May 2025 officially marks 70 years of business for Hoover Treated Wood Products.
As we celebrate our 70th anniversary, we reflect on the values that have guided us from our founding in Dearing, Georgia, to our position as a nationwide leader in fire-retardant-treated wood (FRTW). Our journey has been marked by growth, innovation and a commitment to safety. While much has changed since 1955, our mission remains the same: delivering peace of mind to our customers and the communities they serve.
As we celebrate this milestone, we’re looking back at the moments that shaped who we are today. This timeline tells the story of Hoover’s growth, from a single plant in Georgia to a national leader in fire-retardant wood products, driven by people, partnerships and a shared purpose.
We’ve built a legacy of trust, and the best is yet to come.
1955:
Founding and Early Partnership
Jack Smith founds Dixie Wood Preserving Co. in Dearing, Georgia, with a mission to deliver safer, high-quality wood products. The name “Hoover,” lended from Hoover Ball Bearing, symbolizes strength and durability, values that Hoover carries forward in the wood treatment industry.
1960s: Expansion Begins
Hoover opens its Pine Bluff Arkansas and Thomson Georgia plants, marking the start of its nationwide growth and commitment to serving customers across the country.
1962: UL Classification Mark Established
Hoover earns its UL classification mark, setting a high standard for safety that the company has proudly maintained for over six decades.
1970s: Hiring of Jimmy Herndon
Hoover welcomes one of its longest tenured employees to the Research and Development team. Their efforts were instrumental in advancing innovative solutions and maintaining Hoover’s leadership in the fire-retardant-treated wood industry.
1977: ExteriorFireX™ Treated Wood is Developed
Hoover introduces ExteriorFireX™, an innovative fire-retardant treatment for exterior wood products, furthering its reputation as an industry leader.
1984: Fire-Retardant Treatment Composition Patent Filed
Hoover secures its first patent for a fire-retardant treatment composition.
1992: PyroGuard™ Patent
Hoover’s flame-retardant composition and treatment method PyroGuard™ revolutionizes the FRTW industry, creating a benchmark for fire safety and reliability. Developed by James Herndon and Dennis Morgan, this patent expands Hoover’s expertise and product offerings.
2015: Introduction of V314
UL Design No. V314 became the first fire-resistance-rated bearing wall assembly tested and approved by UL using fire-retardant-treated wood. This breakthrough made it quicker and easier for building officials to approve plans for Type III construction.
2018: Acquisition by Graham Holdings
Graham Holdings acquires Hoover, bringing new resources and renewed momentum to invest in innovation, people and long-term growth.
2022: Sharper Identity
Hoover introduces a new brand identity to align its external presence with its modern and innovative products. The updated brand honors the organization’s legacy while making space for future growth and innovation. Hoover’s iconic dragon stays, but with a modern refresh.
2023: Opening of Fairfield, TX Plant
Hoover opens a new plant in Fairfield, Texas, boosting capacity and enhancing service to customers across the region.
2025: Opening of New Corporate Office
Hoover opens its new corporate office in Augusta, Georgia, designed to support its expanding team and foster collaboration for continued innovation and customer service.
