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 The Grabber SuperDrive Mach1 from Grabber Construction Products is the first collated system explicitly designed to meet the demands of onsite and offsite light-gauge steel frame construction, offering unparalleled speed, precision and efficiency. 

The new collated system easily attaches to a Mikita or DeWalt impact driver, versus a screw gun. Features include a no-slip tip, reversible feed track (for right- or left-handed workers), SureLock fine depth adjustment, quick removal strap, as well as a compact and durable design that includes pass-through spaces for the impact driver’s LED lights. The new tool is compatible with Grabber’s SuperDrive 7/16″ to 7/8″ collated screws. 

For more information, visit grabberpro.com. 

Outdoor Living Supply, a distribution platform for outdoor living products with a focus on hardscapes, has acquired C&R Stone World Inc., Stoneworld Utah L.L.C. and Cedar Stone Supply, Inc. (collectively, Stoneworld), full-service distributors of natural stone, masonry, hardscape and landscape supplies. This acquisition expands OLS’ footprint in the Mountain states, adding five strategic locations in Utah and Idaho.

Headquartered in Mapleton, UT., Stoneworld was founded by Rhett Robison in 2003. In subsequent years, Robison, together with Kolby Sawyer, Cody Petersen and Beau Brady, leveraged their strong customer base and generated regional growth via the addition of new locations in Utah and Idaho. Over its 20-year history, Stoneworld has grown into a leading independent distributor thanks to its quality products, operational expertise and focus on providing the highest level of customer service. Going forward, the existing management team will continue with the business, ensuring continuity and consistency for employees, customers and supplier partners.

“We are delighted to welcome the Stoneworld team to the OLS family of companies,” said Brian Price, CEO of OLS. “Rhett, Kolby, Cody and Beau have built an exceptional team and reputation in this dynamic market, that includes Salt Lake City. There are many obvious product synergies and opportunities for our platform to accelerate growth, and we are excited by the potential of what we can accomplish together.”

“We decided to partner with OLS based on their unique business model and reputation for taking care of their people. I am very proud of the culture we have built and grateful to have found a partner in OLS who is committed to preserving our legacy and supporting our team as we embark on this next chapter of growth,” added Rhett Robison, owner of Stoneworld. “We look forward to the extensive opportunities OLS will provide our employees and customers, alike.”

Trex Company, Inc. announced that Dennis Schemm has resigned as senior VP and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to accept a position in a southern region state closer to family. 

“We appreciate the contributions that Dennis has made during his tenure with us. Dennis has been a valuable member of our executive leadership team, and we wish him the best with his future endeavors,” said Bryan Fairbanks, president and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). 

Mr. Schemm will continue to serve as CFO until June 9, at which time the CFO responsibilities at Trex will be assumed on an interim basis by Bryan Fairbanks. Fairbanks served as CFO from August 2015 until being named CEO and a member of the Board in April 2020. 

The company has begun the search to identify the next CFO. 

The BuildClub, referred to as the “Amazon for building materials,” offers same-day, on-site delivery of building materials—from decking and railing to lumber, electrical and plumbing.  

The resource saves contractors the cost of having their own people find the right items at competitive prices, while arranging delivery to the job sites seven days a week. Approximately 260,000 products are available for same-day delivery. 

Leveraging AI and Machine Learning technology, the BuildClub is currently operating in California, Arizona, and Nevada, and slated to expand into 15 additional cities by the end of 2023. 

 

Oldcastle APG, parent company of MoistureShield, Barrette Outdoor Living, and Belgard, is slated to open a new outdoor living products manufacturing facility in Rehoboth, Ma., that will primarily produce concrete pavers and retaining walls. 

The additional manufacturing space will enable the company to provide greater service to the New England market. 

 The grand opening ceremony is scheduled for May 25 and will feature plant tours for the local community, its customers and partners. 

Empower Brands, parent of Archadeck Outdoor Living, Outdoor Lighting Perspectives, and Superior Fence & Rail, has launched a new podcast, “The Franchise Blueprint.”  

Kip Dawkins Photoshoot. Richmond VA – May 2021
licensing: ‘For use on print and digital ads (national), print and digital marketing and PR collateral (national), website, social media, and internal corporate use in perpetuity.’ Third party transferable rights extended to individual franchises and vendors. Pre-roll, OOH (i.e. billboards), broadcast and all other use not expressly stated herein is excluded.

Hosted by industry experts R. Scott Sutton, Empower Brands chief development officer, and Erin Zide, development director for Empower’s Archadeck Outdoor Living Brand, the new podcast will offer insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and franchisees. With a growing collection of compelling episodes, “The Franchise Blueprint” is set to become a resource for those interested in the world of small business ownership. 

The podcast will host a lineup of special guests: renowned industry experts, successful franchise owners and influential thought leaders who will join Sutton and Zide to share their stories, strategies and insider tips. Their valuable contributions will offer a comprehensive understanding of the franchising landscape, helping listeners make informed decisions and take their business ventures to new heights. 

 “Through ‘The Franchise Blueprint,’ we’re aiming to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in the world of franchising,” said Sutton. “Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned franchisee, this podcast is your ultimate guide to achieving your goals and realizing your dreams.” 

In its premiere episode, ‘The Franchise Blueprint’ welcomes Jamie Colyer, a draftsman with Empower Brands’ Archadeck Outdoor Living. Colyer joined the team in 2021 to support franchisees with design to help their sales and business processes. In the episode, Colyer shares how he supports franchisees and how he came up with the podcast name. 

“We’re delighted to launch ‘The Franchise Blueprint’ as a way to share our expertise and help others succeed in the franchising world,” said Erin Zide, co-host of the podcast. “Franchising offers a unique path to business ownership, and our goal is to provide valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiration to our listeners. We want to equip them with the knowledge they need to thrive in their franchise journey.” 

Listeners can find “The Franchise Blueprint” on major podcast platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music and more.  

To learn more about franchising with Empower Brands, visit empowerfranchising.com. 

 

INDUSTRY NEWS

Outdoor Living Supply, a distribution platform for outdoor living products with a focus on hardscapes, has acquired C&R Stone World Inc., Stoneworld Utah L.L.C. and Cedar Stone Supply, Inc.
Trex Company, Inc. announced that Dennis Schemm has resigned as senior VP and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to accept a position in a southern region state closer to family. 
Oldcastle APG, parent company of MoistureShield, Barrette Outdoor Living, and Belgard, is slated to open a new outdoor living products manufacturing facility in Rehoboth, Ma., that will primarily produce concrete pavers and retaining walls. 
Empower Brands, parent of Archadeck Outdoor Living, Outdoor Lighting Perspectives, and Superior Fence & Rail, has launched a new podcast, “The Franchise Blueprint.”  
Simpson Strong-Tie and MOSO North America have partnered on products and software to enable customers to plan and design their deck projects with Simpson Strong-Tie Deck Planner Software.  
Trex Company has upgraded its interactive deck design tool to users to plan every detail of their outdoor space, all from the convenience of a laptop.

LATEST ISSUES

TRENDING PRODUCTS

 The Grabber SuperDrive Mach1 from Grabber Construction Products is the first collated system explicitly designed to meet the demands of onsite and offsite light-gauge steel frame construction, offering unparalleled speed, precision and efficiency. 
The BuildClub, referred to as the “Amazon for building materials,” offers same-day, on-site delivery of building materials—from decking and railing to lumber, electrical and plumbing.  
Avon Plastics has launched the Armadillo Essential line, including grooved and solid composite decking boards and respective fascia and 2x4’s. 
Digger Specialties Inc. (DSI) has added two new color options to its Designer Fencing system. Sienna, a reddish brown, and Storm, a variegated gray color, have been added to DSI’s current list of colors: White, Tan, Mocha, Antique Beige and Cottage Grey.
National Nail’s CAMO brand has now introduced an added layer of protection for the deck substructure, with CAMO Joist + Ledger Deck Tape.
Screw Products, Inc. offers their new GEN II Line of fasteners in 316 Stainless Steel and 300 Series* Stainless Steel covering most of your deck building project requirements. Conveniently packaged in 1lb and 5lb jars as well as Bulk pails

BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Outdoor Living Supply, a distribution platform for outdoor living products with a focus on hardscapes, has acquired C&R Stone World Inc., Stoneworld Utah L.L.C. and Cedar Stone Supply, Inc.
Trex Company, Inc. announced that Dennis Schemm has resigned as senior VP and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to accept a position in a southern region state closer to family. 
Oldcastle APG, parent company of MoistureShield, Barrette Outdoor Living, and Belgard, is slated to open a new outdoor living products manufacturing facility in Rehoboth, Ma., that will primarily produce concrete pavers and retaining walls. 
Empower Brands, parent of Archadeck Outdoor Living, Outdoor Lighting Perspectives, and Superior Fence & Rail, has launched a new podcast, “The Franchise Blueprint.”  
Simpson Strong-Tie and MOSO North America have partnered on products and software to enable customers to plan and design their deck projects with Simpson Strong-Tie Deck Planner Software.  
Trex Company has upgraded its interactive deck design tool to users to plan every detail of their outdoor space, all from the convenience of a laptop.

BUILDING MATERIALS

Oldcastle APG and Barrette Outdoor Living’s RDI Elevation Rail has won Best of IBS Award for Most Innovative Building Material at the 2023 NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS).
  As families continue to invest in their outdoor living spaces, we see several trends emerging from different regions throughout North America. Across our network of dealers and Wolf PRO contractors, we looked at what’s trending this season. What’s Your Region’s Color? The Northeast region of the U.S. gravitates toward Harbor Grey, a solid gray, with light color tone. For example, in New Jersey many of the docks by the shore are being constructed with complementary grays which drives this color popularity. The southern regions like North Carolina and Georgia favor warmer colors such as Sand Castle or Amberwood. And when we look at the coastal regions of Florida, a staggering 52% of decking was a shade of gray. Some of the colors are driven by style, while others may be more related to the overall homes style or reflective of HOAs. Interestingly, Canadian provinces, territories and the Northwest U.S. are on the deep, dark and natural color spectrum. They are all-in on Black Walnut and Onyx and often paired with Silver Teak. These darker colors are typically used to picture frame the deck and contrast the home’s colors. It’s not just about choosing a singular color but selecting two contrasting or complementing colors—one for the majority of the deck and one for the accent color—to set your deck apart with visual points of interest. Unique Board Placements Draw Attention When it comes to customization, color is only one piece of the deck design puzzle. Board layout and orientation can create strong visual points to create a distinct feature element, which is often influenced by the builder, their experience, and preference. Some builders have created their own custom elements to brand their services. Always keep in mind, that boards must be laid in a way that breaks up the expansion
Not only does a good fence frame the yard and add to a home’s curb appeal, but it also can provide an element of privacy and safety, including noise reduction. Sound minimization is becoming especially prevalent as more houses are being built on the same acreage as previously built developments, according to the Census Bureau’s 2018 Characteristics of New Housing data. Neighborhoods are packed tighter as more people flock to city centers to be in good school districts. This means more noise and less privacy—unless a home has a great fence around the perimeter, that is. You might have to be creative to construct a useful sound barrier on a property. Here are some factors to consider when recommending fence products: Material and structure The heavier the fence, the fewer disturbances that will make their way into a yard. Different materials will interact with sound differently, but generally speaking, the more rigid a material, the better it will handle sound. Brick or stone masonry are clearly the most “rigid” choice, but can be cumbersome and expensive. Products reinforced with steel or other materials are also a good bet for blocking sound. When the sound has more layers to go through, the fence material is less likely to vibrate and amplify the sound waves when they hit it. However, a fence doesn’t have to be a brick wall to be impervious to noise. Materials such as layered wood, vinyl and polymer are also effective at dampening or blocking noise, assuming the fence provides coverage from the ground up and there aren’t any gaps or slats for soundwaves to slip through. Hedging and shrubbery can also help to absorb sounds if planted in front of the fence inside the yard. Landscaping features with running water, like fountains or constructed waterfalls, can help
MoistureShield’s new Elevate capped wood composite decking offers advanced protection and beauty within an entry-level budget. The strong, protective cap shields each board from impact, corrosion and harsh weather. Offered in Lake Fog gray and Canoe brown, Elevate also features the Solid Core Difference, a proprietary manufacturing process offering protection against moisture absorption, warping, rotting, and damage from insects right at the core of each board. The 5/4” deck boards come in 12- and 16-ft. lengths in grooved profiles and 20-ft. lengths with a solid edge for deck stairs and picture framing, as well as fascia boards in 12-ft. lengths. For additional information visit MOISTURESHIELD.COM or call  (866) 729-2378
G Wood Products, New York, NY, has been formed to serve as the exclusive US distributor of Tantimber's unique line of thermally treated wood products. Produced in a state-of-the-art facility in Sakarya, Turkey, the products provide stability and durability surpassing that of conventional wood by refining and transforming the internal structure of the wood through Tantimber's cutting-edge Thermowood process. Tantimber CEO Yakup Kayatas noted: "G Wood Products has reached a key distribution agreement with Tantimber which allows G Wood Products to offer eco-friendly thermally modified decking and siding products throughout the United States." G Wood Products include a wide variety of decking, siding and other lumber that meet standards set by the International Thermowood Association, and manufacturing guidelines as set by European Norms CEN/TS 15679. Kayatas added: "With sophisticated, value-added, and high-demand products such as charred sidings, fire-rated sidings and pre-aged products we are confident that G Wood Products will set new standards in the U.S. wood market."
Digger Specialties Inc. (DSI) has introduced Westbury Riviera aluminum railing that combines the best elements of a deck or porch railing system.