Under the Hard Hat

Tag: Lumber

  • Lumber industry consolidation: What it means for businesses, builders, and buyers

    Lumber industry consolidation: What it means for businesses, builders, and buyers

    The wholesale lumber industry is shifting as major companies buy out smaller ones, consolidating the market like never before. This trend raises questions about the future for builders, suppliers, and even homeowners. As smaller businesses disappear and larger corporations dominate, it could reshape pricing, competition, and the availability of materials.

    Drivers of consolidation in the lumber industry

    The lumber industry has seen a wave of mergers and acquisitions, especially in the past decade. For example, in 2022, Interfor Corporation acquired EACOM Timber Corporation, expanding its presence in Eastern Canada. In December 2021, West Fraser completed the purchase of the Angelina Forest Products lumber mill in Lufkin, Texas, further strengthening its presence in the Southern U.S. Interfor and West Fraser are some of the largest producers of lumber in North America. Yet, these acquisitions are just the tip of the iceberg. Many have since followed.

    This trend has raised concerns among the owners of smaller wholesale lumber yards, who believe they won’t be able to compete in the future. While competition is generally considered good, consolidation brings news challenges, eventually phasing smaller companies out. This has a profound effect on the entire lumber industry.

    Concerns associated with industry consolidation

    The bigger companies can eventually produce lumber far more efficiently than smaller companies because they operate on a larger scale. They can buy materials in bulk quantities that smaller lumber yards simply can’t afford. In doing so, they’re able to reduce production costs and cut overhead expenses, allowing them to set prices much lower than family-run mills with little pushback. The ability to use price manipulation for profit often leads to higher costs for builders and, ultimately, homeowners who rely on affordable materials.

    In addition, as major players grow, their revenue allows them to buy more expensive equipment, further increasing their operational efficiency. With little room to make mistakes, family-run mills or regional suppliers often can’t compete with larger corporations’ resources, leading to closures, job losses, and fewer options for buyers looking to source materials locally.

    Consolidation might seem like a natural progression for any industry, but it brings challenges that can’t be ignored. With fewer players in the market, there’s less pressure to develop new methods, products, or technologies. Instead of competing to stay ahead, dominant companies may focus more on maintaining their position.

    Potential benefits of consolidation

    While consolidation raises concerns, it also offers advantages that can’t be overlooked. Larger companies bring efficiency and improved supply chain management, which can positively impact the industry.

    Here are some potential benefits of consolidation:

    • Cost savings for larger companies: Streamlined operations, bulk purchasing, and advanced equipment reduce production costs, which could lower prices for customers in the short term.
    • Innovation opportunities: With more resources, bigger companies can invest in research and development, leading to advancements like sustainable materials or more efficient milling techniques. However, larger companies may also get complacent and push resources to maintain market dominance instead.
    • Improved supply chain management: Major companies can better coordinate production, distribution, and retail, ensuring a steady flow of materials during high demand or disruptions.
    • Standardized practices: Fewer players in the market could lead to consistent quality and predictable availability, which benefits builders working on large-scale projects.

    What the future holds for the lumber industry

    Consolidation in the lumber industry shows no signs of slowing down. As large companies expand their influence, the market will likely become more centralized in 2025. For smaller businesses, this means an uphill battle to survive unless they find ways to carve out unique niches or offer specialized products.

    The changes could have mixed outcomes for builders and contractors. On one hand, larger companies offer better supply chain reliability and access to innovative materials. On the other hand, the lack of competition could drive material prices up, making project budgeting more challenging.

    But the real people paying the price will be the homeowners and consumers. Fewer competitors in the market will lead to fewer choices and higher lumber prices, impacting the affordability of home improvements or new construction.

    Bottom line

    Staying informed is the best way to prepare for this future. Builders and contractors should explore partnerships with multiple suppliers to reduce their reliance on a single source. Small businesses can focus on differentiating themselves through exceptional service or niche offerings. And consumers should know how these changes influence the cost and availability of materials for their projects. The industry is changing, but those who adapt will find ways to thrive.

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  • North America’s coolest mass timber marvels

    North America’s coolest mass timber marvels

    Mass timber is transforming how we think about architecture, combining sustainability with stunning design. From Vancouver’s record-breaking tallest timber building to Portland’s breathtaking PDX Airport terminal roof and Quebec’s Nordic-style chalet, this versatile material redefines what’s possible in construction. Across North America, architects use mass timber to create strong, sustainable, and visually striking structures that set a new standard for innovation.

    Quick looks

    • Mass timber is revolutionizing North American architecture, blending sustainability, strength, and striking design in projects.
    • As a renewable, carbon-storing resource, mass timber is an eco-friendly alternative to steel and concrete, reducing construction’s environmental impact.
    • Mass timber showcases versatility across functional and aesthetic design, from airport terminal roofs and civic pavilions to academic buildings and Nordic-style chalets.
    • Prefabricated panels, combined with natural warmth and durability, make mass timber an efficient choice for building greener, smarter structures.

    The rise of mass timber

    Mass timber is a modern construction material made by layering and compressing wood for exceptional strength and durability. Unlike traditional wood framing, mass timber can handle the load-bearing demands of large-scale projects, making it a game-changer in architecture. Its growing popularity stems from a unique blend of sustainability, versatility, and beauty.

    Sustainability is one of mass timber’s biggest draws. As a renewable resource, wood absorbs and stores carbon throughout its lifecycle, making it a greener alternative to steel or concrete. When responsibly sourced, it helps reduce a building’s overall carbon footprint and supports efforts to combat climate change.

    Mass timber’s aesthetic appeal is undeniable. Its natural warmth and grain create a biophilic connection that brings the outdoors in, offering a more inviting and calming atmosphere. Architects love its flexibility for creating striking, open designs, whether it’s the Nordic-inspired chalet in Quebec or the massive timber roof of Portland’s PDX Airport terminal.

    Despite its lightweight nature, mass timber is incredibly strong, rivaling traditional materials in structural performance. This balance of strength and flexibility has enabled projects like Vancouver’s towering timber high-rise and Milwaukee’s Ascent building to push boundaries in construction.

    Beyond its beauty and strength, mass timber contributes to more efficient building processes. Prefabricated panels simplify assembly, cutting down on construction time and waste. Together, these benefits position mass timber as a forward-thinking solution for creating greener, smarter buildings across North America.

    6 must-see mass timber projects across North America

    Brock Commons Tallwood House

    Photo source: Living Labs UBC
    • Location: Vancouver, Canada
    • Architect/Builder: Acton Ostry Architects
    • Type of Building: Mixed-use residential and academic spaces

    Brock Commons Tallwood House at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver is a landmark in mass timber construction. At 18 stories, it was one of the first tall wood hybrid buildings of its kind, combining cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels with a concrete core. The project highlights mass timber’s potential for reducing construction times and carbon emissions while maintaining structural integrity. Designed for mixed-use purposes, including residential and academic spaces, Brock Commons Tallwood House showcases the future of sustainable, large-scale urban development.

    Limberlost Place

    Photo source: Moriyama & Teshima Architects

    Limberlost Place is a groundbreaking 10-story mass timber academic building at George Brown College in Toronto. It is one of Ontario’s first tall, net-zero carbon wood structures. Designed by Moriyama & Teshima Architects in collaboration with Acton Ostry Architects, it demonstrates how mass timber can combine sustainability, innovation, and aesthetics.

    The building incorporates CLT and glulam (glued laminated timber) beams, reducing its environmental impact while creating a striking architectural presence. Limberlost Place models future academic and institutional structures, blending energy efficiency, durability, and biophilic design to inspire the next generation of students.

    PDX Airport Terminal Roof

    Photo source: ZGF Architects
    • Location: Portland, Oregon
    • Architect/Builder: ZGF Architects
    • Type of Building: Airport terminal roof

    The Portland International Airport (PDX) terminal expansion features an awe-inspiring mass timber roof that spans approximately 400,000 square feet. Designed by ZGF Architects, the roof is constructed from regionally sourced Douglas Fir and showcases over 3.3 million board feet of mass timber from Pacific Northwest forests.

    This design incorporates more than 400 glulam (glued-laminated) arches that extend up to 80 feet, paired with a lattice of Douglas Fir inspired by traditional regional weaving patterns. The roof provides structural support and creates a warm, biophilic atmosphere for travelers, reflecting Oregon’s natural beauty.

    What sets this project apart is its use of prefabricated modules, which were assembled off-site and transported to the terminal for efficient installation. This innovative approach minimized disruption to airport operations while ensuring precision and sustainability.

    Nordic-style Mass Timber Chalet

    Photo source: Dezeen
    • Location: Quebec, Canada
    • Architect/Builder: Lemay
    • Type of Building: Residential chalet

    This elegant Nordic-style chalet designed by Lemay in Quebec exemplifies how mass timber can blend modernity with nature. The structure’s timber frame harmonizes with its surroundings, while its efficient construction reduces environmental impact. Its minimalist design and biophilic elements make it a standout in residential architecture.

    Ascent

    Photo source: Ascent MKE

    Ascent in Milwaukee is a record-breaking mass timber high-rise that stands 25 stories and 284 feet tall. Designed by Korb + Associates Architects, the building combines CLT floors with a hybrid concrete core, reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining strength and durability. This residential high-rise has set a global benchmark for sustainable urban living and innovation in high-rise construction.

    Coming Soon! 55-Story Timber Skyscraper

    Photo source: MGA

    A proposed 55-story skyscraper in Milwaukee by Michael Green Architecture will push the boundaries of mass timber construction. If completed, it will become one of the world’s tallest timber buildings, demonstrating the scalability of this sustainable material. The high-rise will use advanced CLT technology and innovative engineering techniques to ensure durability and safety at such heights.

    The project emphasizes sustainability and integrates eco-friendly features such as energy-efficient systems and a reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional skyscrapers. With its innovative design, this skyscraper aims to redefine urban architecture and serve as a benchmark for future timber high-rises globally.

    Bottom line

    Mass timber is more than just a building material—it’s a movement reshaping the future of architecture and construction. From the record-breaking heights of Milwaukee’s proposed wunder-skyscraper to the sustainable elegance of Quebec’s Nordic-style chalet, these projects highlight this innovative material’s incredible versatility, beauty, and eco-conscious benefits.

    As architects and builders continue to push the boundaries of mass timber’s capabilities, it’s clear that this approach is paving the way for greener, more sustainable cities and communities. By reducing carbon footprints while creating stunning, functional spaces, mass timber sets a new standard for construction that’s as environmentally friendly as it is visually inspiring.

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  • Navigating growth and innovation in the lumber Industry: Insights from Sherwood Lumber’s Michael Goodman

    Navigating growth and innovation in the lumber Industry: Insights from Sherwood Lumber’s Michael Goodman

    The lumber industry faces several challenges driven by fluctuating markets, technological advancements, and shifting consumer demands. For Sherwood Lumber, a family-run business, these changes have presented both challenges and opportunities. 

    We chatted with Michael Goodman, a third-generation owner and executive team member of Sherwood Lumber, to learn more about the direction that the industry is heading in. Whether you’re an industry insider or simply curious about the evolving lumber trade, here’s an inside look at the lumber industry and its potential future.

    The backbone of Sherwood Lumber

    For Michael Goodman, the lumber business is more than just a career—it’s a legacy. As a third-generation leader of Sherwood Lumber, he grew up hearing about the industry through his family and observing its challenges and opportunities firsthand. After graduating with an MBA and several years of experience working in various sectors outside the lumber industry, he was eventually drawn back and presented with the opportunity to take on the family business. He couldn’t turn it down.

    But being one of the leaders of the family business hasn’t been easy—even with years of experience in the industry and as part of the company’s leadership board. In a market as volatile as lumber, year-to-year conditions can swing dramatically and lead to losses and tight margins. 

    Despite these hurdles, Michael’s focus on long-term strategies and relationship building has kept the business resilient, proving that adaptability is just as important as tradition.

    Current products and services Sherwood Lumber offers

    Sherwood Lumber provides a wide range of services designed to meet the needs of retailers, lumberyards, and manufacturers. Focusing on reliability and efficiency, they specialize in delivering premium lumber, panel products, and exterior building materials through their streamlined distribution channels. Their services help businesses solve the logistics behind getting the right materials delivered to their sites on time while staying cost-effective.

    Key services include:

    • Lumber and plywood: A wide selection of dimensional lumber, studs, and panels in various grades and species, such as Douglas Fir and Eastern White Pine. They also provide specialty panels like fire-rated plywood and marine-grade options.
    • Exterior building materials: An array of exterior products, including composite decking, PVC trim boards, and siding solutions like Everlast Advanced Composite Siding and Americana™ Thermally Modified Wood Siding.
    • Technical support: Dedicated teams offering product knowledge and advice to tackle project challenges.
    • Mill-direct shipments: Access to high-quality materials sourced directly from the mill, cutting out unnecessary delays.

    Growth and evolution

    Sherwood Lumber’s growth story is one of strategic decisions and a long-term vision. The company has expanded its reach while staying grounded in its values—Reputation, Engagement, Spirit, Pride, Execution, Collaboration, and Transparency (R.E.S.P.E.C.T.). These principles have shaped every decision, from building vendor relationships to fostering a culture of trust and innovation.

    One of the most significant milestones in this journey was the launch of their specialty exterior division in 2018. Unlike traditional lumber products such as framing materials, this division focuses on decking, cladding, and trim—areas that require a unique sales approach and specialized expertise.

    “This was a six-year grind,” Michael explained, reflecting on the challenges of building the division. “It’s a different game compared to selling framing lumber and plywood. You’re targeting the same customer base, but the sales strategy and personnel are completely different.” 

    The effort was well worth it. Establishing the division created a more stable foundation in an industry known for its volatility. Unlike standard lumber used for framing, exterior materials tend to have steadier demand and more predictable prices, which helps offset market unpredictability. The growth didn’t happen overnight, though. Michael credits their success to careful planning and a strong team. “You have to be ready to grow,” he explains. “That means ensuring your core operations are strong before you start scaling. We focused on leadership and having the right people in the right roles. Growth only works when your core is solid.” 

    This philosophy has guided the company’s strategy, enabling them to navigate the lumber industry while staying true to their values.

    Navigating the lumber market challenges

    The lumber industry is no stranger to volatility, and Sherwood Lumber has had to adapt to a range of challenges to remain competitive. From fluctuating prices to shifts in housing demand, navigating these ups and downs requires a clear strategy and a strong understanding of market forces. For Goodman, managing these challenges begins with understanding the factors driving them.

    “Lumber prices are influenced by so many variables—interest rates, liquidity, supply and demand, even the weather,” Michael explains. One of the biggest contributors to price fluctuations is the macroeconomic environment of the housing market. With 80% of Sherwood Lumber materials going to multi-family and single-family homes, changes in mortgage availability, project approvals, and real estate trends have an immediate impact on the company. For Sherwood Lumber to remain profitable, this means keeping a close eye on broader market conditions and responding with agility.

    In addition to being agile, having a large list of vendors and suppliers has been extremely helpful in navigating these challenges. 

    Keys to growth: Building relationships and earning vendor trust

    For Sherwood Lumber, vendor trust has been a cornerstone of its success, especially in developing its specialty exterior division. “The barriers to entry might seem low,” Goodman explains, “but logistics and knowledge make this a tough business. You need more than just capital—you need people to believe in you.”

    When Sherwood Lumber launched its specialty exterior division in 2018, it started with a blank slate. Convincing their first vendor to take a chance on them was no small task. They could only convince one vendor to work with them in their first full year of running the new division. Yet the grind was well worth it. That first partnership became the foundation for the division’s growth as it proved they could deliver high-quality products and solve logistics.

    The following year, Sherwood used the credibility they built with their first vendor to secure two additional partnerships. Sherwood honed their process with each new vendor, learning to navigate the unique challenges of selling exterior materials. Over time, their track record spoke for itself. “Once you prove you can handle the logistics, deliver on time, and maintain strong relationships, other vendors become willing to work with you,” Michael explains.

    Fast forward six years, and Sherwood Lumber now works with ten major vendors in their specialty division, some of which initially said no to working with them in their first few years. The division now makes up 20% of their total profit and is only expected to grow. This growth was no accident—it resulted from careful planning, persistence, and an unwavering focus on relationships. Michael admitted to be successful, “You have to be patient and earn trust over time.”

    What the future holds for the lumber industry

    While Sherwood Lumber has successfully navigated the terrain, there are challenges ahead that will make competition harder. For lumber companies looking to stay ahead, knowing these challenges is essential to establishing future strategies to succeed in the market. 

    Consolidation

    For any lumber or construction company, staying competitive means looking beyond the present and preparing for the future. Michael Goodman sees the lumber industry as poised for transformation, driven by consolidation, technological advancements, and shifts in building practices. “The industry is changing,” he says. “Smaller, family-owned mills and lumber yards are being bought out by bigger players.” 

    While this inevitably will make it harder for new companies to break in, at the same time, things are going to become more streamlined and less volatile as big players can afford to take larger risks and often have efficient operations. This may lead to lower prices for consumers and builders to work with. However, it’s important to consider lumber is typically only a small fraction of the cost of building an entire home, ranging from 2-5% of the total. 

    Alternative materials

    Another big factor to consider is the potential for alternative materials to disrupt the lumber industry’s demand. For example, materials used in 3D printing, like ABS and PLA, are two alternative materials used to build homes today. Hemp is another sustainable material that people are beginning to use.

    However promising, these materials are still in development and likely decades away from being fully integrated like the current lumber industry. Michael believes these materials won’t take off unless they can offer competitive or cheaper pricing than lumber, which is already a sustainable and affordable material itself.

    Technology

    With AI now going mainstream, it’s only a matter of time before industries like lumber begin using it. Michael sees this as a massive opportunity to innovate and improve efficiency in various areas of the company. The company is looking to integrate AI-driven data management tools to improve efficiency and make smarter decisions about purchasing and inventory. “We want to build a system that can analyze market conditions, predict trends, and help us decide when to buy and when to sell,” Michael explains. These tools will be designed to optimize their operations and reduce the impact of market volatility.

    Final thoughts

    Sherwood Lumber’s success comes down to building strong relationships, staying adaptable, and always thinking ahead. From earning vendor trust, opening new divisions, and embracing new technology, they’ve found ways to grow while keeping their values at the core. While the future remains uncertain, Sherwood Lumber is well-positioned to succeed in the future market.

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  • Will Trump’s tariffs really impact lumber prices? Here’s what to know

    Will Trump’s tariffs really impact lumber prices? Here’s what to know

    The lumber industry is bracing for potential changes as talks about reintroducing Canadian softwood lumber tariffs resurface after the 2024 U.S. elections. President-Elect Donald Trump, known for his aggressive trade policies, has hinted at bringing back tariffs since his re-election. With decades of agreements and adaptations already in place, these tariffs are unlikely to make a major dent in the lumber market’s operations, and here is why. 

    What are softwood lumber agreements?

    Softwood lumber agreements (SLAs) are trade deals between the U.S. and Canada designed to regulate the flow of Canadian lumber into the U.S. market. These agreements aim to avoid trade disputes and ensure a level playing field for U.S. producers. Essentially, they set rules around how much lumber Canada can export and at what cost, often using quotas, taxes, or both.

    The first major agreement dates back to the 1980s when U.S. lumber producers complained that Canadian timber was unfairly subsidized, making it cheaper to sell. Since then, multiple agreements have been signed, one of the most notable being the 1996 SLA. This deal introduced export fees and volume limits on Canadian lumber to address U.S. concerns and reduce tensions between the two countries.

    Over the years, these agreements have been renegotiated and adjusted to address changing trade dynamics. Still, their goal has always been the same: maintaining stability in the lumber market while managing competition between Canadian and American producers.

    Current export charges under SLAs

    Under past SLAs, Canadian exporters had to pay export charges when the market price of lumber fell below a certain point. For example, if the price dropped to US$355 or less per thousand board feet, charges ranged from 5% to 15%, depending on the exact cost and the option chosen by the region.

    However, the most recent SLA expired in 2015, and no new agreement has been implemented. Since then, the U.S. has simply applied tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber imports. As of August 2024, these tariffs increased from 8.05% to 14.54%.

    Why the Trump tariffs are likely to make little difference in the lumber industry

    Tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber might sound like they’d shake up the market, but the reality is far more nuanced. The industry has weathered tariffs before, and it’s built to adapt. For starters, lumber prices are influenced more by supply and demand than by tariffs. Factors like housing starts, natural disasters, and global trade shifts have a more significant impact on pricing than a 10-15% tariff hike.

    Another reason tariffs don’t hit as hard is that the market has adjusted over time. U.S. producers have ramped up their capacity to meet demand, reducing reliance on Canadian imports. At the same time, Canadian exporters have diversified, sending more lumber to Europe and Asia, where tariffs don’t apply.

    In many cases, the added cost of tariffs is absorbed at different points in the supply chain. Distributors, builders, and even consumers may share the burden, but the increase is often spread thin enough to avoid dramatic disruptions. This balance makes tariffs less of a game-changer than they might appear on paper.

    What does this mean for construction and housing?

    For construction and housing, tariffs on Canadian lumber increase material costs, but the overall impact is manageable relative to a project’s total cost. Builders and developers are accustomed to dealing with fluctuations in material prices, whether from tariffs or other market forces, so the industry has strategies to minimize disruptions.

    The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) estimated that past tariff hikes increased the cost of constructing a single-family home by nearly $9,000. While this increase is notable, it represents a small fraction of the overall expense, especially in markets where new homes can cost hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars. 

    The construction industry has also explored alternatives in response to higher lumber prices. Materials like engineered wood, steel, and even prefabricated components are being used more frequently, which helps to offset some of the reliance on traditional softwood lumber. This diversification reduces the long-term impact of tariffs on building projects.

    Final thoughts

    While tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber have grabbed headlines, their impact on the industry is more muted than many might expect. The lumber market is influenced more by broader economic trends, like high interest rates and labor shortages, than by tariffs. So, while tariffs might add a bit of cost, they’re just one piece of a much bigger puzzle.

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  • Lumber prices rising in 2024: Is concern on the horizon?

    Lumber prices rising in 2024: Is concern on the horizon?

    The construction industry is once again grappling with the impact of rising lumber prices. As of November 18th, 2024, prices have surged to $605 per thousand board feet, up significantly from earlier this year. For builders and contractors, this escalation signals challenges for project budgets, timelines, and even housing affordability.

    Why lumber prices are rising

    Lumber prices have been on the rise due to a perfect storm of supply chain challenges, environmental pressures, and international trade disputes. Lumber is foundational to almost every project, from framing residential homes to constructing massive commercial buildings. When prices rise sharply, it forces builders to make tough decisions: scale down projects, absorb the costs, or pass them on to clients. Tradespeople, in particular, are feeling the effects, as tighter budgets could mean fewer jobs and a slowdown in ongoing projects.

    Here are the key factors driving these price hikes:

    • Mill closures: Over the past year, major lumber producers like Canfor and Western Forest Products have reduced their output due to unfavorable market conditions, cutting North American production by over 3 billion board feet. These closures disrupt supply chains and create scarcity, directly driving up prices.
    • Environmental factors: The mountain pine beetle infestation continues to wreak havoc on forests, reducing the availability of harvestable timber. This has diminished resources in regions traditionally supplying the bulk of North America’s lumber needs.
    • Trade tariffs: The U.S. has increased tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber imports from 8.05% to 14.54%, exacerbating supply constraints and elevating costs for U.S. builders. With Canada supplying over 25% of the U.S.’s lumber, this trade policy has caused significant disruptions.

    The impact on the construction industry

    Rising lumber prices create compounding challenges that affect every stage of construction, from planning and procurement to labor and delivery. Higher costs mean tighter margins for contractors, increased bids for clients, and potentially fewer opportunities for tradespeople. It’s a domino effect that affects the entire industry ecosystem.

    Here’s how the current price hikes are playing out across the sector:

    • Escalating project costs: Lumber price increases are inflating building budgets, often forcing developers to rethink project feasibility. For example, residential housing, which relies heavily on lumber for framing and interior structures, now costs significantly more to complete.
    • Delays and cutbacks: Builders are delaying project starts or reducing the scope of their builds to align with tighter budgets. This is especially problematic for larger projects, where small percentage increases in material costs can translate to millions of dollars in overruns.
    • Housing affordability concerns: Higher costs for builders inevitably trickle down to buyers, making homes more expensive and exacerbating the existing affordability crisis. With high interest rates, the added financial burden could put homeownership out of reach for many.
    • Pressure on trades: Tighter budgets can lead to reduced hiring or cuts in subcontracted trades, creating job insecurity for workers.

    Rising lumber prices are adding fuel to the fire for an industry already navigating economic uncertainty and labor shortages. Adapting to these changes will require creative problem-solving and a focus on long-term resilience.

    Industry response and future outlook

    In response to these challenges, some construction companies are exploring alternative materials like steel or concrete for framing despite their own fluctuating costs. Others advocate for policy changes to address trade restrictions and supply chain disruptions.

    The outlook for lumber prices remains uncertain. While some experts predict stabilization in 2025 as supply chains adjust, others warn that ongoing environmental and regulatory pressures could sustain elevated prices. For now, construction professionals must navigate this volatile landscape with careful budgeting and contingency planning.

    Lumber remains and is likely to remain a cornerstone of construction, with mass timber becoming increasingly popular. However, its rising cost is a sobering reminder of the sector’s vulnerability to global and regional disruptions. With no immediate relief in sight, the industry must remain adaptive to weather these challenges.

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  • Premier Construction Software partners with Lumber

    Premier Construction Software partners with Lumber

    Premier Construction Software has announced an exciting partnership with workforce management platform Lumber. This collaboration aims to bring powerful new capabilities to construction companies by seamlessly integrating Lumber’s advanced workforce management tools with Premier’s comprehensive construction software suite. Together, they are set to streamline how contractors manage their field workforce, improving everything from payroll to workforce tracking.

    Benefits of this partnership

    This partnership will enable Premier Construction Software users to access Lumber’s automated time tracking, skill matching, and real-time labor cost reporting features. These tools help construction firms manage their teams more efficiently, minimizing human error and saving time on repetitive tasks. 

    The integration promises to create a more efficient and connected workflow between office teams and field workers. Companies can better manage workforce data, reduce manual entry, and make more informed business decisions by using a single, integrated solution.

    One of the primary benefits of this collaboration is its ability to address the unique challenges faced by construction companies when it comes to workforce management. The industry is notorious for its complexity, and efficient labor management is key to overall project success. With Lumber’s expertise in providing workforce management solutions and Premier’s robust software, contractors can now experience simplified workforce operations with real-time insights. This combination reduces the chance of delays, miscommunication, and unexpected labor costs.

    “This partnership elevates our ability to deliver true end value to our clients,” said Karoline Lapko, CEO of Premier Construction Software. “In today’s fast-moving construction landscape, successful project delivery relies on accurate, real-time data flow and seamless software integration. Partnering with Lumber allows us to build a powerful, well-architected API that drives both efficiency and scalability, ensuring that clients are empowered to make timely, informed decisions across their operations.”

    Another significant benefit of this partnership is the ability to track labor productivity across different job sites. As Lumber automates this process, contractors can quickly identify trends, adjust workforce allocations, and improve overall project efficiency. Premier Construction Software’s built-in accounting and project management tools can then use these insights to further streamline project costing, budgeting, and invoicing. The integration of the two platforms ensures data consistency, eliminating the need for duplicate entries and improving accuracy.

    Bottom line

    By partnering with Lumber, Premier Construction Software aims to enhance its offering for mid-size to large construction firms, helping them better manage their workforce and projects. This integration reflects a broader industry trend of leveraging technology to solve construction companies’ complex operational challenges.

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