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INDUSTRY NEWS
About 75% of replacement exterior doors and patio doors were purchased from home improvement warehouse stores, while less than half of replacement windows were purchased there, according to a recent presentation by Ed Hudson, Home Innovation Research Labs.
Among his other findings:
- Vinyl windows are the most common type in new homes overall, particularly in starter and move-up homes. Larger builders—those constructing 50 homes a year or more—are three times as likely to install vinyl windows than smaller builders.
- Wood windows are the top choice of smaller builders and builders of luxury homes.
- Recent data shows the average new single-family luxury home has about 28.8 windows, while the average starter home has only 11.3. The number of windows installed in a new single-family detached home went up from 17.8 to 19.5, on average, after declining in each of the previous 5 years. This increase reflects the strength of the move-up and luxury home markets in 2021, where rising home prices sidelined buyers at the lower end of the price range.
- Over the past decade, sliding patio doors have gained share from about 40% to 60% of new single-family home installations, while swinging patio doors have declined by the same percentage.
- Moving glass walls are being used in place of traditional patio doors more than ever—now included in about 8% of all new single-family homes. Moving glass walls are particularly popular in the South and West.
Premier Building Systems, Puyallup, Wa., is folding its Premier SIPS, R-Shield Insulation, R-Shield Geofoam, and Premier ICF (formerly Diamond Snap-Form) product brands—all under common ownership since 2018—into PBS. Its Big Sky R-Control SIPs brand is now being marketed under the Premier SIPS brand.
“Under the umbrella of PBS (Premier Building Systems), each brand fits perfectly into our niche—manufacturing superior products that are faster, stronger, and far greener for architects, contractors, and developers to use in building design and construction. We remain committed to offering the industry’s top echelon of sustainable building systems,” said Brad Huempfner, president.
Creating a family of brands fosters PBS’s ability to combine research and development, technical, production, and distribution resources across all brands, offering exceptionally high-performance construction and building system solutions from the foundation up.
“With all these superior building system product lines, we have remained committed to continued growth through investments in production, innovation, and sustainability. As the demand for environmentally responsible building products has grown, our wide offering of building systems has also grown to serve customers across North America,” said Huempfner.
Additionally, Premier SIPS launched a new look and new website full of product and industry resources at www.premiersips.com. R-Shield Insulation & Geofoam and Premier ICF will unveil new websites in the coming months.
Canfor Southern Pine will invest approximately $210 million to build a new, state-of-the-art sawmill in southern Alabama.
The mill, which will replace its existing facility in Mobile, will have an annual production capacity of 250 million bd. ft. on a two-shift basis, with a workforce of about 130.
The complex will also include a biomass-fueled lumber drying system. Startup is anticipated in the third quarter of 2024.
Knowles Lumber, North Monmouth, Me., is liquidating after a decade in business and has sold its customer list to Ware-Butler Building Supply.
Knowles’ staff is also moving to Ware-Butler, which intends to service North Monmouth from its nearby western Maine locations.
Owners Paul King and Bill Abbott are selling the Knowles property to a non-lumber business.
Two of New England’s top eastern white pine manufacturers will be stronger together with Hancock Lumber’s acquisition of Madison Lumber Mill, Madison, N.H.
Hancock Lumber’s eastern white pine operations will expand to four mills with its first sawmill acquisition in over 20 years. After the deal closes, which was expected by Sept. 30, the Madison facility will continue to operate under the Madison Lumber Mill name. The plan is to keep Madison’s employees, manufacturing systems, customer relations, and products produced unchanged.
Hancock CEO Kevin Hancock said, “The addition of Madison Lumber is filled with synergy for both companies. The current owners, Kim Moore and Jim Smith, have built an exceptional company. When you find caring owners that are looking for an exit strategy that can preserve and perpetuate their love for their business, employees, industry, and customers—well, it’s a win-win.”
Located an hour west of Hancock’s headquarters in Casco, Me., the Madison mill is estimated to be the sixth largest manufacturer of eastern white pine. In addition to producing pine boards and products, the company operates a significant wholesale division. Moore and Smith purchased the former International Paper mill in 2001.
The addition reportedly makes Hancock the nation’s largest eastern white pine producer. GM John Fuller, along with all of Madison’s employees, will remain.
Capital has added a distribution location in Oxnard, Ca., to complement its Chino, Ca., location.
The new location offers 4.5 paved acres and 38,000 sq. ft. of a combination of warehouse and office space. A five-car rail spur and excellent freeway access provide inbound and outbound freight services. Marshall Waugh serves as operations supervisor.
The new location allows Capital to improve its service model from Los Angeles north to Paso Robles and Bakersfield with products that supply the retail segment with the level of customization and responsiveness that they have been accustomed to receiving from Capital.
Capital now operates nine regional distribution throughout the West.
Kodiak Building Partners, Highlands Ranch, Co., has completed its acquisition of Denver, Co.-based Western Interior Supply.
Western Interior Supply was founded in 1985 to locally source and distribute Division 9 acoustical materials in the Denver-area commercial building industry. Over the past few decades, Western Interior Supply has thrived under the leadership and collaboration of its core team in operations and sales with over 200 years of combined industry experience and expertise. With USG as the leading manufacturer for ceiling products and a knowledgeable team, Western Interior Supply is widely recognized as the leading distributor of standard acoustical ceilings, specialty acoustical ceilings and walls, and decorative ceiling and wall products for Denver commercial contractors, builders, and developers.
Kim Stafford will continue to operate Western Interior Supply as general manager and will report to Beau Hayes, president of sister companies Jones Heartz and Drywall Material Sales, two gypsum distributors based in Colorado.
“Western Interior Supply is excited to partner with Kodiak to expand our capabilities, customer base, market coverage, and service to our customers,” Stafford said. “Our team at Western has become our company’s great greatest asset over the years, and I appreciate Kodiak’s emphasis on prioritizing our team to continue to make decisions at the local level for our growing market and industry.”
“Western Interior Supply is a valued addition to Jones Heartz Building Supply, Drywall Material Sales, and Kodiak teams,” said Hayes. “Kim Stafford has developed an expert organization that leads in the acoustical and specialty-ceilings market here in the Front Range. We are enthusiastic to partner with Western Interior and expand their presence and delivery capabilities.”
“The acquisition of Western Interior Supply marks our first acquisition in the gypsum space since 2017,” Steve Swinney, Kodiak’s CEO, said. “This is a bold strategy with headwinds in the single-family market, and we are confident it will pay off for Kodiak and expand our gypsum-related offerings along the Colorado Front Range market.”
Westside Building Supply, Lynden, Wa., has transferred ownership of the company to the next generation of their family.
Brothers Bernie and Jayson Bovenkamp, who had owned the business since 1978, sold it to family members Paul Bovenkamp, who becomes general manager, and Andrew Bright, now sales manager.
The new owners expect long-term opportunities to grow and an expanded inventory of products.
Bernie and Jayson bought the business from their father, Jake Bovenkamp, who founded Westside Building Supply in 1959.
Weston Forest, Ontario, Canada-based distributor and remanufacturer, has acquired Industrial Lumber Sales (ILS), Moultrie, Ga.
Weston president and CEO Steve Rhone said, “Industrial Lumber Sales is a well-run, highly reputable business with tremendous opportunity for growth. Their business is an excellent complement to Weston Forest: there are supply chain efficiencies that will create immediate potential for growth at both companies. Weston will benefit from ILS’ highly experienced management team, strong business model, and geography. Weston brings our diverse product mix, winning culture, financial strength, logistics capabilities, and the strategic expertise of the Watermill Group.”
ILS is a packaging, cut-to-size, crating facility launched in 1991 by partners Clint Friedlander and John Norris.
“This provides welcome continuity for our people, our suppliers, and our customers,” noted co-owner Friedlander.
Norris added, “Weston has a culture and core values that we can relate to. This is a good fit for everyone at ILS.”
The acquisition represents Weston’s fifth in the last decade, second in the U.S., and first since Weston was purchased last year by the Watermill Group
Building Industry Partners platform Southeast Building Supply Interests has acquired Buettner Brothers Lumber Co., Cullman, Al.
Buettner is SBSI’s first location in Alabama and third acquisition in recent months, on the heels of deals for Wallace Building Supply, Indian Mound, Tn., and Haywood Builders Supply, Waynesville, N.C.
Roger Farmer, president of SBSI, shared, “I consider Alabama home, and I could not be more excited to acquire our first business in the state. Under John’s [McPhillips] and Jimmy’s [Barnes] leadership Buettner has been a pillar of the Cullman community, and we look forward to continuing in that tradition.”
Panda Windows & Doors, North Las Vegas, Nv., a leading US window and door manufacturer known for creating some of the largest aluminum systems in the industry, is partnering with Tuval Minimal of Israel to bring its custom steel windows and doors to the North American market.
“While Panda has been designing and fabricating aluminum windows and doors for over 30 years, when we opted to offer steel products to our discerning customers we turned to the experts,” said Avi Shoshan, Panda Windows & Doors founder and CEO. “Tuval Minimal has been internationally known as the finest designer and supplier of premium steel-framed windows and doors for over 20 years, and we’re excited to introduce them in North America”
Kempsville Building Materials opened a larger facility with 120,000-sq. ft. warehouse on 18 acres in Henrico, Va., replacing two smaller Richmond area locations.
Kempsville, with 50 employees in the Richmond market, has served professional builders there for the past 10 years. However, with the market’s continued growth and to meet their customers’ demands, Kempsville opted to consolidate the two smaller yards into the larger one in June.
Greg Harrell, VP of sales for Kempsville, said, “With our commitment to partnering with our customers for their future growth, we invested in this location to be able to service the expanding needs of our loyal customers in the Richmond Metro area. This location’s larger footprint and warehouse space will also allow us to add 10 employees shortly to service the specialized needs of builders in this market.”
A division of the Carter Lumber, Kempsville currently operates eight locations and two manufacturing facilities in Virginia and North Carolina.
SRS Distribution has acquired De Bel Roofing Supply, a leading distributor of residential and commercial roofing and other related products with two locations north of the San Francisco Bay area. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Headquartered in Petaluma, Ca., the company was founded in 1989 by Andre De Bel and is run today by Andre’s two sons, Scott and Doug. De Bel operates a second location in Greenbrae, Ca., and currently employs a team of 15. Scott and Doug will continue to lead the Company’s dedicated team under the De Bel banner, ensuring continuity and consistency for customers, suppliers, and employees.
“It is an honor to welcome Scott, Doug, and the rest of the De Bel team to the SRS family,” said Dan Tinker, president and CEO of SRS Distribution. “The company’s exemplary customer service and focus on taking care of its employees make it a perfect addition to our family of independent distributors. This acquisition will increase our presence in the rapidly growing area north of San Francisco, and we look forward to the many successes our teams will achieve together.”
Scott De Bel, majority owner of the Company, commented, “We are happy to announce our partnership with SRS as the next milestone in De Bel’s storied history. After over 30 years in business, we were very fortunate to find a partner in SRS that would be a trustworthy steward of our Company’s legacy and treat our people like family. De Bel will continue to be a leading provider of residential and commercial roofing products in the San Francisco Bay area and will look to expand our reach throughout Northern California supported by the extensive resources of SRS.”
THE RESIDENTIAL building envelope is a system of parts, with each element impacting the performance of the other. Together, the right combination of products and installation techniques will create a robust wall system that is durable, energy-efficient, and moisture-resistant.
Though builders and remodelers are specifying and installing the wall products, dealers can play a critical role in helping them find the right products for each project. Here are some strategies to consider to help elevate your housewrap and flashing sales efforts.
- 1. Learn as much as possible
Building science is a category all on its own, so much so that the construction industry has companies, schools, and specialists dedicated to it. While you can’t be expected to know every nuance of the building envelope, having a basic understanding of how the products you sell work together can be a crucial resource for your customers.
Your manufacturer representatives are your best first course of action. They can offer product knowledge sessions for your sales team (and your customers), and many offer video tutorials and other options. Be proactive by having your rep conduct an introductory workshop each time you bring on new employees. Many also offer videos, white papers, and other resources for ongoing learning.
- 2. Look at the wall as a system and sell products accordingly
While it’s tempting to sell what you have on hand or switch customers over one product at a time, wall systems perform best when sold just like that—as a system, with each component working together to give moisture a path down and away from the wall. This also ensures compatibility between products and helps prevent failures. If your customer is buying housewrap, make sure they’re also buying flashing, and the right flashing for that housewrap and wall system application.
Your manufacturers’ representatives can help you understand which flashing products work best with each housewrap you sell. Some manufacturers may promote their products in systems according to applications, making the process even easier. For example, our Air Barrier Drainable Housewrap System, designed to provide the utmost in air seal capability and true drainage performance, combines self-adhered drainable housewrap, corner sill treatment, and flashing tape, liquid-applied flashing, or UV-resistant flashing.
As a dealer, selling the system can make the process more accessible for your sales team. For instance, if your customers are installing a trendy open-joint cladding system, our UV-Protected Rainscreen System, consisting of UV-resistant black housewrap, UV-resistant flashing, and a UV-resistant batten-style rainscreen, accommodates UV exposure behind open siding.
- 3. Understand other project factors, especially cladding
Each siding is different in both its physical structure and its material makeup, and that will influence what’s needed behind the walls. For example, vinyl siding projects off the wall and doesn’t absorb moisture, so it doesn’t need a rainscreen behind it; a flat weather resistant barrier will be sufficient. An engineered wood siding, however, will need a drainage plane provided by a rainscreen or a drainable housewrap to ensure water can drain away and not be absorbed by the siding. This is essential to protecting the siding and its finish while reducing maintenance needs. In fact, some cladding materials require specific housewrap products to preserve their warranty.
Ideally, all homes will have the most robust and efficient wall system possible, but monetary and homebuyer expectations play a role. Dealers with a deeper understanding of the project’s budget, green/energy certifications, geographic location, and other factors can help match their customers with the best possible system.
Finally, advocate that the builder use cap fasteners rather than regular staples. It’s an upsell but can help achieve maximum warranty coverage.
- 4. Create helpful displays
Seeing (and feeling) is still believing, and having samples and display boards on hand can help builders visualize how the wall systems you sell work together. Displays are also critical for educating on new building systems, such as open-joint cladding; this trend requires a UV-resistant housewrap solution that is best explained with visuals.
Kaylen Handly is technical innovation manager for Benjamin Obdyke. To learn more or to set up a virtual training session, please visit www.benjaminobdyke.com.
Frontier Post LLC, Stevensville, Mt., has added its own CCA treating plant to handle its own post and rail production, as well as agricultural products manufactured by others.
Operating on six adjacent acres as Frontier Wood Preservers, the facility saves the company money, labor and especially time.
“With the addition of our own treating facility, we are more flexible, more fluid,” said owner Orley Troyer. “We buy trees in the woods to manufacture and retail fence posts and rails. We used to ship them out to be treated. Now there’s just one loading and unloading. It’s worked out real well.”
The entire operation was installed late last year by American Wood Technology, sales agent for Moldrup Systems, including autoclave, cylinder, all pumps, tanks, control system, and mixing system. “We do the whole thing, and assist with the install,” said AWT’s Claus Staalner. “It comes in preassembled components. We started from scratch, and they were up and running within a week.”
Frontier says it’s been a smooth hand-off. “It’s a learning curve,” Troyer shared. “American Wood Technology/Moldrup has been very good to work with.”
Frontier currently treats about 95% of the posts and poles they manufacture, primarily lodgepole pine, to .40 retention or refusal. Much of the outside work is for fencing jobs and orchards in Washington, Oregon and California.
Frontier is also working toward being able to treat .60 products, such as highway guardrails.
LATEST ISSUES
TRENDING PRODUCTS
SawStop’s new 10” Compact Table Saw is a robust benchtop saw built for the rigors of the jobsite, while offering premium precision and safety.
Featuring contact detection technology, the saw detects when skin comes in contact with the blade and stops and drops the blade in less than five milliseconds. Injuries are dramatically minimized, and the saw reset is quick and easy.
Other features include 10” blade for maximum cut capacity, easy-to-adjust rack & pinion fence with a built-in high and low face to support all kinds of cuts, Quick-Tilt bevel for easy blade angle adjustments, and Micro Adjust to quickly dial in a precise cutting angle.
SAWSTOP.COM/CTS
(866) 729-7867
RIDGID’s new 18V Speaker with Bluetooth Technology works with all RIDGID 18-volt batteries, tools and chargers, offering total connectivity.
The premium 2-7/8” speaker and passive radiators deliver clear highs and a deep bass for six times clearer audio than the previous model. The speaker maximizes versatility by featuring a 2-amp USB charging port, handle and integrated nail hook for mounting capability.
It can be easily paired with any Bluetooth-capable device up to 200 ft. away. When paired with a 2.0Ah lithium-Ion battery, the speaker can run for up to 25 hours, lasting all day on the jobsite.
RIDGID.COM
(800) 474-3443
Simpson Strong-Tie has introduced the Quik Drive Cordless PROCCS+ Multi-Purpose Combo System, a lightweight, cordless version of its popular Quik Drive auto-feed screw driving system for collated fasteners.
Designed to improve speed, reliability and user comfort for a wide variety of subflooring, underlayment and decking applications, the cordless Quik Drive features quick-loading collated screw strips, precise countersink adjustment, and a patented auto-advance mechanism.
Combining new advancements in battery technology with low-torque fastener designs, the tool drives about 1,200 2” screws on a single battery charge. Combo kits include both PRO300SG2 and PRO200SG2 Quik Drive attachments, combining with a 2,000-rpm, 20V brushless DeWalt cordless DCF624 driver motor and G3 lightweight extension. They also include two 5.0-amp hour lithium-ion batteries, a battery charger, screw quiver, and protective soft case.
STRONGTIE.COM
(800) 999-5099
DaVinci Roofscapes has introduced a new single-width composite slate roofing tile. Province Slate, a 12”-wide tile with a fixed 8” exposure evokes a historical nature with authentic natural slate appeal.
FastenMaster has introduced TrussBRACE, a faster and safer alternative to temporary wood-based supports used to install roof trusses.
The innovative steel roof truss support provides both lateral and diagonal restraint in one brace, allowing framers to set, space and brace roof trusses in one easy step.
The device increases jobsite safety since it is easily installed from the bottom chord. Productivity is enhanced and waste is minimized by eliminating temporary top chord bracing that must be removed prior to sheathing the roof.
FASTENMASTER.COM
(800) 518-3569
Trex Co. is expanding its premium Transcend decking line with the introduction of Trex Transcend Lineage, boasting refined aesthetics, trend-forward colors, and enhanced performance features.
The new boards feature an elevated aesthetic with subtle, elegant graining for an unmatched natural appearance. Available in two new color options (Rainier, an airy mountain gray, and Biscayne, a light coastal brown), they are engineered with heat-mitigating technology in the shell to reflect the sun and reportedly keep boards cooler than other composite decking offerings of a similar color.
Boards come in square and grooved profiles, measuring 1”x6”. Square-edge boards come in 16’ and 20’ lengths. Grooved boards come in 12’, 16’ and 20’ lengths.
(800) 289-8739
Unlike metal corner bead products, which tend to crack, chip and dent, LevelLine Outside 90 solutions from CertainTeed are flexible and forgiving with their impact resistant plastic core, joint tape, and formulated surface paper.
Designed to create perfect outside corners in record time, they are available in 8’, 9’, 10’, and 6’10” lengths.
(800) 233-8990
Shur-Line’s new 9” Deck Pad with Detail Edge is faster than a roller, smoother than a brush.
A detail-curved edge is perfect for in between deck and fence boards. Its tear-resistant foam pad helps prevent ripping due to screws, nails or rough wood. Refill pads fit most handles. The tool can be used with all paints, stains, polyurethane and other hardwood floor or deck coatings without linting.
(800) 253-7856
New QuietBoard panels from MP Global Products can be installed beneath floors to inhibit the transfer of noise. They also add insulating value, increasing energy efficiency while helping keep rooms at a comfortable temperature at a lower cost.
The 6mm-thick fiberboard panels are easily cut with a utility knife. Manufactured with 100% recycled fiber, they are half the weight of traditional wood products. The 1/4”-thick panels are available in 2’x3’ or 4’x6’ sizes.
QuietBoard can be utilized within a flooring assembly as floating, stapled or glue-down.
(888) 474-0510
RIDGID’s new R860721 18V Hybrid Jobsite Fan is 40% more powerful than its predecessor, while delivering airflow at extra-quiet levels.
Being hybrid powered, the fan is great for on-the-go needs, and can run for up to seven hours on the max speed setting using an 18V 6.0Ah MAX Output battery. Its runtime can be extended when plugged into an extension cord.
The fan offers up to 10 different mounting options including a key hole for wall screws, a tripod mount, rebar holes, and the ability to clamp onto 2×4’s or be hung from its handle.
(800) 474-3443
The new RYOBI USB Lithium Screwdriver Kit features a removable battery that is interchangeable among the USB Lithium family of tools.
The tool features a pivoting head, giving users increased accessibility to fasteners during any application. An onboard bit storage conveniently holds one 2” bit or two 1” bits to ensure they don’t get lost. Dual LED worklights create added visibility when working in dimly lit spaces or where extra illumination is needed.
(800) 525-2579
BUILDING MATERIALS
An interesting thing happened in the lumber industry in 2021: The wood world stepped up and led the way back toward a more normal work world. It doesn’t matter if it was virtual, or if hybrid work became the everyday way of doing things. After staying home, not traveling, and becoming all-too-familiar with video calling apps in 2020, this past year saw people return to work with a vengeance, determined to grab that sense of familiarity they missed.
Nowhere was this more true and more evident than in the southern pine industry. Following a strong year faced with multiple, many-layered challenges, the staff and members of the Southern Forest Products Association dug in its heels, pivoted when necessary, kept their focus, and took significant steps toward a more normal year, both for themselves, and for their members.
Who We Are
SFPA is America’s first and oldest southern pine trade association—we came to be in 1915 as the Southern Pine Association. Since then, SFPA remains dedicated to advancing the southern pine lumber industry, promoting the use of member products in domestic and international markets, and facilitating the exchange of information and ideas. SFPA boasts an impressive membership roster that represents 45% of industry capacity for southern pine, and more than 100 member companies that provide products and services to the industry.
“We are the backbone of the southern pine lumber industry,” said Eric Gee, executive director of SFPA. “Our sole job is to build and create programs that serve our members, and that’s what we do. Even during the challenges of the past year and a half, we haven’t stopped growing, pushing, and educating.”
Let’s take a deeper look at the extensive list of SFPA accomplishments and areas of growth from 2021.
SFPA Retailer Resources
SFPA.org serves as a pivotal point of information gathering for both SFPA members and retailers through the providing of multiple resources designed to make the purchase of southern pine even easier.
Product Locator: Looking for a specific southern pine product? Hop on over to the Product Locator and peruse a selection of over 400 products. One click connects dealers and manufacturers to the appropriate sales contact. Concerned about grades, specific packing preferences, particular sizes, and lengths? No worries—all parameters are covered within the Product Locator.
Span Cards: Need a handy way to carry and reference southern pine span data? Visit SouthernPine.com and order one! Each card contains 12 span tables for common visual and mechanical grades under different loading conditions. A separate card offers three tables for pressure-treated southern pine lumber used in floor joists for outdoor projects. Everything you need, right at your fingertips!
Environmental Advantages
It’s important we continue to share correct information and education as to the environmental strengths and true impact of choosing wood as your favorite building material.
Here’s the main fact to pass along to your customers concerned about choosing wood: We are not running out of trees. The U.S. forest industry as a whole plants between three to five trees for every one harvested. Combined with strong methods of forest management, much of our country is enjoying healthier, stronger, larger forests than we’ve seen in decades.
Back in November 2021, a segment on National Public Radio discussed the impact to the environment of consumerism. Part of the discussion centered on the environmental impact resulting from consumption. What few people realize is that choosing lumber building materials directly affects the environment… in a GOOD way. Choosing wood equates to a lower carbon footprint and environmental impact than many building product competitors. Why? Because wood is the most renewable building product on the country. We are nowhere close to running out in this country. With the aggressive replanting rate referenced above, the forest industry ensures healthy, thriving forests for decades and centuries to come. Healthy forests build healthy breathing environments. And who doesn’t want more of that?
Great Under Pressure
The 2021 uptick in nationwide lumber production transferred to the pressure-treated southern pine industry, as our members enjoyed a higher overall demand for most of the year. Why? Because southern pine is easily treated and the perfect solution for outdoor projects. When it’s time to use the product to build or install a project, no special knowledge is needed, and no special tools are required – pressure-treated southern pine defines “ease of use.”
“What we saw in 2021 was homeowners getting out of their houses and into their workshops,” said Gee. “DIY home improvement projects of all parameters and sizes skyrocketed across the country. Garage and home projects took off as people worked with their hands, ventured outside of their comfort zones, and took on the challenge of building and creating things on their own.”
Gee went on to comment on the return of the popularity of woodworking and DIY project building, emphasized by the lack of availability of necessary tools both in independent retailers and in the big box stores.
“In the southern pine industry, we’re seeing an increased desire to get back to the old ways, to the comfortable things of their childhood,” concluded Gee. “People are transforming their backyards into the family oasis: whether it’s a deck, a pergola, a custom pool deck, or something else, 2021 saw a larger number of people get outside and create their dream backyard.”
Southern Pine by the Numbers
In 2020, southern pine manufacturers cranked out an all-time high amount of 20.8 billion bd. ft.
Looking at 2021: shipments year-to-date through August are trending up from 2020 levels. Within these numbers, No. 2 and No. 2 Prime are most widely produced, feeding the demand for pressure-treated lumber projects.
SFPA Family of Websites: In addition to SFPA.org, we offer a series of websites designed to provide information and education to each of our key audiences. Next time you’re online, check out these sites:
- SouthernPine.com: span tables, design values, product locator, treated lumber, specialty products and more;
- SouthernPineDecks.com: everything you need to know about building a deck or porch;
- RaisedFloorLiving.com: Want to learn more about raised wood foundations? This is the spot!
- SFPAexpo.com: The Forest Products Machinery & Equipment Expo is the premier venue for equipment manufacturers to display their products and services to the wood processing industry. It is held every other year.
- SouthernPineGlobal.com: Here you’ll find the product locator, exporter directory, importer purchase inquiry, and publications.
Forest Products Machinery & Equipment Expo
A highlight of SFPA’s 2021 activities: the return of Expo! In spite of a few lingering restrictions from the pandemic, the 2021 gathering was a shining star for SFPA. Nearly 1,600 attendees met in the Georgia World Congress Center and enjoyed mingling, networking, and exploring the 126 exhibitor booths.
“The purpose of Expo is to bring the industry together,” commented Gee. “The show presents the perfect opportunity for all sides of the buying equation—manufacturers, marketing, sales—to join together, in person, in one location, to celebrate the industry and learn from each other.”
Gee reported that the vibe at 2021 Expo was upbeat and forward-thinking, with attendees happy to see each other face-to-face and reconnect in person after 18 months of looking at each other through laptop cameras.
Who attends Expo? Member companies dedicated to investing in technology in order to operate their businesses more efficiently and successfully plan for the future. Whether it’s investing in operations, supply chain management, material handling, or grade recovery, there’s something for everyone at Expo.
The 2021 show represented the 36th coming together of the industry under the Expo banner; the show has been held every other year since 1950, mostly in Atlanta.
With regards to the future location(s) of the show, Gee reports that the association is listening to feedback and requests from both attendees and exhibitors, and multiple sites are under consideration for 2023. More information will be forthcoming from SFPA in early 2022.
International Efforts to Drive SP Traffic
A prominent part of SPFA’s activities in the promotion of southern pine includes maintaining a robust schedule of international seminars and trade missions aimed at developing the market for southern pine lumber in key areas around the world. These international outreach events are integral as to how SFPA serves both its members and the industry as a whole.
With seminars tailored for a wide range of industry professionals—from dealers and contractors to architects—each opportunity to learn more about southern pine addresses relevant topics designed to specifically address the exact needs of each country.
SFPA didn’t skip a beat in 2021 when it comes to export promotion programs, despite travel disruptions. A successful pivot toward virtual events ensured that the association was able to reach a record number of timber traders and construction professionals worldwide and to safely meet their needs effectively.
Let’s break down the activities and successes and take a closer look at each.
FEA Strategic Planning Webinar
As a gold sponsor of this online or virtual event, SFPA was able to provide member access to information, which helped each better define their international goals moving forward.
Worldwide Conference on Timber Engineering
SFPA’s participation bolstered the Association’s seminar programs across the globe to enrich international outreach and education. With international advertising and messaging support in multiple global markets, southern pine information was showcased internationally through a variety of channels.
Japan Technical Committee (JTC)
In partnership with American Softwoods, SFPA and the Southern Pine Inspection Bureau banded together to jointly present information on the southern pine resource and clarify the grading procedures for dense vs. non-dense grades.
Outreach: Caribbean
Throughout the southern pine-loving Caribbean, virtual seminars targeted hundreds of key buyers in both traditional markets and new markets—some of which SFPA reached for the first time.
Outreach: Central America
Multiple southern pine lumber events were held in Guatemala, with brand-new outreach activities expanding into the Panamanian building market.
Outreach: South America
Targeting potential southern pine lumber buyers across the continent, a first-ever virtual education seminar was held and pulled in excellent results.
Outreach: Latin America
Enhanced with upgraded discussions focusing on using southern pine lumber to build for high winds and in seismic zones, SFPA targeted audiences throughout Latin America with these solutions to these key discussion points.
Outreach: International Trade Shows
While many lumber industry trade shows across Europe, India, the Middle East, and Asia were cancelled or postponed in 2021, plans are well underway for a full slate of in-person trade shows in 2022. Members are keen to take advantage of these face-to-face opportunities, and SFPA stands ready to serve member needs.
Southern Pine Exports
Export numbers calculated throughout the majority of 2021 are roaring back to pre-pandemic levels, an encouraging sign as plans are underway for 2022.
Southern pine lumber shipments surged 57% through September of 2021 to a whopping $222 million, and exports of pressure-treated lumber—almost all of which is southern pine—jumped an incredible 31% to $93 million.
New Outreach for 2021
Brand new for the southern pine international outreach in 2021: SFPA launched informational newsletters in the Caribbean and Latin American markets aimed at maximizing engagement with a growing in-house database of traders and specifiers.
– For more information on all the activities managed by the Southern Forest Products Association, to access our numerous pieces of free educational information, or to become an SFPA member, please visit www.sfpa.org.
For homeowners looking for serious low-maintenance performance and durability for the roof over their head, it’s hard to beat metal.
Quality metal roofing finishes and coatings up the ante even more, by delivering a wide range of benefits and style. The right coating can help achieve a desired look, address a particular issue and even add years of life to a roof.
Yet sorting through all the choices and considerations for metal roof coatings can be confusing. There are also specific performance characteristics that span the variety of available finishes. For example, certain coatings labeled as “cool” utilize special pigments that reflect infrared radiation and UV rays. These cool coatings can help alleviate heat build-up and reduce air conditioning requirements.
Here are the basics homeowners should keep in mind when it comes to selecting among the wide variety of metal roof coatings available on the market:
Painted Finishes for Metal Roofs
Modern high-performance metal roofing paints not only protect the roof but also substantially increase the energy efficiency and longevity of a roof. In addition, high-performance paint systems offer a wide range of different looks and colors to satisfy homeowners’ aesthetic desire. Quality metal roofs come with a baked-on factory finish, which also makes maintenance a snap. Most manufacturers recommend simply rinsing them with a hose and at most, using a solution of gentle soap and water to clean them.
High-performance metal roofing paint systems can provide a durable finish with improved gloss retention, superior weather resistance and reduced color fading. These paint systems should be applied to a metal substrate at 0.2-0.3 mil thick prime coat and 0.7-1.2 mil thick topcoat.
Sophisticated paint systems also can help homeowners achieve a particular look. For example, quality paint finishes that closely mimic the multi-toned appearance of natural stone such as slate deliver beautiful style while offering the strength and lightweight benefits of steel.
Stone-Coated/Granular Metal Roofs
For homeowners who love the look of traditional shingled roofing materials, yet want the long-lasting performance of metal, stone-coated metal roofs are an excellent choice.
Starting with a base layer of metal (typically steel), the specially-primed roofing panels are first coated with an acrylic polymer adhesive and then the granular stone coating is applied, bonding the two. Finally, a clear coat sealer is applied over the top for extra protection. This type of finish offers homeowners all the benefits of metal roofing, in addition to great curb appeal for their home.
Stone-coated metal roofs also can be a solution for homeowners who live in areas where homeowner associations may not allow for standing seam painted metal roofing styles. Because stone-coated metal roofs mimic traditional shingles so closely, they can fit within certain neighborhood design requirements while offering far better protection and performance as compared to asphalt.
“As represented by our manufacturer members, homeowners have plenty of industry-leading options for quality metal roofing coatings to select from,” said Renee Ramey, MRA executive director. “From outstanding curb appeal to long-term performance, there’s no doubt that choosing the right finish for your metal roof can make a world of difference for your home.”
Despite the economic and logistical challenges introduced by the pandemic, consumer spending on home improvements and repairs grew more than 3% to nearly $420 billion in 2020 and continued its rise through 2021.
One surprising beneficiary of this trend is the window and patio door industry, which is heavily reliant on in-home consultations. According to the J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction Study, the industry’s efforts to adjust its business model to accommodate virtual consultation and offer discounts and incentives has helped drive higher customer satisfaction.
“Unlike other areas of the home improvement marketplace, window and patio door sales are often driven by an in-home consultation with experts who can talk consumers through not only their window options but also provide specific recommendations based on the home layout and design,” said Christina Cooley, director of home intelligence at J.D. Power.
She added, “Consistently, we find that manufacturers and retailers that make it easy to comparison shop and provide expert guidance are those that perform best in the study. This past year, they had to adapt, and many did so successfully. A majority—54%—of customers had some form of expert consultation and 11% of those consults were conducted virtually.”
Study Rankings
Renewal by Andersen ranked highest in the manufacturer segment with a score of 886 (on a 1,000-point scale), followed by American Craftsman (878) and Milgard (874).
Renewal by Andersen also ranked highest in the retail segment in a tie with The Home Depot, each with a score of 876. Window World came in third with a score of 874.
The J.D. Power Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction Study provides a comprehensive view of the window and patio door purchase and ownership experience by measuring satisfaction with window/patio door retailers and brands. The study measures satisfaction among customers who purchased windows and/or patio doors during the previous 12 months, based on performance in six factors for manufacturers and retailers: appearance and design features, operational performance and durability, sales staff and service, ordering and delivery, price, and installation.
The study aimed to gauge retailers’ and manufacturers’ brands and reputations, examine pathways to purchase, drill down on problems experienced, and deliver insight on what drives customer loyalty.
The most recent study was conducted during the first half of 2021. It was based on responses from 3,124 customers who purchased windows or patio doors within the previous 12 months.
J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics, and a pioneer in the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic modeling capabilities to understand consumer behavior.
customer interactions
with brands and products for more than 50 years. The world’s leading businesses across major industries
rely on J.D. Power to guide their customer-facing strategies
From reducing air pollution to using renewable energy as a power source, U.S. homeowners have an overwhelming desire for more information, more choices, and more action across the industry for eco-friendly construction materials and practices, according to the 2021 3M Home Renovation Study.
“Many homeowners are now inspired to choose construction materials that both serve their conventional purpose and make a positive impact for the environment,” said Josh Orman, senior manager of business development for 3M Industrial Mineral Products Division. “It’s encouraging to see consumers and 3M taking action to improve our environment.”
The majority of homeowners surveyed—74%—agree that using eco-friendly construction materials would make a strong impact to the environment, and 70% plan to purchase eco-friendly materials for their next renovation.
Not only do those homeowners find eco-friendly products appealing, but they are also taking the advice of others to influence their purchases; for example, 52% of homeowners surveyed stated they would be more active in considering eco-friendly materials if their friends and family were integrating eco-friendly options into their lives.
“Essentially, what homeowners say and do highly impacts those in their circle of influence,” said Orman. “Consider the positive ripple effect of homeowners making eco-friendly choices that educate and influence their friends and family in the process.”
Homeowners believe most in recycling and reducing waste as the top activity that will positively impact the environment. Eliminating single-use plastics, using renewable energy, reducing air pollution and selecting energy efficient products round out the top five.
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Coatings for Prefinishing
PPG is the leader in advanced factory-applied primers, finishes and stains for building materials. We combine a global reach with a dedicated service and support team, delivering expertise you can count on. Our team works alongside machine applicators to generate consistent film builds, color performance and long-term durability to ensure each project receives beautiful and long-lasting protection. Factory-applied coatings by PPG creates significant advantages for homeowners, builders, architects and lumber wholesalers and retailers over coatings applied in the field.
Color Expertise
PPG’s global color team, comprised of different disciplines and backgrounds, sets the standard with custom capabilities and trends that help our customers stand out from their competition. We are dedicated to protecting and beautifying the world.
Product Benefits
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Typical Customers of Coatings for Prefinishing
- Architects
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- Semi-transparent exterior finishes
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Find out more
For more information complete our contact form ›› or find your regional contact below:
Regional Headquarters
Asia Pacific
+86 022 6620 6109 (China)
+65 68082527 (ROA)
Europe, Middle East and Africa
+44 7876 506809
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+0 800 701 77 22
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1-888-774-2001
Could a piece of plastic replace a traditional concrete footings?
When building a deck, traditionally the builder will dig footings and pour concrete for the foundation. Another method for low profile decks is concrete blocks that can be placed directly on the ground.
Now, there are new products hitting the market that are making deck installs quicker and easier.
One of those products is called TuffBlock: an instant foundation system made of recycled polymers. TuffBlock footings only weigh 1.5 lbs but can support 1,700 lbs!
According to TuffBlock’s documentation, it’s been tested to over 11,000 lbs without collapsing.
Tuffblock: https://www.buildtuff.com/
TimberTown: http://www.timbertown.com
TimberTips: http://www.timbertips.com
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Specializing in Decks and Outdoor Living Projects
Builders and contractors specializing in decks and outdoor living projects have been enjoying this new industry resource for ideas and business strategies.
Deck Specialist from 526 Media Group, Inc., publishers of Building Products Digest & The Merchant Magazine
Deck Specialist is available in both print and digital editions.
The current WINTER 2018 edition of the quarterly magazine features case studies of unique projects, marketing/sales advice, and an expansive look at the latest decking, railings, and accessories.
