A Day in the Life of Marketing and Public Relations

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

A Day in the Life of Marketing and Public Relations

The marketing and public relations world is full of variety at Frank Miller Lumber. No two days are the same.  A wide range of activities are tackled to ensure our brand stays at the forefront of the industry and community.

Content creation is critical, whether writing blog posts or creating marketing literature for customers, architects, and designers. Our goal is to produce content that educates others while also working on advertising efforts, including designing ads.

Developing marketing campaigns involves coordinating with various departments. Most recently sample kits were assembled of red and white oak to educate users on how comparable the species are when stained.  Complementary literature was included in these efforts. This campaign resulted in inquiries and red oak sales.

Another important responsibility is overseeing the creation of social media content. Social media is a powerful tool for connecting with our audience and showcasing our brand, company culture, the hardwood we produce, and its end destinations.

The website is a critical touchpoint for customers keeping it updated with the latest stock list is essential. Regular updates ensure customers can access the most current information about our products.

The marketing and public relations world is ever-changing, from rebranding efforts to community o9utreach. For the latest news and updates, follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter.

Frank Miller Lumber: Global Reach and International Presence

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

We take satisfaction in our extensive history and commitment to delivering the finest hardwood lumber to customers worldwide. As a trusted name in the industry, we have built a robust international presence that allows us to service clients across the globe with the same dedication and quality that our local customers have come to expect.

A Legacy of Excellence

Established in 1903, Frank Miller Lumber has grown from a local sawmill to a global leader in the hardwood lumber industry. Our dedication to quality, sustainability, and innovation has allowed us to expand our reach far beyond our roots in Indiana. We proudly serve customers in 5 continents and 40 countries, delivering the highest-quality hardwoods to meet diverse needs and applications.

Strategic Partnerships and Global Distribution

Our success in the international market is built on strong partnerships and a well-established distribution network. By collaborating with trusted partners worldwide, we ensure that our products are available to customers wherever they are located.

Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Frank Miller Lumber. As we expand our international presence, we remain committed to responsible forestry practices and environmental stewardship. Our hardwoods are sourced from sustainably managed forests, and we adhere to stringent standards to ensure that our operations positively impact the environment. This commitment not only preserves our natural resources but also meets the growing demand for eco-friendly products in the global market.

Looking Ahead

 As we expand globally, we strive to continue pushing the boundaries in the hardwood lumber industry, guaranteeing our customers have access to the finest products and services worldwide. We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing our journey as one of the leading providers of premium American Hardwoods.

Whether you are in North America, Europe, or Asia, Frank Miller Lumber is here to meet your hardwood needs with unmatched quality and service. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how our global expertise and reach can support your projects.

A Day in the Life of Human Resources

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

Human Resources has evolved over the years. What once was known for hiring and firing has turned into much more.  In just one week, you could experience benefit essentials, the basics of workers’ compensation, FMLA, COBRA, OSHA and Safety, environmental, the Affordable Care Act, payroll, 401k plans, policy writing, training and development, and so much more.

The multitude of hats that need to be worn in Human Resources has become so vast that HR Managers need to be multi-talented, have strong interpersonal skills, and be well-versed in the latest technologies to complete tasks faster while keeping abreast of government regulations and compliance changes.

It doesn’t stop there!  In HR, you are the voice of the employees while keeping a healthy balance for the Company, ensuring everyone is engaged and heard.  Best practices are established to give employees confidence and respect while strategizing on coaching, counseling, and discipline.  HR can drive productivity by improving their experience and performance.

Employees are your greatest asset.  They are our number one priority!

Welcome to Human Resources!

The Unique Qualities of Red Oak: A Frank Miller Lumber Highlight

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

At Frank Miller Lumber, we take pride in supplying the highest-quality hardwoods to customers worldwide. Whether you’re a craftsman, architect, or designer, red oak stands out for its beauty, strength, and adaptability.

Aesthetic Appeal: The Beauty of Red Oak

Designer and Craftsman: Yew Studio

One of the most distinctive features of red oak is its open-grain pattern. This prominent grain enhances its visual appeal and makes it an excellent choice for staining. Red oak absorbs stains evenly, allowing for various finishes, from light and natural to deep and dark tones, giving artisans the flexibility to achieve the desired aesthetic.

Durability and Strength: Built to Last  

Red oak is not just about looks; it’s a workhorse in terms of durability and strength. Red oak is tough enough to withstand heavy use, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and demanding applications. Red oak is often used in flooring, cabinetry, and furniture – where longevity and resilience are key.

Sustainability: A Responsible Choice

 We are committed to sustainability at Frank Miller Lumber and red oak aligns perfectly with this commitment. Red oak is abundant in North America. By choosing red oak, you select a material of exceptional quality that supports sustainable forestry practices that help preserve our natural environment for future generations.

Why Red Oak from Frank Miller Lumber?

 We’ve been sourcing and supplying top-quality red oak for generations. Our commitment to excellence ensures that each piece of lumber we provide meets the highest quality and sustainability standards. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or embarking on your first woodworking project, red oak from Frank Miller Lumber is a choice that combines beauty, strength, and environmental responsibility.

Click here for more information.

 

Frank Miller Lumber Fine Woods - Exotic Hardwoods

Embracing a New Chapter: Welcome to Frank Miller Lumber Fine Woods

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

At Frank Miller Lumber, we’ve always been committed to providing top-quality lumber and unparalleled customer service. Over the years, we’ve grown and evolved, continually striving to meet and exceed the expectations of our valued customers. In recent weeks, we have slowly rolled the rebranding of our retail store to Frank Miller Lumber Fine Woods. This change reflects our dedication to enhancing our product offers and signifies our commitment to becoming your premier destination for the finest woods and woodworking materials.

Expanded Product Offerings

Bush Oil EZ-Sanding System

With our rebranding, we are excited to introduce an expanded range of products catering to various woodworking needs. Whether you are a professional carpenter, a dedicated hobbyist, or someone embarking on a DIY project, you will find an extensive selection of premium exotic hardwoods, locally made finishes, handcrafted gifts, and much more.

Our inventory includes:

Exotic Hardwoods: Explore rare and unique species from around the world, such as zebrawood, purpleheart, and padauk, ideal for crafting one-of-a-kind pieces.

Domestic Hardwoods: Choose from the finest quality oak, cherry, walnut, maple, and more, all sourced sustainably.

Specialty Plywood: Choose from various high-grade plywood, ideal for structural and decorative applications.

Live Edge Slabs: Experience the natural beauty of live edge slabs, each uniquely shaped and perfect for creating stunning tables, countertops, and other statement pieces.

Woodworking Accessories: Explore a range of finishes, sandpaper, and Bush Oil Product finishing kits to easily complete your projects.

A New Look, the Same Trusted Service

While our name and logo may have changed, our dedication to serving our customers remains unwavering. We are still the same family-owned business you have come to know and trust, now with a renewed focus on providing an even better shopping experience. We invite you to visit Frank Miller Lumber Fine Woods and experience the transformation yourself.

Thank you for your continued support and trust in Frank Miller Lumber Fine Woods.

For more information, please contact us at 765-964-7705 or [email protected].

American Hardwoods: An Environmentally Friendly Resource

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Written By: Bob Miller

Last month, I wrote about creating a healthy environment in your home for your family and pets by using products made from American Hardwoods. This month I will explain why these products come from one of the most sustainable and environmentally friendly resources. 

Hardwood forests are prevalent in every state, in the U.S. mainland.  However, the eastern half of the U.S. grows the majority of hardwoods.  This region extends from Minnesota down to Texas, all the way over to Florida, up to Maine, and all states in between.     

The hardwood forests in the U.S. are very sustainable.  Sustainability occurs when there is an ecological balance when a resource is removed yet that resource is not being depleted for future generations.  Each year we have more growth in our forests than what is removed through timber harvests.  The American Hardwood Export Council has done an excellent job representing the U.S. Forest Service, Department of Agriculture’s data, by state.  Indiana is growing almost twice the volume than is harvested.   The U.S. is growing two and a half times more volume than is harvested.  Refer to www.americanhardwood.org/environmental-profile/interactive-forest-map to see this data.

Hardwood forests and the products manufactured from the hardwood trees are environmentally friendly.  Hardwood trees are constantly consuming carbon dioxide (CO2) to assist with the production of a glucose substance that trees use as food.  The tree will break the carbon dioxide compound down, utilizing the carbon molecule to produce the glucose substance, and emit the oxygen molecules into the atmosphere.  Carbon is a greenhouse gas that negatively impacts the environment; therefore, trees are essentially improving our world. 

Hardwood trees have a life cycle, and that life cycle is dependent on the tree species.  Typically, most tree species can live to be approximately 150 years old.  Disease (viruses and fungi), weather (lightning and wind), fire, or insect infestations will eventually take the life of the tree.  When a tree dies and begins decomposing in the forest, it will release the unused carbon back into the atmosphere, further contributing to negatively impacting our environment.  Forest management is the practice where timber, wildlife, and plant life are managed to maintain or improve the overall forest ecosystem.  When a tree is at the end of its life cycle, it will be harvested to open the canopy to get sunlight to the forest floor.  Tree saplings grow close to the forest floor and need sunlight to grow.  Sunlight gives saplings the opportunity to become bigger trees. 

The tree that was harvested in the prior example will also produce income to the landowner since it has value to the lumber industry.  The value in that tree will disappear once the tree falls and begins to decompose in the forest.  In addition, forest management creates jobs.  Jobs are created when the trees are manufactured into lumber, and when that lumber is utilized to manufacture furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and millwork.  In 2016, an economic impact study was completed that showed the economic output of the hardwood industry in Indiana was over $10 billion and that industry employed over 61,000 people.  Refer to http://hardwoodfederation.com/Hardwood-Industry-Economic-Impact to see this data.   

Let us circle back to the carbon stored in the tree, which is now in the lumber that was used to produce the furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and millwork.  That carbon will always be stored in those products while those products are in use.  Did you know 50% of the wood’s weight in the furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and millwork is the stored carbon? Be a part of positively impacting our environment by purchasing products made from American Hardwoods.

We have been blessed with a sustainable and environmentally friendly resource when it comes to the hardwood forests in the U.S.  Forest management will keep our forests healthy, reduce our carbon emissions, and improve the forest ecosystems.  The products manufactured from these trees are beautiful, resilient, environmentally friendly, and can be enjoyed for generations.     

Creating a Healthy Environment for your Family

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Written By: Bob Miller – Director of Strategic Planning (Photo Credit: Wendy Silverstein)

The pandemic has changed our lives dramatically.  More people are working at home in spare rooms functioning as office space, hybrid school models have turned dining rooms into classrooms, and for many, vacations are being spent grilling, chilling, and playing in the back yard.  All this at-home time has led to a home remodeling frenzy. 

And just like the rest of the world, my wife and I are looking to upgrade many of the rooms in our home – from the features and materials to the room’s functionality.  We have determined our number one priority is the health of our family – just how healthy and environmentally sound are the product choices we make?

Although cost is important, we will not sacrifice our health, or the health of the environment for a less expensive product. 

I am sure you are asking yourself; what products are unhealthy choices for my family, which also includes my pets?  First consider floor coverings.  Hardwood floors do not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), they do not trap allergens, or contain unwanted chemicals. Hardwoods are essentially organic! Other flooring options trap mold which enhances allergies, emit VOCs, and require harsh cleaning solutions to maintain.  It is important to do your own research on the many flooring options before making the purchase.  Do not limit your research – become knowledgeable about the adhesives used to install the product, as well as any underlayment/moisture barrier materials.  Choose low-VOC or no-VOC products for the health and well-being of your family!

As a family member of Frank Miller Lumber Company, I have grown-up surrounded by hardwood products in both my home and work environment.  I love the warmth and beauty of hardwoods in my home, and I enjoy the calming environment it creates in our offices.

I have found great information to help me with my healthy material choice selections on the internet and through various social media sources.  Visit www.HardwoodInfo.com  specifically https://www.hardwoodinfo.com/consumer/treasured-for-generations/creating-a-naturally-healthy-home/ ) to learn more about the benefits of using Real American Hardwood products. You can search Instagram and Facebook for #RealAmericanHardwood and #AmericanHardwoods to find many home remodeling ideas.  Your family will thank you and so will Mother Earth!

You can be confident knowing American hardwood products are one of the healthiest material choices for flooring, cabinetry, millwork, and furniture.  They are extremely easy to maintain and will last for generations.  Next month, I’ll explain why they are also one of the most environmentally friendly resources.

Kauffman Center for Performing Arts: Helzberg Hall

The Truth About Quartersawn Red Oak!

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Quartersawn Red Oak has increasingly found its place as a premium hardwood choice for flooring, cabinetry, millwork and furniture. It is readily available and affordable.

The straight grain of quartersawn Red Oak will restrict its shrinkage to the thickness of the board as opposed to width.

Our forest has an abundant supply of Red Oak, which has a stronger growth trajectory than popular alternatives.

Medullary rays are shorter in Red Oak resulting in subtly figured “quartered” boards and “rift” boards that display straight grain with minimal flake.

This also minimizes warping and cupping. Its inherent qualities of stability, beauty, and durability places Red Oak in the company of other premium American hardwoods.

  • Kauffman Center
    Kauffman Center for Performing Arts: Helzberg Hall
  • Private Residence
  • ‘Fugu’ by Jasper Morrison Studio
  • Kauffman Center for Performing Arts: Helzberg Hall

Why Forest Management is Important to the Environment.

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Are you concerned about our climate? This is what Frank Miller Lumber is doing to ease your concerns.

Most people have heard trees are the best asset when it comes to protecting our environment from changes in the climate.  Climate change is often debated.  Some say we are not experiencing a change in our climate and that we are going through historical weather cycles we once experienced; others tend to say the opposite.  Regardless of your position on climate change, maintaining healthy forests is key to improving the world we live in.  Trees consume carbon dioxide to convert that compound into a food source for the tree.  Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas.  As trees consume and convert this compound using the carbon to help create its food, the trees respire the oxygen molecules for us to breath. 

Trees have a life cycle. 

A life cycle is nothing more than the number of years something is expected to live, be present, or exist before it dies, decomposes, or breaks down.  Through forest management, we remove the trees that are close to the end of their life cycle.  These trees will be manufactured into lumber to produce furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and millwork.  Better yet, you remember the carbon in these trees.  This carbon will be stored in these products indefinitely as long as these products are in use.  If a tree falls over and decomposes in the forest, it will release the unused carbon that it once stored.  That carbon will go back into the atmosphere.       

Not only do trees help us by taking a greenhouse gas out of the atmosphere and provide us with oxygen, but did you know trees are also a renewable resource?  A renewable resource is anything that can replenish itself.  So, when forest management is performed where trees are removed, new trees will grow from the stumps and root systems that remain in the forest.

Our nation has been truly blessed with some of the best forests in the world.  For these forests to be enjoyed on into the future and for us to have a better environment to live in, we must understand that forest management is essential in these forests.                           

Learn more about FSC-certified Hardwood.

Reasons Why You Should Consider Hardwood Flooring Exposed.

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Since the dawn of time, humans have argued over a very pressing issue: hardwood or carpet flooring? The debate continues to this day – some will praise the comfort a carpet provides while others prefer the more polished look of hardwood floors. But we hold a firm belief that, no matter what, hardwood floors are the way to go. Below is a list of reasons why you should consider hardwood flooring exposed.

1. Hardwood floors are easier to clean and maintain.

Carpets are prone to holding dust, skin, and hair. To get rid of these stomach-churning particles, you’ll need to vacuum. If you want them eliminated almost entirely, professional carpet cleaning services might be necessary. Luckily, hardwood floors don’t hold on to these particles. A quick sweep or mop will do the trick to keep your floor clean. We also all know the dreaded feeling of spilling a drink on carpet – it’s nearly impossible to get rid of the whole stain unless you call in professional Carpet Cleaning Melbourne or any other place for that matter. With hardwood floors, just grab a paper towel or rag, and you’re good!

Hardwood Flooring Exposed.

2. Hardwood floors are more durable and longer lasting.

As long as your hardwood floor is properly maintained, it can last for decades. Even a dent in the floor can be alleviated easily with a minor repair. They can be refined and polished to keep fresh and clean. Hardwood floors also take much longer to go out of style – remember shag carpets? Yeah, we’d like to forget that, too.

3. Hardwood floors are more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

While carpeting is usually manufactured with synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester, hardwood floors come from nature’s greatest gift: trees. They are produced naturally and created using the most abundant renewable resource in the world. You also have the option to research how sustainable your hardwood flooring really is using industry standards set by the Forest Stewardship Council and other like-minded organizations.

4. Hardwood floors can help you save energy.

Since wood is a conductor, hardwood floors allow the heat to pass through and circulate in your home, unlike carpet which acts as a barrier for hot air. This means longer-lasting heat, and consequently, less work from your furnace, and most importantly, lower heating bills.

5. Hardwood floors simply look more stylish.

Hardwood flooring is becoming trendier as the years go on. There is a seemingly endless amount of wood types, colors, and designs you can choose from that can bring out your inner interior designer. Different stains and polishes can help make your floors even more unique. Plus, a rug can really tie a room together.

Let’s face it: carpets are losing their popularity. If you want to keep current, hardwood flooring is the most logical option. For environmentally-conscious folk, there is nothing better for a home than a nature-friendly material like hardwood. And for those who love interior design, there are more opportunities to use your creativity and imagination, enabling you to put together a perfectly styled home. If you are currently building or planning on building a home, definitely think about installing hardwood instead of carpet – maybe, soon enough, this debate will end for good.