Lumbermen’s New Partnership with James Hardie

August 26th, 2026 by Caleb Krugman

News spread fast recently in the Building Materials industry, with James Hardie announcing a new distribution partnership and naming Lumbermen’s as one of two distribution partners to represent the James Hardie portfolio of exterior building products throughout our service territory while also expanding into Western Pennsylvania.

Our customers naturally have questions, which is why Shawn Montague, Senior Vice President of Building Materials, answered questions about how this partnership was formed, what it means for our customers, and where it can take the company in the future.

Q:   What does Lumbermen’s new partnership with James Hardie mean for our customers?

A:   “The service and partnership that you have grown to know and love about Lumbermen’s just got better. By adding James Hardie to our lineup, we plan on creating value and helping our customers learn more about fiber cement and what makes James Hardie a standout in the premium cladding space. Our level of distribution will be better than anything our customers have ever seen with this category. This creates a unique opportunity to take our existing partnerships on the TimberTech and AZEK side of the business and couple it with an amazing product like James Hardie – all on the same truck, coming from the same place, working with the same people.”

Q:   What made James Hardie a good fit for Lumbermen’s and the customers we serve?

A:   “Lumbermen’s has always been known as a premium cladding distributor and James Hardie helps us close the gap on vinyl siding. We are going to help new and existing customers discover the features and benefits of fiber cement. We also felt strongly that our continued success with the TimberTech / AZEK team played really well for us as we transition into this new partnership. There is a familiarity with many of the same people that we could build on to service the market better. That led to a conclusion for us centered around our customers; in which we know that we will get the support necessary to help our customers grow their business.”

Q:  What should customers expect during the 90-day transition to the new distribution model?

A:   “This will be a fluid process for us as we look to bring stock inventory into all six of our distribution centers while also growing our DC network by potentially TWO new DCs in the next 12 months. We plan on loading in one DC at a time with James Hardie products with all of them being complete by December of this year. Our customers should know that we will always keep them at the center of our decisions. We will strive daily to get it right the first time and deliver to them what they need while staying safe along the way.”

Q:    Which James Hardie products will Lumbermen’s carry?

A:   “One thing that is important to us is transparent and streamlined communication. We have set up some internal controls to keep our teams informed so they can keep our customers informed. These will serve as the pipeline of communication that will let our customers know what specific products will be serviced in what areas. In short, we plan on supporting all sidings, trims, panels, etc. in every market we serve. We will build a robust service platform that will service prime product, ColorPlus, Dream, as well as a custom-color offering with our ColorFusion brand.”

Q:    What does the James Hardie partnership mean for customers who currently purchase LP products from Lumbermen’s?

A:   “We recognize that our partnership with LP was and is still strong. We enjoyed servicing our customers with LP products and we want to help transition them into finding a new distributor partner, if possible. We are working closely with LP through this transition and have open lines of communication. We also know that LP products have become an important part of our customers’ businesses and we respect that. That said, we also intend on offering a strong service platform with James Hardie products. These same customers who have experienced a high level of service with LP products will now be able to experience the same high level of service with James Hardie products.”

Q:    What would you say to customers who are concerned about disruption during the transition?

A:   “We are willing to help you get through this in every way possible. We do not want to leave any customer behind – what does that mean? If you are a strong and loyal LP customer with us, we want to help connect you to the right people to get you new partners in this space. We will not abandon anyone through this process. We have strong lines of communication set up with LP to navigate any and all situations that come our way.”

Q:    How is Lumbermen’s preparing operationally for the additional volume this partnership could bring?

A:   “We are currently going through a rigorous forecasting process to help support the additional TimberTech / AZEK business while also preparing for the new James Hardie business. This process helps inform the next steps to build out our operational resources that we see as necessary to deliver a best-in-class experience for our customers. A few things to note would be additional employee-owners, training, additions to our fleet, inventory, and warehouse space. We also plan on bringing on ONE or TWO new distribution centers in the next 12 months to help support Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. These investments remain top of mind for us and we have an amazing group of people leading the charge!”

Q:    As Lumbermen’s footprint grows, how will the company make sure existing customers continue receiving the service they expect?

A:   “If there is one thing that gets discussed more than anything else, it is this. Every meeting, conference call, email, phone call, text, and interaction – this challenge remains constant through them all. As leaders, we are holding each other accountable to this. Growth is important, but keeping our authenticity matters even more.
Through growth, there will be change. I don’t know many people who have been part of a successful growth journey and not experienced change along the way. I think it will be important that we stay authentic through each change. Our people are our secret sauce. They will help us stay true to our customers and one another through this journey.”

Q:    What opportunities does this partnership create for dealers, builders, and contractors who work with Lumbermen’s?

A:   “We believe in meaningful interactions that have continuous connection points. Sure, we are a distributor whose fundamental role is to have inventory, sell inventory, deliver inventory. But we are not JUST a distributor. We want to go beyond the transaction and build a relationship with this audience that helps them love the building materials industry and have success within it. Now we get to do this with James Hardie products! We are excited about the people we haven’t met yet or the situations we haven’t experienced yet. The opportunities that are waiting for us will be some of the most meaningful to date.”

Q:    If there is one thing you want every Lumbermen’s customer to understand about this transition, what would it be?

A:   “WE GOT YOU! We exist to enrich the lives of people by intentionally caring for all who experience us. That means that we will be here for each of you through this transition and beyond. We are VERY excited about our future together!”

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Lumbermen’s Named Strategic Distribution Partner by James Hardie

August 3rd, 2026 by Caleb Krugman

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – August 3, 2026 – James Hardie, the North American leader in fiber cement siding and exterior building products, has named Lumbermen’s Inc. one of only two distribution partners to represent its portfolio across Lumbermen’s existing service territory while expanding into Western Pennsylvania.

The expanded relationship was a natural progression following James Hardie’s acquisition of The AZEK Company in July 2025, building on Lumbermen’s longstanding role as a distributor of AZEK® Exteriors and TimberTech® decking and railing products. Through this strategic partnership, Lumbermen’s will now offer James Hardie’s complete portfolio of exterior building products, including Hardie® siding and trim.

“This partnership is a tremendous honor for our employee-owners and a reflection of the relationships we’ve built with both our customers and manufacturing partners,” said Shawn Montague, Senior Vice President of Building Materials at Lumbermen’s. “Throughout the James Hardie and AZEK integration, James Hardie received feedback from the market about the level of service, value-added approach, and commitment to customer success that defines Lumbermen’s. We’re incredibly grateful for their confidence in our team and excited about what this partnership means for our customers and employee-owners.”

The announcement comes as James Hardie begins a 90-day transition to realign its distribution network across the United States. Under the new model, the company will consolidate distribution, selecting two strategic partners in each market to represent its portfolio of products.

For Lumbermen’s customers, the agreement strengthens access to some of the industry’s leading exterior building brands through a single distribution partner while continuing the high level of service and technical expertise they have come to expect. Customers should experience a seamless transition, with continued access to the products, inventory, and knowledgeable support they’ve relied on from Lumbermen’s for years.

“This opportunity reinforces our belief that relationships matter and that serving our customers extends far beyond transactions,” said Steve Petersen, President & CEO of Lumbermen’s. “The genuine care our employee-owners have for one another, our customers, and our supplier partners is what truly sets us apart and makes a lasting difference.”

About Lumbermen’s

Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Lumbermen’s is a 100% employee-owned building materials distributor and manufacturer serving Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, and soon, Western Pennsylvania. The company employs nearly 800 employee-owners and is one of the Midwest’s leading distributors and manufacturers of building materials. As a 100% employee-owned company, Lumbermen’s is committed to delivering exceptional products, innovative solutions, and industry-leading service while helping customers grow their businesses.

Additional Industry Articles

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6 Benefits of Stock and Semi-Custom Cabinets vs. Fully Custom Cabinetry

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Q&A with Shawn Klysen, Senior Sales Advisor, Minnesota Door Division

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In this Q&A, Shawn shares his insights on the industry, his plans for driving success in Minnesota, and what excites him most about joining the Lumbermen’s family.

Preventing Frost and Condensation: Tips for Homeowners with Therma-Tru Entry Doors

When temperatures drop to zero degrees or below, it’s common for door dealers to receive calls from homeowners concerned about condensation and frost forming on their windows and doors. Aluminum components like ADA sills and astragals are more likely to form frost during these conditions due to the transference of exterior cold, mixed with warm moist air in the home.

Rethinking Relationship Building: Creating Unique Experiences Beyond the Golf Course

Are the events you plan aligned with what your customers really want? It’s important that they genuinely enjoy their time with you, so why not ask them what they’d like to do? You might be surprised by their suggestions.

4 Strategies to Boost Storm Door Sales

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4 Simple Tips to Elevate Your Marketing

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Navigating Your Business in Uncertain Times

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Culture, Challenges, and Opportunities: A Q&A with Jeff Malloch, VP of Building Materials

April 25th, 2025 by Caleb Krugman

Last fall, Lumbermen’s welcomed Jeff Malloch as Vice President of Building Materials. With a background in leadership from a large public school district, Jeff brought a fresh perspective to the role. Now, eight months in, we caught up with him to hear his reflections on the company, industry trends, and the opportunities ahead for building materials dealers.

Q:   You’ve been in your role for nearly 8 months now. Care to share some overall observations?

A:   “I began my business career as a CFO in a large public school district, overseeing more than 900 employees across finance, HR, operations, construction, technology, transportation, and food service. Leaving a place with such a strong culture was not easy, but Lumbermen’s reputation for genuinely caring for its people and supporting customers at the highest level made the decision feel right. Since joining the building materials industry, I’ve been struck by the deep loyalty and dedication of the individuals within it. Early in my transition to Lumbermen’s, someone told me, “Once you start in this industry, you never leave”—and I’m beginning to understand why. As I navigate my first year, building new relationships with our expanding customer base, I’ve come to see this industry as one big family—where vendors, distributors, dealers, and contractors remain closely connected in a fast-moving and rewarding market.”

Q:   Does anything else stand out to you about Lumbermen’s specifically?

A:   “I’ve been consistently impressed by the customer-first approach that defines our teams. Our Outside Sales Representatives and Customer Service Representatives are true advocates for our customers, working hard to solve challenges, manage special requests, and secure the right product mix. This commitment helps us build long-lasting partnerships based on trust and reliability.

Our strategies around pricing, programs, and protections are designed with flexibility in mind. But while we adapt to market conditions, integrity is never compromised. Every decision is made with fairness and long-term relationships at the core.

What really stands out, though, is the culture. There’s a strong sense of ownership, teamwork, and pride in what we do. The Lumbermen’s brand carries weight—not just because of what we sell, but because of how we show up for our customers and partners.”

Q:   Tariffs are a hot topic right now. What do you perceive as the potential impacts on our industry?

A:   “Tariffs on building materials often lead to increased manufacturing costs, which are typically passed down the supply chain to the end user. This creates upward pressure on prices and contributes to broader inflationary trends. In turn, inflation may impact the Federal Reserve’s decisions, potentially delaying interest rate cuts and keeping mortgage rates elevated. High mortgage rates can slow new construction and reduce demand—particularly in the entry-level housing market.

Materials sourced internationally are also more exposed to price volatility and supply disruptions due to global trade dynamics and logistical challenges. On the other hand, companies that source and manufacture domestically tend to benefit from more stable pricing and supply, creating a potential competitive edge.

Despite these headwinds, the repair and remodel (R&R) segment remains strong. Many homeowners are opting to invest in improvements to their current homes rather than navigating today’s higher-rate homebuying environment.

While these challenges weren’t anticipated during our 2024 planning, we view them as opportunities. They’ve opened the door for meaningful conversations with our Dealer network—focusing on job-specific needs, current strategies, and forward-looking plans. This proactive engagement is helping us uncover win-win solutions during a time of uncertainty.”

Q:   What do you see are the greatest opportunities for Building Materials Dealers in the next five years?

A:   “Over the next five years, building materials dealers have a real chance to grow—especially if they align with the right kind of distributor. It’s not just about offering premium products at competitive prices anymore. Dealers who partner with distributors that are agile, market-aware, and genuinely invested in their success will have a clear advantage.

Success will come to those who work with distributors that blend strong product access with a deep understanding of local and national trends. That combination allows dealers to deliver faster, more relevant value to their customers. Technology will also play a major role. Dealers that embrace digital marketing and support tools provided by distributors will stay visible and connected in a buying process that’s increasingly happening online.

Equally important is the internal investment in people and culture. Attracting and retaining top talent will be critical to maintaining consistent service and driving long-term growth. Finally, dealers need to stay adaptable. Those who are forward-looking and work with flexible, tech-savvy distributors will be best prepared to meet the evolving demands of the industry.

Ultimately, the dealers that focus on strong partnerships, smart technology, and a winning culture will be the ones leading the way in the years ahead.”

Additional Industry Articles

AI for Building Materials Marketing: 5 Best Practices

Artificial intelligence has quickly become one of the most valuable marketing tools available, especially for building materials dealers who don’t have a dedicated marketing person or department.

Decora & Mid Continent Cabinetry Now Available

Lumbermen’s is pleased to introduce two new cabinet lines, including Decora and Mid Continent.

Lumbermen’s Expands Door Solutions with New EMTEK Hardware Partnership

Lumbermen’s is pleased to announce a new partnership with EMTEK, giving customers access to premium door hardware that perfectly complements the doors we manufacture.

Training Made Easier: Downloadable Diagrams for Your Team

We’ve created a series of visual training guides that break down the key components of decks, roofs and siding systems. These diagrams are designed to help new team members quickly become familiar with industry terminology, product components, and construction basics.

5 Ways to Upsell Your Deck Jobs

Margins on standard decks can be tight, but there’s an easy way to improve your bottom line. By adding a few high-value features, you can turn a basic deck into a more functional, finished outdoor space your customers will appreciate.

Making Social Media Manageable (Free Template Download for Dealers and Builders)

When I talk with our dealers about their social media efforts, most already understand its importance and the role it plays in building a brand. Where they tend to struggle, however, is with two simple questions: What should we post? and Who’s going to do it?

Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders in Building Materials: Insights from Lumbermen’s Leadership

How can companies support the next generation while honoring the industry’s deep expertise? And what can job seekers learn from those already leading the way? We asked Lumbermen’s leadership to share their insights.

Residential Cabinetry Offerings by Lumbermen’s

With countless styles, materials, construction methods, and price points available, choosing the right cabinetry can sometimes feel overwhelming. For homeowners, the decision often balances aesthetics, durability, and budget.

Top Dealers Recognized for Cabinet Sales

Last month, following our annual Product Fair, we hosted a special event to celebrate our top-performing dealers at The Atrium at Uccello’s in downtown Grand Rapids.

Making Safety Personal: Lumbermen’s Winter Safety Challenge

This winter, Lumbermen’s launched a Winter Safety Challenge designed to help employee owners reconnect with their personal “why” for working safely.

Lessons From the Show Floor: Rethinking Marketing in the New Year

Fresh conversations at our Product Fair revealed a few surprising marketing lessons. One simple mindset shift could change your results.

Deck the Door with Care: 5 Holiday Decorating Tips

The holidays are the perfect time to add warmth and cheer to your home’s exterior. But before you hang that wreath or wrap your garland, it’s important to make sure your décor won’t harm your door’s finish. These tips will help you create a festive look, without leaving a mark.

A Dealer’s Guide to Getting Found Online: Understanding SEO

A quick, plain-English guide to SEO basics that help your business show up in search and turn clicks into calls and quotes.

Managing Client Expectations in the Fall: A Guide for Residential Contractors

As temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, fall often becomes one of the busiest seasons for residential builders and contractors. While this seasonal rush can create valuable opportunities, it also brings challenges when it comes to managing client expectations.

Shaping the Future: Recruiting and Developing Emerging Leaders in the Building Materials Industry

We asked our young Employee Owners and interns what it will take to attract top talent and shape the future of building materials.

6 Benefits of Stock and Semi-Custom Cabinets vs. Fully Custom Cabinetry

Whether you’re a designer helping clients bring their vision to life or a homeowner thinking about your own renovation, stock and semi-custom cabinets offer a smart alternative to fully custom cabinetry—providing the look, functionality, and durability you want, often with less stress and at a more accessible price.

Don’t Let Customers Pass You By: Keep Your Google Business Profile Fresh

An estimated 92% of all online search traffic happens via Google, which is why it is so important to make sure that your business is easy to find with robust and correct information.

Why Do Entry Doors Leak—And What Can Be Done About It?

Few things are more frustrating for a homeowner—or for the Dealer or installer involved—than discovering that an entry door is leaking. It’s especially concerning during heavy rainstorms, which are common in the hot summer months.

Snap, Store, Share: A Simple Marketing Habit for Builders

For builders and contractors, the busy season often leaves little time for anything beyond the work at hand. But while your crews are pounding deck boards, raising frames, and wrapping up beautiful transformations, you’re also surrounded by a powerful marketing asset: your jobsite.

Spring for Storm Doors—2 Great Options from Larson & Lumbermen’s

After a long, dark winter, Midwest homeowners are eager for fresh air and sunlight, making spring the perfect time to promote storm doors to your customers.Lumbermen’s proudly offers a comprehensive inventory of Larson Storm Doors, ensuring we are your go-to source for their products.

3 Strategies to Grow Your Decking Business

Growing your decking business requires more than just quality craftsmanship—it takes strategic planning and effective customer engagement. Whether you’re looking to attract new clients, improve your sales approach, or enhance your brand’s visibility, having the right tools and knowledge at your disposal is essential. Here we explore three key strategies to help you expand your reach and increase your success.

4 Reasons Dealers Should Use Email Marketing to Connect with Customers

When meeting with Dealers to talk about marketing, I usually ask if they are using email marketing. Often, they aren’t—despite having a decent list of names and email addresses. The truth is, email marketing is a powerful tool for strengthening relationships with customers.

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 2025.

Q&A with Shawn Klysen, Senior Sales Advisor, Minnesota Door Division

As part of Lumbermen’s exciting expansion of Door Manufacturing and Distribution operations in Minnesota, we were thrilled to welcome Shawn Klysen to our team as Senior Sales Advisor in December.

In this Q&A, Shawn shares his insights on the industry, his plans for driving success in Minnesota, and what excites him most about joining the Lumbermen’s family.

Preventing Frost and Condensation: Tips for Homeowners with Therma-Tru Entry Doors

When temperatures drop to zero degrees or below, it’s common for door dealers to receive calls from homeowners concerned about condensation and frost forming on their windows and doors. Aluminum components like ADA sills and astragals are more likely to form frost during these conditions due to the transference of exterior cold, mixed with warm moist air in the home.

Rethinking Relationship Building: Creating Unique Experiences Beyond the Golf Course

Are the events you plan aligned with what your customers really want? It’s important that they genuinely enjoy their time with you, so why not ask them what they’d like to do? You might be surprised by their suggestions.

4 Strategies to Boost Storm Door Sales

As the weather cools and we prepare for what’s predicted will be a particularly cold winter, now is a great time to promote your storm door offerings. In this article, we share actionable steps and valuable tools to help you elevate your sales game and drive sales!

4 Simple Tips to Elevate Your Marketing

We asked the Lumbermen’s Marketing team members to each share one tip Dealers can consider when amping up their marketing efforts this fall.

Lumbermen’s & Therma-Tru Launch Social Media Campaign Aimed to Drive Leads to Dealer

Lumbermen’s and Therma-Tru have recently initiated a dynamic social media campaign with the goal of enhancing customer engagement and increasing sales leads for dealers. This approach uses digital marketing strategies to emphasize the distinctive qualities and benefits of their products.

Navigating Your Business in Uncertain Times

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.

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 Door industry and what they are excited about in 2024.

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.