Caution, expense of the project and poor credit history are some of the stumbling blocks homeowners are facing when attempting to secure financing for home remodeling projects, according to a new survey by the National Association of Remodeling Industry.

How hard is it for homeowners to get financing for the remodeling project they want to undertake?

To bolster its new torrefied wood pellets venture, Vencor International tapped industry expert, James Gaspard as the company’s new CEO to lead the new business.

The Woodworking Machinery Industry Association and Pittsburg State University are offering a five-day, wood processing instructional course for sales professionals, managers and executives.

Vencor International is now in the business of providing torrefied wood pellets to customers around the world.

The L.E. Smith Company, manufacturer of solid surfaces and veneer countertops for cabinetry and millwork, has hired Mari Ivan as Director of Technology and Service.

An improving housing market helped drive net earnings of $585 million for the third quarter for Lowe’s Companies, Inc. The earnings were a 17.3 percent increase over the same time last year.

Melamine imports from China and Trinidad were the target of antidumping and countervailing duty petitions filed by Cornerstone Chemical Co. The chemical is a key ingredient in laminated panel for closets and cabinetry.

Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) reported net earnings of $585 million for the quarter ended Oct. 31, 2014, a 17.3 percent increase over the same period a year ago.

In this Species Spotlight, Timber Products Company veneer expert Eric Cullen shares his insight on White Oak and the differences between true rift and false rift.