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The American Wood Council (AWC) is prepared for an active 2020, but first, we look back at the challenges and resulting accomplishments over the course of 2019. Last year was marked by successes in the building codes development process, establishing lines of communications with the fire...

In our lumber market, when presented with a disruptive opportunity that appears to create a supply shortage or demand surge, buyers increase inventory on the expectation of higher prices; then, once we realize our over-zealous preparation, we liquidate those excessive positions, crashing prices....

Did you know that Simpson Strong-Tie offers free education and training to the construction industry? Indeed, we do. For several decades, Simpson Strong-Tie has made a commitment to supporting the development of our industry, and each year we educate tens of thousands of industry pros —...

Framing a house in one day will require floor panels, or “cassettes” in modern parlance. So be ready for this final phase in componentization, creating new opportunities, more computerization, and… Low-boy or drop-deck flatbed trailers to minimize trips to job. Extra...

Well, it’s that time of year again — so many things to do and so little time! As we move quickly through the holiday season, I’m going to try to keep a few things in mind, and I thought I’d share. If you have additional suggestions, please feel free to pass them along!...

When do CMs go after new technology? Primarily when they’ve had several good years under their belt. But once new equipment has proven to be much better than what it replaces, it continues to sell even in slower economies. This is illustrated by the apparent inflection point midway through...

As we head towards Christmas and a well-earned break for everyone, we take the opportunity to reflect on all of the hard work that everyone has done in 2019 and thank our Spida customers and staff for all of their wonderful support in the last year. Square 1 Transition to Spida USA While...

The 38th annual Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) took place in late October at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in downtown Columbus, Ohio. More than 1,700 people attended this year’s convention, which showcased 124 exhibitors with the theme of “Set Your...

Last month’s article, “Investment in Employee Training, Not Just Equipment,” produced a lot of good responses from many readers. Now it is time to offer real solutions to help your company improve productivity and reduce costly errors for your sales team and also all of the...

Recently, I was asked to divert from my normal 3rd party agenda to make a special truss inspection. Although this seemed a little unusual, on occasion I am asked to do this sort of thing, so I didn’t pay it any mind. Normally, it’s a peculiar joint condition or a difficult plate...