The US Department of Labor has updated its Technical Assistance Guide (TAG) for the building industry. The guide helps construction managers and owners meet legal requirements and responsibilities for equal employment opportunity. “The Construction Technical Assistance Guide provides comprehensive and clear guidance that will help ensure equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination in the construction sector,” …
The trend toward more 9-foot ceilings in both single-family and multifamily housing starts is really gaining traction. Surveys shows increased production output in 2011 and 2012 of 9-foot and longer trims with no end in sight to this trend. Read on for more details…
The garage is a convenient place to store goods and we tend to use it as the repository for all that doesn’t fit in our homes. There are items, however, that should not be stored in the garage. Here’s a couple of storage tips to follow. Dirty Rags If you’ve used a rag to clean …
Knowing the climate zone your residential build will take place in will influence many of the decisions you will make as to construction methods and building materials. As energy conservation becomes a growing concern, building to your climate zone is an excellent way to ensure that you are providing your clients with the best options. Keep in mind that building and energy codes are the minimum standard.
In a recent survey by the National Safety Council, 69% of construction workers report being tired at work. With labor shortages, construction workers are experiencing increased demand on the jobsite as well as longer commutes. With construction workers at risk of injury, managers must find effective ways to combat fatigue on the jobsite, especially as …
The extreme cold affecting large swathes of the US and Canada has many crews working in life-threatening conditions. Hyporthermia can affect you even when the temperature is above freezing, so it’s important to know the signs and ensure your crew is properly prepared for cold weather. Get the Right Gear Start by dressing right. Layering …
We’ve come to understand that the quality of batt insulation relies heavily on the installation. No matter how good your insulation is, the way it is installed will determine your ability to reach increasingly stringent requirements for programs such as HERS, ENERGY STAR and LEED. Here’s some things you should focus on when installing batt …
It’s boom time in the construction business as housing demands increase. When this happens, there may be a temptation to take on more than you can handle. With a labor shortage and aging workforce, you may be caught with work and no one to do it. Here’s how to grow responsibly. Do it Yourself The …
Fall isn’t the best time for gutters. Leaves, twigs and debris clog gutters which can cause water to flow back up under the shingles. In winter, snow melt can’t safely run off the roof and water pools only to ice overnight. As the ice expands, it pushes up under the shingles and causes leaks. Cleaning …
The construction industry has been a male-dominated world for decades, but that is changing fast. A dire labor shortage has seen many companies turning to women to take up their tools. “What I find most fulfilling about working in the trades is starting with an idea and turning it into something that people can enjoy …
