Are you building or remodeling your home?

Building or remodeling a home can be a stressful and intimidating experience. Home owners are often faced with difficult decisions, questions and unfamiliar situations. While the process itself can be stressful, the end result can be extremely rewarding. Constructing the home of your dreams isn’t always easy, but there are resources available to make the process less daunting.

Other than selecting a builder or general contractor, choosing where to purchase your building materials is one of the most important decisions a home owner can make. This choice has a direct impact on budgets, service, material quality, and time of completion. While the cost of materials is certainly important when selecting a supplier, it shouldn’t be the only factor you consider. It is imperative to select a building materials dealer you feel comfortable with as the process can span several months and may encompass a wide array of product categories.

You can’t put a price tag on the peace of mind that comes with working hand in hand with a knowledgeable, experienced salesperson that can provide the expertise to ease the stress associated with construction. Often, the choice boils down to a “big box” store or a local lumber yard. While the box stores certainly have their advantages, independent lumber yards and building materials dealers can be an invaluable resource. Why should you choose a local lumber yard over a box store? Here are five factors that should provide some clarity.

Longevity

On average, Rhode Island lumber yards have been in business for 50 years or more. Most are family-owned and operated, and have been passed down from generation to generation. These businesses have a wealth of knowledge and experience accumulated over decades of servicing the needs of their customers, along with strong ties to their respective communities.

Dedicated Sales Staffs

The staff at lumber yards are typically comprised of full-time, experienced, dedicated, salespeople who have spent their entire career in the building materials industry. They are often trained to be able to help consumers with a wide range of product categories, allowing you to concentrate on your design choices.

Personal Service

Our sales associates take the time to build relationships with our customers. They take pride in helping someone construct the home of their dreams. There is value in knowing that you can call the office and have the same person answer the phone, while servicing your account every single time. At a local lumber yard, you aren’t just a number; you are a unique individual with a unique set of wants and needs. Our teams work tirelessly to ensure that those needs are met every time.

Adaptability

A smaller management structure and corporate hierarchy make it easier for independent lumber yards to adapt and react to problems as they arise. Company decision-makers are accessible and available to you, leading to quick responses and shorter turnaround times should an issue need to be addressed.

Community Involvement

Independent dealers also give back to the local community; local lumber yards routinely make donations to various charitable organizations, provide material for projects that benefit their local neighbors, and sponsor youth sports teams and organizations. You matter to us!

Your local lumber yard can be a tremendous source of knowledge when constructing or remodeling your home. You’re not just our customers; you are our partners and friends. When building your home it’s important to remember we’re in this together!