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The lumber and building materials (LBM) industry is evolving rapidly. Contractors are facing labor shortages, rising costs, and stricter building requirements, creating demand for products that are faster to install, more durable, and easier to maintain. Here are four material and product trends that are changing the industry today. 1. Low-Maintenance Outdoor Living SystemsHomeowners continue to invest in outdoor living spaces, and builders are looking for products that offer long-term performance with minimal upkeep. Many dealers are now offering complete outdoor living systems that include:
Manufacturers are also introducing matching siding, cladding, and fencing products that help create a seamless, modern exterior design. 2. Labor-Saving ProductsWith skilled labor in short supply, contractors are prioritizing materials that reduce installation time and simplify projects. Popular labor-saving solutions include:
These products help crews work more efficiently while reducing waste and installation errors. 3. Sustainable Building MaterialsSustainability is becoming a bigger factor in purchasing decisions for builders and homeowners alike. Growing product categories include:
These materials help meet environmental goals without sacrificing performance or durability. 4. Weather-Resistant Building ProductsAs building codes become stricter and severe weather events become more common, demand is growing for products designed to withstand the elements. Some of the fastest-growing categories include:
These materials help builders create stronger, longer-lasting structures while meeting evolving code requirements. The Bottom LineToday's contractors need products that save time, improve performance, and stand up to real-world conditions. LBM dealers who focus on labor-saving, sustainable, and weather-resistant materials will be better positioned to meet customer demand and stay competitive in a changing market.
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The 9th Edition Florida Building Code takes effect on December 31, 2026, and it could have a big impact on lumber and building material suppliers, manufacturers, and dealers across the state. The new code adopts updated national building standards, including the 2024 International Codes and ASCE 7-22 structural requirements. In simple terms, some products that meet code today may no longer qualify after the deadline. Any permit application submitted on or after December 31, 2026, must comply with the new code. That means suppliers and manufacturers should start preparing now to avoid inventory issues and missed sales opportunities. 1. More Areas Will Require Impact-Rated ProductsOne of the biggest changes is the expansion of areas that require impact-resistant building products. What Changed? What It Means for LBM Dealers 2. New Wind Load RequirementsFlorida is adopting the ASCE 7-22 standard, which changes how wind pressures are calculated on buildings. What Changed? What It Means for LBM Dealers 3. Higher Energy Efficiency StandardsThe new code also raises energy-efficiency requirements. What Changed? What It Means for LBM Dealers 4. Product Approval Updates Could Cause DelaysFlorida requires many building products to have State Product Approvals. What Changed? What It Means for LBM Dealers What Should LBM Businesses Do Now?1. Review Your InventoryIdentify products that may not meet the new code and develop a plan to reduce inventory before the deadline. 2. Educate Your CustomersHost lunch-and-learns, contractor events, or training sessions to help builders understand the upcoming changes. Becoming a trusted resource can strengthen customer relationships and generate new business. 3. Verify Your SuppliersTalk with manufacturers now about their compliance plans. Partnering with suppliers that are already preparing for the 2026 code update can help prevent future headaches. Bottom LineThe 2026 Florida Building Code update is more than just a code change. It will affect product demand, inventory planning, and purchasing decisions across the building materials industry. Companies that prepare early will be in a much better position to serve customers, avoid inventory problems, and take advantage of new opportunities when the code goes into effect. Florida’s construction market continues to grow, and major Lumber & Building Materials (LBM) companies are expanding to keep up with demand. Across the state, large distributors are acquiring local lumberyards, truss manufacturers, and building supply companies to strengthen their operations and improve service for builders. Here are five major developments helping reshape Florida’s building supply landscape.
The Deal: US LBM acquired Milton Truss. Why It Matters: Roof and floor trusses play a major role in Florida construction, especially in regions with strict hurricane-related building requirements. With the addition of Milton Truss, US LBM expanded its component manufacturing presence in Florida through its Raymond Building Supply division. The move strengthens the company’s ability to serve builders in the Florida Panhandle and parts of southern Alabama.
The Move: Builders FirstSource (BFS) continues expanding and optimizing its Florida footprint. Why It Matters: Jacksonville remains an important market for BFS as the company continues focusing on distribution efficiency and manufactured building components. Like many large LBM suppliers, BFS has been investing in operational improvements designed to support faster deliveries and increased builder demand throughout growing markets.
The Deal: US LBM acquired L.D. Mullins Lumber Company. Why It Matters: Founded in 1946, Riviera Beach-based L.D. Mullins Lumber built long-standing relationships with builders and remodelers throughout South Florida. The acquisition expanded US LBM’s Florida presence to 18 locations and strengthened its reach in one of the country’s busiest construction markets.
The Deal: RoMac Building Supply acquired Thomas Lumber. Why It Matters: Regional building suppliers are growing alongside national companies. By adding Thomas Lumber, RoMac increased its capabilities in Central Florida, including lumber supply, millwork operations, and delivery capacity. The move helps the company support continued residential and commercial growth throughout the Orlando area.
The Deal: US LBM acquired Manning Building Supplies. Why It Matters: This acquisition added nine Florida locations to US LBM’s network, including seven building supply yards and two truss manufacturing facilities. Combined with Raymond Building Supply, the deal strengthened US LBM’s presence across many of Florida’s largest housing markets, including Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Sarasota. As Florida construction activity continues to increase, builders are relying more heavily on suppliers that can provide multiple products and services under one roof.
Many larger LBM companies now offer framing lumber, trusses, doors, windows, and other building materials through integrated operations designed to improve efficiency and delivery times. For contractors, these expansions may help improve product availability and support growing demand across the state. The construction and Lumber & Building Materials (LBM) industries are changing fast. More women are stepping into leadership roles, running projects, and driving innovation across jobsites, offices, and supply chains. If you’re a woman working in the trades—or know someone who deserves recognition—these awards can be a great way to highlight achievement and open new doors. Here are 5 well-known awards programs that celebrate women in construction and LBM: 1. Top Women in Hardware & Building Supply Awards
2. QXO Female Roofing Professional of the Year
3. SunRay Top Women in Construction Awards
4. NAWIC Awards and Recognition
5. Construction Dive’s Construction Champions
If you work in the lumber and building materials (LBM) industry, staying sharp matters. These podcasts break down sales tips, operations ideas, pricing updates, and industry trends in a simple, practical way you can use right away. 1. The Craft of LBM Sales Podcast
2. LBM Talks
3. LBM Journal Sales Podcast
4. The Lumber Word
5. Lumber Talks (NLBMDA)
 For a long time, most workplace safety gear was designed using the “standard male body” as the default. That might have worked when most workers in certain industries were men, but it creates real problems now that more women are in construction, manufacturing, utilities, and other field-heavy jobs. The issue isn’t just comfort. Poorly fitting gear can actually reduce protection and increase the risk of injury.For a long time, most workplace safety gear was designed using the “standard male body” as the default. That might have worked when most workers in certain industries were men, but it creates real problems now that more women are in construction, manufacturing, utilities, and other field-heavy jobs. The issue isn’t just comfort. Poorly fitting gear can actually reduce protection and increase the risk of injury. 1. “Unisex” often just means men’s gear in smaller sizesIn many cases, “unisex” PPE is simply scaled-down men’s equipment. The problem is that women’s bodies aren’t just smaller versions of men’s. Differences in shoulder width, torso length, hip shape, and waist-to-chest ratios all affect how gear fits. So instead of fitting properly, jackets might pull tight in the hips but hang loose in the shoulders, or gloves might fit fingers but be too wide in the palm. When PPE doesn’t sit correctly on the body, it can shift during work or fail to protect key areas. 2. Poor fit can turn PPE into a hazardSafety gear is supposed to reduce risk, but oversized or poorly fitted equipment can introduce new dangers. Long sleeves or loose pant legs can get caught in machinery or moving parts. Boots that are too large can cause instability, leading to slips, trips, and falls. Even something as simple as a hard hat that doesn’t sit correctly can shift during movement and reduce visibility or protection. If a worker constantly has to roll up sleeves, tuck in excess fabric, or adjust gear throughout the day, that gear is no longer functioning as intended. 3. Safety harnesses don’t account for different body shapesFall protection equipment is one of the most critical safety systems on job sites, but most harnesses were originally designed around male proportions. On many women, chest straps can sit too high or too low, crossing in uncomfortable or awkward places. Leg loops and shoulder straps may not align properly with the body’s center of gravity. In a fall situation, this improper fit can cause uneven force distribution, increasing the risk of injury, bruising, or even suspension trauma. A harness only works as intended when it fits the body it’s protecting. 4. Improvised “fixes” create hidden risksWhen properly fitting PPE isn’t available, workers often make their own adjustments just to get through the day. This can include rolling sleeves and securing them with tape, stuffing extra socks into boots, tightening loose gear with clips, or modifying straps. While these workarounds may seem harmless, they can compromise the integrity of the equipment. PPE is tested and certified in its original form. Once it’s altered, it may no longer perform as designed in an emergency, which creates a false sense of safety. 5. Fit impacts confidence, safety culture, and retentionBeyond the physical risks, ill-fitting PPE also has a psychological and cultural impact. Wearing gear that clearly wasn’t designed for your body sends a subtle message that you weren’t fully considered in the workplace design. Over time, that can affect confidence, comfort on the job, and even long-term retention in male-dominated industries. Workers who constantly struggle with uncomfortable or impractical gear are more likely to feel disengaged or excluded. Properly fitting PPE is not just about compliance, it’s about making sure every worker can do their job safely and effectively. The Bottom Line: With new OSHA mandates requiring that gear must properly fit each employee, the era of "one size fits men" is coming to an end. True safety requires gear that respects the diversity of the people wearing it.
Millwork, also known as trim work, cabinetry, and custom wood details, is playing a bigger role than ever in home design. In 2026, the focus is on making spaces feel warm, functional, and personal. These trends combine good looks with everyday practicality. Here are the top millwork trends to know:  1. Warm Wood Is BackLight gray and cool tones are fading out. Rich wood colors like walnut, cherry, and oak are making a strong return. These tones add warmth and make a space feel more comfortable and lived in instead of cold or plain. 2. Textured Wood SurfacesFlat, smooth surfaces are being replaced with texture. Grooved wood, like fluted or ribbed panels, adds depth and catches light throughout the day. You will see this on cabinets, kitchen islands, and accent walls. 3. Bold Wall Paneling and TrimTrim and paneling are no longer just background details. Features like wainscoting, slat walls, and thicker trim are being used to create standout walls that add character and make a room feel more finished. 4. Built-Ins That Save SpaceCustom storage is becoming a must-have. Built-in cabinets, shelves, and desks help keep things organized while blending into the design. This keeps rooms looking clean without adding extra furniture. 5. Matte FinishesShiny finishes are becoming less popular. Matte and low-sheen finishes give a softer, more modern look. They also do a better job of hiding fingerprints, dust, and everyday wear. 6. Two-Tone CabinetsMixing colors or wood tones in the same space is a simple way to add interest. For example, lighter cabinets on top and darker ones below can create contrast and make the space feel more custom. 7. Mixing MaterialsWood is being combined with materials like metal, glass, and stone. This adds variety and gives a more modern feel while also improving durability in high-use areas. 8. Bringing Nature IndoorsNatural elements are becoming more important in design. Wood grain, plants, and natural finishes help create a calm and relaxing environment that feels connected to the outdoors. 9. Ceiling DetailsCeilings are getting more attention than before. Adding wood beams, panels, or patterns can draw the eye upward and make the whole room feel more complete and thoughtfully designed 10. More Personal StyleHomes are becoming more unique. Instead of choosing standard options, people are going with custom colors, finishes, and designs that reflect their personal style and how they live. Where You’ll See These Trends
The Bottom LineMillwork in 2026 is about more than just looks. It helps create spaces that feel warmer, stay organized, and work better for everyday life.
A new study from the National Association of Home Builders shows something interesting: more young adults are finally warming up to the idea of working in the trades. It’s not a massive shift yet—but it’s definitely heading in that direction. Here’s what’s driving it... 1. Interest Is Growing… Just SlowlyMore young people are considering construction than they were 10 years ago. The number has doubled, but it’s still relatively small overall. That means awareness is improving, but most young adults still aren’t seeing it as a go-to career option just yet. 2. Money and Real-World Skills Matter MostWhen young adults do look at the trades, they’re drawn to two main things: solid pay and learning skills they can actually use in the real world. It’s not just about making a living, it’s about building something tangible and gaining experience that can last a lifetime.  NVIDIA CEO, Jensen Huang, says the rapid growth of data center construction is expected to generate a significant number of jobs in the skilled trades. 3. There’s a Huge Need for WorkersThe construction industry is dealing with a serious labor shortage. There simply aren’t enough workers to keep up with demand, especially with the ongoing housing shortage. Over the next few years, millions of new workers will be needed to fill the gap and keep projects moving. 4. Career Uncertainty Is Opening New DoorsA lot of young people today aren’t completely sure what they want to do long-term. Compared to a decade ago, fewer feel locked into a specific career path. That uncertainty is actually creating opportunity, as more people are open to exploring options like the trades. 5. Pay Is a Bigger Motivator Than EverFor many young adults, money is the turning point. More people say they would consider a career in construction if the pay is high enough, and in many cases, it already is. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows construction jobs often pay at or above the national average, with top earners making significantly more. That’s changing how people think about these careers. 6. Big Projects and New Technology Are Creating More OpportunitiesFrom housing developments to massive data center builds, demand for construction is only increasing. Even the rise of new technology like AI is driving more physical infrastructure, which means more jobs in the trades. These roles aren’t going away anytime soon, and in many cases, they’re harder to replace than traditional office jobs. The perception of construction careers is starting to shift. More young adults are open to the idea, but there’s still work to do in showing just how strong the opportunity really is. The jobs are there. The pay is there. Now it’s about getting more people to take a serious look. Ready to Get Involved? Join FBMA Today
If you want to be part of shaping the future of the building industry, now is the time to step in. The Florida Building Material Association connects you with the people, resources, and opportunities that move this industry forward. Join FBMA to build relationships, stay ahead of trends, and play a role in developing the next generation of skilled professionals. JOIN NOW The Lumber and Building Materials industry is evolving quickly as AI becomes more practical in everyday operations. These tools are now helping companies improve customer service, speed up estimating, simplify sales cycles, and run more efficient supply chains. 1. Epicor BisTrack
2. STACK Construction Takeoff
3. Togal.AI
4. SalesJack
5. ECI EvolutionX and Spruce eCommerce
6. Gridlex AI CRM
7. Procore
8. ChatGPT and Claude
9. NotebookLM
10. Zapier
AI in the LBM industry is not about replacing people, but about improving speed, accuracy, and efficiency across daily operations. Companies that adopt these tools are able to respond faster to customers, produce more accurate bids, and manage inventory and supply chains more effectively. Over time, this leads to stronger customer relationships and increased profitability.
 The LBM Industry in 3 Key Updates. Find out how consolidation, new tariffs, and tech adoption are fundamentally changing the way you buy materials, manage costs, and schedule work. 1. Big Companies Are Buying Up the Locals (M&A)What's Happening? The largest national suppliers (like Builders FirstSource and Home Depot) are buying smaller, local, or specialized building material companies at an incredibly fast pace. Think of it as a few giants consolidating the entire supply chain. Why It Matters to You:
Where to Read More:
2. New Taxes on Wood are Hitting Your Wallet (Tariffs)What's Happening? The government has added new taxes (tariffs) on wood and wood products imported from other countries. This instantly makes a lot of the materials the U.S. relies on more expensive. Why It Matters to You:
Where to Read More:
3. Tech is Taking Over the Lumber Yard (AI & Digital)What's Happening? The lumber industry is finally using advanced technology, like Artificial Intelligence (AI), to run things better. They are moving far beyond just simple websites and online ordering. Why It Matters to You:
Where to Read More:
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The Florida Building Material Association (FBMA) is dedicated to fostering a thriving business community by providing unparalleled opportunities for professional networking and collaboration. We strive to support our members through access to cutting-edge resources for continuing education, while promoting innovative uses of building material products and services.
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