Rates Remain the Big Question for the New Year

No single factor weighs heavier on the building and construction industry for 2024 than interest rates and how they impact the cost of mortgages. This past year may not have been the worst of times for the building trade but it was far from the best. New housing and commercial building construction was severely impacted […]

Color of the Year? Depends on Who You Ask

For those builders trying to decide what color kitchen cabinets, floor coverings and even interior paint to use this year, the color gurus have answers – and plenty of them.  The Color of the Year announcements that came out towards the end of 2023 have turned into high-profile affairs both for consumers looking to decorate […]

Mass Timber Structure Proves It’s Stronger than an Earthquake… Twice

The Mass Timber movement continues to gain momentum for its environmental and aesthetic appeal but a test structure proved that beauty is more than skin deep.  Earthquakes are among the most devastating and destructive forces of nature, especially to high-rise structures. Engineers and builders have worked for decades – even centuries – to find solutions […]

Have Building Material Prices Peaked?

New data from the Producer Price Index suggests that costs are coming down on things like softwood lumber as part of an overall decline in material costs. The wild ride up in construction materials in 2023 may have peaked as the year ended and going into 2024 we could see some declines in those costs, […]

NBMDA Announces Officers and Directors for 2024

The new slate for the leadership of the North American Building Material Distribution Association is now in place for the new year.  The North American Building Material Distribution Association has announced its board of directors for 2024 as well as its executive leadership. “Last year, NBMDA experienced significant growth through the introduction of new members, […]

Enhancing Business Efficiency in 2024

As the business world transitions into a new year, opportunities for growth and success emerge, presenting a chance to strategize and invest in advancements that can boost efficiency. For those in the furniture industry, the months of January and February often witness slower sales, providing a strategic window to optimize operations. One key consideration for […]