Don, Framing lumber at most places is not fit for kindling. Since you are from the NW I would have assumed the quality there would be better than the mid-west. I use one of 3 REAL LUMBER yards for most framing lumber. It is better and they know they are paid upon delivery but they are expected to pick-up delivered garbage and replace it with good stuff. Price is about the same as the box-stores but they give a 10% - 12.5% discount.
As for volume-- until the big discounts- little volume is required from my suppliers------- & I'm not a big buyer. No spec but a house a year and some remodeling. Buying apartment buildings is a hobby. Those in a good neighborhood that have been let go are often inexpensive to buy. Out go the low paying tenants so work can be completed inside. A bit of fluff on the exterior and the rates go way up--- then sell the rented, remodeled structure... gains come from all directions there... besides upon completion positive cash flow is immediate and if you can stand being a landlord ______________________. Hey, they make nice gifts for the kids.
If not for shipping costs--- I have some great suppliers. I'm looking for another door supplier too,,, but for great quality on semi-custom or custom work I use these guys some,, designer-doors.com but never had any shipped. I'm not a fan of hollow interior doors either.
Kinda tough building a quality structure with scrap lumber,, for that reason I'm always looking for new suppliers & preferrably from small companies. There are some things like cabinets and doors it does not pay to make- but a decent shaper and hardwood makes short work of trim. You are correct-- people will pay for quality,, small things like solid doors vs hollow make a huge difference. |
