When it comes to lumber dealers filling an order for a particular buyer, specificity is key to customer satisfaction (see Part 1). In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences in how builders perceive lumber grades and what the grading system actually entails. As a dealer, recognizing and explaining these vital distinctions […]
Construction
Going Beyond Lumber Grades, Part 1
If you’re a lumber dealer, you’ve probably been involved in countless discussions with builders who are looking for “Grade A” lumber of a certain species. Instead of getting specific about how they actually want the wood they’re ordering to look or perform, these builders, who are pressed for time, expect their suppliers to quickly and […]
Choosing the Ideal Pool Design for Your Outdoor Space
Just like people, pools come in all different shapes and sizes. If you’re considering installing a backyard pool, one of the first and most important decisions you’ll need to make is which pool design will work best for you. Basic Considerations When you meet with a pool contractor, be sure to get plenty of sound […]
What Teak Customers Need To Do in the Wake of the Myanmar Ban
In April 2016, newly elected government officials in Myanmar banned all logging activities for the country. While Teak is a major species affected, other species would be included as well. In addition to a much-needed 10-year ban on logging in the Pegu Yoma region, a 1-year national ban was scheduled to expire this past March […]
Thinking Outside the Trends: Utile as a Mahogany Alternative
Amid questions about Genuine Mahogany’s future, one species that’s an excellent Mahogany alternative deserves a little more attention. Referred to by both the name “Utile” and the name “Sipo,” this African species offers many of the same characteristics as Genuine Mahogany. Since it’s more readily available as well as more affordable than Genuine Mahogany, we […]
Thinking Outside the Trends: Red Balau Decking, Part 2
Red Balau may well be the best kept secret among tropical decking enthusiasts (see Part 1). Not only is it nearly as hard and durable as industry-wide favorites like Ipe and Cumaru, but its appearance is even more consistent! With the same reddish-brown coloring as other tropical decking lumber species, this gem from Indonesia is […]
Thinking Outside the Trends: Red Balau Decking, Part 1
While Red Balau is far from new to the decking market, it’s clearly not as trendy as Ipe or Cumaru. As part of the Shorea genus, Red Balau is related, so to speak, to species such as Meranti and Philippine Mahogany, both of which are commonly used for marine applications and other exterior work. An […]
Rehmeyer Hardwood Floors: Where Beauty Meets Variety
Hardwood floors are smart, but that’s not the only reason people love them! In fact, maybe the fact that they’re a healthy, durable, low-maintenance flooring choice just makes us feel a little less guilty about indulging our senses in their beauty. (Or maybe not — it’s just a little theory I have.) Regardless of any […]
5 Advantages of Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings
Cost: When working with steel there are no excess materials left over because there is a specific calculation of how much steel per building size. So, you are only paying for the materials being used and not the lumber that is usually left behind when building with wood. Also, labor costs decrease dramatically because of […]
Guide to Decking Installation- Mind the Gap, Part 2
As we discussed in Part 1, when a customer requests a certain size gap in their decking, you need to ask them when they would like that size gap. Depending on the season and climate in which you install the deck, that perfect ¼-inch gap may widen to a ridiculous size in the coming months […]