BY MATT LINDSEY

DEKALB JUNCTION – Junction Building Supply is looking to expand on the success of the former Carvel Hardware store with all hardware necessities, an expanding line of lumber and building materials, special order custom kitchen and more.

Clark Porter recently opened his business at 4420 U.S. Highway 11 and says his plans include “significant growth” including expanding into basic building material, roofing and landscaping products. There are also plans to better utilize the high traffic large lot by selling more products outside.

“We want to continue to expand our craft and woodwork type lines by brining in additional Amish furniture and sheds, birdhouses and other locally made arts and crafts,” said Porter.

The store will also offer a full line of Milwaukee tools, Cabot Stain, Valspar Paint, screen and glass repair and spray foam insulation installation.

Although currently open, the store will hold a grand opening in May with special events on May 16 and 17.

Store traffic has been slow but is improving day to day as they weather gets better, he says.

Porter says has been slowly improving the building and says the inside has modern style shelving but maintains a hometown hardware store feel.

“The previous business was successful for many decades, the previous owner was retiring,” Porter said when asked why he was interested in owning a hardware store. “I also own a spray foam insulation business, a property maintenance company and am partners in Northern Tier Contracting. A hardware store symbiotically fits into these other ventures.”

While some things will change, Porter says the plaques and trophies business will continue to operate out of the same building.

Porter was born and raised in Gouverneur where he serves on the Gouverneur Board of Education. He graduated from SUNY Potsdam and did post-grad work at St. Lawrence University.

Porter purchased the business from Lee Carvel, who said he gave up the hardware business after 25 years because “at 62 years old, you’re going to slow down.” Carvel had bought the business, C.J. Bush Hardware, in 1988. Carvel said Bush built the 240-foot long building about 25 years before that.

The store will be staffed by three experienced full-time employees and family and friends.

“We will continue to offer that small town feel with quality service and competitive prices,” Porter said.

Hours of operations are Monday through Friday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

To contact the store, call 347-3465.