Business Details
Your Trusted Source for Building Supplies in Central Virginia
Better Living has been a cornerstone of Central Virginia's construction and home improvement industry since 1893. Originally established as Charlottesville Lumber, our family-owned business has evolved through five generations while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality and customer service. We specialize in providing building materials, custom cabinetry, and millwork solutions to both residential and commercial clients. Our state-of-the-art facilities include a LEED-certified custom mill shop and three strategically located supply centers. With a fleet of recognizable yellow and green delivery trucks, we serve contractors and homeowners across Central Virginia.Our expertise spans from traditional lumber supply to modern energy-efficient building solutions like Therma-Tru doors. Through decades of industry changes, we've preserved our core values of reliability, community engagement, and construction excellence. Our team combines generational knowledge with cutting-edge technology to deliver tailored solutions for every project. From small DIY endeavors to large-scale commercial developments, we provide comprehensive support through our experienced staff and extensive product offerings. This enduring legacy of service excellence continues to drive our business forward in an ever-evolving construction landscape.
Services
Building Supply
Custom Cabinetry
Custom Millwork
Deck Estimator
LEED Certified Products
Highlights and features
- We offer competitive pricing backed by 130+ years of industry experience
- Our LEED-certified facility ensures environmentally responsible building solutions
- Family-owned business with five generations of construction expertise
- Custom cabinetry and millwork tailored to specific project requirements
- Largest delivery system in Central Virginia with recognizable service reliability
Associations and certifications
- LEED
Services
Building Supply
We provide comprehensive building material solutions for residential and commercial projects. Our inventory includes lumber, doors, windows, and specialty products like Therma-Tru doors. With three strategically located facilities and a dedicated delivery system, we ensure timely access to quality materials for contractors and homeowners across Central Virginia.
Custom Cabinetry
Our custom cabinetry service offers tailored storage solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, and other living spaces. Using premium materials and modern design techniques, we create functional and aesthetically pleasing cabinetry that meets specific project requirements. The service includes professional design consultation and precise manufacturing in our LEED-certified facility.
Custom Millwork
We specialize in custom millwork solutions including moldings, trim, and architectural wood elements. Our skilled craftsmen produce high-quality interior woodwork that enhances building aesthetics. The service supports both residential renovations and commercial construction projects with custom-finished products that meet exact specifications.
Deck Estimator
Our deck estimator service helps customers plan and budget for outdoor living spaces. We provide accurate material calculations and cost estimates for deck construction projects. This service includes guidance on material selection and design considerations to ensure durable, code-compliant outdoor structures that enhance property value.
LEED Certified Products
We offer LEED-certified building products that meet rigorous environmental standards. Our sustainable material options help reduce construction's ecological footprint while maintaining performance quality. This service supports eco-conscious building practices through access to energy-efficient products and environmentally responsible construction solutions for modern developments.
People
L.W. Graves
Founder
Established Charlottesville Lumber in 1893, laying the foundation for what would become Better Living. His vision for quality service and community focus shaped the company's enduring values.
Richard L. Nunley
Chairman of the Board
Joined the family business in 1958 after a law career. Served as President from 1960-1997, overseeing significant expansion including the 1969 name change to Better Living, Inc.
John G. Nunley
President
Fourth-generation leader who joined in 1986 after earning an MBA from Vanderbilt. Has served as President since 1997, guiding the company through modernization and facility expansions.
Questions
What services does Better Living Building Supply offer?
We provide building materials, custom cabinetry, millwork, and deck construction solutions. Our LEED-certified products support sustainable building practices for residential and commercial projects.
How long has Better Living been in business?
Since 1893, originally as Charlottesville Lumber. We've served Central Virginia for over 130 years with five generations of family ownership.
Do you offer custom woodworking solutions?
Yes, our custom millwork service creates tailored interior wood elements including moldings, trim, and architectural features in our LEED-certified facility.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Central Virginia, including Charlottesville and Troy, with three strategically located supply centers and delivery throughout the region.
