Sara Graves • sgraves@526mediagroup.com COLUMNISTS
James Olsen, Kim Drew, Claudia St. John CONTRIBUTORS
Matt Brown, Jeff Easterling, Joe K. Elling, Paige McAllister, Bill Parsons, Belinda Remley
ADVERTISING SALES
(714) 486-2735
Chuck Casey • ccasey@526mediagroup.com
Nick Kosan • nkosan@526mediagroup.com
John Haugh • jhaugh@526mediagroup.com
DIGITAL SUPPORT
Katherine Williams kwilliams@526mediagroup.com
CIRCULATION/SUPPORT info@526mediagroup.com
A PUBLICATION OF 526 MEDIA GROUP, INC.
151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Phone (714) 486-2735
CHANGE OF ADDRESS Send address label from recent issue, new address, and 9-digit zip to address below. POSTMASTER Send address changes to Building Products Digest, 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Building Products Digest (USPS 225) is published monthly at 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 by 526 Media Group, Inc. Periodicals Postage paid at Santa Ana, CA, and additional post offices. It is an independently-owned publication for building products retailers and wholesale distributors in 37 states East of the Rockies. Copyright®2025 by 526 Media Group, Inc. Cover and entire contents are fully protected and must not be reproduced in any manner without written permission. All Rights Reserved. We reserve the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter, and assumes no liability for materials furnished to it. Opinions expressed are those of the authors or persons quoted and not necessarily those of 526 Media Group, Inc. Articles are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial or business management advice.
Volume 44 • Number 7
Update your subscription
•
•
•
•
•
A FINAL CAMPFIRE
------------ BY PATRICK ADAMS
WHEN WE FIRST STARTED camping as a family, my daughter was still little, and my son hadn’t even been born. I wanted something we could do together—a way to unplug and reconnect, even if only for a weekend at a time.
Those early trips were something special. We camped with a large group of friends—all law enforcement and military families. During the day, we’d explore with the kids, teach them basic survival skills, and go on adventures that, by today’s standards, might raise eyebrows (or trigger child endangerment hotlines). At night, once the kids were asleep, we’d gather around the fire, swapping stories—the kind that grow bigger and braver with each retelling, our own version of “fish tales.”
We started out with a small trailer. It was simple, cozy, and gave us just what we needed. As our adventures expanded, so did our family—first with the birth of our son, then with the addition of another dog. That meant a bigger trailer, and eventually another one after that. But while our trailers got larger, our circle got smaller. With every trip, another friend would quietly admit it was their last. Their kids had outgrown it, sports schedules were too hectic, and keeping an RV for one or two trips a year just didn’t make sense anymore.
Those rowdy campfire circles shrank until, one year, it was just us. The past couple of years, we’ve camped alone as a family. Still fun, but different. The kids no longer have a pack to run with. Most of our time is now spent doing—prepping, cooking, cleaning—no more shared tasks or helping hands. The community that made it feel like something more had faded.
This spring, over dinner, I asked the usual question: “Where are we camping this summer? Back to our
favorite spot?” But this time, there were no eager smiles or excited recollections. Just silence. My son eventually muttered, “Sure.” My daughter asked if she could bring a friend. My wife simply shrugged. For me, it felt like hearing about a death for the first time.
And I get it—they’re right. My daughter’s now in high school and volleyball has become a year-round commitment. At 14, her social life seems to outrank even the most important plans. My son is only 8, and just starting to really enjoy camping. And my wife—well, she’s been a saint for going along with it all these years, even if her idea of “roughing it” leans more toward room service than roasting marshmallows.
So this summer will be our final trip. A short drive to a quiet beach in central California, one last outing before I put the RV up for sale. It’s a bittersweet goodbye. Camping has been my therapy—and sharing nature with my family has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. I’m not sure what the next chapter looks like, but I’m guessing it’ll involve fewer pine needles and more plush pillows.
Still, whatever the next chapter holds, I’m grateful we get to turn the page together. People always say time goes fast, but I don’t think anything makes it speed by quite like being a parent.
So this summer, wherever you are—take a moment to slow down. Listen to the wind in the trees. Breathe deep. Count your blessings. And treasure the chapter you’re in.
As always, I’m humbled and grateful to serve this great industry.
PATRICK S. ADAMS, Publisher/President padams@526mediagroup.com
REDWOOD
Like the foods we buy, when it comes to decking, we want natural and real. Redwood is always available in abundance of options. So stock the shelves! Unlike mass-produced and inferior products, Redwood is strong, reliable and possesses many qualities not found in artificial products. They maintain temperatures that are comfortable in all climates.
Redwood Empire stocks several grades and sizing options of Redwood.
ALTERED STATES THE NEW NORMAL FOR MODIFIED WOOD
------------ BY SARA GRAVES
ONCE CONSIDERED a fringe product, modified wood is gaining new traction in the building materials supply chain. As the outdoor living sector grows and consumer demand shifts toward natural, sustainable alternatives, distributors and dealers are taking a second look at modified wood.
Tracking Market Momentum
“There is a heavy increase in the thermally modified lumber market,” says Claus Staalner, owner of American Wood Technology in Jefferson, Ga., a company that manufactures hydro-thermo modification equipment. He notes a growing interest among North American lumber producers.
“We have seen in the past predominantly hardwood being thermally modified, which obviously lent itself very well to the North American market from a raw material standpoint,” continues Staalner, who has been involved with thermal modification for over 25 years. “However, we are now seeing a trend toward softwood being used.”
“We’re crushing it in the Northeast,” adds Steve Getsiv, CEO of Nova USA Wood Products, Forest Grove, Or. He says it’s mostly been siding, paneling, soffit, trim—anywhere you’d normally see western red cedar being used—but not decking.
Product Stability
Thermally modified wood is incredibly stable, contends Lawrence van Kleef, product manager of Nova’s thermally modified Ambara line. “You can wrap posts and beams, and it stays dead flat. I’ve wrapped 12x12 posts with 3/8”-thick thermally modified wood. It’s just incredible.”
Many retailers and wholesalers are already sold. “Every board is clean, flat, and straight. It installs very easily,” says Ed Mikowski, owner of Windsor, Ca.-based Mount Storm Forest Products, which has carried Thermory products for over a decade. “It is very stable and does not shrink.”
Price Perceptions
Yet, some suppliers remain leery. Chris Brown, executive vice president at Culpeper Wood Preservers, acknowledges the buzz but remains cautious. “Thermally treated wood is slow to gain momentum. Right now, it’s a very small part of the market,” he says, adding that builders continue to prioritize performance, cost, and availability—areas that he believes pressure-treated wood offers “the most practical and proven choice.”
Brown notes that price continues to be a sticking point: “Modified wood typically costs more than both
Photo courtesy of Maximo Thermowood
PIONEER MILLWORKS just introduced Abodo Vulcan thermally modified decking and siding—durable, sustainable alternatives to vinyl and cement, crafted from FSC-certified radiata pine with Class 1 durability.
composite and pressure-treated wood.”
Van Kleef says there’s a misconception that thermally modified wood is always expensive, but now the category includes affordable options that compete with both composites and high-grade softwoods.
NOVA USA Wood Products’ thermally modified Ambara is used here as post and beam wrap. The 1x8 and 1x10 boards are screwed, plugged and then finished with ExoShield Clear, providing a more stable replacement for cedar.
Category Growth
Kevin Kilpatrick, chief marketing officer at Lumber Plus, argues that thermally modified wood like its Maximo Thermowood “has more stability and workability in cutting and fastening—all with a natural aesthetic that
Every day should feel like an adventure. MoistureShield® is the only high-performance composite decking engineered to deliver 360-degree protection, 365 days a year. So you can be one with nature, no matter what the day brings.
OutsideTheEveryday.com
Increased Demand
is difficult to mimic by composites and pressure-treated wood.”
Still, the broader market signals potential growth. According to DataHorizzon Research, the global deck modified wood market was valued at $0.8 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $1.95 billion by 2033, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% from 2025 to 2033. Driving this trend are sustainability preferences, new technologies, and code updates focused on performance and environmental impact.
Kilpatrick believes there will be very strong growth in this category especially with more technology advancements, accessibility and affordable options. He notes cladding, soffits and ceilings will help contractors diversify their offerings.
Market Stabilization
“The challenges are becoming less and less in terms of logistics as more modification manufacturers are coming out of the woodwork each year in North America,” says Jon Witt, business development executive and technical advisor for CUTEK, which specializes in wood protection products. “As more enter into the category, everyone will work harder to capture a bit more of the market share, making pricing a little more competitive.”
“We’ve had a huge ‘mushrooming’ explosion of people promoting various products,” says van Kleef. “It’s going to narrow down to a healthy number, whatever that is, of varying products that are actually holding the market and then you’ll get a stable market.”
Chris Bouchard, director of North American ThermoWood sales for BPWood, believes modified wood products will grow significantly over the next five to 10 years, as sustainability continues to be a key consumer preference and construction practice. Ongoing strategic partnerships in the market will also support this shift. He says education, awareness campaigns, and proof points will be essential in driving adoption, addressing misconceptions about costs, and highlighting modified wood’s long-term value.
“It’s not about replacing tropical hardwoods altogether,” adds Getsiv. “They’re definitely going to take a good spot in the market as things kind of crystallize—which brands and which products are the most suitable for distribution and do the best in the market.”
Increased demand may also result in expanded distribution channels, positioning modified wood as a staple in home improvement retailers and builder supply chains, Bouchard says.
Design Appeal
Architectural appeal plays a role, too. As seen with brands like ThermoWood from Belgium-based LDCwood, modified wood brings a design-forward aesthetic that fits modern builds and biophilic design trends. New profiles, colors and grain patterns allow dealers to present the material as a premium alternative that stands out among tropical hardwoods, standard cedar, or pressure-treated boards.
“ThermoWood provides the strength and elegance typically associated with tropical hardwoods without the related concerns,” says Bouchard.
Van Kleef adds that as builders become more aware of the product’s stability and sustainability, it will become a viable option, even for customers who previously preferred composite.
With the summer building season in full swing and consumers more attuned to sustainability and design than ever before, the question may not be whether modified wood deserves shelf space, but whether you’re prepared to sell it when your customers ask. BPD
CUTEK, which specializes in wood protection products, expects continuing growth for modified wood.
ABOVE GROUND OR GROUND CONTACT? THAT IS STILL THE QUESTION
------------ BY BELINDA REMLEY
EVEN THOUGH two decades have passed since the wood treating industry voluntarily chose to move wood treatments for residential applications away from the traditional preservative called chromated copper arsenate (CCA) to newer preservatives such as micronized copper azole (MCA), there remains confusion about how to properly choose wood treated to match with its intended application. The question of whether to use Above Ground or Ground Contact treated wood has been ongoing for all of those 20+ years of new innovation.
Yet even though they may be daunted by the choice of which to buy, consumers still overwhelmingly pick beautiful, natural preserved wood for many outdoor living projects. Hundreds of thousands of preserved wood decks, fences, and other structures adorn backyards from coast to coast, giving homeowners extra space to play, relax and entertain.
“Pressure-treated lumber is chosen for its durability and its natural beauty, which is often mimicked by manufactured backyard materials,” says Jay Hilsenbeck, global product director and North American marketing director for Arxada. “But, why build with something that can only aspire to be wood, when you can build affordable, beautiful and long-lasting projects with the real thing?”
With backyard contractors choosing pressure-treated lumber for nearly 60% of their projects, it’s clear that
professionals and do-it-yourselfers agree—preserved wood is the way to go. The most popular of those outdoor living projects is decks, but consumers also seek to build smaller, less involved projects such as picnic tables, benches, fences, landscape features, and raised beds for gardens.
Customers, whether they are seasoned contractors or novice DIYers, need guidance to choose the right treated wood for their projects. That purchase is the key to building outdoor projects that stand the test of time, but choosing can be daunting. How does a buyer know what kind of treated wood is appropriate for their intended application?
Selection and Use of Pressure-Treated Lumber.
Whether building a deck’s understructure or adding the final touches such as railing or built-in seating to a project, selecting the right treated wood for each application will help it last longer. In recent years, the treated wood industry led by the American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) has worked together to defined more clear guidelines for choosing the right wood for each application. Those guidelines, indicated on end tags found on every piece of treated lumber, inform the buyer of the retention level (0.060 and 0.15 pcf) and the use category (Above Ground or Ground Contact). The required retention depends upon the severity of the exposure conditions of the wood during its service.
According to Hilsenbeck, choosing the right wood for its intended use is imperative. “Most consumers are in the market to purchase either Above Ground or Ground Contact preserved wood for their project. Ground Contact preserved wood is treated to a higher retention level than Above Ground,” he explains. “That simply means Ground Contact preserved wood has more preservative in it to offer necessary protection for more demanding end uses like raised beds, landscape retaining walls, or the structural components of a deck. While it’s possible to use Ground Contact treated wood in above ground applications, the reverse is not true. Because of this, it’s reliable advice to consider Ground Contract treated wood to be suitable as a general use product. That’s why some retailers carry only Ground Contact wood.”
Wood treated for Above Ground use is intended for parts of a project that are at least 6" above the ground, where wood dries easily, and where the wood is well-ventilated around all boards. Examples are elevated decking, railings, built-in deck benches, and fence pickets.
As Hilsenbeck explains, Ground Contact treated wood is versatile enough to be used in any application; however, it must be used in applications where the wood
• will come in contact with or be within 6" of the ground or fresh water
• is critical to the structure and/or it would be difficult to repair or replace
• is exposed to harsh conditions (even if above ground)
such as prolonged contact with soil, vegetation, sprinklers, etc.
Examples include deck joists, beams, posts, stair stringers, landscaping items, and raised bed gardens.
“An easy rule of thumb is to remember if the project is in contact with the ground or fresh water or built in a manner that does not allow the wood to easily dry, Ground Contact treated wood must be used,” Hilsenbeck says.
Once the right wood is chosen, building can begin. Pressure-treated lumber can be used in construction at any time of the year. Wood is a versatile material that can be easily cut and shaped on site. And, the leftover wood from a large project can be repurposed for an additional, small project.
Got Extra Wood?
So, when your deck project is complete, what happens to the leftover wood? For the cost of just a little time, a contractor can add value to a customer’s project. Because wood is flexible and adaptable, the extra pressure-treated lumber from a larger project can be used to create an additional perk for customers, giving them the finishing touch on their outdoor oasis.
A raised bed garden, for example, is the second most popular backyard project. This can be completed quickly and easily as an added bonus for a homeowner to cultivate and enjoy for many years to come. BPD
– Belinda Remley has been promoting the wood industry for more than 30 years. She is a marketing communications professional with Arxada, a leader in wood preservation and the preservative manufacturer behind Wolmanized Outdoor Wood (www. wolmanizedwood.com).
ABOVE GROUND treated wood (upper photo) can be used for decking, railings and accessories, while GROUND CONTACT treated wood (lower) should be used for understructure such as ledger boards, joists and posts.
UNCERTAINTY CLOUDS OUTLOOK FOR RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION
------------
BY JOE K. ELLING
PROJECTIONS OF homebuilding and other end-use markets driving the demand for wood products always carry a degree of uncertainty. The uncertainty arises from assumptions concerning the decisions of policymakers at all levels of government and the Federal Reserve.
With this in mind, the degree of uncertainty for the next two years is high. The high level of uncertainty stems from the new administration’s decision to impose tariffs at levels not seen in close to 100 years and the on-and-off nature of their implementation. In fact, since 1950, the U.S. trade policy has been to reduce tariffs (see Figure 1 below). As of mid-May, the average effective tariff rate on imported goods stands at 16.4%.
Compounding the disruption to trade is U.S. fiscal policy, with the bond market signaling concerns about deficits.
The broad-based tariffs create uncertainty for several reasons. For example, there is a risk of retaliatory actions taken by foreign nations to limit U.S. exports to their countries. The esoteric nature of the administration’s implementation of its trade policy compounds the uncertainty, as it is challenging to develop and execute long-term plans due to the lack of clarity on the desired outcome. Additionally, there is uncertainty surrounding the extension of the 2017 tax cuts and the implications for federal government deficits in 2026 and beyond. Through April, the budget deficit is on a path to exceed nearly $2 trillion for fiscal year 2025, which ends on September 30.
Measuring Uncertainty
We regularly see forecasts in the business media that state the probability of an event occurring with respect to
the economy. It is unclear how that probability number is derived. Three economists have developed an Economic Policy Uncertainty Index to help the business media and the general public understand the degree of uncertainty surrounding policy discussions at a given point in time and how that uncertainty will impact the economy. The methodology for constructing the index is solid.
As shown above in Figure 2, the confusion created by the imposition of tariffs and the debate in Congress regarding taxes and spending is substantial.
The surge in uncertainty impacts the economic outlook because many businesses are taking a wait-and-see stance in making major investments in plant and equipment. The same holds for households. Since the discussion of tariffs began, consumer sentiment has returned to the level last seen in 2020, driven by the COVID-19 outbreak (Figure 3 below). Survey respondents believe that imposing tariffs
will put upward pressure on prices, and incomes will not keep pace. In turn, consumers believe it is best to delay making big-ticket purchases.
Weaker business and consumer sentiment is expected to weigh on the economy through the rest of 2025 and carry into 2026. Weaker sentiment suggests economic growth of 1% or less for the next two years and rising unemployment.
U.S. Affordability Challenge Through 2026
Consistent with the uncertainty seen by the respondents to the University of Michigan consumer sentiment survey, respondents to Fannie Mae’s survey on homebuying conditions say it is not a good time to buy a home. As shown above in Figure 4, less than 25% said it is the right time to buy a home for a home purchase. This has been the case since March 2022, when the rate on a 30-year fixedrate mortgage started its climb to the 6.5% to 7% range.
The primary driver of the belief that it is not a good time to buy is the affordability challenge potential homebuyers face. From 2021 to 2025, rising home prices combined with higher 30-year fixed mortgage rates have doubled the income required to qualify for a mortgage for a median-priced existing home under traditional lending rules (Figure 5). In 2026, the rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is likely to run at or above 6.5%, indicating there will not be meaningful improvement in the near term.
Figure 6 (see next page) shows the share of married couples in first-time homebuying age groups who qualify to buy a median-priced home. The data runs through 2023, as the household income data from the Census Bureau is not available until later this year. Average hourly earnings in 2024 and 2025 through April have not kept pace with the increase in home prices, meaning there has not been a meaningful increase in qualifying married couples. The
trend is expected to hold in 2026. Moody’s downgrade of U.S. government debt adds upside risk to long-term interest rates.
Lower Rents Needed to Attract Tenants
Lagging the boom in multifamily starts, completions since July 2024 have averaged a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 613,000 units (Figure 7). Completions have exceeded the absorption rate of new units, leading to a rise in the vacancy rate. The Census Bureau estimates the rental vacancy rate in the first quarter of 2025 was 8.2%, up from the 6.4% low for this cycle in fourth quarter 2021. The rise in the vacancy rate has driven apartment owners to offer incentives to attract new tenants. As shown in Figure 8, rents to attract new tenants in the first quarter of 2025 have fallen 2.2% compared with the first quarter of 2024. Seeing the relative weakness in rents, lending officers have been tightening their standards for issuing
new multifamily construction loans. Combined with higher interest rates, this has led to a decline in multifamily starts, which will result in a decline in completions into 2026.
Housing Starts Under 1.4 Million Through 2026
In 2024, housing starts totaled 1.367 million units, including 1.013 million single-family homes and 354,000 multifamily units. The affordability challenge will weigh on the demand for new homes, driving homebuilders to continue reducing the size of their homes and offering incentives to generate sales. Single-family starts are expected to be at or below 1 million units in 2025 and 2026. Multifamily starts are projected to average 375,000 in 2025 and 2026 (Figure 9). The sum is less than 1.4 million units, so 2025 and 2026 will feel a lot like 2024 in terms of wood products demand.
This level of construction will be insufficient to make a significant dent in the 3 million- to 7 million-unit housing shortage. It is not evident what steps policymakers at all levels of government will take to alleviate the shortage over the next five to 10 years. BPD
– Economist Joe K. Elling is APA market research director. He has over three decades of experience providing valuable insights to business decision-makers. Contact him at joe.elling@apawood.org
MASS TIMBER MOMENTUM
A LOOK AT U.S. DATA AND
BY BILL PARSONS
------------
MASS TIMBER is moving beyond early adoption and making its mark across a wide range of building types in the U.S. What was once a niche construction approach is now being considered more widely—especially in commercial, multi-family, and institutional sectors. As of March 2025, WoodWorks is tracking 2,427 mass timber projects in the U.S., 1,244 of which have been constructed1. That activity reflects more than curiosity—it signals a maturing market increasingly willing to invest in mass timber’s performance, aesthetics, and environmental advantages.
This growth includes an increasing number of repeatable, scalable models for design that streamline the development and construction process while adapting to regional needs. A standout example is the T3 office series from developer Hines. Short for Timber, Transit and Technology, T3 buildings follow a replicable model distinguished by sustainability, urban connectivity, and high-performance design. Hines has 27 T3 projects2, either built or in the pipeline, in cities including Minneapolis, Atlanta and Denver, helping to normalize mass timber for commercial office use and create a precedent for future projects. This kind of
TRENDS
repeatable concept reduces risk and uncertainty for supply chain partners, developers and design teams alike.
Additionally, major cities like New York, Boston and Atlanta have now supported multiple cohorts of mass timber accelerator programs, helping projects move from concept to construction and facilitating a pool of shared knowledge and best practices in their respective jurisdictions.
Establishing a prototype for mass timber commercial design is significant as interest grows across sectors. While early mass timber adoption was concentrated in office buildings, the trend has expanded into education, student housing, industrial facilities, and more. Many developers are also exploring hybrid systems—e.g., mass timber floor and roof systems with light-frame wood walls or a combination of wood and non-wood systems—to meet cost, code, or performance goals.
Transparency and data will remain essential as mass timber projects grow in numbers. WoodWorks tracks projects (updated quarterly on woodworks.org), distinguishing
(Continued on page 23)
T3 ATLANTA WEST MIDTOWN office buildings represent repeatable, scalable mass-timber projects that streamline the development and construction process. (Photo courtesy StructureCraft)
SMART, STRONG, GOOD LOOKING AND MASS
NATURAL BOARD FACE
Made from Oregon’s natural fiber, featuring small, closed knots typical of trees responsibly thinned from dense forests. Ripped into 9.5-inch boards to evoke the familiar, solid-sawn look of conventional CLT.
EDGE GRAIN
Have you seen the edge grain on LVL? Now imagine an appearance that showcases the rich complexity of the veneer layers that make up Mass Ply.
CLEAR BOARD FACE
Clear veneer is carefully selected and assembled for a cleaner aesthetic. With a mostly knot-free face, it is puttied, sanded, and then ripped into 9.5-inch boards, recreating the solid-sawn look of conventional CLT — but without the knots.
SHOU SUGI BAN CHAR
A traditional Japanese wood preservation technique, where the wood’s surface is charred to enhance durability and resistance to rot, insects, fire, and weather.
Things are looking good for next-gen Mass Ply building materials. Stronger by weight than concrete and steel, offering carbon sequestering benefits and versatile in both application and appearance, Freres’ Mass Ply is the smart choice any way you look at it.
APA RESEARCH CENTER OFFERS LEADING TESTING CAPABILITIES
BUILT IN 1969, APA – The Engineered Wood Association’s 42,000-sq. ft. facility has long been recognized as one of North America’s top engineered wood research centers. In 2019, the association made significant upgrades to the research and testing capabilities at its Tacoma, Wa., laboratory.
The upgrades ensure that it maintains that reputation while continuing to serve the industry as a leader in supporting the innovative design, development and end-use of code-compliant, energy-efficient structures built with engineered wood, mass timber and wood structural panels.
The lab expansion was built as an engineered wood showcase, with laminated veneer lumber purlins and studs, and glulam columns supporting a roof framed with long-span curved glulam beams. The glulam columns are also designed as dual function to support crane rails. The wall and roof diaphragm are sheathed with wood structural panels, while OSB lap siding makes up the exterior cladding.
The significant lab enhancements provide numerous benefits for the engineered wood industry, according to Eric Gu, vice president of APA’s Technical Services Division.
“The expansion of APA’s Tacoma laboratory represents a transformative moment for the association and the engineered wood industry as a whole,” Gu said. “With cutting-edge capabilities for full-scale structural testing and performance evaluation, we are empowering innovation in timber product development and design. These upgrades underscore APA’s leadership in advancing resilient, sustainable building systems that meet the demands of modern codes and construction practices.”
Extensive Renovations
The project was extensive. As part of the renovations, a section of the laboratory’s existing ceiling was raised from 24 ft. to 40 ft. in height. The near doubling in height enables APA staff to leverage the strong wall to test taller specimens and vertical assemblies.
“This update allows for full-size structure testing. That’s significant,” Gu said. “It provides a state-of-the-art research facility that supports structural testing from small-scale all the way to whole-house testing.” Results of these tests provide insight for APA staff to understand the performance of engineered wood products at the element, assembly and system levels.
APA – The Engineered Wood Association expanded its research center in Tacoma, Wa., to the benefit of the entire engineered wood industry.
The laboratory has a 4-ft.-thick reinforced strong floor, which provides a precision-level surface for reaction support and instrumentation mounting. The floor is reinforced with 28 tons of rebar. It’s made of 830 tons of concrete with 868 anchors at 2 ft. on center. Each anchor has a 100,000-lb.-force capacity, which means staff can coordinate tests simultaneously if needed.
Greater Efficiency
“The strong floor is 70 by 75, for a total of 5,250 sq. ft. The large format of the strong floor, coupled with dual overhead cranes, improves our lab testing efficiency,” Gu said. “And we have the versatility of coordinating multiple tests at the same time in the same area—thanks to its large size.”
APA’s lab also has 10 strong wall blocks with anchors. Gu said that was another improvement made possible by the near doubling of the ceiling height to almost 40 ft.
The lab is equipped with two 5-ton overhead cranes. These cranes make moving, lifting and maneuvering test objects much safer and more efficient, facilitating full-scale structural assembly testing.
“The two cranes allow for efficient flow of materials,” Gu said, “in receiving, assembly and final disassembly after testing. It’s all about safety and efficiency.”
The lab’s hydraulic actuator was upgraded from 55,000 lb.-force to 220,000 lb.-force. Gu said it’s another way APA expanded its testing capability for the industry.
“The larger capacity actuators and longer stoke cylinders allow us to test taller walls that require more stroke,” he said. “It also permits us to test more flexible walls like foam over wood structural panel wall assemblies.”
MASS TIMBER MOMENTUM
(Continued from page 20)
between projects in design and built to give a realistic view of market progress and avoid confusion between what’s proposed and what’s complete. This clarity is essential in a market where many proposed projects stall due to financing, shifting priorities, or lack of experience with the materials. While not all projects move forward, the steady increase in completed buildings shows that mass timber is gaining traction.
To facilitate open access to project data and build a robust network of professionals, WoodWorks hosts the WoodWorks Innovation Network (WIN), a user-generated platform of mass timber and innovative light-frame projects in North America (and beyond), as well as product manufacturers and suppliers. In Q1 of 2025 alone, 122 new projects were added to the WIN map3. This level of public access to real-time market information helps the industry coordinate, plan, and scale. It also builds confidence, ensuring that interest in mass timber is matched by a realistic understanding of the learning curve associated with these projects.
Opportunities for support and education are essential. WoodWorks provides free project assistance to support project teams considering wood and has worked with over 60 training centers and universities to educate tradespeo-
One aspect of the lab that hasn’t changed: its staff comprised of highly educated engineered wood experts. Among the APA lab employees are PEs, doctorates in timber engineering, master’s in wood science and PhDs in civil engineering. Their collective knowledge brings tremendous value to association members and the greater engineered wood products industry. BPD
– For additional details on the testing capabilities of APA’s research center, visit the APA website (www.apawood.org).
ple and construction managers on mass timber installation and coordination. In addition, WoodWorks continues to grow the body of publicly available technical design resources and project data to help the industry understand what’s possible with wood, plan strategically, and demonstrate market viability to decision-makers.
Ultimately, mass timber is gaining momentum not just because of what it offers structurally, but because it meets the needs of modern construction. Mass timber offers a compelling solution in a market looking for sustainable alternatives, regional economic development opportunities, and design flexibility. With stronger supply chains and proven project models, it’s poised to become a long-term staple of American construction. BPD
– Bill Parsons, PE, is the chief operating officer at WoodWorks – Wood Products Council, a non-profit organization providing free project support for commercial and multi-family mass timber and light-frame wood buildings, a nationwide education program, and a wide range of published resources.
[1] Market Trends Map: Snapshot of Mass Timber Projects in the U.S. WoodWorks – Wood Products Council, 2025. Retrieved from https://www. woodworks.org/resources/mapping-mass-timber
[2] T3: Timber, Transit, Technology. Hines. Retrieved from https://www. hines.com/t3
AS PART of the renovation, a section of the ceiling was nearly doubled in height to accommodate testing of taller specimens and vertical testing.
WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS’ ROLE IN THE LATEST ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE
------------ BY MATT BROWN
IT SEEMS NOT that long ago, energy efficiency was far from top-of-mind among professionals in the construction community. Builders were more concerned about homebuyer-pleasing amenities and other issues, that at the time, were likely more important to clients.
But that focus has changed in recent decades. Today, numerous surveys show that energy efficiency is a top concern for builders and their clients. Energy-efficiency requirements are being added to state and local construction codes, making their use mandatory.
However, energy-efficiency improvements can add costs to construction projects. And the payback for efficiency upgrades can, in some cases, take years, if not decades.
But there is a cost-effective and energy-efficient building option available on most projects: wood structural panels.
Plywood and oriented strand board (OSB) structural panels offer builders flexibility when it comes to meeting the requirements of the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The 2024 IECC puts options into the code for how developers design the building thermal envelope. It allows builders to more easily use wood structural panel walls compared with the 2021 version.
Walls fully sheathed with wood structural panels deliver strength and performance, often times at a lower cost than installing continuous insulation. Continuous insulation has been a part of the IECC since 2012, and APA led efforts to
have the ability to use wood structural panels inserted into the 2024 code.
Getting the Message
Builders’ organizations—and their members—are starting to get the message. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the Leading Builders of America (LBA) have worked to spread the word about these options. In fact, NAHB and LBA are encouraging state and local officials to consider updating code requirements to follow the 2024 IECC because of its flexibility.
Builders prefer the 2024 IECC over the 2021 version, because of the flexibility it allows in the design of the building thermal envelope. With wood structural panels, and often unlike continuous insulation, builders don’t have to add window and door extension jams or change foundation widths to allow airspace for brick walls. These all help mitigate the extra costs often associated with following the requirements of advanced energy codes like the IECC.
A New Path
This newfound focus on options and flexibility comes as builders and code officials switch from the longstanding “prescriptive path” to the “performance path” for code compliance. The prescriptive path dictates construction practices and materials when it comes to the structure’s thermal envelope. Under it, builders have few options in how they meet the code’s requirements. In contrast, the performance path provides builders with more choices—
PLYWOOD AND OSB can help builders save money while meeting code-mandated energyefficiency requirements.
such as wood structural panels—that may be less expensive. The only requirement is that structures still meet or exceed state or local efficiency and code requirements. More information is available in the APA publication The Performance Path to Energy Code Compliance
Builders are taking notice and changing their approach. According to LBA officials, a majority of U.S. new-home construction uses the performance path, not the prescriptive path, for code compliance. And that’s a major change from a decade or so ago, when only about 30% of builders in the market used the performance path.
The switch allows builders to mitigate costs while delivering superior energy efficiency in the homes they erect. Today, it’s not uncommon to see 3,000-sq. ft. or larger homes built to updated code standards that generate an average utility bill of only around $100 a month.
The 2024 IECC provides credits for HVAC systems and
other high-efficiency improvements that builders can use to install wood structural panel walls without continuous insulation.
The Future
It’s always tricky to predict where building codes and regulations will go from here. However, future code bodies will likely focus on renewable energy and net zero, which refers to the greenhouse gases put into the atmosphere being “zeroed out” by the greenhouse gas emissions removed from it. There’s not much more efficiency that can be rung out of the building thermal envelope.
But any time a building code has flexibility, it’s good for the industry, and maintaining that flexibility is key to helping builders keep costs down. BPD
– Matt Brown is APA director of energy policy and code in the association’s Market Access and Development Division. Contact him at matthew.brown@apawood.org.
NEW MASS TIMBER GUIDE BRIDGES THE GAP
THE AMERICAN Wood Council (AWC) has led adoption and acceptance for mass timber across the U.S. through resources, education and participation in the code development process. AWC was a key leader in the original research and development process that first led to the recognition of cross-laminated timber in the International Code Council’s (ICC) 2015 I-codes, and eventually the first recognition of mass timber construction types in the 2021 I-codes.
After the inclusion of mass timber construction types in the I-codes, AWC continued their efforts leading engagement and education for building officials and the fire service. AWC has led presentations on fire testing, mass timber codes and construction fire safety to fire service members across the nation and supported the work of the Construction Fire Safety Coalition.
The mass timber provisions have now been adopted in 40 states with AWC having directly supported adoption in many of them.
In the latest continuation of AWC’s work in mass timber, AWC released a Mass Timber Alternative Materials and Methods (AMM) Guide for use with the 2018 International Building Code (IBC). The AMM Guide helps clarify and support the review, permitting and approval of mass timber projects in jurisdictions that are using the 2018 IBC and have not yet adopted mass timber provisions of later editions of the IBC.
The AMM Guide is designed to help bridge the gap between the codes adopted in each state and the newer mass timber provisions in the 2024 IBC. Adopting the most recent edition of the Building Code, like the 2024 IBC, can be a slow multi-year process for states or jurisdictions. As a result, there is sometimes a gap between what is included in the currently
adopted code in a state and what is allowable based on the latest available ICC I-codes. The AMM Guide serves to fill that space by offering code provisions for jurisdictions without mass timber specific guidance.
According to AWC vice president of codes and standards Philip Line, this resource is for jurisdictions that have not yet adopted the latest I-codes, to help code officials establish clear requirements for approval of new mass timber building construction types (Type IV-A, IV-B, and Type IV-C) as AMM projects.
The new nationwide guide comes after the 2024 release of the Florida Mass Timber Alternative Materials and Methods (AMM) Guide, which was specifically designed to support mass timber projects under the 8th Edition of the Florida Building Code. The success of that guide and support for it by code officials in Florida led to the creation of the general Mass Timber AMM Guide
The Mass Timber AMM Guide joins the many other resources AWC has created along with their education programs that provide essential resources to code officials and promote timber as the sustainable and versatile building material it is.
The Mass Timber AMM Guide and the Florida AMM Guide are available on AWC’s website (awc.org). BPD
UPDATED GUIDE helps bridge the gap between building codes adopted in each state and the newer mass timber provisions in the 2024 IBC.
STRENGTHENING HOMES WITH RESILIENT DESIGN TECHNIQUES
------------ BY MATT BROWN
IT SEEMS NATURAL disasters—tornadoes, hurricanes, floods—are increasing in frequency and intensity every year. Even a “minor” incident can cause millions of dollars in damages. Architects, engineers, builders and communities seek construction practices that can help buildings withstand and adapt.
At APA – The Engineered Wood Association, we know that resilient construction techniques using engineered wood products can help meet these goals by incorporating our four resiliency pillars: structural resilience, hazard mitigation, sustainability/stewardship, and energy efficiency.
APA and our industry partners offer designers and builders numerous resources that provide guidance on incorporating these pillars.
Structural Resilience, which also encompasses seismic resilience, demonstrates the need for high-performance buildings that can withstand severe wind or seismic events. APA has information on installing bracing for high-wind events and how to maximize wall bracing using wood structural panels for continuously sheathed walls. Additionally, APA has resources on wall bracing for seismic incidents using force transfer around openings (FTAO) design methods.
Hazard Mitigation: For flood prevention, a part of hazard mitigation, APA offers information on raised wood floor systems, including case studies on their use. We explain how using flood dampers and crawl spaces can allow living
areas to stay dry even if a crawl space takes on water. The American Wood Council (AWC) offers several educational resources on structural and construction fire prevention.
Sustainability and Stewardship efforts in the construction industry date to the late 1980s and early 1990s. Sometimes called “green building,” there are programs that provide a way to quantify buildings’ environmental impacts. Examples include the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building rating program, National Green Building Standard (NGBS), and International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
At APA, we offer Green Verification Reports that help designers and building officials determine which engineered wood products qualify for points under these environmental building programs, which are increasingly mandated in public and private projects. Other good industry resources include WoodWorks’ Carbon Calculator, which helps designers estimate the amount of carbon stored in wood and greenhouse gas emissions avoided by not using steel or concrete. AWC has environmental product declarations (EPDs)—publications that help determine a wood product’s environmental performance through its lifecycle.
Energy Efficiency: As part of an overall push for greater energy efficiency, energy codes are growing in importance, with a focus on issues such as structural performance. APA is constantly expanding its resources in this area. We offer The Performance Path to Energy Code Compliance, a publication highlighting alternative ways of approaching construction requirements than the traditional prescriptive route, which dictates how code requirements should be met.
APA’s website, www.apawood.org, has information on all these topics and more. From engineering calculators to CAD details, APA has a wealth of complimentary tools and knowledge to share. Plus, it offers free technical support and guidance from engineered wood specialists who are experts in building and designing resilient structures with engineered wood products.
Among the free tools available at apawood.org are a Wall Bracing Calculator; Advanced Framing Method publications, case studies and a webinar; and Building for High Wind Resistance in Light-Frame Wood Construction Design Guide BPD
– Matt Brown is APA director of energy policy and code in the association’s Market Access and Development Division. Contact him at matthew.brown@apawood.org.
APA ADVISES that durable construction techniques should encompass the four pillars of resiliency.
BUILD LONG LASTING STRUCTURES WITH POWER PRESERVED GLULAM®
STRONG, DURABLE , SUSTAINABLE
POWER PRESERVED GLULAM® FEATURES
• Manufactured with superior strength southern yellow pine MSR Lumber.
• Offered in two oil-borne preservative treatments: Permethrin / IPBC and Copper Naphthenate
• Fast, easy, one-piece installation that’s more efficient than bolting or nailing multi-ply dimension or structural composite lumber members together.
• Excellent choice for decks, boardwalks, pergolas, covered porches and demanding environments such as bridges, highway sound barriers, railroad cross ties, and floating docks.
• 25-year warranty from the treater.
WE DON'T PARTICIPATE IN DOWN MARKETS!
FOR MOST of this year, one of the main challenges has been “The market is tough right now,” or some version of that statement. Having been in commission sales for 40 years, I have lived through some difficult markets. I have developed and lived the philosophy of “We don’t participate in down markets” and have been teaching it for 30 years.
My father was a sweet man, but as a child of the Great Depression, he always worried about it happening again and was very negative about the economy. At 10 years old, I asked, “Dad, why are you so negative all the time?” He said, “I am not negative. I am realistic.” I said, “Well, if you are so realistic, how come you never talk about positive things, because positive things happen, too.” He then started talking about the Great Depression (again!).
I asked, “OK, during the Depression, what was the unemployment rate?” He said, “About 30%.” (In fact, it was 25% at its peak). I said, “So I only have to beat the bottom 30%. I think I can do that.” Although my parents were negative about a lot of things, they always told us, “You are head and shoulders above all the kids on this block. You can accomplish anything you put your mind to.”
Fight Club
My personal philosophy that I live and teach is similar to the number one rule expressed in the great movie Fight Club. The number one rule of Fight Club is “We don’t talk about Fight Club.” I feel the same about tough times.
------------ BY JAMES OLSEN
One of my students asked me, “If our customers really want to talk about how tough the market is, should we discuss it with them?” My answer, “Absolutely not! We can commiserate for one sentence, and then we change the subject to something positive.”
For example:
Customer: “This market is terrible.”
Master Seller: “It is tough right now, but because of that the mills are very receptive, and we are making some crazy deals on 2x4 16’s, which you burn through. Print shows 16’s at $650/MBF, but we put a block of 20 together at $595/MBF. How many can you use?”
To quote Baron Rothchild, “When there’s blood in the streets, there’s money to be made, even if the blood is your own.”
The Competition Thins
Another good thing about tough markets is a lot of salespeople get discouraged and give up. A positive attitude alone won’t save us. We stay positive, put our heads down, and work! It’s an old but true statement: “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”
I know salespeople in many different markets that killed it from 2010-2019 because they had the playing field to themselves after so many commission salespeople gave up and moved to salaried jobs.
The Psychology of Positive Denial
We must tell ourselves that we are great and that we are going to kill it
every day. Is this realistic? I tell my students, “The world and the markets are not ruled by the realistic!” Kenny Smith of the great show Inside the NBA says, “To play in the NBA you have to think you are better than you are.”
As a 5’ 10”, 175-lb. basketball player, I used to sit in my car outside the gym and repeat the mantra, “I’m the best shooter in the gym,” over and over until I believed it. Based on that mantra and hours of practice I often (sometimes!) was. My philosophy holds true of commission sales.
Save More Than Most
As commission salespeople, we are playing without a net. We must save more money than the average salaried person so that we can weather the storm when it comes.
The Long Term
Commission sales is not for the faint of heart. If you have chosen this career, you have to think long term. Some of our best relationships will be built in tough markets. Customers will remember and be loyal to the salesperson who stayed with them in tough times. BPD
JAMES OLSEN
STRATEGIC HR MOVES YOU CAN MAKE THIS SUMMER
------------
BY PAIGE McALLISTER
SUMMER MAKES us think of sun, vacation, relaxation and human resources…wait, what?!?!
The summer months are often a slower time operationally, which can allow management to proactively and strategically focus on other critical aspects of running a successful business, such as human resources. If summer is your busy season, consider these activities during your business’ slower season.
Most companies have been impacted by changes in the economy, labor market, legal regulations, and other factors, as well as variations in their internal structure, demands, operations, and so forth. While every year experiences fluctuations of this kind, successful businesses take the time to reflect and reevaluate along the way. Dedicating time during these quieter months of summer can have a significant impact for the rest of the year.
Review your year-to-date progress. Consider achievements, budget, goals, and key metrics at the company, department, team, and individual levels and adjust your strategies and plans as needed to stay on track. If you made your 2025 plans six months ago, it’s likely that things have changed, including new challenges, different personnel, increased expenditures, and evolving priorities. Take the time to honestly evaluate where you are and where you need to be—what has been accomplished or should be adjusted, delayed, or canceled, and how does that impact everything and everyone else? Look not only at your own goals but those of the company, your department, and your employees to ensure everyone is moving in the right direction to finish the year strong.
Conduct mid-year check-ins with employees. Just like you should be taking the time to see where you are
year-to-date, you should expect your employees to do the same. Are they on track with their professional and personal goals? Are they ahead of target and need to focus on another goal? Do their aspirations still align with the organization? Are they happy? Do they have concerns? Take the time to talk with them and plan what is needed to advance your stars, resolve your problems, and retain everyone else as a cohesive team.
Assess your employment strategy. Your workforce needs and composition may change due to fluctuations in operations or sales, employee personal needs, budgetary restrictions, or regulatory requirements. Now is a great time to review your workforce to plan for the rest of the year proactively. Do you have the correct number of employees? Are any employees expected to leave your workforce either permanently or temporarily? Are your recruiting methods, starting salary, benefits, hiring process, and other factors attracting the right candidates for the jobs you have or want to have?
Review your handbook, policies and procedures, and update them as needed. Changing regulations and best practices often necessitate updates to your policies and procedures. Have your handbook reviewed and updated now to ensure it is compliant on Jan. 1, when many new laws go into effect. Assess what other regulatory changes (i.e., pay transparency, ban-the-box, paid leave, paid sick time, marijuana legalization, etc.) may require updating your procedures, forms or documents or notifying employees either directly or through updated posters and notices. Review employee files, especially I-9s. A regular review of employee files can ensure compliance with regulations, as well as ensure you have complete files on
every employee and that active and terminated files are handled appropriately. With the recent urgency for Form I-9 compliance, it is a great time to do an internal audit of those forms and procedures, even if you do not have time to review the entire employee file.
Provide employees with updates on their paid time off. Paid time off (often referred to as PTO, vacation, sick, and/ or personal time) is a valuable benefit that most companies offer either voluntarily or as mandated by state laws. Remind employees of how much PTO they have used so far and have to use for the remainder of the year, as well as what will happen if they do not use all of their PTO by the end of the benefit year (Will it be carried over, paid out, lost?). Recommend they submit PTO requests as soon as possible, especially for time off around holidays or for known medical procedures. This will help you better plan for upcoming workforce fluctuations.
Begin planning for the upcoming major initiatives scheduled for later in the year. Take time now to start preparing for the big projects you know are coming, to save time and stress at the deadline. You can start working on open enrollment documents now. Review employee compensation to begin planning for raises and bonuses; even better, have a market analysis and/or pay review done so you know you are where you want and need to be to compete in today’s labor market and retain top talent. Consider introducing a Total Rewards Statement into your year-end process which will be easier if you start planning now. Allow employees some flexibility to refocus for the upcoming year and challenges. While not a permanent
fix to any problems and not possible in every organization, consider offering your employees some flexibility or relaxation during this time. Consider flexible scheduling options, such as four-day workweeks, shorter workdays on Mondays or Fridays, or alternating between remote and in-office workdays. Relax the dress code to allow jeans, capris or dress shorts with nice sneakers or dress sandals. Plan fun days such as potlucks, picnics, outings, community service, or family days. Using this time to build goodwill with your employees can pay big dividends for the busier times to come.
Take advantage of some “me time” to recharge. Once the summer wraps up, we will still have four often-hectic months to finish out the year. Use some of this quieter time to focus on you. Take time off, in either whole or partial days. Plan time with family and friends, or do something you enjoy. Look for professional development opportunities to further your knowledge and recharge your passion for your work. BPD
PAIGE McALLISTER
Paige McAllister, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is vice president for compliance with The Workplace Advisors, Inc. Reach her at (877) 660-6400 or paige@theworkplaceadvisors.com.
5 QUESTIONS WITH FURMAN BRODIE
Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Furman Brodie, and I am vice president of Charles Ingram Lumber Co. in Effingham, S.C. Charles Ingram Lumber Co. has been around since 1932, and we manufacture southern yellow pine dimension lumber like 2x4s through 2x12s, 4x6s, and 6x6s. Most of the pine we manufacture goes directly to treaters.
We are a family-owned business—I’m an inlaw—and along with another in-law and several employees that might not be blood-related but feel like family, we work together to keep the mill in business. We don’t go by real titles or defined areas of work; we all pitch in and work together to get done whatever needs to be done.
What challenges do you see in the industry today?
We see several challenges in the lumber industry right now, to include getting rid of wood by-products. If a mill has been sending pulpwood and chips to a paper mill and then the paper mill closes, it creates a vacuum. Those by-products don’t have a home.
Overall, the lumber industry is somewhat weak right now. But this is typical: the industry goes up and the industry goes down. It’s our job to mind our Ps and Qs, keep making a living along the way, and ride it out until the next uptick.
What are your thoughts on selling lumber in this market?
There is a huge opportunity in front of us to better educate retailers on what they’re selling. Years ago, I went on a tour of retail lumberyards in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia, to talk to them about lumber and how we can help them sell more. Several of the lumberyards we met with complained about “excessive wane” on boards; we suggested they purchase prime to get rid of that issue, and many had never heard of it. Too many of them didn’t know about the varying grades of lumber and how each of them can be put to use.
For example, #2 lumber grade allows for a good amount of wane to be present. If a lumberyard is ordering #2, we want them to understand this fact in order to prevent re-
turns and/or complaints on their end.
Lumber is a very different product from others on the market, and it’s important to understand the intricacies of it in order to sell it right, understand what the customer needs, and guarantee a happy customer. Without this knowledge, you’re likely to get false reads and false impressions on lumber, resulting in customers who aren’t as happy as they should be.
Given the current challenges in the lumber market, what are you seeing as a solution? What is key for retailers?
Big picture, we’ve got to get production in line with demand. It’s just that simple. But it’s not something we can actively accomplish; it’s something that will naturally happen over a period of time. We’ve got to let the market forces work it all out. It’s not an easy fix, but it will come.
We also need to come up with new ways to use by-products beyond selling them to paper mills.
On the retailer side, I would encourage continued education and development of sales teams to help increase lumber sales and decrease callbacks and/or returns.
What’s next in the lumber industry?
We’ve got to wake people up to the fact that choosing and using lumber is one of the friendliest things you can do for the environment. It truly is!
Let’s look at the overall life cycle: trees store carbon. As they grow, they remove nasty carbon dioxide from the air and release oxygen. As the tree gets old you can harvest it and use it to build a home, and it’s got a whole new life. The parts not used in lumber manufacturing are recycled and used for energy. The best part: then you plant more trees, and the process starts all over again. No petroleum, no finite resources—lumber is truly an all-natural product. It’s an amazing material God created for our use.
I can’t say it enough: lumber is wonderful for the environment. I can’t think of any other material that has the strength lumber has, that you can cut and shape as you need, that’s easy to handle, that provides a valuable service to us as humans by removing carbon dioxide… it’s the perfect building product BPD
Furman Brodie
Easy to order. Easier to stock.
Introducing the HDUE ™ holdown and SABR ™ anchor bolt solution from Simpson Strong-Tie.
Now you can give customers a stronger, faster way to secure shearwall end studs to concrete foundations in residential and light-frame commercial projects.
Engineered for higher loads, our new HDUE is ideal for modern structures with more windows and smaller areas for shearwalls. As a direct replacement to our HDU holdown, the HDUE comes packaged with fasteners and washers. Builders attach it to the foundation with our new SABR anchor bolt. The SABR, a cast-in-place bolt also made for higher loads, replaces our SB and SSTB anchor bolts. With just one diameter for each length, the SABR is simpler to order and stock. The HDUE holdown and SABR anchor bolt are code listed, widely available in several sizes, and backed by our expert service and support.
To learn more, contact your representative or visit go.strongtie.com/hdue-sabr.
SPAHN & ROSE ACQUIRING WHIT DAVIS IN ARKANSAS
Spahn & Rose Lumber, Dubuque, Ia., agreed to purchase Whit Davis Lumber Plus, a family-owned lumber and building materials supplier with three Arkansas locations in Jacksonville, Cabot and Greenbrier.
The deal was set to close on June 20, with stores reopening under the Spahn & Rose family on June 23.
The Whit Davis name and local management remain unchanged under Troy Hunter, president of Whit Davis.
Spahn & Rose currently operates 28 locations across Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Georgia and Alabama.
Founded in 1953 in Jacksonville, Ar., by Whit and Miriam Davis, the company has served central Arkansas for more than 70 years.
Dan Davis, representing the founding Davis family, said, “I felt confident that Spahn & Rose was the right partner from early on. Their team consistently emphasized the importance of culture, and they mirror the values and beliefs we’ve held dear since my grandfather started the business,” he said. “I could not be any prouder to hand over our legacy to a more deserving team.”
SRS Distribution is adding new locations in Norwich, Ct., and Osage Beach, Mo.
Patterson Lumber, Galeton, Pa., has ceased milling operations after 104 years.
Atlanta Hardwood Corp., Atlanta, Ga., has officially rebranded as AHC Hardwood Group and launched a new website at ahchardwood.com.
Bell Lumber & Pole, New Brighton, Mn., sold a minority stake in the company to Quanta Services
Culpeper Wood Preservers’ has expanded production of FlamePRO fire-retardant treated lumber to its plant in Lancaster, Ma.—its first location in the Northeast to stock FRTW.
Haywood Forest Products broke ground June 13 on a new sawmill in LaFayette, Al. Production of cross ties should begin in early 2026, with hardwood pallet components to follow.
BlueLinx added LP Building Solutions’ Siding Solutions brands and prefinished solutions at its Springfield, Mo., DC. BlueLinx now stocks LP Smartside at 19 locations.
Parksite Inc., Batavia, Il., has expanded its distribution of IG Railing frameless glass railing to its Garner, N.C., location. IG Armor is now stocked at all Parksite stocking locations.
Russin, Montgomery, N.Y., is now distributing Millboard composite decking and siding in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.
Atlantic Plywood, Woburn, Ma., now carries Sayerlack wood coatings at its Northeast locations.
PFP Distribution, Orange, Ma., is now distributing EvaLast Infinity IS, Apex Plus, and Pioneer bamboo composite decking throughout the Northeast.
DW Distribution, DeSoto, Tx., is now carrying Woodtone products, including RusticSeries, RealTrim Treated, RealPost, AbsoluteCedar, ColorSelect, and Wall & Ceiling Collection.
Wilsonart added a distribution center in Memphis, Tn.
White Cap has acquired threeunit Advanced Fastening Supply, Appleton, Wi.
THE BEST IS ALWAYS IN DEMA ND.
YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine stands unrivaled in providing the best available protection against rot, fungal decay and termite attack. Enjoy the uncompromising beauty of a backyard made with high quality natural wood products from YellaWood ® brand pressure treated pine. Visit yellawood.com for more information.
CAMERON ASHLEY EXPANDS IN FLORIDA
Cameron Ashley Building Products has opened a new distribution center in Fort Pierce, Fl.—its second location in the state.
Managed by Jeremy Theisen, the new location stocks a range of fiberglass insulation, mineral wool, spray foam, rigid board, sheathing, and all related accessories.
“Fort Pierce and the surrounding Treasure Coast region are experiencing significant economic and population growth, leading to increased demand in the construction sector,” said regional VP John Gambone. “With this new location, we can now provide faster, more reliable service from the Space Coast to Miami.”
Cameron Ashley also has new locations in the works for Jacksonville and Fort Myers, Fl.
MINNESOTA LUMBERYARDS JOIN FORCES
Northwoods Lumber, Blackduck, Mn., acquired Peterson Lumber, Thief River Falls, Mn., as its third location.
Peterson Lumber is a family-owned lumberyard and hardware store that has been a staple in the Thief River Falls community for 61 years. Northwoods Lumber opened in 1973 and added a store in Bemidji, Mn., in 1993. Peterson serves professionals and DIYers, with a small hardware store/showroom and full lumberyard.
Peterson Lumber was founded in 1964 by John Peterson. His sons, Brian and Gordy, purchased it from their father in 1982, and have run the business together since then. As the two began considering retirement, finding a successor that could carry on the same small business values that have made them successful was vital. When Northwoods Lumber expressed interest in the acquisition, it made their decision much easier.
Northwoods owner Daryl Lundberg noted, “Independent lumberyards are becoming fewer and fewer in our industry. The Petersons have navigated a volatile industry for decades and have managed to build solid customer relationships that have kept them successful. There are a lot of similarities in our business values, so this acquisition made sense when we decided to expand.”
BAILLIE CLOSING NY HARDWOOD MILL
Baillie Lumber Co. is winding down operations at Potter Lumber Co., a 115-year-old hardwood mill in Allegany, N.Y.
Baillie, which acquired the facility from the Potter family more than 10 years ago, attributed the closure to market challenges, including uncertainty over tariffs. Milling activities will be discontinued over the next few months, after which the facility will continue to serve as a log yard.
GREAT LAKES ACE OPENING IN CINCINNATI
Great Lakes Ace, Farmington Hills, Mi., has signed an agreement to open a new store in Cincinnati, Oh.
The new Great Lakes Ace will feature more than 13,000 sq. ft. of retail space. Renovations to the space will begin later this year, with a soft opening tentatively planned for the first quarter of 2026.
A subsidiary of Ace Retail Holdings, Great Lakes Ace currently owns and operates more than 75 stores in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky.
Williams Lumber, Bay Minette, Al., has been sold by Joel Williams to Richard P. Reaves, who is now operating the business as Superior Lumber.
Mifflinburg Lumber & Building Supply, Mifflinburg, Pa., opened a branch in Middleburg, Pa., featuring an 8,000-sq. ft. retail building and 15,000-sq. ft. drive-thru lumber/drywall warehouse.
Commonwealth Lumber, Willoughby, Oh., was acquired by Larry Davis and Sally Boggess after 69 years of Palay family ownership. Steve and Jeff Palay are semi-retiring.
Harbin Lumber Co. held a board-cutting ceremony to mark the opening of its new corporate office in Lavonia, Ga.
Cashway Building Supply, Adamsville, Tn., opened a 20,000-sq. ft. lumberyard in Selmer, Tn., taking over the former Selmer Hardware and constructing a new lumber warehouse.
Wagoner Lumber, Wagoner, Ok., underwent a complete remodel.
Flynn Lumber & Supply, Gladwin, Mi., held a grand opening on April 23 to show off its newly renovated showroom.
41 Lumber is remodeling its store in Quinnesec, Mi.
Frederick & May Lumber Co., West Liberty, Ky., is switching from True Value to Ace Hardware affiliation.
Wall Lake Lumber, Wall Lake, Ia., remodeled.
Crosslin Building Supply held a ribbon cutting on June 11 at its location in Springfield, Tn., which it acquired late last year from Lee's Quality Building Materials.
Meadors Lumber Co. extensively remodeled its Alma, Ar., store.
Maximus Building Supply has relocated its Olive Branch, Ms., location to a larger site in Hernando, Ms.
Hagan Ace Hardware plans to rebuild after a May 23 fire destroyed its store in Orange Park, Fl.
Westlake Ace Hardware is closing its 60-year-old location in Kirksville, Mo., at the end of October.
Alliance Building Materials added a kitchen cabinet warehouse and showroom in Avenel, N.J.
Pella Windows & Doors opened a new Experience Center Showroom in Riverhead, N.Y.
Lowe's Cos., Mooresville, N.C., completed the acquisition of Artisan Design Group, Coppell, Tx., a nationwide provider of design, distribution and installation services for interior surface finishes to builders and property managers.
Lowe's also opened a new home center on May 22 in Haslet (N. Fort Worth), Tx.
Habitat for Humanity is opening a ReStore discount outlet this fall in North Wales, Pa.
Sneade’s Ace Home Center, Prince Frederick, Md., is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
MOVERS & SHAKERS
Craig Cowart has been promoted to president of Central Network Retail Group, Collierville, Tn., replacing John Sieggreen, who will continue as executive VP-retail for Orgill until retiring next spring.
Louis Ferrone, ex-Lowe’s, has been named director of outside sales for Mensch Mill & Lumber, Bronx, N.Y.
John Lesher has been promoted to chief operating officer for Weekes Forest Products, St. Paul, Mn.
Edgar Sanchez and Miguel Sanchez, both ex-SouthernCarlson, are new to sales at Peak City Lumber, Apex, N.C.
Mike Logelin, who retired earlier this year after 35 years with Viking Forest Products, has been appointed president of Gulf Coast Shelter, Daphne, Al.
Dylan Reed is now co-mgr. of 84 Lumber, Grove City, Pa.
Benjamin Gremel, ex-Weyerhaeuser, has been added to the outside sales force at Mead Lumber, Lincoln, Ne.
Connor Newman has joined the outside sales team at Culpeper Wood Preservers, Culpeper, Va. Cristen Surrat was named plant mgr. at Culpeper’s High Point, N.C., location. Wendy Farmer and Jerry England are the new co-plant mgrs. in Sweetwater, Tn., and John Blake is now plant mgr. in Hebron, Md.
Kevin Andrade has been promoted to store mgr. at Arnold Lumber, Bristol, R.I.
Dave Seeley, ex-ProWood, is now mid-Atlantic area sales lead for Owens Corning Lumber. He is based in Annapolis, Md.
Patrick Dennehy, ex-Hancock Lumber, has joined Wurth Baer Supply Co., as territory mgr. for New Hampshire.
Mark Mason, ex-Stanley Black & Decker, was appointed VP, product management for BlueLinx, Atlanta, Ga. Michelle Gonos has joined the inside sales force for BlueLinx in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Gary Beaton is now in contractor sales for Belletetes, Nashua, N.H.
Lindsay Schroeder has been promoted to vice president of strategy execution at Marvin, Warroad, Mn.
Brandon Lyon, ex-Rugby, has joined the sales team at LeNoble Lumber Co., Rye, N.Y.
Philip Hunt has retired after more than 20 years as CFO of Harbin Lumber Co., Lavonia, Ga.
Christopher DiMedio is a new associate lumber trader with LBM Advantage, New Windsor, N.Y.
Nancy Andrews, ex-Southern Fasteners & Supply, has been named inside sales mgr. at Alabama Wholesale Lumber, Montgomery, Al.
Kevin Eitzenberger has retired as creative director of Palram Americas, Kutztown, Pa.
Mike Flores has been named president of Zarsky Lumber Co., Victoria, Tx., a division of Kodiak Building Partners.
Jovita Anderson has joined the inside sales team at Fitch Lumber & Hardware, Chapel Hill, N.C.
Rebecca Raffa, ex-MQ, is now with Builders’ General Supply Co., Little Silver, N.J., as Andersen window and door sales coordinator.
Gayatri Narayan has been appointed to the newly created role of president, technology & digital solutions for Builders FirstSource, Irving, Tx.
Angie Brown has been promoted to executive vice president and chief information officer for The Home Depot, Atlanta, Ga.
Bart Arney, ex-Home Depot, has been named general mgr. of Etowah Builders Supply, Springville, Al.
Michael Eversole, ex-84 Lumber, has moved to Carter Lumber, Johnsonville, S.C., as framing install mgr.
James A. Sullivan was named president and chief transformation officer of Koppers Holdings, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Tony Miner was appointed director of strategic initiatives for Do it Best Group, Fort Wayne, In.
Brent Emore has been named CEO of AHF Products, Mountville, Pa.
Julienne Sugarek, Quanta Services, was appointed to the board of Bell Lumber & Pole Co., New Brighton, Mn.
John Barkhouse will become CEO of GAF, Parsippany, N.J., on Jan. 1, 2026, succeeding John Altmeyer, who will transition to the role of executive chairman.
Suzanne Stefany, senior advisor at PJT Partners, joined the board of Cornerstone Building Brands, Cary, N.C.
Gabriel Farias, VP of OSB manufacturing at LP, Nashville, Tn., has been appointed to the APA – The Engineered Wood Association board of trustees.
Jeremy McClain, Osborne Wood Products, Toccoa, Ga., was installed as president of the Wood Component Manufacturers Association, succeeding Phil Menzner, Menzner Hardwoods Co., Marathon, Wi. New VP is Matt Yest, Kendrick Forest Products, Edgewood, Ia., and treasurer Mark Elliott, Elliott Woodworking, Pontiac, Mi. New directors are Christian Atherholt, Lewis Lumber Products, Picture Rock, Pa., and Mike Mooney, AHC Hardwood Group, Mableton, Ga.
Maggie Hardy, owner/CEO of 84 Lumber, was honored by the Senator John Heinz History Center—the Smithsonian’s home in Pittsburgh—as a 2025 History Maker during the venue’s 32nd annual award dinner.
Hugo Furst has resigned from the volunteer team at Mungus-Fungus Forest Products, Climax, Nv., report co-owners Hugh Mungus and Freddy Fungus
BOISE CASCADE Building Material Distribution of Houston, Tx., was well represented at the Greater Houston Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association's recent scholarship presentation, where the children of two BMD associates were selected to receive scholarships.
84 LUMBER ADDS NEW COMPONENT PLANT SERVING
DETROIT/TOLEDO MARKETS
84 Lumber has added another component plant—this one to serve the Detroit and Toledo markets.
The company’s newest plant is located in Northwood, Oh. The 75,000-sq. ft. building sits on 11 acres. 84 Lumber associates will build wall panels, roof trusses, and floor trusses that will cater to market demand in northwestern Ohio, northeastern Indiana, and southeastern Michigan, with the primary focus being the Detroit area.
The plant began operating in June, with 22 production associates and seven design and office staff currently working at the truss plant under general manager Wade Fuery and plant manager Francesco Pascolini. The company plans to hire a total of 50 associates, with the possibility of hiring another 20 associates in the future.
84 Lumber operates over 320 facilities in 34 states.
KINGSPAN UPS ITS EXPANSION PLANS
Kingspan Group is ramping up its commitment to the U.S. from $750 million to $1 billion of capital investment over the next five years.
Progress at state-of-the-art roofing facilities in Maryland and Oklahoma is continuing. Both will be in production in 2026.
As a consequence of the significant market and cross-sell opportunity, Kingspan is exploring an entry to the shingles category to be potentially based at its 100-acre roofing campus in Oklahoma.
A centrally located roofing mega-site—the largest in the U.S.—able to offer a full spectrum commercial and residential applications would provide “unrivaled” logistical synergies. The cost would encompass about $250 million of the overall $1 billion capital plan.
AUBUCHON BUYS WOLF IN NORTHEAST
Chris Wolf agreed to sell two Wolf Family Hardware stores in Woodbury and Watertown, Ct., to Aubuchon Co. The stores will continue to operate as Aces.
Following close of the deal, anticipated on July 8, Aubuchon will operate 130 stores across 10 states.
Chris Wolf, who has led the firm for the past 25 years, will continue operating its branches in Kent and Bethlehem, Ct.
WEYERHAEUSER BUYING TIMBERLAND
Weyerhaeuser Co. agreed to pay $375 milion for 117,000 acres of timberlands in North Carolina and Virginia from Roanoke Timberlands LLC, a subsidiary of Roseburg Forest Products.
The mature, highly productive timberlands will integrated with existing Weyerhaeuser timber and mill operations in North Carolina and will expand the company's footprint into markets in southeastern Virginia.
APA HONORS MILLS FOR WORKPLACE SAFETY
Engineered wood manufacturers from across North America were named winners of APA – The Engineered Wood Association’s 2024 Safety and Health Awards — the premier safety award program for North America’s engineered wood products industry. The program pro-
motes and recognizes operational excellence with the goal of reducing injury and illness rates.
The Safest Company Award went to three members. Domtar won in the category of three or fewer mills, West Fraser won for companies with four to 10 mills, and LP earned the title for companies with 11 or more member mills.
There were two winners in the prestigious Innovation in Safety Award category. Domtar’s Larouche, Quebec, mill won the Equipment-Based Innovation in Safety Award for their submission, “Distancing Handle,” while LP’s Jasper, Tx., mill won the Jack Wagner Process-Based Innovation in Safety Award for their submission, “Safety Champions – Future Leader Development – Safety Projects.”
Seventy-six APA member manufacturing facilities participated in the 2024 program.
The full list of winners and more information on the APA Safety and Health Awards Program can be found on the association’s website at www.apawood.org.
DO IT BEST FORMS MEMBER CARE TEAM
In response to continued growth and a sharpened focus on enhancing the member experience, Do it Best has formed a new member care team.
This newly established team is designed to streamline member support across the company and serve as a strategic partner to Do it Best members. Its primary goal is to make it easier than ever for members to do business with the co-op by improving responsiveness, consistency, and clarity across all points of the member experience.
To lead this initiative, Do it Best has appointed Jared Hufford as director of member care.
FIBERON UNITES ITS SISTER BRANDS
Fortune Brands has integrated its building product brands into the Manifest Collection, which includes Fiberon cladding and decking, Therma-Tru doors, Fypon decorative trim, Larson storm doors and retractable screens, and Solar Innovations glass structures.
Introduced at the recent AIA Conference on Architecture and Design 2025, the new collective of brands are uniting their industry knowledge, manufacturing expertise, and resources under a single point of contact.
NOVEMBER 5-7
2025
Traders Market
LOAD EXTENDER
Combilift’s new Combi Load Xtender allows full truck or container loading from one side only, increasing efficiency, improving safety, and optimizing space usage.
The new pantograph-style load extender was designed for businesses operating in restricted loading areas, or where double-side access to trailers or rail wagons is not possible or where space is limited. Its ultra-compact design ensures smooth movement and full functionality below standard trailer height without interference. The open-frame pantograph structure gives clear visibility over and through the extender for precise handling and safer operation.
COMBILIFT.COM (877) 266-2456
MITER-EDGED PORCELAIN DECKING
Mbrico’s porcelain decking materials are now offered with the sleek, seamless look of mitered edge, in 12x24" and 24"x24".
The tiles are Class A fire rated, offering the highest available resistance to flames and flame spread.
MBRICOTILEDECKS.COM (563) 844-8280
BRILLIANT BOARD SPACER
The Deck Divider reportedly reduces installation time by nearly 50% compared to traditional spacing tool methods.
The tool works with wood, composite or PVC, grooved or square edged. For most grooved boards, it relieves the pressure on clip fastening systems, helping to create uniform gaps.
The system is sold with two end clamps and five dividers built with ball bearings to be adjustable on an existing clamp. Simply secure the clamp ends onto a starter deck board and adjust the movable dividers between the deck boards. Tighten the hand clamp to pull the deck boards into the 5mm (3/16”) spacers and be ready to fasten deck boards down. Using six clamps will allow six boards 16’ long to be ready for installation in no time at all.
THEDECKDIVIDER.COM (612) 741-4310
BLACK FRAMES
Cornerstone Building Brands has introduced black interior and exterior options on Ply Gem 1500 Vinyl Collection Windows and Patio Doors.
Because dark colors require manufacturers to account for heat absorption and potential material stress, the collection was made with coextrusion technology; the process layers UV inhibitors and reflective pigments right into the product to offer long-term resistance to weathering and heat buildup.
PLYGEM.COM/BLACK-WINDOWS (888) 975-9436
Read grade rules, span details, and get new promotional ideas for your business.
USE ALL YOUR SENSES. Visit nelma.org for all things eastern white pine, spruce-pinefir and other softwood species grown in the Northeast and Great Lakes region.
Scan here for access to NELMA’s most recent Grade Rule Book.
Simply hold the camera on your smartphone over this image.
@NortheasternLumberMfg
@WoodInspiration
@wood_inspiration1933
LIQUID FLASHING
TYPAR is introducing an advanced, gun-grade elastomeric liquid flashing designed for superior air and water sealing in a variety of applications, including window installations, joint membrane detailing, and air barrier components in new and existing wall assemblies.
TYPAR Liquid Flashing offers premium gunnability and tooling, primer-free bonding to a wide range of construction materials (including OSB, plywood, concrete, PVC, glass, metals and architectural panels), low shrinkage for a tighter seal, and mildew-resistance.
Flexible and paintable, it’s suitable for rough openings and joint details, resists stains, and can be painted.
TYPAR.COM (800) 541-5519
MODULAR SAUNA
Thermory USA has partnered with Superior Sauna & Steam to introduce a modular, customizable sauna designed to enhance any outdoor wellness space. The Mod Pod delivers minimal on-site assembly and maximum performance, thanks to Thermory’s durable and sustainable wood materials. Exterior cladding options include thermally modified Kodiak Spruce for a traditional aesthetic, and Ignite by Thermory for a bold finish inspired by traditional Japanese shou sugi ban. It is available in two interior layouts: Social, featuring an L-shaped bench ideal for relaxed group seating, and Athletic, offering parallel benches that fold away to maximize open floor space. Each layout can be paired with either exterior finish, offering four distinct models.
SUPERIORSAUNAS.COM (715) 685-1468
, BRIGHT SANDING
Festool has introduced a first-of-its kind cordless random orbit sander with integrated LED lights—the ETCS 2 125/150. The next-generation sander, new accessories, and limited-edition offerings deliver powerful and portable solutions for professional tradespeople.
The built-in light provides a clear view of the surface, making it easy to spot uneven areas. It is customizable with three modes: full brightness, 50% dimmed, or off. Designed for virtually dust-free sanding, the tool features a dust collection bag, optimized ergonomics for working close to the surface or in tight spaces without compromising on control, and built-in vibration and surge protection.
FESTOOLUSA.COM (888) 337-8600
PRESS-ON LEATHER VENEER
Crafted for effortless installs and elevated style, EcoDomo has introduced Stratto RLV, Pressure Sensitive Adhesion (PSA) Recycled Leather Veneer. The product is ideal for adding texture to millwork, wall features, door and drawer inserts, back panels, and drawer liners. Backed with high-performance PSA, it applies seamlessly and holds strong, with no mess. It is available in 48"x48" and 48"x96" size formats.
ECODOMO.COM (301) 424-7717
Re Reddwwood i ood is
thrives in some of the most productive timberlands in the world. Redwood is known for its timeless durability without the use of chemicals. Due to its flawless formation, there has never been a Redwood recall. There is a grade of Redwood for every application, every budget, and every customer.
“Growing beyond measure.”
Call or visit us today. Our family of Redwood timberland owners will continue to be your reputable and reliable source of Redwood.
Rates: $1.20 per word (25 word minimum). Phone number counts as 1 word, address as 6. Centered copy/headline, $9 per line. Border, $9. Column inch rate: $65 per inch. Deadline: 10th of the previous month. Questions? Call (714) 486-2735.
Elwood Smoot, founder of Cherry Street Building Supply, Culpeper, Va., died on May 27 at the age of 90. Elwood entered the industry working for his father’s E. Russell Smoot & Son, Culpeper. In 1960, he and his wife, Harlean, started Cherry Street Building Supply.
Joel Hayden McDonald, 80, founder of Professional Forest Products, Statesville, N.C., died on May 24. A U.S. Navy veteran and 1972 graduate of Appalachian State Teachers College, he initially worked in education. He later joined Lowe’s Companies, where he served in a variety of roles in the Lumber Division. After retiring from Lowe’s in the late 1990s, Joel opened Professional Forest Products. After retiring from PFP, he worked with his daughter and son-inlaw at Carolina Plum, Gold Hill, N.C.
William Edward “Bill” McEwen, outside salesman for Crosslin Building Supply, Murfreesboro, Tn., passed away on June 4 at the age of 57. He started in outside sales with Huskey Truss & Building Supply, Franklin, Tn., then spent several years operating his own retailing barbecues
Lumber Wrap & Covers
from two locations. He joined Carter Lumber in 2018 and moved to Crosslin in 2023.
Stephen E. “Gus” Welter Jr., 57, owner of Granite Valley Forest Products, Marathon, Wi., died on May 24.
After earning a degree in economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1986, Gus began his career with Quality Wood Treating, Pittsburgh, Pa., following his father’s footsteps. He stayed on when Universal Forest Products purchased Quality’s Prairie du Chien, Wi., decking plant in 2002 and was assigned to oversee the facility’s expansion.
In 2012, Gus bought Granite Valley in Marathon and later added a plant in New London, Wi. Parent company Welter Forest Products now also does business as Peak Lumber & Plywood, AAA Hardwoods, Rockbridge Sawmill, and WFP Transportation.
He served as a board member for the National Hardwood Lumber and Lake States Lumber associations.
James William Hull, 88, third-generation owner of J.W. Hull & Sons Lumber, Warrensburg, Mo., died on March 13.
Robert Randolph “Randy” Rozier Sr., 72, retired manager for J.E. Beck & Son Hardware, Gordon, Ga., died on June 7.
Randy also worked with his son in the family business, Rozier Forest Products, Jeffersonville, Ga.
Freddy Thomas Brown, founder of Brown Lumber Co., Rockingham, N.C., died on June 7 at age 98. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
Walter Frank Fertig Sr., former co-owner of Granby Home & Handyman, Granby, Ct., passed away on May 13 at the age of 91.
After a career designing steam generators for nuclear power plants in the 1960s, Walter purchased his own hardware and lumber business, which he and his wife, Betty, ran for 15 years.
Listings are often submitted months in advance. Always verify dates and locations with sponsor before making plans to attend.
Rhode Island Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association – July 9, golf outing & clambake, Green Valley Country Club, Portsmouth, R.I., and Kempenaar’s Clambake Club, Middletown, R.I.; www.nrla.org.
Peak Auctions – July 10-16, Midwest online auction; peakauction.com.
STRONG WITH POWER BEAM ®
Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association – July 20-24, annual conference, Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, Fl.; www.slma.org.
Construction Suppliers Association – July 21-23, store manager learning group; July 23-24, sales professional learning group, Tyrone, Ga.; www.gocsa.com.
AWFS Fair – July 22-25, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nv.; www.awfsfair.org.
Southeast Building Conference – July 24-25, Kissimmee, Fl.; www. sebcshow.com.
Building Material Suppliers Association – July 24-27, summer conference, Hilton, Virginia Beach, Va.; www.mybmsa.org.
Missouri Forest Products Association July 25-26, summer meeting, Chateau on the Lake, Branson, Mo.; www.moforest.org.
Lumber high-strength solution for structural applications
National Hardwood Lumber Association – Aug. 4-6, walnut grading rules, Memphis, Tn. www.nhla.com.
Forest Products Machinery & Equipment Expo – Aug. 6-8, Music City Center, Nashville, Tn.; www.sfpaexpo.com.
Midwest Building Suppliers Association – Aug. 7, Sycamore Scramble golf tournament, Anderson Country Club, Anderson, In.; thembsa.org.
Peak Auctions – Aug. 7-13, Midwest online auction; peakauction.com.
Fastmarkets – Aug. 11-13, Forest Products Latin America Conference, Sao Paulo, Brazil; www.fastmarkets.com.
Construction Suppliers Association – Aug. 12-13, lumberyard design & operational excellence workshop, Tyrone, Ga.; www.gocsa.com.
Ace Hardware – Aug. 12-14, fall convention, McCormick Place, Chicago, Il.; www.acehardware.com.
Peak Auctions – Aug. 16, LBM auction, St. Charles, Il.; peakauction.com.
Mid-States Distributing – Aug. 19-21, Fall Rendezvous, Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, Az.; www.msdist.com.
Florida Building Material Alliance – Aug. 21-22, annual convention & expo, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort & Convention Center, Lake Buena Vista, Fl.; www.fbma.com.
Peak Auctions – Aug. 23, LBM auction, Howard County Fairgrounds, Baltimore, Md.; www.peakauction.com.
Midwest Building Suppliers Association – Aug. 28, White Pine Classic golf tournament, Tullymore Golf Resort, Stanwood, Mi.; thembsa.org.
FLASHBACK: MANUFACTURED COMPETITION
FIFTY-FIVE YEARS ago, the July 1970 edition of BPD sister publication The Western Lumber & Building Materials Merchant, took a deep dive into the newest challenge—or opportunity—to the lumber industry: modular housing.
NAWLA devoted an entire day of its annual meeting analyzing modular construction. Yes, speakers concluded, manufactured homes used less wood than traditional housing and didn’t always fit neatly into existing building codes, but there was still a place for those providing materials they did need.
Many attendees remained skeptical. So, following presentations by six different experts, the audience was divided into six smaller groups so the speakers could rotate from one to the other to answer all of their questions.
THE JULY 1970 ISSUE reported the seasonal reopening of Pacific Lumber Co’s demonstration forest near its manufacturing complex in Scotia, Ca. One of a chain of such forests operated by industry under the auspices of the Redwood Region Conservation Council, the lands were open to the public seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through the summer. Forest attendants were on hand to answer questions, pass out informative booklets (pictured), and guide groups along the nature trail. The lands are now owned by Humboldt Redwood Co.
Our publisher, David Cutler, left the day feeling headway was being made. As he wrote:
“We are glad to see more and more dealers taking a realistic attitude toward the threats and opportunities brought on by the increasing emphasis in manufactured housing.
Whether you call them manufactured homes, industrialized housing, factory built, or just mobile homes, they have stirred up a good deal of anxiety in the traditional distribution channels because of their all-too-obvious potential for creating enormous changes in the patterns of distribution.
At first, the unknown type, degree and feared extent of change caused far too many to cringe. But with the passage of time, reflection has set in and manufactured housing is more clearly weighed for what it actually portends.
Obviously, the answer is not to try and hold it back; the economic forces bringing them on are far too strong. The best course is to examine the entire situation and find where in the somewhat confusing welter of developments, is that area which will make you some money. More and more dealers and wholesalers are seeing it this way, and it can only be healthy for our side of the gargantuan housing industry.
The paths open for the dealer to get his share and still keep his role as a major supplier of the home building industry are many. For the strong, brave and well financed, becoming a manufacturer can be a most effective way to cope with the new situation. Richard J. Dye, president of the Home Manufacturers Association and a fourth-generation lumber dealer, figures this requires an investment of no less than $2 million backed by a bank line of credit of another $200,000. Any volunteers?
A more practical approach for the average-sized dealer, according to Dye, would be to act as a dealer for catalog plan home manufacturers. Given the
dealer’s status in the community, his knowledge of it, and connections in local financing and real estate, there is no reason why he couldn’t become the local source for housing as well as lumber and building materials.
Some housing manufacturers believe dealers need only purchase manufactured components, then supply the loose materials from inventory.
Many believe, and we lean to this view, the most likely role for the dealer is as a supplier to the manufacturer— essentially the same role as today, except materials go to a factory, not a contractor. Despite the present thinking that manufacturers always buy everything direct, we think the weneed-it-right-now aspects of operating a factory assembly line will continue to provide the alert dealer with a profitable business source.
Whichever way(s) it goes, opportunities are ample for those ready to make adjustments to sell new customers.”
The most pressing business, however, at NAWLA’s 78th annual meeting, held in June 1970 in White Sulphur Springs, W.V., was its board formally approving its merger with the Forest Products Wholesalers Association.
New officers were also installed, including new association president Robert Wells, Tarter, Webster & Johnson, and 1st VP Chris Snavely, Germain Lumber Corp. BPD
The July 1970 front cover humorously promoted products from Rounds Lumber, Cloverdale, Ca.—for when you need them fast to “keep customers from going on the warpath.”
Has anyone actually ever seen the backside of D-Blaze®?*
When fire safety is critical, protection starts from within. Trusted in landmark structures like the Sears Tower and One World Trade Center, D-Blaze® fire retardant treated wood is engineered to slow the spread of flames and smoke generation, giving you confidence in every build.
*Okay, legally we have to say: there’s not actually a firefighter standing behind every piece of D-Blaze lumber, ready to defend it... (but D-Blaze is so good at its job, you’d think that there was).
