News & Updates

Navigating Your Business in Uncertain Times

April 24th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

While the ride in the building materials industry has been pretty incredible the past couple of years, the truth is that a potential slowdown is looming. We can hope for changes addressing inflation and high interest rates, but in the meantime the focus should be on what you can control. Choose to take this time to finally take a breath and reevaluate your business and strategy.

 

Here are my favorite tips for how dealers can plan for continued success now and in the future!

Don’t be afraid to diversify and pursue new channels of business.

Review your sales percentages by channel, i.e. new construction, remodel, multi-family, etc. Identify ways to get more involved in each channel of business to help insulate yourself in the event there is a slowdown in one of the channels.

Review all operating costs and ensure you are maximizing your spend at every turn.

Oftentimes we see sales growth on the topline and are very happy with those results. But with sales growth comes increased operating costs, so be sure you are dialed into the operating costs as a % of sales. That number is very important to pay attention to in order to drive incremental profit to your bottom line.

Are you able to stay cost-neutral but still grow your level of service to your customers?

For example, is there someone who is in a position today that could be better utilized in a different role? Or are there inventory dollars in a product line that is not turning and you would like help exiting that line and getting into a new line?  This type of creative thinking allows you to potentially offer an improved level of service to your customers without adding any cost to the bottom line.

Take advantage of your opportunities and use your connections.

Lumbermen’s is positioned to ensure you have a low-risk program and partner. One of our mottos is, “It’s about you, not me.” This means we will identify dealer-specific programming strategies that will help your business have the right product mix at the right price.

Identify new customers or new products.

Think of it in these terms…if I sell the same amount of pieces of the same products to the same customers in the coming year, will my business increase or decrease and will I be happy with those results? If you want to grow your market-share, one of the ways is to identify new customers or new products. Partner with Lumbermen’s to display a new product without stocking it and train up your sales team and customers to capitalize on new opportunities.

Marketing – sales is a contact sport!

Find new and innovative ways to connect with your customers via social media, e-mail campaigns, direct-mail, etc. If you do not have the resources to do this yourself, Lumbermen’s is willing to help. Reach out to marketing@lumbermens-inc.com to connect with our marketing team today!

Can my Distributor partner help me drive sales? YES, WE CAN!

We have Field Sales Reps (FSR’s) and an Events Coordinator that can help drive more leads and engagement to your location.  In addition to our Outside Sales Reps, we have layered on additional investments to help you sell more of the things you buy from us.

lumbermen thumbs up

The goal at Lumbermen’s is to walk alongside our dealer partners and to continue to offer top-notch service and support to help you grow your business. If you haven’t already, please schedule a time to meet with your Sales Rep to discuss a strategy that works for you.

Written by: Shawn Montague, VP of Building Materials

Piece By Piece Podcast, Episode 2: Developing Customer Relationships

Lumbermen’s is proud to present Episode 2 of our Piece By Piece business podcast. During this conversation, Shawn Montague, Vice President of Building Materials, dives in to the balance of achieving great results, while also caring for others. "Developing relationships with your customer requires providing value, while also achieving an understanding of each customer’s needs," [...]

4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we'll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2024. Step 1: Revamp Your Space One of the most impactful first impressions you can make on potential [...]

Unlocking Innovation: Door Industry Highlights from the International Builders Show 2024

Every year, Las Vegas welcomes members of the building industry to the International Builders Show, and Lumbermen’s was there, along with thousands of other folks from around the world! There is so much to see and do, it is hard to take it all in, so here are some highlights from our friends in the [...]

Piece By Piece Podcast, Episode 1: Business Strategies for 2024

  Welcome to Piece by Piece, a new Podcast by Lumbermen's! In this episode, Shawn Montague, VP of Building Materials, talks about strategies and expectations for 2024. "Find a way to create win-win scenarios between all the people that are involved in your business" was one strategy shared. Subscribe to us on YouTube to catch [...]

4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales in 2024

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we'll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2024. Step 1: Revamp Your Space One of the most impactful first impressions you can make on potential [...]

Taking Door Frames To The Next Level

Recently, Lumbermen’s took a group of dealer partners on a tour of GM Wood Products, a manufacturer that specializes in high performing door frame components. The group was impressed by what they saw from GM in terms of the company’s capabilities and offerings for 2024. GM Wood Products has a state of art facility with […]

3 Ways to Add Warmth with Stone, Beams and Wood Paneling Accents

When it comes to creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home, few design elements rival the timeless appeal of natural elements like stone and wood. Not only do they bring a touch of elegance, but they also add warmth and character to any space. Here we explore the transformative power of these products [...]

6 Advantages of Storm Doors

Storm doors are often an overlooked feature in many homes, yet they offer a wide range of benefits that can enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your living space. Here we explore the many advantages of storm doors, from energy efficiency and security to natural light and improving indoor comfort. Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Storm [...]

State of the Industry: Mid-Year Market Outlook

In this Q&A, Shawn Montague, VP of Building Materials, shares his perspective on the current state of the industry and offers advice for addressing economic concerns. He also offers some predictions for 2024 and encouragement on how to proceed with optimism!   Q: You spend a lot of time visiting and meeting with Dealers. As [...]

Door Color Trends

            Time to talk door color trends and in this article, we shine a light on popular exterior door colors. Last year, we saw Black become the color of choice for homeowners when it came to painting their exterior door, and according to Fixr.com, Black was once again king in […]

Holiday Door Décor Recommendations

Spread some holiday cheer this season without scratching your beautiful front door! ‘Tis the season to decorate, and that means sprucing up your front door! As homeowners, we want the entryway to our home to appear merry and bright, especially when the in-laws arrive. Here are some holiday tips from Lumbermen’s Door Division to ensure […]


Piece By Piece Podcast, Episode 2: Developing Customer Relationships

April 24th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

Lumbermen’s is proud to present Episode 2 of our Piece By Piece business podcast.

During this conversation, Shawn Montague, Vice President of Building Materials, dives in to the balance of achieving great results, while also caring for others. “Developing relationships with your customer requires providing value, while also achieving an understanding of each customer’s needs,” he shares.

Join us for a conversation about how Lumbermen’s approaches this topic, and gain insights to help enhance your own customer relationships!.

Subscribe to us on YouTube to catch new episodes.

4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we'll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2024. Step 1: Revamp Your Space One of the most impactful first impressions you can make on potential [...]

Taking Door Frames To The Next Level

Recently, Lumbermen’s took a group of dealer partners on a tour of GM Wood Products, a manufacturer that specializes in high performing door frame components. The group was impressed by what they saw from GM in terms of the company’s capabilities and offerings for 2024. GM Wood Products has a state of art facility with […]

3 Ways to Add Warmth with Stone, Beams and Wood Paneling Accents

When it comes to creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home, few design elements rival the timeless appeal of natural elements like stone and wood. Not only do they bring a touch of elegance, but they also add warmth and character to any space. Here we explore the transformative power of these products [...]

Door Color Trends

            Time to talk door color trends and in this article, we shine a light on popular exterior door colors. Last year, we saw Black become the color of choice for homeowners when it came to painting their exterior door, and according to Fixr.com, Black was once again king in […]

Holiday Door Décor Recommendations

Spread some holiday cheer this season without scratching your beautiful front door! ‘Tis the season to decorate, and that means sprucing up your front door! As homeowners, we want the entryway to our home to appear merry and bright, especially when the in-laws arrive. Here are some holiday tips from Lumbermen’s Door Division to ensure […]


4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales

March 26th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we’ll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2024.

Step 1: Revamp Your Space

One of the most impactful first impressions you can make on potential customers is through a clean, organized display area. Picture this: a clutter-free environment showcasing your decking materials in all their glory. It not only instills confidence in your professionalism but also aids customers in visualizing their own outdoor space transformations. Take the time to declutter and refresh your displays—it’s a small investment that yields significant returns.

Step 2: Craft an Irresistible Display

Your display isn’t just about showcasing products; it’s about creating an immersive experience for your customers. Think of it as your silent salesperson—a well-curated space that educates, inspires, and ultimately drives sales. TimberTech offers an excellent guide to help you optimize your display, and don’t hesitate to leverage the expertise of your Lumbermen’s Rep for assistance.

Step 3: Empower Your Team with Knowledge

Your staff are your greatest assets when it comes to selling. Equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to confidently engage with customers and address their questions. We’ve curated a selection of resources to streamline this process, which can even be customized with your logo and branding. Also, consider incentivizing your staff with engaging contests or rewards to keep your team motivated.

Step 4: Execute a Strategic Marketing Plan

With your space primed and your team empowered, it’s time to amplify your reach through targeted marketing efforts. Start by nurturing relationships with existing customers through tailored communications: do you service contractors who specialize in lakefront homes, or handle multi-family projects? Consider hosting a product training event at your facility and utilize a Lumbermen’s Field Sales Rep for support. For broader outreach, leverage a mix of digital and traditional marketing tactics—from social media campaigns to direct mail initiatives. Remember, consistency and relevance are key to capturing and retaining customer interest.

By implementing these proven strategies, you’ll not only enhance your deck sales performance but also establish yourself as a trusted partner in outdoor living solutions. At Lumbermen’s, we’re committed to supporting your success every step of the way. Reach out to your Sales Rep or our marketing department for personalized assistance—we’re here to help you thrive in 2024 and beyond.


Unlocking Innovation: Door Industry Highlights from the International Builders Show 2024

March 12th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman
IBS entrance

Every year, Las Vegas welcomes members of the building industry to the International Builders Show, and Lumbermen’s was there, along with thousands of other folks from around the world! There is so much to see and do, it is hard to take it all in, so here are some highlights from our friends in the Door industry and what they are excited about in 2024.

Simpson Door Company

One of the first booths we visited was Simpson Door Company, producers of some of the best wood doors in North America. The display that immediately caught our eye was the pivot door system, featuring a Monster XL-sized door for the entry or special space in a customer’s home. In addition to the impressive size, the door opened and shut smoothly and easily. Simpson also offers plenty of customizable options when it comes to style or operations of these pivot doors. Exciting stuff to see from a wood door and truly a differentiating feature!

Neuma Doors

The next stop on the floor were our friends from Neuma Doors, makers of high quality fiberglass entry doors. These guys are known for the style and energy efficiency when it comes to their gliding door systems, and that portion of their display was a big focus of visitors during our time there. A popular topic was Neuma’s Full Lite Gliding Panel door system, as natural light and a maximum viewing area continue to be top priorities for customers in the market.

Therma-Tru & LARSON Doors

Certainly one of the most impressive and comprehensive designs for a booth at all of IBS this year was the one that featured Therma-Tru, Larson Doors, and other products. The massive display offered examples of different Therma-Tru products, with the highlight for most attendees being the massive Veris door display that featured the product’s ability to fold and slide, creating an epic entry option for porches or backyard. Another big hit was the English-style garden display, with its impressive entry door and panel of windows. A big theme for Therma-Tru and Larson in 2024 is connecting the indoors to the outdoors, and they certainly showed off their capabilities to do so!

IBS has us excited for what is to come this year in terms of styles and functionality in the door category. For more information on any of these products, connect with a Lumbermen’s door sales representative.

4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we'll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2024. Step 1: Revamp Your Space One of the most impactful first impressions you can make on potential [...]

Taking Door Frames To The Next Level

Recently, Lumbermen’s took a group of dealer partners on a tour of GM Wood Products, a manufacturer that specializes in high performing door frame components. The group was impressed by what they saw from GM in terms of the company’s capabilities and offerings for 2024. GM Wood Products has a state of art facility with […]

3 Ways to Add Warmth with Stone, Beams and Wood Paneling Accents

When it comes to creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home, few design elements rival the timeless appeal of natural elements like stone and wood. Not only do they bring a touch of elegance, but they also add warmth and character to any space. Here we explore the transformative power of these products [...]

Door Color Trends

            Time to talk door color trends and in this article, we shine a light on popular exterior door colors. Last year, we saw Black become the color of choice for homeowners when it came to painting their exterior door, and according to Fixr.com, Black was once again king in […]

Holiday Door Décor Recommendations

Spread some holiday cheer this season without scratching your beautiful front door! ‘Tis the season to decorate, and that means sprucing up your front door! As homeowners, we want the entryway to our home to appear merry and bright, especially when the in-laws arrive. Here are some holiday tips from Lumbermen’s Door Division to ensure […]


Piece By Piece Podcast, Episode 1: Business Strategies for 2024

March 12th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

 

Welcome to Piece by Piece, a new Podcast by Lumbermen’s!

In this episode, Shawn Montague, VP of Building Materials, talks about strategies and expectations for 2024. “Find a way to create win-win scenarios between all the people that are involved in your business” was one strategy shared.

Subscribe to us on YouTube to catch new episodes.

4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we'll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2024. Step 1: Revamp Your Space One of the most impactful first impressions you can make on potential [...]

4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales in 2024

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we'll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2024. Step 1: Revamp Your Space One of the most impactful first impressions you can make on potential [...]

Taking Door Frames To The Next Level

Recently, Lumbermen’s took a group of dealer partners on a tour of GM Wood Products, a manufacturer that specializes in high performing door frame components. The group was impressed by what they saw from GM in terms of the company’s capabilities and offerings for 2024. GM Wood Products has a state of art facility with […]

3 Ways to Add Warmth with Stone, Beams and Wood Paneling Accents

When it comes to creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home, few design elements rival the timeless appeal of natural elements like stone and wood. Not only do they bring a touch of elegance, but they also add warmth and character to any space. Here we explore the transformative power of these products [...]

Door Color Trends

            Time to talk door color trends and in this article, we shine a light on popular exterior door colors. Last year, we saw Black become the color of choice for homeowners when it came to painting their exterior door, and according to Fixr.com, Black was once again king in […]

Holiday Door Décor Recommendations

Spread some holiday cheer this season without scratching your beautiful front door! ‘Tis the season to decorate, and that means sprucing up your front door! As homeowners, we want the entryway to our home to appear merry and bright, especially when the in-laws arrive. Here are some holiday tips from Lumbermen’s Door Division to ensure […]


4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales in 2024

February 14th, 2024 by Jill Carroll

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we’ll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2024.

Step 1: Revamp Your Space

One of the most impactful first impressions you can make on potential customers is through a clean, organized display area. Picture this: a clutter-free environment showcasing your decking materials in all their glory. It not only instills confidence in your professionalism but also aids customers in visualizing their own outdoor space transformations. Take the time to declutter and refresh your displays—it’s a small investment that yields significant returns.

Step 2: Craft an Irresistible Display

Your display isn’t just about showcasing products; it’s about creating an immersive experience for your customers. Think of it as your silent salesperson—a well-curated space that educates, inspires, and ultimately drives sales. TimberTech offers an excellent guide to help you optimize your display, and don’t hesitate to leverage the expertise of your Lumbermen’s Rep for assistance.

Step 3: Empower Your Team with Knowledge

Your staff are your greatest assets when it comes to selling. Equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to confidently engage with customers and address their questions. We’ve curated a selection of resources to streamline this process, which can even be customized with your logo and branding. Also, consider incentivizing your staff with engaging contests or rewards to keep your team motivated.

Step 4: Execute a Strategic Marketing Plan

With your space primed and your team empowered, it’s time to amplify your reach through targeted marketing efforts. Start by nurturing relationships with existing customers through tailored communications: do you service contractors who specialize in lakefront homes, or handle multi-family projects? Consider hosting a product training event at your facility and utilize a Lumbermen’s Field Sales Rep for support. For broader outreach, leverage a mix of digital and traditional marketing tactics—from social media campaigns to direct mail initiatives. Remember, consistency and relevance are key to capturing and retaining customer interest.

By implementing these proven strategies, you’ll not only enhance your deck sales performance but also establish yourself as a trusted partner in outdoor living solutions. At Lumbermen’s, we’re committed to supporting your success every step of the way. Reach out to your Sales Rep or our marketing department for personalized assistance—we’re here to help you thrive in 2024 and beyond.


3 Ways to Add Warmth with Stone, Beams and Wood Paneling Accents

October 11th, 2023 by Adam Bradway

When it comes to creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home, few design elements rival the timeless appeal of natural elements like stone and wood. Not only do they bring a touch of elegance, but they also add warmth and character to any space. Here we explore the transformative power of these products when used as accents – just in time when interior home projects are on the rise.

Wood Wall Planking: Texture and Versatility

Wood wall planking, often used on walls or ceilings, is a versatile design element that can add warmth and character to any room. Its unique qualities include:

Texture and Depth: The texture of wood planking, whether it’s shiplap, smooth, or tongue and groove, adds depth and dimension to a room. The interplay of light and shadow on the planks creates visual interest.

Versatile Styles: Wood planking comes in a range of styles, from the traditional and rustic to sleek and contemporary. This versatility allows you to tailor the look to your preferences.

Warmth and Coziness: Wood planking carries the inherent warmth of natural wood. Its pleasant tones and tactile qualities instantly make a space feel cozier and more inviting.

Accent Walls: Wood planking is often used to create stunning accent walls that serve as focal points in a room. These walls can be designed to complement the overall style of your home.

Great American Spaces offers versatile collections that homeowners seek but are engineered and milled for easy installation. They recently introduced several new collections featuring more premium options, unique patterns and smoother finishes.

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Beams & Mantels: Architectural Elegance and Coziness

Beams, whether exposed or faux, are architectural treasures that have graced homes for centuries. These horizontal structural elements have a unique ability to evoke both grandeur and coziness simultaneously. Here’s how:

Architectural Interest: Beams create visual interest and define the ceiling, adding depth and structure to a room. In open-plan spaces, they help to delineate separate areas while maintaining an overall sense of cohesion.

Rustic Charm: Wooden beams and mantels, especially those with natural, weathered textures, bring a rustic charm to the interior. Their rough-hewn appearance evokes the coziness of a country cottage or a mountain lodge, inviting touch and creating an immediate sense of comfort.

Beams were also introduced in the recent collection update of Great American Spaces with two options: Premium Engineered Wood and Finished Fypon Foam. Learn more here.

Stone: Timeless Beauty and Earthly Connection

Stone is another enduring material that contributes significantly to the warmth and character of interior spaces. Whether used on walls, fireplaces, or as part of flooring, stone brings several vital elements to the design:

Natural Beauty: Stone’s natural colors, textures, and patterns have an inherent beauty that transcends trends and fads. Its timelessness makes it a lasting choice in interior design.

Earthly Connection: The presence of stone within your home connects you to the earth’s natural elements. This connection can have a calming and grounding effect on the overall ambiance of a space.

Textural Contrast: The tactile quality of stone provides a pleasing contrast to other interior elements, such as wood and soft furnishings. This contrast adds depth and dimension to your home’s design.

Fireplace Focal Points: Stone fireplaces, in particular, are renowned for their ability to become the heart of a room. They provide not only physical warmth but also emotional warmth as a gathering place for family and friends.

Lumbermen’s distributes products from both Evolve Stone and Versetta Stone, each focused on quality, ease of installation and on-trend patterns and colors.

Ready to bring warmth, character, and timeless beauty to the interior of your home this season? Whether you’re looking to create a rustic retreat or a modern oasis, consider harnessing the power of beams, mantels, stone, and wood wall planking to infuse your home with the enduring charm of these products. Consult with your local dealer or builder to get started!


State of the Industry: Mid-Year Market Outlook

July 27th, 2023 by Caleb Hodgkinson

In this Q&A, Shawn Montague, VP of Building Materials, shares his perspective on the current state of the industry and offers advice for addressing economic concerns.

He also offers some predictions for 2024 and encouragement on how to proceed with optimism!

 

Q: You spend a lot of time visiting and meeting with Dealers. As the second half of the year is upon us, what feedback are you receiving from them related to their businesses and the state of the industry? 

The general consensus is that the 2nd half of the year has the ability to be stronger than the 1st half. Crazy to think about! Most of us were sitting here in early Q1 wondering what was 2023 going to yield us and after grinding out the first couple months, I think we are all pleasantly surprised. Demand remains strong on the R&R side of the business and new construction continues to strengthen as well. Builder confidence in the market for newly-built homes in June rose five points to 55, according to the NAHB. This marks the sixth straight month that builder confidence has increased. Additionally, we are seeing builders reduce their home prices to bolster sales and there are signs that we are nearing the end of the tightening cycle on rates.

We will continue to face some headwinds but it is nothing we haven’t already been through. Rates continue to be unpredictable and product inventory levels are starting to flush up out in the market. Flush inventory levels usually create price wars from time-to-time that we all have to be sensitive to. Overall, the 2nd half of 2023 looks positive for us all.

Q: Operating costs continue to rise. What advice do you have for Dealers to help maximize their spend?

I would encourage everyone to refer back to this last article we published and re-visit that. Not much will change…in fact, I would encourage Dealers even more now than ever to not be afraid to sit down with a distributor partner (biased towards Lumbermen’s, of course 😀). Carve out win-win scenarios for the remainder of the year. I just sat down with a strategic customer last week and created a campaign to help grow incremental share for both of us the rest of the year. This type of strategic thinking is part of the new normal. Some of the continued headwinds we will face the remainder of 2023 will extend into 2024, which means it is an opportunity for people to work together to create mutually beneficial scenarios.

Q: What is something that you see as a missed opportunity for Dealers?
Hard to really put my finger on this because we have so many seasoned Dealers out there run by really great people. However, if there is one thing I have to say it would be to partner with Lumbermen’s on a Dealer Event. If your business is one of the lucky ones that has taken advantage of this opportunity, you know what I am talking about. To date this year, we have held 16 events and helped get in front of over 700+ contractors, builders, remodelers, etc. Our goal with a Dealer Event is to create a memorable experience for all who attend and give our Dealers and Vendors the opportunity to educate the market on the products we service. It is an absolute HOMERUN of a time investment. Dealers are missing out if they have not experienced one of these yet.

Q: Any predictions for 2024?
I am not going to take the easy way out on this and say the predictable, “you’re guess is as good as mine…”.  I could be wrong, but I think we are in for a slower version of 2023. This year we are seeing more seasonality to the business.  Seasonality can be a good thing if we are good stewards of inventory, labor, and time. But it can also sneak up on you come month-end. We are seeing price stabilization in specialty building products, which could go away in 2024. Price increases were limited so far this year (unless you are in Roofing 😀) but overall, inflation was limited.  This might go away in 2024, and that is not necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes these increases create opportunities to work together and find ways to be creative. I believe we will all need to continue to find ways to gain share, educate the market, and get closer to the build process to see where we can help.

Q: While those who know you appreciate that you’re a straight shooter, you’re also an optimist. Can you end with some encouraging words for those in our industry as we look forward to the rest of the year and beyond? 
HAVE FUN! What an amazing time to be in our industry. Coming off of a few years where the demand was infinite and supply was finite, I’m not sure that was any “fun.” We found ourselves saying “NO” more than “YES.” We were constantly fighting the decisions between when do we wear masks, how do we handle whatever new situation was given to us that day, and why is there no one that wants to work?!?! What we are going through right now is the bridge between COVID and the new normal. This is a fun and exciting time to be a Leader in our industry. The workforce is a bit more plentiful, masks are a thing of the past (fingers crossed), and we are able to get back out there and strategize for growth. The future here at Lumbermen’s is bright and my hope is that it is for you too!

4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we'll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2024. Step 1: Revamp Your Space One of the most impactful first impressions you can make on potential [...]

4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales in 2024

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we'll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2024. Step 1: Revamp Your Space One of the most impactful first impressions you can make on potential [...]

Taking Door Frames To The Next Level

Recently, Lumbermen’s took a group of dealer partners on a tour of GM Wood Products, a manufacturer that specializes in high performing door frame components. The group was impressed by what they saw from GM in terms of the company’s capabilities and offerings for 2024. GM Wood Products has a state of art facility with […]


Door Color Trends

October 17th, 2022 by Jill Carroll

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time to talk door color trends and in this article, we shine a light on popular exterior door colors. Last year, we saw Black become the color of choice for homeowners when it came to painting their exterior door, and according to Fixr.com, Black was once again king in 2022.

After surveying experts in the home design industry as to why Black and dark colors have become so popular, here was their response: “Black was the number one most popular color for front doors last year, and it’s trending high again this year as well. Black front doors have a timeless appeal that work with many different color schemes. A black door will shine against a white home, add depth to a sage green exterior, or make a blue exterior pop. This color will also work well with many shades of gray, barn red, and even some yellows. Because of this versatility, it’s easy to fit a black door into any design.”

This design trend has been reflected in Lumbermen’s sales data for our state of the art finishing process, which has produced 1,000 more custom painted Black doors than any other color in 2022!

Other popular colors listed within the article included different shades of Blue, Gray, and Sage Green.

Dark colors have been gaining steam in home design, with designers and homeowners choosing them as a door color to help compliment the siding and exterior.

At Lumbermen’s, our Door Department Finishing Process has stayed in step with this trend, producing five staining options that offer our customers their desired look, while also enhancing the beauty of our Therma-Tru exterior doors.  Top sellers for the below colors have been Dark Maple, New Earth, and Raven.


Help your customers achieve the custom look they are seeking by leveraging our 20+ years of experience in pre-finishing.  Experience the difference of the Lumbermen’s Door Division!


Holiday Door Décor Recommendations

December 13th, 2021 by Jill Carroll

Spread some holiday cheer this season without scratching your beautiful front door!

‘Tis the season to decorate, and that means sprucing up your front door! As homeowners, we want the entryway to our home to appear merry and bright, especially when the in-laws arrive. Here are some holiday tips from Lumbermen’s Door Division to ensure that your door looks great and also remains protected.

Tip 1: When hanging a wreath, utilize Non-Scratch wreath hooks. Plastic acrylic wreath hooks are durable for hanging decorations above your front, back or storm door, yet soft enough not to scratch or damage your home. Wreaths with metal elements such as wire can scratch or gouge the paint on your front door, which is worse than a lump of coal. Hooks will stabilize your wreath and also keep it from resting against your door.

Tip 2: Consider DIY projects for your door. This can be a fun family activity, creating a custom decoration that can be updated year to year. Lumbermen’s Director of Marketing, Jill Carroll, employs this holiday strategy for her home, “I have a black door and one year we made a snowflake out of popsicle sticks and I get SO many compliments on it.” Other DIY options can include a bouquet of ribbons and felt cutouts of holiday characters.

Tip 3: Create a winter wonderland surrounding the door. Door frames are great places to hang lights or garlands, and porch decorations like small trees or snowmen can also welcome guests to your home. Your door can still be a focal point, and you minimize the risk of having decorations knocked off as your guests haul all of those presents inside!

No matter your reason for celebrating the season, our last tip is the most important, which is: HAVE FUN!