Derr Flooring - About Our Company

Derr Flooring Co. opened its doors in 1912 as the Derr Lumber Co. under the ownership of John Hartenstine Derr.

In 1928, the company merged with other distributors to become the Lumber and Millwork Company of Philadelphia .

Because of economic conditions created by the depression, John Derr left the Lumber & Millwork Co. in 1931 and reestablished the Derr name with the opening of Derr-Gibbons Supply Co. in early 1932. Joined by his sons, Chester and Robert, and 2 other employees, the company began distributing wood flooring and other lumber products including doors, moldings, millwork and wood stair components.

John Derr remained involved in the company's success until his death in November 1970. His sons, Chester and Robert, grew the company until 1979, when it was decided that the business would be better served if it was split into two new companies. At the end of 1979 Derr Flooring Co. closed and two new companies emerged. Derr Lumber and Millwork Co. sold doors and millwork and the Chester Derr Flooring Co. sold wood flooring.

In 1980, the “new” Chester Derr Flooring Company operated from one location in Philadelphia and employed 25 people. After 5 years, the name was shortened to Derr Flooring Co. Today the company has grown significantly and now employs over 130 people and operates 6 warehouses in 4 states. Forty-three vehicles deliver material to customers in W. Virginia , Delaware , New Jersey , New York , Maryland , Connecticut , Pennsylvania and Virginia .

Even though we are one of the largest wood flooring distributors in the country, Derr Flooring Co. has diversified its product offerings over the last 30 years to now include commercial and residential sheet vinyl, commercial vinyl composition tile, wood treads, risers and other stair components, laminate flooring, rubber and vinyl flooring , rubber and vinyl cove base. In addition, the company stocks a complete line of installation products including adhesives, underlayment patch, sandpaper, floor finish and every type of installation tool necessary for professional installations.

Five members of the fourth generation of the Derr family are actively involved in various aspects of the business. They range in service from twelve to thirty years.

With quality products to distribute and a growing customer base, Derr Flooring Co. is poised to continue the company's growth through their 100th anniversary.

Quality Products & Service Since 1912