Thanks to the evolution of construction, building homes and large-scale offices can now be done more efficiently and more effectively. This section includes information on the various equipment and techniques used in the Construction industry today.
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How homeowners can keep their homes safe in the winter, especially roofs and gutters
Deadheading will help your plants look more full and bushy, as well as promote healthier plants and keep your gardens and container plantings looking neat and tidy.
Tips on how to pick the right paint for your home, as well as stylistic improvements you can make to your home.
If you evaluate the trees in your own backyard during the winter months, you'll be able to spare yourself the hassel and safety issues
How to shop, select, and care for Pointsettias
When Mike Musto was in college he knew he wanted to own his own business.
No contractor needs us to tell him why he's in business or why he wants to improve his business.
The paving and pavement maintenance industry has no manifesto or "how-to" manual (other than this magazine) to help guide contractors on what to do and how to do it.
Chattanooga's Clean Sweep improves driver responsibility and efficiency by eliminating hourly pay
Family-oriented Dryco relies on loyalty and processes to maintain job quality
In August I attended the Summer Conference of the Concrete Foundations Association (CFA) and in September the Annual Conference for the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC).
Tom Shaughnessy offers construction managers these 10 tips to leverage wireless technologies to maximize productivity and coordinate a project on the run:
Too many sales professionals in construction have fallen into the trap that selling is just another way to make a living.
Few striping contractors give much thought to the difficult environment that striping equipment must survive in, and the strain that heavy pavement striping paints put on airless equipment.
While the terminology, "Perpetual Pavement," has only been around since 2000, the concept has been around for more than 50 years.
Put HMA producers and contractors, material suppliers, DOT and public works officials, agency material specification writers, academics, and consulting engineers in one room, and you have the makings of a "think tank" approach to addressing rising energy and material costs.
One of the most common problems the pavement maintenance industry faces is a poor reputation caused by the fly-by-night operators who afflict every region of the country.
Commercial contractor takes safety to the next level
Contractor's wife transforms "nuisance" sealcoating into profitable division of Allied Asphalt
Tough economic times mean businesses have to pay closer attention to what they're doing and how they're doing it so they can survive the "bust" and be prepared to handle the "boom" when the fuse is lit.
Recycling service that he;p[s eco-friendly development.
The primary use of a skid-steer loader is as a power source," says Kelly Moore, skid-steer and track loader product manager, Gehl Co.
Material transfer devices and vehicles keep the mix flowing
Some people might view Worthington Paving as a throwback to the good old days when "hands-on" was the way of the world, when integrity was expected, and when doing it right the first time was the only way to do business.
In 2006 the NAPSA board of directors began an annual strategic planning meeting.
It surprised us how many people were not familiar with the NPCA after eight years, but it seems many people just hadn't noticed.
The American Road and Transportation Builders Association (www.
Haskell Lemon Construction Co. recently completed a new full-depth Perpetual Pavement project southwest of Oklahoma City and State Highway 152 is already receiving accolades from state and national associations
Revisions and clarifications leave 1990 law intact and applicable to parking lots
Pavetec divides paving train to conquer challenging high-altitude tunnel application
North Carolina contractor takes on intricate forming in decorative driveway project.
Conditions sometimes demand it; here's what you need to know
A look at the basics of concrete grinding, honing and polishing.
Last issue we introduced you to "job cycle time," urging you to identify the steps each job requires and offering some insights into how you might approach determining cycle times for the work you do.
For almost 25 years this magazine, National Pavement Expo, and National Pavement Expo West, have been dedicated to the development, growth, and improvement of the paving and pavement maintenance industry.
When customers disagree with you or contest a particular activity there is often wasted energy trying to persuade them to see things as you see them.
Las Vegas Paving installs new 600 TPH counterflow drum mixer to meet area's asphalt needs
When you purchased your skid steer loader or backhoe, how many job applications did you have in mind? Chances are, you purchased this equipment for a specific application or two and never really considered what else it could be used for — with the right attachment.
Our typical consulting assignment is to put together a wealth transfer plan for a successful business owner.
It's a long story but I ended up with a large area in the back with no grass, so I replanted with "good stuff.
Tackling a big job takes confidence, planning, and a willingness to rethink the job on site
Porous concrete provides benefits for paving commercial parking lots
A recent Jeld-Wen study confirms just how important exterior doors are to hooking new owners. Real-estate agents said that 82 percent have had potential buyers decline to look inside a home based on its exterior.
Last month we discussed how too many contractors do a great job completing their work but make a big mistake by failing to ask satisfied customers for referrals.
Marketing is an aspect with which almost every business needs to concern itself.
The newest generation of big skid steers is capable of shaking off its utility-machine mantle and competing aggressively for production tasks with electronic-over-hydraulic joysticks and steadily more-refined cockpits.
Austin coal tar ban based on flawed study, bad science
Our goal has always been to provide information to help contractors improve and grow their businesses, and recently through our Web site we've taken some steps that will broaden that information flow, enable us to provide more timely information, and maybe even engage you a little bit.
The ultramodern Odyssey II? brake controller derives much of its technology from Valley's original ...
The hard facts on concrete breaking equipment
Twenty years after reconstructing a section of this road, Meadow Valley Contractors returns with today's technologies
The traditional contractor was an expert on their trade.
Our trusty building envelope and moisture control experts provide eight must-follow rules for designing effective roof systems.
Terms and phrases that get thrown around when it comes to green remodeling.
A look at the leading choices for cast-in-place applications
Contemporary dining furniture sets can spruce up the look of your home. Here are a few recent offerings by local companies with for your home.
Visiting with a contractor recently, I was reminded of some of the not-so-fun things contractors and construction leaders must do.
Striving to create and maintain a good reputation has paid off for Kettle Moraine Asphalt Maintenance
Housing drop contributes to lower forecast for cement
4 SWEEPERS TELL HOW NAPSA'S CERTIFIED SWEEPING COMPANY PROGRAM HAS HELPED THEIR BUSINESS -- AND THE SWEEPING INDUSTRY
Cost-effective and resource-efficient construction techniques allow contractors to be able to build green homes.
When the road construction season draws to a close, innovative contractors find a way to complete one more project.
Industry insiders and concrete contractors share their thoughts on the booming commercial market.
Equpiment to make everday commercial duties a simpler task.
Business owners can improve their work sites by lessening cultural differences and lowering communication barriers
New green building guidelines to address sustainable landscaping
As green building's popularity rises, the construction industry looks to concrete to satisfy environmental design requirements.
Preparation and the willingness to make an investment allow a contractor to drive his company in a direction he once wanted to escape.
Nearly two years ago, Town of Hilton Head Island, S.
Recently a student of ours commented on various color combinations for stamped and stained concrete and asked us which colors we used most frequently.
Every year, incomplete concrete repairs and insufficient corrosion protection cost building owners throughout the United States considerable money and time.
Other repair methods work, but for problem pavements you need to remove and replace
Proper hoist for construction work.
This article offers an inventory of new attachments for construction equipment.
Absolutely not, given the attention manufacturers are giving their curb-and-gutter machines
Three new tractors provide horsepower ratings to 530 and operating weights to 50,000 pounds
JoistStaff, moisture protection, premier building systems.
Safety was paramount in executing congested, tight road rehabilitation project in southern Louisiana
Settlements of disputes are commonplace in the construction industry.
Concrete contractors in Wisconsin got a chance to learn about concrete countertops and Buddy Rhodes mix at a seminar in Milwaukee on March 5.
How homeowners can keep their homes safe in the winter, especially roofs and gutters
How Hausz Concrete survived the rain
The concrete countertop industry is buzzing.
The concrete countertop industry is full of opportunities for contractors to learn how to create beautiful work.
Countertop contractors from diverse backgrounds use different styles and methods to achieve a common end — gorgeous concrete countertops!
Here's what some suppliers are offering for training to the asphalt industry
Unfortunately, most concrete has a tendency to crack, usually as a result of improper design or poor construction practices.
Concrete contractors are great at crafting cementicious materials into decorative features.
Unique designs and ideas from contractors across the country
Website for a designer specializing in unique home design.
Not convinced that a kitchen sink can be art? These examples might change your mind.
There's no Arthur Murray dance pattern to follow that will lead you to market dominance or profit, but there are certain steps to take that, if not essential to growth, certainly lay a solid base from which to build.
Deadheading will help your plants look more full and bushy, as well as promote healthier plants and keep your gardens and container plantings looking neat and tidy.
Tools to manage the high cost of liquid asphalt
One of the comments heard at the recent National Pavement Expo was from contractors who have to compete with fly-by-night pavers or sealcoaters who damage the market by undercutting reasonable pricing and providing shoddy, unprofessional work.
Neatness counts but planning & paving skills really come into play when producing professional and profitable driveways
Equipment manufacturers use new technology to serve equipment operators' needs in demolition work.
Tacoma, WA asphalt paving contractor, Woodworth & Company Inc. takes on the challenge of producing Trinidad Lake Asphalt mix and placing it on new Tacoma Narrows Bridge
It is unthinkable to suggest a 20-percent savings over private industry knowing that there are 22 stationary HMA plants in the seven county metro Denver area that are all breathing down on the market with a combined capacity in excess of over 5 million tons of asphalt production per year.
Recently I completed a two-day visit with an incredible contractor.
Phoenix-based Western Paving adds site preparation to its business, then adds software to ease dirt work
Switch from coal tar to asphalt doesn't phase Maul Asphalt & Sealcoating on its biggest job ever
How a single piece of equipment can speed every job while reducing worker fatigue
No matter how simple a piece of striping equipment may appear or how easy it may be to operate, it is going to require maintenance.
Terry Fulton had a far different introduction to the concrete business.
Thin hot mix asphalt overlay calls for interlayer solution to retard reflective cracking of new surface course
Repairing potholes can be a profitable business for contractors, and the range of pothole repair equipment on the market can help.
Sealcoating equipment maintenance is an important concern for this time of year whether you are preparing to wrap up your season or you are only halfway through.
In-cab enhancements highlight the Dash-8 version of PC400LC excavator
Your homes need to stay a step ahead of cookie-cutter design trends and have to look sharp enough to get potential buyers in the door. But builders need to keep pace with newer energy-efficient products around the building envelope as well.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's aggressive highway improvement program requires substantial investment and the support of qualified asphalt paving contractors, like Mago Construction Co.
Teresa Nichols-Dotts started EZ Sweep, Tarpon Springs, FL, in August of 2000 with one other employee and one sweeper.
A failing concrete overlay on I-40 near Raleigh-Durham, NC, was determined by the North Carolina DOT to be in need of replacement.
Jack was new to selling concrete flatwork but was young, excited and becoming very knowledgeable about concrete, the tools, work processes and of course the pricing strategies used by his company.
C & R Asphalt hits a home run paving Miracle League Field
Capitol Sweeping Services uses the information it collects to adapt to the changing sweeping market
During a recent trip to Florida I visited with a contractor who focuses on repair of concrete balconies on mid-sized commercial structures, i.
JoB Construction finds multiple benefits with intelligent asphalt roller
Know your costs, how to plan to keep your vehicles on the road
Ajax Paving Industries Inc. embarks on a three-year "I-75 Mega Project," the largest highway project in Florida's history, and the road crews are up to the task
The first steps contractors should take as they ready their sweeping equipment for spring is to check the primary chassis according to manufacturer's specifications.
Keeping your rollers operating at peak efficiency throughout the season can help you meet both quality specs and deadlines.
In the big picture, John has a good pavement maintenance company.
From their genesis, monuments are designed to become icons and gathering places for generations to come.
Palmetto Paving invests in a new plant to fill product and service void, and position itself for future growth potential
Garage doors come in a wide variety of materials and colors. Here, a few options for your home.
Now in its second year, Georgia's Department of Transportation's (GDOT) Full Depth Asphalt Road Reclamation (FDR) with Portland cement program provides an economical alternative to improve airports and busy city and rural roads, like Jackson County's Wayne Poultry Road
Asphalt producer/contractor selects Astec double barrel with green technology as first drum plant to meet growing demand and California environmentally-friendly culture
New forming systems are sparking a trend in the footings industry.
Bob just completed a leader's morning "huddle" before the rest of the crews got to work.
Barnhill Contracting Company use Topcon Millimeter GPS to expedite Albert J. Ellis Airport paving project in Jacksonville, NC during 60-hour shutdown
Determining how to classify a hazardous area is a complex, multi-step process. Many factors influence classification, including fuel types within the atmosphere, the probability of the fuel being present and its concentration, temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, ventilation, and distance from the source.
Consider environment and the electrical equipment's size and protection needs to accurately and cost-effectively determine the correct enclosure.
a how to guide for pruning around the home.
Homeowners will be pleased to learn about these new products. Find out more about these powerful home utlities.
Interior designers will be happy to hear about these new pieces.
A brief look at the latest structrual, insulation, and housewrap products from a variety of companies.
Points to consider when specifying boilers and boiler systems.
An overview of ductless mini-split heat pump systems, including usage, operation, and cost
Industry leaders provide strategies on how you can find and keep the best-skilled trade contractor crews for custom builders.
Using software on the job can help you keep track of employees, clients, and everything in between. Here, a look at a few software solutions for your business.
New England contractor Pike Industries has found that its three new HD 110 K combination rollers are ideal for compacting Superpave "tender zones" — keeping mat woes at a minimum, jobs moving and clients happy.
P & S Paving produces and places high reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) mix designs on Florida Department of Transportation State Road 15A project for third time
Technology is foundation of success for CFA's Contractor of the Year
Asphalt Paving & Maintenance selects customers, equipment, right jobs as it proceeds to grow
A website to help put the finishing touches on your home
Work with lutes, rakes, and other tools can make the difference between an average job and a top-quality driveway
Contractors who employ thermoplastic and paint striping equipment are well aware of the main difference between the two operations — heat.
When we hear on the news and read in the paper the dire pronouncements about the fragility of the U.
A recent article speaks of an alternative music band, Radiohead, from Europe that is letting their fans decide how much to pay for their newly released CD after the fans have heard its contents.
Paving crews can improve their finished pavement by keeping the rollers close to the paver — and to each other
Now, maybe sales is your thing and you want to do that full time.
A how-to guide to building pergola decks.
Online auctions provide a profitable sales channel for asphalt contractors
10 skills your next job foreman should have or develop
9 steps and you're ready to stripe
Webster's Dictionary defines guarantee as, "an assurance that something will be done as specified.
Of all the equipment in a pavement repair arsenal, infrared repair equipment probably requires the least maintenance.
Making a great first impression will positively impact your sales effort and, more importantly, win over the loyalty of your customers.
The sweeping season is about to pick up steam for northern contractors.
How to shop, select, and care for Pointsettias
Read the papers and I'm sure you're all opening the windows getting ready to jump.
Proven insights that help you get young or inexperienced workers producing as quickly as possible
Proper safeguards save lives and reduce insurance premiums
Get creative with cost-effective solutions that add design flair ? without compromising your product's affordable price tag.
A little less than 10 years ago, insulating concrete forms (ICFs) were known as a relatively obscure building system used mostly for foundations.
The Insulating Concrete Form Association (ICFA) has announced the winners of its second annual ICFA Excellence Awards.
Many traditional concrete contractors have found ICFs a beneficial addition to their lineup of services
With energy costs on the rise people are looking at different ways to save money.
Johnson Asphalt, Wisconsin Dells, WI, has always been a customer-focused company.
A dispute arose over payment of the contract sum when unanticipated problems with the pool renovation required additional work to be performed.
The Economic Stimulus Package brings back Bonus Depreciation and other tax benefits.
Simple changes made during winter maintenance program can save operators money
It's every business owner's wish to have a successful company.
Material handling becomes easier as equipment manufacturers downsize equipment and load them with features that make work easier for the operators.
Some people only look through windows. Others will look at those windows. Choose ones that will please both groups.
Entry doors define your home's first impression. Find the one suited to your needs.
A guide to inovative concrete usage with a link for further information
Contractors find insulated systems give them an edge over competitors.
A general contractor may not be covered under a general liability insurance policy for property damage caused by defective materials supplied by a subcontractor.
Ellsworth Construction steps up to tackle massive Smith Farms paving project
List of names and numbers of design manufacturers and retailers
This useful machine could be right for you
Too frequently, business people, such as concrete contractors, view their lawyers a necessary evil in the landscape that is the modern business world.
Few concrete contractors know how to track job costs effectively.
Middle Georgia Concrete Constructors is a relatively young company, but its experienced management team has embraced a series of business practices that have fostered strong growth.
This past month I received a phone call from a very worried contractor.
Most segments of the paving and pavement maintenance industry face low-ball pricing from fly-by-night contractors who not only don't really know what it costs them to do a job but also don't do a very good job to begin with.
Companies offer new technologies to make concrete contractors' site layout jobs easier.
Producer encouraged by mix made with new foamed asphalt system
Balloon lights are brightening more night worksites
Balloon lights are brightening more night worksites light
Workforce development is critical to the success of the asphalt industry and the construction industry in general.
Eubank Asphalt adds another portable asphalt plant to support major paving projects and overall competitive strategy
Upgraded lift trucks give operators the ability to move loads with greater efficiency and comfort.
As the government phases out incandescent bulbs, John Edmond is betting mercury concerns will steer people toward HB LEDs.
Lighting brightens your home. Electrical needs keep your lights running. Choose one that fits your needs.
Improved performance key to preserving asphalt roads with polymer modified emulsions and other additives
Virginia's Young Sealcoating relies on presentation and marketing to operate bigger than it really is
Most people would never attempt to clean their vehicle with a hammer.
Jobsite mixers can save contractors money on material costs
One of the primary elements in the construction industry that truly separates the successful companies from the not-so-successful companies is the ability to make good, effective decisions.
Oklahoma decorative contractors choose greener alternatives whenever possible.
Wacker's newest trowel is put to the test on this $100 million project.
North American Power Sweeping Association works to increase awareness among sweeping customers to help its members grow
Whether you're moving concrete or scrap from a demo site, power buggies make the job easier
Tips, products, and equipment to improve your pavement repair business
While the economic challenge of maintaining this nation's infrastructure is staggering, with U.
Tips for mentoring and on-the-job training for HVAC engineers
With limited budgets, three Massachusetts municipalities stretch their road maintenance dollars to maintain quality roads
Your niche is paving small driveways, but maybe it's time to move up to bigger driveways, parking lots, and possibly secondary road paving projects.
Multifunctional capabilities of Roadtec RX-900 cold planer allows Texas contractor to take on rural county road reclamation project and generate additional return on investment
We found out that this was in fact calcium deposits leaching to the surface, which can be removed.
The housing slump and disastrous mortgage industry crisis that has played out in 2007 and will continue to play out in 2008 will likely have a negative impact on the transportation construction market in the coming year if local and state governments feel the pinch of lower property tax values.
Lamos says the key architectural element of the fireplace is that it is comprised of modular components, or tiles.
Known for expedient construction time and long-term durability, site cast tilt-up construction structures offer a variety of architectural finishes and lower maintenance, both of which are important attributes to any building owner.
Seventh National Pavement Expo West to offer 20 new seminars to round out exhibit floor
Nevada's second Interstate 80 cold in-place recycling (CIR) east of Elko exhibits the road agency's confidence in using the rehabilitation approach on a heavily-traveled corridor
The first use of Doka's Table Lifting System in the U.S. speeds up construction on a North Carolina project.
To minimize disruption to production demand, Florida asphalt producer/contractor installs new plant in 19 days
Owners of this 55-year-old asphalt producer/paving business realized how limited their growth potential was with an old batch plant and decided the time was now to invest in a new state-of-the-art facility
When Eugene, OR-based Egge Sand and Gravel evaluated ways to expand its business, purchasing a new asphalt plant proved to be the most logical answer
Contractor uses vertical concrete system to create 'wood' countertop.
Skanska USA Civil West relies on infrared technology to meet tough joint density specs in reservoir job
Skanska USA Civil West relies on infrared technology to meet tough joint density specs in reservoir job
Women find their places in the concrete industry
Diverse exhibit floor offers opportunities for growth, diversification, and greater productivity
By writing job stories, profiling contractors, discussing equipment uses and trends, and introducing new developments to readers, we try to provide the "how to" information that will help contractors thrive and the industry continue to grow.
For many contractors, the end of the year means the end of another paving season.
Universal Building Services monitors wear to compare brooms
California's Competitive Asphalt Coatings orchestrates 4 million-sq.-ft. job in five days
It is the last frontier of design, the great outdoors. Bringing the outdoors in has been popular since the '60s introduced us to macramé, but the latest trend encourages us to bring indoor design techniques to enhance nature herself. The time is right to show shoppers how to expand their living space by bringing the comforts of home out into the fresh air.
Unless a contract specifically provides otherwise, an owner is not a third-party beneficiary of a standard contract between a general contractor and a subcontractor.
Swederski Concrete Construction focuses on planning, training and technology to further business and benefit the concrete industry.
Intermoutain Slurry Seal microsurfaces busy U.S. Route 76 at night
According to a recent study published by the Reason Foundation, a nonprofit think tank dedicated to advancing free minds and free markets, projected traffic delays are expected to increase by over 65 percent in 12 major U.
As a senior director of national resources for the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association and a member of the NRMCA's National Accounts promotion program, I have given numerous presentations on pervious concrete.
Tips on how to pick the right paint for your home, as well as stylistic improvements you can make to your home.
Pennsy Supply relies on planning and scheduling in piecemeal paving of commercial property