RealAmericanHardwood.pro Launches

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) in partnership with the Real American Hardwood Coalition (RAHC), is excited to announce the launch of a new website: RealAmericanHardwood.Pro.

In 2023, NHLA was awarded a noncompetitive $500,000 matching grant from the U.S. Forest Services with the objective to grow and stabilize the hardwood lumber market and industry.

Goals to accomplish this objective were outlined as 1) create online content on hardwood information for architects, specifiers, designers, structural engineers, and other hardwood users and 2) distribute content to architects, specifiers, designers, structural engineers, and other hardwood users in person and online.

Dallin Brooks, Executive Director of NHLA, emphasized the importance of this initiative in supporting the industry. “The launch of RealAmericanHardwood.pro marks a significant milestone in our mission to grow and stabilize the hardwood lumber market and industry. There are many different factors that are important to consider when designing a space for people to gather. This new platform will serve as a valuable resource for architects, specifiers, designers, structural engineers, and other hardwood users, providing them with comprehensive information and tools to make informed decisions about using American hardwoods. This website will help designers and architects have the information they need to create a positive impact on both people within design spaces and on the environment outside. We are excited about the opportunities this website will create for expanding the reach and impact of our industry, thanks to the support of the U.S. Forest Services grant.”

Linda Jovanovich, chair of the Real American Hardwood Coalition, also highlighted the strategic role of the new website. “As the RAHC begins strategically working with and educating architects, designers, specifiers and students, RealAmericanHardwood.pro is a valuable resource to serve and educate those communities. I am looking forward to adding it to our marketing toolbox and putting it to work for our industry.”

Key features of the website include:
• Why Hardwood: In the “Why Hardwood” section, visitors will discover the numerous benefits of choosing hardwood. They will learn that hardwood is environmentally friendly due to its carbonnegative properties and appreciate its durability and long-term investment value. The section will highlight the natural beauty and timeless appeal of hardwood, as well as its lifetime usability. Additionally, visitors will find that hardwood is a healthy choice, free from harmful chemicals and allergens. Lastly, this section will also compare hardwood with alternative products, clearly demonstrating its superiority in terms of sustainability, longevity, and overall value.
• Featured Projects: This section showcases the endless possibilities of creating functional and beautiful designs with Real American Hardwood®. Highlighting a diverse range of commercial buildings, furniture, and unique designs, these featured projects are meant to inspire and motivate others to build with hardwood. Visitors can also submit their own projects for a chance to be featured on the site, fostering a community of creativity and innovation.
• Real American Hardwood Species Guide: Visitors can delve into the detailed physical properties and growth patterns of 14 commonly used U.S. hardwood species. The guide also includes information on common applications and alternative species, offering a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in American hardwood.
• Hardwood Grading Guide: This section offers a comprehensive understanding of Hardwood Lumber Grading through the NHLA Rules Book and video illustrations. Architects, designers, and specifiers will find valuable insights to help them select the appropriate hardwood grade for their projects, ensuring the desired quality, functionality, and aesthetic outcome. This guide empowers professionals to make informed decisions tailored to their specific needs and goals.

About the National Hardwood Lumber Association: The world’s largest and oldest hardwood industry association, NHLA represents more than 700 companies that produce, use, and sell North American hardwood lumber, or provide equipment, supplies or services to the hardwood industry. It was founded in 1898 to establish a uniform system of grading rules for the measurement and inspection of hardwood lumber. Since 1979, its headquarters have been in Memphis. To learn more about NHLA, please visit www.nhla.com.

About the Real American Hardwood Coalition: Representing companies from every sector of the industry and every hardwood producing state in the country, the RAHC seeks to inspire and educate consumers and professionals on the uses and benefits of real American hardwood products.