Family Values and Friendly Advice at Route 18 Lumber

In 1965 John Dobrzynski Sr. and his brother, Mark, opened a little store on a big piece of property along Route 18 and began selling lumber and giving advice to contractors, residents and anyone else who needed it.

Today, is still going strong, and so is John Sr.’s his legacy.

“What sets us apart is that we sell good, quality stuff, and our strong relationship with our customers,” said Jack Dobrzynski, John Sr.’s grandson.

Jack started with Route 18 Lumber in 1987 after finishing up college at Michigan State. His route to the lumber yard was much like his father’s, John Jr., who still works there. John Jr. came aboard following a successful career and after his father asked him or help.

“I got here in 1968 after college. I was married and working at Squibb making radioactive drugs. (John Sr.) called an needed help, so I came,” said John Jr.

Joined by his other son, Mark, the trio (John Jr., Jack and Mark) have helped build and sustain one of East Brunswick’s best known family run businesses in town by carrying lumber, hardware, paint, deck supplies, tools Benjamin Moore paint and, more

“If we don’t have it here, we’ll tell you where you can go to get it,” said John Jr.

One advantage to spending much of his career working at Route 18 Lumber is that John has gotten to see and learn buildiing trends. When he started, much of his customer base was residents looking for weekend projects. Maybe they wanted to finish the basement, or something else. A lot of that work now is being done by contractors.

Having a Dobrzynski in charge isn't the only thing that hasn't changed at Route 18. Since it's began, Route 18 Lumber has been a place customers can get advice. At any given time, there are four people at the front desk, answering phones and meeting customers, with 25 or more years of experience. From contractors to residents, they’ll do what they can to help you with your project and how to install and use the products they sell.

“They’re pretty knowledgeable because of their experience and rapport. If we hear you have problems we’ll work to solve it. We’re service oriented and we do that well,” said Jack.

“We know what sells and we know what doesn’t, and we know how to talk about the products. You can ask the crazies question, and we can answer they,” said John.

Route 18 Lumber is located at 652 Route 18, East Brunswick, N.J. 08816. Call them 732-257-6004 or email them at info@18lumber.com. You also can visit them on the web at www.18lumber.com.