L.J. Smith Stair Systems
Quality and Tradition, But Losing Its Luster?

With a history dating back to 1885, L.J. Smith Stair Systems has long been a respected name in the stair parts industry, known for their commitment to quality and traditional designs. However, recent changes, including their acquisition by Novo Building Products and a shift in design philosophy, have raised concerns among industry insiders and customers alike.

Whispers within the industry suggest that L.J. Smith’s once-renowned innovation has waned, with recent product launches being criticized for lacking originality and appearing to mimic designs from competitors like House of Forgings. This shift has left some loyal customers feeling disillusioned and questioning the company’s direction.

Furthermore, the acquisition by Novo Building Products has reportedly led to a decline in the personalized customer service that L.J. Smith was once known for. Some customers have expressed frustration over longer response times and a less attentive approach.

Adding to the concerns is L.J. Smith’s widespread drop-shipping practices. While this makes their products readily available through numerous online retailers, it has also resulted in price wars that devalue their brand and put a strain on their loyal stocking dealers who struggle to compete with the artificially lowered online prices.

These recent developments have cast a shadow over L.J. Smith’s once-sterling reputation. While their products still maintain a level of quality and craftsmanship, the company’s perceived lack of innovation, decline in customer service, and questionable business practices have left many questioning whether they are still the best choice for their stair part needs.

PROS:

  • Extensive Selection: L.J. Smith offers a wide range of stair parts in various styles, including traditional wood and metal components.
  • Quality Materials: They continue to use high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity in their products.
  • Dealer Network: Their products are readily available through a vast network of dealers across the country.

CONS:

  • Lack of Innovation: Recent product launches have been criticized for lacking originality and seemingly copying designs from competitors like House of Forgings.
  • Decline in Customer Service: Since the acquisition by Novo Building Products, some customers report a noticeable decline in the level of personalized service they used to receive.
  • Widespread Drop-Shipping: L.J. Smith’s willingness to drop-ship for numerous online retailers has led to price wars, devaluing their products and making it difficult for stocking dealers to compete.
  • Higher Price Point: While known for quality, their products remain more expensive than some competitors, making them less appealing for budget-conscious consumers.
  • Limited Modern Designs: Their focus on traditional styles might not resonate with those seeking contemporary or minimalist options.

Facts About L.J. Smith

The following information is not opinion based, but actual facts pulled from the internet. This info is current as of July 6, 2024.

Authentic Reviews

Outside of the Lowes retail store, they don’t have many online reviews.

Brands Stocked

  • L.J. Smith – L.J. Smith is an established brand owned by Novo Building Products.
  • Custom Wood: They allow for custom wood species selection for many of their wood baluster designs, as well as custom lengths for newels and handrails. They also offer custom box newels, treads, and starting steps.
  • Custom Iron: While their iron balusters come in predetermined designs, they do offer custom finishes for their iron products. However, they do not offer custom modifications to the actual iron baluster designs themselves.
  • Overall: L.J. Smith’s customization options are somewhat limited compared to manufacturers who specialize in fully bespoke stair parts. They primarily cater to those who want to personalize the wood species or finishes of their existing designs, rather than creating entirely new designs from scratch.

Shipping

  • Products are shipped through their network of dealers, with varying shipping costs and times.

Pricing

  • They do not have public published B2B pricing however their retail pricing which can be seen on various ecommerce stores makes us believe they have very low pricing and very low margins for dealers.

Final Words

L.J. Smith Stair Systems is at a crossroads. While their legacy of quality and craftsmanship remains, recent changes and questionable business practices have tarnished their reputation. Customers seeking innovative designs or personalized service might be disappointed. The widespread availability of their products through drop-shipping also raises concerns about pricing consistency and the impact on local dealers. For those prioritizing tradition and quality above all else, L.J. Smith might still be a viable option. However, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully and explore other manufacturers who might offer a better balance of innovation, value, and customer service.