Industry News

PRODUCT PICKS: February 2015

Each month, hundreds of products hit the market. Here’s our pick of the ones to watch. VELUX® America’s Top-Hinged Roof Window VELUX America’s top-hinged roof windows...

REAL ISSUES. REAL ANSWERS: Margins VS. Market Share

The ideal situation is to do both — gain market share while building margins—but that can be easier said than done. While the rebound in...

ASK THE EXPERT: February 2015

Q: How does one find out the real reasons why a builder won’t do business with you? Signed, Locked Out DEAR LOCKED OUT, Whether you have been...

BEHIND YOUR BACK: Attention Owners: It’s About Your People

Unfiltered insights from a purchasing manager’s perspective. By: Bradley Hartmann This guy was a stud, pure and simple.  With 25 years in the LBM industry, he...

BUSINESS INSIGHTS: Brand Loyalty in Siding and Trim Selection

But don’t forget the customer experience. By: Lou Rossi Manufacturers and distributors often wonder who really decides what brand of product is selected for a remodeling...

SELLING THE DECK PROJECT: Creating Separation

Distinguishing tactics that separate you from the rest of the pack. By: Bob Heidenreich In my last column, I discussed specific techniques that can help combat...

BILL LEE: Always Put a Number to Your Service Claims

Differentiating your business to make the sale. By: Bill Lee Because virtually 100% of all sales-people claim to offer their customers outstanding service, I advocate that...

NLBMDA: Fannie and Freddie Attracting First-Time Homebuyers

On December 8, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac announced programs allowing for a down payment requirement as low as 3% toward the purchase of...

SELLING ENGINEERED LUMBER: New Tools Streamline Wall Bracing Designs

Among the hundreds of code provisions that dictate construction, wall bracing remains one of the most confusing and time-consuming. In fact, wall-bracing provisions take...

Housing Markets Continue to Make Modest Gains

WASHINGTON - Markets in 63 of the approximately 350 metro areas nationwide returned to or exceeded their last normal levels of economic and housing...

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