Few phases of residential construction test a builder’s coordination skills like kitchen and bath installation. As Carl Hagstrom, a veteran cabinet installer, noted in his 1996 JLC article on staying on top of the kitchen, the site mixups he encountered over the years ranged from minor glitches to major and expensive headaches. His central observation […]
Every construction business owner enters each project expecting a profit, but the numbers at the end of a job often tell a very different story. The Rutlidge Institute spent years analyzing construction companies nationwide and identified six recurring factors that systematically destroy profitability. Understanding them is the first step toward a more resilient business. For
Every construction budget comes with hard choices. When margins are tight, builders weigh the upfront cost of specialized products against their long-term benefits. The question of whether a premium product delivers genuine value is one every experienced contractor has faced. Some products justify their price through superior performance and durability, while others represent marketing more
HVAC Notebook: Essential Field Strategies for Modern Building Systems A well-designed HVAC system is no longer a luxury in modern construction; it is a fundamental requirement for occupant comfort, health, and long-term building durability. As building envelopes grow tighter and energy codes become more stringent, the role of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning extends far
The New England construction industry has long relied on the region’s abundant natural resources, particularly its timber supply from northern forests. Recent developments in Maine’s forestry regulations have created significant shifts in how builders access and price lumber, making it essential for construction professionals to understand the evolving landscape. As noted in the historic History
Every builder faces the same question at the supply house: is this product worth the money? A tool that saves an hour on every job can pay for itself in a week, while a cheap alternative that fails mid-project can cost far more. This is especially true for budget panel saw kits, plaster repair materials,
Modern construction sites look dramatically different than they did just a decade ago. From cordless rotary hammers that eliminate the hassle of extension cords to advanced building materials that improve energy performance, the tools and materials available to today’s builders are more capable and sophisticated than ever. Understanding these innovations is essential for contractors and
The History Construction New England Stone Walls reflects the region’s deep roots in building tradition. The New England construction economy has experienced cycles of recession and recovery that offer valuable lessons for builders and contractors. In the mid-1990s, while politicians debated the health of the national economy, the foundations of the New England construction economy
Running a successful remodeling business requires more than skilled trades and quality materials. Without sound money management, even the most talented remodelers can find their profits vanishing beneath mounting overhead, underestimated project costs, and unpredictable cash flow gaps. This guide draws on proven financial strategies from the construction industry to help remodelers take control of
Every builder has faced the question: is this premium product really worth the extra cost? The Journal of Light Construction has long tackled this question in their product roundups, showcasing interesting and useful building products and helping professionals decide where to spend their budgets wisely. Understanding how to evaluate a product’s true value on the
