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Do You Know About National Lumber’s Turn-Key Framing Division?

Published November 22, 2013 Building Industry , Building Materials , Construction , Engineered Wood Products , Framing , Helpful Hints , Lumber , Turn-Key Framing , Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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National Lumber's Turn-Key Framing division is the one source supplies for your large scale building projects.

Serving builders, developers and owners specializing in large wood frame commercial buildings, we work on a variety of projects such as hotels, multi-unit residential buildings and more. We are your one source lumber and building materials supplier providing you with all the materials required. Our team of framing experts will come to your jobsite anywhere in the nation and meet your production schedule.

Doug King, of Douglas A. King Builders, offers a testimonial on behalf of National Lumber

Well established builder, Doug King, shares his thoughts on his experience with National Lumber.

This is what a builder of commercial projects had to say about our service, “We do for sale housing, custom housing, apartments, condominiums. Over 40 years now. National Lumber has been a big part of my operation, and my growth. We’ve been dealing with the same people for 30-40 years. The people we deal with are great. It’s a good relationship.

They have the size to give you whatever you want, and the efficiency to deliver it on-time. They’re a good asset, and a good partner.” Doug King, Douglas A. King Builders, Inc.

National Lumber’s Turn-Key Framing Division offers you the best value for your projects because all of your supplies are coming from one source. You can avoid unnecessary confusion between suppliers and framers because we can fulfill all of your needs for lumber, building materials, structural components, roof and floor trusses, and wall panels. Our experienced engineers have the ability to design the most cost-efficient system for the scope of your project, saving you time and money.

With our team working on your project, the risk of differing interpretations of your design is greatly reduced. Accuracy results from our team’s understanding your design requirements from the beginning and lasting through all phases of your project. Included with all of these Turn-Key framing services is our Double Guarantee, which not only holds the pricing on materials throughout the project’s duration, but also guarantees the material take-off to complete our work.

If you work with a specific National Lumber representative, please ask about these products and services. If you don’t have a specific contact, you can email insidesales@national-lumber.com and we will have someone contact you.

Thank you for your business. We are honored to be your supplier for building materials and more!

The National Lumber Family of Companies

www.national-lumber.com

National Lumber's Family of Companies: National Lumber, Kitchen Views, Reliable Truss, National Millwork, Pro Insulators

Did you know? Reliable Truss and Components has in-house design and engineering departments

Published November 14, 2013 Building Industry , Building Materials , Building Technology , Construction , Green Building , Lumber , News , Reliable Truss , Remodeling , Technology , Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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reliable truss floor tracker truss assembly

Reliable Truss and Components, a division of National Lumber, has in-house design and engineering departments to work with you every step of the way from your initial quote to the final delivery of your product. When it comes to wood and steel trusses, structural components and custom prefabrication, our experts here at Reliable Truss have the ability to offer our customers efficient project coordination and higher quality and more feature-rich products than offered by our competitors. Our innovative processes allow us to provide exceptional service from “under one roof”.

“I wanted to extend my personal thanks to you and the rest of the folks at National Lumber and Reliable Truss for that fantastic tour. I found it to be a very valuable learning experience. While I was generally familiar with metal plate wood trusses, watching the actual manufacturing was quite an experience. I was very impressed by your plant and also by the sophistication of the MiTek software. Previously I was not aware how extensive a capability existed for pre-fabbing wall and floor sections. Again, the machinery and your plant were very impressive. For me the Alpine steel trusses were a complete revelation. In the past I had done some work with light structural steel trusses (angles, tees, and gussets), but these light gauge steel trusses are definitely something to look for a way to use. Thanks again.”  Thomas J. Vaughan Jr, P.E., GSC Engineering, Inc.

Our sales team is exceptionally versed with industry knowledge, and is here to assist you with choosing the components you need for your project and making sure your delivery is on time. Our registered engineers have the expertise to design the components you need for your project, all the while considering our environment, by practicing green building methods to minimize waste. The Reliable Truss facility is state-of-the-art, with fully integrated building industry modeling software to high production automated equipment, allowing us to provide customization and additional solutions to our customers.

If you work with a specific National Lumber representative, please ask about these products and services. If you don’t have a specific contact, you can email insidesales@national-lumber.com and we will have someone contact you.

Thank you for your business. We are honored to be your supplier for building materials and more!

The National Lumber Family of Companies

www.national-lumber.com

National Lumber's Family of Companies: National Lumber, Kitchen Views, Reliable Truss, National Millwork, Pro Insulators

Great news for the home improvement industry: Survey says consumers are willing to spend more on home remodeling.

Published November 6, 2013 Building Industry , Building Materials , Construction , News , Remodeling , Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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consttruction workers putting up an exterior wall panel

In a recent online survey of 5,000 participants, it looks as though homeowners are willing to spend upwards of 30% of their home’s value to renovate or remodel a part of their home. This figure is higher than recorded percentages of 2007 and 2010 for home remodeling costs, which will be a positive impact on the entire home improvement industry.

The survey was comprised of approximately 70 questions to determine whether the participants would prefer remodeling versus moving from their home. To some degree, all of the participants were interested in some sort of change to their existing home.

Consumers are planning to use more expensive materials, which is projected to scale an average budget of $102,000 on their improvements. Approximately 74% of the respondents plan to hire a general contractor for the work, and more than half of the respondents plan to hire an architect, rather than tackling the remodel or renovations themselves.

Some of the planned projects for these homeowners are larger in scale and include multiple rooms. Right above the halfway mark is the percentage of homeowners who are likely to remodel a kitchen.

Our professionals at National Lumber and Kitchen Views at National Lumber are here to serve you through every phase of remodeling projects. We can supply you with the building supplies you need and the services you deserve. Additionally, our kitchen division has the expertise to work with homeowners on design and selection of materials. Contractors are then provided with detailed plans and materials. One of our designers will follow the project from concept to completion. Kitchen Views at National Lumber, where the designers are pros and the views are yours!

Resource: Americans Willing to Spend More to Remodel, Survey Says 

It Takes Teamwork To Build A House

Published August 23, 2013 Building Industry , Building Materials , Engineered Wood Products , Lumber , Reliable Truss , Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Custom-built home by Heritage Construction with pre-cut rafters supplied by Reliable Truss, a division of National Lumber

Custom-built home by Heritage Construction showing some of the installed pre-cut rafters supplied by Reliable Truss and National Lumber

Heritage Construction is building a custom home in Rehoboth, MA using pre-cut rafters from Reliable Truss and Components. Rob Longobardi is the framer in charge.

Bundle of pre cut rafters being lifted off boom truck to be placed on rooftop

Jesse M. of Reliable Truss drives the tractor-trailer containing the pre-cut rafters to the jobsite. National Lumber boom truck driver Brian L. out of the New Bedford yard will use the boom to move the materials to the roof area.

working together to using Moffatt to move rafters from the truck to the crane of the boom truck

It takes teamwork and communication to move materials safely and precisely

Jesse uses the truck-mounted Moffett to unload the materials and precisely place them where needed. In this case, he’s positioning the pre-cut rafters to be taken directly from the Moffett by the boom. The maneuverability of the Moffett allows him to drive forward or sideways as needed.

Brian expertly maneuvers the boom to take the materials from the Moffett and raise them to the framing crew that is waiting to receive them. He makes it look easy, but correctly balancing the weight of the load and accounting for the width of the load as he turns it all takes expertise earned through experience.

Installing the pre-cut rafters on this particular house will take about a week.

boom truck crane places the rafters on the rooftop where workers are ready with supports

Pre-cut rafters are placed on the rooftop with the boom

Before you have a large gathering on your deck, give it a safety check!

Published June 21, 2013 Building Industry , Building Materials , Construction , Decking & Railing , Lumber Leave a Comment
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The summer has officially kicked off! Cookouts and outdoor gatherings will abound. Whatever the celebration may be, keep in mind the importance of maintaining and inspecting your deck regularly. Do this to ensure your event won’t be ruined by deck failure or injuries.

Since Memorial Day weekend, there have been several reports of decks collapsing around the country. In each instance there have been guests who were injured, some with broken bones. Better to be safe than sorry – take the time to inspect your entertainment area before your guests come over. Check your deck to make sure it is structurally sound.  If you see anything that you are unsure of, or concerned about, you may wish to consult with a home inspector or contractor.

According to two of the reports, rim joists and band joists, in separate accounts, connecting the decks to the houses had failed and pulled away causing the collapses. If the connection to the main support area is weakened and you add a shifting live load, the results may be very hazardous. See for yourself what can happen when decks are not maintained.

In 2006, North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) dedicated May as Deck Safety Month. Decks are wonderful outdoor living spaces, but like anything else, they require maintenance and inspection. Age and weather elements contribute to the condition and longevity of a deck. Homeowners must be mindful of the dangers of a deck, especially during peak outdoor seasons.

Here are a few safety tips suggested by the North American Deck and Railing Association:

  • Check for any splitting or decaying wood, especially around the areas where connected to the house or building.
  • Check all around the deck for any anchors, nails or screws that may be corroded or loose.
  • All railings, staircases and banisters should be secure.
  • Leaves and debris can cause mildew, along with other damage, to your deck. Be sure to clear these away.
  • Check to make sure there is flashing to direct water away from any wood.

National Lumber is able to provide you with top quality decking and railing products. If your existing deck is secure, but aged, you may consider upgrading the floorboards to give it a fresh, new look. If you do decide to build a new deck, we have a variety of materials to choose from. Things for you to consider would be the material, color options, cost and maintenance requirements. You can come into any of our 8 locations to speak with our staff about your decking project.

Don’t wait til things topple over, we’re here for you!

Real Benefits of Building “Green”

Published May 16, 2013 Benjamin Moore Paints , Building Industry , Building Materials , Construction , Engineered Wood Products , Exterior Millwork , Green , Green Building , Lumber , Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Over the past decade, we’ve seen some interesting developments in the building industry. One trend coming up steadily is “green” building. With a more health conscious society, making buildings with eco-friendly materials that are made for sustainability is becoming more widely accepted and encouraged. At first, it was a more expensive process than conventional non-green building, however, today the monetary playing field is beginning to level out somewhat.

By starting with a green thought process, the planning and design of the project can be tailored to include more efficient and environmentally friendly materials. There is more flexibility in purchasing green materials from vendors that have expanded their stock and adjusted pricing in order to offer these supplies more widely and readily.

Construction worker using green building materials

National Lumber offers a variety of green building materials for customers. Boise, Benjamin Moore, Centurion, Claymark and Guardian are some our featured product lines.

Builders, designers and consumers all have opportunities to benefit from this way of building and living. In an article on curbed.com, different costs are evaluated and broken out visually to show the real savings that can be obtained by careful planning at the beginning of a building project.  Builders and developers may see the value in these buildings more quickly because these buildings usually command, and receive, a higher selling price. Owners of a green building will see savings on energy costs and tenants will feel happier and healthier knowing their space is good for, not only their environment; it’s good for their own health, as well.

We have taken a meaningful approach to implementing and practicing green methods in our own work environment by installing energy efficient lighting and converting office functions to paperless wherever possible. Read more about the green methods we utilize and materials we supply.

Do you use “green” elements in your building projects currently? Are customers requesting you to use green elements in their projects? Have you seen cost savings firsthand?

National Lumber

Simpson Strong-Tie Strong Drive Screws

Published November 7, 2012 Building Materials , Fasteners and Connectors Leave a Comment
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Simpson Strong-Tie has released a new single-screw solution for truss and rafter uplift and lateral loads, the Strong-Drive® Structural Wood Screw.

The Strong-Drive® SDWC provides a time-saving and reliable option to fastening trusses and rafters to wall top plates. The SDWC offers fully tested loads in accordance with ICC-ES AC233 (screw) and ICC-ES AC13 (roof-to-wall assembly), and installs easily and effectively without pre-drilling.

FEATURES:

  • Fully-threaded shank engages the entire length of the fastener, providing a secure connection between the roof and wall framing members
  • Cap-style head countersinks fully into the double top plate to avoid interference with drywall or finish trades
  • Wide installation-angle range makes it easier to install the SDWC correctly
  • Can be installed from inside the structure, eliminating exterior work on the upper stories and enhancing job safety
  • Fastening can be performed before or after exterior sheathing is applied for added flexibility
  • Metal installation guide tool (included) to help ensure proper installation
  • Matched-tolerance driver bit (included) engages fastener head securely to allow one-handed driving (replacement bit part no. BIT30T-R1)
  • Type-17 point for faster starts and easier driving

National Lumber is a proud Simpson Strong-Tie dealer. For more information on the product lines we carry, visit the Simpson Strong-Tie brochure on National Lumber’s eShowroom.

National Lumber
www.national-lumber.com

New Product: Versatex Trimboard PVC Soffit System

Published August 28, 2012 Building Materials , Exterior Trim , New Products Leave a Comment
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Versatex Trimboard Soffit System

Versatex Trimboard Soffit System

Our friends at VERSATEX have developed the first complete cellular PVC soffit system, including notched fascia and frieze boards. It is both low-maintenance and has great architectural appeal.  The VERSATEX Trimboard Soffit System is available in 12-in and 16-in widths and lengths of 18-ft to reduce joints. Specifically designed to minimize insect infiltration, the vented soffit has a series of 1/8-in wide grooves. This new soffit system system has is one of the more effective air-flow systems available, with a venting pattern that features 10 sq. in. of free air space per lineal ft. This product should prove to be one that architects will specify on future projects.

National Lumber
www.national-lumber.com/versatex

Therma-Tru Entry Doors with Craftsman Sidelites

Published June 27, 2012 Building Materials , Doors , New Products 1 Comment
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Therma-Tru Doors with Craftsman Sidelites

Therma-Tru Doors with Craftsman Sidelites

Entry doors are always a major part of curb appeal, and Therma-Tru has consistently been working on new ways to give homeowners, builders, and remodelers alike a better looking door while also taking into consideration quality and energy efficiency. Therma-Tru’s new Craftsman Sidelites offer yet another attractive option to dress up your entry door. Available in their Classic-Craft American Style and Canvas door collections, Therma-Tru Craftsman Sidelites come with nine glass options, including low-E, privacy, and decorative options. These sidelites are Energy Star rated, so not only do they complement Craftsman style entryways (hence their name) but also help save you energy, and money, in the long run.

This is one of several product announcements Therma-Tru has made this past year. See what we had to say about their vented sidelites, privacy glass options, and their new Fiber-Classic Mahogany 3-panel door.

CertainTeed ColorMax Stains for Fiber Cement Siding

Published June 14, 2012 Building Materials , Fiber Cement Siding Leave a Comment
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certainteed-fiber-cement-siding

Recently, we began selling CertainTeed’s WeatherBoards fiber cement siding, and now we’re happy to announce that CertainTeed now offers six new natural wood stains for their WeatherBoards siding. The new stains are Redwood, Mahogany, Maple, Cedar, Emerald and Slate. Each of these stains features a layer of a primer & sealer, a weather-resistant base layer, and a semi-transparent top layer. These stains can be applied to CertainTeed’s Perfection Shingles, Random Square Straight and Staggered Edge Shakes, Cedar Lap Siding, and Solid and Perforated Soffits. Visit your nearest National Lumber location to learn more about CertainTeed WeatherBoards, as well as available colors.

National Lumber
www.national-lumber.com/certainteed

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