Cladding acts as a vital layer that shields the framework like a windbreaker to maintain energy efficiency through better insulation and protect against weather conditions with durable materials. Different types of cladding suit different needs based on geographic location and aesthetic preference, but some common applications of materials are metal, wood and vinyl cladding. Depending on climate, budget or maintenance goals, using the right cladding can ensure a build or remodel retains lasting value long after the project is complete. Read More
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Homes Charred to Rubble in LA Fires Are Given New Life Through Recycling
In the wake of the devastating January fires in Los Angeles, the Army Corps of Engineers began operations to recycle from fire-damaged homes. Materials like steel, concrete and trees are rescued from the debris and put to work in the recycling process. Reducing the extraction of new raw materials for this project, reusing current available resources and lowering waste going into landfills helps industries rebuild without costly reliance on new materials starting from scratch. According to Insurance Journal, “A lot of this material can be reused in future construction, and…
Read MoreTariffs Expected to Increase Costs of Building New Homes in the U.S.
New tariffs on imported construction materials are expected to raise the cost of building a typical single-family home by thousands of dollars, according to an NBC News analysis. Materials such as lumber from Canada and appliances from China could contribute to a $4,000 to $10,900 increase, depending on estimates. Industry experts say the uncertainty around material costs is making it more difficult for builders to price homes amid an ongoing housing shortage. According to Robert Dietz, chief economist at the National Association of Home Builders, “About three-quarters of home builders…
Read MoreConstruction Choices That Stand the Test of Time
Future-proof construction ensures low-maintenance, climate-resilient homes by prioritizing durable materials and flexible design to create homes that adapt to evolving needs and environmental demands. Projects feature sustainable materials like hempcrete, modular layouts, energy-efficient systems and long-lasting finishes such as metal roofing and luxury vinyl plank. With integrated smart infrastructure and resilient construction methods, these homes are built to remain functional and stylish while enduring for decades. Read More
Read MoreHome Depot acquires billions in the building supply business
Home Depot is acquiring specialty building products distributor GMS for $4.3 billion in equity, as part of its ongoing strategy to expand in the professional building materials sector. This follows its $18 billion purchase of SRS Distribution last year, further strengthening its ability to serve residential and commercial contractors. The deal positions Home Depot to compete more aggressively by creating a massive supply network with over 1,200 locations and 8,000 delivery trucks. Read More
Read MoreFive ways to prevent budget overruns in construction projects
Budget overruns in construction often stem from inaccurate estimates due to outdated or overly optimistic assumptions about labor, materials, timelines and external factors like weather. Experts from Procore and Autodesk stress the importance of early risk assessments and thorough preconstruction planning to catch potential issues and build realistic contingency plans. Leveraging project management technology can help contractors identify problems sooner and make informed decisions to stay on track and avoid costly delays. Read More
Read MoreThree decisions that make or break a shower remodel
Bestbath emphasizes that successful shower remodels depend on decisions made early in the process, not just design choices. Homeowners should carefully consider shower system type (tile vs. pre-fab), drain placement and support for accessories like grab bars, as each impacts long-term performance, cost and ease of installation. Pre-fab systems offer a low-maintenance, durable solution that can help avoid common remodeling pitfalls. Read More
Read MoreFraming Lumber Prices
Lumber prices continued their decline for the 11th straight week, with the framing lumber composite price falling to $424 per 1,000 board feet—the lowest since October 2024. Although prices are down 4.1% over the past month, they remain 13.1% higher year-over-year. U.S. lumber availability also hit a low not seen since 2019, as both domestic production and imports, especially from Canada, decreased in the first quarter of 2025. Read More
Read More5 Home Renovation Projects That Are Most Tariff-Proof
These five remodeling projects are less affected by the rising costs of imported materials due to recent tariffs. They include updating kitchens and bathrooms, enhancing energy efficiency and improving curb appeal, as they often rely on domestically sourced materials or labor-intensive work. Allowing homeowners to focus on these areas to mitigate the impact of increased material costs and ensure their renovations remain within budget. Read More
Read MoreKitchen Remodel Flooring Ideas: 10 Stunning Trends for 2025
Popular 2025 options include durable choices like hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, tile and sustainable materials such as cork and bamboo. Designers emphasize the importance of selecting flooring that not only withstands wear and moisture but also complements open-concept layouts by ensuring seamless transitions between rooms. Read More
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