Architecture Billings Index Remains on Solid Footing

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Buoyed by increasing levels of demand across all project types, the Architecture Billings Index was positive in June for the fifth consecutive month. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate 9-12-month lead time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects reported the June ABI score was 52.6, down from the mark of 53.1 in the previous month. This score still reflects an increase in design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). The new projects inquiry index was 58.6, down from a reading of […]

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Storage Box Keeps Supplies Protected in Extreme Conditions

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KNAACK recently introduced a jobsite storage box engineered to keep supplies at optimal temperatures. Designed specifically for contractors working in cold environments, the THERMOSTEEL is a heated storage unit that saves money, reduces downtime and prevents damage to tools and materials due to cold temperatures. Simply plug in the heating element when jobsite temperatures drop below 40 degrees to ensure supplies are safe from extreme temperatures. Included with all models, its door and blanket help keep everything at the optimal temperature. The storage boxes are designed to protect against theft and resist jobsite conditions. With the Watchman IV independent locking […]

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Three Ways Virtual Reality Will Change the Jobsite

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By Peter J. Barden, AIA, NCARB Virtual reality, a computer-simulated environment that can simulate physical presence in places within the real world or imagined worlds, was once limited to the video game industry; however, it is quickly making its way into design and construction. In gaming, VR is an immersive technology that enhances the gaming experience: explore oceans or distant planets, fly planes or battle aliens. For the construction industry and the superintendents within it, VR isn’t simply an interactive movie, but a technology with true business potential — one that can save time, money and conflicts on the job. […]

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A Chat with Greg Hellem, Superintendent at Forté Specialty Contractors

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By Chris Schmidt A more than 30-year construction industry veteran, Greg Hellem recently joined Forté Specialty Contractors as superintendent. In this position, Hellem is responsible for providing leadership and supervision to the onsite staff. His first project with Forté has been working on Wynn’s newest nightclub, Intrigue, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is accountable for assisting the project scheduling managers in developing and refining the project schedule—as well as the planning and review of the construction program—including quality control procedures and safety and security practices. Hellem discusses his transition from teacher in a school to teacher on the jobsite and his […]

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Retail Innovation, Renovation Drive Construction Growth in 2016

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CHICAGO, Ill. — A strong retail sector has helped drive 2016 U.S. construction activity with retail construction projects up 24.4 percent year-over-year. But overshadowing the good news is a cloud of economic uncertainty that has companies laser-focused on Lean budgeting and smart spending decisions. According to JLL’s latest report on nonresidential construction activity, U.S. construction employment grew 4.7 percent in the first quarter of 2016 over the first quarter of 2015, with many workers engaged on retail projects. Concerns about China’s steep economic deceleration, combined with a drop in U.S. gross domestic product from 1.4 percent in the fourth quarter […]

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