Building Connections is a monthly digital magazine produced and published by the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Fairfield County. Inside you will find the latest association news, legislative updates, upcoming events, and featured articles about the industry.
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EXECUTIVE WELCOME LETTER
Our Fall Line-up Is FULL of Events!
Dear Members,
I hope you all enjoyed your summer and spent some time outside! We are very excited about fall and the return of HBRA events! On September 4th we have our annual Clambake; On September 16th we have our annual Golf Tournament and on September 25th we have a Young Professional Happy Hour. I hope to see you at one or all of these events!
For those of you that don’t know, we have launched a new Young Professionals Recruitment Program. For nonmembers aged 45 years and under, their first year dues is now only $75! Please let nonmembers you know of this great deal! We also have our next Young Professionals Committee Meet Up on September 25th. We are excited to get this committee going!
As you may have already seen, we rolled out a new website. This website is designed to market you and your business! In conjunction with that, we have been doing a social media push to promote your businesses on our new website. We are always looking for new content- If you are interested in a spotlight or want to write an article, please let me know. Be sure to keep our online membership directory in mind whenever you are looking for a business: www.buildfairfieldcounty.com/directory. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can do anything for you or your business: kerry@buildfairfieldcounty.com.
Kind Regards,
Kerry Brunn Executive Officer Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Fairfield County
“ The mission of the HBRA is to help promote, protect & improve the building industry in Fairfield County. Our association is dedicated to promoting, strengthening, and informing our local home building market and those who work within it to ensure that we areindependently and collectively - a viable economic engine of growth now and in the future. ”
Upcoming Events - Register
Weds. Sept. 4: Annual GMM & Clambake on the Water
Boca Oyster Bar in Steelpointe Harbor, Bridgeport | 6pm-9pm
Join us for dinner on the water-every attendee will enjoy a 1lb. Maine lobster, half chicken, plus sides, Italian ice, and drinks!
Mon. Sept. 16: Annual HBRA Golf Classic
Tashua Knolls Golf Course, Trumbull
Our biggest event of the year. Sponsorships, golf foursomes & individual, dinner-only, volunteer opportunities, and raffle prize donations all available!
Weds. Sept. 25: Young Professionals Happy Hour
Elicit Brewing Co., Fairfield | 4pm-6pm
Members & industry professionals age 45 & under are invited to join us for drinks, apps, and networking!
Tues. Oct. 15: Bowling Bash with the HBRA
Nutmeg Bowl, Fairfield | 6pm-8:30pm
Our bowling bash is back! Sponsorships and bowler registration now available!
Tues. Oct. 22: Building Science Training
New Canaan Nature Center | 9am-11am
Presented by Northeast. Ben Bogie will go over “high performance building assemblies.”
2024 OFFICERS
Immediate Past President John Hertz Hertz Construction Inc.
President: Rob Michaud Michaud Development Group
Senior VP: Brian Kurtz Interstate + Lakeland Lumber
VP & Treasurer: Chris Shea Domus Constructors, LLC
Lisa Heldwhite Breakwater Renovation & Design, LLC
George Knapp Tooher-Ferraris Insurance Group
Tori McBrien McBrien Interiors
Bepin Mgushi Fixitup Building and Remodeling
Kevin Polcer Polcer Home, LLC
George Pusser Cornerstone Contracting
Stephanie Rapp Stephanie Rapp Interiors, LLC
LIFE DIRECTORS
Joanne Carroll JMC Resources
Anthony DeRosa DeRosa Builders
Kim DiMatteo Cross Insurance
Jerry Effren
The Greyrock Companies
Gary Fanali City Carting
Peter Fusaro Preferred Builders
Michael Palumbo ERI Building & Design
Peter Gaboriault
Bear Paw Builders
Chris Steiner Steiner, Inc.
Clambake on the Water
September 4, 2024 | 6pm-9pm | Boca Oyster Bar
Steelpointe Harbor: 10 East Main Street, Bridgeport
Join the HBRA for our annual Clambake on the Water at the beautiful Boca Oyster Bar.
Every attendee will enjoy a 1 pound Maine lobster, half chicken, clams, mussels, salad, red potatoes, and corn on the cob, plus Italian ice for dessert!
Two drink tickets included, cash bar thereafter.
Boca Oyster Bar is a half mile / approximately 12 minute walk from the Bridgeport Metro-North Train Station.
HBRA Members: $160 | General Admission: $170
Week of Event Price Increase:
HBRA Members: $170 | Gen. Admission: $180
Sponsorships Available!
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
Membership Recruitment Program
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a r e a l s o e l i g i b l e t o j o i n o u r Y o u n g P r o f e s s i o n a l s
C o m m i t t e e , d e d i c a t e d t o f o s t e r i n g n e t w o r k i n g ,
g r o w t h a n d m e n t o r s h i p t o o u r i n d u s t r y
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E m a i l u s t o j o i n : h b r a @ b u i l d f a i r f i e l d c o u n t y . c o m
Presenting Sponsor - $2000
- Listed as presenting sponsor with logo on banner at event
- Listed as presenting sponsor with logo on all marketing materials
- 3 tickets to the event
- 1 minute to speak at the event
- Tagged in social media post
- Full page Ad in Building Connections E-Magazine for September
Dinner Sponsor - $1500
- Premium signage at the food table
- Logo on cocktail napkins
- Logo on sponsor banner at event and all marketing materials
- 2 tickets to the event
- Tagged in social media post
- Full page Ad in Building Connections E-Magazine for September
Event Sponsor - $350
- Premium signage at the bar
- Logo on drink tickets
- Logo on sponsor banner at event and all marketing materials
- 2 tickets to the event
- Tagged in social media post
- Full page Ad in Building Connections EMagazine for September
- Logo on sponsor banner at event and all marketing materials
- 1 ticket to the event
- Tagged in social media post
- Full page Ad in Building Connections EMagazine for September
Membership Raffle - $460
Includes signage at the event & have a member of your team draw the winning raffle ticket to announce the winner!
Staring.
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Learn more
Join us for our biggest event of
Sept. 16 | Tashua Knolls Golf Course, Trumbull Register now to receive early bird pricing for the 18 and 9 hole tournaments! We also have sponsorship opportunities available. Click below for more information. A portion of all proceeds will go to support the HBRA’s Partnership with the Circle of Care. CLICK HERE to learn more.
Golfers: 18 & 9 Hole Tournaments
18 Hole: 10am Shotgun Start - SOLD OUT
Early Bird Pricing: $1000 / foursome or $250 / golfer Increase after Aug. 16: $1100 / foursome or $275 / golfer
9 Hole: 1pm Shotgun Start - SELLING FAST!
Early Bird Pricing: $500 / foursome or $125 / golfer Increase after Aug. 16: $600 / foursome or $150 / golfer
All golfers receive on-course lunch and dinner.
Dinner-Only
Network with industry friends, participate in our raffle with awesome prizes, and then see who wins the awards! This year dinner will be back inside, featuring open bar, passed apps, and pasta stations!
Sponsorships Available!
Opportunities are available for every budget. This event sells out, so book your sponsorship today!
We are also accepting raffle prize donations.
INSULATED CONCRETE FORMS
Shaping the Future of Construction
Leigh Overland Architect specializes in Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) Design. They are revolutionizing the way we build structures, offering a host of benefits that make them a compelling choice for the future of construction, any style or size building. Let’s delve into why ICFs are changing the game.
Enhanced Comfort and Energy Efficiency
ICFs elevate home comfort by providing superior insulation. Unlike traditional wooden frames or steel reinforcements, ICFs use hollow foam blocks or panels that interlock to create a mold for pouring concrete. The resulting walls are sturdy and wellinsulated, keeping indoor temperatures stable and reducing energy consumption.
Predictable Costs
Builders appreciate the predictability that ICFs bring to construction budgets. Unlike the volatile lumber market, where prices can fluctuate wildly, ready-mix concrete and ICFs have weathered economic crises more steadily. With ICFs, you can estimate costs more accurately and avoid unexpected budget surprises.
Disaster Resilience
ICFs offer excellent disaster resilience. Their solid construction withstands extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods. The combination of reinforced concrete and insulation provides a robust envelope that protects occupants and their belongings.
Reduced Labor and Trades
ICFs streamline the building process. When using ICFs, builders get several essential steps in one package:
1. Concrete: The ICFs serve as the formwork for pouring concrete.
2. Steel Reinforcement: The foam block integrates steel rebar for exceptional strength.
3. Insulation: ICFs provide built-in insulation.
4. Air Barrier: The interlocking design minimizes air infiltration.
6. Furring Strips: built in ready for exterior siding and interior Gypsum board.
This bundling of steps reduces labor requirements and the number of trades working on-site. Framers can easily set up ICFs, making the construction process more efficient.
Meeting Net-Zero Requirements
As sustainability becomes a priority, ICFs play a crucial role. Their unmatched insulation properties align with net-zero energy goals. In cold climates, ICFs help meet stringent energy efficiency requirements, making them an ideal choice for environmentally conscious builders.
Conclusion
Insulated Concrete Forms are more than just a mold for concrete; they represent a paradigm shift in construction. With benefits ranging from energy efficiency to disaster resilience, ICFs are shaping the buildings of the future. As we strive for sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective structures, ICFs will continue to play a pivotal role in transforming the industry.
Remember, the future of construction lies in innovation, and ICFs are leading the way!
Contact Leigh Overland Architect to learn more about the other products leading the way!
• ICF exterior walls, (cost less and are Fire/storm proof and are highly efficient, healthier, sustainable and safer than traditional wood construction.)
• SIP roofs (no roof rafters),
• Metal stud interior walls and floors (factory made, delivered and set up in a few days per floor.)
• In-floor radiant heat AND cooling (eliminates ductwork and contaminants)
• Triple pane European doors and windows (Cost less than most standard windows).
• With solar panels, (these homes can be net zero). Without they save about 50% on energy.
Check out the couple of minute video below of my ICF home/office, and if you would like a tour let me know.
If you’re looking for an expert architect to design your new, energy-efficient home or office building, visit www.ldoverland.com
Follow Leigh Overland Architect on social media:
HBRA YOUNG PROFESSIONALS HAPPY HOUR MEET-UP
Are you an HBRA Member under age 45? Join us for happy hour networking with the Young Professionals Committee!
$ 4 5 p e r p e r s o n Includes delicious apps & two drink tickets (cash bar thereafter). C L I C K H E R E T O R E G I S T E R E W E D S . S E P T . 2 5 4 p m - 6 p m S p o n s o r s h i p A v
E L I C I T B R E W I N G C O . 1 1 1 B l a c k R o c k T u r n p i k e F a i r f i e l d , C T 0 6 8 2 5
School TECHNOLOGY Back To
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BOWLING BASH
Oct. 15, 2024
Nutmeg Bowl
Fairfield, CT
6pm-8:30pm
Bowling Bites
Sponsor: $750
Official dinner sponsor!
- Logo on napkins
- Logo on screens at each lane
- Logo on eblast & registration page
- 12 raffle tickets
- Team of 6 bowlers with shoe rental
- Food and 2 pitchers of beer for your team
Dessert Sponsor: $425 - 1 available
Sponsor delicious cookies to enjoy after the tournament!
Signage at dessert table | Logo on eblast & registration page | 1 ticket for a company rep to bowl & then hand out cookies to the teams
Awards Sponsor: $300 - 1 available
Logo on award certificates | Signage at the event
Logo on eblast & registration page 1 ticket for a company rep to bowl & then hand out awards to the winners
Event Sponsor: $250
Logo on eblast & registration page | Signage at the event
1 solo bowler ticket
Lane Sponsor: $375
Team of 6 with shoes & reserved lane for 2 games
Food & 2 pitchers of beer
6 raffle tickets
Company name on eblast & registration page
Solo Bowler: $50 / Team of 6: $300
- 2 games of bowling with shoe rental (solo bowlers will be matched with other guests)
- 1 raffle ticket per guest
Raffle Prize Donation
Donate a raffle prize & draw the winning ticket! Includes signage at the event.
Company name on TV screen at lane
- Food & 2 pitchers of beer for your lane
Geoff Knapp, Construction Insurance & Risk Management Specialist at Tooher-Ferraris Insurance, provides some insight into tips for your company vehicle drivers.
COMBAT Distracted Driving:
Top Tips for Company Vehicle Drivers
Navigating a company vehicle, be it a sleek car, spacious van, hefty truck, or bustling bus, demands your full focus and a pledge to drive safely—especially when it comes to steering clear of distractions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's stark data reveals the truth: nearly 400,000 injuries and 3,000 deaths each year are linked to distracted driving. So, it's not just wise to stay alert and dodge distractions— it's vital.
Spotting Distractions and Dodging Them
Distracted driving sneaks up in many guises—visual, manual, cognitive, and auditory:
• Visual distractions snatch your eyes off the road, like peeking at texts, checking maps or GPS, or rubbernecking at roadside scenes.
• Manual distractions mean hands off the wheel for anything, from texting, twiddling the radio, snacking, to fixing your hair.
• Cognitive distractions happen when your mind wanders away from driving, maybe you're deep in chat or drifting into daydreams.
• Auditory distractions are noises that disrupt your focus, like blasting tunes or chatting on the phone.
Steps to Stay Focused
Boost your safety behind the wheel with these tactics:
• Lock up your phone: Silence it and stash it away to avoid peeks.
• Prep your route: Punch in your destination before you hit the road to avoid mid-trip fiddling with your GPS.
• Handle your tunes wisely: Pick your playlist or station in advance and keep the volume to a nondistracting level.
• Leverage tech for safety: Utilize hands-free gadgets, voice commands, and other tech in your vehicle aimed at keeping you safe.
• Single-tasking is key: Eating, primping, or any other side activities while driving is a no-go. Eyes on the road: Keep chatter light, distractions at bay, and your focus forward.
• Rule following is a must: Stick to all workplace, local, state, and federal rules about distracted driving.
Wrap-Up
The risks associated with distracted driving are significant and immediate. By identifying distractions and actively seeking to reduce them, we significantly increase our chances of decreasing accidents. Business owners and supervisors are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring employees fully commit to these practices to optimally prevent accidents.
Are you a builder wanting to protect your profits? I specialize in safeguarding builders' financial well-being. Contact Geoff today! Phone: 203-665-6614 | Email: gknapp@toofer.com
Follow Geoff Knapp from Tooher-Ferraris Insurance on social media:
NEW MEMBERS
Andre Architecture | Andre Gomez
Andre Architecture is a full-service architecture and interior design firm serving commercial and residential clients. Our process, founded in environmental design and planning, is orchestrated with extraordinary attention to vision and detail. Read More
Apollo Electric CT | Joe DellaCava
Apollo Electric is a fully licensed, electrical contracting company that specializes in High-End, Single Family Residential and Commercial (including but not limited to Office Space, Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Multifamily) properties. We also have a Service Division that is available to help with any electrical issues. Read More
Casa Tua, LLC | Luigi Ghilardi
Casa Tua is a Greenwich, CT-based, full-service Home Builder dedicated to crafting personalized residential and boutique commercial spaces that align with your unique desires. Read More
Divine Organizing | Bridget Flynn
Divine Organizing provides luxury home organizing and moving management services to Fairfield and Westchester counties, and NYC. From decluttering and downsizing the family home to creating a drool-worthy closet or an empowering, on-brand home office, we transform homes through beauty and systems. Read More
Echo Construction, LLC | Ricardo Mejia
Building Dreams, Crafting Legacies. | Commercial & Residential Construction | FamilyOwned & Operated | Transforming Spaces, Creating Stories Read More
HomeSquarePro | Thomas Liu
As a HomeSquarePro Client, your part of a family. A family of experts who are here to help you with any home or commercial project, no matter the size or complexity. Before you start your next project, call us first. We are here to help. Read More
ProSource of Milford | Adelino Gomes
Join the residences and commercial spaces that have improved and flourished with the personal and professional touch of ProSource. Here, you will find the products you need to make any space bright and beautiful. Both trade professionals and homeowners know us as their one-stop shop. Read More
Steven Winter Associates Inc. | Steve Klocke
Steven Winter Associates, Inc. provides research, consulting and advisory services to improve commercial, residential and multifamily built environments for private and public sector clients. We specialize in energy, sustainability and accessibility consulting as well as certification, research & development and compliance services. Read More
NEW MEMBERS
U.S. Bank - Ridgefield | Dave Stambone
No matter where you are in the home buying process, I can help. As a mortgage sales supervisor right here in Ridgefield, I work with you to help you find the right mortgage for your unique situation. I'm proud to work for a reputable bank like U.S. Bank, and you can trust me to do what's right for you. Read More
UMI Stone | Andrea Gundogdu
For over two decades, UMI’s mission has been to source the finest stone surfaces from around the globe. Our commitment to excellence has established us as a premier distributor for our curated selection of natural stone, quartz, porcelain, specialty slabs, and sinks. Read More
ORNARE | Dominika Janiuk AFFILIATES (CONTINUED)
JOB BANK
AVAILABLE JOBS:
These opportunities are offered by the HBRA members listed in the specific advertisement. Please do not contact the HBRA regarding these listings.
Visual Comfort & Co.
JOB TITLE: Sales Associate
SUMMARY: In this role you will interact directly with our trade and consumer clients to provide an exceptional customer experience including: driving sales to meet and exceed sales goals, new business development and account management, & showroom operations.
CONTACT: Click here to apply or Email detailed resume to dkelly@visualcomfort.com
SONERICA Capital
JOB TITLE: New Home Builder
SUMMARY: Investor with large land inventory looking for highly experienced New Home Builder. You will be a paid consultant. Your main role is to prepare specs and inspect work. Must have built numerous homes. Intimate hands on experience in all facets of home building including foundation, framing, roofing, siding, sheetrock, interior and exterior trim, floors, HVAC, plumbing, electric, costs, scheduling etc.
CONTACT: Email detailed resume to hbsj7@yahoo.com
Accurate Lock And Hardware
JOB TITLE: Customer Solutions Specialist
SUMMARY: In this role, you will communicate with customers via phone and email, help determine their requirements, process purchase orders, provide quotations, check on order status and expedite orders. You will be part of a team that provides customer service and support for a wide array of products to a network of showroom and contract hardware distributors, OEM accounts, architects, designers and specifiers.
SALES SHEET
GO BEYOND.
A subflooring panel with a built-in barrier for jobsite durability.
AdvanTech X-Factor panels are the latest innovation from the subflooring brand builders have trusted for more than 20 years for the FLAT OUT BEST™ start to a quiet, stiff floor. AdvanTech X-Factor is a new class of premium subflooring with a fade-resistant, watershedding surface on a high-performance engineered wood panel. With a built-in protective top layer, it takes the moisture resistance teams expect from an AdvanTech panel to the next level and pairs well with AdvanTech™ subfloor adhesive for a Squeak-Free Guarantee™1
The built-in, water-shedding top layer provides a distinctively smooth, even, premium subfloor surface that is marker friendly and easy to clean.
AdvanTech X-Factor Panels
JOB BANK
AVAILABLE JOBS: (Continued)
Bear Paw Builders Inc.
JOB TITLE: Part Time Bookkeeper | Salary: $30-$35 per hour
SUMMARY: Experienced bookkeeper experienced in construction job costing with QuickBooks.
CONTACT: peter@bpaw.com
Chloe Winston Lighting Design
JOB TITLE: Showroom Coordinator
RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist with showroom opening and closing duties, answer phones and make customer appointments, greet customers in showroom and make them feel welcomed, receive deliveries and help with in-store merchandise pick-ups, liaise with showroom, manufacturers, and designers, architects, builders and retail customers, and support sales team.
Email resume to hello@chloewinstonlighting.com
Lansing Building Products, LLC
JOB TITLE: Outside Sales - Norwalk, CT (lever.co)
SUMMARY: Full time - secures new business while building and maintaining relationships with customers.
CONTACT: (203) 831-0977 or george.harvey@lansingbp.com
Studio KC LLC
JOB TITLE: Jr Designer/Project Manager
SUMMARY: Studio KC is an emerging high end interior design firm located in Norwalk specializing in full home renovations, kitchens, baths and custom millwork. We are looking for a Junior Designer/Project Manager to join our tight knit team. Our office is a fun, fast paced environment where collaboration and mutual support are encouraged.
Membership Discounts & Deals
Log in at www.nahb.org
Through agreements with more than 20 national companies, NAHB offers exclusive discounts on a variety of products and services that can benefit your business, employees and family. Members save big when they take advantage of these offers.
Steps to Access NAHB Discounts:
Please Note: Your nahb.org login is separate from your buildfairfieldcounty.com login.
If you do not have an NAHB account, select “Register” on the right side of the screen.
You will need the PIN you received when you first joined the HBRA – find yours by logging in to your account at buildfairfieldcounty.com, or contact the HBRA office and we would be happy to let you know!
After you log in, go to www.nahb.org/NAHB-Community/Member-Benefits/Savings Click on “Learn More” under the discount you want to use and follow the instructions.
See the NAHB "Member Savings Program at a Glance" handout for a full list of available discounts!
Steps to Access NPP Discounts:
Through the HBRA of Fairfield County’s partnership with NPP you can save on products for your business and employees. Membership is free. Visit www.mynpp.com/association/hbra-of-fairfieldcounty/
If you already have an account, select “Log In” at the top right to log in. If you do not currently have an NPP account, enter your information on the form on the right and follow the website prompts to create an account. Click on the discount you would like to sign up for and follow the instructions.
See the NPP handout for a full list of available discounts!
For a full list of all
The 2024 Energy Code Features More Flexibility for Builders
The International Code Council (ICC) published the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) on Aug. 14. The IECC is a model code that sets minimum requirements for energy efficiency for residential and commercial buildings. It is the most adopted energy code in the country and is recognized as the national model energy code for low-rise residential buildings in federal law.
ICC publishes a new edition every three years for states and municipalities to adopt, amend and enforce in their jurisdictions. The residential provisions of the IECC also provide the basis for International Residential Code (IRC) Chapter 11 Energy Efficiency. Read-only versions of the 2024 IECC and the 2024 IRC Chapter 11 are available online for free, and full access versions are available for ICC Digital Codes subscribers. PDF downloads and physical codebooks will be available soon in the ICC online store.
Read More
Summer Housing Slowdown Continues
High interest rates for construction and development loans as well as ongoing challenges regarding labor shortages and higher prices for many building materials continued to slow the building market this summer. Overall housing starts decreased 6.8% in July to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.24 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.
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NAHB Collaboration Spotlights Challenges, Opportunities for Housing Growth
Following the release of the Housing Supply Accelerator Playbook in June 2024, NAHB Chairman Carl Harris and American Planning Association (APA) Director of Public Affairs Emily Pasi recently sat down to discuss NAHB’s role as a core partner in the Housing Supply Accelerator, as well as some of the barriers home builders face to building more housing nationwide, during the latest episode of APA’s Housing Supply Accelerator podcast series.
“We are at a crisis,” Harris shared. “So with everybody recognizing that we’re in a crisis, not only in home production, but in housing attainability, then we all need to come together because each one of us has a piece of the solution, and we need to come together to make that happen.”
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Builder Confidence Moves Lower as Market Waits for Rate Cuts
A lack of affordability and buyer hesitation stemming from elevated interest rates and high home prices contributed to a decline in builder sentiment in August.
Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes was 39 in August, down two points from a downwardly revised reading of 41 in July, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/ Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today. This is the lowest reading since December 2023.
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Check Out Top 2025 IBS Pre-show Learning Opportunities
The International Builders’ Show — the premier tradeshow for the residential construction industry — offers industry professionals the chance to network with 67,000+ attendees from more than 100 countries and visit 1,400+ manufacturers and suppliers on the show floor. It also includes opportunities to access to 100+ IBS education sessions through the Expo+Education Pass.
As registration opening draws near for the 2025 IBS, taking place Feb. 25-27 in Las Vegas, here are additional opportunities to expand your learning through pre-show symposiums and courses.
Pre-Show Symposiums
Building Science Symposium: The annual national tour will host its 2025 kickoff event with fresh insights for high-performance construction and design. Whether you’re a builder, remodeler, tradesperson, architect or supplier, this popular pre-show learning opportunity offers industry-leading ideas and strategies, from understanding standards and integrating performance components to providing durable, energy-efficient enclosures.
Custom Building & Remodeling Symposium (new for 2025 IBS): Discover innovative, bold and dynamic business management insights for custom builders and remodelers that focus on forward-looking, innovative strategies for accelerating the growth of your business and future-proofing your profits. Uncover innovations in building products and techniques, technology advancements for project management, design and sales, strategies for differentiating your business from competitors, new markets to explore, a custom building and remodeling market outlook and more.
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CONNECTICUT LIGHTING CENTERS
X Design Consultation including on-site walk-throughs and Recessed lighting layouts
X Large offering and inventory of integrated LED Recessed Lighting
X Indoor and Outdoor Lighting for all applications
X Door, Cabinet & Bath Hardware
X Motorized & Manual Window Shades
X Lutron Lighting Controls Standard Wallbox to HomeWorks
X Bath Ventilation Fans
X Builder programs
Share of Wood-Framed Homes Dips in 2023
Wood framing remains the most dominant construction method for completed single-family homes in the U.S., according to NAHB analysis of 2023 Census Bureau data. For 2023 completions, 93% of new homes were wood-framed, another 7% were concreteframed homes, and less than half a percent were steel-framed. On a count basis, there were 930,000 wood-framed homes completed in 2023. This was a 3% decrease compared to the 2022 total. The wood-framed market share decreased to 93% in 2023, after it increased for three consecutive years from 2019 (90%) to 2022 (94%). As noted above, steel-framed homes are relatively uncommon, with 3,000 housing completions in 2023, the same amount as the 2021 and 2022 completions.
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NAHB Advocacy Efforts Highlighted in Monthly Update
NAHB Advocacy Efforts
Highlighted in Monthly Update. Some highlights for August include issue updates and talking points related to: An analysis of mortgage rates, inflation and single-family construction forecasts from NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz & Insights on how soaring prices for building materials impact housing.
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Entitlements
Master Planning
Scheduling
Contractor
Join the Fight to Rescind Energy Code That Harms Housing Affordability
NAHB is calling on all our members to contact their members of Congress and tell them to support H.J. Res 170, a resolution that will stop the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) from adopting the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code. (IECC).
The Issue: A recent decision by HUD and the USDA that requires them to insure mortgages for new single-family homes only if they are built to the 2021 IECC and HUD-financed multifamily housing be built to 2021 IECC or ASHRAE 90.1-2019, is making it much harder for home builders and multifamily developers to build housing that is attainable and affordable for American families. Why it Matters: According to Home Innovation Research Labs, compliance with the 2021 IECC can add $22,572 to the price of a new home, but in practice, home builders have estimated increased costs of up to $31,000.
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How Soaring Prices for Building Materials Impact Housing
Prices of materials used in residential construction have been flat or even declined in some cases, providing welcome relief to home builders. But overall, prices of building materials are still far above their pre-pandemic levels, and the impact of those elevated prices can be seen in unexpected places.
Read More
Be Unstoppable with Help from UPS®
The world moves fast – and your NAHB UPS® Savings Program has the tools you need to help your small business move even faster. We’re here to help you push envelopes and ride the edge of what’s possible. We’ll be right by your side with everything you need to keep blazing forward. Let UPS® help make your business unstoppable. Members enjoy the following savings every time you ship:
• 50% off Domestic Next Day / Deferred
• 30% off Ground Commercial / Residential
• 50% off International Exports & 40% off Imports
• Up to 50% off on additional services.
• Plus, UPS Smart Pickup® service is free.
Don’t Let Shipping Mishaps Slow You Down
A lot can go wrong in shipping – package loss, breakage, porch piracy theft. The good news is that you can mitigate the financial impact of some shipping mishaps with InsureShield® shipping coverage. Through your NAHB UPS® Savings Program, you have access to insurance that can help keep your business moving despite the everyday risks of shipping. All you have to do is enter the value of the goods in the declared value* field of your UPS® approved shipping system and you are on your way to better shipping experiences.
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Share of Homes Built on Slabs Surges
The majority of new single-family homes started in 2023 were built on slab foundations, according to NAHB analysis of the Survey of Construction (SOC). The share of new homes built on slabs has risen steadily from 45.8% in 2000 to 72.4% in 2023. The largest increase occurred from 2022 to 2023, with a jump of 3.9 percentage points, compared to an average increase of 1.93 percentage points over the previous five years. Conversely, the share of homes with full or partial basements decreased by 3 percentage points from 19.6% in 2022 to 16.6% 2023. Only 9.9% of new single-family homes were built with crawl spaces.
In colder areas where building codes require foundations to be built below the frost line, most homes are constructed with full or partial basements. In the northern divisions, full or partial basement foundations provide additional finished floor areas at a marginal increase of construction cost. The divisions with a majority share of full or partial basements in new homes are West North Central (63.9%), followed by New England (62.1%), Middle Atlantic (48.1%) and East North Central (48%).
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New Home Sales Fall to a Seven-Month Low in June
New home sales fell to the lowest level since November 2023, as elevated mortgage rates continued to keep buyers on hold. Sales of newly built, single-family homes in June fell 0.6% to a 617,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from a slight upwardly revised reading in May, according to newly released data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. The pace of new home sales in June is down 7.4% from a year earlier.
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“Gatehouse Partners has been advertising with New England Home Connecticut since 2017, which has been instrumental in helping to get our brand in front of our target audience: homeowners, architects, and interior designers. Working with the New England Home Connecticut team feels closer to a supportive friendship than a business agreement. We highly recommend them (and their networking events) to everyone in the home industry!”
KRISTEN SULLIVAN, GATEHOUSE PARTNERS
What Is the Most Common Siding Material for Single-Family Homes?
According to the annual data from the Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction (SOC), stucco was the most common principal siding material (26.8%) for new single-family homes started in 2023. Other common materials include:
• Vinyl siding (25.6%),
• Fiber cement siding (21.7%), and
• Brick or brick veneer (18.5%).
Small shares of single-family homes started last year had wood or wood products (5.1%) and stone, rock or other stone materials (1.2%) as the principal exterior wall material. Since NAHB began tracking this data in 2000, the strongest trend has been the growing popularity in fiber cement siding. The share of fiber cement siding has increased by five percentage points in the last 10 years and is up by 14.2 percentage points in the past 20 years.
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Residential Building Wages See Fastest Growth in More Than Five Years
Residential building workers’ wage growth accelerated to 9.0% in June. This marks the fastest yearover-year (YOY) growth rate since December 2018. After a 0.3% increase in June 2023, the YOY growth rate for residential building worker wages have been trending upward over the past year.
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Innovative Options and Designs to Complement Your Home
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For more information, please contact Sabina Mortillaro 631-219-9258 or smortillaro@pellactny.com
Home Sizes: Demand vs. Supply
The share of new single-family homes built in the 1,600-3,000 square-foot range track closely with the share of buyers who want homes of that size, according to recent surveys from NAHB and the U.S. Census Bureau.
The surveys show that 21% of buyers want homes with 1,600 to 1,999 square feet, and 22% of new single-family homes started in 2023 have that much floor space.
In the next tier up, 38% of buyers want homes with 2,000 to 2,999 square feet, and 40% of new single-family homes fall within that size range.
Results on the square footage buyers want in their next home were published in the 2024 edition of What Home Buyers Really Want, based on a representative sample of 3,008 recent and prospective home buyers in 2023. The size of homes started comes from NAHB tabulation of the recently released 2023 data file from the Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction.
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US Inflation Broadly Cools, Likely Sealing Deal for Fed Rate Cut
US inflation cooled broadly in June to the slowest pace since 2021 on the back of a long-awaited slowdown in housing costs, sending the strongest signal yet that the Federal Reserve can cut interest rates soon.
The so-called core consumer price index — which excludes food and energy costs — climbed 0.1% from May, the smallest advance in three years, Bureau of Labor Statistics figures showed Thursday.
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Lowest Homeownership Rate for Younger Householders in Four Years
The U.S. homeownership rate was 65.6% in the second quarter of 2024, unchanged from the first quarter of 2024, according to the Census’s Housing Vacancies and Homeownership Survey (HVS). However, this marks the lowest rate in the last two years. The homeownership rate is below the 25-year average rate of 66.4%, due to a multidecade low for housing affordability conditions.
The homeownership rate for the head of households (householders) under the age of 35 decreased to 37.4% in the second quarter of 2024, the lowest level in four years. Amidst elevated mortgage interest rates and tight housing supply, affordability is declining for first-time homebuyers. This age group, who are particularly sensitive to mortgage rates, home prices, and the inventory of entry-level homes, saw the largest decline among all age categories..
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RING’S END
Since 1902
| 800 · 390 · 1000
Bethel | Branford | Danbury
Darien | Fairfield | Lewisboro | Madison New Milford | Newtown | Niantic North Stamford | Norwalk | Orange Stamford | Stratford | Trumbull Westport | Wethersfield | Wilton
JOIN THE RING’S END TEAM!
Do you have a positive attitude that contributes to a high company morale? Are you goal-oriented and self-motivated? Can you connect with our customers and build strong relationships? Are you an effective communicator? Do you present yourself professionally? If so, you may be a perfect candidate for a career at Ring’s End!
Ring’s End is a Connecticut-based lumber and building materials retailer serving Connecticut, South County, Rhode Island, and Southern Westchester County, New York. We are a thirdgeneration, family owned and operated business with a rich history dating back to 1902. With 20 retail locations, Ring’s End continues to expand and evolve as an industry leader.
The positions at Ring’s End are as diverse as the employees who hold them. Discover your passionjoin the Ring’s End team today!
Strategic Vision
To be the premier resource in the building supply industry.
Mission Statement
To provide the very best products, industry knowledge, customer service, and shopping experience. We do this by employing the best team in the industry, ensuring we maintain a diverse, evolved work environment that values cooperation and teamwork. We look for innovation and continuous improvement in everything we do.
Our Values
• Integrity
• Passion
• Pride
• Accountability
• Community
Work Environment & Commitment to Safety
• Total commitment to safety and teamwork
• Zero tolerance for any form of discrimination or harassment
• On-the-job training/certifications Compensation
• Weekly pay
• Direct deposit & electronic pay stubs (paperless)
• Competitive wages and overtime compensation
• Profit sharing
• Discretionary bonus program
Benefits
• Medical plans including HMO, POS, and HDHP (with HSA)
• Section 125 Flexible Spending Account & Dependent Care Accounts
• Employee Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
• Long & Short Term Disability
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Workplace flexibility
• Education Assistance Program
• Employee Wellness Program
• Legal Consultation Program
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