Having trouble deciding where to buy wood? Do you head to the big-box store that has varying degrees of reliability in both quality and inventory, or do you pay a visit to your local lumber store that offers a variety of benefits? There’s no “wrong” answer to this question, just so we’re clear. However, when weighing the benefits a local lumber supply company holds over the bigger names—better quality, personalized service, competitive pricing, and quick delivery, to name a few—the choice seems pretty obvious to us. If you’ll give us your attention for a few minutes, we can open your eyes to all the ways local is better when it comes to your lumber supply options.
Superior Quality and Selection
Because of the high number of customers coming and going at big-box stores, quantity is frequently prioritized by them. Generally, this also translates to reduced quality. On the other hand, a local lumber store will likely provide better-graded materials that have fewer defects. The variety of wood species found at smaller stores is also much larger, as are specialty cuts and custom milling services. Whether you’re in search of hardwoods, pressure-treated wood, or custom-cut boards, a local lumber yard is more likely to have what you’re looking for. These are all rules rather than exceptions:
- High quality wood with minimal defects
- Large variety of wood species
- Vast array of custom milling options
- High durability and better longevity
Expert Knowledge and Personalized Service
While you’re researching where to buy wood, consider not just the products, but the people who will be able to help you during the buying process. At a locally owned establishment, you’re likely to interact with staff who have much more knowledge of what they’re selling when compared to their big-box counterparts. They can provide valuable insights and give informed tips on the lumber that fits your projects, as well as handling techniques and even installation tips—though many projects involving lumber are best left to the professionals.
This level of personalized service is difficult to find at bigger stores, where staff turnover is typically higher. Whether this is your first project or your hundredth, there’s valuable knowledge to be imparted by staff at a local lumber supply store. This expert advice has the potential to save you loads of time and money!
Supporting the Local Economy
Want to support your local community? The health of its economy is vital to it! You’ve probably heard the phrases “shop small” or “shop local.” That’s because they’re businesses that are relying on the support of other community members for business. But that’s only a small part of why you should shop small.
When a small business thrives, it’s able to grow. When it grows, it can provide more jobs to fulfill its business needs. In addition, many small businesses source materials from regional suppliers—in the case of Ladiesburg Lumber, we source from a local mill. All of these actions support and strengthen the local supply chain. When that supply chain is strong, the community’s economic health is, as well. Growth can then take off!
Competitive Pricing and Cost Savings
Most people hold the assumption that small businesses are more expensive than the big-name establishments. While you can find enticing prices at chain stores, a local lumber store is likely to offer competitive pricing through:
- Bulk purchasing options
- Discounts for repeat customers and contractors
- Quality materials that limit waste and reduce long-term costs
When you purchase top-tier lumber from a local business, you’re reducing the frequency of issues down the road, in turn saving a substantial amount of money.
Convenient Availability and Quick Delivery
Large retailers have to meet high demand, so they’re often limited to national distribution networks in order to fulfill orders. Conversely, a small business has more wiggle room, because the local suppliers they use have fewer supply chain disruptions. This means orders can be filled more quickly and reliably. Whether it’s an urgent project that needs to be done yesterday or you need a very specific type of wood, a local lumber supply yard can stock it in an impressively small amount of time (if they don’t already have it). In addition, many of these lumber yards (our’s included) offer flexible options for pickup and delivery, making it easier to do things on your terms.
A Lumber Supply Company You Can Trust
Buying lumber can be a bit stressful if you don’t know what considerations to make. We have the utmost respect for big-box stores, but their offerings simply can’t compete with what a small lumber supply business offers—superior selection, personalized experiences, competitive pricing, and delivery flexibility. If you want the best quality materials for your lumber project, you won’t regret trusting Ladiesburg Lumber with your needs. Get in touch today so you can build something great tomorrow!
