True Roots

Chris Nied and Chris Kincaid were managing small family businesses in the Oahu lumber and retail industries in the early 1990s when they decided to embark on a venture of their own. After paddling in the Queen Liliuokalani canoe race on Hawaii Island, they brainstormed a business plan for what would become Pacific American Lumber.

Nied and Kincaid launched the enterprise with some key principles in mind. They aimed for their new company to one day be recognized as an industry leader providing quality building supplies throughout the state. Additionally, Nied and Kincaid wanted to become successful as independent entrepreneurs, and to ensure financial sustainability for their employees. Most importantly, says Nied, the business partners wanted to “enjoy the hell out of what we were doing.”

 Thirty-three years later, these goals stand as important pillars of Pacific American Lumber — with another added to the list. “Those four tenets are still the same, but what is important now is the tenure of our employees, which makes a huge difference,” states Nied.

The Pacific American Lumber showroom in Kalihi is open Monday through Friday and features displays and samples of quality hardwoods, engineered wood, composite options and more.

In addition to wood products, Pacific American Lumber also carries complementary project materials for decking, cladding, flooring and countertops, including Neolith sintered stone.

 When Hawaii Home + Remodeling visited Pacific American Lumber in August, Nied and architectural specifications representative Natascha Roblee took time out of their busy workday to talk story about the company’s evolution. Nied noted the value of long-standing staff like Roblee, who has grown with the business. “What makes us different now is Tascha and every one of the employees I’ve had here — the key is our people. We have over 150 combined years of industry knowledge and expertise in this building.”

 As staff and services have grown over the years at Pacific American Lumber, so too has its product inventory. Quality hardwood lumber continues to be the company’s signature offering, while new lines in decking and cladding, flooring and countertops provide a one-stop option for contractors and homeowners to pick up complementary project materials.

Hardwood flooring continues to be a popular choice for its durability, aesthetic appeal, and warmth.

The company is thrilled to bring cutting-edge products, such as Neolith sintered stone countertops, Accoya wood products, and Abodo Vulcan decking and cladding. Local Hawaiian mango and monkeypod wood are highly prized customer favorites that sell out as quickly as they arrive.

Pacific American Lumber also strives to curate products for projects of any price range. Expert staff are dedicated to customer service; with their guidance, you’ll find just what you’re looking for, Roblee says. “We want to utilize the knowledge and expertise we have to support our customers,” she notes, “whether they need guidance on HOA requirements for condo flooring or a recommendation on a general or specialty contractor.”

Roblee and the Pacific American Lumber team can help customers navigate its Kalihi showroom and expansive warehouse, where contractors and homeowners browse large-scale stone slabs, lumber and more. Staff members can provide their own personal recommendations, as well.

Longtime staff at Pacific American Lumber, from left to right: Brian Green (25 years), Natascha Roblee (14 years), Chris Nied (36 years), DJ Alfapada (25 years), Art Musso (industry pro for 30 years, at Pacific American Lumber for 2), Shelby Frank (10 years), Ellis Abram (15 years).

According to Roblee, nothing tops the longevity of natural wood, even among Pacific American Lumber’s high-quality lines of composite flooring options. Natural wood floors, she explains, can be refinished and maintained to last 35 to 40 years. Comparatively, carpet lasts between seven and 10 years, and vinyl or laminate flooring about 10 to 12 years.

 “Wood has been used since the construction of castles, so to have that longevity and know it’s a truly organic product is important,” she states.

 Pacific American Lumber continues to make an impact on the community. After the 2023 Maui fires that destroyed Lahaina, the company partnered with its global manufacturers to raise funds for rebuilding and relief efforts. Generous donations were made to Maui flooring contractors and staff, and gifts were donated to the students of Lahainaluna High School’s senior class. These community connections reflect the values, dedication and heart of the Pacific American Lumber ohana.

 “We care about who we are and what we’re doing,” shares Nied. “It’s truly about this team and what a wonderful job they do.”

Contact Pacific American Lumber for high-quality materials and expert guidance, at (808) 845-8700 or pacamlumber.com.

Editor’s Note: This article has been slightly modified from the original print version for optimal online reading. To view the full print story, pick up your copy of Hawaii Home + Remodeling at one of our partner locations.