sized local yard.

The chain now operates 50 Higginbotham's, Big Tin Barn and Higginbotham-Bartlett locations throughout Texas. All stores will retain their existing names.

"We plan to operate the new locations in West and North Texas as complete building centers, offering hardware, lumber, lawn and garden, paint, tools and a complete line of building and home improvement supplies," said Bill Robinson, chief operating officer of holding company HigginbothamBC Holdings, Ltd.

The company will maintain

G0ttlP0stft

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6) Helps eliminate "mushrooming" in - composite decking material.

6l Dual thread design provides optimum - holding power and displaces less material.

6l Ovenized top thread traps most loose - composite material during installation.

@ Undercut head traps ily additional ." loose material, pushing it back into the hole while countersinking.

@ Sure Drive USA@'s exclusive Rustguad@ - cmting prcvides exellent mrcsion irotetion.

fi Patented WoodmasteP thread design starts - faster and slices through decking with minimal material distort.

ff The original Robetsono squile drive recess - provides positive bit engagement md eliminates driver bit cam out.

6) l0l8-1022 cme hildened steel for - maimum strength.

ai Available in TAN md GRAY ro match the - most populr deck colors.

Higginbotham-Bartlett' s headquarters in Lubbock as a divisional office. Jim Porter, Higginbotham-Bartlett president since 1982, is now a v.p. and division manager.

When both firms were founded, much of Texas was still wilderness, and the stores offered frontier settlers essential merchandise, including building and lumber supplies.

Higginbotham Bros. began in 1881 as a general mercantile store in Deleon, Tx. Established by brothers J.M. and R.W. Higginbotham, the company grew with the introduction of the Texas Central railroad. Higginbotham-Bartlett Co. began in1905 with a lumberyard in Roscoe, Tx., under the name of Higginbotham-Harris Co. and within six years grew to 10 locations across West Texas. By 1919, the company owned 16 yards, moved its headquarters to Dallas, and changed its name to Higginbotham-Bartlett Co. Ir added 15 yards in 1922, retained its existing locations through the Great Depression, and in 1972 relocated its general offices to Lubbock.

"I am especially excited about hav-

ing the two Higginbotham family companies together as one chain," said Rufus Higginbotham Duncan Jr., a fourth generation grandson of founder R.W. Higginbotham and c.e.o. of HBC Holdings.

Depot Expands Enviro Policy

Home Depot has vowed to purchase wood products only from suppliers committed to environmentally friendly harvesting practices.

The move expands on the chain's intention, announced in 1999, to stop selling wood from "endangered forests."

Since then, Depot has increased the amount of certified wood it buys and decreased sales of lumber from areas with questionable forestry practices. In 1999, Depot had five Forest Stewardship Council-certified vendors; it now deals with 40.

In addition, nearly all of the cedar it now buys comes from second-and third-growth forests and it has reduced its Indonesian lauan purchasesby 1OVo.

Each year, Depot sells about $5 billion of wood products-97o of its annual revenues.

CURVED staircases help sell homes faster-and for a higher price.

Steer Builders To Curved Stairs

How can dealers increase their own profits while helping their builder customers speed up sales, reduce home inventory and increase a home's sales price? According to

Staircase & Millwork Co., the solution may be a curved, flared, or spiral staircase.

The company has been concentrating on curved staircases to satisfy dealers, builders and homeowners.

According to Les Allegood, v.p. of Staircase & Millwork, "Many of our customers have found that their home value is enhanced by a curved staircase. It brings a new level of luxury to the entrance of the home, the first impression of the most important purchase of most people's lives."

Says Jeff Thomas, co-owner, Profile Signature Homes, Duluth, Ga.: "A curved staircase helps us differentiate our homes in the marketplace."

Ed Levin, president, Design Construction by Craftmaster, Atlanta, Ga., says, "The ambience of a curved staircase raises the perception of market value in the customer's mind. Most of our homes are custom contracts; the client and the architect have designed circular stairs into the plan."

Dealers can enjoy the high margins curved staircases provide by showing builders how the products can improve the profitability of their business. A builder wants to build a home and sell it as quickly as possible. Because of the financing costs, it costs the builder money every day a home is in construction and during its time on the market. By outsourcing the staircase, the builder is able to build the home faster because of our precision manufacturing process.

Builders also discover that homes with a curved staircase sell more rapidly because of the luxury appeal and elegance that high end customers desire. Quick building time combined with a faster selling process adds to the builder's bottom line.

"Reducing our carrying cost is very important," emphasizes Thomas, "and often a curved staircase can help sell a home faster."

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o ster dfiue/lou profile .

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The screw has an integrated washer head and is complemented with a E.P.D.M. sealing washer below the screw head. No predrilling is needed due to the MSS' multiple tip design, suitable for thin sidings as well as thick studs. The MSS is available in different colors to match siding appearance and is powder coated for exceptionally high corrosion resistance.

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plonting 1.7 million trees every doy is o smqrl invesfment.

The Sustoinoble Forestry Initiotiveo progrom is dedicoted to the future of the notion's forests, os well os the chollenge of preserving rore ond endongered forests oround the world. Respect for noture ond sound business proctices ore integroted to the benefit of the environment, londowners, shoreholders, customers ond the people they serve. And thot ollows us to meet the demond for wood ond poper products, while helping to ensure our forests will be oround forever.

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The best exhibits & buyinq show for building moteriql deolers in fie southwest

Austin, Texas - April 3-5, 2003

* One Doy exhibits & buyingshowonly - Soturdoy April 5, includes FREE lunch.

TAKE A CHANCE - SHOW ONLY SPECIALS & SPIFFS

TAKE A WALK - Dealers collect $200 at registration in MonopoLAT dollars to be used for Prize Drawings in every booth

ROLL THE DICE - Four $500 prizes awarded to attendees using the ACVB housing bureau & staying at LAT convention hotels

Prize Drawings, show specials in every booth!

* Golf on Thursdoy - April 3

* All meetings Fridoy - April 4

The LAT Membership Meeting & Awards Lunch willfeature Bryan Dodge on How to:

- Build a Better YOU

- Have your best year ever

- Create consistent upward growth in your life

- Build a more powerful memory

Richard J. Chapman, ex-James Hardie, has joined Builders FirstSource, Dallas, Tx., as v.p.-national sales and marketing. He succeeds Alan Davenport, who has been promoted to president of the Central Group.

Jim Perkins, ex-Louisiana-Pacific Corp., has joified the plywood sales staff of the brokerage division at Stringfellow Lumber Co., Birmingham, Al.

David Ford is the new store mgr. of Phillips Building Supply, Charlottesville, Va., a division of Moore's Lumber & Building Supplies.

Stanley Snowden has been named president and c.e.o. of Wallace Hardware Co., Morristown, Tn. He succeeds founder John Wallace, who will remain chairman.

Doug Rodermund, ex-Dixie Plywood, has joined Lumber Technology Corp., Houston, Tx., and will be responsible for sales in the South and Central U.S.

Ryan Coker, ex-United Forest Products, has joined Sunrise Wood Products. He is based in Taylor, S.C.

Casey O'Neil is the new Southeast sales representative for Adventure Lumber.

Rick Rivera is the new store mgr. at McCoy's Building Supply Center, Alice, Tx. Darien Swann is the new mgr. of the Manchaca, Tx., location.

David James has been named v.p.-new stores at Scotty's, Winter Haven, Fl., and is charged with scouting new locations for the 12-unit chain. David Stauter succeeds him as v.p.-hardware store operations.

Judy Walker is new to the hardwood sales team at Richmond Lumber Sales, Augusta, Ga.

John St. Onge is the new store mgr. at Lowe's, North Manassas, Va.

T. J. Coombs has been named president and c.o.o. at Forestweb. Atlanta. Ga.

John Stum is mgr. of the new Home Depot, Galveston, Tx.

George Lepage is the new Mid-Atlantic sales rep for Gillies & Prittie.

David Roark is now Houston/Southeast Texas sales representative for Cooper Wiring Devices.

George Sleet retired Jan. 3l as v.p. and secretary after 38 years with APA-The Engineered Wood Association.

Rosalie Leone, associate director, is overseeing operations of the National Sash & Door Jobbers Association, New Port Richey, Fl., following the resignation of executive director Linnea Johansson.

Jim Duke, Memphis Hardwood Flooring, Memphis, Tn., was elected president and a director of NOFMA-The Wood Flooring Manufacturers Association, Memphis.

Sam Sharp, Partee Flooring Mill, Magnolia, Ar., is v.p. Elected to the board were John Clark, Cherrybark Flooring, Hazlehurst, Ms.; Joe Thompson, Armstrong Wood Products, Addison, Tx.; Tommy Maxwell, Maxwell Hardwood Flooring, Monticello, Ar.; Paul Stringer, Somerset Wood Products, Somerset, Ky.; Ray Spivey Jr., Cumberland Lumber & Mfg. Co., McMinnville, Tn., and Bill Buchanan, Buchanan Hardwood Floors, Aliceville. A..

Edward Daly has been appointed v.p.-operations at the Forest Stewardship Council-U.S. Dr. Michael Washburn is now v.p.-forestry and marketing.

Celeste Wiatrak has been promoted to director of audit services at Ace Hardware Corp.

Ken Latiolais, ex-Johns Manville, has joined Urecoats Industries, Deerfield Beach, Fl. as v.p.-operations.

Anthony Sturrus, ex-Baldwin Hardware, has been named senior v.p. of Region North America of Pergo and president of Pergo Inc., Raleigh, N.C. He replaces Lars von Kantzow, who resigned in August.

Jay Blakenship, Columbus Cabinet Co., Columbus, Ga., was elected president of the Architectural Woodwork Institute, Reston, Va. Richard Ungerbuehler Sr., Federal Millwork Corp., Fort Lauderdale, Fl., is the new treasurer. Rick Kogler, Architectural Wood Products, Baton Rouge, La., is a new director.

Anthony M. Ciepiel was named c.e.o. of The Flood Co.

Susan Douglas is now executive director of the National Fenestration Rating Council, Silver Spring, Md. Reelected were board chair Tony Rygg, California Energy Commission; vice chair Randy Van Voorst, Quality Testing, and treasurer Roland Temple, Velux-America. Marvin Stover, Mikron Industries, is secretary.

Ruben A. Robles has been named v.p.-business development and retail brands for Alcoa Home Exteriors. Jeff Peskowitz is now director of marketing and sales for the Retail Brands Group.

Bob Wedgeworth, Marchant Lumber Co., Mountain Home. Ar.. has been elected chairman of North Central Arkansas Regional Economic Development.

Jade Spicer, Hairfield Lumber Co., Louisa, Va., is engaged to wed Tiffany Williams.

Marty Graw is now in charge of special events at MungusFungus Forest Products, Climax, Nv., report co-owners Hugh Mungus and Freddy Fungus.

A new twist tropical har

DY NOW. most of us have heard of Ilthe virtues of tropical hardwood decking-incredibly hard, durable, color consistent.

The world's tropical forests are full of thousands of different species of

trees. There are over 60 different meranti or Philippine mahogany species alone, mostly in the Shorea genus. ln a typical section of Brazilian rainforest, there are over l0 high density hardwood species, and another 20 low

STOCK THE ALI-PURPOSE

ALTERNATTIIE DIIIIID SIIT/TilIP CYIDIBIISS

SaVe mOney on your inventory by stocking DEEP SWAMP CYPRESS in place of redwood and cedar. This beautiful, versatile, all-around species, for exterior and interior use, finishes better than cedar or redwood and is more stable than southern pine.

We mill to your specsany pattern siding, plus S4S finish, fine bevel/bungalow or vertical sidings, interior paneling, ceiling, rvair-rscot and flooring. All kiln dried, from finish to common grade. No order too smnll.

density species, only some of which have commercial value.

Remember that tropical logging is done on a selective basis, as mandated by the governments of Braz1l, Bolivia, Paraguay, Indonesia and Malaysia. The trend lately has been to log as many species as possible to minimize the area over which harvesting is done, and to maximize the yield from the forest. Because of the selective harvesting, smaller trees are left standing and mature seed trees are left in place. The same section of forest can then be cut again in the next logging cycle in 40 to 60 years.

One of the latest products on the scene is TigerDeck, a naturally durable wood from Brazil with vivid color and grain characteristics.

According to Bob Hafner, president of exclusive distributor Timberl-ake Trading: "We performed extensive studies for many species from both

HARDWOOD decks of choice include (below) ipe, (upper right) Kayu batu, and (lower right) cambara.

IIAT0 tr ilIAKli lt. rlIAT0 Il lIAIill lt (NND.ilIATCNDD PTIODIIOTS)

Tfrcfvst neu cApress lumber prodtrcts to hit the market in the lo.st 5O gears!

IJTDIIIT FOIBIJST IDIBODI]OTS

1726W. Mill St., Crowley, LA7O526

Donald Elder or Robert Hopkins, call (8OO) 73A-226;6 t Fax337-783-2580

Arvin Compton, call (8OO) 25,6.-7197 Fax 337-625-5275

BRAZILIAN BOMBSHELL: New TiqerDeck.

'The World's Finest Cgypress Lumber Products"

Africa and South America, and TigerWood proved itself as one of the most weather resistant and beautiful species. The reception in the market has been incredible."

Another recent entry is Brazilian redwood, an extremely dense and naturally durable wood manufactured at Oregon-Canadian Forest Products' facility in South Carolina. One of the hardest and most durable species available, "Brazilian redwood has the look of clear all heart California redwood and the durability of ip6," says Oregon-Canadian v.p. Mike Holm.

Indonesia and Malaysia have shipped numerous varieties of meranti into the U.S. for over 50 years. One of the balau species, marketed as batu or Kayu Batu, has risen to the top as a premier decking species from Southeast Asia. Says Steve Wilson, Kayu International: "We are still having good success with our dark red meranti bukit, or hill meranti, but clearly batu has the best mix of characteristics of any decking material, including composites. The density and durability of our batu is closer to ip6 than dark red meranti, but the beauty is closer to the mahogany look, dark red and uniform. Maybe best of all, batu is as close to a maintenance-free decking material as there is."

New England has always been the hottest area of the country for meranti and, more recently, cambara. Now the rest of the country is beginning to catch on. Oregon-Canadian's Steve Getsiv says, "Cambara is a beautiful product. It's got consistent color, good durability. competitive pricing and a strong supply."

Improving yard storage requires experience and planning. Our architectural and engineering staffhas the necessary experience to advise you on complex issues, such as:

I Concept & Design Planning

I Zoning & Feasibility

I Site Coordination & Traffic Flow

I Lumber Organization & Handling

We help lower your costs by maximizing your available space and protecting inventory from weather damage with our unique "rack-supported" buildings. The rack system serves as BOTH storage and building support, resulting in:

I Improved Inventory Control

I Convenient Access for Customers

I Cost Effective & Flexible

'Whether you need standard racking, bulk sheds or an integrated storage building, we've got you Covered!

roducts

Fastener Your Seat Belts

PrimeSource Buildins Products has introduced a new line of commercial and residential construction fasteners that are said to resist corrosion and prevent discoloration and stainlng.

PrimeGuard Plus nails and screws are available in BTM Coatins. stainless steel for working with dedar or redwood, and aluminum for use with gutters and trim.

- Please contact (972) 417-3701

o r v is it www.p rime s ourcebp. com

Can't Burn This Breather

Benjamin Obdyke's three-dimensional nylon underlayment for wood roofing has received a Class A fire ratins.

Swan Style Deck Fastening

Swan Secure Products has introduced a packaged "invisible" deck fastening system that contains an installation guide and enough fasteners to install 100 sq. ft. ofdecking.

EB TY Square Pack consists of

Substrate Super Product

A bendable substrate said to be a economical substitute for bendine panels is new from Interior Products.

- Plectse contact (800) 966-2801 or so online at www,.swansecure.com

Rock Cleat is 54" long and reportedly allows for easy full board installation across wall and ceiling studs.

- Please contact (888) 923-8799

One Tough HVAC Hombre

A new fastener tool from PowerFast reportedly stands up to the repetitive fastening required in HVAC applications.

Cedar Breather can now be installed with fire treated wood shingles or shakes without compromising its fire rating.

- Please contact (800) 523-5261

EconoKore is a 2-ply product for use in radius projects and is installed using traditional fabricating tools.

- Please contact (800) 637-3539 or go online at www.interiorproducts.

Getting Drywall Up

Crane Products Ltd. has introduced a rigid thermoplastic foam mounting fastener for drywall installation.

Outward Clinch Staplegun features a bottom load magazine, staple reload window, and a locking handle that is said to reduce staple waste.

- Please contact (800) 858-8501 or go online at wwu.desaint.c()m

Lift This Power Stacker

A power lift stacker for lighrduty material handlins is new from Multiton MIC Com.-

Model SM 15i20, a walk-behind stacker, is available in a single mast for 62" lift or a telescopic mast for lifts up to 130".

- Please contact (804) 737-7400 or go online at www.multiton.com

stainless steel Swaneze deck screws and polypropylene biscuit fasteners for cedar, redwood, ip6, mahogany, PTL and composite deck constructlon.

Aluminum Accordion Doors

Woodfold-Marco Mfg. has introduced aluminum accordion folding doors that are custom made to order.

Let's House Wrap lt Up

A new housewrap from Reemay meets Type I air barrier requirements and has a optimal perm rating of 13.9.

Typar HouseWrap reportedly prevents air penetration into the wall cavity and is the equivalent to 5/8" particleboard in stopping air leakage.

- Please contact (800) 284-2780 o r v is it www. typa rhous ew rap. com

A Hex On You

Bondhus Corp. has introduced a line of hex tools to reach screws in obstructed areas.

Stubby hexes are made of Protanium steel and are said tobe2OVa stronger than similar products.

- Please contact (800) 32883 10 or go online at www.bondhus.

4O-year limited warranty. Pinnacle Premier Designer

Shingles feature a shadow line to simulate wood shakes, full random cuts to ease installation, and an analgaeresistant option for added protection.

- Please contact (770) 952-1442 or go online at www.atlasrooJing.com

Wallboard Ink Maestros

Matthews International has introduced a black ink-jet printing system for wallboard manufacturers that is said to luse 7O7o less ink than traditional drop-on-demand ink-jet marking systems.

SCP-610 ink is used with the S.C.I. F.I. 3200 small character, ink-jet printing system and is designed in conjunction with the target printing system.

- Please contact (412) 665-2500 o r v is it www. matthew smarkin p. c om

Talk To The Field Crew

Alumifold doors come with either solid or decorative perforated panels that incorporate a single solid aluminum extruded body panel in a clear anodized finish.

- Please contact (503) 357-7181 or g,o online at www.woodfold.com

Fabulous Forklift Facts

A 6,000-lb. capacity industrial pneumatic tire forklift truck that incorporates telescopic boom technology instead of vertical mast design is new from Sellick Equipment Ltd.

Keep The Heat In The House

A solid foam core panel for wall insulation that is said to have an Rvalue that outperforms conventional stud construction is new from Insulspan Inc.

Insulspan is made of expanded polystyrene foam sandwiched between two pieces of OSB.

- Please contact (800) 726-3501 or go online at www.insulspan.com

Roofing With Panache

Atlas Roofing Corp. has introduced a laminated fiberglass mat shingle that comes with either a 30- or

New Web access platform technology that keeps office and field staff in communication is new from Clip Software.

Teletruk can reach over and lift a 3,500-lb. load from the other side of a truck, trailer or rail car. The carriage f'eatures 11l"of tilt.

- Please contact (519) 738-2255 or visit www. s e I lickequipme nt. c om

Clip Connect provides real-time information exchange using a Webenabled cellular phone. All information for invoicing a customer is said to be automatically updated.

- Please contact (800) 635-8485 or go online at www.clip.com

8* ttta*lt *g', J*{s.h* F0t.t ,&at-rFtt .dt atl &t*t&ait:filf J|'i gtf,t, tt"0?'.n on ony New Product

is ovoiloble by colling the monufocturer directly or by visiting its Web site.

l.rriillUrr 1r,:;'i. lrf i rl'l

Cloply lluilrl ing Pr.odr,rcts Iras introrltrcctl u rrcri line ol'wintlow l'catulcs t() its linc ol'stccl ga|a{c rlo0r's.

Studio ('ollcclion l'catr,rlcs lirrrr rrcrv clcsigtrs thal cun bc rrrixctl and rrratclrccl to coordir)atc uith the look ol a honrc.

J-hc ri inclou s have a bcrclccl qlass look uith platinunr-colored canting.

l)lctr:e t orttucl ( E00) 215-67)9 or so ottlirte rtt rl ll ll ( 1()1)t/r'd()()t"(ot||

Natural Bew*V, AgeLess @*c j''

Brucc Harclriood Flools has intro rlLrced Flench uhitc oak uoorl I'loor'ing n ith n or.lcl slains ntillcrl in Ion1t. l i ncar pattelns.

The hardlr oocl llooring is rcpot'tcrllv crtretnelt hlLrcl. clullLblc urrcl u e urfeslstilnt.

Plctt.st' ( ()nt(t( t t8OO) 72)-1(t!7 tlr go ttttIittt' ttI wtt t.ItrttL t'.t ttttt

l"{;tnc{rnq iltlrth HWI\' iJ,,i'

A ;rolyploPvlcnc rrronol'iIuntcnt wcbbing lir. hanging HVA(' cluct that cun bc attlrchcrl to thc sul)port ntentl'rcr-usinlt lr nuil is ncr,r ll-ont Nelco [)rorlrrcts.

adeep, natural wood grain that endures, EVERGRAIN'" premium composite decking by EPOCH is available in five rich colors. E\4,RGRAIN' Decking never requires painting, staining or sealing and is your perfect choice for natural beauty and ageless value.

Nclco I)uclMastct' conl'oInts to Lll-7li lccprircnrcrrts ancl is saicl to be cusicr to install than cortventional nrctill strlrlll)i r)1].

l'It'tr.st' (()ttIu( l (800) -l16--l526 rtt t i.tit wvt.ttcIt tt1tnttlttcts.cottt

Gilligan lsland Flooring

Flooring made of 1007o plantation grown coconut palm lumber with a color that ranges from medium to dark mahogany is available from Smith & Fons.

said to be virtually maintenance free and resistant to insects.

Boardwalk has a Class I fire rating and comes with a 10-year limited warTanty.

-Please contact (800) 233-8990 or go online at www.certainteed.com

Pre-Cast Goncrete Gzar

A fastening system for pre-cast concrete applications that is said to save time and utilize less labor is new from PCE Engineering Oy Ab.

Stacking The Deck

Chesapeake Hardwood Products has introduced a decking line made from South American hardwoods jatoba and massaranduba.

Executive Decking line features radius edge profiles of 5/4" or 414" massaranduba and 4" and 6" widths. Posts are jatoba, while balusters are jatob:-r or massaranduba.

Pleuse contuL't (800) 146-8162 r;r go online ut vt'w,tt'.cltltt.totrr

Durapalm is said to be as stable as red oak and hard maple flooring and features a non-formaldehyde finish with no VOC emissions. It is 3 I 4" x3"x1 2" and features tongue-and groove on fbur sides.

Please contact (866) 835-9859 or go online at wwvr.pl)-boo.con1

The Composite Boardwalk

CertainTeed Corp. has introduced composite decking and railing that is

Elematic Fastening Method can be used with walls, panels, beams, fences, and flooring products. The system reportedly is reusable from cast to cast.

Please contuL'I (262) 798-9777 or utr ttnlint (tl v'n'u.(l<'m(tli(.(()m

Dynamic Vinyl Products

Railing Dynamics Inc. has introduced new railing system to its line of vinyl products.

Endurance features structural porch compliant handrails.

new colors and a deck and railing posts and ADA or go online at

New Cypress Products Hit The Market

Elder Forest Products, Crowley, La., is introducing what it claims are the first new cypress products to enter the market in 50 years.

The first new product is a R/L interior paneling/ceiling wainscot item that Elder is marketing under the brand name Fine-Line.

Fine-Line is reversible with a pattern on one side and "v-edges" on the reverse. It is available in 518x4", 5/8x6" and 5/8x8".

Elder is also manufacturing endmatched products to be sold under the Match-Maker name. These items come in several patterns and are available in 1x4", 1x6" and 1x8". A 3/8" product will also be available.

Match-Maker products will be packaged in cardboard cartons and all shipments will be palletized.

Capital Lumber Turns 55

Capital Lumber Co., Phoenix, Az., this year is celebrating its 5-5th year of continuous operation.

The company was founded in 1948 by George Gaskin with one truck and

"Our packaging methods will assure clean and damage-free products to our distributors and in turn to our retail lumber dealers." said

Donald Elder.

As part of the manufacturing process, Elder upgraded its Crowley mill to produce the new products. The plant underwent another renovation period two years ago.

one retail lumber yard.

Capital now has l0 regional distribution centers including Lubbock and Waco, Tx., two reload facilities and a manufacturing division in Northern California, Sonoma Milling Services.

that provides kiln drying, planing and moulding services.

Capita's international trade office in Tacoma. Wa., serves Australia. Europe, the Mediterranean, South Afiica and the Middle East.

NEW

end-matched products are said to be the lirst new cypress products in 50 years,

TpIERE Is No SUBSTITUTE.

The Southeastern Lumber Manufacrurers Associarion represents ()ver 220 independentlv owned lumber manufacturers throughout rhe Southeast. Nlembers of the association produce 4.5 billion board feet of qualiry hardwood and softwood products annuallv. Ca[ (a0a) 361.-1445 to request vour complimentary copy of the 2003 SI-lVtA Membership Directory, or visit us online at w"w"w.slma.org.

"If it hadn't been for the strong housing market, we would be in trouble. We can thank our lucky stars that 30year mortgage rates are 5.5Vo and hope they stay there."

- Bill Nelson, owner, Nelson & Sons Lumber, West Monroe, Itt.

FirstSource Gets Organized

Builders FirstSource, Dallas, Tx., has merged its Northeast Group into its Atlantic Group.

The Northeast Group, which consisted of several New Jersey locations, will now join operations in Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Florida and Georgia as part of the Atlantic Group.

The new New Jersey region of the Atlantic group will be led by Jerry Thompson as market manager. Kevin Higgins, president of the old Northeast Group, has resigned.

"Our Atlantic Group's northeast Maryland location has served customers in New Jersey for many years," said c.e.o. Floyd Sherman. "Placing northeast Maryland and our New Jersey locations in the same division will allow us to seamlessly serve customers throughout the state."

Wood Dust Findings Disputed

The National Toxicology Program recently published a study that labeled wood dust as a "known human carcinogen" in cases involving nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses.

The American Forest & Paper Association questioned the Report on Carcinogens' findings, noting that the majority of studies on which it was based have questionable relevancy to current practices in the U.S. industry.

"lt is our understanding that this finding is based in large part on European studies that measured exposures which occurred before World War II," said SierraPine Ltd.'s Wade Gregory. "We therefore question how relevant this is to our industry today."

In response, the Association of Woodworking & Furnishing Suppliers will commission a wood dust study at Tulane University to come up with data based on current practices.

LoggersArrested For $1 Million Timber Theft

Seven men have been arrested on suspicion of stealing nearly $l million in timber that should have been delivered to Georgia-Pacific mills in northeast Florida, according to state law enforcement officials.

Floridians Roosevelt Jones. 62: Silas Alexander, 53; Benjamin Myles, 27; Hezekiah Myles, 33; Woodrow Myles, 42, and Ishmael Foster, 21, were charged with organized fraud, said officials. Additional arrests are expected.

Authorities said the men operated as a logging crew to cut, skid, load and deliver timber for G-P. The truck drivers reportedly bypassed a tagging security system by not entering loads into record books when leaving the woods with logs and diverting them to another yard, Koon's Timber & Lumber Co., High Springs, Fl. Koon's was administratively dissolved Oct. 4 for not filing a 2002 annual report.

Officials suspect the crew delivered about 970 loads to Koon's, usually between 3:20 and 5 a.m.

Tax forms show Koon's Timber paid over $850,000 to the seven men under arrest, plus an eighth suspect, from 1997 to 2002. Nearly a third of the total went to Woodrow Myles.

Records show the Myles brothers worked with Foster as the crew of Red Myles Logging under the direction of their father, Edward "Red" Myles.

When Red died in January 1998, Woodrow Myles became foreman. Alexander. Jones. Donald and Becknell were drivers for the firm.

Investigators first leamed of the plot in 2000, but "then 9-11came along and people who were working on this were sent to work on other thinss."

Car Plows Into Lumber Firm

Berry Street Lumber Co., Fort Worth. Tx.. became a drive-thru lumberyard recently when a car crashed into the side ofits retail store.

The accident occurred about 3 a.m. Jan.2l and caused extensive damage to the store's hardware department.

The driver told police that he lost control of the vehicle and struck the building. He and a passenger did not

sustain major injuries, and no one was in the building.

Police say alcohol may have been a contributing factor.

BB Bandits Strike Lumberyard

Armed with BB guns, late-night vandals have been shooting out windows and causing thousands of dollars of additional damage to businesses in northwest Arkansas, including Ridout Lumber's store in Rogers.

Ridout employees returned to work Monday morning Jan. 20 to find their doors riddled with BB holes. Cliff Allen called the repairs time-consuming and costly. "You're talking about three doors at $300 to $350 per door," he said.

After collecting evidence at the scene, police said they hoped to make arrests soon.

Truman E. Phifer, 81, formerly with the Southern Forest Products Association, died from arterial sclerosis Jan. 5 in Searcy, Ar.

He joined the association in 1967 and helped develop SFPA's Forest Resource & Environment Proeram. He retired in 1985.

Silas Wright Barnes Jr., 80, former owner and manager of the old Crozet Lumber Co., Crozet, Va., died January 3.

An Army veteran, he was a past Lumber Manufacturers Association of Virginia officer and director.

William C. Houser, 79, retired salesman for Loven Lumber Co., Pineola. N.C.. died Jan. 9.

He was a native of Rutherford County, N.C., and an Army veteran.

Rates: 25 words for $25, additional words 709 each. Phone number counts as one word, address as six. Headline or centered copy, $6 per line.

MARKET DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

We are a specialty chemical manufacturer located in Charlotte, N.C., currently seeking a motivated Market Development Specialist. The ideal candidate will have at least five years experience in sales, marketing and product introduction of wood-based building products to the retail sector with a proven track record of achieving profitable sales growth and market share gain. Aggressive selling and negotiation skills are imperative. Construction Specifier Institute Product Representative Certification is preferred and a four-year related degree or equivalent is desired. Must possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work closely with management in the promotion of technologies and implement marketing strategies regarding wood products and wood-based building materials. We offer an exemplary benefit package including 401k.

EEO-AA-M/F/V/D Employer

Please submit your resume to Box 100, c/o Building Products Digest, 4500 Campus Dr., Suite 480, Newport Beach, Ca. 92660.

FLORIDA OUTSIDE SALES/ BRANCHMANAGER

Outside Sales Representative, soon to move inside as Branch Manager, sought for a specialty distribution house opening a new branch. Core product mix includes Cedar, Redwood, Cypress, Douglas Fir, Southern Pine and Plastic Lumber. Area would be Fort Walton Beach west to New Orleans, based out of Pensacola. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing and successful company. Leadership skills, industry experience, a loyal customer following, and an entrepreneurial spirit are desirable. Reply in confidence to Gail Clark, P.O. Box 17 22. Lakeland. Fl. 33 802.

Marlts+'Lrs*

Oc conrpny wllr to op.n. hn fi olice In yoor clly.

tYc're boldrrg ior n cxporbnccd tradcr who hr a rold cutbrmt b... dd m cntcpr.n rdd eppro*h bwrd lhoh futrrc.

lf yqr n htrrrird in nmuirg rhb ogportrlly, cqrt*l:

Doyd t da

tdlr Fad Prodrtr Go

PtO 8ox 661226

Bhnrhrm, AL 35266

M:2-t4?O t0Gt0Gtt55

Private box or special border, $6 each. Column inch rate: $45 cameraready, $55 ifwe set the type.

Send ad copy to Building Products Digest, 4500 Campus Dr., Ste. 480, Newport Beach, Ca. 92660,Fax949-852-0231, or call (949) 852-1990. Ad must be prepaid unless you have established credit with us. Make checks payable to Cutler Publishing. Deadline for copy: 20th of the month.

To reply to ads with private box numbers, send correspondence to box number shown, c/o Building Products Digest. Names of advertisers using a box number cannot be released.

ULTRA.PORTABLE TRADE SHOW DISPLAY

Travelite trade show display from ExpoSystems. Ideal for 10'x10' booth space. Sharp black backdrop with overhead lighting. Quickly and easily breaks down into self-contained case, weighs just 50 lbs. and features wheels for easy transport. Excellent condition. $995 or best offer. Call Chuck, Building Products Digest, (949) 852-1990.

WE BUY AND SELL PANEL STRIPS

Plywood, OSB, particleboard and MDF by the truckloads. Lumber Source, Phone (800) 874-1953, Fax 888-576-8723, e-mail LumberSource @ worldnet. att.net.

REMANUFACTURING SPECIALIST, center match on 1", 2", 3" and 4" lumber. Other patterns

Matchlng clients with candidates lor win-win solutions ! ! !

1172 Country Club Lane 817-457-9995 Fort Worth, TX76l12 Fax 817 -457 -9998

Gary Morris-President

E-Mail: Gary@GR-Moms.com

Website: www.GR-Moms.com

guide

Aunnr

Custom Lumber Manufacturing Co. ...............(334) 793-1527

Everwood Treatment co. ...............................(800) 226-3444

Great Southern Wood Preservin9 ..................(800) 633-7539

Gulf Lumber Co., Inc. .....................................(334) 457-6872

Gulf States Paper Corp..................................(205) 562-5000

McEwen Lumber Co .......(334\ 432-2322

Mcshan Lumber Co. .....(205)375-6277

Weyerhaeuser Building Materia|s...................(877) 235-6873

Anmrsrs

Anthony Forest Products C0..........................(800) 221 -2326

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

cedar creek wholesale, Inc. .........................(866) 760-5344

Hoover Treated Wood Products.....................(800) 531-5558

Weyerhaeuser Co. ........(800) 643-1515

White Lumber Co., Ray .......(870) 226-6850 1870) 678-2277

Irorlor

Brackett Brothers.................(800) 542-6777 (828) 584-0785

Diamond Hill Plywood C0...............................(800) 737-7135

DixiePly (Fort Lauderdale)..............................(800) 432-21 44

DixiePly (orlando)... ......(800) 432-3794

DixiePly (Tampa)..... ......(800) 282-8581

Envir0Sa|e............... ......(941) 768-5248

Hoover Treatsd Wood Products, Inc..............(904) 258-7818

Lumbermen's Underwriting A1|iance...............(800) 327-0630

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

McE$,en Lumber Co. (Jacksonville) ...............(904) 783-01 70

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

McEwen Lumber Co. (Tampa) .......................(81 3) 248-41 1 1

Precision Architectural Products, Inc..............(888) 966-3777

Southern Pine Inspection Bureau...................(850) 434-261 1

Southern Pine Timber Products.....................(800) 229-7463

Stambone & Associates .................................(863) 646-6445

Universal Building Specia|ties ........................(800) 282-9583

Weyerhaeuser BMD (Jacksonville) ................(877) 235-6873

Weyerhaeuser BMD (Pompano Beach).........(877) 235-6873

Weyerhaeuser Building Materials (Tampa)....(877) 235'6873

llonm Cmorm

A&H Windows......... ......(866) 229-7617

Brackott 8r0s........... ......(800) 542-6777

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

Chemical Specialties, Inc...............................(704) 522-0825

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

Diamond Hill Plywood Co. (Charlotte)............(800], 737-7 134

Diamond Hill Plywood Co. (Greensboro) .......(800) 737-7130

Diamond Hill Plywood Co. (Baleigh)..............(800) 737-7133

DLH Nordisk, Inc. ......,....................................(800) 688-2882

Eastooast Mouldings ...,........,........................(800) 627-3263

Huber Corp., J.M..... ......(704)547-9220

McEwen Lumber Co. (High Point)..................(336) 472-1676

McEwen Lumber Co. (Raleigh) ......................(919) 772-7550

smith Millwork, Inc. .....,........,.........................(336) 249-81 71

Tank Fab Inc. ................(910) 675-8999

universal Forest Products..............................(704) 855-1 600

Vinyl Windows & Doors Corp. ........................(910) 944-2100

Weyerhaeuser BMD (Charlotte).............,.......(877) 235-6873

Weyerhaeuser BMD (Greensboro).................(877) 235-6873

Williams & Sons, Inc., Jerry G..............,.........(919) 934-41 15

Williams Lumber Co. ol North Carolina, lnc. ..(252\ 442-2136

Orulonr

Cedar Creek Wholesale (Oklahoma City) ......(800) 375-6025

Cedar Creek Wholesale, Inc. {Tulsa) .............(800) 299-9870

Weyerhaeuser Building Materia|s...................(877) 235-6873

Som Cmouu

Cox Wood Preserving C0...............................(800) 476-4401

Diamond Hill Plywood Co. (Darlington)..........(800]1 737 -7126

Diamond Hill Plywood Co. (Greenville) ..........(800) 737-7132

Enterprise Computer Systems, 1nc.................(800) 569-6309

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

i,lcEwen Lumbsr Co. (Charleston).................(843) 766-5383

McEwen Lumber Co. (Greenville)..................(864) 277-8865

1lC.................................(478) 454-341 I

TLC Mouldings, Inc. .......................................(866) 653-4852

Universal Forest Products..............................(91 2) 985-8066

Universal Forest Products (Moultrie)..............(229) 985-4009

Universal Forest Products (Union City) .......(77 0) 472-3000

Weyerhaeuser Building Materia|s...................(877) 235-6873

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McEwen Lumber Co .......(502) 297-8321

Weyerhaeuser Building Materia|s...................(877) 235-6873

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Elder Forest Producls..........(800) 256-7197 (318) 625-8141

Elder Lumb€r Co., Roy O. ..............................(800) 844-061 5

Elder Wood Preserving........(800) 467-8018 (318) 964-2196

Landry Lumber Sales, Richard.......................(318) 442-0453

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

Southern Pine Counci1....................................(504) 443-4464

W€yerhaeuser Co. ........(318) 255-6258

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Beautiful Home Supp|y...................................(800) 761 -9663

swan secure Products ..(800) 966-2801

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Columbus 1umber ...............(800) 654-6743 (601) &33-1990

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

Hood Industries....... ......(601) 735-5071

Shuqualak Lumber C0....................................(601 ) 793-4528

Southern Lumber Co. ..........(800) 748-8919 (601) 362-0019

Weyerhaeuser Building Materia|s...................(877) 235-6873

EAX to 949-852-0231

or call (949) 852-1990 or mail to Building Producrs Digest, 4500 Campus Dr., Suite 480, Newport Beach, Ca.92660-18i2.

Building Products Digest - February 2003

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

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

American Forest & Paper Association t1201............... ..............27

Arauco Wood Products [109].................19

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

Beautiful Home Supply [137] ...................4

Benjamin Obdyke I1071..........................17

Bowie Sims Prange t1301........................42

Capital Lumber Co. [105].........................7

Chemical Specialties, Inc. [106] .............15

Chesapeake Hardwoods [132]....Cover IV

Comercial Corza S.A. t1031......................3

Computer Associates Inc. [128]..............39

CorrectDeck t1021.........................Cover II

Cox Wood Preserving If 04]......................5

Crumpler Plastic Pipe, Inc. [136]...........36

Custom Lumber Manufacturing [135]..36

Elder Forest Products t1331 ...................30

Epoch [123] -......--..........34

FiberTech Polymers tf081 ......................18

GRK Canada Ltd. [119] .........................26

Hoover Treated Wood Products [125] ..37

International Paper Corp.-Engineered Wood Division tl lEl ............25

Krauter Storage Systems U24l .............3f

Want to Subscribe? Check the appropriate boxes to begin receiving your monthly issues. tr 1 Year ($18) tl 2 Years ($29) tr 3 Years (939) A For Qualified Southern Retailers and Wholesalers (Free) tr Bill Me tr My Check Is Enclosed

News or Comments? We welcome your comments on articles, the magazine, or news of your company such as promotions, new hires, expansions or acquisitionS (z&is is afree service).

Louisiana-Pacific Corp.-TechShield t1311............... ..cover III

Lumbermen's Association of Texas Ir2rl ............28

Maze Nails [34]

Montrose Reload t1 121............... .............22

Nexwood Industries [126] .......................38

Permalatt Products, Inc. [129] ...............41

Siskiyou Forest Products [117] ..............24

Snider Industries [111] ...........................21

Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association t1271.,..............................38

Sunbelt Material Handling [110] ...........20

SureDrive U.S.A. [1 l6]... .........................24

Swan Secure Products 11131.............22, 36

Universal Building Specialties U151 ......23

Williams & Son, Jerry G. Uf41..............23

Work Safe Specialty Products ll22)......29

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