Estimating & Bidding: Is It Art or Science?
We are in very good company when it comes to this seemingly eternal question of “art or science.” It is often asked about such wide-ranging fields as bookkeeping, hair dressing, computer programming, teaching, photography, yes, even the medical sciences, just to name a few. And for good reason: You can’t be faulted for […]
Code Interpretations
I have encountered a problem with a local building official and his interpretation of ASTM C1063 and the requirements for the installation of casing beads. The official says that we have to install metal casing beads in every location where there is a change in material. He also has stated that we need to install […]
Welcome to My World, Part 2
Last month, we left you in the predicament of having to hire an estimator (gasp!). We explored the different circumstances that may have brought you to this lowly state of managerial angst, and we suggested what you might ponder in terms of the qualifications you will require of your estimator candidate. We also proposed the […]
Construction Trends
ABC Applauds Introduction of Green Jobs Improvement Act Associated Builders and Contractors voiced its strong support for the “Green Jobs Improvement Act” (H.R. 6220), introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. John Kline (R-Minn.) June 11, 2008. The legislation would expand a provision in the “Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007” […]
AWCI on the Job
Green Building Is the Subject of the Next Foundation White Paper Green building is the subject of the new white paper in the Research Series of the Foundation of the Wall and Ceiling Industry. The publication, Green Building: Understanding, Bidding and Building Green, is available to all AWCI members as of this month and […]
30 Years of Experience
Please allow me this time to introduce myself as I will be filling this column space for the next year as president of the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry. As I noted in my introduction speech at AWCI’s convention in Las Vegas this past March, for good or bad, I have […]
Side Jobs
For quite some time, you’ve been helping one of your best employees with his small side jobs by selling supplies to him at cost and letting him borrow needed tools and equipment. But lately it seems that the side jobs are getting bigger, and you’re starting to lose money. You suspect he also may be […]
Sun Protection: A New PPE
When someone in the construction industry is asked to name some examples of personal protective equipment, the basics are usually covered. The list usually includes things like a hard hat, safety goggles, hearing protection, gloves and steel tipped shoes or boots. As the temperatures increase with days that are longer and sunnier, […]
A View from the Other Side
What keeps the subcontractor up at night? You probably have your own answer, but truth be told, you could probably multiply it by a factor of five and arrive at what keeps the general contractor up at night. Consider this: What wins the bid is a team. It is a team […]