Why 67% of Deck Projects Fail Within 5 Years (The Material Selection Mistake Everyone Makes)

10 Ways Quality Lumber Prevents Project Failures in the St. Louis Metro

Contractors across Franklin, Jefferson, Gasconade, and St. Louis counties know one thing is true: cutting corners on lumber selection is the fastest way to ruin a profitable project. At Hall Brothers Lumber, we’ve supplied the St. Louis metropolitan area for decades — and we’ve seen firsthand how choosing the right lumber can mean the difference between a flawless build and an expensive callback.

1. Start with the Right Grade

Understanding grade stamps helps you avoid costly structural issues. Look for kiln-dried marks like KD-19 instead of surface green (S-GRN), which twists and shrinks after installation.

2. Inspect Before You Buy

Take time to sight, measure, and check lumber for bowing, twisting, or large knots. Straight lumber cuts faster, installs smoother, and reduces wasted hours on-site.

3. Order with a Quality Buffer

Always order 10–15% extra for quality assurance. Having reserve stock prevents project delays if pieces don’t meet your standards.

4. Build Supplier Relationships

The best contractors know their yard manager by name. At Hall Brothers Lumber, loyal customers often get first pick of premium shipments.

5. Hand-Select Your Lumber

Investing 30 extra minutes at the yard saves hours on-site. Group lumber by application — structural, subfloor, finish — and mark keepers before loading.

6. Test Moisture Content

High moisture leads to warping and cracked finishes. Aim for 15–19% in framing and 6–8% in finish work. At Hall Brothers, we help you identify and select the right stock for the job.

7. Store Lumber Properly

Elevate, cover, and acclimate materials before installation. A simple setup prevents warping and protects your investment.

8. Recheck Before Cutting

Lumber can shift in transit. Always double-check pieces before cuts — preventing rework and material loss.

9. Track Quality Metrics

Document moisture, waste percentages, and supplier performance. This data builds a system that protects your margins on every job.

10. Build Your Reputation on Quality

Clients don’t remember a $200 lumber upgrade — they remember a flawless project. Contractors who insist on quality earn trust, referrals, and premium rates.

Choose Hall Brothers Lumber for Your Next Project

Serving contractors and homeowners across Franklin, Jefferson, Gasconade, and St. Louis counties, Hall Brothers Lumber provides the quality lumber and customer service you need to keep projects on schedule and on budget. Contact us today to source the right materials for your next build.