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INDUSTRY NEWS
After a 20-year run, the Hawaii Lumber Products Association dissolved, effective Dec. 31, 2022.
The association said it was founded in 2003 during a time of uncertainty in Hawaii’s lumber industry, as competitors were actively campaigning against the use of wood for Hawaii structures and spreading false information to consumers and contractors. The HLPA was formed to connect local lumber businesses through up-to-date resources, guides, and educational and networking opportunities.
Over the years, HLPA has provided more than $35 million worth of educational public relations and advertising, promoting the benefits of building with wood and wood products—including more than $1 million in 2022.
With the local lumber economy “once again thriving,” HLPA considers its mission fulfilled, and its board determined that its 20th anniversary was the right time to dissolve the organization.
HLPA president Mark Schwinn said, “Although the closing of this organization is bittersweet, I believe Hawaii Lumber Products Association has been an integral part of Hawaii’s lumber industry and I am proud of the work we have done and the impact we have made on local businesses. To this, I feel confident that our work is done, and we can close the organization with peace of mind.”
Westlake Ace Hardware has signed lease agreement to open two more stores in the greater Los Angeles area, bringing to 17 its store count in the state, including eight in Southern California.
Renovations will begin this summer on a 16,000-sq. ft. facility in Simi Valley, Ca., with an anticipated soft opening in the fall under the name Ace Hardware of Simi Valley.
Work will start later in the summer on a 12,500-sq. ft. location in Glendale, Ca., projecting a December soft opening for Ace Hardware of Glendale.
In addition to offering such services as key cutting and automotive key fob replacement, a propane tank exchange, and knife sharpening, both stores will sell lawn and garden supplies, fasteners, tools, plumbing, and electrical supplies. The new store will also feature several specialty departments and store-within-a-store concepts.
A previously-announced branch now under construction in Porter Ranch, Ca., is opening this summer.
Based in Kansas City, Mo., 118-year-old Westlake Ace Hardware operates more than 150 stores in 12 states. The chain has been affiliated with Ace Hardware since 1959.
The Lumbermen’s Association of Texas (LAT), a non-profit trade association that represents the Texas lumber and building materials supply chain, has announced its 2023 Public Policy Priorities for the 88th Texas Legislature.
“Texas has an opportunity to invest in its future and continued economic prosperity,” said Meagan McCoy Jones, Co-Chair of LAT’s Legislative Committee and President & CEO at McCoy’s Building Supply. “LAT supports increasing the homestead exemption as one tool in addressing housing affordability and we stand ready to support the legislature in identifying other opportunities to lower taxes and create jobs.”
“LAT has a long history of engagement at the Texas Legislature,” said Tim Moore, Co-Chair of LAT’s Legislative Committee and General Counsel at Cassity Jones Building Materials. “When our members gather in Austin for the 2023 LAT Action Day, we will also ask legislators to invest in CDL training and licensing. The significant driver shortage impacts every LAT members ability to grow and to serve their customers today.”
According to the Texas Trucking Association, the shortage of CDL drivers continues to negatively impact the supply chain, with a projected 62,000 new job openings due to growth over the next 10 years. LAT’s 2023 Texas Policy Priorities include:
• With a historic budget surplus, Texas leaders have an opportunity to make investments in the state’s future. LAT supports an increase to Texans homestead exemption as it will impact the housing affordability crisis. LAT will also work with Texas business leaders to advocate for tax relief that helps our economy create jobs.
• A $103 million investment to expand CDL training and testing sites at Texas State Technical College’s Professional Driving Academy increasing capacity to approximately 2,400 drivers annually.
• Protect the Truck Litigation Reforms from 2021 and work with the Texas Department of Insurance on its monitoring of the impact of the reforms.
• Oppose efforts to weaken the state’s Mechanic’s and Materialmen’s Liens laws and the ability of Texas suppliers’ ability to get paid for materials sold.
• Support legislation that will allow Mobile Loaves & Fishes to expand its CommunityFirst! Village with the construction of 700 homes in Central Texas. For many years, the LAT membership has partnered with Mobile Loaves & Fishes in their mission to support our homeless neighbors and to serve as a model to address homelessness in other Texas communities. Our commitment to this work is emblematic of our members deep Texas roots and investment in the communities we serve.
LAT will host a virtual briefing on its priorities and information on how members can support this work on Wednesday, February 1st. This meeting will prepare the membership to participate in the LAT 2023 Action Day Presented by UFP Industries. Members interested in participating should contact LAT for additional information.
“There will be many worthy investments before legislators this session and I ask my fellow Dealers, manufacturers, and suppliers to join us in telling the story of the Texas LBM industry.,” said Peyton Ritter, President of LAT’s Board of Directors and President at Ritter Lumber and Triple R Brothers. “We are able to devote significant resources to this work because of the tremendous support of our government affairs sponsors that understand how powerful our collective voice and actions are in Austin.”
LAT’s Government Affairs program in 2023 is sponsored by Boise Cascade, DW Distribution, Hixson Lumber Sales, Lumber Insurance Services, Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company, Southwest Moulding & Millwork and UFP Industries.
By the end of the year, 84 Lumber will open three new stores—all in the West—and make improvements to 54 existing locations.
The nation’s largest privately held building materials supplier currently operates 310 facilities, which include 234 stores, 14 component manufacturing plants, 28 engineered wood product (EWP) centers, and 34 door shops.
The new store openings include Stockton, Ca., and Denver and Greeley, Co. The company is relocating existing stores to larger facilities in Morgantown, W.V, and Sarasota, Fl.
84 Lumber is also opening a door shop in Denver, Co., and component plants in Boise, Id.; Winter Haven, Fl.; Columbia, S.C.; and a second plant in Atlanta, Ga. The current EWP facility in Atlanta is being relocated to a larger location in Cartersville, Ga., and new centers will be opened in the New Jersey and Boston markets.
“With the opening of these new stores and manufacturing facilities, we remain strong in our continued prospect for growth,” said president Maggie Hardy. “We value our customers and listen to what is important to them to grow their businesses. As a result, we are growing and expanding in two ways—opening new locations and investing in existing markets.”
Yakama Forest Products is installing a USNR-supplied Revolver Lug Loader and a Multi-Track Fence to reinvigorate their systems and increase the quality of the product at its White Swan, Wa., location.
The Revolver Lug Loader is designed for versatility and can be applied to a wide range of functions. The Multi-Track Fence is the industry’s top fence solution for high-speed mills thanks to its cost effectiveness and accuracy. By replacing older models of each machine, Yakama Forest Products can enjoy a more efficient system while enhancing lumber quality.
Spartan Railing, Bloomington, Mn., has rolled out a new brand identity—IG Railing—to better align with its illuminated glass railing systems.
The launch, which includes new brand logo and website (www.IGRailing.com), creates a better connection to global partner and patent holder Illuminated Balustrade Australia. Spartan Railing LLC remains the U.S. business entity.
IG Railing is a patented, frameless glass railing system featuring over 12 LED color options via WiFi or remote control.
“IG Railing as a product and brand is the result of executing our ownership group vision starting in 2020 to create a category shift to glass railing through LBM dealer and distributor supply chain” said co-owner Mike Kunard.
IG Railing has also signed up several new partners— Great Lakes Railing, Grand Rapids, Mi., and The Garham Group, Nunica, Mi., to service Michigan and portions of Indiana and Ohio; sales rep Langenfeld Sales, Oswego, Il., to support existing distribution in Wisconsin, Illinois, northwest Indiana, and eastern Iowa; and Building Material Distributors, Inc., Riverside, Ca., to supply Southern California. BMD’s Galt, Ca., location began stocking the hardware, lighting and low-iron glass last March.
Specialty Building Products has agreed to acquire Midwest regional building material distributor Amerhart.
Founded in 1940, Amerhart is a third-generation, family-run distributor of building materials serving customers from 10 locations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, and Missouri.
Following the completion of the acquisition, expected in first quarter 2023, Amerhart will maintain its current brand name, geographic locations, management team, and team members, led by CEO Mark Kasper and president/COO Chad Warpinski, as part of SBP.
Specialty Building Products’ other operating brands are U.S. Lumber, Alexandria Moulding, DW Distribution, Millwork Sales, and Reeb.
Effective Jan. 7, the Anthony Timberlands curtailed operations at its sawmill in Malvern, Ar., for one month, while it works with the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality to ensure its water permitting and waste management programs are in order.
During that time, lumber inventory levels are being drawn down at the facility’s planer mill, which also will eventually pause operations.
ATI president Steve Anthony charges that some in the community are trying to shut down the mill, falsely claiming that a massive petrochemical spill at the mill harmed livestock downstream. “There has never been, in the 48-year history that ATI has operated the Malvern sawmill, any kind of largescale petrochemical spill,” Anthony says. “During that time, we have not had a single environmental complaint.”
He insists the mill generates “very little process water discharge, primarily kiln condensate and boiler blowdown, which is essentially city water”—basically rainfall. Stormwater running through the facility is routed to a water clarifier, cleansing out any petroleum products. The clarifier is regularly cleaned and water gathered in it is pumped to a log watering, settling pond.
ADEQ water quality analysis in 2019, 2020 and 2021 showed no impairment or presence of heavy metals.
During the temporary closure, Anthony said, “ATI will evaluate its options going forward and determine whether local residents and government officials desire the 180+ direct jobs and $12 million annual payroll that the facility brings.”
Mendocino Companies Complete Acquisition in Utah.
Allweather Wood parent The Mendocino Companies, Santa Rosa, Ca., has completed purchasing the assets of Utah Wood Preserving, Woods Cross, Ut., and portions of its affiliates.
The acquisition complements existing operations throughout the U.S. West, covering the fastest growing regions, in a strong market for building materials. The acquisition improves service and product offerings for customers of all sizes.
UWP’s manufacturing facility in Woods Cross is a well-maintained, highly efficient preservative treating plant on a large, fully paved site with dry kilns and rail service. The facility will continue to operate as it has successfully for decades. A distribution yard, operating as ABS in Denver, Co., was included in the asset purchase.
Robert Moore, UWP principal architect and partner, has agreed to join many great UWP employees working for Mendocino’s Allweather Wood business. Moore, bringing valuable expertise, has a 40+ year career as a pioneer in the forest products industry.
“We welcome UWP employees as colleagues and look forward to working together on initiatives creating opportunities for everyone,” said Mendocino Cos. CEO Bob Mertz.
The Mendocino Family of Companies include Allweather Wood, Humboldt Redwood Co., Humboldt Sawmill Co., Mendocino Forest Products, and Mendocino Redwood Co.
In aggregate Mendocino owns 440,000 acres of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC C013133) certificated timberland, constitutes the largest waterborne wood treater in the western U.S., and is the largest producer of redwood lumber in the world. Collectively providing 900 employees and their families with excellent wages and benefits in rural communities of the Western USA. Additionally, Mendocino owns and operates a 25-megaWatt biomass Cogen plant and largest wood pellet plant in California.
APCO Siding & Window Co. has moved into a larger facility in Columbus, Oh., to accommodate continued growth for the foreseeable future.
The facility includes 30,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space, 20 offices, two conference rooms, and a showroom with 35 siding walls, 27 full-size windows, 28 full-size doors, and five full-size decks.
Great Southern Wood Preserving will invest $5.9 million expanding its remanufacturing facility in Mansura, La.
It will add four new production lines, increasing the facility’s capacity and allowing for the manufacture of components used in the oil field and for storm relief and mitigation. In addition, manufacture of supplemental decking components, such as rails and balusters, will shift to the Mansura plant from facilities outside of the state.
“Our expansion in Mansura is phase two of the long-range plan we had in mind when we began operations here in late 2011,” said president and CEO Jimmy Rane. “With the growth of various manufacturing segments in Louisiana, our goal is to be able to support these industries by providing both a greater volume of products as well as more variety in the products they need to continue their growth. We’re looking forward to getting underway in early 2023.”
Construction is forecast to start in January and be complete in October.
Metrie, the largest manufacturer and distributor of millwork in North America, has acquired the hemlock and alder manufacturing and distribution business of solid wood moulding specialist Fred Tebb & Sons, Gig Harbor, Wa.
The sale includes the machinery from Tebb’s plants in Dallas, Or., and Salt Lake City, Ut., which will be shuttered.
Tebb will continue selling hemlock and alder rough stock, Sitka spruce, animal bedding, pallets and firelogs from facilities in Dallas and Corvallis, Or., and Hoquiam and Elmo, Wa.
“As well as being the largest MDF moulding manufacturer and distributor in North America, Metrie also has nearly 100 years of expertise in solid wood production. We know quality solid wood products and services when we see them,” said Kent Bowie, president and CEO of Metrie. “Tebb has long been a leader in sustainably sourced and certified Pacific coast hemlock and western red (knotty) alder moulding products. This acquisition enhances our solid wood product mix and service offering to existing and new customers.”
“Like Metrie, we are a fourth-generation, family-owned millwork company, with hopefully many more generations to come,” noted Rick Tebb, president, Fred Tebb & Sons. “However, now is a good time to pass on the alder and hemlock trim part of our business, and I am sure Metrie will continue to build on the excellent customer service and product lines we have established.”
This is the fourth acquisition by Metrie in the last two years, following the purchase of Tinder Wholesale and EL & EL Wood Products in 2022, and Pacific MDF Products and Canadian MDF Products in 2020.
Owners Mark and Monica Walters are targeting a February opening for 1610 Hardware in Santa Fe, N.M.
The Do it Best store is moving into a 23,500-sq. ft. space formerly occupied by Office Max.
The name 1610 is a nod to the year the city of Santa Fe was founded.
Understanding compensation is critical to staying competitive in today’s volatile labor market. As we prepare for 2023, real wage growth is a concept that is particularly important.
Overall wages are projected to increase 4.0% or more during 2022. Although this is the largest projected increase in several years, the current inflation rate of 8.5% (the highest recorded in 40 years) results in negative wage growth for many employee groups.
Real wages/income is calculated by dividing the current wage by 1 plus the current inflation rate. For an employee currently making $40,000, the individual’s real income is reduced to $36,866 when the current inflation rate is considered.
Staying competitive requires both short- and long-term planning. Some of the things you’ll need to think about include:
Salary Administration
Organizations frequently spend a lot of time (and money) setting starting salaries for new hires, developing salary ranges to accommodate new positions, and even developing and implementing formal salary structures. All of these are positive steps, but often they are implemented and abandoned. To remain competitive, ongoing salary administration is required. This includes:
SALARY REVIEWS should be performed annually, more frequently when recruiting and/or retention issues occur. Hopefully, you’ve done some market pricing during the year to give you a baseline understanding of salaries in your competitive market(s).
Combined with market pricing information, regular salary reviews will help to identify pockets of salary compression (e. g., new hires making more than long service employees doing the same work), the range of pay for employees performing the same work relative to performance and length of service, and other potential pay equity issues.
SALARY RANGE AND SALARY STRUCTURE REVIEWS are also a critical piece of successful salary administration. If you’ve developed salary ranges or more formal salary structures, you’ve most likely based them on market information. But the market can change quickly. It is important to review and update those ranges and structures regularly. Affinity HR Group usually recommends this review be done every other year.
SALARY BUDGETS are the third important component to successful salary administration. Many organizations don’t prepare any type of salary budget, but those who want to anticipate future salary expenditures often prepare an annual salary budget that includes:
- Performance based and across the board salary increases (more on those below)
- Salary increases to address inequities as the result of reviews of paid salaries
- Salary increases to address inequities as the result of reviews of salary ranges and/or salary structures
- Anticipated payouts under bonus and incentive plans
Salary Increases
Once you’ve completed the basic salary administration activities described above, it’s time to think about salary increases. There are dozens of types of salary increases; some of the most common (and those that affect the most employees) are described below:
PAY FOR PERFORMANCE or MERIT INCREASES are common in all types of organizations. These increases are generally awarded for successful achievement of some measurable criteria. These criteria may be established and communicated in a formal performance review form or by less formal notes, discussions, etc.
Most organizations using a pay for performance increase system will award increases based on some type of schedule—end of year, end of organization’s fiscal year, or employee service anniversary. Awarding all increases at once has become a more commonly used approach, since it allows the organization the opportunity to view all employees at once and award increases that align with salary increase budget parameters.
When salary increase budgets are low (they’ve averaged around 3% for the last several years), it can become challenging to award true pay for performance increases. For example, a top performer earning $60,000 might get a 5% increase ($3000). An average performer earning the same might get a 3% increase ($1800). After taxes, etc., there isn’t a lot of difference.
ACROSS-THE-BOARD salary increases are generally given to all employees on a scheduled basis—most often at the end of the calendar year or the organization’s fiscal year. Often, the amount is determined based on the organization’s past performance, rather than determined through an advance salary planning/budgeting process.
These increases are usually awarded as a percentage of base salary, and all employees generally receive the same percentage.
Giving all employees the same increased amount can perpetuate pay inequities that may exist in an organization.
LONGEVITY or LENGTH OF SERVICE salary increases are based solely on an employee’s length of service with an organization. There is generally no performance component to these increases, which are often mandated by contractual agreement. These types of increases are most common in government and education.
COST OF LIVING ADJUSTMENT (COLA) salary increases are linked to a rise in the cost of goods and services. They are designed to help employees maintain (rather than increase) their purchasing power.
In the past, these increases have often been awarded to all employees. They are now used less frequently, because of vast differences in local and regional pay markets (e.g., pay in San Jose, Ca., is approximately 41% higher than the national average). The increase in the number of remote workers in multiple locations also reduces the effectiveness of this type of salary increase.
Susan Palé, CCP, is vice president for compensation with Affinity HR Group. Reach her at (877) 660-6400 or contact@affinityhrgroup.com.
WHAT WE SAY is important. There is a right time to ask questions, follow up questions and a right time to close. But more important than what we say is how we say it. We may say the coolest thing in the world, but if we sound nervous, too aggressive, or uncertain even if what we are saying is true, it will be difficult for our potential customers to believe and buy from us.
Goosebumps
We cannot control goosebumps. We can’t stop them from coming any more than we can make them happen. Goosebumps are involuntarily triggered in the “flight or fight” part of our brain, the amygdala. This is the part of the brain that our tone(s) speak to, so if our tone is bad our customers can’t help but be reluctant to buy, and if our tone is good, they can’t help but want to buy from us.
Tone for Receptionists
Most salespeople are professionally polite with receptionists—they are not rude—but the majority treat the receptionist like furniture; they even call them “gate keepers”!
The Master Seller’s tone is friendly, warm and not in a hurry when speaking with the receptionist. Their pace is slower and more deliberate than normal. They have a slight smile on their face. This makes it easier for the receptionist to understand the voice they are hearing for the first time.
Master Seller: “Good morning. This is Sarah Hopson with ABC Wholesale out of Jonesboro, Ar. How are you today?” Moving our intonation up on the “you” makes it sincere. Maybe some small talk, depending on the vibe from the receptionist then… “Could you tell me who does your lumber buying please?”
Students often ask me, “Why do I have to tell them who I’m with and where I’m calling from?” Because the receptionist wants to know, even if they don’t know they want to know, so now we have scratched an itch they didn’t know they had! It also helps us stand out from the crowd of salespeople who don’t do it.
Tone for Promotion
When we are proposing something to our customers we should have a tone of excitement. Jordan Belfort calls it “Bottled Enthusiasm,” meaning we sound enthusiastic but not exaggeratedly so. With an upbeat tone, we should give them several reasons what we are proposing is a good deal.
Tone for Closing
After we give the customer the reasons what we are promoting is a good deal we change our tone from excitement to a positively assumptive tone. We sound like we know they are going to say yes. This is part of our pre-call psyche up. We must convince ourselves that what we are offering is a good deal—enthusiasm—and then we must convince ourselves before the call that the customer will say yes.
The “We know they are going to say yes” tone is not arrogant; it is a what I call a “positively naïve” tone. It’s the tone we use when we offer a friend something we know they are going to say yes to.
This sounds simple, but after getting a series of “no’s” many sellers start to sound the opposite. They have what I call the “You’re probably not going to buy this but…” tone. That’s why positive pre-call self-talk is important.
Overcoming Objections Tone
The highest level of technical sales skills is overcoming an objection and closing. When a customer gives us an objection we:
- 1. Don’t say anything! Many sellers say things like, “OK” or “Gotcha” even before the customer has finished the objection! Don’t. This means, “You’re right, I give up.”
- 2. Count to three. This makes the customer feel they we have heard them and are considering what they have said. In addition, customers will often restart with the real objection if we are patient.
- 3. Then we say, “I completely understand what you are saying, but let me tell you why in this circumstance we should put this together.”
Our tone is relaxed and sincere. If we are nervous, overly aggressive, or whiny, the chances of overcoming the objection and closing are infinitesimally small.
Vary Our Tone
Monotone is a killer in sales. We don’t have to be sing-songy, but we must vary our tone, or we will bore our customers.
James Olsen is principal of Reality Sales Training, Portland, Or. Call him at (503) 544-3572 or email james@realitysalestraining.com.
LATEST ISSUES
TRENDING PRODUCTS
FastenMaster has launched two new additions to its fastener line: the VersaLOK Structural Wood Screw and the MVP Multipurpose Wood Screw.
VersaLOK provides the strength of a 1/2” lag bolt with the installation ease and speed of a LOK. The flat-head, heavy-duty wood screw comes in 6”, 8” and 10” lengths, does not require predrilling, offers higher design shear strength than 1/2” lag bolts, and has a TORX ttap drive system for stable installation and a ProjectLife coating guaranteed for the life of the project. It’s ideal for angle bracing, retaining walls, and carrying beam connections.
The MVP Multipurpose Wood Screw is designed for framing, cabinetry, and other wood-to-wood applications. The 10-gauge fasteners feature a TORX ttap drive, SureSink head to prevent spin outs, ProjectLife coating for superior corrosion resistance, and SureStart Point for easy installation, in lengths from 1” to 4”.
FASTENMASTER.COM
(800) 518-3569
Feeney’s new Stainless Steel Intermediate Pickets for DesignRail offer a sleek alternative to square, powder-coated pickets, providing an even lower profile alternative for DesignRail with CableRail infill where posts are spaced more than 3 ft. apart.
Available in three configurations (36” Level, 42” Level, Universal Stair), the 5/8” diameter 316 stainless steel tubes are pre-drilled for 1/8” diameter cable at 3” spacing, and are field trimmable.
(800) 888-2418
Bosch Power Tools has entered the drywall category by launching an 18V brushless 1/4” hex screwgun and a brushless cut-out tool.
The GTB18V-45 screwgun includes variable speed for controlled operating speed, while the GCU18V30 18V cut-out tool has soft-start technology to reduce startup torque. Both have brushless motor technology to provide the power user and get the job done when working with and cutting through drywall.
Both are cordless and feature ergonomic handles.
(877) 267-2499
Glow Path Pavers are a great way to light any paved, recreational area, adding a modern feel while maintaining the appearance of classic brick pavers.
Sun-powered aggregates are integrated into the surface of each paver, providing a subtle, continuous glow for six to eight hours after dark.
The pavers deliver low-level illumination and visual accents to pedestrian walkways, pool decks and backyards while improving safety in unlit areas.
(833) 456-7284
Andersen Windows & Doors is expanding its E-Series product line to include white oak. The new species option allows consumers to choose from a variety of factory finishes including a clear coat option to achieve a neutral, natural interior.
E-Series windows are made to customers’ exact specifications for unmatched flexibility and design freedom, offering 50 standard exterior colors, custom colors and anodized finishes, plus a range of interior wood species and interior stains.
(323) 426-4261
Simpson Strong-Tie has introduced the Strong-Drive PPHD Sheathing-to-CFS screw, a multipurpose, self-drilling, pilot point screw suitable for attaching sheathing, drywall, or subflooring to cold-formed steel framing.
Designed as an update to the existing PPSD Sheathing-to-CFS screw, the PPHD features a larger #5 pilot point with a longer flute and comes in popular #8 sizes. In addition, the fastener has buttress threads and a new dog-eared point for improved drilling performance through sheathing and metal.
PPHD screws can be purchased in bulk quantities for hand-drive applications or collated for auto-feed driving with the Simpson Strong-Tie Quik Drive PRO300SG2, PRO250G2, and PRO200SG2 auto-feed screw-driving systems. The fasteners are also available in two levels of corrosion resistance—the Quik Guard coating is suitable for a wide variety of exterior applications and the yellow-zinc coating is for dry-service and low-corrosion environments.
STRONGTIE.COM/PPHD
(866) 252-8606
CAMO is moving beyond deck-top solutions to offer a new line of structural screws that are engineered to start fast, drive smooth, and hold strong, with no pre-drilling required.
Rigorously tested and approved for use with pressure-treated lumber, the fasteners are IRC and IBC code-compliant and great for trusses, rafters, multi-ply beams, deck posts, beams, railings and general multi- purpose construction.
All structural screws feature CAMO’s Protech Ultra 4 coating for corrosion resistance.
The CAMO Structural Screw line includes 6” Truss Screws, Multi-Ply Screws are available in specific lengths for both sawn and structural composite lumber beams, Ledger Screws, 2” and 3” Framing Screws, and Multi-Purpose Screws in Flat and Hex heads.
(800) 968-6245
Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas has launched the new Cat DP60HP-DP100CP forklift series—13,000 to 22,000 lb. capacity internal combustion pneumatic tire trucks built to lift and haul heavy loads in lumberyards, distribution centers, and other challenging environments.
Its turbocharged, electronically controlled Kubota V3800 diesel engine pours out massive torque at low rpm—producing very low emissions. A class-leading four-cylinder common rail turbo diesel EPA Tier 4 engine produces high power at all times.
A heavy duty clear-view mast contributes to faster cycle times. Simplified design with fewer service points means quicker, simpler maintenance. And a large meter panel features a warning system that alerts the operator to help protect the machine’s critical components.
(713) 365-1000
Fortress Building Products’ new Fe26 Axis horizontal steel railing delivers sought-after contemporary aesthetic to decks, front porches, patios and balconies.
Backed by a 15-year limited warranty, it is offered in Black Sand, and can also be used for indoor applications.
Axis is the newest infill option for Fe26, Fortress’ panelized, quick-to-install railing system.
(866) 323-4766
Avery Dennison Performance Tapes is rolling out a interior surface bonding solutions for the building and construction segment. Offered are nine pressure-sensitive tapes featuring a variety of adhesive technologies applicable for bonding materials to commercial and residential interior surfaces.
Strong, durable, flexible and easy to use, the tapes can join, mount, attach or fasten without the use of mechanical fasteners or wet glue systems.
Applications include wall mounting, backsplashes/tiles, ceilings, flooring and blinds.
(866) 462-8379
Combilift’s new Combi-CSS is a free-standing, electric-powered, semi-automated machine for loading and unloading of 20-ft., 40-ft., and 53-ft. containers transporting lumber and panel products.
It has a container-chassis docking system and a bi-direction, horizontally moving Hardox Steel Slip-Sheet with a capacity of 65,000 lbs.
To load, the container-chassis docks to the CSS and the pre-loaded slip-sheet powers into the container. With the load inside the container, a gate closes across the doorway, securing the load until the slip-sheet retracts. To unload, the container-chassis docks to the CSS, and the slip-sheet power-glides under the load into the container.
With a single operator, it enables cycle times of six minutes with greater safety and less product handling, lift-truck use, and product damage.
(877) 266-2456
Big Joe Forklifts is rolling out two new material handlers featuring lithium power supplies, extremely compact chassis designs, and power steering.
The RPL44 Rider Pallet Truck features a 24-volt AC drive motor, capable of transporting pallets weighing up to 4,400 lbs. at speeds up to 5 mph. Reportedly the smallest rider pallet truck on the market, it can operate efficiently in congested areas with the same duty-cycle of larger and heavier machines thanks to its onboard 205ah lithium battery and 120vac opportunity charger.
The PTT60 Pedestrian Tow Tractor provides 6,000 lbs. of easy-to-control towing capacity in the palm of your hand.
(800) 424-4563
Milwaukee engineered the new M12 Green Cross Line & 4-Points Laser to offer the brightest green beams, all-day run-time, and easier set-up, for improved jobsite efficiency.
When paired with an M12 RedLithium CP 3.0 battery, users get at least nine hours of continuous run-time for ultimate productivity. The high-intensity green laser offers users superior visibility for long-range applications up to 125 ft. The vertical and horizontal lines allow for easier alignment and leveling applications, while the plumb points help with floor-to-ceiling point transfer, and the horizontal dots squaring points give users the option for quick and accurate squaring alignment.
It’s fitted with amplified rare earth magnets, providing a secure hold and ensuring it won’t slide on steel studs. It is impact rated for drops up to 1 meter.
The kit Includes: Green Cross Line, 4-Points Laser, responsive laser alignment target, M12 RedLithium CP 3.0 battery, battery charger, and carrying case.
(800) 729-3878
The newest Rehau surface line, RAUVISIO ingrain wood fiber laminate, combines natural wood fibers with synchronized etching for a luxurious veneer aesthetic.
New to the North American market, wood fiber laminate is cellulose fibers derived from wood pulp bonded using vegetable-based adhesives, resulting in a high-performing, sustainable surface. With high-definition printing and precision duo-gloss embossing, its immersive patterns deliver an atmosphere of eco-conscience luxury to designed spaces.
It comes in three color groups—the bold Timeless, sunny Horizon, and impactful Atmosphere collections, including 15 colors of PSA laminate and edgeband as well as double-sided boards, finished panels and modern cabinet doors. The wood-fiber paper is crafted in Italy, laid-up stateside on a particleboard core using PUR glue and seamlessly finished with LaserEdge for a monolithic effect.
(800) 247-9445
The fourth generation of Metal Devil circular saw blades from The M. K. Morse Co. delivers unrivaled blade life and surface finish for steel, stainless steel, and aluminum/non-ferrous applications.
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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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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
Latin America
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North America (US & Canada)
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
Be sure to subscribe to the TimberTown YouTube Channel and click on the notification bell to be the first to get the latest TimberTips video!
TimberTips is a weekly video series highlighting information worth knowing about lumber products and projects. From product reviews and comparisons to installation tips and home tours, our goal is to keep you informed on what’s out there and how you can use it on your next project.
Watch the video here:
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.
