Latest Articles
Ripped-to-Width and Sorted-to-Width Interest Continues to Expand
Cascade Hardwood has invested in advanced ripping, sorting, and automation to meet rising demand for ripped-to-width (RTW) and sorted-to-width (STW) lumber. Our new line reduces waste, improves yield, and delivers precision products manufacturers need to stay efficient and competitive.
2026 IHLA Convention
The 2026 IHLA Convention brought fresh energy to Indianapolis, with strong attendance, wide geographic reach, and lively conversations across the hardwood supply chain. Optimism was in the air—but beneath it were important debates shaping what comes next for the industry.
Pacific Coast Bigleaf Maple
Pacific Coast Bigleaf Maple offers strong value for premium woodworking, with excellent workability, lighter density, and competitive pricing. With Sel&Btr inventory ready to ship, it’s a smart alternative to scarce Eastern Soft Maple.
2026 Housing Market
As 2026 begins, the housing market shows cautious optimism. Lower mortgage rates could improve affordability, support new construction, and revive buyer demand after a weak 2025. Builders remain encouraged despite lingering tariff concerns, while changes at the Federal Reserve may further shape the outlook and influence home improvement demand.
The Perils of Perfection
As thermally fused laminate mimics “perfect” wood at lower cost, real wood veneers face a perception problem. This article explores why authenticity, natural variation, and long-term value still matter in a market obsessed with uniformity.
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2026 Outlook
Planning for 2026 budgets led to a closer look at where housing is headed next. With affordability improving, remodeling activity holding firm, and design trends shifting toward quality and longevity, this article outlines what the coming year may mean for construction and renovation.
Home Depot CEO Flags Consumer Pullback Impacting Hardwood Lumber
Home Depot’s CEO is seeing a shift in how people tackle home projects as budgets tighten, slowing remodel sales and affecting key building materials. The trend may have bigger impacts on contractors and suppliers—especially lumber.
Looking Ahead to Q1 Alder Availability
Alder supply is tightening due to reduced softwood harvesting, regulatory shifts, and fewer mature stands available. We outline current challenges, what Cascade is doing to secure logs, and how customers can plan ahead to avoid shortages.
Vietnamese Tariffs and the Double-Edged Sword for U.S. Importers of Hardwood Products
Escalating U.S.–Vietnam trade tensions are putting pressure on American hardwood importers. As tariff debates reach the Supreme Court, small businesses face mounting uncertainty over costs, supply chains, and the future of global manufacturing.
Comparing Cascade Alder Appearance Grades
Alder hardwood’s fine grain and warm color make it a favorite for furniture, cabinetry, and millwork. Cascade offers three knotty appearance grades—Premium, Rustic, and Standard Frame—ranging from refined, tight-knot aesthetics to bold, rustic character-rich styles.
Understanding Alder Color Grades
Alder Color offers the same quality and performance as bright grades but with natural color variations like log stain or sticker shadow. Ideal for painted or dark-stained projects, it’s a cost-effective choice for cabinetry, trim, and furniture.
Bright Horizons at the NHLA Convention
Energized from the NHLA Convention in San Antonio, we connected with customers and saw optimism for hardwood’s future. Despite challenges, the industry’s embracing AI and innovation, ready to rebound stronger than ever.
Circle Sawn Knotty Alder
Discover our Circle Sawn line—crafted to recreate the authentic, rustic texture of old sawmill lumber. Ideal for V-joint or nickel-gap paneling, doors, and cabinets, it adds depth and character to any space. Samples available—contact your Cascade rep today!
Newly Announced Tariffs Targeting Kitchen Cabinets, Upholstered Furniture
New U.S. tariffs on timber, cabinets, and furniture are set to reshape global trade and domestic markets. Hardwood mills face uncertain demand, shifting supply chains, and pressure to adapt as duties rise in October and again in January.
Next Week’s National Hardwood Lumber Association Meeting Comes at a Pivotal Time
NHLA’s convention in San Antonio offers hardwood leaders networking, innovation, and industry insight. Visit Cascade at booth 104/106 to explore new products and discuss solutions for today’s market challenges.
Could an Extended Downturn in both Hardwood and Softwood Markets Be a Hangover for Years to Come?
Lumber price volatility and limited hardwood supply are driving builders, cabinetmakers, and furniture manufacturers toward substitutes like MDF and TFL. These alternatives offer lower costs, steady pricing, and trendy styles that reshape the market.
The Three-Legged Stool of Sawmilling
The decline in paper demand and shifting packaging trends are reshaping the hardwood industry. With fewer outlets for chips and sawdust, sawmills face pressure to find new markets for lower-grade logs. This could lead to higher prices for clear lumber and expanded use of hardwood in products like OSB, mouldings, and door cores. Alder remains better positioned than most species, with strong demand for chips, bark, and sawdust, while mills continue exploring new ways to maximize resources.
