News

Comfort. Air quality. Energy savings.

These are just a few reasons why quality insulation is essential for a successful new build or renovation. The primary job of insulation is quite simple: Keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

A full renovation is a great investment in the value of your home.

But it also requires a huge commitment of time and resources.

If you’re looking for quicker, simpler updates, there are many do-it-yourself projects well-suited for beginners that can make a real difference in the appearance of your home.

More people are looking to transform their homes into a calming escape from the hectic world outside as 2024 unfolds.

Helpful technologies, energy efficiency and storage solutions are in high demand, along with kitchen and bathroom updates. Outdoor living and traditional interiors are also big priorities for homeowners this year.

Any seasoned contractor will tell you the quality of your tools will make or break a project.

And from demolition to cutting lumber to custom details, a power saw is an essential part of any toolkit. 

So your home feels a bit dated, but a full remodel is a little out of reach.

If that sounds like you, here’s some good news.

There are many small improvements that can freshen up your home without the time, money and hassle of a total renovation. You can start by making a list of improvements you need the most. Focus on your top priorities for now and save other projects for later.

A beautiful bathroom starts with a beautiful vanity.

As the focal point of your space, the vanity sets the tone for your bathroom decor. It also provides convenient storage to eliminate clutter. From a large double vanity to a classic pedestal sink, there’s no shortage of ideas for achieving the form and function you’re looking for.

Have you been looking at new homes for sale but haven’t quite found what you need?

If so, building a new home from scratch might be your best option.

The anticipation of living in a brand new home can be both exciting and intimidating. What will your new home look like? Where will you build it? Who will build it? Where will you find the materials you need? And of course, how much will it cost?

At Mid-City Lumber, we’ve helped many people just like you navigate the process of building a home. To help you out, we’ve put together a handy overview of what you can expect, from initial planning to your final walkthrough.

Outdoor spaces add a unique energy that enhances the joy of living in your home. 

And nothing gives you the best of outdoor living all year long quite like a screened-in porch. 

It’s the perfect way to get some fresh air while protecting against pesky insects or inclement weather. Your porch can serve as an elegant outdoor dining room, an open-air entertainment center or simply a place to relax and unwind while enjoying the great outdoors.

From planning your overall design to choosing the right materials, there are many important steps to consider when adding a screened-in porch to your home. Here are our 5 helpful tips for making your project a success!

Need to perk up a tired kitchen? Look no further than brand new cabinets!

Well-designed cabinets set the tone for the look and feel of your space. They keep your kitchen organized and free of clutter. 

That makes choosing the perfect cabinets an essential part of any renovation or new build. They’re also a wonderful option if you’re looking to make a small change with a big impact. 

If you love working with your hands and office work just isn’t for you, the construction industry offers an exciting career with lots of possibilities.

It’s no secret that saving money on energy is a big priority these days.

The good news is there are many home improvements you can make that’ll do just that. 

Even better news?

Energy efficient home improvements offer many benefits besides just lowering utility costs. They can help you enjoy greater comfort and indoor air quality. Many projects that are good for the environment are also good for overall durability and lower maintenance costs over the life of your home. On top of that, some improvements may also reduce your tax bill!

If you’re looking to give your home an instant refresh, custom doors are an excellent choice. 

Entry and interior doors alike offer a wide range of aesthetic and functional benefits. A beautiful, sturdy front door enhances curb appeal and provides extra security. Interior doors come in a wide range of styles and pull together your home’s decor. 

If you’re planning a new build, addition or other home renovation, quality lumber should be at the top of your shopping list.

The right type of wood ensures the strength and stability of your home. Wood provides thermal insulation for greater efficiency and improves acoustics for indoor noise control. On top of all that, wood elements enhance the aesthetic value of doors, windows, cabinets, floors and trim.

Comfort and functionality are big priorities for homeowners in 2023. 

Building and remodeling experts are seeing demand for natural materials and color schemes that reflect a sense of optimism and stability. Eco-friendly features are also popular as homeowners look to cut energy bills and boost efficiency. 

If your plans for 2023 include a remodel or new build, be sure to invest in the tools you need to get the job done right. 

Mid-City Lumber offers a wide assortment of high-quality power tools from trusted manufacturers, including Milwaukee, DeWalt and more. From powerful, cordless saws and drills to sanders, combo kits and accurate measuring devices, we’ve got everything you need to complete your work both safely and efficiently. You’ll also want to ask about tools that can be safely operated by right- and left-handed users!

Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY warrior, here are the latest tools to put on your shopping list to make your project a success.

Countertops. Flooring. Paint colors.

All of these are essential in creating the perfect home design.

But there’s one more key ingredient that pulls all of these elements together, and that’s your lighting fixtures.

Just think of lighting as the spark that brings the rest of your decor to life!

From eye-catching curb appeal to energy efficiency, it’s hard to overstate the importance of quality doors and windows. 

Making the right purchase here adds to the beauty and value of your home. Doors and windows also play an essential role in home security and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.

Global inflation and supply chain issues continue to affect construction and remodeling along with other industries throughout the world.

Even in the face of these challenges, construction plays a significant role in economic vitality at the local, national and international levels. The global construction industry is projected to reach a total of $10.5 trillion by 2023. Construction also comprised 4.2% of the U.S. GDP in 2021, clocking in at $958 billion. 

Is your bathroom starting to look a little outdated?

If so, brand new tile is a great way to breathe new life into your space. Your tile sets the tone for the look and feel of your bathroom. And with such a wide variety of sizes, styles and colors available, there’s no shortage of possibilities to inspire you.

There’s something uniquely heartwarming about an older home.

In a world where fads come and go in the blink of an eye, it’s nice to come home to a house with a sense of history. Many homes built decades ago feature quality craftsmanship, elegant architecture and one-of-a-kind details that add value and personality. 

Is your kitchen starting to look a little dated?

If so, you’ve got lots of options when it comes to bringing your space into the here and now. You could switch out cabinet doors for a new look and feel, spruce things up with a fresh coat of paint or go all-out with a total kitchen renovation. 

There’s no better place to be when the weather is nice than your own backyard deck.

From hosting friends on a warm evening to sipping your morning coffee as the sun rises, it’s the perfect setting for an inviting outdoor living space.

If you’re thinking of building a dream deck of your very own, there are many styles to choose from. You could go with a classic attached deck or a detached floating deck. Other options include a screened-in deck for more comfortable year-round use, or an above-ground pool deck for a splash of summer fun. 

And whether you plan to build your own deck or hire a pro, choosing the right materials is essential for completing a successful project. To help you start your shopping list, here’s an overview of what you’ll need to look for.

You’ve scoured the internet. You’ve made your wish list. And now you’re ready to jump into that big remodel you’ve been dreaming about.

But there’s one step you may have missed.

Did you get a permit?

Most home improvements, including many DIY projects, require a permit from either your city or county government. Because the exact list varies from one location to another, you should always check with your local building department to be sure. The permit approval process can take up to six weeks, so you’ll need to factor that in when setting a timeline for your project. 

If you’re looking to update your home, new flooring is an excellent choice for almost any room. It’s also one of the most important decisions if you’re planning a new build.

Wood has long been one of the most popular flooring materials available. Other trends may come and go, but homeowners from every generation find that wood blends perfectly with traditional and contemporary designs alike.

It’s no secret that we’ve all spent more time at home over the last few years.

The pandemic era has given us a renewed appreciation of just how much our immediate surroundings impact our emotions and overall wellbeing.

To that end, building and remodeling trends reflect a growing interest in mindfulness. People are gravitating toward design elements that promote a sense of calm, comfort and optimism. Personal touches are another big priority, as homeowners look to include features inspired by favorite hobbies and interests.

Have you got a home improvement or new construction project on your to-do list for 2022?

If so, make sure you’ve got the best suited tools on hand to get the job done right!

Just because doing the laundry is mundane doesn’t mean your laundry room has to be!

Utilitarian spaces offer lots of possibilities for blending fun and functionality. You’ll want plenty of room for sorting, washing, drying, ironing and folding clothes. You’ll also need ample storage space to keep laundry supplies close at hand. 

On top of all that, a cheerful decor goes a long way toward making laundry day a little less ho-hum and a little more enjoyable. Bright colors, clever patterns and fresh design elements are all great options for injecting some personality into your space.

Your kitchen countertops play a starring role in one of the most important spaces in your home. 

The material you choose sets the tone for the style and function of your kitchen. Do you prefer a flawless finish, or do you find so-called “imperfections” appealing? What about your cooking habits? You’ll need something that can take the heat, spills and scratches of day-to-day food prepping. Other factors to consider include your budget and the resale value of your home. 

Are you looking to increase the livable space in your home?

That unfinished basement downstairs offers loads of potential! Think of it as a blank canvas that can be transformed into many different types of spaces. 

Continued economic expansion offers a promising environment for the construction industry in the remainder of 2021, even as lingering challenges remain from the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you need to bring your home into the current decade, a bathroom remodel is the perfect place to start. It’s a great way to add comfort, convenience and value to your home. 

There are many wonderful options for designing your own personal oasis where you can relax and unwind at the end of a busy day. Bringing your dream bathroom to life also takes the right materials. You want your floors, walls, vanity, cabinets and lighting to complement each other and create a cohesive look and feel.

If you’re updating your kitchen, you’ve got lots of options. Besides fabulous countertops and the latest appliances, another big decision is where to put all the essential items that go in your kitchen.

A lack of ample storage space leads to messy pantries, cluttered drawers and crowded spice racks. You’ve got utensils, dinnerware and glassware to think about, along with small appliances and food items. And where will all those container lids go?

Redesigning your kitchen storage is all about keeping everything close at hand while cutting out clutter. It’s a great way to boost convenience and aesthetics while adding value to your space. Let’s take a look at some of our favorite ideas for updating storage design for a kitchen of any size!

With people spending more time at home these days, outdoor living spaces have taken on renewed importance. Decks, porches and patios offer the perfect place for social gatherings or a little quiet solitude after a hectic day.

Even as we venture back out into the world more frequently, many still crave a little fresh air upon returning home. There are many options for improving your outdoor spaces, from a new deck to an outdoor kitchen to new landscaping.

Did you know that up to 20% of your energy bill may be wasted because of poor efficiency? 

Remodeling your home is a great way to cut those utility costs, make your home more comfortable and attract future buyers. If you’re wondering how to increase energy efficiency, there are a number of improvements you’ll want to consider, starting with a home energy audit. 

The open floor plan has been a staple of contemporary homes for over half a century. Driven by casual lifestyles and a desire for convenience, the familiar kitchen-living-dining combination has dominated home design ever since gaining popularity in the 1950s. 

But as with so many aspects of our lives, COVID-19 has some homeowners seeking out the more closed-off spaces that were common before World War II. Today’s families need practical, flexible floor plans that let parents and children each have their own respective spaces to work and learn. Building and real estate experts are speculating that these trends may continue even as life returns to a pre-pandemic way of life. 

Whether you’re planning a new build or remodel, you may be unsure of whether to go with an open or closed floor plan — or a mix of both. To help you decide, let’s review some of the pros and cons of each.

Read more »

If you’re thinking about selling your home this year, you’ve got plenty of company.

Zillow is predicting strong growth in home sales, as increased availability of the COVID-19 vaccine has people feeling optimistic. With demand increasing, more sellers are taking the plunge and putting that “For Sale” sign out in the yard.

As competition increases, how can you make sure your home stands out from the crowd? Here’s a summary of home improvement projects that can increase home value and generate interest among would-be buyers.

Read more »

A new year brings with it a renewed sense of optimism, even as we continue grappling with the challenges that came our way in 2020.

Instead of always venturing out for work, school and shopping, we’ve gotten used to performing these activities at home. Experts predict that many of the changes we’ve seen over the past year will linger even after the COVID-19 pandemic ends. Examples include telecommuting, virtual meetings and remote education.

Our ever-evolving lifestyles are also reflected in the building and remodeling projects homeowners are taking on. Here are some of the trends that are showing up on this year’s home design wish lists.

Read more »

Advanced construction technologies played a crucial role in helping contractors navigate the many challenges of 2020. 

Like other sectors, the construction industry has experienced significant impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. Many innovations have seen increased adoption over the past 12 months as companies place greater emphasis on safety, efficiency and cost savings. Other cutting-edge solutions promote tighter coordination and agility as conditions evolve over the life of a project. 

Let’s take a closer look at the high-tech tools that are helping contractors position themselves for success in 2021 and beyond.

Read more »

A fabulous floor is essential for making the most of any room. 

Whether you’re building your dream home or updating an existing property, you’ll find a variety of flooring materials available. So how do you know which flooring is best for you?

Read more »

Today’s bathroom is more than just a place to wash up or get ready for the day. It’s also a calming retreat where you can enjoy a much-needed respite from the hectic world outside. 

With so many fresh designs to choose from, there’s no shortage of options for creating your own personal oasis. You’ll also find a plethora of ways to add safety, comfort and convenience for aging in place.

Whether you’re planning a bathroom remodel or new build, here are some of our favorite ideas to get you started!

Read more »

Whether you’re planning a new build or remodel, windows and doors play a major role in boosting curb appeal. They also impact the beauty, comfort and efficiency of your home.

Many homeowners today are gravitating toward large openings for abundant natural lighting, enhanced by attractive framing in a variety of customizable designs. It’s important to choose high quality materials that can withstand the ravages of mother nature and the wear and tear of father time.

Let’s take a look at some of this year’s best materials and design ideas for your windows and exterior doors.

Read more »

Just like every other industry, construction continues to deal with the impact of COVID-19 in the latter half of 2020.

More than 5 million Americans have been infected by the novel coronavirus, with more than 170,000 fatalities as of mid-August. In Missouri, more than 68,000 cases and over 1,300 deaths have been reported.

The pandemic has also brought economic disruption, with millions out of work and many businesses — including contractors — facing an uncertain environment.

Recent indicators point to both positive signs and ongoing challenges. Construction spending actually increased by 5% during the first 6 months of 2020 from the same period in 2019, totaling $667.9 billion. And although total construction spending declined 0.7% to a seasonally-adjusted $1.3 trillion from May to June, that figure was actually 0.1% above June 2019 levels. 

Here’s our summary of trends that will likely affect the construction industry for the remainder of 2020 and into 2021.

Read more »

Are you hoping that the home you live in now will be your forever home? If so, you’re not alone. 

Two-thirds of U.S. adults say they would prefer to age in place instead of moving to a retirement home, according to one survey. However, only one-third believe they will be able to do so. About a quarter of respondents said they just don’t think their home is suitable for an elderly person to live in. 

This is where an aging-in-place remodel can help. By following the principles of universal design, you can create a safe, comfortable and stylish home for all ages and abilities.

Here are some ideas to consider when upgrading your home to accommodate your needs as you age. 

Read more »

The kitchen is about so much more than cooking.

It’s also an important social space where families share memories that will last a lifetime. 

This year’s most popular kitchen designs emphasize an inviting, lived-in look. People are craving a comforting atmosphere for enjoying good food and conversation with loved ones, away from the stress of daily life. 

For many, that means livening up a previously all-white kitchen with clever touches of color. Soft blue cabinets or mint green appliances inject an uplifting, positive energy. A hint of yellow combined with natural woods add brightness and warmth. 

Here are a few more great ideas for updating your kitchen.

Read more »

It’s a decision every homeowner will face at some point — whether to complete a project yourself or hire a contractor.

The Home Improvement Research Institute estimates that ⅔ of home improvement projects last year were completed on a do-it-yourself basis. The most common DIY projects include interior painting and landscaping.

Lots of people think it’s more frugal to do the work yourself. However, this isn’t always the case. Let’s go over some considerations for deciding when to tackle a job yourself, and when to leave it to an expert.

Read more »

Whether you’re building a new home or updating an existing one, you have lots of options when it comes to siding. 

Choosing a quality material impacts many things including energy efficiency, curb appeal and, ultimately, the value of your property. Some criteria to consider are ease of installation, durability and appearance. 

But which one is best for your project? To help you decide, we’ve put together a summary of several common exterior siding materials.

Read more »

Looking for a new home can be an exciting time, but also a stressful one.

That’s because there are so many decisions to make. Besides location, there are the must-haves you need, the nice-to-haves you want, and of course, the price. 

You must also determine whether building a new home or purchasing an existing one makes the most sense. While there is no single right answer for everyone, there are potential advantages and drawbacks for each of these options.

Here are some of the most important considerations to help you decide.

Read more »

In our last blog post, we highlighted some of the big-picture developments that are shaping construction and remodeling at the dawn of a new decade.

This time, we take a closer look at the design trends influencing both residential and commercial projects. 

Home improvement and repair spending is expected to exceed $330 billion in 2020. That’s a 1.5% increase, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University. Trends driving demand include low mortgage rates, young adults entering their peak buying years and older folks looking to downsize or age in place.

As for commercial remodeling, the global market is projected to reach $2 trillion in value by 2024. Key objectives for building renovations include reducing fixed costs, increasing energy efficiency and creating an appealing work environment for attracting — and retaining — a qualified workforce.

Read more »

As the new decade begins, many trends that have shaped the construction industry in recent years continue to be relevant in 2020.

In this two-part blog series, Mid-City Lumber highlights the opportunities and challenges awaiting contractors in the year ahead. 

This month’s article summarizes the ongoing influence of digital technologies, modular building and labor shortfalls. 

Read more »

Continued growth in the construction industry translates into an ongoing need for quality power tools to satisfy increasingly stringent client demands. Read more »

Home remodeling is big business.

The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard tells us that U.S. spending on home improvements reached a record of $425 billion in 2017, according to the most recent data.

On top of that, the typical renovating homeowner shelled out $15,000 on home improvements in 2018. Motivations for renovating include a desire to boost home value, aging in place or accommodating the needs of a growing family.

But not all projects are created equal. While many home improvements do increase home value, many have no impact at all and some even backfire.

It’s essential that contractors take the time to educate clients on the best improvements to meet their needs, achieve the best return on investment and stay within budget.

Here are 7 common myths that lead many consumers astray when it comes to remodeling.  Read more »

Design fads may come and go, but the open floor plan is still going strong.

After almost three decades, homebuyers continue seeking out large, communal spaces that combine multiple activities for greater convenience. 

Open floor plans remain a must-have feature for new builds and for remodeling older homes.  Read more »

With more Americans working at home, a convenient home office is a must-have consideration for new builds as well as renovations.

Some 3.7 million employees already work from home, and one Stanford University researcher found many benefits including greater productivity and fewer distractions.

Whether you’re including a home office with a new construction or adding onto an existing structure, here are some helpful hints for a successful project. Read more »

Construction spending fell to $1.287 billion in June, down 1.3% from May. Meanwhile, the Commerce Department reported a 4% decrease in new housing starts in July. 

Are these numbers a sign of trouble ahead, or just a momentary pause in an otherwise robust construction market? An assessment of current trends reveals both promising opportunities as well as continuing risks for contractors.

• A recent survey found that most contractors expect the dollar volume of projects they complete in 2019 to be about the same as in 2018. Continued economic strength, the emergence of a new generation of home buyers and historically low mortgage rates are among the trends pointing to opportunities for growth. 
• However, contractors continue to deal with an ongoing labor shortage, fluctuating commodity prices and emerging concerns about how long the current economic recovery will last.

Read more »

Is shiplap in or out this year?

Some caution that the white-hot farmhouse craze, with its heavy reliance on shiplap, may be cooling off as homeowners look for fresher fads to latch onto. Others contend that farmhouse design isn’t going away — it’s just getting a little more refined. 

Keep reading for some of the advantages of shiplap, as well as ideas for incorporating it into your next new build or remodel.  Read more »

Is it better to remodel or move? Or perhaps it’s time to build a new house?

Contractors frequently hear questions like these. 

A Harris Poll found that 76% of U.S. homeowners plan to complete home improvements in 2019, an increase from 2018. Big-ticket residential remodeling activity increased 4.1% in the first quarter of 2019 from the same period a year ago.  Read more »

After long weekdays filled with traffic jams and tight deadlines, more and more people are seeking the comfort of a relaxing getaway, right outside their own back door.

A well-designed patio or deck is the perfect retreat for delving into a good book, entertaining family and friends, or enjoying a breathtaking sunset before turning in for the night. Homeowners also want a smoother transition from indoors to out, with patios and decks functioning as “outdoor rooms” that reflect the look and feel of the home’s interior. Read more »

Before you can build that dream home, you must first decide where to build it.

Buying a lot comes with a number of important matters that must be addressed. How do you know if you’re building in the right neighborhood? Is it convenient to work and good schools? Does the land have access to utilities? Are there any legal or environmental concerns?

That’s why it’s best to talk to an experienced contractor before buying land. A reputable general contractor will have the knowledge and relationships to help you select the best lot and navigate the purchase process with minimal headaches and without spending more than you have to.

Keep reading for a summary of the issues to ask about when purchasing a lot. Read more »

Mid-City Lumber is proud to announce a new product from James Hardie® Building Products, coming to stores this May!

The Aspyre Collection by James Hardie™ combines Artisan® siding with the Reveal Panel® System.

The newest flat wall profiles, Artisan Shiplap, Artisan V-Groove, Artisan Square Channel and Artisan Bevel Channel, integrate with Artisan Lap siding and the Reveal Panel System, offering a new level of design flexibility with the durability of James Hardie fiber cement.

For more information, check out the brochure – or speak to your Mid-City Lumber sales representative!

Contractors face increasing pressure to thrive in a world of stringent client demands, shifting economic trends and a dynamic regulatory landscape.

But the continued emergence of innovative digital tools lets you meet these and other challenges.

Let’s take a look at some of the high-tech solutions making their mark on the construction industry this year. Read more »

Early indicators point to 2019 as a year of great opportunities for new construction homes, first time homebuyers and for those who are ready for an upgrade.

Residents want homes with floor plans and interior designs that support their busy lifestyles, encourage positive interaction and promote a sense of well-being in today’s topsy-turvy society.

If you’re looking for new home design ideas or even looking for new house plans with home decor in mind, you’ve come to the right place.

Here are 10 home design trends to watch as the year continues to take shape. Read more »

Read more »

From stairs to custom cabinets and from multi-purpose crown molding to wainscoting, utilizing millwork and custom woodworking is an excellent way to add functionality and personality to almost any space.

The largest purchasers of millwork products include residential and commercial building contractors, wholesalers and retail outlets. Residential construction accounts for about 90% of overall millwork sales, with projects evenly split between new construction and remodels.

Let’s take a closer look at a few of the benefits of custom millwork for residential and commercial customers alike, as well as trends affecting the millwork industry, including competition and customer preferences. Read more »

Whether your construction firm is a new startup or has been around for decades, your marketing strategy must engage customers and create a positive experience for everyone who comes into contact with your business.

It’s also an ongoing effort that includes the whole organization, not a one-time event or a single person, department or agency.

Prospects are more savvy than ever, and effective marketing gives you the opportunity to learn about them so you can provide consistent value and keep them satisfied over the long term.

Let’s take a look at three important ingredients for an up-to-date marketing strategy that lets you stand out from the competition in a dynamic construction industry. Read more »

Let’s face it – everyone wants to cut costs these days.

It’s no wonder that energy efficiency continues to be a top priority for homeowners looking to remodel or build.

People want features that promote lower heating and cooling costs, smart water usage and a better mix of natural and artificial lighting. And a significant number of consumers are more than willing to take on higher, short-term project costs in return for smaller utility bills over the life of the property.

If your clients are looking to go green or just spend less on utilities, here are some of the energy efficient features that can benefit almost any home. Read more »

Many people are looking to build their next home rather than buy.

New housing starts for August 2018 were up 9.4% from a year ago, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

What architectural styles are people seeking out? Home design experts say buyers are looking for comfortable and practical over showy and ostentatious. Eco-friendly features are big with those looking to go green or save on utilities, while tech-friendly options are must-haves for contemporary and traditional homes alike.

Let’s take a look at the most popular house plans, along with some of the hottest building features, that homeowners are looking for. Read more »

What colors are attracting today’s homeowners for new builds and remodeling projects?

The choice of color plays a major role in meeting client expectations and guides the selection of countertop materials, fabrics and of course paint colors for walls, doors, window frames and more. Read more »

Andersen Corporation recently announced that they have signed an agreement to sell their Silver Line brand to Ply Gem. At this time, Mid-City Lumber does not anticipate any changes to the Silver Line product or service of this brand and will continue to provide all Silver Line products for our customers. If you have any questions, please contact your sales representative or any Mid-City Lumber associate.

It’s no secret that construction plays a vital role in the strength of our economy at both the state and national levels.

Construction contributes $11 billion to the Missouri economy and nearly $800 billion to the U.S. economy as a whole, according to the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC).

But what can construction industry trends from 2018 tell us about potential trends in early 2019? Let’s take a look at some of the factors that are currently influencing the near-term outlook for the construction industry and discuss how these factors might influence both Missouri contractors and contractors across the U.S. Read more »

High customer expectations, tight budgets and stringent deadlines mean your reputation and your profits are on the line with every renovation or construction project.

And from weather disasters to costly rework requests to subcontractor defaults and other construction delays, there are lots of things that can throw off your construction timeline and inject unwanted costs along the way.

That’s why going beyond the basics to get the little things right from start to finish is key to maintaining control of your new construction project while meeting the seemingly endless challenges facing today’s contractors. Choosing the right contractors or subcontractors, construction planning and proactive scheduling are more important than ever. Read more »

On Wednesday, June 6, the Columbia Police Department reported that Jason Pattillo has been arrested for stealing approximately $25,000 worth of lumber over the course of a month from Mid-City Lumber. This report is inaccurate.

The lumber stolen was not taken from the Mid-City Lumber store, located at 4709 Paris Road as reported, but in fact, was lumber being stored by a contractor who was renting storage space at a facility owned by Mid-City Lumber and located at a different address on Paris Road.

No lumber or any other materials have been stolen from Mid-City Lumber at their 4709 Paris location or at any of their other operating stores in Jefferson City, Boonville or Sedalia.

Early Sunday morning, our Boonville store was destroyed by a fire. Fortunately, no one was injured. We thank the Cooper County Fire Protection District, Boonville Fire Department and others for their hard work to put the fire out.

Clean up is beginning immediately and we will start construction to rebuild as soon as possible. In the meantime, we will continue to serve our Boonville customers through our Columbia store.

The Boonville phone lines are being redirected to Columbia, so you can still call the Boonville number to place orders. You can also call your sales person directly. We ask for your patience as we work through the cleanup and rebuilding process.

Your deck is your own little staycation spot. You come together for family fun, to entertain friends, to enjoy your morning coffee or to relax at the end of your day. A well-designed deck can hold many memories, so be sure to do your research before choosing the best decking material for your budget and lifestyle. Read more »

It is no secret that kitchen remodels make for higher home resale values, engaging spaces and happy chefs. But while kitchen renovations offer a larger return on investment than most other remodels, the costs can be overwhelming. Even small kitchen remodels can sneak over your budget limit if you aren’t careful. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to do a kitchen remodel on a budget without sacrificing style. Read more »

The overwhelming process of hiring a good contractor can be made easier with a little preparation. Knowledge is power and your best chance at a great result. Whether your project is a home renovation or a brand new build, knowing what you want, what you can spend and researching several contractors can help you find the best fit for your next project. Read more »

What a great turn out we had at the annual Good Friday Fish Fry held at our Boonville store! We fed about 250 or more local customers and their families and had a lot of fun. Thanks, too, to our own Mid-City cooks as they did what they always do – made a great meal for all! Hope to see you again next year.

Read more »

We enjoyed talking with everyone who came out to the 18th Annual HBA Home Show of Central Missouri!

We had a great time at our Contractor Lunch in Columbia last week. There was lots of good food and good company – thank you to everyone who attended!

James Hardie is excited to announce the launch of the Reveal^® Panel System. The customizable Reveal Panel System features high-design, high-performance components to distinguish your multi-family projects. 

This new product will be available n January. Contact us for more information.

We are sorry to say goodbye to one of our long-time associates, Charlie Waller, who is relocating to St. Louis. We wish him all the best in his new endeavors and thank him for his service as part of the Mid-City family.

Mid-City Lumber always offers the very best brands for your projects, large and small. We are also proud to offer unique products for homeowners who want something a little different. Check out this open corner door system available through Win-Dor.

Mid-City Lumber was proud to partner with Shaw Floors on a program designed to raise funds for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Please note, Mid-City Lumber will continue to be closed on Saturdays for the foreseeable future. Please visit us Monday – Friday 7 AM – 5 PM.

Boone County will now use these new guidelines in reference to exterior deck construction. Of course, if you have any questions, we are happy to be a resource.

The City of Columbia has issued new guidelines for “solar ready” buildings, as well as a new city building permit application. Forms are available here.

new-home-application-sept-2016

appendix-u-solar-ready-requirements-handout-sheet-1

More information can be found on the City of Columbia website.

Mid-City Lumber loves to help out our local Booster clubs. Here are some pictures from the tailgates we’ve hosted this year in Boonville, Jefferson City and Sedalia. Thanks to all who attended!

It was a great day! Thank you to everyone who could join us!

Thanks to those who came out to cheer on the Tigers! We had a great time with you!

Significant changes in the 2015 Codes and new enforcement policies will begin October 1, 2016. Columbia Building & Site Development held a meeting on August 23 to share important information about these changes. Please visit their website for more information.

A big thank you to everyone who attended the Mid-City Lumber Product Showcase! We always have a lot of fun with this event, and we hope you did, too! Let us know if you have any follow up questions about the products and options you saw. We’re here to help make your project a success!

It’s always a WIN when Mid-City hosts friends at our tailgate! Thanks to everyone who braved the rain to join us. We didn’t bust out the grills but still had some great food and great company.

Mid-City Lumber was proud to support the Jefferson City Jays Booster Club when the Jays took on Rockhurst. It was not a win for the Jays, but it was definitely a win for the Boosters as we helped them serve up lots of delicious hamburgers, hot dogs and brats. We always have a great time supporting our community schools!

We all wish the final score would have been better, but if you joined us for the Mid-City tailgate, at least you can say that part of the day was worth celebrating!

Thanks to everyone who came out – we had a huge crowd! So many of our customers and their families were with us and that’s what it’s all about. We had a great time with all of you and hope you had a great time, too!

Thanks to everyone who came out to the season’s first Mid-City Lumber Tiger Tailgate! We had a great time. M-I-Z!

Thank you to all who came out and supported the Boonville Pirates!

Read more »

Mid-City Lumber would like to thank all those who attended our 2015 Product Showcase! We had a really good time with all of our vendors and customers. It was great to see so many home owners and visit with them about their remodeling projects, and we always enjoy the chance to share with our contractors all the best and latest products. If you left hungry, it wasn’t our fault! As always, our Mid-City cooks prepared something delicious for all. We hope you had a great time and will join us again next year! Read more »