Blandy Hardwoods, a multi-generational leader in premium hardwood manufacturing, and Ellis-Reid Millwork & Specialties today announced a new joint venture to bring Emberline Wood^™, a next-generation ThermalWood product line, to the architectural and builder community in early 2026.

For more than four decades, Blandy Hardwoods has set the standard for precision wood manufacturing, from sourcing premium lumber across the Southeast to controlling every step of production, including stacking, kiln-drying, and specialty finishing. Their craftsmanship and deep material knowledge have made them a preferred supplier for high-end flooring, ceilings, cabinetry, molding, and even museum-grade applications.

This joint venture formalizes a longstanding relationship between the two companies and positions Blandy Hardwoods as the manufacturing force and technical engine behind Emberline Wood^™. Their team of highly skilled craftsmen and multi-generational heritage in the hardwood industry will drive the production of the thermally modified wood that anchors the product offering.

“Blandy Hardwoods has been a benchmark for craftsmanship in our industry,” said Nick Lischerong, Ellis-Reid. “Their depth of experience and production excellence give this new line its foundation. We’re excited to help carry that legacy into a product architects and builders can count on for years to come.”

Blandy Hardwoods is the only thermal wood producer in North Carolina that sources 100% locally harvested lumber. Blandy is also one of the only thermal modification companies in North America that operates conventional kilns, high-speed moulders, and full prefinish line capabilities, all under one roof. This vertical integration allows Blandy to control quality at every stage and deliver a superior, consistent product.

The joint venture company will operate as a fully integrated entity, combining Blandy’s manufacturing capabilities with Ellis-Reid’s field expertise to bring Emberline Wood™ to market with consistency and scale. As part of this structure, Ellis-Reid will serve as the exclusive dealer and in-field execution partner, applying its architectural relationships, builder network, and installation expertise to shape product adoption and performance. This joint venture is purpose-built to deliver a high-performance, design-forward alternative to traditional exterior cladding, one that reflects the unified strengths of both partners and the long-term stability of this new company.

“This is a natural evolution of our work with Ellis-Reid,” said Lee Frick, Owner, Blandy Hardwoods. “Their millwork expertise and understanding of how materials perform in the field make them an ideal partner. Together, we’re introducing Emberline Wood™, a ThermalWood line that reflects true craftsmanship and meets the demands of today’s architectural market.”

“Our goal is simple,” added Tyler Privette, Founder of Ellis-Reid. “Pair Blandy’s unmatched manufacturing pedigree with our field expertise to give clients a material they can trust, for aesthetics, performance, and longevity.”

Emberline Wood™ underscores rising demand for high-performance exterior materials and delivers greater consistency, dimensional stability, and design flexibility, backed by two companies committed to quality and craftsmanship.

The full product specifications will be unveiled in the coming months.