Herrman Lumber Shopping Guide: An Informed Visitor’s Perspective

Why You Should Visit

• Exceptional Service (in some cases): I’ve experienced firsthand the dedication of certain staff members. David, for instance, went above and beyond to source a specialty window with an unusual trim, even contacting the manufacturer directly. This level of personalized service is rare. Bobby Henson also received high praise for his expertise, patience, and problem-solving skills in assisting with lumber selection and ordering.
• High-Quality Lumber: The lumber itself is top-notch. I’ve used their sturdy planks for outdoor projects and finer wood for intricate details with excellent results. The selection is impressive.
• Efficient Loading and Delivery: Deliveries are usually prompt, and the lumber arrives in perfect condition. Even the loading process is typically quick and efficient. Staff are usually very nice and helpful during the offloading process.
• Cedar Lumber Selection: Their selection of cedar 4x4s and 2x4s is consistently reliable, perfect for fence building projects. The staff meticulously checks each board for quality, offering replacements for any defects.
• Knowledgeable Staff (in some departments): Some departments, like the lumber section, boast staff who are very professional, knowledgeable about their products, and helpful in assisting customers in selecting appropriate materials.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Inconsistent Customer Service: While some employees are exceptional, experiences vary greatly. One instance involved a significant delay in responses and a lack of follow-up, leading to frustration. In another case, a contractor reported being dismissed due to the size of their business. There is a significant disconnect in service depending on which employee you work with.
• Order Fulfillment Issues: There have been reports of order mix-ups, incorrect delivery dates, and damage to delivered items (cabinets). One customer received a door months late and had issues with order tracking. The delivery of kitchen cabinets included breakage and missing pieces, causing further delays and added costs.
• Limited Product Availability: Basic tools, such as clamps, aren’t stocked, suggesting limited additional supplies might be needed from a different supplier. A significant discrepancy was also noted in their kitchen cabinet options vs. other suppliers.
• Pricing Concerns: While described as “affordable” in one review, other comments suggest lumber pricing aligns with industry standards, which are currently high.
• Negative Experiences with Specific Employees: There are reports of unprofessional and even verbally abusive behavior from some staff members.
• Lien Waiver Difficulties: The process of obtaining lien waivers appears to be challenging and problematic.
• Driving Safety Concerns: A serious incident involving a company driver who cut off traffic and caused damage to another vehicle has been reported.
• Kitchen Cabinet Department Concerns: Cabinets are described as “pressed sawdust” covered in veneer and paint. Significant issues were reported with delivery, damage, and the accuracy of the installation. Even with the help of an outstanding cabinet specialist, Stacy, significant issues still arose.