Building Products Digest - March 1989

vou'rcnotsatisfied,

'At\feyerhaeuser, *" proXise we will not cut corners. Not on qualiry Not on value. Not on shipments. Not on service. If you have a problem with anything we do, talk to us about it.\fe'll do our level best to solve the problem. You have my word on it."

YourFirstChoice'. A weyerhaeuser

Servinq the lumber:Z7& home center - markets in 13 Southern states

If

we'rcnotsatisfiedl' , ,/t I 4"W

Coming in April

PRESS SPE vooD IAL ISSUE

(Orrr always informative annual on pressurc treatcd wood will again present special features on how manufacturers help dealers sell, a proftlc story on a pressure treater, updates on news affecting the industry plus helpful tips for you on marketing and selling profttable pressure treated products.

ADVERTISERS: Be certain your message is part of this important industry issue. Call or unite today. The deadline for space resetrrations is

March 17, 19E9. For information or space resewations, just unite the address below or call (7141852-r99O.

REDWOOD SPECIAT ISSUE

National Deck Contest Open To Redwood Dealers

ABCs of Redwood Product Knowledge Made Easier

Redwood Sales Are Like Gardening With No End

Recommending Proper Finishes Makes Sales Sense

Redwood Executive Answers Your Hard Questions

Texas Lumber Co. Sets Up Elite Display Center

Structural Redwood Grades Can Fill Many Needs

Technology Produces Efficient Redwood Products

Weyerhaeuser Introduces D-l-Y Design Center

Canadian Company Launches New Market Effort

Redwood Shows lts Best Side In Southern Home

Servlng l3 Southern slales

Publlrhor David Cutler

Edltor Juanita Lovret

Arrlrtrnt Edltor David Koenig

Contllbutlnt Edltors

Dwitht Curran r Cagc McKinncy

Art Dlrectol Msrtha Emery

Strll Artlst Mary Coopcr

Clrculrtlon Lynnctte A. Perkins

Building Products Digest is published monthly at 4500 Campus Dr., Suitc 480, Newport Beach, Ca. 92660, phone (714) 852-1990, by Cutlcr Publishing. lnc.

ADVERTISING OFFICES

Advertising rates upon request. From all states east of the Rocky Mountains: Contsct Jean Waggoner Cogerty, national sales manager. l'rom Arizona, Nevada and California: Contact David Cutler. Both may be reached at (714) 852-1990 or by writing 4500 Campus Dr., Suite 480, Newport Beach, Ca. 92660.

l"rom Washington State, Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, Utah, Colorado, Northern California and Canada: Contact Carole Hofm at (205) 774-3113 or 21819 77th Place West. Edmonds. wa. 98020.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Change of Addrcss-Send subscription orden and address changes o Circulation Dept., Building Producs Digest.4500 Campus Dr., suite 480, Newpon Beach, Ca. 9660. Include address label from recent issue ifpossible, plus new address and zip code.

Subscrlption Rates: U.S.: $25-one year; $41+wo years; $55+hree years; Foreign: one year payable in advance in U.S. funds- Canada or Mexico: air-$42; surface-$37; South America: air-$60; surface-$391 Asia: air-$70; surface-$39; Europe: air-$90; surface-$39. Single copies $3; back copies $4.50 plus shipping & handling.

BUILDING PRODUCTS DIGEST is an independe ntlyowlted publication fur the reni l, v"lnlesale and distibution lewb of the lunber and home center mart<zts in 13 hwhetn smrcs.

1989, Cutler Publishing, Inc. Cover and entire contents are fully protected and must not be reprbduced in any manner without written permission. All Rights Reserved. Building Products Digest assumes no liability for materials furnished to it.

Goastal Upgrades Henry Plant

A major renovation resulting in a 500/o increase in capacity and a 400/o reduction in cycle time has been completed at the Coastal Lumber Co. treating plant in Henry, Tn.

The facility, a Wolman licensee, processes approximately l2 million board feet of southern yellow pine each year. Coastal acquired the Henry plant from Phoenix Lumber Co. last spring.

The improvements were part of a more than half million dollar capital improvement expenditure at the Henry yard. Expansion of the air dry shed to 12,000 sq. ft., building a 9,000 sq. ft. lumber warehouse and loading dock, lengthening the shipping chain and adding new equipment in the log yard sawmill and drying yard have been completed in phase one ofthe refurbishing.

Horne Depot: Gompany of Year

standing performance and management ability. Home Depot's earnings nearly tripled in the year ended Jan., 1987, and doubled in the year ended Jan., 1988. For the nine months ended Oct. 31, 1988, Home Depot's net income rose 52% to $57.9 million on a 370/o gain in sales to $1.5 billion.

Knoxville Handy Dan To Close

Handy Dan on Clinton Highway in Knoxville, Tn., will be closed April I by Channel Home Centers Inc., its parent company.

"The store has not been a profitable market for us," Ann Plaut, spokesperson at the Wippany, N.J., headquarters, said. She explained distribution and advertising costs were higher because it was the only Handy Dan in the area.

Home Depot Inc. has been Texas Dealer Builds New Store named Southeastern Company of Higginbotham-Bartlett is building the Year by Jenk's Southeastern a new building materials center on a Business Letter. three acre site in Stamford. Tx.. with

The award is based upon out- a July I opening scheduled.

Construction will include a 12,000 sq. ft. metal building with 6,000 sq. ft. for a retail store and 6,000 sq. ft. for warehouse. Another metal building of 15,552 sq. ft. will have inside storage and covered outside storage for lumber bins, bundled lumber and building materials. This structure will be a drive-through warehouse capable of unloading l8-wheelers inside.

Phil West has been named manager. He comes to the Stamford location from Lubbock Sash and Door, a wholesale division of HigginbothamBartlett.

IRS Threat On Collections

The latest collection technique advised in the home center and lumber industry uses the IRS as the bogeyman.

The idea is that before you write offa debt, you call the debtor and tell him you are going to file a 1099 report with the IRS claiming his account as a tax deductible bad debt for you and income for him. Reportedly, because no one wants the IRS involved, past due customers usually settle up promptly.

The downward path of housing

? HIS MONTH the National Association of I Home Builders begins a major Congressional lobbying effort seeking government assistance for housing via direct subsidies and financial arrangements to make purchasing a home easier. Given NAHB's track record with the Congress some success is likely. What happens will also have a direct impact upon those of you who supply the nation's home builders.

It is distressing indeed to trace the downward path of housing since | 978 when starts were just over two million. Noting in the chart below that this year's estimate is 1.3 million starts, it seems obvious that America's housing short fall is no illusion.

The NAHI] rallying cry this year is "Where will our children live?" lt is a good question. Of the nearly 59 million Americans who are in, or will be entering, their prime home buying ages during the next four years, fewer than half can expect to become home owners. lt is exactly this imbalance that NAHB seeks to redress through political action and the ingenuity of its members in the marketplace.

Builders are often important customers for the retailers. wholesalers and distributors who read this magazine. lt makes sense that we all monitor these developments for their likely impact upon business.

LAT Convention Schedule Set

Joe Samulin, retail and wholesale home center industry veteran, will set the pace for the "Challenge of Change" theme at the Lumbermen's Association of Texas convention next month.

state legislature report, new money saving services and a 1990 convention update. AII business sessions will be in held the Mission Room of the Convention Center.

More than 250 vendors will participate in the tradeshow. In addition to two full days of exhibitions, the convention offers the opportunity to meet the vendors at scheduled receptions, breakfasts and lunches.

bert Eberhard, Carlos Gonzales Jr., Larry Grothues, Phil Grothues, Brazos Guido and Marisa Guido, 1989 convention committee, have planned a balanced schedule of educational, business and social activities.

Opening speaker for the April 6-8 meeting in San Antonio, he will include tips on visual merchandising, variable pricing, long range planning and selection for loss leader advertising in his "Growth In A No Growth City" presentation opening day.

All speakers will appear as part of the Speaker ShowCase Plus format with Michael Skinner, Ph.D, briefing listeners on business improvement through employees in "Superior Companies/Superior People." Art Zorka will use his talents as a magician to deliver "The Magic of Creating' Opportunity" message.

Other Speaker Showcases will feature insurance benefits, financial planning, retirement strategies, a

A. George Natsis IIl, president; Don Smith Sr., first vice president, Danny Brosius, Jeff Chapman, Her-

NAWLA's Annual Meetirg

North American Wholesale Lumber Association's annual meeting, April l6-19 at the Sheraton El Conquistador Resort, Tucson, Az., will be under the direction of convention coordinator and second vice president Barney Blondal.

Approximately 700 delegates will attend. Dr. John Crispo, professor of political economy, University of Toronto, will open the convention with comments on "Free Trade and Beyond."

Answers to the challenges brought by environmentalists will be

The president's reception, banquet and casino party will be held at the Hilton Palacio del Rio Saturday night. Thursday's opening reception will be in the River Court at the convention center. A golf tournament at Sonterra and special activities for women will round out the meeting.

provided by Daniel Goldy in "Call to Arms." Dr. Peter G. Hanson will focus on management of stress during the second general session.

A management seminar by Dr. Herbert Greenburg, co-chairman of Caliper Management Inc., will deal with hiring the right people. Louis R. Marchese, legal counsel to NAWLA, will interpret new laws.

The popular contact session, a networking program with table top displays by NAWLA mill, wholesaler-processors and service supply members, will have over 100 exhibitors.

Select Knotty: A Tlght Knot Redwood Sldlng lrom Slmpson

With Simpson "Tight Knot" Select Knotty Siding, natural redwood beauty that meets the eye is matched by equally remarkable natural properties :

I Exceptional dimensiond stability; resistance to warping, twisting, and checking.

I Impresive insulation against both heat and cold.

I Unequaled ability to take and hold a nriety of finish options.

Simpson "Tight Knot" Select lfuotty Siding is available seasoned and saw textured in V-Joint Tongue and Groove, Shiplap, and bold lVr'Tlick Butt Bevd Siding patterns, offering a wide range of applications.

The competitive edge is all yours, naturally.

For immediate information on availability and the name of your nearest source of supply call:

Ibll-Frre Sdect KnoW Hot line, 1-t00-637-7077. Simpson Timber Company, Redwood Dvision, P.O. Box 1169, Arcata, CA 95521-1169

Distributors:

NORTHEAST

Coastal Specialty Forest Products

Hookset, N.H.

N.H. onlv 800-42+4036

N.E. other 800-932-9663

Hudson Building Supply Company

Ashley, Pa./71 7-829-57 31

SOUTHEAST

Epperson Lumber Sales

Statesville. N.C. | 7 O+87 3-4321

Wholesale Wood Products

Dothan, Al. /205-793-6028

LAKE STATES

Badger Wholesale Lumber, lnc.

Cottage Grove, Wi. / 608€39-4565

Ghicago Suburban Lumber Sales

Forest Park, ll. I 31 2-7 7 1 -81 81

Hager Distribution

Grand Rapids. Mi.| 616-247 -79U

Hudson Building Supply Company

Elkhart, In./219-262-3666

North Santiam Lumber Go. of Ohio

Colu mbus. Oh. I 61 4-27 2-81 1 1

MIDWEST

Canton Redwood Sales

Minneapolis, Mn. I 61 2-425-1 4@

Weekes Forest Products, lnc.

Minneapolis, Mn./61 2-721-8585

Mn. Watts 800-352-2766

Regional Watts 80G32&2890

MOUNTAIN

Click & Geddes Lumber Company

Denver. Co./303-53+01 95

Kaibab lndustries

Englewood, Co./303-761-9882

Reid & Wright Lumber

Broomfield, Co. /303-46O-9663

Weyerhaeuser Co.

salt Lake citv, Ut./801-972-5525

SOUTHWEST

Capital Lumber Company

Phoenix, Az. 602-269 -6225

Peralta. N.M. 505-877 -7222

Lubbock, Tx. 806-747-31 91

LeeRoy Jordan Lumber Company

Dallas, Tx. 21 4-357 -7317

Austin, Tx. 51 2-385-5334

Slaughter Bros.

Dallas, Tx. /21 4-341-9000

Memphis, Tn./901-365€50O

Redwood deck contest takes a new turn

FfEDWOOD deck contests have FI u".n t'avorite dealer promotions for a long time. But now something new has been added.

Popular Science and the California Redwood Association are conducting the second Problem Solving Deck Contest with a first prize of $1000. To qualify, a deck must solve a problem. Decks built since July 1988 are eligible. Entry deadline is August 1989.

First public announcement of the contest will appear in the April 1989 issue of Popular Science along with a 4-page color-illustrated story on a redwood deck that overcomes the challenge of a hilly site. CRA will make it possible for retailers and wholesalers to tie into the contest with a countertop display including 500 contest entry forms.

The display will allow customers to enter any problem solving deck built since last summer. It also offers an excellent opportunity for a dealer to conduct his own deck contest during the spring and early summer. The winners of the store contest can

then be entered into the national competition.

In addition to the top prize of $1 000, the Popular SciencelCR A contest will award two $500 second prizes and two $300 third prizes. The five winning decks will be photographed and featured in a spring 1990 issue of Popular Science.

The counter top display and suggestions for using the contest to conduct tie-in deck promotions are available from Christopher Grover at the California Redwood Association (see p. 40 for address and telephone number).

Story at a Glance

How dealers can tie in with a new deck building contest to be featured in Popular Science magazine . . counter top displays and suggestions for merchandising the contest are available.

All you need to know about REITWOOIT

A lR l)R lUl) - dried by exposure to air in a yard or shed without artificial heat.

ANNUAI-- (;ROWTIl RIN(; - clearly defined separations marking the wood added to a tree during the growth year.

AR('lllTtr('TtiRAL (;RAI)t1Sclear all heart. clear and l) grade redwood, kiln dried for exterior and interior architectural uses.

ll (;RAl)tr - quality redwood grade containing sapwood. limited knots and other charcteristics not permitted in clear all heart and clear, available kiln dried or unseasoned, surfaced or saw textured.

BOWa deviation flatwise from a straight line drawn from end to end of a piece of lumber.

IIURLa distortion of grain, usually caused by abnormal growth due to injury of the tree.

CHECKS - a separation of the wood normally occurring across or through the annual growth rings, usually as a result of seasoning.

CLEARredwood grade containing heartwood and sapwood in varying amounts, normally kiln dried, but available unseasoned, some imperfections permitted, surfaced or saw textured.

CLEAR ALL HEARTfinest architectural heartwood grade of redwood, normally kiln dried, but available unseasoned, well manufactured, free of defects one face (reverse may have slight imperfections), surfaced or saw textured.

CONSTRUCTION COMMONredwood grade with same general characteristics as construction heart, sapwood in varying amounts, unseasoned or seasoned, surfaced, rough or saw textured.

CONSTRUCTION HEARTa redwood heartwood grade with knots of varying sizes, other slight imperfections, usually unseasoned, but available seasoned, surfaced or rough.

CROOKa deviation edgewise from end to end of a board.

CUPa curve in a board across the grain or width from a straight line drawn edge to edge.

DIAGONAL GRAINa deviation in the slope of grain caused by sawing at an angle with the bark of a tree or caused by spiral grain in log.

l;lN(;HR JOINTt:l) - clear all heart and clear redwood boards up to 24 ft. made from kiln dried pieces fingerjointed and end glued.

ItLn T (;RAIN - annualrings form an angle of less than 45" with the surface of the piece (also called slash grain).

l;Rl:tr Ol: lll:ART ('ENTI:RS (ljOll(')without pith (side cut), sawn to eliminate pith.

(;ARI)t1N (;RAl)trs - construction heart. construction common, merchantable heart and merchantable redwood, usually not kiln dried.

(;RAl)tr - quality designation for manufactured wood or logs.

(;RAIN - direction, size, arrangement, appearance or quality of fibers in wood or lumber (See flat grain, vertical grain).

(;RIrt.,N - freshly sawed or unseasoned wood.

IIITARTWOOI)inner core of the tree trunk from the pith to the sapwood. Redwood heartwood is light cherry to deep red mahogany color, contrasting with the sapwood. The heartwood cells no longer participate in the life process of the tree.

HOLESextend partially or entirely through a piece, may be free from cause, designated surface pits if they extend only partially through the piece.

KILN I)Rltrl)dried in a kiln with the use of artificial heat.

KNOTSa portion of a branch or limb that has become incorporated in a piece of lumber, classified as to form, size, quality and occurrence.

LOOSENED GRAINa grain separation or loosening between springwood and summerwood in flat grain lumDer.

MANUFACTURING IMPERFHCTIONSdefects or blemishes produced in manufacturing.

MERCHANTABLE - a redwood grade that allows slightly larger knots than construction grades, holes limited to size of knots, checks, splits, manufacturing flaws, sapwood in varying amounts, available unseasoned, surfaced or rough.

MERCHANTABLE HEARTredwood heartwood grade, slightly larger knots than construction grades, holes limited to size of knots, some checks, splits and manufacturing flaws, unseasoned, surfaced or rough.

MIXED GRAINlumber that may be either or both vertical and flat grain.

OLD GROWTHtimber in or from a mature, naturally established forest.

PITCHresins that accumulate in wood cells, classified as light, medium, heavy. Redwood lumber is usually free of pitch.

RAISED GRAINan uneveness between springwood and summerwood on the surface of dressed lumber.

ROUGH LUMBERlumber not dressed, but sawed, edged and trimmed.

Story at a Glance

Glossary of redwood terms and definitions . . . grade terminology a syllabus for educating employees.

RUSTIC SIDINGredwood with knots and sapwood, seasoned, in thick-butt bevel, channel, tongue and groove and board and batten patterns, usually saw textured.

SAPWOOD - layers of growth between bark and heartwood, contain sap. In redwood, the layers of cream colored wood with less decay and insect resistance than heartwood.

SAW TEXTUREDa face that has been produced by resawing rough or dressed lumber to yield a rough textured appearance.

SEASONING - removing moisture from wood to improve its serviceability.

SELECTan economical tight knotted heartwood grade with some sapwood, imperfections on the back side, usually unseasoned, surfaced or rough.

SELECT HEARTdurable tight knotted heartwood resistant to insects and decay with no splits or shake, usually unseasoned, surfaced or rough.

SHAKEa lengthwise separation of the wood usually between or through the rings of annual growth.

SPLITSa separation of the wood due to the tearing apart of the wood cells.

SPRINGWOOD portion of annual growth ring formed during early part of the growing season.

SUMMERWOOD - portion of annual growth ring formed after springwood formation has ceased.

TEXTUREoften used interchangeably with grain, in redwood designates smooth surfaced, saw textured or rough board.

WANEbark or lack of wood from any cause, except eased edges, on the edge or corner ofa piece of lumber.

WARP - any variation from true or plane surface including bow, crook, cup and twist.

YOUNG CROWTHtimber in or from a forest less than 100 years old.

Redwood sales never stop

EiEDWOOD dealers must reJl member that sales opportunities don't stop when the customer Pulls away with a load of redwood deck lumber.

By providing helpful service and valuable information, merchants can turn one time buyers into steady, repeat customers. With over a million decks being built each year, there are many extended sales opportunities.

First there is the profitable restoration and resurfacing of previously built decks. When a homeowner is

S,tory at a Glane

Ways to keep redwood customers coming back . solutions to common deck maintenance problems . . kits and plans used for upgrading decks.

dissatisfied with the performance of a deck, he will often want to upgrade to a superior species. Redwood can frequently be sold as the upgrade.

Other outdoor living upgrade options offering sales opportunity include the addition of shade structures, benches, planters, built-in cabinets and other amenities. Lumber merchants can help customers and increase sales by offering kits or plans for these projects.

Maintenance of the finish coating demands regular attention and provides an opportunity for repeat sales. Counter people need to keeP uP to date on the techniques for applying and removing coatings, cleaning wood surfaces and restoring redwood's natural color.

In addition to being familiar with the products sold in the store for these jobs, they should know the basics of deck maintenance and stain removal. Here are some of the com-

mon problems cuslomers have with suggested solutions:

Dirt and dust have built up to the point where rinsing with a garden hose will not remove them.

Scrubbing with a mild detergent will remove dirt and stubborn grime.

Mildew in areas of shade and moisture, appearing as dark spots or gray fan shaped spots.

Mild cases of mildew can be cleaned with a mild cleanser or detergent. Surfaces should be rinsed with bleach to kill the remaining spores, More serious cases of mildew may require scrubbing with a stiff bristle brush, using a solution of one cup oftrisodium phosphate, one cup of household bleach and one gallon of warm water. Surfaces should be rinsed thoroughly. (lt is important to tell customers never to mix bleach with detergents containing ammonia - poisonous fumes will develop). Once mildew stains are removed, a finish that contains a mildewcide should be applied.

Common and unsightly nail stains resulting from using ferrous metal nails or nails that were not properly galvanized.

The cleaning process is similar to the removal of mildew stains. To help prevent recurrence of the stains, suggest that customers countersink the nails and swab the nail holes with a water repellent. After this is dry, nail holes should be filled with a non-oily wood filler.

When moisture migrates to the wood surface and evaporates, extractive residue is left on the surface.

Fresh extractive stains can be removed by washing with detergent and water. More stubborn stains can be removed by using one cup of trisodium phosphate and one cup of household bleach mixed with a gallon of warm water.

Although there are many products specifically designed for cleaning decks and restoring the color of redwood, one method uses generic chemicals which you probably have in the paint department. After the wood is scrubbed with a bristle brush and a solution of one cup trisodium phosphate per gallon of warm water, it is rinsed with clear water. This can be repeated. The final application is a solution of four ounces of oxalic acid crystals dissolved in one gallon of warm water. After the wood dries, it is rinsed with clear water. More than one application may be necessary.

nE0W000 deck sales multiply $,hen a dealer specializes in kits and plans lor upgrades such as benches and olanters. Maintenance oroducts also offer additional sales.

Tips on redwood exterior finishes

EEDWOOD has a reputation for flperforming well outdoors without a protective finish, but any wood looks better and lasts longer maintained regularly with a protective coating.

Redwood takes and holds finishes better than other woods. Merchants can establish themselves as redwood specialists by providing customers with up to date information on the proper finishes and application techniques.

Clear water repellents slow the natural weathering of redwood, letting the color soften to a buckskin tan and permitting grain textures to show through. For best results, water repellents should be applied with a brush, letting the wood absorb as much finish as possible without leaving a residue. Because the water repellency usually comes from a waxy substance, such as paraflin, refinishing is required at relatively short intervals (18-24 months).

Story at a Glance

Guide to best finishes for red- wood . product and applF cation tips to use in advising customers . . . waystoinsure customer satisfaction.

Bleaching oils accelerate redwood's natural reaction to sun and moisture, turning driftwood gray. Bleaches should be applied with a brush or roller according to manufacturer's directions. Bleaches are aided by sunlight and moisture, so it helps to dampen surfaces with a fine

spray from a garden hose before applying. The gray color is virtually permanent; however the protection provided by the finish only lasts about two years.

Semitransparent stains offer more choices in hue and color saturation. When used on decks and walking surfaces, stains should be specifically formulated for decks, otherwise heavy traflic may wear trails through the coating surface. Semitransparent stains should be applied with a brush. The roller is the second best method. Care should be taken to avoid lap marks which can be pronounced. Semitransparent stains will last three to five years depending on the use and ciimate. They are one of the more durable options.

Opaque stains are heavily pigmented, often giving the appearance of paint and hiding the wood grain. Because they are breathing finishes, they are easier to apply and maintain. Stains should be applied with a brush according to manufacturer's directions. Two coats may be necessary for new wood. Like semitransparent stains, opaque stains will last between three and five years.

Paints are durable and attractive, but require more careful preparation than stains. Paints should only be applied to certified kiln dried redwood. One oil or alkyd resin primecoat and two finish coats are recommended for new wood. Paint can be refinished with one coat after most of the old coat has worn away. Because paint films that are too thick tend to crack and peel, it is best to not repaint too frequently. If it is necessary to remove paint by sanding, heads of galvanized nails must be countersunk to prevent nail stains. Quality paint applied properly can last five to ten years.

PAlllT, clear water reDellents and semitransparent stains all work well with redwood. depending upon the effect desired.

Redwood question & answer session

Q: How will the CRA resp-ond to the guarantees, et cetera, of Pressure treated wood?

A: Response in the sense I think you mean may not be called for. Pressure treated wood and the garden grades of redwood are two very different products, in spite of the fact that there are areas where they compete with each other. Pressure-treKeith Lanninc ;i;d-i;mbei s pri- [Erf[ !.uuut5 ated lumDgrs pn_ mary characteristic is durability. lt's used for permanent wood founda' tions, docks and pilings - areas where a guarantee is necessary. Redwood's primary characteristic is its quality appearance. lt looks good when it's new and it keeps its quality appearance because it is less likely to check, twist and warp than other species.

A secondary quality is the durability it possesses by virtue of the natural extractives present in the heartwood. These decay resistant chemicals are provided by nature. It would be diflicult to guarantee a specified level of decay resistance, but redwood does provide more decay resistance than other untreated woods and it doesn't require special handling or disposal practices.

Q: Have recent price increases made redwood less competitive with cedar and pressure treated wood?

A: The price of redwood products reflects the demand. Prices on products such as construction heart and construction common grades are staying quite strong as a result of the extremely healthy deck and outdoor

living markets. There are other areas where redwood represents an in' credible value when compared grade for grade with the competition. I'm thinking of B grade redwood and some of the knotty redwood sidings that are available. Redwood definitely offers more for the dollar than cedar.

cluding product research, market development and the promotion of redwood to the end users.

Q: ls there any truth to the rumors that there is a redwood shortage?

A: No. not in the sense that the redwood supply is declining. The supply of redwood has increased steadily for over five years. If there is any sense of the shortage, it is because there is a strong end-user demand for redwood products. The supply will remain consistent at about l.l or 1.2 billion board feet per year.

Story at a Glance

California Redwood Association executive Keith Lanning answers some tough questions: why you can't compare redwood and pressure treated wood .. price increases... redwood shortages.

Q: How will the reorganization of the CRA help the retailer?

A: I think the most immediate advantage comes from the unity of the manufacturers. Sure, they're competing with each other on a daily basis, but they are getting together on some of the larger questions, in-

There's a story on the quality control side of the business as well. The Redwood Inspection Service is now responsible for grading more than 900/o of the redwood lumber manufactured. Founded in 1923, the RIS is the oflicial rules writing agency for redwood and has one ofthe best rePutations in the business. This will translate into better quality and more consistent grading which should be greatly appreciated by the retailer.

Q: Will any special point of purchase displays be developed?

A: Yes. We are creating a counter top display to promote the Popular SciencelCRA deck contest. This will provide basic information about the contest and entry forms. Using this display, merchants can tie-in and hold parallel events, such as their own deck gontests or building and design clinics. There's a great opportunity here.

Q: Will the CRA develop seminars or clinics to be given in conjunction with dealers?

A: From time to time, we conduct seminars and educational programs. We've worked with lumber dealers' associations in different parts of the country. These programs are generally geared toward professionalsarchitects, builders, lumber buyers or retail salesmen. Of course, we hope that these people will then transmit their knowledge to their clients and customers.

FALCASIEU Lumber Co., Au\Jstin. Tx.. has devised a roundabout way of increasing sales. The 106-year-old company recently opened a new location filled with products that aren't for sale.

The 3,300 sq. ft. Calcasieu Selection Center is a showroom extenison of the firm's local headquarters, showcasing fairly large vignettes and various "hands-on" displays of both standard and hard-to-find building products and hardware,

"The Selection Center is a unique showroom designed to help builders, architects, designers and homeowners select decorative hardware, millwork and exterior products in an environment that is idea-conducive," says Calcasieu president T.N. "Nick" Morris Jr.

"But it's not a retail facility," adds Richard Riley, vice president of marketing. "It's an idea center to

Story at a Glance

Calcasieu Selection Center: a building prcducts showroom for buiHers, architects and remodelenr everything is odercd fyorr nea6y D.C. since otrtlet has no inventory.

Texas idea center sells to the imagination

provide individual assistance away from the retail home center atmosphere."

There is no inventory, although the center is linked by computer to Calcasieu headquarters and can provide instant inventory and price information.

Products featured in actual room settings or operable displays include aluminum and greenhouse windows, skylights, siding, locksets, bath accessories, bar sinks, floor safes, door knockers, brass accessories, entry and interior doors, stair components, columns, wood windows, ventilating roof windows, custom architectural millwork, and 150 moulding profiles and combinations,

Four full-time building product specialists are on duty to assist in coordinating selections customized for

the individual needs of each project. And the Selection Center also provides a planning area and a conference room which builders, architects and homeowners can use to discuss plans and make decisions. The conference area also serves as a meeting room or media room stocked with projection equipment and product presentations. Builders can even bring in their own tray of projection slides to present to their customers or sales force.

"An incredible amount of thought has gone into the design of the Selection Center to make it both functional and creative," says Jody Drake McRee, manager of the center.

Afterall, stirring the imagination is as much a part of a sale as shaking the pocketbook.

LAY0UI of Calcasieu Selection Center includes: lll Entrance t0 transom. door and window displays. l2l Rail and stair systems.

l3l Bar of laucet sets. lll Selection of locksets and planning area. l5l Moulding area with wall of profiles.

Bul|d,lnq -FrodIucts

LNIIE\U^YS lnil-Ri

Low't,'s will open a new 65,000 sq. li. store near Mooresville, N.C., this spring. the Warner Robins. (1a.. Lou'e's will relocate to a recently acquired 60,000 sq. fi. building being converted to "rack'n roll" merchandising. . . plans to build a I'owe's in llrevard, N.(1.. have been delayed due to site problems

l_{lEl-Fs

I)on and Tracy (lole have purchased Gogt' Luntber end ltaxl' wure, Inc., (iage. Ok., liom l.-arl Randolph who has retired . (hark flaftluund Lumber ('o., (llarksville, Ar., is now (it,ttcrel .Stora c8 Lwnbcr (ir. with l)<ln Sims as new owner . .

N.C., laminating and renranulacturing plant to ('olumbia l'orcsl Protlucts, Portland, Or., Ron Steinbrink, general mgr., and l-arry l]randon, sales mgr.

Hood lnduslrics has acquired the lntcrnntionol Pupt'r ntill in Coushatta. La.. with Norm White, Waynesboro, Ms., handling sales for mills in both locations

U4 l-utnber plans to open 200 additional stores in the next l0 years; regional buying olTices in Jacksonville, Irl., and Pineville, N.C., have been closed in a purchasing dept. reorganization .

I)avis Lunhar & .Supply is new in (ilenwood, Ar., Wayne l)avis, owner. and Johnny Lee, mgr. . l'|/ynne Lumbcr Co.. Wynne, Ar., has closed its downtown store . Henson Lumher (b., Wynne, Ar., has been acquired by Jerry Caldwell, who will move Caldwell Lumhar ( o. to thatlocation...

Potkilch Corp., Warren, Ar.. has added 200,000 ft. of additional kiln capacity, mostly for hardwood, total capacity is now 260,000 ft.: they anticipate adding a planer later this Year

A Handy l)an in Knoxville. Tn., will be closed April I by Channel Hrnne C)enters lrlr'. (see p. 5 for story); a (iarland, Tx., unit closed earlier .

I{igginbothom-Bartlett has set July I as opening day for a facility being built on 3 acres in Stamford, Tx. (see p. 5 for story)

Iiill's Home C'enter is the new name for Woods Lwnber C'o., Pawhuska. Ok., acquired by Bill Corsaut, yard mgr., after it closed

Tlrc Paty &r. Piney F'lats, Tn., has established an Aerobic Clhallenge wellness program for employees. . Sc'o/l1".e, Winter llaven, ltl., received a silver award from the Amerit'on Lung Association o/' Florida for its antismoking policies Home DePot Inc. has been named Southeastern Company of the Year (see p. 5 for story) . .

Phoenix Lunber Cb., lJenry, Tn., has been acquired by Coastal Lumber Gr. (see p. 5 for story) . .

GAF lJuilding Marerial (-orP. has installed a new production line at its Savannah, (ia., plant . . . Peachtret' Doors and Windows, Norcross. Ga., has opened a western mfg. depot in North Las Vegas.Nv....

Home Depot. Atlanta. Ga'. opened its first northeast store in East Hanover, N.J., with Plans to open as many as eight this Year in N.Y.. N.J. and Ct. and from 50 to 75 northeast units in the next several years. Hecltingeropened its eighth store in the Philadelphia, Pa., metroPolitan area with a ninth scheduled to oPen later this spring

Three .States \upply Co., Memphis, Tn., plans to relocate Little Rock, Ar., offices to the former site of .Scott Sash and Door Co.. .. Ervnt', lnt'.. Peachtree City, Ga., has a new office in the Richmond, Va., arsa, Roy Griffin in charge . Weyerhaeuser Co. has sold its Thomasville,

Rivar Cit), Moulding, an operation owned by the Walter M' Fields Lumbcr Co.. Memphis, Tn., is the flrst mfr. to use the Hunlwood lnstitutt"s new promotional symbol ... WoodTek Produt'ls bY' Texlone, /nr'., Charleston, S.C'.. has acquired 4lmodttr, lnc., Azusa., Ca., a cabinet door mfr. . . . Bel. wood U.5,4, Inc., an ownerlmanagement group, has Purchased t[e assets of Belwood' Irtt'.. Ackerman, Ms....

Housing st{trts for Jan. (latest figs.) were up 8.001, to an annual rate of 1.69 million units . , single family starts were up 7.1%l multi-units up 10.1oln , building permits dropped 2.7010.

Palco Rustic Redruood Vertical Sidings

r Attractive

The combination of pattern, attractive grain, knot characteristics and color give these Palco Rustic redwood sidings a genuine, rugged appearance.

r Stable

Palco Rustic Sidings are carefully airseasoned to reduce shrinking and warping. Knots hold better and the wood stays straighter and flatter than unseasoned wood sidinos.

r Economical

The wood is lightweight, easy to handle and costs less than many other siding materials. Random lengths of

6'to 20'go up fast, save on labor costs, reduce trim waste, and limit the numberof toints.

r Installs Easily

Each pattern is self-aligning, making it easy to apply. Shiplap patterns avoid unsig htly horizontal seams created by other exterior panel products.

r Finishes Well

The saw-textured face holds paints and stains up to twice as long as smooth surfaces. Penetrating oilbase stains work especially well on Rustic redwood sidings and provide a durable, handsome exterior.

r Other Advantages

Man ufactu red f rom authentic California redwood, these Rustic sidings offer a relatively low flame spread rating compared to other wood sidings. These sidings also provide better insulating properties than brick, stucco, concrete block, concrete or aluminum.

Palco Rustic Redwood Channel Shiplap Siding

This pattern provides a deep channel that casts a distinguishable shadow line. Designed strictly for vertical applications, it resembles a board on batten siding while providing better weather resistance.

Palco Rustic Redwood Vee Shiplap Siding

This versatile pattern may be applied vertically or horizontally. Its dislinct Vee-ioint provides an attractive look that accents many exterior designs.

Sizes

Nominal 1"x8" Pattern #785R except CVIS. (1"x6" #784R CVIS and 1 "x 10" #786R CVIS available on special order.)

Lengths

Random 6'to 201

Grade Manulactured lrom Construction Common & Better California Redwood, air-seasoned, with saw{extured Jace,

Nailing Pattern

Use two nails per bearing as shown in the photograph below Allow l/s"space between pieces to allow for expansion.

Sizes

Nominal I "x 6 " oattern #793 and nominal 1 "x 8 " #794 on special order.

Lengths

Random 6'to 201

Grade Manulactured from Construction Common & Better California Redwood, air-seasoned, with saw{extured face.

Nailing Pattern

Use one nail per bearing for 6"or less (two nails per bearing for 8"or wider) as shown in the photograph below Allow /e "space between pieces to allow for expansion.

Application Instructions

I Forsheating, use plywood, lumber or fiberboard.

r Nailing patterns. See instructions aoove.

I Use only corrosion resistant nails to avoid staining of the wood. ToP quality hot-dipped galvanized, aluminum or stainless steel nails are recommended.

r Nails must penetrale 1/2" inlo studs or combination of solid wood sheathing and studs. Horizontal blocking between studs, or furring strips applied over solid wood sheathing, spaced 24" O.C. should be used for vertical applications.

r All end joints should fall over studs, blocking orfurring strips.

Finishing Recommendations

The saw-textured face should be exposed This su perb su rface holds f inishes up to twice as long as smooth surfaces and resists weathering extremely well. All redwood sidings should be finished and have the finish maintained {or best oerformance.

r Stiains

Popular oil-base and semi-transoarent stains add and retain color, provide protection and do not hide the natural grain, knots or texture of the wood. Oil-base opaque stains will obscure the grain and knots and highlight the wood's texture. Stains containing water repellents and mildewcides are recommended for improved appearance.

r Paints

Use an oil or alkyd-resin base or top quality stain resistant primer on all sides of the lumber. Two acrylic latex too-coats are recom mended.

rWater Repellents

A clear water repellent coating will minimize darkening. The surface will become a buckskin tan. lf maintained, a water repellent will hold a tan color; if not, the wood will eventually reach a driftwood or dark gray.

CALENDAR

MARCH

Southern Forest Products Association - March 7. district meeting, Hyatt Richmond, Richmond, Va.; March E, Ramada Inn, Greenville, N.C.; March 9, Columbia Marriott, Columbia, S.C.

Louislena Building Material Dealers AssociationMarch 9-12, annual convention/show, Hilton, New Orleans, La.

Oklahoma Young LumlermenMarch 10-ll, annual seminar, Sanmark Hotel & Convention Center, Stillwater, Ok.

Nationsl Home Center ShowMarch 12-15, McCormick Place, Chicago, Il.

Nrtional Oak Flooring Manufacturers' AssociationMerch 13-17, hardwood flooring installation school, Memphis, Tn.

Hardwood Manufacturers AssociationMarch 15-f7, annual meeting, Royal Sonesta Hotel, New Orleans, La.

Elder Wood PreservingMarch lE, 4th annual Cochon de Lait, Mansura, La.

Oklehoma Lumbermen?s AssociationMarch 18-19, spring mart, Hall of Modern Living Building, Oklahoma City, Ok.

Nationd Lumber & Building Material Dealers AssociationMarch 1E-21, Conference with Congress, Washington, D.C.

National Hardwood Lumber AssociationMarch 20-22, sales & product knowledge seminar, NHLA Educational Building, Memphis, Tn.

Southern Forest Products AssociationMarch 21, district meeting, Ramada Renaissance, Jackson, Ms.; March 22, Best Western Kings Inn, El Dorado, Ar.;March 23, Arthur Temple Civic Center, Diboll, Tx.

Mississippi Building Material Dealers Association

March 22-25, Coliseum Ramada Inn, Jackson, Ms.

Lumbermen's Club of MemphisMarch 23, luncheon meeting, Racquet Club, Memphis, Tn.

Kentucky Lumber & Building Material Dealers AssociationMarch 2E, western woods seminar, Executive Inn, Paducah, Ky.

Mid-America Lumbermens AssociationMarch 3l-April 2, expo, Convention Auditorium, Hot Springs, Ar.

APRIL

Virginia Building Material Association - April 2-5, annual convention, The Homestead, Hot Springs, Va.

Southern Forest Products Association - April 4, district meeting, Macon Downtown Hilton, Macon, Ga.; April 5, Wynfrey Hotel, Birmingham, Al.; April 6, Radisson Admiral Semmes, Mobile, Al.

Lumbermens Association of Texas - April 6-8, annual convention, San Antonio Convention Center, San Antonio, Tx.

Florida Lumber & Building Material Dealers AssociationApril 4-7, communications conference, Peabody Hotel, Orlando, Fl.

Southern Hardware Convention - April 9-12, sponsored by American Hardware Manufacturers Association and Southern Hardware Association, Opryland Hotel, Nashville, Tn.

Let AL'S MILLWORKS supply your mlllwork neede. We have a large selectlon of merchandlce avallable. Call or wrtte today for your free catalog.

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HomeCenter Merchant

BILL FISHMAN

Bill Fishman & Aftiliates

1'1650 lberia^Plagg -- raising total payrolls or cutting the availSan Diego, Ca.92128 able siore trilpanO customer service.

ITHIN days after we engaged author Tom Peters (ln .Seax'h ttl &cellence/Passion lbr Excellence) as a speaker for the National Home Center Show, he asked for specific details about the industry. With a little research we prepared the following "lact sheets" and a letter assessing the industry.

1O LARGEST RETAILERS

The industry is still hurting from lack ol qualified managemenl. Very little is available in structured through-theranks schooling for store management. Pirating is prevalent and so is recruiting from outside the industry.

The industry is at the threshold of available technology to assist stores in maintaining a consistent in-stock condition. Just-in-time inventory management. UPC and EDI are brand new terms to most retailers.

The home center industry still slumps badly in November and l)ecember, while other retailers post their highest volume. Trim-a-tree and gifty home care merchandise do not compensate for loss of home improvement sales during this gift-giving season. Warm weather months continue to post the highest volumes.

YOU CAN:

I lmprove your customers' satisfaction thanks to more etficient service

I Increase forecasting accuracy for better inventory control

I Increase your protits with more f requent inventory turnover

I Automate your pricing and credit policies

l...PLUSmuchmore

Send for your FREE Distribution Checklist loday. Or call 9f 3-362-8994

IIIIIII

The next step in autonation lor distributorc Please send my tree

Maintaining competitive prices has played havoc with the bottom line. The giants, warehouse operators and national chains, are battling for market share in major markets, catching the independent retailer in the squeeze. In the search for increased margins, retailers have taken over the distribution functions, buying direct. The past few years have seen the demise of independent distributors. The domino effect has cut channels of distribution for some suppliers.

Governmental regulations have added new responsibilities for retail management. Hot products such as treated lumber are being legislated out of some markets and in some states OSHA holds the authority to issue fines up to $ I 0,000 per day to stores violating complex hazard communication standards.

Margins for manufacturers have been rocked by the squeeze by retailers and the skyrocketing cost of insurance. Unlike in the food or health and beauty industry, it is difncult to pass along l0% to 250lo increases to home center customers.

Increases in minimum wage affect home centers, just like other retailers, by

Major markets are saturated with warehouse outlets and national and regional chains. Independents who had lound a niche in smaller rural markets now feel the hot breath ofthe chains and warehouses. Rural home centers are also affected by the sales pricing in metropolitan newspaper inserts that find their way into rural households.

1O LARGEST PROGRAMMED WHOLESALERS

Before the advent of the warehouse operators, "professionals" (smaller contractors, commercial and industrial users, property managers, etc.) were the customers of the conventional lumber dealer. Today these high volume users are being solicited by distributors, specialty retailers, and by manufacturers

who bypass conventional channels of distribution.

Taking the lead from WalMart, a few major national retail chains are refusing to deal with manufacturer's reps, disrupting normal distribution channels

1O TOP MANUFACTURERS

Gedar & Redwood Tlmbels

Failures, mergers, acquisitions and unfriendly takeovers have had an adverse affect on the industry. Suppliers are faced with fewer doors leading to market expansion. Consolidation of staffs has pushed qualified but aging executives back in to the job market. Business failures at the retail level have taken suppliers under with them, or at least wiped out years of profits.

MOST FREOUENTLY CARRIED PRODUCT CATEGORIES

Lumber and Millwork

Hardware

Hand Tools

Paneling/Plywood

Paint/Wallcovering

Power Tools

M asonry/Siding/l nsulation

Electrical Supplies

Plumbing Equipment

Lawn and Garden Supplies

Foreign investors have a strong foothold in the marketplace. Major U.S. home center chains and manufacturers now answer to headquarters in Europe, Australia and Canada.

Regulations involving the harvesting and processing of lumber in the United States and unbalanced trade with other countries have put home center suppliers at a disadvantage and raised prices.

My letter ended ". that's a broad brush painting of the industry in the 1980s, Mr. Peters. Where do we hnd the pathways to success in the 90s?"

I can't wait to listen to his response. It should be a great encounter.

We're redwood and cedar experts. Chances are we have what you want,in stock, ready for immediate delivery. Let us find your hard to fill requirements. And if you have a load originating in Southern California, use our modern, efficient facilities to add your special items. You can save yourself time and trouble by using our inventory and our expertise as direct mill specialists. Let's work together.

nE0U000 structural grades offer builders an altemalive to pressure troatsd lumbor lor deck undorstlucturos.

I ONG recognized as one of the most beautiful L woods, redwood is now gaining a reputation for its muscle.

A durable, all heartwood grade and a grade for above ground use that contains a combination of heartwood and sapwood are being manufactured by the Pacific Lumber Co. at its sawmills in Fortuna, Ca. "These new structural grades provide strength values not commonly found in redwood and beauty not matched by other structural species," says C. W. "Bill" Stevens, general sales manager.

No. 2 structural heart and No. 2 structural redwood are graded for strength, unlike the general purpose redwood grades construction heart and construction common. Targeting the deck and outdoor living markets, Palco is producing and shipping 2x8, 2xl0 and 2xl2 intended for use as joists, stringers, beams and ledgers.

"Redwood requires no special handling or methods of disposal, unlike pressure treated lumber, its mqior competition in the deck market," says Stevens. "Redwood also holds finishes better and is easier to work with beQause it is virtually free from pitch and resins," he added.

The strength specifications for No. 2 structural heart and No. 2 structural redwood are included in the National Grades established by the American Lumber Standards Committee. Palco is combining these strength standards with the appearance standards established in the redwood industry. As a result, the structural grades are strong enough for load bearing application, yet have the quality appearance typical ofconstruction heart and construction common redwood which are graded on their appearance.

New redvrrood structural grades

The following tables show recommended joist spans and strength specifications for No. 2 structural heart and No. 2 structural. Spans are calculated using 40 pounds per square foot live load and l0 pounds per square foot dead load. Deflection is limited to l/240.

JOIST SIZE SPAN (16" o.c.)

(24" o.c.)

Working stresses for green No. 2 structural heart and No. 2 structural redwood 2 to 4 inches thick and 5 inches and wider are shown in the table below. Fiber

Palco's grademark will appear on all structural products, both No. 2 structural heart redwood and No. 2 structural redwood.

Story at a Glance

New grades for deck and outdoor living markets. .. heartwood and combination of heartwood and sapwood grades... charts show recommended spans and strengths.

AIFP Redwood Specials

514 x 6" KD ConAIrt Radius Edge Decking

Balusters,2x2 3' , 4' & 8' KD ClH, ClC, BEE Grade, Clear, Eased-Edge

Deck Packages 2x4 - 2xl2

4x4,4x6,6x6 Mix & Match

lx4 - 1xl2 CAH^/G

ll2x4, ll2x6, U2x8 CAHA/G 5l4x9 & 1x8 Rustic Sidin

SOUTHERN ASSOCIATION

l,umbermen's Associrtion of Texes has mailed registration materials for its upcoming convention, April 6-8 in San Antonio, Tx. Meetings and tradeshow activities will center in the Convention ('enter. The llilton Palacio del Rio will be the site of the president's banquet. (See p. 7 for complete story.)

Kentucky l,umber & Building Material Dealers Association has elected officers and directors for 1989.

Ken Lawson Jr., Stratton Lumber & llardware (1o., Nicholasville, will be presidentl Bill Bucher, Square I)eal Lumber Co., Park City, vice president; H. R. Saufley lll, Builders Supply, Inc. Stanford, chairman ol the board. and Bob Powell, Powell Lumber Co., Sebree, national director.

Directors: William R. Baker. Stratton

Lumber & l{ardware Co., Nicholasville: Terry L. lJarnes, lndependence Lumber & Supply Co., Inc., lndependencel (ierald Boland, Boland-Maloney Lumber Co,, Louisville: Leroy C'hewning, Ambrose Home Depot, Hopkinsville; I)on Clucas, Cole Lumber Co., Paducahl Jim Conder. Leitchfield L.umber Co., Leitchfieldl Jack E. Congleton, ('ongleton Lumber Co., Lexington; Mitch Cornelius, Beattyville Lumber & Supply, Ileattyville; Don Flellman, Hellman Lumber Co., Covingtonl Robert lJunt, Rogers Lumber Co., Bowling (ireenl Steve Levy, Levy's Lumber & lluilding Centers, Louisville; John McCormick, McCormick Lumber C'o.. Mt. Sterling; Charles McWhorter, Clay County Building Supply, Manchester. Associate directors: Paul Arling, Arling Lumber Co., Cincinnati, Oh.. and Joe Ballard, Falls City Lumber Co., Louisville.

Okhhomr Lumbermen's Assochtlon will award a pick-up truck to one of the retailers attending, the 43rd Spring Mart '89 at the Oklahoma City Fairground, Oklahoma City, Ok., March l8 and 19.

One ticket for the drawing will be given for each $100 purchased at the show. The drawing will be the last event of the two day convention and exposition. The all industry reception at the Oklahoma City Marriott Hotel, headquarters flor the convention, will be held the evening before the Spring Mart opens.

June l0-ll have been announced as dates for the summer conference at the I:ountainhead Resort, Checotah, Ok.

Mississlppi Building Material Dealers Association is completing final arrangements for the 63rd annual convention and building products trade show, March 22-25 al the Coliseum Ramada Inn, Jackson, Ms. Plywood seminars and a workshop with Jim Pence are included on the program.

V irginia Building M aterial Association's Video Vault has almost 50 video tapes available for loan to members. Tapes available include subjects suit-

Redwood, with its distinctive natural beauty, has always been the preferred decking lumber for those who could afford the quality. Now with L-P Desert Dry Redwood, you can supply performance and prestige for a fraction of the price you'd expecl

L-P Desert Dry Redwood construc-

tion heart and construction common have tight knots and the natural variations of color and pattern which distinguish them from cedar and pressure-treated lumber. It's an upscale look At a down-to-earth price.

LP Desert Dry Redwood is kilndried so you can offer economy and

performance every step of the way. By taking the moisture content down to 19 percent or less, the load is lightened and you get more board feet on every truck Desert Dry Redwood loses nothing but water in the process On the job, joints stay tight and shrinkage is controlled. It also maintains a superior resistance

able for customer clinics, employee training and business management.

Final arrangements are being completed for the 63rd VBMA convention annual at The Homestead, Hot Springs, Va., April 9-12.

Louisiana Building Material Dealers Association is holding its annual convention March 9-12 at the New Orleans Hilton Riverside and Towers, New Orleans.

Dennis Stine. Louisiana commissioner of administration, will speak at a luncheon honoring past presidents. Bill Lee will conduct a seminar on negotiating.

Election of a board of directors and officers will be held. Several social events, including a presidents reception and banquet, a riverboat cruise and a day at the races, are planned.

Southern Forest Products Association will hold nine district meetings beginning this month. The coordinators, date and location of each are: Tom Ellington, Union Camp Corp., March 7, Richmond, Va.; James Barnes, Federal Paper Board Co., Inc., March 8, Greenville, N.C.; Eugene Parker, Westvaco Lumber, March 9, Columbia, S.C.g John

Hammack, Hood Industries, Inc., March 21, Jackson, Ms.; William Morrow, Manville Forest Products Corp., March 22, El Dorado, Ar.t David Anderson, Anderson Manufacturing Co., March 23, Diboll, Tx.; David Fleiner, Georgia-Pacific Corp., April 4, Macon, Ga.: John Nichols. AT&N Lumber Service, April 5, Birmingham, Al.; and G. Robin Swift lll, April6, Mobile, Al.

Florida Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association has scheduled its annual summer conference for June l4-18 at the Saddlebrook Resort, Tampa, Fl.

The FLBMDA Communications Conference will be held April 7 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Peabody Hotel in Orlando. The floor plan for this second

conference has been expanded to allow 25 booths with a wider range of product lines and an unlimited number of delegates.

The association is conducting a membership campaign mini-drive through March 31. Terry Lewis, chairman of the 1989 membership committee, is leading the drive with Bill Grimes. Brad Cook. Don Jennings and Charles Scott as district captains.

Trees will be donated to the Give Kids the World Village in recognition of companies joining. Planting day will be April 6 at the housing site in Kissimmee. Awards for the winning captain, coach and most valuable player on the membership campaign team will be presented at this time.

WWPA seminars will be held in Fort Myers on March 14 and Orlando headquarters on March 15.

Oklahoma Young Lumbermen will hear Dr. Mike Skinner of Louisville, Ky., speaking on "Service & the Customer" at Seminar '89, March l0-l I in Stillwater, Ok.

The Sunmark Hotel and Convention Center will be the location of the meeting which is co-sponsored by the MidAmerica Lumbermens Association. Dealers from around the state will attend.

to decay and insects.Dried, trimmed, and surfaced so sizes are true, it s paperwrapped for protection in 2" x 4", 2"x 6", 2"x8"-12" dimensions and lengths up to 20 feel

For more information about Desert Dry Redwood or any of our other grades

of redwood. call Bob Mosbv. Redwood Sales Manager, at(707) M5-?5lL

LP Desert Dry Redwood. No longer reserved for a privileged few.

Adhesive bonding prcduoes eoonomical rcdwood building products

By Chrrles J. Jourdrln Supervisor, Technical Services California Redwood Association

EVEL siding, T&G paneling and 2x6 decking are familiar redwood lumber products. However, adhesive bonding makes available a variety of other redwood products which you can recommend to your customers.

Creating in many cases a better performing and more cost effective product, adhesive bonding also conserves forest products. Glulam, IJoists, LVL, Paralam, OSB and waferboard are all adhesively bonded engineered wood products. While redwood doesn't compete directly with these for most structural applications, its natural durability, high dimensional stability and aesthetic appeal provide a number of glued products.

Classified by the U.S. Forest Products Laboratory as a wood that glues easily under a wide range of conditions. redwood heartwood and sapwood take and hold glue equally well. Since good machining of the surface is essential in preparation for

gluing, redwood's quality of being easy to work with either machine or hand tools is a plus.

Redwood plywood is manufactured as exterior siding, but is used for interiors as well, Produced in accordance with U.S. Products Standard PS l-83, its manufacture and quality control are overseen by the American Plywood Association. All panels bear the APA grade trademark.

Redwood veneers (Species Group 3) are used in the fabrication of APA 303 Series Specialty Siding. Five-ply, 5/8" thick panels are manufactured with redwood face and back veneers and a redwood center ply. Cross bands are fir or another species at mill option. Solid redwood plywood is available upon request. Veneers are bonded with waterproof phenolic resin adhesives.

Face veneers are available in heartwood or heartwood and sapwood. Redwood plywood siding is manufactured in a number of surface patterns and textures including the popular T l-l l. For interior applications, there are 3/8" panels.

Redwood glued laminated (glulam) beams are not as readily available as fir or pine glulams. However, this unique product should be specified where natural durability and appearance are paramount.

The Uniform Building Code approves the use of glulams manufactured from woods with natural resistance to decay in applications where structural members are exposed to the weather and not protected by pressure preservative treatment or other means. Glulams can be manufactured entirely of redwood heartwood for this purpose or with the weather exposed portion of heartwood and the interior portion from a

RE0W000 glued laminated beams provide both natural durability and handsome appearance.

FltlGEff iointed redwood can be used successfully in renovation as illustrated by this Victori'an mansion remodeled into condominiums.

non-durable species. Waterproof adhesive resorcinol is used.

Standard Specifications for Grades of California Redwood Lumber for structural laminations lists five special all purpose grades. Identified as Ll through L5, these visual grades correspond to clear all heart, clear, select heart, construction heart and construction common. Laminating grade descriptions are similar to those for general purpose grades except for restrictions on slope of grain and ring count.

If your customer's redwood project requires large curved beams or arches, redwood structural glulams can be the best recommendation. Fabricated from certified kiln dried laminations, they will not shrink once installed.

Redwood siding, facia and trim are available in economical finger jointed form. By cutting clear wood sections from between the knots of shop grade lumber and gluing them end-to-end, long lengths of high grade lumber are manufactured. The short pieces of certihed kiln dried clear stock are joined with catalyzed urea resin adhesive and cured bY high frequency electrical energy to create a durable highly moisture resistant bond.

Finger jointed redwood siding is

produced in patterns including bevel, shiplap and T&G. Single and double plowed facia and S4S boards are also manufactured. Other standard redwood patterns are available by special order. Because all knots are cut out prior to gluing, grades are clear all heart and clear. Vertical grain or mixed grain can be specified.

Story at a Glance Summary of redwood glued products... manufacture and application suitability...rec'

ommendations for use.

Redwood glued-up panels are produced by combining hnger jointing and edge gluing. These come in 3/4" or ll/16" thicknesses. Most are used for overhead garage doors.

Adhesive bonding combined with redwood's characteristic durability, stability, aesthetic appeal and ease of machining produces economical redwood construction products which a dealer can recommend with confidence.

These case-hardened screws are hot-dipped in molten zinc, and ale excellent tol use with Prcssurc treated lumber, cedar and rcd' wood. Outdoor uses include decks, boat docks, stePs, Patios' furnltur€, lences, flower boxes, or any project wherc long-term cor' rosion-resistance and exceptional holding power ane required. No pre-drilling necessary. PhilliPs head sets flush.

lree cataiog on \-lmenrclt thecomP.le.te

Maze nail line-

Watch for these ExciJing Issues in Coming IUIonths

Aprtt: Computer Special lssue

May: Outdoor Special Issue

June: Panel Products Special lssue

July: Door & Window Special Issue

August: Moulding & Millwork Special lssue

September: Computer Special Issue

Wcycducurcr Dcelgn Ccntcr

An interactive computer-based design system to help customers transform home improvement ideas into three dimensional designs will be installed by Weyerhaeuser in some 250 selected home centers and lumber yards this spring.

Called the most innovative and significant home improvement tool for the building products industry, the Designcenter module will allow do-it-yourselfers, with the assistance of a Weyerhaeuser trained sales person, to explore various deck configurations on a video screen.

"Consumers can walk into the Weyerhaeuser DesignCenter with a rough idea, and walk out with a three-dimensional rendering of a suggested design, construction details and materials list to build a deck or another project," according to Bill Simmonds, Weyerhaeuser vice president of total quality. "And, even more, they will have enjoyed the iir'ocess and will very likely come back to one of our retailers when they approach another building project. "

"The DesignCenter is part of our increasing emphasis on strengthening the brand awareness for Weyerhaeuser products such as Lifewood

Slmpoon's Redvrood Strategy

In a move to focus its marketing and production efforts on young growth redwood, Simpson Redwood Co., an operating division of Simpson Timber Co., plans to close its Arcata, Ca., remanufacturing plant in mid-I989. The office will remain open for the present, although it is expected that it will move to the young growth redwood facility Simpson operates at Korbel, Ca., in about two years.

Two other Simpson facilities involved in old growth redwood will continue to operate at current levels: Orick. Ca., and the Brainard mill between Arcata and Eureka, Ca.

Old growth redwood operations will be handled solely by Arcata Redwood Co., which Simpson acquired in June. It will cut all of Simpson's old growth logs and is expected to continue doing so for approximately seven or eight years.

In old growth, Simpson competes with the Pacific Lumber Co.. which

treated lumber and specialty products and Choicewood hardwood lumber," he added.

The design software and hardware was created by Innovis Interactive Technologies, a Weyerhaeuser subsidiary. The first DesignCenter systems will be located in Chicago, ll.; Boston, Ma.; Hartford, Ct.; Detroit, Mi., and Minneapolis, St. Paul, Mn.

is expected to be a dominant player well into the next century. Industry sources say Miller Redwood's old growth redwood supply is not expected to last beyond the late 1990s.

Major Simpson competitors in the young growth redwood market are Georgia-Pacific and Louisiana-Pacific. Smaller competitors include Eel River Sawmills, Redwood Empire and Harwood.

By dividing its efforts, Simpson says it can best direct its efforts to longer term operations in young growth redwood, which it anticipates to increase 3000/o in the next 10-15 years.

Weyeftaeuser Renews PBS TV

Weyerhaeuser Co., Tacoma. Wa.. will continue to underwrite the Emmy-Award-winning public television program This Old House for a second year.

EI8Y.I0.U8E design system will help retailers to focus on individual design needs of customers. Used as a consultive tool, it can completely plan home improvement projects.

ildinq Producis Bu PERSONALS

Robert Bramlett has been added to hardwood sales at Potlatch Corp., Warren, Ar., according to Steve Langton.

David B. Landskroener has been appointed mgr. of Delmarva Sash & Door Co.. Richmond. Va.

William J. Rippin has been promoted to operation oflicer of Servistar Corp. in Virginia. Joan Trach is now planning coordinator to the pres./c.e.o.

Joseph C. Briggs III is the new reg. market mgr. for Tx. and Ok. for the Southern Forest Products Association.

Mike Collins is now in treated wood products sales at New South Inc., Conway, S.C.

Brian Todd lludson, merchandising mgr., Lowe's Cos., Charlotte, N.C., married Lisa Diane Dotson Jan. 7, I 989.

Tommie Cargill, Donaldson-Yahn Lumber Co., Perry, Ok., has been named Perry's Employee of the Year.

Pamela Wooddell is a new sales rep for Chesapeake Corp.'s Holly Hill treating plant, Eutawville, S.C., according to Rae R. Ehlen, pres. and gen. mgr.

David Walser is now mgr. of 84 Lumber Co., Haymarket, Va.

Gene Nelson, Georgia-Pacific, Atlanta, Cia., has been elected chairman of the executive committee ol the Plywood Paneling Council. Diana Montoya, States Industries, chairs the marketing committee.

Steven D. Holmes has been appointed plant mgr. of Wayne-Dalton Corp.'s residential garage door mfg. facility, Pensacola, Fl.

Brad Bradley is the new gen. mgr. of the Orlando. Fl.. div. of McEwen Lumber Co., High Point, N.C.

John V. Faraci has been named pres. of Masonite Corp., according to David I.J. Wang, exec. v.p. of Parent co. International Paper. Faraci succeeds Witliam J. White, who has resigned.

WHAT'S NEW WITH YOU?

Building Products DEesl wants to know when you changejobs, get a promotion, take a vacation, get married, have a baby or receive recognition. send your note to Building Products Digest, 4500 Campus Dr., Suite 480, Newport Beach, Ca. 92660 or call (714) 852-1990. We're waiting to hear from you.

Buddy Haile has joined Trussway, Inc., Houston, Tx., as sales mgr. of the new Trussway Lumber Co. division. Frank Billings has joined Berdex International, Sacramento, Ca., handling import/export lumber & millwork items.

Peyton Swan, co-owner, Village Sentry Hardware, Tampa, Fl., won the grand prize, a 3 hp. Peak mini-car, at General Sentry Hardware Co.'s recent Super Show.

Kenneth Morris has been named plant mgr. for Coastal Lumber Co.'s Kinston. N.C.. operation.

Carl H. Mdonnell has been named sales mgr. of Donner Mouldings & Millwork, Fort Worth, Tx., and Chilhowie, Va., a div. of DG Mouldings, Marion, Va.

E.L. Ware, Starr Lumber Co., Woodward, Ok., recently shot a hole in one at Woodward's Boiling Springs Golf Course.

Harold Merrill, Owasso Lumber, Owasso, Ok., has been appointed by mayor Stacy Lamb to a watchdog committee overseeing local sales tax expenditures.

Nathan Hanner, Ash Bros., Inc., Kingfisher, Ok., is celebrating his 50th year in the lumber business.

Terry Smith, Mid-America Lumber, Lawton, Ok., has been named 1988 Associate of the Year by the Lawton Home Builders Association.

Frances McMichael has resigned as public relations mgr. of Scotty's, Winter Haven, Fl., to join the Polk County School Board as communications & lobbying specialist.

Jim Walker has joined the MidAmerica Lumbermens Association as lead lobbyist for Oklahoma, according to Grady Ollie Jr., Geo. Ollie's Lumber Co., Pocola, Ok., pres.

Don Webb and George Breedon have been honored as Salesmen of the Year by General Sentry Hardware Co., Jacksonville, Fl.

Tom Mercer, Mercer Paints, Melbourne, Fl., won third place in Cabot Stains' "Build a Great Display for Labor Day" Sweepstakes, according to Tony Faria, Cabot v.P. of sales & marketing.

C. William Gray has been named a senior v.p. of Champion International, Stamford, Ct.

Willie Rust has been appointed to the Dept. of Deferred Maintenance at Mungus-Fungus Forest Products' Climax, Nv., rePort owners Hugh Mungus and FreddY Fungus.

REDWOOD Forest Prodrrcts

ReeHhg Remmbllry Redrvood

Two new colors, resembling coastal redwood and silver ash, have been added to Alcan Building Products' line of Cedarwood aluminum siding.

NEW PR DUCTS

and selected soles oids

Nalls Wlth A Twlst

Stainless steel spiral masonry nails which reportedly will not split softwood or cause significant damage are now available from Helix Reinforcements Ltd. of England.

Especially effective in connecting wooden sections to aerated concrete blocks, Spiro-Fix helix nails produce a spiral, threaded channel and a more secure bond.

The nails can then be removed, if necessary, by unscrewing them.

FREE READER SERVICE

For more information on New Products wrile Building Products Digest, 4500 Campus Dr., Suite 480, Newport Beach, Ca 92660. Please mention issue date and page numoer so we can process your request fasterl Many thanksl

Features include authentic woodgrain appearance, multi-tone finish and fluorocarbon coating for improved durability.

The siding comes in double 5 in., 8 in. and vertical profiles.

Display Your Connectaons

A framing connector merchandiser is now available to display Lumberlok Products.

The 4' wide by 5'6" high gondola made from brightly finished metal tubing includes wire baskets with adjustable dividers, product description cards, and a descriptive 29" x 21" display header with frame.

lnner-Seal U nderlayment

A new Inner-Seal OSB underlayment panel featuring a moistureresistant resin formulation that sisnificantly reduces any tendency t-o expand or contract on thejob site has been developed by LouisianaPacific.

The rigid, exterior grade 4' x 8' panel is sanded on both sides for a uniform thickness and smooth surface. The underlayment is free of knots, core voids, splits and checks,

and backed by a one-year warranty. The resin produces a chemical bond with the cellulose in the wood fiber to reduce any tendency to absorb moisture. The stability of the panel assures nails and staples remain flush with the surface.

Standard thickness is l/4 in., but the panels are also available by special order in 3/8,7 /16 and 1/2-in. dimensions to meet special subfloor and threshold matching requirements.

Products such as joist hangers, post and beam anchors, purlin hangers, truss plates, framing anchors, reinforcing angles, sill plate anchors and plywood/waferboard sheathing supports can be grouped in any of60 categories.

Low Maintenance Millwork

Prefinished millwork featuring molded urethane exteriors, a primer and two finish coats to withstand the abuses of weather is now available from The American Woodwork Specialty Co.

Steady Storage

The Balance Box, a tool holder with a base designed to sit securely on narrow or wide joists or pitched surfaces without sliding, has been introduced by Alta Industries.

Made of high density, lightweight polyethylene, the tool box is said to resist cracking. lt also features a waterproof wood handle and two pull-out parts trays with multi-sized compartments.

Easily Engineered Railway

A fully-adjustable hardwood rail system that comes fully attached for simple installation is new from United Stairs Corp.

The EZ Rail has concealed hinges at the end of each baluster which connect to the top and bottom rails so the unit can be folded into a "2"

bulky stand-up items; 4-l/2"x6"x3" flor less bulky items, and 4-7/2" x3"x5" to hold ball or flat-shaped gad-

Shur-Wood windows are offered in octagonal and oval styles, and louvers in full-round, full-round with keyblocks and octagonal models. Millwork features a cast-in woodgrain pattern, a choice of three architectural trim colors and optional architectural trim outs

lnvisible Watchdog

An electronic alarm that simulates the barking of a vicious dog to ward off intruders is new from Progressive Energy Corp.

Any sound causes the alarm to bark for 55 seconds. lt then shuts itself off until it hears another sound. The alarm plugs into a standard electric outlet. Both the loudness of the

shape for packing, shipping, storage, and display.

The solid wood stair and balcony railings are available in oak or poplar, hand-sanded, ready to stain or paint, or pre-furniture-finished in golden oak or chestnut.

Fully Exposed Displays

gets. The first two models also have separator teeth and floor ribs to help keep stock neat.

The merchandisers fit standard slatwalls or can be snapped onto wire display holders.

Almost Real Trees

Silk trees made on natural wood trunks for added realism have been developed by Autograph Foliages. An entire line of artificial trees and outdoor shrubbery is offered.

alarm and the amount of noise necessary to activate it are adjustable.

An actual recording of an English bull terrier is stored on a computer microchip so there are no moving parts to wear out.

See-through, modular display bins for housewares, tools and gadgets are now available from Rowoco. Made from high impact, vacuumformed thermo-plastic, C-Bins feature snap-in label pockets and slanted fronts to give full stock appearance even when supply is low.

The bins come in three sizes: 9" x 6" x 3" with a center bar for long,

Handllng Hand Toolr

An easy-to-apply compound for making custom plastic grips for all types of hand tools is new from Great Northern Research.

Poly Flex may be applied by dipping, brushing or spraying. lt reportedly dries in 24 hours to a thick, pliable finish that may be used on metal, wood or plastic. It is said to form a weathertight seal for protection against moisture, chemicals and corrosion, and resist cracking, chipping and peeling.

Roll Out The Maeklng

A convenient dispenser for paint masking tape is now available from Daubert Coated Products.

Designed to be clipped on a belt, the handy dispenser allows a painter to have both hands free to unroll the masking, cut against the serrated edge and apply to any surface.

The durable plastic dispenser comes in four sizes, to be used with Easy-Mask tape rolls measuring 400 ft. long by 3, 6, 9 or 12 in. wide.

Pst Stop

A ready-to-assemble dog house is now available from Handy Home Products.

The quality plywood Kanine Kabin comes in three sizes, featuring rough-sawn plywood siding, bevel siding roof and waferboard floor. A ridge cap is included to finish the roof peak.

The economical waferboard model is available in two sizes,

It is non-toxic, non-flammable and water-based. Each application provides a coat up to l/8" thick.

The compound comes in a variety of sizes and seven colors (black, blue, red, yellow, orange, green, white).

The Masked Dispenser

A new hand-masker from 3M enables painters to dispense a con-

FOR ilORE INFORTATION CONTACT: TERRY MURPHY TREATED AND WHITE LUMSER SALES MANAGER OR DAVID HAYNES SALES REPRESEIiITATIVE

The tape is made of smooth kraft paper, is saturated to prevent paint bleed-through, sticks firmly to most surfaces, and won't leave a sticky residue.

tinuous sheet of masking paper or film in one smooth stroke.

Lightweight and compact, the dispenser helps install protective paper to shield walls, windows and floors from paint runs, roller mist and overspray.

The tool has only two moving parts, and lubrication is not needed. A carrying holster is included.

Unstop The Drain

The Flush-n-Flow System from Hahn Manufacturing Co. contains everything needed to unclog drains easily by utilizing water pressure to clear away stubborn blockages.

A unique drain opener with a faucet adapter and shut-off valve is attached to a faucet, overflow drains are sealed off, the sink is filled with 1" of water and the water does the work.

The drain opener is constructed of molded rubber. Also included are an 8-ft. rubber hose, shut-offvalve and faucet adapter.

OPERATING OPPORTUNITIES

WALLY LYNCH Paid Associates PO. Box 741623 Daffas, Tx.75243

f UEne has been so much emphasis I in our industry in the past few years on price that no one seems to have time or interest in anything else.

The computer has helped most of us to become more productive. Our time is spent in those efforts which allow us to provide lower prices. We negotiate harder, longer and, hopefully, more effectively. We advertise more and make public guarantees to have the lowest price.

We certainly are reacting to one another and treating the symptoms in a massive way. But what about the cause? For what purpose are you in business? To have the lowest price or to make the highest net proht?

It seems a paradox, but can you imagine what would have happened to profits ii as an industry, we had spent as much money on people and their productivity as we did on price impression the past few years? Here are a few rocks you can look under in your organization to see how you might have fared.

TRAINING Look inside your operation and ask is our training program conducive to attracting, developing and retaining the best people? Imagine the military without basic training. The employer or employee untrained in the fundamentals of personal selling and customer relations, regardless of his assignment, can't march or shoot effectively in the retail market. Professional trainers, in just these two subjects, can show thousands of third party letters attesting to 250/o to 500/o favorable sales change through structured training.

OVERTIME A 50 hour week costs an additional 37.5% in dollars for 250/o more hours. Companies should be using part time employees at close to minimum wage without benefits to eliminate overtime and benefit costs.

BUSINESS PLAN A major imperative of any productive company is the setting and agreeing to goals. Would any football coach bring a team to a game without a plan? Can any work force be effec-

tive without knowing the rules and objectives?

TURNOVER Studies indicate that nationally, on average, one of every four employees in every work force is changed annually. This is a 250lo rate. Recruiters are charging in the area of 30% of the first year's salary. Add training time costs. relocation. etc. and it's a huge number. Personality and aptitude testing are inexpensive preventive medicines. Companies can test not only prehiring, but existing employees as well. Results provide management with a

guide to what has been successful to compare with candidates. Costs range nominally between $50 and $150 per test.

COST OF GOODS GONE is another way ofsaying "cost ofgoods sold and/or stolen." Theft bugaboo in retailing continues to rise. Various estimates range to 3.80/o of sales. The National Retail Merchant's Association (NRMA) identifies it as 450/o employee theft, 350/o customer theft and 200/o error and/or bookkeeping fraud. Virtual outlawing of lie detector tests makes written, inexpensive honesty tests a must in coming to grips with the manageable part of the 3.80/0.

A good exercise would be to cost and evaluate the benefit potentials described above against your own P & L at halfthe worth stated. For most, payroll will run about 60% oftotal operating expenses. If you want more details, write to the address in the column heading or call (2141 690-6600.

Revealing the roots of the upside-down hardwood

A RABIAN LEGEND states:

F "The devil plucked up the baobab, thrust its branches into the earth, and left its roots in the air." This, as aptly as any other explanation could, perfectly describes the unique baobab (Andansonia digitata), with its long, tangled branches stretching out to the sky, resembling a massive root system.

The hardwood grows in low altitudes in the hot, dry grasslands of Africa. It is a member of the Bombacaceae family, related to the kapok, balsawood and cacao families. The baobab is also known as the monkeybread tree or the Cream of Tartar tree because of the tartaric acid that comes from its fruit pods.

Typically, a baobab may reach 60 feet in height and more than 30 feet in width. Its branches will grow more than 30 feet out from the trunk and its roots may spread out as far as 300 feet away.

As strange as it looks, the baobab is an extremely valuable tree, with nearly every part of some use to man. The seeds can be sround and

roasted to make a coffee-like drink. The pulp of the tree itself can be made into a seasoning, which then can be mixed with water to produce a refreshing beverage. The pulp is also used commercially, as a coagulant for rubber.

Story at a Glance

Baobab's branches resemble far-reaching roots.. African hardwood grows over 60 feet high and 30 feet wide. . almost every part of the tree is useful.

The tree produces sausage-shaped fruit, 6 to 10 inches long and 4 inches wide, that are eaten by wild animals and natives. Pulp of the fruit can be used as a leaven for bread,

and the fruit's outer covering can be used in the manufacture of fertilizer, soap and plaster. Irresh leaves have been used as a vegetable, and dried leaves as condiments and seasoning.

The fibrous bark of the baobab. often up to 3 inches thick, is used to make paper, cloth, clothing, rope, fishnets, drinking vessels, and in the making of certain musical instruments.

The barrel-like trunks are often excavated to serve as temporary shelters or water reserves. At 90 feet in circumference, a trunk can store up to 25,000 gallons of water.

When baobabs die, they collapse into a huge fibrous mass which decomposes quickly. The mass has even been know to burst into flames through spontaneous combustion.

Everything about the tree seems foreign and ancient. Its name, having existed since Biblical times, originated in a language of equatorial Africa. But although the baobab is native to Africa, it is grown as a curiosity in other warm areas, including Florida.

$r\,lb .Ufr llllt\\rt

Interfor Upgrades Marketing

Sales and marketing efforts are being integrated by the International Forest Products Ltd. cedar group, Vancouver, 8.C., to improve customer service.

Mark Semeniuk, Silver Tree Division sales manager, explains, "Our new approach to marketing planning and integration is an important step forward since our planning has been minimal and carried out on a totally decentralized sawmill by sawmill basis. The changes we are making will enable us to greatly enhance service to our customers."

Semeniuk and Russell Taylor, McDonald Cedar sales manager, will divide sales and marketing responsibilities in North American and offshore export markets by geographic region.

Taylor said that his division has invested some $8 million in a new plant and equipment and increased annual production from 50 to 80 million board feet. The Interfor cedar group, which includes both of these divisions, is one of the largest cedar product producers in the world. They have doubled production in the past five years.

UOYOU HNEA GOOD REASON TO PAY MORE?

As an independent building materials dealer, you must remain competitive. You can't afford t0 pay too much. Nor do you have a good reason to.

non-profit buying corporation that has helped independents remain competitive for over 50 years.

500-plus dealer membership to insure the best possible price. And all discounts, rebates, datings and advertising funds are passed back to members. unique system that helps you t0 remain competitive. And profitable. Headquarters for

CHATGES olanned lor Interfor cedar marketing were explained by Silvertree division sales manager Mark Semeniuk as he toured

the rough lumber yard, loading and timber deck areas at the South Vancouver. 8.C.. sawmill.

NEWLITERATURE

The Softwood Trade

Tradins Western .Sollwood Lumber, a 190-p. softcover book detailing the wholesale marketing of western so[twoods, is $24.95 plus shipping from llighland Press, PO Box 933, Wilsonville, Or. 97070.

Home Repalr Schedule

A home maintenance calendar listing monthly reminders of important maintenance jobs is $6.95 plus $l shipping from Oen Enterprises, 27 W. 581 Ridge View St.. W. Chicago, ll. 60185.

Hardwood Cabinetry

Information on new cherry and ivory oak kitchen and bath cabinel lines is free from American Woodmark. Box 1980. Winchester, Ya. 22601

Home Center Party Planner

"How to Put the Magic in a Home Center Operations Business Motivation/ (iala" is free from Chez-zam Entertainment, Box 348, Jericho, N.Y. 11753.

A Roof Top View

A comprehensive roof insulations catalog (form 1627-0881 Rev. E) is free from Celotex, PO Box 22602, Tampa, Ft.33622.

Healthy Drinking

A 4-p. water purifying systems brochure is free from The Water Professionals, by calling (800) 828-1922.

Truck Buyer's Booklet

A l2-p. truck purchasing guide is free from PACCAR, by calling (800) 5520024.

Residing & Reroofing

The 32-p. "Reroofing & Residing Your Home" is $3, refundable with purchase, from Georgia-Pacific, Box 2808. Norcross, Ga. 30091.

Signage, Streamers, Etc.

A sales aids catalog is free from Dismar, by calling (800) 223-1029.

FOR PROMPT SERVICE

on all New Literature stories write directly to the name and address shown in each item, Please mention that you saw it in Building Products Digest, Many thanks!

Lockset Llneup

An architectural hardware catalog is free from PDQ Industries, by calling (800) 441-9692.

Llft Truckln'

"How to Choose and Use Your Lift Truck Dealer," an 8-p. guide, is free from Hyster Co., by calling (800) 221r r9l.

Concrete Forming

A 24-p. concrete forming guide is free from the American Plywood Association, PO Box 11700, Tacoma, Wa. 9841 l.

Two By Two By You

Making Noah's .4rk Toys in Wood, a 160-p. softcover book for woodworkers, is $9.95 from Sterling Publishing Co., 2 Park Ave., New York, N.Y. 10016.

Annual Southern Directory

The 40-p. 1989 Southern Forest Products Association Buyer's Guide is free from the SFPA, Box 52468, New Orleans, La.70152.

Garage Guide

An 8-p. circular on planning garages, carports and driveways is $l from the Small Homes Council-Building Research Council, University of Illinois, I E. St. Mary's Rd., Champaign, 11.61820.

Safety Standards

The January 1989 catalog of safety standards is free from Underwriters Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Rd., Northbrook. Il. 60062.

Board Footage Table

A table with easy directions to calculate board footages of lumber is free for the first l0 copies, 150 ea. thereafter from the Western Wood Products Association, Yeon Building, 522 SW 5th Ave., Portland, Or. 97204.

Wordg of Warnlng: Chemicals

The 20-p. "Chemical Hazards in Building Materials" is $8 from the Alliance of American Insurers, l50l Woodfield Rd., Ste. 400 W., Schaumburg,11.60173.

Taxing New Lawg

State Fuel Use Taxes: .4 Guide for Motor Carriers is $35 from the American Trucking Associations, 2200 Mill Rd., Alexandria, Ya. 22314.

Gravel +Foam:Roof

A 4-p. brochure on a new gravel/ foam roofing system is free from North Carolina Foam Industries. Box 1528, Mt. Airy, N.C. 27030.

Put Up With lt

A 52-p. videotape on installing tile and suspended ceilings is available from Armstrong, PO Box 3001, Lancaster, Pa. 17604.

Fancy Cabinetry

Information on new leaded glass door cabinet designs is available from The Cabinet Door Co., by calling (800) 8322322.

Sentry Slide Rule

A slide rule summarizing Sentry Hardware distributors' merchandising/ advertising systems (form SSR) is free from Sentry, 2700 River Rd., Des Plaines, Il. 60018.

Radon Below?

A 20-p. report on radon reduction in wood floor and wood foundation systems is $3 plus $1.50 shipping from the National Forest Products Association, 1250 Connecticut Ave., NW, Ste. 200, Washington, D.C. 20036.

Advertising

ri:lli;:ii:ililtiiiliiiiiii:','ii:t:.i:t:fiiliii1ii:iii:i::,:,!lii:ii:ii:ii:ii:iii:!:ilrj!:li!:!:iiiri::::il::i:ii:iirii:ii:i

LUMBER PLACENIENTS NATIONWIDE: I place professionals in the lumber industry. I respect your need for the rightjob in the right geographical location at the right compensation. Fee paid. Strictest confidence. (800) 54559OO _ 24 HOUR MESSAGE CENTER. Mike Owen, VP Lumber Division, ProCounsel. Mv desk ohone is (214) 385-9076.

Twenty-five (25) words for $21. Each additional word 700. Phone number counts as one word. Address counts as six words. Headlines and centered copy ea. line: $6. Box numbers and special borders: $6 ea. Col. inch rate: $45 camera ready. $50 ifwe set the type. Names of advertisers using a Address replies to box number shown in ad in care of Building Products Digest, 4500 Campus Dr., Suite 480, Newport Beach, Ca. 92660. Make checks payable to Cutler Publishing, Inc. Mail copy to above address or call (714) 852-1990. Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month. PAYMENT MUST ACCOMPANY COPY unless you have established credit with us.

iii:!:ii:!:iiiiiii:;:i!:i:ii::,:riiiiiii:iliiiiiiii:iiiililiii:ii::ll:tL*tiili;;Ii:iijl:iili:iitiii+;tilf.'lf.ii.,i,:ii

You've Got Nothing To Lose By Talking To Me

JOE MAUGANS

BUILDING

"Recruitingfor the Forest Products Industry"

SAN

Distribu. tion yard industrial sales.

MIDWEST: Distribution yard manager; well established, ereat opportunity.

SOUTHEAST: IndustriaVspecialty traders; growing old-line company, good reputation.

INTERESTED

For sidings call Doug Willis. For spa and sauna items contact Phil Heim or Doug Willis. Call Product Sales Co. (714) 9988680. Please see our ad on naee 4.

MID-ATLANTIC: Western cedar sales .& purchasing; western pine sales & pur, chasing; good salary, bonus, profit shaie, retirement.

7-800-426-4772

w205-987-7582

CONFIDENTIAL INOUIRIES _ FEE PAID

especially

Redwood Gan be sophisticated

FTEDWOOD'S natural attributes flmake it a natural product to recommend for use in the humid areas of the south.

Story at a Glance

Ways to sell durability and beauty of redwood redwood blends with innovative technoF ogy and classic architec* turc.. showcase home de monstrates qualities that make rcdwood a top southem seller

If your customers perceive redwood as only being suitable for a rustic structure or a painted victorian, you can show them the New Southern Home built in Alaqua, Fl., as a showcase for the 1988 Southeast Builders Conference. The 3,836 sq. ft. house was designed to illustrate how contemporary ideas can be combined with classic design details to create timeless quality.

Paint grade (B grade) redwood was especially milled in a lx8 shiplap pattern for the exterior.

Valued at $1.2 million, the sophisticated home was designed to fit an imaginary family's needs. "lt provides a refuge, a retreat, as well as a uniquely personal place to entertain," notes the project manager.

More than 13,000 people visited when the home was open to the public. Located in an area developed in conjunction with three Gary Player championship golf courses, the New Southern Home is one of several houses incorporating redwood.

Builder Marc Sharp, who says he builds only with redwood, constructed this home and one for Gary Player as well as others in the development. He is full of praise for redwood, which he considers ideal for Florida's climate. He appreciates the beauty as well as the workability and durability. "l almost cried when they covered that beautiful redwood with paint," he said.

In fact. he liked the home well enough to acquire it for his personal residence.

DbGtbuton

IIORTTIEII'I

GEORGE MCQT'ESTEN CO.

Iron Hor:c hrk North Blllcrlca, MA 01862 (617) 66$343s

MIDSTAtrE LUMBER CO.

2OO lndustrbl Parlarray Branchh.ug, N 08876 (2Or) 72'4eOO

SOUTHEAST FTJRMAN LT'MBER CO.

8960 H.n&cls L.n. Annapolls Junctlon, MD 20701 (3o0792-22s

EARL RAIFORD LT'MBER CO. PO. Bor 5498 Asfievlltc NC 28813 (704) 2s3s667

EFPERSON LI'MBER SALES. INC. PO. Bo:r 1559 Statesvttle, NC28677 (70418734321

WOODFORD PLY\ilOOD

P.O. Bo:( l73l

Albany, GA 31703 (912) 8834900

Bnnches ln Alabama, Georglia & Florida

T.f,trE SNTES

EMPIRE WHOLESATE PO. Bo:( 249 Alqon, OH zl43OO (216) 4344s45

DETRON FOREST PRODUSTS 35135 Glendale Livonia, M zAlSO (3r3) s22O6lO BOEHM.MADISEN

Nl6 W22IOO Jericho Dr. Waukesha, WI 53186 (4t4) V44ffi

I'PFER UID WEST

CANTON LI.'MBER CO. PO. Box 9328 Mtnneapolis, MN 5il4G9328 (6t2) 42}140p

WEST ATI<OAST FOREST PRODUCTS. INC.

P.O. Box M Chinq CA 91708 (7r4) 627€5sl

AIL-COAST FOREST PRODUCTS. INC. End of Railroad Aw.

P.O. Box 9 Clqrcrdale, CA 9542m9 (7O7) 8944281

CEDAR WEST CORP PO. Box 5224 Denner, CO W2l7 (303) 294-9lor

siding was

milled lot New Southern Home.

How to know when youte madethe gradl,

ay back in 1754, a Scandinavian named Swan Alverdson devised the first set of workable lumber grading rules. And ever since, builders. architects. distributors, and other purchasers of commercial lumber have relied on uniform grading to telL them which lumber is right for which application. The consumer may never need to know. but the pros sure do.

Let's tdk shop.

Uniform grading is the "common language" of the lumber industry. It sets a standard among mills that manufacture similar species. And it gives buyers and sellers of lumber a point of reference for negotiating prices and placing orders important, because the vast majority of made over the phone-or over the inspection of the product.

, That's today's sales fax-without

ate visual

Lumber manufacturers voluntarily adhere to standards set forth by the American Lumber Standards Committee, and published under procedures established by the U.S. Department of Commerce. The various regional associations, including \Western Vood Products Association and \7est Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau, further define these standards into specific grading rules for use by their member mills. Not surprisingly, different sets of rules have been developed for grading framing and finish lumber Framing lumber rules place top priority on the strength of the product. For finish lumber, appearance is the prime consideration, and the lumber is graded based on the appearance of the best face.

Grading is an art.

Despite all the rules, lumber grading is still more of an art than an exact science. Since appearance grading is based on a visual inspection of each board, the experience of the individual grader is a major factor.

To compensate for the "grader factor," the industry's grading rules have set the acceptable "below grade" tolerance at five percent per unit. P&M Cedar prides itself on maintaining an even stricter tolerance on the percentage of lower-grade material permitted within its CedarPro@ product lines.

CedarPro's Stricter Grading.

P&M Cedar's grading rules for kiln-dried CedarPro Incense Cedar Siding and Decking are stricter than industry standards. Because today's customers demand more. In an in-depth market survey, users and consumers of siding and decking products told us that thev want Droducts with a premium installed appearance plus consistency from unit to unit.

P&M responded. Vith quality-oriented manufacturing processes to ensure premium finished ^ppe raitce. And a more stringent set of finished-product grading rules to ensure customer satisfaction. Each CedarPro Siding and Decking product has been developed to satisfy the performance requirements of a specific application, rather than a general grade rule. These stricter, intended-use standards give CedarPro users the benefits of predictable performance, simplified installation, less on-the-job waste, and natural beauty that will last a lifetime.

Make the grade.

To earn high marks with your customers, put the complete line of CedarPro products to the test. Just contact your CedarPro retailer or distributor, or call P&M Cedar Products today at2091957-6360.

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Blll Jemlson, 54, former manager of Barton's of Dermott, Ar., died Jan. 12, 1989, in Fort Smith, Ar.

A native of Wister, Ok., he joined E.C. Barton & Co. in 1957, working at the McGehee and Gould. Ar., yards before managing the Dermott location. He left the company in 1979 to open his own salvage business,

Mr. Jamison is survived by his widow, Marsha, two sons, one daughter and one granddaughter.

Henry Fulton, chairman of the board of Murray Lumber Co., Murray, Ky., died Jan. 27, 1989, while

re,cuperating lrom open heart surgery in Louisville, Ky. He was 68.

A native of Murray, he joined his father in the company in the mid1940s, eventually succeeding him as president and general manager. He semi-retired in 1985.

Mr. Fulton is survived by his widow. Sadie. his mother. one sister. two daughters, and two grandchildren.

Ralph F. Oliver, 51, a lumber salesman at KCS Lumber Co., ldabel. Ok.. died after a heart attack Dec. 23, 1988, in Tulsa, Ok.

Born in Fountain Hill. Ar.. he managed Reynolds-Wilson Lumber Co., ldabel, from 1968 to 1980 and the ldabel Holiday Inn from 1980 to 1985 before joining KCS Lumber.

Mr. Oliver is survived by his widow, Monah, his parents, one brother. and three children.

Decllnlng Startr Forccart

Fewer housing starts are predicted for 1989 due to declining housing demand and rising interest rates, according to forecasts made during the National Association of Home Builders recent Atlanta, Ga., annual convention.

Starts are expected to fall to 1,380.000. down 6.70h from 1988's 1,480,000 units. By midyear, mortgag,e rates are predicted to climb to I106 to I1.50i for 30-year fixed-rate loans, up from the current 10.920/0.

Despite the housing activity decline, the projection would represent the seventh straight year of more than one million starts, the longest post-war housing recovery.

Startg Hlt 6-Year-Low

Pregsure Treatlng Innovatlon

In what may be the first major innovation in the pressure treating industry since the introduction of fire retardant wood, CSI, Charlotte, N.C., has developed a long lasting water repellent wood.

Although typical CCA treated wood will resist rot, decay and termites, it has sometimes been plagued by warping, checking and splitting caused by repeated absorp-

Dcalcn Llrt Populrr Prolcctr

Kitchens and bathrooms are the remodeling project of the moment in many southern areas.

"Bathroom remodeling, interior paint jobs and redecorating have to be the most popular projects now," said Mark Pollock, a manager at Builders Square in Daytona Beach, Fl. "lnstalling ceiling fans is the number one priority in redecorating schemes."

Helpful Redwood Use Tips

Almost 20 brochures and leaflets, most in handsome colors, are available from the California Redwood Association.

They also have a deck design

tion and loss of water. The new CSI product, UltraWood, is guaranteed to maintain water repellency for 50 years, unlike brush-on water repellents which offer only a temporary remedy and require annual applications.

UItraWood is now available in Virginia and Texas, distributed in the Greater Houston, Tx., market by Eastex Forest Products. Houston.

Housing starts dipped 8.2V0 in 1988 to their lowest level in six years, as last year's 1.48 million units neared the 1.06 million figure built during the recession year of 1982.

Manager Jim Holmes at Scotty's in South Daytona, Fl., agrees that outfitting bathrooms and kitchens with new fixtures and repainting are popular. Then he adds, "But not as popular as putting on a new roof."

Robert Gilbreth, Central Florida regional manager for Home Depot, lists kitchen and bath remodeling as the hottest projects. "Ceramic tile, new lighting and mini blinds are the hot products for thesejobs," he said.

kit, construction tipsheets, slide show, video and a poster available for dealers and their customers by writing The California Redwood Association, 405 Enfrente Dr., Suite 200, Novato, Ca. 94949 or telephone @|il 382-0662.

When you wantthe handsome, long-lasting q ual ity of redwood lumber, come to Georgia-Pacific. We offer everything from garden grades, rustic sidings and trim to architectural grades of Bee, Clear and Clear all-heart. Our dedication to a Dry Program means more choices for you!

Our Common Program is both S-Dry (190/o or less) and green.We do it naturallyon our ocean bluffs with cool breezes off the blue Pacific. And as afinal assurance of quality, G-P is a member of the California Redwood Association and the Redwood Inspection Service. So look for the grade stamp on our lumber.

Get the powerful advantages that only the finest in redwood lumbercan provide. Rely on Georgia-Pacific to deliverthe Redwood or Douglas Fir you need. Both are available through our Fort Bragg mill-or, through our extensive distribution network. To find out more, simply call the Fort Bragg mill at7O71964-0281.