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INDUSTRY NEWS
Browne’s Home Center, Friday Harbor, Wa., unveiled its major remodeling during a VIP Night and ribbon cutting ceremony on Sept. 15, followed the next day with a community-friendly event that attracted over 500 customers and neighbors.
Parent TAL Building Centers renovated the existing space, which included combining several buildings into one cohesive space, which enlarged the retail area from 14,000 sq. ft. to 28,450 ft. Within the revamped space, customers can expect such modern amenities as a dedicated design center, full-service paint center, specialized contractor sales desk with a unique art installation, and for the retail customer, an efficient line queue for checkout.
With the larger footprint, the core categories of paint, electrical, plumbing, hand and power tools, and lawn & garden were bolstered with enhanced offerings. Browne’s also added more home goods, clothing, pet supplies, RV and marine.
The location also boasts a 27,000 sq. ft. all-organic garden center.
The recent 2023 LMC Leadership Summit in Columbus, Oh., brought together LMC dealers for a pivotal moment in leadership evolution, focusing on practical concepts to shape their future.
The event was led by Kathy Pearson, president and founder of Enterprise Learning Solutions, who shared insights on achieving “Business Excellence.”
John Humphrey of North Atlantic Corp., Somerset, Ma., noted, “The LMC Leadership Summit is an important setting for current and up-and-coming industry leaders to build relationships with one another, and to discuss innovative ways to improve our businesses in the near future.”
Dr. Angus Fletcher, an Ohio State professor known for his leadership development work, introduced “Simple Not Easy,” a new leadership training program rooted in the wisdom of U.S. Army Special Operations. Dr. Fletcher’s sessions tackled leadership challenges with practical solutions, providing insights into cognitive barriers and actionable strategies for improvement.
Melissa Johnson, VP of Cameron Mitchell Premier Events & Community Relations, discussed how faith in people and a culture of hospitality have driven Cameron Mitchell Restaurants’ success. This conversation highlighted the importance of culture in shaping the company’s identity and operations.
Dr. Fletcher continued to empower leaders on the second day, offering insights into envisioning the future, team empowerment, emotional intelligence, and innovation. Attendees learned techniques for sharpening foresight, making informed decisions, and navigating complex situations confidently.
Lanny Rubin, assistant VP of technology staff operations at Nationwide Insurance, shared Nationwide’s success in crafting a strategic multi-year plan while enhancing the customer experience. Lanny emphasized the importance of aligning long-term planning with a company’s vision and values.
Kelsey Paasch, founder of Contour Consulting, guided attendees in designing deliberate steps and routines for their leadership journey. Real-life examples and proven strategies facilitated the creation of personalized strategic plans.
The Summit was more than just an event; it was a platform for transformation, set to redefine leadership in the LBM industry. Attendees left Columbus inspired and ready to pioneer a new era in leadership excellence with practical insights and a memorable networking experience.
“The Summit was a practical source in giving me tactical ways to strengthen my leadership as an individual and improve our team as a whole,” said Allison Carter, Builders Supply Co., Lancaster, S.C.

Aubuchon Co. signed on as an affiliate of Ace Hardware and will rebrand the majority of its locations.
Over the next three years, 76 of its 112 stores will be rebranded to Ace, while the others will remain independent due to their proximity to existing Ace stores.
Seattle, Wa.-based electronic lumber marketplace startup Yesler is looking to expand its team after raising $5 million.
Matt Meyers, founder and CEO of Yesler, told the Puget Sound Business Journal that his company currently has about a dozen employees, all based in the Seattle area. He said the funding could allow Yesler could to double its workforce in the next 12 to 18 months, with the majority continuing to be based in the region.
Park Hardware celebrated its grand opening in Severna Park, Md., with special events, product demonstrations, live entertainment, and giveaways for home improvement shoppers on Sept. 15.
Representatives from the Greater Severna Park and Arnold Chamber of Commerce kicked off the celebration with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Following the ceremony, participants enjoyed product demonstrations with representatives from brands like Big Green Egg and Diablo Tool, as well as live entertainment from the School of Rock House Band.
The first 100 community members to visit the new store received a voucher for a free sub from Truck of Deliciousness food truck, as well as a voucher for a free snow cone from Go Melvo Snoballs. Community members also had the opportunity to win door prizies, including Park Hardware-branded apparel, a Solo Stove, and a MiniMax Big Green Egg.
Park Hardware and Zeskind’s Hardware & Millwork owner and president Rick Miller Jr. acquired Clement Hardware in April, which carried a reputation of having knowledgeable staff who know their customers by name, and immediately began a store redesign, changing the name to Park Hardware.
“It wouldn’t feel right putting my family’s name on a Severna Park icon,” Miller said. “This store belongs to the people and the town of Severna Park, and so Park Hardware is the only option in my opinion.”
The new store includes Zeskind’s Door & Window Showroom, a decorative/architectural hardware showroom featuring a combination of doors, windows, and decorative hardware. It also offers comprehensive home improvement products and services. The store’s modern design; clean, organized layout; and wide product selection all combine to make it an ideal resource and destination for both DIYers and professional contractors alike.
Working closely with his co-op team at Do it Best—an international distributor of hardware, lumber, and building material products—Miller planned the new store redesign, ensuring each detail was carefully thought out to provide the best possible shopping experience. The store retained all full- and part-time employees of Clement Hardware.
“This project means a lot to me personally, having grown up in Severna Park,” said Miller, who is a Severna Park native. “I can’t emphasize enough the amount of respect I have for the Clement family, and their amazing team of people. Having the opportunity to carry on the legacy of this store is a responsibility we do not take lightly.”
Stine Home & Yard, Sulphur, La., has acquired the assets of 51-year-old Fruge Lumber, Eunice, La.
“We’re excited to locate in Eunice, a community we’ve been serving peripherally for many years from our Crowley and Jennings stores,” said CEO Dan Stine. The Eunice store opened Aug. 28 as the 11th Stine location in Louisiana.
Boise Cascade, Boise, Id., is adding a door shop in Commerce City, Co., a suburb of Denver. The 127,000-sq. ft. millwork facility is scheduled to be complete in the fourth quarter of 2023 and is expected to begin production shortly after the first of the year.
“We are excited that this new facility will allow us to expand our offering of pre-hung doors and other millwork products in one of the country’s fastest growing markets,” said Bud Skinner, millwork business development manager.
“Our new state-of-the-art facility in the Denver market will complement our full-line distribution business,” said Jerry Bandel, Denver branch manager. “We look forward to providing high service levels and we will work to integrate and leverage our sales team’s abilities as we ramp up the millwork production capabilities.”
Two employees and five contractors were arrested in connection with a theft ring that cost Cason Builders Supply, East Flat Rock, N.C., an estimated $180,000.
According to the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office, the workers were selling Cason inventory to local businesses without Cason’s knowledge or consent.
Employees Jose Ruben Huerta and Marcelino Huerta were charged with, respectively, 40 counts and 18 counts of felony larceny by employee and felony conspiracy. Facing multiple counts apiece for aiding and abetting are the owners of A&L Landscaping, HH Concrete, Ramirez Landscaping, Primo’s Wall Masonry, and JHCC Construction.
One longstanding lumber location and one newly acquired are embracing the new branding under Mead Lumber with a name change. Teague Lumber in Kansas City, Mo., and Rock Creek Lumber in Red Lodge, Mt., will now operate under the Mead Lumber name. This name change streamlines the Mead Lumber brand across its 52 operating locations in nine states.
Teague Lumber’s transition comes a year after its acquisition by Mead Lumber in 2022. Rock Creek Lumber was purchased by Mead Lumber in 2016, and the name change aligns with Mead Lumbers new branding efforts.
Both locations will continue to provide the same level of dedicated service and product offerings that their communities have come to trust. The rebranding is a change in name, with operations at both sites remaining consistent.
Customers and those interested in learning more about these changes are encouraged to visit the Mead Lumber website, to get in touch with the respective locations directly, or contact Mead Lumber’s Marketing department.
Nation’s Best, Dallas, Tx., has acquired two-unit Adams Building Supplies, Inc. of Georgia.
Founded in 1917, Adams is a fourth-generation business caters to the high-end custom home builder segment with a heavy mix of premium lumber and building material products. “Our continued growth comes from adding best-in-class stores across the country,” said Kevin Pierce, regional VP for Nation’s Best. “Adams Building Supplies has become a market leader, with well-run pro stores offering top-notch drive-through indoor yards. With locations in Hartwell and Toccoa, they’re also strategically located midway between Nation’s Best locations in the Carolinas, which will only strengthen our network and serve the area even better.”
Sister and brother owners Andrea A. Anderegg and Julian Adams are excited for the future of their family business. “It takes a lot of dedicated people to run a successful business and we’ve been blessed to have a team of trusted managers and associates over the years. We’re thrilled to know that Adams Building Supplies will now be in the hands of an experienced home improvement company like Nation’s Best and that our valued team will continue to be there every day to serve our community.”
Adams Building Supplies are the first Georgia-based businesses for Nation’s Best, now with 51 locations in 15 states. As part of Nation’s Best’s strategy, Adams Building Supplies will lease the real estate from the owners, maintain operations under their existing name, and retain the core team overseeing company operations alongside Nation’s Best, which will provide the strategic and financial support necessary to drive optimal growth and profitability.
To enhance its presence in the U.S., Chilean-based Empresas CMPC SA has agreed to acquire Heritage Millworks, LLC (dba Powell Valley Millwork), Lexington, Ky.
“This is a fundamental step in the history of CMPC,” said Luis Felipe Gazitúa, chairman of the board at CMPC. “Although our products have been marketed in the United States for decades, we will now be able to produce them here, drawing on the experience and know-how of a specialist company like Powell Valley Millwork.”
A global corporation with more than 100 years of providing sustainable solutions, CMPC has long been an innovator in the marketing of wood, cellulose, packaging products, sanitary products, non-home products, and tissue paper. The acquisition will add a leader in domestic millwork manufacturing to a global company with industrial and business activities in a dozen countries across the world.
“This investment decision is an important step in our strategic growth plan in the United States and brings us closer to our customers in North America, which is a fundamental pillar of our strategic plan,” said CEO Francisco Ruiz-Tagle. “At CMPC, we are convinced that natural fiber-based products are the mainstay of the economy today and especially in the future.”
Radiata pine holds a significant position as one of the most consumed millwork products in the U.S. market. The Powell Valley facilities have the production capacity to supply volume programs across North America plus the location to provide streamlined logistics with robust customer service.
“As the market continues to evolve, we recognize the need to adapt and seize opportunities to thrive in the dynamic landscape of our business,” said Juan Pablo Pereira Sutil, managing director, CMPC Wood Products. “By combining our production capabilities, we aim to secure a larger market share and introduce a broader range of products, including radiata pine and poplar offerings, while serving our customers with a much stronger value proposition.”
“The decision to partner with CMPC marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Powell Valley family,” said Jimmy Thornberry, president of Powell Valley Millwork.
Powell Valley has a strong history in manufacturing dating back to the early 1990s when Jimmy and his father, Jim Thornberry, began at their Jeffersonville, Ky., location. With nearly three decades of industry experience, the company has maintained growth in market share and profitability by introducing new programs while keeping a commitment to customer service.
CMPC and Powell Valley have aggressive growth plans in the U.S. and will begin expanding the assets at both production sites to maintain their existing poplar programs and facilitate the introduction of radiata pine manufacturing and distribution from Kentucky. Powell Valley currently employs more than 200 personnel with immediate demand for hiring skilled positions.
Hoyt’s Ace Hardware, Rancho Cucamonga, Ca., will close by Oct. 20 after 97 years in business.
The business was founded in Ontario, Ca., by S.M. Hoyt—grandfather of current owners—and relocated four decades ago to Rancho Cucamonga.
At 73, co-owner Frank Nelson is ready to retire. He floated sale of the 11,200-sq. ft. through the Ace Hardware network, but got no takers. So he, his two brothers, and his sister decided to sell the two-acre property and it is now in escrow.
Mid-America Lumbermens Association has merged with Northwestern Lumber Association to create one of the largest building material trade associations in the industry.
MLA represents building material dealers and suppliers in Arkansas, Kansas & Missouri, while NLA covers Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. The combined organizations will operate under the Northwestern Lumber Association umbrella until further notice and will represent over 1,800 building material dealers and over 150 suppliers/manufacturers.
NLA president Cody Nuernberg said, “Joining these long-time industry support groups together as one is a momentous occasion and one that has been diligently planned over the past four years. NLA has served as the managing partner of MLA since 2019 and has enjoyed helping the organization grow its membership footprint and its offerings. By merging the MLA and NLA membership base, the association expands networking opportunities for all members, connecting them to broader resources for products, services, education opportunities and advocacy. This merger also allows for broader reach for education and event offerings and will extend our visibility to invite new members into the organization. We are stronger together!
MLA president Brett Thorne added, “This is an exciting announcement for our members and all the dealers and suppliers that have supported our region over the years. Together, we are expanding our community and increasing the opportunities for growth and support that our retailers require. We are excited to officially join NLA and continue to ‘build’ a thriving industry!”
As part of the merger, all MLA members in good standing will receive membership with Northwestern Lumber Association until Sept. 30, 2023. NLA will continue to produce MLA’s annual events and educational offerings and provide field support via a dedicated regional field manager.
Mark your calendars for Monday October 2, when Kruse Enterprises, Albuquerque, N.M., will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a special party. Drinks begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner.
The company was formed in 1998 by Don Kruse and his son, Greg Kruse. Don was one of the original founders of Sagebrush Sales in 1964 and ran the business until 1995, when Greg took over as president, until 1998, when it was acquired by Idaho Timber Corp.
LATEST ISSUES
TRENDING PRODUCTS
LP Building Solutions’ new Brushed Smooth texture for its SmartSide ExpertFinish siding and trim features a subtle linear brushed finish that gives exteriors a modern look. It is available in ExpertFinish’s 16 colors.
The line will roll out regionally, starting in the Northeast, Midwest and North Central.
LPCORP.COM
(888) 820-0325
Protecto Wall VP is a primer- free self-adhering, self-sealing vapor permeable weather resistive barrier that can be applied in temperatures down to -20°F and up to 125°F.
The fully adhered membrane utilizes Super Stick Technology Adhesive, eliminating the need for mechanical fasteners, seam tape, or primer. It is compatible with and will adhere to most construction surfaces while maintaining a drainage efficiency of 98.5%.
It comes in full 40”x120’ rolls and 12”x120’ Detail Strip rolls for use along edges and corners. All sizes come with multiple split releases on the back for ease and speed of installation.
PROTECTOWRAP.COM
(800) 759-9727
Diablo Tools has added to its line of Amped carbide teeth reciprocating saw blades with two new blades: general purpose and medium metal blades.
The blades offer first-in-the-world technology, Titanium Cobalt (TiCo) Hi-Density Carbide and Black I.C.E. coating, to deliver extreme efficiency, cutting life, and versatility in wood and metal demolition and cutting applications.
They reportedly provide up to 100 times longer cutting life of standard bi-metal blades and up to double the performance of standard carbide blades.
DIABLO TOOLS.COM
(800) 263-7016
Outlive has expanded its Millboard product line with the debut of the Enhanced Grain Slim Board.
The multi-use 126mm (4.96”) deck board can be used alongside the standard 176mm (6.92”) Enhanced Grain board for a unique design alternating every other board, in a random pattern, or the Slim Board can be used as picture frame edging or to define a certain area of a deck.
The only decking hand-molded from natural oak timbers for unmatched texture and variation, it has a strong polymer core that provides structure while also resisting the elements. Boards require minimal maintenance, are slip resistant, and won’t warp or rot from moisture decay, algae, or harbor insects.
OUTLIVE.INFO
(651) 207-4175
Paslode’s new Cordless 1-1/2” Positive Placement Metal Connector Nailer features a Positive Placement nose probe, which helps quickly find metal connector holes and drive nails with precision and speed without the need of a hose or compressor.
At only 6.7 lbs., the tool’s light weight and compact design allow for easy use overhead and in tight spaces. Designed to achieve maximum productivity, the fuel cell lasts 800 shots and the battery fully charged lasts around 9,000 nails.
(800) 222-6990
DMSi has launched Frameworks, an LBM point-of-sale/ERP system that runs completely on the web. An end-to-end system, it handles retail POS, contractor sales, purchasing, inventory control, accounting and reporting. Accessed through a web browser, it has a mobile-friendly design so it can be used from a smartphone or tablet as easily as from a desktop computer.
The POS screen is easy to learn, making it ideal for seasonal or part-time staff. The project management dashboard lets service reps manage multi-job builds from one place, centralizing orders, tasks, pick tickets, deliveries and invoices. The eCommerce/service portal lets customers review products, pricing and account records. Pricing controls simplify challenges around rebates, special buys, and contract pricing.
DMSI.COM
(402) 330-6620
CUTEK wood care products now feature a cleaner, more cohesive look across all products, providing a more apparent connection between the products, with each one indicating whether it is Step 1: Prepare or Step 2: Protect.
Each Prepare product has its own color theme, but the same set-up and feel as the CUTEK Extreme label. The Prepare box is highlighted and checked, but the Step 2: Protect box is visible, to indicate that these products are all part of a system.
(844) 442-8835
Johnson’s easy-to-install sliding wall-mount door hardware can be used in any room of the home to install nearly any type of door panel.
Soft-Close hardware is also available, helping to prevent pinched fingers and door slamming, while the durable extruded aluminum tracks ensure smooth operation and longtime durability.
(574) 293-5664
Simpson Strong-Tie has introduced a new line of fire wall hangers designed to be installed with a power nailer during framing, saving time before hanging drywall and keeping construction projects on schedule.
The patent-pending DGT and DGHT fire wall hangers are designed for floor-to-wall connections in multistory, multifamily construction. They carry a two-hour fire rating and install quickly and easily to help improve productivity and efficiency on busy multifamily jobsites.
Load rated for fastening with either power-driven or hand-installed nails, the hangers can be attached before drywall installation to speed sequencing of trades on the jobsite. They’re also designed as one-piece connectors with no welding or additional components required, resulting in quicker lead times.
(800) 999-5099
Raymond has introduced two lift trucks designed for emissions-free electric performance and outdoor capability: the 4800 and 4810 80-volt sit-down counterbalanced trucks. The new pneumatic series provides all the needed capacities from 4,000 to 11,000 lbs.
Both models feature the Raymond Performance Stability System, which offers a high level of vehicle control for reduced damage to goods and facilities. Both give users an ergonomically designed operator station featuring a full-suspension and fully adjustable seat with an attached armrest and fingertip hydraulic controls with factory sideshift.
(800) 235-7200
Werner’s new Lock-In Tool Bag clicks onto the top of LockTop ladders to safely store and access a wide range of tools.
A shoulder strap adds safety while allowing for three points of contact while climbing. Made with water-resistant material for harsh conditions on the jobsite, the bag has interior and exterior pockets with velcro closure. A removable divider allows for precise tool organization, while a tool clip adds storage outside the bag.
(888) 523-3371
Combilift’s new Combi-CB70E is the shortest 7t capacity counterbalance truck on the market, while also benefitting from multi-directional ability, enabling the versatile space-saving handling of long and bulky loads.
Its large, super-elastic tires and compact wheelbase make it ideally suited for the demands of the lumber industry. With a 7,000kg/15,500-lb. lift capacity, it has an impressively small footprint as well as exceptional manueverability for performing in confined spaces.
Features in the gas-strut-suspension cab include generous glazing for all-round visibility, tilting steering column, hydraulic steering, and Grammer MSG65 seat.
COMBILIFT.COM
(877) 266-2456
Sporting a popular T-shaped top rail, Trex Select T-Rail composite railing system is designed to make the beauty and convenience of Trex’s composite and aluminum railing available to a wider audience with pricing that competes head-to-head with PVC vinyl railing.
Engineered for ease, efficiency and economic value, it has a classic T design on top with a choice of two infill options: square composite balusters in Classic White for a cohesive, coordinated look, or round aluminum balusters in Charcoal Black for a more modern contrast. Full-span top and bottom rails in Classic White are offered in 36” and 42” heights and 6’ and 8’ lengths.
The system uses a low-profile, underside bracket system for quick, easy assembly.
TREX.COM
(800) 289-8739
Rosboro Co. has launched a new fire-retardant-treated (FRT) glulam product designed for Type III construction.
Rosboro X-Rim FRT is UL Classified, carries APA certified design values, and is backed with factory warranties from Rosboro and Hoover Treated Wood Products. Building codes require FRT wood to be used in certain wall assemblies, but until now the only available FRT materials were framing lumber and plywood.
As reportedly the only code accepted EWP framing solution for FRT wall assemblies, the product removes the need for costly detailing and eliminates the risk of unapproved treatments being red-tagged.
X-Rim FRT is available in 3-1/2” and 5-1/2” widths to match wall framing, in depths compatible with all floor framing systems.
ROSBORO.COM
(888) 393-2304
Houseworks Group USA introduces Hammer Fist, an innovative multi-tool capable of numerous DIY tasks, from hammering to measuring and opening bottles.
Ideal for all ages and skill levels, the neon green tool functions as a non-marring mallet, 90˚ square, SAE and metric ruler, dual nail puller, bottle opener, hex driver, and ball peen hammer.
Measuring 5”x3-1/2”x1-5/8” and weighing 14 oz., it has an ergonomic rubber handle steel frame.
(770) 579-9897
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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.
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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.
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Typical Customers of Coatings for Prefinishing
- Architects
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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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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.
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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.