Construction

 
 
 
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    Science Daily: Construction

  • NIST releases final report on Cowboys facility collapse

    25 Jan 2010 | 9:00 pm
    NIST has released its final report on the May 2, 2009, collapse during a severe thunderstorm of the fabric-covered, steel frame practice facility owned by the National Football League's Dallas Cowboys.

  • Heat-resistant adhesive used in construction instead of bolts

    19 Jan 2010 | 11:00 am
    The “Parasols” in Seville feature components that are designed to be glued instead of bolted together. To prevent the adhesive from melting, it needs to withstand temperatures of up to 60 degrees Celsius.

  • Haiti earthquake: Converting shipping containers into emergency housing

    17 Jan 2010 | 11:00 am
    Resources to solve the housing crisis in Haiti may already be on hand. Some researchers have been experimenting with ways to convert shipping containers into emergency housing in the hurricane-prone Caribbean, where a surplus of the sturdy boxes often sits in port yards.

  • Industry corruption, shoddy construction likely contributed to Haiti quake devastation

    14 Jan 2010 | 2:00 pm
    The death toll in the massive 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti Jan. 12 is expected to continue to rise in the coming days, likely in large part because of corruption and resulting shoddy construction practices in the poor Caribbean nation, according to a seismologist.

  • Modern tests demonstrate soundness of old iron bridge

    20 Dec 2009 | 9:00 pm
    An unusual bowstring truss iron bridge that carried traffic across Roaring Run in Bedford County, Va. for almost 100 years is now a picturesque footbridge at the I-81 Ironto, Va. rest stop. Built in 1878, it is the oldest standing metal bridge in Virginia. In early December, a Virginia Tech undergraduate conducted a load-bearing analysis of the structure.
 
 
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    HighBeam Research: Construction

  • IMT Launches Certified Used Equipment Initiative.(Iowa Mold Tooling Company Inc.)(Brief article)

    Staff Garner, Iowa- Iowa Mold Tooling Co., Inc. (IMT) has established a certified used equipment initiative to meet customer demand for quality pre-owned equipment. IMT Certified Used Equipment is an extension of the IMT line of durable and reliable service vehicles that provides a premium level of Publication: Construction News

  • Twin Span Maintenance.

    By Lisa Doyle Regular Inspection And Maintenance Necessary To Keeping The Twin Spans Open Regular inspections and maintenance work is necessary to keep the I-10 Twin Spans up and running. The repaired bridges are in their second year of operation. Plans to reopen the bridge were fast-tracked after Publication: Construction News

  • Onset Computer Corporation Offers Webinar On Reducing Energy Demand Charges.

    Staff Bourne, Mass.- Onset Computer Corporation, the world leader in data logging solutions, announced a free, on-demand webinar entitled, "Reducing Energy Demand Charges: 3 Critical Steps." Aimed at energy engineers, facility managers, HVAC engineers, building owners, and others, the webinar Publication: Construction News

  • NRMCA Publishes Reports on Aggregate Grading Studies.

    Staff After a considerable amount of research, the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association has completed two detailed reports on aggregate grading: Effect of Continuous (Well-Graded) Combined Aggregate Grading on Concrete Performance Phase A: Aggregate Voids Content (Packing Density) and Phase B: Publication: Construction News

  • People.

    Staff The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) has named L. Michael Shydlowski and Robert Turner honorary directors of the association's board of directors in recognition of their years of distinguished service, commitment and involvement. Saul Solomon has been appointed chairman, CEO Publication: Construction News
 
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    The General Contractor

  • Topeka Roofer – HomeStyle Exteriors

    HomeStyle Exteriors, a Topeka roofer shall install roofing in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, I.C.B.O. specifications, and local building codes, with HomeStyle Exteriors employees only. HomeStyle Exteriors shall install color matched accessories, i.e., drip edge, starter strip, individual end caps, ridge caps, hip caps, valley flashing, chimney flashing, sidewall flashing, etc. as necessary to satisfactorily complete the [...]

  • Arlington Painting Company – Fresh Coat

    Whether your project requires painting a single home or an entire sub-division, Fresh Coat’s Arlington painting company has the experience to complete the job with incredible professionalism. Their Arlington painters never leave their clients with a mess to clean up when they have finished painting. Their Arlington painters make certain the area is left in [...]

  • Fort Worth Plumbing Company

    At First Call Plumbing, their Fort Worth plumbers welcome the opportunity to service your Fort Worth home or business and invite you to contact their plumbers to see how they can help with all your Fort Worth plumbing needs. Their plumbing services include emergency plumbing repairs, sewer lines, leak detection, commercial plumbing, and water heaters. If [...]

  • Littleton Roofing Contractor

    Stockton Roofing, a professional Littleton roofing contractor specializes in all types of roofing installations, as well as re-roofing, maintenance, and repair of existing roof systems. Their Littleton roofers understand that proper installation requires the use of skilled personnel who use the appropriate tools. Stockton Roofing’s expert staff of Fort Collins roofing contractors has the capability to [...]

  • Oakdale Roofing Contractor

    MFJ Construction, a professional Oakdale roofing and remodeling contractor has been a family owned and operated company since 1994. Their professional roofers do everything in house and with every project they have, the owner is on every job. Because every project is taken with great importance to ensure that the job is well done. Besides providing [...]
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    Floor Covering Installer Magazine: Breaking News

  • Coverings announces Vegas debut with 2011 show

    Organizers of Coverings have announced that the venue for its 2011 tile and stone exhibition is now officially Las Vegas. The expo will take place March 14-17, 2011, at the Sands Convention Center. 

  • Surfaces installation slideshow

    Installation issues were highlighted in a series of presentations at Surfaces 2010, which was held Feb. 1-4 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas.

  • Rugo to lead MIA as president

    Brett S. Rugo, founder and president of Rugo Stone, LLC of Lorton, VA, and grandson of an Italian stone carver, has been chosen as the new president of the Marble Institute of America (MIA).

  • Coverings 2010 organizers unveil educational lineup

    Organizers of Coverings 2010 are offering tile and stone contractors and installers more than 40 educational sessions during the show (April 27-30, in Orlando, FL). Topics will range from how to boost profits in a challenging economy to the latest innovations in installation methods and materials.

  • 2009 Sakrete Sack Program winner announced

    Julius Peppers, line backer for the Carolina Panthers, has been named the winner of the 2009 Sakrete Sack Program, credited with 27 quarterback sacks during the 2009 NFL regular season.
 
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    ThomasNet Industrial: Paints

  • Oil Resistant Paper Coating has no ozone depleting ingredients.

    9 Feb 2010 | 5:34 am
    Formulated from FDA approved ingredients for direct food contact, high OGR (oil and grease resistant) Aqualene® 5001 contains zero VOCs and is designed for paper converting and packaging industry. Water-based coating is repulpable, biodegradable, and environmentally safe. Product can be used for coating microwave popcorn bags, food wrappers, paper cups, ice cream boxes, or any food packaging product which requires high OGR properties. This story is related to the following:Green & CleanSearch for suppliers of: Paper Coatings | FDA Approved Coatings

  • Cap and Cover Spray Paint permits upside down application.

    8 Feb 2010 | 5:37 am
    Designed to mark and identify manhole covers and tank valves, UV resistant FAS-MARK(TM) Cap and Cover Paint enables upside down application with little or no overspray and can be applied directly to metal and other clean, dry surfaces. Paint is water-repellant, VOC compliant, and dries within 8-10 min. Available in 8 highly pigmented bright colors, in 15 oz aerosol cans, acrylic paint can also be used on island forms, structural steel, storage tanks, or equipment. This story is related to the following:Water Repellent Paints | Acrylic Paints | Spray Paints

  • Low-VOC Moisture-Cure Urethane Coating is chemical resistant.

    14 Jan 2010 | 5:32 am
    With low temperature cure at 20ºF and application in conditions up to 85% relative humidity, Cor-Cote HB Urethane provides 4 hr return to service and can be applied on concrete, as well as steel substrates. Reinforced with micaceous iron oxide, it delivers high abrasion resistance, film integrity, and edge retention qualities. Product is suited for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities, including clarifiers, settling tanks, wet wells, and grit chambers. This story is related to the following:Chemical Processing and Waste ManagementSearch for suppliers of: Low Volatile…

  • Refractory Coating handles high temperatures up to 3,200°F.

    12 Jan 2010 | 5:33 am
    Single part, water-dispersible, phosphate-bonded, and alumina-filled system, Pyro-Paint(TM) 634-ALP ceramic-based sealant is used to fill micro-porosity in dense refractory brick used in high temperature kilns and furnaces. Coating is inert, chemically resistant, inorganic, and does not outgas or decompose in corrosive applications to 3,200ºF. Available in pint, quart, gallon, and 5 gal drums, coating can be applied by brush, dip, or pneumatic sprayers, and cures fully in 1-2 hr at 700°F. This story is related to the following:Ceramic Coatings | High Temperature Coatings | Seal…

  • Acrylic Conformal Coating has eco-friendly formulation.

    12 Jan 2010 | 5:33 am
    Based on acrylic technology and bio-derived, ecologically-friendly solvent system, CONAP® CE-2290 does not require use of petroleum-based or reportable solvents and is free from hazardous air pollutants. Solvent portion is non-carcinogenic, biodegradable, and free of ozone-depleting solvents. RoHS-compliant and repairable, coating exhibits tack-free air drying time of 5 min @ 25°C and exhibits hydrolytic stability. It adheres to PCBs and electronic components. This story is related to the following:Chemical Processing and Waste ManagementConformal Coatings |
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    Walls & Ceilings: Industry News

  • AMICO AND FORTIFIBER TEAM IN MIDWEST

    Alabama Metal Industries Inc. and Fortifiber Building Systems Group have joined forces to market and distribute Fortifiber’s Jumbo-Tex Pony Rolls in the Midwest, from AMICO’s Kansas City Distribution Center. 

  • ARMSTRONG NAMES CEILING RECYCLER OF THE YEAR

    Armstrong World Industries has named the National Security Agency in Ft. Meade, Md., as its 2009 Ceiling Recycler of the Year. Over the past 14 months, the government agency has recycled more than 400,000 square feet of discarded ceiling tiles rather than sending them to a landfill.  

  • CISCA RELEASES ACOUSTICS REPORT FOR SCHOOLS

    The Ceilings & Interior Systems Construction Association has released an extensive white paper, “Acoustics in Schools,” designed as a tool for architects, interior designers, and other design professionals who work to improve school environments for all users. According to the association, this is the first white paper to address this issue and is available at no charge. 

  • GREEN GLUE AND CERTAINTEED GYPSUM PARTNER WITH ACOUSTIC SOLUTIONS

    The Green Glue Co. has entered into an agreement with CertainTeed Gypsum to become the exclusive sales representative to independent professional channels in the United States for Green Glue noise proofing products. 

  • NATIONAL GYPSUM REFUTES SCIENTIST’S CLAIMS

    National Gypsum said in a prepared press release that statements made by Dr. Timothy Townsend, in a CBS Nightly News segment aired in December, are misleading and unjustly harming the company’s reputation in the marketplace. Dr. Townsend is a professor at the University of Florida. 
 
 
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    Shelterforce

  • Shelterforce Interview: HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan

    8 Feb 2010 | 3:54 pm
    Donovan came into this post wearing his New York City portfolio on his sleeve. Plucked from the city’s Department of Housing Preservation & Development, his selection alone to lead the agency provided an indication that the newly elected president was trying to make HUD into a relevant, powerful agency. Donovan helped to implement New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s 10-year, $7.5 billion New Housing Marketplace Plan, which is the largest municipal housing plan in the country and a model for how to create and preserve affordable housing for cities across the country, as well as helping…

  • Industry News

    8 Feb 2010 | 11:34 am
    Organizations NeighborWorks America has received a $425,000 grant from Citi Foundation to enhance the professional capabilities of housing counselors. The grant will be used by the NeighborWorks Center for Homeownership Education and Counseling (NCHEC) which provides homeownership counselors with access to quality tools, materials, best practices and uniform standards designed to help low- to moderate-income clients make informed homeownership decisions. NCHEC will use the grant to provide training and certification to more than 400 housing counseling practitioners who will reach as many as…

  • Access

    8 Feb 2010 | 6:00 am
    From Crisis to Opportunity: Responding to the Growing Economic Crisis for Knoxville’s Marginalized Children, a report released by the Kirwin Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity, looks at opportunities available to children in Knoxville, Tenn., particularly those in concentrated poverty and racially isolated neighborhoods. The report incorporates several interviews with local stakeholders and finds that children in the most distressed communities face “multiple barriers to opportunity,” including safe and stable housing, access to health care, high quality education, viable…

  • Access

    22 Nov 2009 | 11:00 pm
    Credit Unions: True To Their Mission Part II, from the National Community Reinvestment Coalition, focuses on fair lending performance of credit unions. The report analyzes several credit unions and compares them to bank service in working and minority communities. The study finds that credit unions lag behind banks on 64 percent of the fair lending indicators that were examined. Out of Reach 2009: Persistent Problems, New Challenges for Renters, released by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, looks at the 36 million renter households in the U.S. and offers a side-by-side comparison of…

  • Industry News

    22 Nov 2009 | 11:00 pm
    Organizations Women’s Housing and Economic Development Corporation (WHEDCo), a Bronx, NY-based non-profit organization, has won the 15th Annual Charles L. Edson Tax Credit Excellence Award in Green Housing for WHEDCo’s new Intervale Green, the largest affordable multi-family ENERGY STAR-certified building in the country. WHEDCo was nominated for the award by the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC), which along with its sister agency, the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), provided financial support to the building. The Edson Award,…
 
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    The Village Carpenter

  • Antique Inspiration

    The Village Carpenter
    7 Feb 2010 | 3:59 pm
    All out of ideas for a new project? Suffering from woodworker's block? Wishing your spouse would give you a honey-do list?Snap out of it! You're a woodworker. So head to a place that features feats of woodworking.Some favorite places that help spark my electrons are museums and antique stores.And if you live in my area, you don't have run-of-the-mill antique stores, you have the Antique Capital of South Central PA: New Oxford, Pennsylvania.There you will find lots of pieces to inspire and invigorate. And by the end of the day, you'll be itching to get into your shop.I asked permission to take…

  • Roy's Grease Pot

    The Village Carpenter
    2 Feb 2010 | 3:05 pm
    Ever since I saw Roy Underhill's grease pot at the WIA conference in October, I've wanted to make one. Roy puts tallow in his box, but you can also use beeswax to lubricate your saws and handplanes.Roy shows you how to build this box on his show, and I basically followed his suggestions step-by-step. But for a drill press, I used only hand tools.It's a neat little project and one that can be made in an afternoon when you're trying to get out of doing housework or cooking dinner.

  • The Finish Line

    The Village Carpenter
    29 Jan 2010 | 6:16 am
    When I'm in "the zone", it can be difficult to resist the desire to glue up a project before I add finish to inside pieces of a drawer or cabinet.But you do yourself a favor if you finish first, assemble second. That's because trying to achieve a flat, brushed- or ragged-on finish when you're dealing with inside corners is next to impossible. I fixed the drawer on my sawbuck table but, tempted as I was to glue it up, decided to first conduct a comparison study of different finishes on a practice piece to see which looks best. The sawbuck table is made from curly cherry, a wood that's tricky…

  • Who Would Have Thought...

    The Village Carpenter
    25 Jan 2010 | 4:47 pm
    15 years ago that we would have the abundance of information that's freely available to us on the internet today.Any questions you have about woodworking, warblers, and wombats can be found online. And the presentation of this information just keeps getting better and better.There's enough great woodworking content—through magazines, forums, blogs, and podcasts—to occupy all 24 hours of your day.But in case you're looking to fill those few stray minutes, check out the sites on my links page. They're not in alphabetical order for no other reason than I like randomness.Just to point out a…

  • Suddenly, I See

    The Village Carpenter
    20 Jan 2010 | 4:57 pm
    Believe it or not, this blog was never meant to be exclusive to hand tools. Power tools were included in the orginal plan (albeit, only a little bit), but feedback from readers, and an ever-growing attraction to hand tool blogs and forums, steered me toward my ultimate woodworking destiny.Don't get me wrong. I'm not about to sell my table saw. And my band saw? Forget it. That guy's going to be buried with me. But after two and half years of blogging, I'm all up in the hand tool grill.So much so, that I've started seeing everything through hand tool-colored lenses. I showed up early to our…
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    site-k construction zone

  • Statement By AEM President Dennis Slater On “Jobs Report”

    Greg
    8 Feb 2010 | 3:37 pm
    As announced recently, the unemployment rate may have officially dipped just below 10 percent, but for many industries that is little consolation. Unemployment in the construction equipment industry is more than double the national average, but we can recapture these jobs with the right legislation. What’s the solution? Washington needs to focus on legislation for a multi-year, fully-funded transportation infrastructure program that would boost employment in the construction industry, including equipment manufacturers and dealers who sell the machinery and construction contractors who…

  • World Of Asphalt And AGG1 Shows Are Set For Success With Strong Advance Registration And Exhibit Numbers

    Greg
    7 Feb 2010 | 7:38 pm
    With their opening just several days away, the co-located AGG1 Aggregates Forum & Expo  and World of Asphalt Show & Conference are set to be an unqualified success. Advance registration is tracking ahead of the 2009 events, with registrants from 30 countries worldwide in addition to the U.S. and Canada. Exhibit space already tops last year’s final total. Education tickets sold to date are also ahead of the 2009 pace. The shows will run February 15-18, 2010 at the Duke Energy Convention Center in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio and will be the industry gathering place for aggregates,…

  • AEM And Export-Import Bank Begin Pilot Program For Small-Medium Size Member Companies

    Greg
    7 Feb 2010 | 3:18 pm
    Small- and medium-sized companies with membership in the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) can now benefit from a pilot program with the Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank) to increase their exports. (left to right) Chuck Martz, Dennis Slater and Fred Hochberg Dennis Slater, president of the association, and Fred P. Hochberg, the chairman and president of Ex-Im Bank, launched the program to help AEM’s small- and medium-sized (SME) member companies boost exports. AEM 2010 Chairman Chuck Martz, President & CEO of Link-Belt Construction Equipment,…

  • JCB And Volvo Construction Equipment Sign Framework Agreement On Skid Steer & Compact Tracked Loaders

    Greg
    1 Feb 2010 | 8:57 am
    JCB and Volvo Construction Equipment have entered into a framework agreement under which they will cooperate on the engineering and manufacturing of skid steer loader and compact tracked loader products for distribution under their respective brands and through their respective global dealer networks. It is envisaged that the first mono boom Volvo branded machines will be in production at JCB’s Savannah, Georgia facility by year-end 2010. Volvo Construction Equipment will then transition skid steer loader models over time from its Pederneiras facility in Brazil. John Patterson, Deputy…

  • Cat 973D Track Loader More Powerful, Productive, Fuel-Efficient And Easier to Operate

    Greg
    29 Jan 2010 | 9:12 am
    The new 973D completes the Cat D-Series Track Loader lineup. It features load-sensing hydraulics, joystick steering, new operator’s station (with tilting cab) and 10 percent more power than its 973C predecessor. The new loader carries on the 973C’s “all-purpose performer” reputation and retains much of its solid design, including the Cat C9 engine, hydrostatic drive, single-fabrication mainframe, Z-bar loader linkage and oscillating undercarriage. The 973D is a “one-machine workforce” with the features to take on the toughest jobs—at construction sites or…
 
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    TradePub: Construction

  • Walls & Ceilings

    5 Feb 2010 | 1:50 pm
    They cover all aspects of the industry: drywall, lath and plaster, stucco, ceilings and acoustics, exterior insulation finish systems (EIFS), fireproofing, metal framing and architectural decorative ornamentation, insulation, windows/doors, trims/moldings, spray textures and paints.Request Free!

  • Cranes Today

    1 Feb 2010 | 9:20 am
    This monthly magazine serves the whole of the crane industry from the manufacturers through the wholesale and retail crane agents distribution chain, crane rental firms and end users of cranes and allied equipment.Request Free!

  • Construction Equipment

    1 Feb 2010 | 9:20 am
    Construction Equipment provides information about the acquisition, use, management and maintenance of equipment, trucks and related products. Stay informed on the latest developments in the industry with a free subscription to Construction Equipment magazine.Request Free!

  • Sustainable Facility

    1 Feb 2010 | 12:20 am
    Get the latest news and information unique to the green facility community, including:Energy conservationAlternative energySustainable design/build techniques for building interior and envelopesWater conservation techniquesGreen cleaning and maintenanceIndoor Air Quality (IAQ)Cool RoofingGreen-focused repair/replace/remodelingDaylightingRequest Free!

  • Residential Systems

    1 Feb 2010 | 12:20 am
    Provides custom home entertainment, automation, and security design and installation professionals with the most penetrating insights into how business and technology trends will affect their industry in the years to come.Request Free!
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    HomeStars

  • Best Contractors of Calgary – 2009 Awards

    BrianS
    8 Feb 2010 | 7:52 am
    Last Thursday we announced the our second annual Best of Toronto Contractor awards, yesterday we rolled out Vancouver today we launch the Best of Calgary winners, again the first awards in that city.

  • The Best Contractors of Vancouver – 2009

    BrianS
    7 Feb 2010 | 2:56 pm
    Last Thursday we announced the our second annual Best of Toronto Contractor awards and launched them on our site. Today we launch the Best of Vancouver representing our first Vancouver contractor awards.

  • The Best Toronto Contractors – 2009 Awards Night

    BrianS
    5 Feb 2010 | 2:10 pm
    Last night HomeStars announced the Best of Toronto awards at the Toronto Cricket Club. About 200 people showed up representing about 110 different companies. It was a night to celebrate those that don't get publicly rewarded often for the hard work they put into their businesses.

  • Best of 2009 Toronto Awards Night coming up on February 4

    NancyP
    31 Jan 2010 | 5:05 pm
    On February 4 the Best of 2009 winners will be unveiled in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Hamilton – similar to our 2008 Best of winner page. Last year over 80 companies came out to celebrate the event.  This year there are 95 qualifiers and everyone is welcome. We are not unveiling the Best of 2009 winners [...]

  • Chilliwack Home Show – Our First Show of the Season

    BrianS
    30 Jan 2010 | 4:27 pm
    Shannon, our 'overcaffinated' sales rep, was in Chilliwack this weekend for the Chilliwack Home Leisure Expo, a BC show run by a company called HomeShowTime. We're excited to be a presenter at this lower mainland show.
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    Ask the Flooracle

  • Dust Containment Equipment for Hardwood Flooring

    Jim Birch
    26 Jan 2010 | 2:59 pm
    Using the latest technology, you can offer your customers a clean, healthy environment during and after hardwood flooring installations. Stop spending hours before you start taping off duct work and doors, or hours after vacuuming the house and cleaning up your equipment. Did you remember to vacuum on top of the ceiling fan's blades, or on that sill that hangs twelve feet in the air above the staircase? Leaving it could allow the dust to fall in the finish as it dries, making your hard work look less than stellar. There is a better way that can help save you time, money, and help set yourself…

  • Festool High Quality Abrasives

    Jim Birch
    22 Jan 2010 | 2:30 pm
    With a complete line of abrasives in seven different types, and grits ranging from 24 to 4000, Festool has the perfect product to meet your specific application needs. Festool abrasives, with their high tech coatings, provide maximum resistance to clogging and smearing, which means longer lasting abrasives and less reworking for you.

  • Festool for Hardwood Flooring

    Jim Birch
    22 Jan 2010 | 10:22 am
    Festool is a high quality manufacturer of power tools. Their saws, sanders and other tools all work together to make you more productive, and do the job right the first time, limiting missed cuts and wasted materials. Take a look through this post to find Festool solutions to everyday work flooring installers find.

  • Different Types of Hardwood Flooring

    Jim Birch
    21 Jan 2010 | 1:30 pm
    This article explains the differences between solid hardwood flooring, engineered wood flooring, and floating hardwood floors. Each type of floor has similarities and differences. You want to choose the correct wood floor for your application. Click through to learn more.

  • Wood Flooring Grading

    Jim Birch
    21 Jan 2010 | 9:05 am
    Who regulates what is allowed into your hardwood floor? If you are buying unfinished hardwood flooring, manufactured in the United States, there are two organizations that mills can belong to that help ensure a great floor.
 
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    Calfinder Remodeling Blog

  • Cool Kirei Tiles Made From Real Coconut

    Jennifer
    8 Feb 2010 | 2:23 pm
    If you’ve ever been told that you’re a bit nutty, then this newest design material is definitely for you. Kirei, a Solana Beach, California-based company, has found a way to transform discarded coconut shells into fascinating wall tiles and panels. Kirei Coco Tiles are an entire series of eco-friendly designs made from coconut shells. The shells are glued to plywood backers using only low- or zero-VOC resins and adhesives. Not only are these products made from 30-percent recycled materials, but they are remarkably unique. Look at all the different designs for these tiles! Somewhat mosaic…

  • One Parisian Apartment’s Ingenious Use of Space

    Jennifer
    8 Feb 2010 | 1:15 pm
    Walls. They’re so bourgeois, non? Unless, of course, they’re used in a totally functional way. An advertising exec living in Paris hired h2o Architects to completely rehab his digs. The mission: eliminate walls without a clear purpose, open up the small space and make better use of the remaining walls. Originally, the tiny apartment consisted of six miniscule rooms, each completely compartmentalized with a door to the entryway. The new design, however, allows for a continuous flow from one end of the home to another. The walls themselves serve various functions for each room. The idea was…

  • Re-Cover House is the Ultimate in Recycling-Remodeling

    Jennifer
    5 Feb 2010 | 2:26 pm
    What if you could remodel your home using only the materials you remove? One couple, with the help of their 35-year-old home’s original architectural firm, did just that. With only some new materials used in the renovation, all of the removed supplies were reintroduced to the home. The house, originally a vacation home on Long Island, changed hands over the years. The most recent owners decided a renovation was in order to give them more room for their family. So, they expanded the existing kitchen and dining room, up-scaled the bedrooms and refinished the floors, walls and countertops.

  • Here Comes the Sun: 5 Furnishings by Delia of Portland

    Lynn
    5 Feb 2010 | 1:55 pm
    #1 – Some things look better in multiples, especially if they’re brightly colored – flowers, jellybeans… and these sunny tables. At $65 each, a trio is an affordable complement to any room. #2 – Remember the Sleestak’s on the Land of the Lost? I’m certain my love of intensely colored glass stems from their use of that crystal matrix table. And it may also explain why I want this $150 piece bad. “Add to Favorites” – click! #3 – Check out this whimsical spiral bed with optional canopy. Easy assembly is required, and we’re told it’s sturdy. $900 (with canopy…

  • From Countertops to Texturized Wall Relief: Reinventing Quartz

    Lynn
    4 Feb 2010 | 1:00 pm
    CaesarStone proves that stunning texture isn’t just for countertops anymore. Quartz counters are slowly climbing the walls and lending themselves to a variety of special applications. Check it out… Part of the Motivo line, this textured surface was created using patented embossing technology. The design is subtle yet remarkably detailed. Here’s a dark variety, Ebony Reflections. The surface was used for the company’s showroom in an earthy bathroom setting. A fireplace gets a unique twist with CaesarStone’s Blizzard Corian. Pure, clean and brilliant. You can also order…
 
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    The Technician Shop

  • Consumer Trends

    David
    8 Feb 2010 | 7:46 am
    Do you suppose the owner of your company or its managers, follow consumer trends? Most are so busy trying to obtain business and keep you busy they do not have time. Others might say, “we deal in the trades, consumer trends don’t apply to us.” I am going to link out to a site that follows trends. They send out an e-mail newsletter once per month that contains information on trends. It’s a quick read. As a technician, you would like to work for a company that has its eye on not only what’s going on today, but where it could go. The company provides four ways to…

  • Comanche Marketing: Self Image

    David
    5 Feb 2010 | 8:41 am
    Did you ever look into a mirror and think the guy looking back was your self-image? Or did you ever look into a mirror and imagine the guy looking back was the guy who you wanted to be? Did you know that how or what you think about yourself can influence your performance? Matt Michel, author of Comanche Marketing and CEO of the Service Roundtable, pens an article titled “Creating Positive Imprints on the Self-Image.” Matt tells a story about how Lanny Bassham, an Olympic athlete created positive imprints on his self-image and went from a silver to gold medal performance.

  • Is Your Manager an Asshole?

    David
    3 Feb 2010 | 9:05 am
    I’ve been writing online since the mid 90’s and have used profanity less than five times. The term asshole however, is so accurate in describing a certain type of manager, I have no choice but to use it here. If you’ve been reading along at The Technician Shop you know that I think existing management in the trades is in a world of hurt. There is a huge difference however, between the asshole manager and the incompetent manager. While the asshole manager is always incompetent, the incompetent manager is not always an asshole. There are thousands and thousands of…

  • Informational Interviewing: When Interview is Over

    David
    3 Feb 2010 | 8:41 am
    What is informational interviewing? You’ve just spent a half hour talking with and asking questions to Bob, the owner of Bob’s Plumbing. You now have a clear view of Bob’s company and how he goes to business. Thank Bob for spending time with you. Make sure you get one of Bob’s business cards and then ask him if he could recommend other people for you to talk with. As soon as you can following the interview with Bob, make notes on what you learned. Also, pay attention to how the interview progressed. What seemed to work? What didn’t? Make a point to incorporate…

  • His Head, the Door and Your Room

    David
    31 Jan 2010 | 6:20 am
    You’ve heard it before. This guy has such a huge ego his head won’t make it through the door. Maybe that guy was you. Maybe not. If that guy was you (and you never changed), chances are you’ll never figure out how to get this guy into your room. Make that you’ll never even try to figure it out. The trades are so short on talent that it’d be a shame to not at least consider trying to work with a technician whose ego is bigger than a 500 ton air conditioning chiller. Pointed in the right direction, engaged and packing a degree of civility, the technician with a…
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    Hardwood Floors in Portland, Oregon

  • Local radio exposure for our knowledge

    Scott Avery
    7 Feb 2010 | 4:40 pm
    We recently wrote a response to a listener of local handyman show by Handyman Bob. We were honored when he shared it with his audience. It’s good to see great people still championing the cause of quality contracting. Radio interview MP3 link

  • The new face of low-VOC

    Scott Avery
    3 Feb 2010 | 5:12 pm
    Waterborne finishes run the gamut for durability. At our home we have two of the world’s greatest floor finish durability testers, boys ages 2 and 4 and a half. They lay credit to the fact that waterborne finish can be durable. In the change of the market towards waterborne finish, California has set the standard at 275g/L VOC maximum. In response, on of our favorite finishes (Dura Seal X-terra) has recently been re-formulated to be in compliance. In addition to being a very durable waterborne, this finish performs flawlessly on the job. We love the look and workability of this finish.

  • Beware of the boutique

    Scott Avery
    30 Jan 2010 | 8:54 pm
    Recently our shop was approached by a  “boutique” wholesaler to subcontract installations and sanding. It sounded like an interesting way to grow our business possibly. I had my reservations based on conversations with other remodeling colleagues who previously used this group. Specifically I was concerned that they were unwilling to pay a fair market rate for top notch contracting because of the types of installers they typically use. A brief conversation with the outfit quickly verified that my intuition was correct. The rates that they were willing to pay to installers were…

  • Staying on top of technology

    Scott Avery
    29 Jan 2010 | 2:53 pm
    I am pleased to announce that we will be adding a new piece of equipment to our lineup this week. It is the new Clarke SE7 Pro edger. Given that most dust generated during sanding comes from the edger, we are pleased to switch to this new machine. The dust collection is state of the art and greatly superior to most edgers. Dust collection systems generally are unable to capture the dust from gear driven edgers like the Clarke Super 7. The new SE7 Pro edger is belt driven and extremely clean. For more, click here

  • Restoring a botched sanding job

    Scott Avery
    24 Jan 2010 | 6:31 pm
    The other day we received a phone call from a distraught homeowner. She had unfortunately hired a “fly-by-night” contractor for a job. Originally when he was hired he was there to install tile, but assured the homeowners he could also refinish the wood floors. Because of the unethical nature of this person, I am willing to release that his company was called “A Touch of Class”, or at least that was the name under which he was operating. After checking his license I determined that was an inactive license with several judgments and orders to pay damage fees. During this…
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    Construction Risk Blog

  • Does Your Construction Jobsite Safety Program Need a Jump Start?

    Robert Phelan
    5 Feb 2010 | 12:59 am
    Does your safety program need a jump start? The medical profession has learned that most of us aren't going to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. That's why they've invented Lipitor, beta blockers and other drugs that will help delay the inevitable. The ultimate rescue device is the AED or Automatic External Defibrillator. With one of these gizmos we can be just like the doctors we see on TV calling out "Clear", applying the paddles or pads, and shocking the heart back into its normal rhythm. AEDs save a lot of lives and you see them everywhere now, from hallways in buildings to…

  • When Buying Cheap Insurance Leads to Disaster

    Robert Phelan
    31 Jan 2010 | 11:56 pm
    Bad insurance decisions can sometimes have catastrophic consequences for construction companies. In most cases, cheap insurance is the culprit.We came across a very successful third generation company with a large, loyal client base. But they had an insurance problem. Typical workers comp claims for one year usually totaled $50 - $100,000. Now they had a year with $1M in claims, ten times the average. Their EMR (Experience Mod Rate) had spiked to 1.24 costing them an extra $100,000 per year. How does that happen? Two things had gone wrong. They chose an insurance company selling cheap…

  • To Test Drive or Not to Test Drive

    Robert Phelan
    28 Jan 2010 | 11:49 pm
    First of all, what do I mean by a Test Drive. Test Drive what? Test Drive the Risk Advisor's service program and the team that will deliver it. Depending on how many of my posts you've read, it might be unclear what I mean by Risk Advisor. Since my company is the first Risk Advisory firm dedicated to the construction industry, I will explain. There are over 30,000 property/casualty insurance agencies in the U.S. The people who work in these companies are defined by the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) as follows:Property and casualty insurance agents sell policies that protect individuals and…

  • Take Our Insurance Program for a Test Drive

    Robert Phelan
    28 Jan 2010 | 12:17 am
    Have you ever bought a suit without trying it on? Have you ever bought a car without a test drive, without really putting it through its paces, checking the stereo quality, making sure the skis or golf clubs fit in the trunk? Or a TV? If you're like most of us, you stare at the techno wizardry from Asia, all lined up neatly on the wall of the "home theatre" display and try to be the clever one who can discern the nuances of picture quality. You probably even test drive cell phones before you buy them; reviewing and watching the young geek explain all the bells and whistles, even holding it in…

  • No More Mr. Nice Guy

    Robert Phelan
    26 Jan 2010 | 11:46 pm
    You probably don't realize that the more you focus on safety the more you could be helping your competition. That's right. If you buy what we call "Guaranteed Cost" insurance, and you have an excellent safety record, you're actually subsidizing the premiums of your unsafe competitors.You don't believe me? Think about how insurance works. All the contractors in a given state pay premiums to their respective carriers. Those who focus on safety are profitable to their insurance company. The best ones (what you want to be) might make their carrier 30-40 cents on the dollar. Most aren't in that…
 
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    Building Arizona

  • 2010 Construction Outlook

    Sommer Caraway
    4 Feb 2010 | 7:37 am
    A co-hosted event by CFMA of Arizona and McGraw-Hill Construction will bring together economic leaders in the Arizona market to share an informational update on the state of the construction economy from their unique quali­fied vantage point. This region-specific forecast will provide a comprehensive preview of the Arizona economy that will help in avoiding hazards, while discovering opportunities. When: February 11, 2010 Registration: 7 a.m. Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. Speakers 8:00 a.m. — 9:30 a.m. Where: Phoenix Airport Marriott (44th St & 202) Who: Tom Lawless – President, CFMA Cliff…

  • Survival 101 Seminar: Winning Project Interviews

    Sommer Caraway
    3 Feb 2010 | 9:14 am
    Small Giants is presenting the Survival 101 Seminar: Winning Project Interviews for AIA Continuing Education. Below are the details. Winning Project Interviews With so many firm’s vying for the same project, it is critically important that your firm understand what owners want to hear, what is expected and how to stand out in a powerful way to win the project. Tuesday – February 9, 2010 7:30 a.m.  – Registration (Continental breakfast will be provided) 8:00 a.m.  – 10:00 a.m. Program $10 Members; $20 Non-Members RSVP by Feb. 8, noon. Complete this PDF to register.

  • Canstruction Awards & Networking Mixer

    Sommer Caraway
    3 Feb 2010 | 9:08 am
    Stop by Fiesta Mall the week of Feb. 22 to see the eight structures A/E/C teams build to benefit St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance for Canstruction. Then mingle with the creators of the structures to at the Phoenix Canstruction Awards & Networking Mixer to learn the secrets of the pros and be one of the first to hear who wins the coveted AIA Phoenix Metro People’s Choice Award! February 24, 2010, 5-7 p.m. by registration only Chevy’s Fresh Mex® Restaurant 1335 S. Alma School Road, Mesa, AZ 85210 Appetizers and a drink ticket will be provided for all attendees.  Check-in and…

  • A New Twist on Client Relations: Psychographer Jack Dermody

    Patricia Krogh
    26 Jan 2010 | 4:34 pm
    For the January SMPS Arizona Monthly breakfast, Jack Dermody of Four Windows spoke on psychographics, the component of marketing that many of us in the A/E/C industry may overlook as we interact with our clients and create marketing vehicles to communicate the benefits of our firms. Jack successfully condensed his client relations workshop into a 45-minute sneak peak into the application of Four Windows with an interactive exercise in proposal writing. Mike Godbehere introduced Jack and shared a number of experiences using the Four Windows methodology in his every day client relations…

  • Let’s Get Social

    Kimberly Mickelson
    25 Jan 2010 | 2:57 pm
    Why should your firm consider social networking as a tool in their marketing toolbox? ACEC of Arizona, APWA Arizona Chapter, and the SMPS Arizona Chapter is bringing an overview of the groundbreaking SMPS Foundation White Paper: “Social Networking for Competitive Advantage: How professional service firms differentiate themselves to win work, recruit, and retain talent.” Attendees will gain insight from a summary overview of social networking practices and learn what other firms are doing based on results of a survey conducted in 2009.  The presenter will disucss various social…
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