Houston Construction News September 2018

Covering the Industry’s News

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The Industry’s Newspaper www.constructionnews.net H (210) 308-5800 H Volume 16 H Number 9 H SEPTEMBER 2018

Fam-tastic legacy

Top o’ the world, Ma

L-R: The Quinones – Maria, Antonio, Sr., Amy and Antonio Jr. working in Hockley, TX.

L-R: grandson Ethan, son Randy, and dad Gary Reynolds, of Pinnacle Tile & Flooring.

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hen Antonino “Tony” Quinones Jr., a project manager at Stone River Excavation and Concrete, talks about his father and mother, Antonino Quinones Sr. and Maria “Luz” de la Luz, it’s like a love letter to great parenting. So it’s no surprise that Quinones Jr.’s dream excavation job would be one his father would enjoy.

“We’re both soccer enthusiasts, so I wouldn’t mind building soccer pitches.

That would be something very interesting,” Quinones Jr. says. “My dream job would be any 30-acre site, something large that has a bit of everything, that presents a challenge, that only my father could complete in a timely manner. He could really stamp his name on it and be recognized for it. I think he definitely deserves that.”

Quinones Jr. says he first learned construction from his father, beginning as a youngster riding on his dad’s excavator at job sites. Quinones Jr., who earned an Associates degree and construction management award in college, considered a civil engineering career but realized that he enjoyed working outdoors. He returned to his father’s side at another company, shovel in hand.

“Most of what I learned was on the job site, but my father taught me how to work and how the job is supposed to run,” Quinones Jr. says. “If I get to a tenth of the knowledge he has, I will be doing pretty well.”

Quinones Sr. had dreams of starting a business, and he and his wife invested continued on Page 14

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andy Reynolds got his start in the flooring business when he went to work at his father’s floor company back in 1988. Gary moved Reynolds Tile and Flooring to Houston in 1980. Randy worked part time for Gary in a wide variety of positions, eventually working his way up to vice president.

When Gary decided to retire and fold up shop in 2009, Randy and his wife decided to open their own company, birthing Pinnacle Tile & Flooring in 2010.

But dad couldn’t stay retired for long.

Gary now works for his son as the head of Pinnacle’s commercial division. At present, Pinnacle is currently working on some schools, a movie theater and several restaurants.

Reynolds said that Pinnacle has five

pillars in their mission statement: quality, integrity, partnership, reliability and value.

Reynolds has noticed that designers are trying to out-do each other with designs that no one else has done so that their project is unique. “There are some pretty crazy installations that architects like to throw at us that we get to deal with on a regular basis.” This can be challenging, he said, but, “We pride ourselves in being able to think outside the box” in order to generate the finished product the customer wanted.

This means that Pinnacle works closely with architects and designer, not the end user on most jobs. Having knowledgeable guys in the field to interface with contractors is key to keeping the continued on Page 14

Updating for the next generation

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hen the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District began planning a new elementary school to replace the existing outdated elementary school for an already population, they looked for a winning team to fulfill their vision.

Purcell Construction Inc. began operating in light commercial renovation projects in 1990. Experience and quality work quickly moved Larry and Paula Purcell’s company into the expansion of multi-million-dollar projects that evolved heavily toward the academic arena. With 90 percent of the firm’s business involved in school construction and various school district projects they teamed up perfectly with PBK Architects who has more than 37 years planning award-winning K-12 projects. This was the winning team Cypress-Fairbanks ISD was looking for.

Purcell Construction began breaking ground on Matzke Elementary in Jan.

2016. The 87,462sf new facility was completed within 22 months.

To house 1,440 students in grades Pre-K through 5th grade, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD looked to PBK to create a facility to feature innovative Next Generation design. Features throughout the school purposefully engage students to move around and interact with their learning environment and break away from the traditional instruction method. One prominent feature of the school is the recreated tradition of the Matzke friendship tree. Each year, students and staff add their thumbprint to the tree, symbolizing the ever-growing Matzke family.

The project was constructed of Nichiha panels, metal panels, sunshade and brick. The heavily wooded area around the new construction provided the added challenge of constructing the new school while maintaining and preserving Ernestine Matzke Elementary School

continued on Page 14

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Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Flooring family

All who wood

L-R: Grandson Baron Johnson joins grandfather Chris Johnson and father Brook Johnson as Johnson & Sons’ third generation.

Co-owner of Custom Carpentry By Carlos, Carlos Ramirez, working and taking measurements.

hen Chris Johnson opened up a business account, the bank asked for his company’s name to put on the paperwork. Realizing he had not created one, Johnson found inspiration in his two sons, age 4 and 6, and christened the company Johnson & Sons on the spot.

Chris’ prophecy came true: Both of his sons, Brook and Eric, did come to work for dear old dad (Chris cherishes his photo of their first day of work together).

Brook eventually became partner and vice president, while Eric eventually left the commercial and industrial flooring company to pursue a voice-acting career (Eric is probably best known for his work as “Trunks” in the anime Dragon Ball Z).

Chris’ sons aren’t the only ones involved in the family business; Chris’ wife Sandy Johnson was named as owner of Johnson & Sons four years ago, and serves as the company’s CEO. She has helped grow the business since the beginning, and was actually helping Chris when the flooring business was in a different industry altogether.

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“Back in the late 80s, I was a lawn sprinkler contractor,” Chris explains. “A company needed a contractor to start installing new floors for them, and my brother happened to work for that company. I started on a very small scale installing floors for a company that sold epoxy paints. We started doing a few floors at a time on some very small jobs and we continued to do irrigation. The irrigation was good, but after about five years, the flooring business took over. We continued doing both until about 2000.”

With 25 years of experience, and 50 employees in three locations in Plano, Houston and San Antonio, Johnson might someday have reason to change the company name in the future.

“On our Facebook page, there is a picture of myself, my son Brook and my oldest grandson, Baron, who is 15, on his first day at work at Johnson & Sons Industrial Flooring,” Chris says. “I’d like this business to make it to the third generation.

Subcontractor Johnson & Sons is in Plano, Houston and San Antonio. –mjm

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little bit of patience can go a long way. Carlos Ramirez treats his customers with respect and patience. Before Ramirez became co-owner of Custom Carpentry By Carlos he had to start somewhere.

In 2007, Ramirez moved from Mexico City, Mexico to Houston, TX. In Houston he worked with his brother who was doing carpentry.

While Ramirez worked with his brother, he was introduced to base boards, trimming and moulding. His work ethic and keen eyes lead him to master the art of carpentry.

Ramirez worked with his brother up until 2016. At that time the couple and their newborn were looking to move from Spring Branch to a quieter area in League City. Once moved, things continued to fall into place.

It was that same year that Ramirez and his wife/co-owner Angela Ramirez started Custom Carpentry By Carlos.

Their services are done for residential

and commercial clients.

Once they hired their first employee, they knew the calm before the storm was over, literally.

“Once Hurricane Harvey hit, it was so busy,” said Mrs. Ramirez. “We helped out as much as we could with our carpentry.

After that it was non-stop phone calls.”

Once people were back on their feet, so were the commercial businesses. One of Ramirez’s commercial clients needed carpentry work done for a hair salon. A unique project he recalls is building the altar for a Jewish church to place their bible.

Both owners commend their employees who have helped their company grow. Mrs. Ramirez mentions two of Ramirez’s cousins who work with the company. Christian is their project manager and Sergio is a carpenter. The family owned and operated company values honesty and patience.

Custom Carpentry By Carlos is a carpentry service for residential and commercial customers, located in League City. –lv

Good stains

Cool hand George

Lindsay Harrington, project manager for Masonry Revival.

George Campos, owner of Airtech Air Conditioning & Heating.

he word “stain” usually doesn’t refer to a good thing. The very definition sounds bad: “A colored patch or dirty mark that is difficult to remove.”

But when it comes to bricks and stones used in construction, staining is a very good thing.

Lindsay Harrington is the project manager for Masonry Revival, a certified staining contractor of Masonry Cosmetics of South Bend, IN. Masonry Cosmetics invented their own water-based system of brick staining, different from the acrylic, latex, or paint system one typically thinks of when it comes to brick restoration or correction. Masonry Revival started in October 2016. Scott Horkman is the owner.

“We use mineral oxide pigments with a bonding agent to form a translucent solution,” Harrington explained. The stain gets absorbed into the brick while not adding an extra layer on top of it, which can peel, fade, crack or chip with time and weather. Staining has a much more durable life span.

Staining has many uses. When an older school adds an addition, for instance, often times the original brick isn’t made anymore. Masonry Revival will stain the new brick to match the existing look.

Hurricane Harvey impacted a lot of homes in the Houston area. Water sat on the first level of homes long enough to discolor the brick or stone. Masonry Revival can stain the affected bricks to match the part not touched.

Sometimes, in large structures, the bricks or stones used have inconsistent colors in the run. The stain is applied brick-by-brick, not rolled or sprayed. This way, the mortar isn’t affected, unless, of course, the customer wants just the mortar stained and not the brick.

And, of course, a homeowner can just stain his entire house and give it a facelift. Harrington said, “There is such a need for our product. Most people think paint is their only option. I would love to see this take off as big as we can. “

Masonry Revival is a Houston-based brick-staining contractor. dsz

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orge (George) Campos is the product of hard work and initiative. He is the owner of Airtech Air Conditioning & Heating, and is a true success story.

Campos came over from Vera Cruz, Mexico, when he was 19, fresh out of high school. He learned English at the local community center and worked as a cabinetmaker during the week and a maintenance man on the weekends.

He told his weekend boss he wanted to continue his education, who encouraged him to do so. While working full time, Campos went to school at night, taking three years to complete the adult education program.

After graduation, he quit the cabinet business and worked for an AC supply house. “I learned what I needed to learn about AC parts and equipment,” he recalls. This company went out of business, so Campos worked for an AC outfit where he learned residential, commercial and refrigeration systems. After four years there, it was time to branch out on his own. Campos became a U.S. citizen, got his HVAC li-

cense and started Airtech in 2009.

Campos specializes in large, industrial AC repairs. This includes the refrigeration coolers that gas stations and restaurants have. Since Airtech is just he and one other guy, Campos is on call pretty much all the time. When a restaurant calls with an emergency, he has to respond immediately lest their food supplies spoil.

Commercial air conditioning can be difficult to maintain because, unlike residential, these units run all the time. “They just work harder,” Campos said. “The heat makes the equipment work harder and longer.”

Campos’ initiative is leading him to branch out into foam insulation, a sibling of air conditioning. “If you don’t have good insulation, you’re just wasting money. I think I can do a better service by going and evaluating a house,” he said.

“I’ve been able to stay in business by standing behind my work and being fair to people.”

Airtech is an HVAC company in the Houston area. -dsz

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Page 3

Military shoot

Family pack

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n May 30, The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) held their first annual Military May Shoot at Boyert Shooting Center in Katy. Over 100 people attended the event, which consisted of a friendly shooting competition, simulator exercise, recreational shooting and a unique networking opportunity for military veterans currently working or seeking employment in the commercial construction industry. –cmw

Pistol Competition Winners: 2nd Place - Daniel Hester, Astro Fence Co. 3rd Place - Tony Frankel, U.S. Army, Betco Scaffolds

Simulator Competition Winners: 2nd Place - Joe Cotton, Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing 3rd Place - Allen Poole, Texas Moisture Protection

Photo of the original family flooring company from Dallas, TX.

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1st Place Pistol Competition - Rick Hernandez, U.S. Navy, Gamma Construction

t was time to move closer to family and go for a new opportunity. Alec McCullough is originally from the Dallas area and his wife is from Mexico City.

When McCullough finished graduate school, he went straight to working in the corporate world. But McCullough grew up in the flooring industry. He said, “The original family company was a flooring company in Dallas, TX and that has spawned a lot of other companies from various family members.” His father has a flooring store in Salt Lake City, UT. However, McCullough had his roots in Texas and wanted to be closer to his wife’s family. “We starting looking around and found a flooring store that was for sale. I talked with my brother who was living in Utah,” said McCullough.

So in 2016, McCullough left his corporate job, and his brother, Tanner, moved from Utah. The two brothers moved to Houston and then purchased an existing family business and changed the name to Armory Floors. Today McCullough is a

co-owner of the company.

McCullough’s sister, Halie, also works in Houston managing the store. We learned they are all fourth generation in the flooring business. As far as the commercial services they focus only on the flooring. “Anything from small projects like office space or apartment complexes,” added McCullough.

Since the company started with the McCulloughs as owners, they’ve grown to having five installation crews.

McCullough said they want to continue to grow the business. “We have big ambitions for our company. The Houston market and Texas in general is right for opportunity. We see that opportunity and are going to take advantage and grow.”

Initially their plan in the next three to five years is to grow into five or six locations.

Today their current location is outside the northwest side of Houston.

Armory Floors is a full service flooring company in Houston, TX. –lv

Cards anyone?

Rocky Dewesee, U.S. Marine Corp, Durotech, Inc. rifle raffle winner

1st Place Simulator Competition Brian Langhorst, Procore Technologies

Jared Taylor, U.S. Marine Corp, Keystone Concrete – pistol raffle winner

Houston

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he Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) hosted its Annual Casino Night Aug. 2 at the Bell Tower. With standing room only, everyone had a great time. –cmw

Some ABC members and guests preferred to try their luck at the Craps table.

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ABC members try their luck at the poker tables.

Far left, father and son, Jim Bob Brent and Jerry Brent with Brown & Root Industrial Services Inc. won a 43” flat screen TV.

Page 4

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Sooner than later: Changes in lease accounting Doug Swofford, CPA, Accounting & Consulting Services Supervising Senior Lane Gorman Trubitt, LLC Dallas, TX

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eady or not, here it comes. Starting in 2019 for public companies (2020 for private companies), the way leases are accounted for and reported will change.

These changes can impact the financial statements of lessees. While the implementation date might seem far away in the future, companies should start preparing for the changes in order to achieve a smooth transition.

Historically, there have been two still exists, it will look very different from kinds of leases for lessees, operating leas- the historic presentation of operating es and capital leases. The difference be- leases. Under the new rules, both financtween these two types of leases is deter- ing and operating leases will require a mined by a set of rules. The life of the “right of use asset” and lease liability to asset, the length of the lease term, be recorded. This change will eliminate whether there was a bargain purchase the ability of companies to structure leasoption, and other criteria. An operating es for off balance sheet financing. lease is reported by recording rent ex- The overall changes to leases are pense over the term of the lease. A capi- more complex than simply moving them tal lease is required to be recorded on the all to the balance sheet, but that is bebalance sheet. A capital lease asset and a yond the scope of a single article. Incapital lease liability are recorded. De- stead, here are some best practices to folpreciation expense is recorded over the low. Business owners and managers term of the lease which lowers the value should look to analyze the impact of the of the asset. The liability is decreased as changes on their financial statements. If your company has significant leases, the payments are made.

The difference between operating addition of the related liabilities in the and capital leases allowed companies year of implementation could impact the some flexibility in controlling their bal- operation of your business. Bonding ance sheet. The SEC first identified leases agents, bankers, and even potential cusas a topic for change in 2005 due to in- tomers who use your financial statecreased “off balance sheet financing.” ments will notice a large jump in liabiliSome companies worked to structure ties. This could affect your ability to get leases as operating leases instead of capi- credit or secure a bond. Proactively detal leases. Both leases result in the same termining the impact will allow you to expense over the life of the lease, but start talking with your creditors now to capital leases require recording an asset make sure the change will not negatively and the accompanying liability. By focus- impact your business. Whether you like it ing on operating leases, a company could or not, change is coming. Are you ready avoid recording the liabilities associated for it?

Doug Swofford joined LGT in 2016 and with a capital lease.

The new accounting method chang- has extensive tax experience in S corporaes the two types of leases to operating tions, partnerships, and individuals, as well leases and financing leases. In addition as financial reporting: compilations and to changing the names of the lease types, reviews, business personal property: comthe reporting of leases in financial state- pliance and protests, and payroll taxes: auments will be different under the new dits and compliance issues within the conrules. Even though the operating lease struction industry.

A basic explanation of Experience Rating & its benefits to the employer Austin Goolsby, Vice President TexCap Insurance Dallas, TX

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t’s six to one and half a dozen to another whether you refer to a company’s NCCI experience rating as an EMR or EMOD. At the end of the day they are the same in relative terms but how they are computed on behalf of a business is as unique as the company itself.

Let’s start by what the National Except for a couple of industries in Council on Compensation Insurance select states, Texas is one of only two (NCCI) does and why they’re “Experience states where workers comp is elective.

Rating Plan” is a benefit to employers. Texas also has a state accident limitation, The NCCI is an insurance rating and data which helps minimize the impact of a secollection agency that is only concerned vere loss on a company’s rating. Effective with workers compensation and employ- 7/8/2018 a $251,000 cap is put on cataer’s liability. They are a non-profit organi- strophic losses. Meaning if a loss is zation analyzing industry trends within $500,000 only $251,000 can be considevery industry classification. Their exami- ered in the rating factor. Due to large nation of costs, rates and legislation are losses being so infrequent this limitation currently instituted in thirty-six states by helps alleviate the impact on ratings. The way of state insurance departments, like limitation does vary by state and in Texas the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). its reviewed annually by TDI and adjustThey use untold amounts of data report- ed to account for inflation, among other ed by the insurance companies appoint- things. ed in each state to configure work comp Now back to the real-world applicarates. The Experience Rating Plan is a vital tion and how this effects day to day oppiece in an employer’s final cost of insur- erations. The vetting of a company’s exance as it relates to workers comp and is perience, reputation and capacity, along applied in two ways. It alters the final net with verifying insurance, are all common premium paid by using a business’s practice during the pre-qualification prounique loss information and it incentiviz- cess, but more and more an employer’s es an employer to develop and imple- rating is becoming a significant factor ment loss prevention that encourage re- when receiving an invitation to bid. The turn-to-work programs. If there wasn’t an folks awarding projects are peering into Experience Rating Plan an individual an employer’s safety measures and using company’s loss prevention practices their rating as a gauge. Most of those enwouldn’t be considered and everyone forcing this measurement are requiring would be subject to manual rating, which companies to have a rating of less than is essentially an average of estimated 1.00, and some higher profile projects relosses per industry and each company quire a rating of less than 0.85. Every under the same classification would pay company should strive to have a safe their premium based on individual pay- working environment for their employroll as it relates to that specific class as a ees, both in the office and on site, and whole. that’s the whole idea behind the Experi So what information is considered? ence Rating Plan, but completion dates The primary loss information used to fig- are moved up, change orders happen ure the rating are the three years prior to and mother nature usually impacts a the expiring term. Moreover, when your project along the way. At the end of the workers comp expires this year the NCCI day, a company’s strategy and approach will use the years 2014-2015, 2015-2016 to the health and safety of its employees and 2016-2017 loss information in their will reflect in their individual rating and rating. This allows the insurance compa- their insurance will shield against the unny time to report the information to NCCI expected. and it consequently allows an employer Austin Goolsby is a Vice President of time to implement safety measures to TexCap Insurance, an independent insurprevent past losses from reoccurring. If ance agency headquartered in Dallas, Texthere isn’t prior coverage, an insurance as. He is one of the leading members of the company can use manual rating in con- construction division at TexCap Insurance junction with a scheduled credit. In order and has over 8 years of total experience in to qualify for the Experience Rating Plan the field, on the building material supply a business must have a minimum premi- side and insurance aspects of the industry. um of $10,000 or have payrolls that would For more information please visit www.Texgenerate and average of at least $5,000 CapINS.com or you can contact Austin diof premium during the previous two rectly at 972-720-5384 or agoolsby@Texyears.

CapINS.com.

Construction News ON LOCATION

Hi Y’all

Natalie Zhang, Indoor Sales for Discount A/C LLC, in Stafford, TX says “Hi.” -cmw

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Three steps employers can take to protect Latino and immigrant workers from discrimination Mauro Ramirez Fisher Phillips Houston, TX he Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that Latinos TUnited make up 29 percent of construction workers in the States. This percentage varies from state to state,

with Latinos likely comprising more than 50 percent of construction workers in Texas. (The Center for Construction Research and Training estimates 55 percent). Other studies estimate that immigrants comprise about 25 percent of construction workers nationwide and 41 percent in Texas, with most having emigrated from Mexico.

These figures – in combination with guage barrier. Are policies and acknowlgeneral shortages in skilled construction edgement forms translated into Spanish workers – underscore the importance of (either in writing or verbally)? construction companies’ efforts to re- Training. A well-drafted, thoroughly cruit and retain Latino workers. disseminated policy is not worth the pa The National Discussion on per it is printed on if managers do not Immigration know how to enforce its terms effectively Immigration from Latin-American coun- and consistently. Training is essential to tries became a key talking point during the educating managers and workers alike on 2016 election and in this year’s mid-term recognizing prohibited conduct, as well political campaigns, and employers report as responding appropriately when they an increase in enforcement efforts this witness or are a victim of such conduct. year. This national discussion highlights Again, consider providing training in the need for employers to continue non- Spanish to assure workers and managers discrimination efforts in the workplace. understand your commitment to provid In 2017, survey results indicated that ing a discrimination-free environment. about a third of Latinos reported experi- Investigation. Employers who reencing discrimination in workplace situa- ceive a report of harassment must take it tions (applications, equal pay and pro- seriously and promptly start an investigamotions). This sentiment has steadily in- tion. There is no one-size-fits-all apcreased since the early 2000s (in 2002, proach, but the following components Rutgers University found that 22 percent are essential: of Latino workers reported experiencing Objectively interview the complainrace-based unfair treatment). ing party, the alleged harasser and any

Some suggest the trends are related third-party witness, documenting the innot only to national discussions on immi- formation provided and obtaining writgration, but also to an incorrect assump- ten statements. Use a translator if necestion that discrimination is permitted sary. against certain groups. To the contrary, Preserve and review relevant eviTitle VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 pro- dence, including text messages, e-mails, hibits discrimination based on both race documents and photos. and national origin (including a person’s Analyze the facts, weigh the evidence or ancestor’s place of birth), and the Im- and assess witnesses’ credibility to determigration and Nationality Act prohibits mine the truth. discrimination against non-citizens au- Arrive at a conclusion and make recthorized to work in the United States. ommendations to resolve the complaint,

Steps for Creating an Inclusive including potential disciplinary action for Workplace the accused harasser.

Employers can take three simple Communicate the outcome of the insteps to implement these laws and create vestigation to the parties involved. an inclusive workplace: create and en- If the investigation reveals that the force anti-discrimination policies; pro- allegations against the accused are subvide effective training; and promptly in- stantiated, take action commensurate vestigate reports. with the gravity of the offense. Conduct Policies. Strong, clear policies set ing a good investigation will improve out expectations for workplace behavior morale, minimize legal liability and demand communicate how seriously you onstrate a commitment to enforcing politreat this subject. Policies should define cies and promoting an inclusive and rediscrimination and harassment (provid- spectful workforce. ing clear examples) and state conse- An inclusive work environment helps quences for violations. Policies should employers thrive in an increasingly direflect the modern workplace and ad- verse world. By adhering to the tenets of dress harassment in a thoughtful man- Title VII and implementing the steps ner. For instance, does your policy ad- above, construction companies will build dress conduct that may occur via text employee loyalty and a team perspective message or online forums? that helps them retain critical Latino Give similar thoughtful consider- workers. ation to distributing the policies. A policy Mauro Ramirez is Of Counsel in the is ineffective if workers and managers do Houston office of labor and employment not know or understand its terms. With law firm Fisher Phillips. Mauro can be respect to Latino workers, in particular, reached at 713.292.0150 or mramirez@fishemployers should account for the lan- erphillips.com.

Construction News ON LOCATION

It’s not the Flintstones, but...

John Stratta at Bedrock Building Materials takes a moment to pose for a photo.

Bedrock Building Materials is located in Stafford, TX. -cmw

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Backover Incidents Joann Natarajan Compliance Assistance Specialist OSHA Austin, TX

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backover incident occurs when a backing vehicle strikes a worker who is standing, walking, or kneeling behind the vehicle.

How do backover incidents occur?

Backover accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. Drivers may not be able to see a worker in their blind spot.

Workers may not hear backup alarms because of other worksite noises or because the alarms are not functioning. A spotter assisting one truck may not see another truck behind him. Workers riding on vehicles may fall off and get backed over.

Drivers may assume that the area is clear and not look in the direction of travel.

Sometimes, it is unclear why a worker was in the path of a backing vehicle. A combination of factors can also lead to backover incidents.

What can be done to prevent backover incidents?

Many solutions exist to prevent backover incidents. Drivers can use a spotter to help them back up their vehicles. Video cameras with in-vehicle display monitors can give drivers a view of what is behind them. Proximity detection devices, such as radar and sonar, can alert drivers to objects that are behind them.

Tag-based systems can inform drivers when other employees are behind the vehicle and can alert employees when they walk near a vehicle equipped to communicate with the tag worn by the employee. On some work sites, employers can create internal traffic control plans, which tell the drivers where to

drive and can reduce the need to back up. In some cases, internal traffic control plans can be used to separate employees on foot from operating equipment.

Training is another tool to prevent backover incidents. Blind spots behind and around vehicles are not immediately obvious to employees on foot. By training employees on where those blind spots are and how to avoid being in them, employers can prevent some backover incidents. One component of this training can include putting employees who will be working around vehicles in the driver’s seat to get a feel for where the blind spots are and what, exactly, the drivers can see. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has several blind spot diagrams that can help explain what drivers of various large trucks can see. These diagrams can be located here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/highwayworkzones/BAD/imagelookup.html OSHA also has several free videos on preventing stuck by accidents that are free to view or download: https://www.osha.gov/dts/vtools/construction/struck_by_backover_fnl_eng_ web.html natarajan.joann@dol.gov 512-374-0271 x232

Page 6

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

services and training like Robotic Total Stations, scanners, GPS, PC software, data collection, laser levels, and accessories for the surveying and construction industries.

Oralia Meneses president/owner Surveying Equipment Specialists Instruments and Field Supplies

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ralia Meneses really had no intention of getting into the surveying and construction instrument and field supply business. She certainly never thought she would become the president of Surveying Equipment Specialists Instruments and Field Supplies. But life, and health, can take some unusual turns.

Fortunately, her husband Rudy Meneses, while not a doctor, knew that a construction career would be the cure for what ailed her.

Share about your background and introduction to the construction industry.

I grew up in Houston and lived all of my life in Spring Branch. I actually started working in the medical industry right out of high school and I worked for a doctor at the Memorial Health System for 27 years.

My husband, Rudy Meneses, was working in the surveying and construction instruments and field supplies industry and he kept telling me that I needed to come and work with him. I was still working in the medical industry, but some medical issues came up where I had to leave my job. I stayed at home for a while and started helping him. Slowly, I started learning the construction lingo and finally I had the chance to start coming in here and helping him around the company. That’s when I started getting more involved and decided that I would work in this industry. We decided to make this our job.

The company has been here for more than 20 years but I have come into the company within the past six months.

We provide surveying and construction instruments and field supplies as well as

What were your initial feelings about transitioning to construction?

I was very nervous about it at first because I wasn’t sure what to expect. To me, it was something totally different than I was used to; I had always been working in the medical field. It was hard for me to translate what I used then into this job, but it’s worked out really well. I have a lot of management experience that I can bring into this company. I’m working myself into this company, but it was hard at first, I have to admit.

What skills have you carried over from your work to the construction industry?

I’ve brought along my attention to the details. I’m coming in here and getting everything organized, which is something that I always did at my previous jobs. I’m dealing with different people; this is totally different for me because it’s more of a male-based industry, where before I was used to working mainly with women. It’s a big change for me, but I really like it.

What has surprised you about working in construction?

As I have I have met the new customers coming into the office and have introduced myself as the owner, I have been surprised at how accepting people are of our woman-based company and of our minorities who work here. That’s a good thing.

What are your plans as the company’s new president?

We want to introduce the company and our products that we represent to the industry as a woman- and minorityowned business. We want to promote women to the surveying and construction industry. A lot of women that do work in surveying don’t really get noticed because it’s mainly a man-owned industry.

We really want to expand here. We want to have more opportunities for women, and more training for the surveying and construction industries, not just for women but also for men.

Who has mentored you on this journey?

My husband. He’s my mentor for everything here. If it were not for him, we would not be where we are today. At first, I wasn’t sure how it was going to work; I had never worked with my husband before. We’ve learned to separate things already; when I was working in another field, I learned not to bring things home.

The Surveying Equipment Specialists Instruments and Field Supplies team.

There is a place for work and a place for home, and we try to leave work here and not take it home.

He’s really been my inspiration for all of this, telling me that we can do this. He’s with me for every little step that we take, praising me. He’s a cheerleader for everybody in the company, and we definitely need somebody like that.

What kind of company leader do you hope to be?

I want to be someone they can look up to and say, “Yes, she did it, even though she came in here not knowing much.” Hopefully, we can bring this company up, knowing where we’re coming from.

Share a little about your employees and the way that you bond with them.

Right now, there are six of us. We love our employees that work with us; they’re great. They’ve stuck with us through everything that our company has gone through, even with our last owner that we had. We’re very happy that we have a good group of people.

We have activities that we do sometimes. We try to do a lot of things, and now that I have come in. I plan on doing more things, such as celebrating Christmas and the holidays.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I normally go on a vacation with my family once a year. We already did this year, but unfortunately my husband was not able to go because he was working.

Right now, it’s been really rough trying to keep this going and open up the doors and introduce us to everybody.

Normally, we just get together with family on the weekends, go to the park

and have a barbecue. We are animal lovers and advocates for animal rescues; we have dogs at home and we care for any animals that my husband finds and brings home. He also brings his dog, Max, to the office every once in a while because Max likes to come to the office.

Do you miss the free time you had before your new role at this company?

I am missing the free time! I’m normally a homebody – both of us are – and I enjoy just being at home with my dogs and having the time off. I know, though, that at the end of the day, it will eventually pay off and we’ll have more time with our dogs and family later.

Did you ever think in your wildest dreams that you would be in the construction industry?

No, never! My husband and I have always talked about it and I did think about it, but I never thought it would happen for some reason. Finally, it’s here.

I’m a little overwhelmed with everything – it is totally different for me as far as the construction lingo, but I’ll get there.

What do you think will make you successful in this industry?

I think having quality customer service, providing our customers with the best service and support, following up with them after sales and having open communication with our customers will help us. It has helped us before. I think if we stick to that, we can definitely come out ahead.

Supplier Surveying Equipment Specialist Instrument and Field Supply is located in Houston. – mjm

NAWIC bowls

M

embers of the Houston Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) gathered for the chapter’s NAWIC Bowls fundraising event on Jul. 20 at Copperfield Bowl. The event was a huge success and a fun-filled evening for all. –cmw

Highest Team Score – Meridian Team 1

Best Costume – Pieper Electric

Worst Team Score

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Page 7

weather patterns start to change. Wherever warm and cold air masses meet, storms begin to brew. In the process, there are often rapid changes in temperature, wind direction and barometric pressure that affect fishing. While that impending storm front might cause an angler without raingear some discomfort, it can also trigger a hot bite. The most interesting observation is that the actual pressure level itself is relatively unimportant; it’s the direction in which the barometric pressure is heading, rising or falling that has the most significant effect on fishing success. Simply stated: Rising pressure generally shuts the fish off, while dropping pressure turns the fish on and almost always improves your catch rate.

End to a great beginning

by Capt. Steve Schultz Sponsored by: Waypoint Marine, Shoalwater Boats, Evinrude Outboards, Fishing Tackle Unlimited, E-Z Bel Construction, Costa Sunglasses, Diawa Reels, Simms Fishing, ForEverlast Fishing Products, Interstate Batteries, MirrOlure, AFW and AFTCO Clothing

B

y the time this paper hits the newsstands, summer break will have ended and kids will be back in schools continuing their education. This is also a time that our bay system will see a much needed break from the daily pressures that it’s received since early May. Every year I notice more and more boats on the water. With this comes added pressure in congested areas that are popular and hold lots of fish. It doesn’t take long for fish to move on and seek less pressured areas. Changing your normal fishing strategies will keep you on the bite during these difficult times.

With fall weather patterns approaching, it’s time to start paying attention to little indicators that will help you catch fish. During summer months, weather stays fairly stable unless there is a rare rain shower in the area. Typically, from mid-May until the middle of September we are going to have pretty stable weather patterns. On the other hand, fall is a transitional season. Sometime around the third week in September, we will start to see a weather change. Most of you that dove hunt in South Texas know that we always have some sort of weather change opening weekend.

Barometric pressures will start having an effect on fish feeding as soon as these

Mark Kirshner, San Antonio, had his hands full when this 40-inch redfish decided to take his piggy perch for lunch. Fish was CPR’d after photo by Steve Schultz Outdoors.

Speaking of fall fishing, I can’t wait for cooler temperatures to arrive. This should be the month we start to see schooling reds starting to show up along our shorelines and flats. Typically, these fish will hang around our bays and estuaries for weeks feeding before they migrate to the gulf for the winter. Targeting these schools depends a lot on the weather. Calm, clear days are best for site casting these brutes and can really test the durability of your equipment. I’m always prepared with a rod rigged up with a gold spoon or a 1/4 oz. jig and a white soft plastic of some sort. You never know when you’re going to jump a school, so best be prepared.

My 2018 calendar is now open for bookings for the fall fishing season. The months of September and October are truly two of the best months of the year to fish. Also, start planning your winter trips. I will be booking wade fishing trips in Port Mansfield again this winter.

To schedule your next bay fishing trip or hunting adventure give Capt.

Steve Schultz a call at 361-813-3716 or 361-334-3105 or e-mail me at SteveSchultzOutdoors@gmail.com. Good Luck and Good Fishing.

Ryan Wyatt caught this 28-inch speck last month fish with Steve Schultz Outdoors.

Fish was CPR’d (Caught-Photoed-Released) after photos.

Page 8

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Ken Milam’s Fishing Line Since 1981, Ken Milam has been guiding fishing trips for striped bass on Lake Buchanan in the Texas Hill Country, You can hear Ken on the radio as follows: The Great Outdoors: 5-8 am Saturday on 1300, The Zone, Austin and The Great Outdoors: 5-7 am Saturday on 1200 WOAI San Antonio The Sunday Sportsman: 6-8 am Sunday on 1300, The Zone, Austin All on iHeart Radio

Dog days

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hree buzzards are sitting on the walkway to the dock. They are fluffing and snapping at each other while staring intently at a dead fish lazily floating in to shore. The fish is still 20 ft out, giving the buzzards a few more minutes to squabble before dinner arrives.

Finally they just all fly away, leaving the fish to bob along his way without them.

I know just how they feel. I don’t wanna do anything either. Nothing looks good to eat. It’s too hot. Got lots of stuff I could be doing, but I just can’t seem to make myself move!

Welcome to the Dog Days of summer. It’s when you just feel dog-tired, go around with a hang-dog expression on your face, feeling dogged out and wanting to join the dogs under the cool front porch. If summer was any longer would we just keep on naming the days after slower and draggier creatures? How about the Slug Days of summer, when it’s all you can do to just drag yourself across the hot sticky pavement. Enough of that!

The Dog Days have always been with us.

It’s that time of year when summer has officially worn out its welcome. Right between high summer when we are still enjoying being rid of winter and Indian summer, when we can begin to feel the first subtle changes of fall coming and we want to cherish every last warm afternoon, because we know are going to miss them when winter comes. Humans are not the only ones who go through this.

Neither are buzzards and dogs.

The thing I know best is fish, stripers in

particular, and they can really have a tough go of it this time of year. Since stripers come from the Atlantic, the kind of long hot summers we treat them to in Texas are not well received. They don’t tolerate the high water temperatures very well and they feel a strong tendency to want to be traveling down stream, heading back to salt-water for winter. In a lake they just end up like my pup that sleeps by the back door. They know they need out, but they can’t get there. In just a few weeks it will cool off enough to trigger the stripers starting to feed hard in preparation for spawning in the spring.

This summer we have been able to keep the striper bite going and even bring in some larger fish by reviving our downrigger fishing. They have been steady for this time of year with some hint of topwater feeding that we should start to see as fall gets here.

If you find yourself in the Hill Country hunting doves or getting the deer lease ready, save a little time to get on the water. Some the best fishing and prettiest days on the lake are just around the corner. It’s hard to beat a fish fry in the pasture under a starry sky!

Half or Full Day Fishing Trips All Bait, Tackle & Equipment Furnished Your catch Filleted and Bagged for You Furnish your TPWD Fishing License & Refreshments, and WE DO THE REST!

Ken Milam Guide Service (325) 379-2051 www.striperfever.com

Hi y’all

Stan Rothman, BlueLine Rental shared this photo of pictures taken from his game camera at Indian Creek Ranch.

She definitely is not shy! -cmw

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Page 9

Of all things to sea

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he outdoors is an escape from our concrete jungles. Travel can take you out of your comfort zone. Words can hardly express what was experienced in Mexico. All I can say is there is so much to indulge in, not just comida y tequila.

We embraced the Caribbean Sea waves while taking a sailboat to the wellknown Isla de Mujeres, a Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Cancun. There we discovered the aquatic life while snorkeling. We swam with schools of fish! The Caribbean Sea is more than a clear blue ocean; it is a breath taking view of underwater life.

Xoximilco, Xoximilco! That chant will never be forgotten, nor will the food.

Crickets along with a taste of traditional cuisines of Mexico were on the menu

during our gondola dinner tour into the canals of Xoximilco. The Aztecs are known to have built the canals.

The Xel-ha Park is an aquatic theme park. You can explore the Mayan covered cenote (cave) with snuba, a snorkel and scuba activity that takes you 30 ft. below the water. The beauty beneath the ocean is remarkable and the history of these attractions is enlightening.

Cancun is full of life, entertainment and culture. Not only did I visit the country, I discovered the purpose of visiting.

The Spanish language will bring out your true Mayan.

When was the last time the outdoors took you out of your comfort zone? Where was your last outdoor adventure? What activity did you participate in? Share it. –lv

Lexie inside the Xel-ha Mayan cave.

Right: Lexie Velasquez smiling and snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea.

Lexie 30 feet below to view the underwater caves.

Family and new friends enjoying dinner, music and drinks on the Xoximilco gondola tour.

Page 10

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Build Expo 2018

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he weather was steamy outside but nice and cool inside the NRG Center for the Houston Build Expo 2018, held Aug. 16-18. Approximately 150 exhibitors, representing every facet of construction, displayed their wares and newest innovations. From roofs to floors and everything else in between and even above, contractors and companies had a great time meeting one another, making contacts and allowing the public to see what’s new in the construction industry. Seminars and workshops rounded out the displays and exhibits. The Houston Build Expo was definitely a one-stop shop for the latest and greatest in construction. –dsz

L-R: Tammy Norman, Sarah Bankson and Deana Waddell are real pros.

L- R: Brad Everett and Mason Haltom: Here’s your sign

The Floor Decor gang is ready to floor you

L-R: Chris Ross and Ryan Green are etched in stone.

L-R: Sean Nankami and Anil Nankami see the light.

L-R: Randy Melnar and Carol Prokop get to the point.

L-R: Steve Perry, Don Perry, David Gutierrez, Tim Perry are men of action

L-R: Leslie Briner, Trey Guedry, Melissa Dalton hand out the Cajon spice at their booth

L-R: Erica Navarez and Fahd Abouabsi are really wonderful people.

L-R: Edson Batalla, Ashlee White and Marlon Richardson won’t leave you in a lurch.

L-R: Kevin Case and Robbie Robertson will cover your asset with a roof.

L-R: April Smith and Michelle Vaesa have all your plumbing fixtures.

Construction News ON LOCATION

Coming together

United Rentals’s, Stafford sales & service team takes a moment to come together for a photo. L-R: Branch Manager Ronnie Daniels, Arsenio Leal, Ramon Salas, Tammy Walker and Matt Yarbrough. -cmw

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Page 11

THIS TH MON Jan: Construction Forecast Mar: Construction Education May: Concrete Industry July: Electrical Industry Feb: Construction Safety Apr: Women in Construction Jun: HVAC & Plumbing Aug: Service Providers

The beneficial green Lyle Coston, Vice President of Waterproofing & Caulking Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing Houston, TX

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yle Coston has over 20 years experience in sealants and waterproofing. He holds a BBA in Business Management from the University of Phoenix Houston. He has been part of the Chamberlin family for 18 years and is well versed in green building and sustainability.

What are the benefits of green building?

The benefits of green building are that it provides the owner with a longterm investment that will pay for itself over the life of the building. The more energy efficient a building is will help with the energy costs, which will pay for those upgrades (or code requirements) during construction, like continuous insulation and air barriers.

What are the economic benefits of green or sustainable building and development?

There are many architects that now have enough historical data on green buildings that can prove lower energy costs when owners select options that create a more energy efficient building.

Building Enclosure Energy modeling has come a long way with the technological advances that can help show owners the cost impact during construction and

benefits over time.

What are the major changes in your industry relating to green building?

Major changes related to Division 7 are continuous insulation code requirements. Thermal bridging of metal components like steel studs, Z-furring, metal screws and even flashings have shown with 3-D imaging that the R-Value mentioned on an insulation doesn’t mean that wall will have R-19. The thermal bridging reduces that R-Value significantly so the need for continuous insulation to create a thermal break is needed to get that R-Value back up.

What is the most significant challenge your industry faces relating to green building?

Design and consistency in the way these projects are being built. We are seeing a significant change in air and va-

A better tomorrow Ryan Therrell, Director of Business Development The Beck Group Austin, TX

F

ounded in 1912, The Beck Group is a collaborative team of designers, builders and technology experts, offering planning, architecture, interior design, construction, sustainability and technology consulting services. By integrating architecture and construction, Beck provides a unique approach to projects that transforms the way organizations design and build.

How is green building related to smart growth and sustainable development?

Green buildings are only a piece of the sustainable development pie. Architects and contractors historically have focused mainly on the building, but in order to improve our lives and the environment, we need to look beyond the buildings in a more inclusive way to the surrounding communities and regions.

We need to ask questions such as: How can we impact health? How can we develop in a way that can add value and regenerate our surroundings?

What are the benefits of green building?

Energy and water savings are the most obvious economic and financial benefits both in operational cost and resource conservation. Additional benefits

to building owners include operational savings, better marketability and branding, improved recruiting and retention of top talent, reduced healthcare costs, and increased property value. Benefits to employees include improved health, comfort, overall well-being and productivity.

What are the major changes in your industry relating to green building?

Green building discussions are moving beyond looking strictly at operational savings through building performance, but also how health and wellness impacts a company’s bottom line. For example, the WELL Building Standard is new to the market and is focused solely on the occupant.

What is the most significant challenge

GREEN BUILDING

Sept: Green Building Nov: Architecture & Engineering Oct: Specialty Contractors Dec: Construction Equipment

por barriers as well as insulation. These changes are causing confusion in the architectural and contracting community because not all of these systems have been tested together. They are tested in standalone conditions and pass most ASTMs that are listed, but the entire system is rarely put together to test it as a whole system.

Are green buildings more expensive to construct? Why? Green buildings are more expensive to construct because of the requirements to achieve certain LEED Certification levels. The cost impact is due to material selection and design that may otherwise not be required if it was not a green building. Studies have shown that the initial cost is a few percentage points more but when you roll in the cost of that building after five years, the payback may show you that the building will actually cost less.

What are the cost increases relating to green building?

Testing, continuous insulation, R-Value requirements, whole building envelope testing, and material selection are just a few of the increases but the savings again are on the backside. We have seen buildings that have not followed any guidelines and they are losing either heat or AC at a very rapid pace that could have easily offset those initial costs had they commissioned the air and vapor barrier installation. Images can now show owners where they are

your industry faces relating to green building?

One of the biggest challenges is effectively dealing with the costs of green building.

Are green buildings more expensive to construct? Why? What are the cost increases relating to green building?

In Beck’s experience, green buildings don’t necessarily have to cost more.

Through an integrated design process that prioritizes holistic, innovative solutions, green buildings can be the same or potentially lower cost than traditional buildings. Another way to look at the cost of green buildings is to look at the lifecycle cost. Being able to quantify the first cost of an energy efficiency strategy as well as the predicted operational savings will provide a simple payback that can help owners make big picture decisions.

What is on the horizon for your industry?

Actual performance. It’s good to do the up-front analysis and design to a predicted energy efficiency level; but until you verify it, savings are only probable.

We include Post Occupancy Evaluation (POE) services as part of our Sustainability consulting services.

Have there been any significant code or regulation changes regarding green building?

losing the AC or heat very easily which are sometimes surprising to see.

What is on the horizon for your industry?

More green roofs and amenity decks, continuous insulation and roof assemblies that are reflective with higher R-Value requirements where it is a minimum not an average.

Have their been any significant code or regulation changes regarding green building?

Yes, there have been code changes but it becomes a political nightmare within each city or county on who is adopting those codes and then hiring the personnel in the permitting office to enforce or implement the changes through plan review and permitting.

How are buildings certified as green in the U.S.?

USGBC is the standard when it comes to LEED Certification. The United States Green Building Council was started in 1993 during a founding meeting at the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

Continuous collaboration and education with industry experts have helped to push this certification as a standard in LEED certification.

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing is full-service roofing and waterproofing company with offices in Texas & Oklahoma. -cmw

One of the most significant changes is pushing high performance buildings to the new energy codes. Most of the regions of the country that we work in have adopted the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), which calls for stricter requirements for building envelopes, lighting, heating and cooling, which lead to operational savings and reduced Green House Gas (GHG) emissions.

Additionally, increased commissioning requirements ensure the predicted energy savings are realized.

How are buildings certified as green in the U.S.?

The most widely recognized green building certification in the world is the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). Their Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification program sets the standard for building performance. Beyond USGBC’s LEED rating system is the Living Building Challenge, which rewards projects for net zero/net positive energy and water and avoiding chemicals of concern, as well as other imperatives such as beauty and health and happiness.

The Beck Group is a full-service architecture and construction firm with offices in Atlanta, Tampa, Mexico City, Denver, Austin, Dallas and Fort Worth. -cmw

Page 12

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

THIS TH MON

GREEN BUILDING

To represent your company in an upcoming FOCUS, contact HoustonEditor@ConstructionNews.net (210) 308-5800

NEXT MONTH (October 2018) SPECIALTY CONTRACTORS

Healthy buildings, healthy people Mary Bartlett, Partner, AIA, RID, LEED AP Marmon Mok Architecture San Antonio, TX

B

artlett is an architect with over 25 years of experience, working on civic, corporate and higher education projects.

What are the benefits of green building?

Green building has significant benefits for the environment and the building occupants. For the building, it’ll use less water and energy, will have better indoor air quality, and will incorporate more natural light. As a result, the occupants’ health and wellbeing will be improved and their workplace productivity will increase.

How is green building related to smart growth and sustainable development?

It is an approach that specifically addresses and minimizes the harmful effects of the building on the environment during construction and throughout its operation and habitation.

Green building also follows the idea that healthy buildings make healthy people. It ensures good health and wellbeing are addressed through design, finding practical solutions to provide clean water, affordable and clean energy, responsible consumptions, and production.

What are the economic benefits of green or sustainable building and development?

Green building leads to lower life cycle costs, lowering water and energy bills and long-term maintenance costs. Material selections are also more durable and therefore fewer are required. Aside from the physical costs, the building’s marketability increases as the majority of today’s consumers highly value sustainability and enhanced quality of life and productivity in spaces.

What are the major changes in your industry relating to green building?

I think the major changes are how the codes are now mandating many of the green building practices. Additionally, the industry is looking to improve the entire building for its occupants. For example, the WELL building practices include air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.

A construction standard John O’Connor, Director of Preconstruction Balfour Beatty Dallas, TX

J

ohn O’Connor is an experienced director of preconstruction with a demonstrated history of working in the construction industry. He holds a Bachelor of Science Civil Engineering degree focused in Civil Engineering from Michigan Technological University.

What are the benefits of green building?

Green building takes an approach that meshes building construction with the surrounding environment. When done correctly, the benefits can be recognized by those who occupy the building, in addition to owners responsible for the long-term operation and maintenance of the building. For end-users, benefits often include increased natural lighting that provides a healthier and more productive work environment. Natural lighting can also reduce operating costs for owners by reducing power consumption by artificial lighting.

How is green building related to smart growth and sustainable development?

Green building is the construction process to achieve smart growth and sustainable development. Designed to create environmentally friendly work and living spaces, the process promotes the efficient use of the available space, minimizes waste during the building process, and utilizes materials that reduce operations and maintenance (O&M) costs.

Green building also considers the longterm function of buildings and how to

maximize the surrounding environment by thoughtfully evaluating building orientation and minimizing the impact on the existing site and surrounding area.

Simply evaluating a new structure’s orientation and its impact on the site can affect mechanical equipment efficiencies, electrical power needs and the natural drainage of the site.

What are the economic benefits of green or sustainable building and development?

By leveraging sustainable energy sources such as solar power or geothermal systems, economic benefits are inherent in green buildings which are more efficient and provide power to the grid.

Green buildings promote the use of recycled materials like reclaimed wood, recycled steel and products that come from recycled materials. These environments also take into careful consideration the health of the end-users in regard to air quality and lighting, which in turn creates healthier and more productive living and work environments.

What are the major changes in your industry relating to green building?

Green building practices are becom-

What is the most significant challenge your industry faces relating to green building?

I think the biggest challenge is educat-ing the public and clients on the science behind the green building movement and understanding the long-term benefits versus the short-term investment.

ments, and major renovations shall be carbon neutral by 2030,’ and the push for net-zero buildings, meaning the building creates more energy than it consumes. In response to this goal, there is a renewed enthusiasm for development of new and creative alternatives of products and materials.

Are green buildings more expensive to construct? Why?

I think the key word in this question is construct, and to that point, yes and no. You can make always make design choices that will make the building more expensive to construct. Typically, to construct a green building through the use of material choices and the conscious effort to make the building more efficient, it does not cost more. The bottom line is, green buildings are designed for the present and future, to last, to enhance, and to conserve, both dollars and resources like energy and water.

Have there been any significant code or regulation changes regarding green building?

Yes, the building codes are changing to require sustainable requirements in-stead of just making them optional.

The necessity established by new codes and regulations makes many of the issues more mainstream, enhancing the conversation of green building and continuing to push research and innovation. In turn, the bar for green buildings keeps rising.

What are the cost increases relating to green building?

There doesn’t have to be a cost increase, but some of the choices made towards green building can be more expensive: many times it depends on geographic location and available access to water, alternative energy sources, and sustainable and green materials.

What is on the horizon for your industry?

We are still moving towards the goal set for 2030, ‘All new buildings, develop-

ing more of the standard for construction in the industry today. There are many benefits for building owners when it comes to lower O&M costs and investment values, although those benefits come with additional initial construction costs. The most notable changes we see are changes being made to building codes and local jurisdiction codes for building in large metropolitan areas.

What is the most significant challenge your industry faces relating to green building?

Education, understanding the requirements and helping the designers with constructability of the new systems.

The next challenge is understanding what the owner’s ultimate goal is for their project.

Are green buildings more expensive to construct? Why? Although the long-term O&M cost savings are well documented, green buildings are more expensive to build.

Green buildings often require new and less available materials such as Forest Stewardship Council-certified (FCS) wood products. Green building systems may also require additional layers, whether it’s additional insulation in wall and roof systems or additional valves and controls to enhance mechanical systems.

Also, commissioning costs to verify buildings have been constructed to meet the efficiency requirements to be designated a green building.

What are the cost increases relating to green building?

Ultimately the cost increase revolves around new, unknown processes and the requirement to prove the buildings achieve the green building designation. I

How are buildings certified as green in the U.S.?

There are a few ways to validate the sustainable aspects of a building with the following standards of LEED certification Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design; CHPS - Consortium for High Performance Schools; Energy Star – energy consuming products Green Globes; GBCI and WELL Building Standard.

Founded in 1953, Marmon Mok is a leading architectural design practice in the San Antonio community and throughout the state of Texas. -cmw

believe as these new processes and systems are increasingly utilized, it will be understood they achieve green building standards and will not require the extreme cost of verification.

What is on the horizon for your industry?

I believe green building practices that save on O&M costs will continue to be more of a requirement than a choice in the future for developers and owners.

Builders will have to be better informed of these changes in order to anticipate green-building trends that will affect the construction processes for their projects.

Have there been any significant code or regulation changes regarding green building?

Green building practices have certainly influenced changes to building codes. For instance, the electrical energy codes now require lighting control systems in institutional facilities like schools to reduce power consumption by shutting off lights when rooms are not in use or are unoccupied.

How are buildings certified as green in the U.S.?

Buildings in the United States are primarily certified through the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® green building program. However, some major metropolitan municipalities like Dallas and Austin are adopting their own green building requirements as part of their building codes, but they do not provide certifications.

Balfour Beatty is a full-service general contractor with offices throughout the continental US. –cmw

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Page 13

Association Calendar

s

Submitted to Construction News

Round-Up

Content submitted by Associations to Construction News ABC

Independent Electrical Contractors

Sept. 14: Membership Breakfast, Houston Marriott North, 255 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. E., 6:30-9am.

Oct. 5: BBQ Cook-off, Bayou City Event Center Pavilion, 9401 Knight Rd. For more info, contact Lauren Harrell at 713-5236222

Sept. 26: General Membership Meeting, IEC Auditorium, 601 N. Shepherd Dr., #350.

Sept. 27: IEC Contractor Happy Hour, Location TBD, 4-7pm. For more info, contact Tori Barrett at 713-869-1976 or email mbrdir@iectxgc.org

AGC

MCA

Associated General Contractors

Mechanical Contractors Assn.

Sept. 22: APEX Awards Gala, The Houstonian, 111 N. Post Oak Ln., 7-11pm. For more info, contact Catherine Bezman at 713-843-3750

Sept. 12: Membership Lunch Meeting; HESS Club, 5430 Westheimer, 11:45am.

Sept. 16: Joint Meeting with Associate Members, HESS Club, 5430 Westheimer, 11:45am. For more info, call 281-4404380

AMCH

Associated Masonry Contractors of Houston

Sept. 19: General Membership Meeting, Maggiano’s Little Italy, 2019 Post Oak. For more info, call 713-806-2990 ASCE

American Society of Civil Engineers

Sept. 11: Branch Meeting, Hess Club, 5430 Westheimer, 5-9pm.

Sept. 15: Buffalo Bayou Clean Up Volunteer Event, 8-11:30am. For more info, call 713-261-5156

NAWIC

National Assn. of Women in Construction

Sept. 10: NAWIC Membership Meeting, Maggiano’s Little Italy, 2019 Post Oak Blvd. For more info, contact Kathy Cernosek at kathy@rsitx.com NECA

National Electrical Contractors Assn.

FPA

Sept. 29 – Oct. 2: NECA Convention & Trade Show, Philadelphia, PA. For more info, contact Vicky Hernandez at 713-9772522

Sept. 12: Meeting, Lisa Lukefahr, Hess Club, 5430 Westheimer, 4pm. For more info, call Vicky Bonds at 713-699-4000

Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Gulf Coast Chapter

Foundation Performance Assn.

HAGA

Houston Area Glass Assn.

Sept. 27: 5th Annual Clay Shoot, American Shooting Center, 16500 Westheimer Pkwy, 9am. For more info, call 281-8498293 or email Dorothy Gurka at dgurka@ houstonglass.org HCA

Houston Contractors Assn.

Sept. 7: Past Presidents Dinner, Brennan’s of Houston, 3300 Smith St., 5-7pm.

For more info, contact Jeffrey Nielsen at 713-349-9434 or jnielsen@houstoncontractors.org Sept. 18: Small Business & Employee Development Fundraising Soiree, HCA Training Room, 4001 Sherwood Ln. 5:307:30pm. For more info, contact Kim Sturgis at 713-349-9434 or kim@houstoncontractors.org Sept. 25: HCA 2nd Annual Golf ‘N Grub, Wildcat Golf Course, 12000 Alemeda Rd. For more info, contact Antonette Skrabanek at 713-349-9434 or askrabanek@ houstoncontractors.org

Hunton Group is pleased to announce the firm’s new leadership.

IEC

Associated Builders & Contractors

PHCC

Sept. 12: Gulf Coast PHCC Lunch Meeting, Saltgrass Steakhouse, 1803 Shepherd Dr., 11:30am-1pm. For more info, contact Dorothy Gurka at 281-702-2955 or register online gulfcoastphcc.org/events.html

Richard Hutton, Jr. has been named the new CEO and president of Hutton Group after serving as COO and president for the past 12 years. Hutton holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas at Austin and Rice University Executive Education Program.

-cmw

BC Commercial (Beach Construction) is pleased to announce the addition of two construction veterans.

James Modisette has been hired as project manager for BC and offers 20 years of experience in project management, estimating and business development. Serving on the Board of the Brazoria County Economic Development Alliance, Modisette’s background in government and municipal construction projects will be a strong asset this division of the BC Commercial team, which includes the company’s official designation in Job Order Contracting. -cmw

Round-Up Submissions

SWICA

Southwest Insulation Contractors Assn.

Sept. 6: Member/Guest Golf Tournament, BlackHorse Golf Club, 12205 Fry Rd., Cypress, TX. For more info, contact Linda Tracey at 281-435-3859 or visit www.swicaonline.org TSPE

Texas Society of Professional Engineers

Sept. 1: 1st Annual Bowling Tournament, Bowlmor, 925 Bunker Hill Rd., 5:308:30pm. For more info, call WCA

Randy Wallen has been named president and general manager of Hutton Services and COO for Hunton Group. Wallen has over 40 years of experience in the HVAC business. During his career he has recruited, mentored, and managed dozens of talented individuals who have grown to achieve executive level positions in their respective organizations. -cmw

Submit Info & Photo:

Lamar Singletary, Jr. has been hired as district project manager and brings more than 30 years of experience. His strong background in healthcare construction aligns with BC Commercial’s track record in construction with the scientific and healthcare oriented markets.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Building Construction from Texas A&M University. –cmw

Brief company announcements of new or recently promoted personnel, free of charge, as space allows.

HoustonEditor@ConstructionNews.net

(210) 308-5800

Hook, line & winner

T

he Texas Society of Professional Surveyors (TSPS) Alamo Chapter 11 in conjunction the Coast Bend Chapter 12 held their 13th Annual Hook, Line and Surveyor fishing tournament at Redfish Bay & Boathouse in Aransas Pass. All proceeds from the event benefit the chapters’ scholarship funds. Prizes were awarded to the 1st, 2nd, 5th and 8th place winners of each boat for heaviest stringer. -cmw

Women Contractors Assn.

Sept. 6: WCA September Luncheon, Harold’s in the Heights, 350 W. 19th St. For more info, call Sandra Janak at 713-8079977 or email director@womencontractors.org

What would you like to see more of in Construction News?

More pictures of jobsites and the people at work.

Carlos Ramirez, Custom Carpentry by Carlos

business and running a business in general.

Chris Ross Choate Monument Company

More in-depth stories of the average worker.

Jackie Amador Houston Plans and Permits

Maybe a little more focus on architects or design.

Perry Seeberger, Seeberger Architecture

News stories on new projects.

The latest and greatest ideas and innovations in the construction industry.

Steve Williams Houston Water Heaters

Don Perry Action Window Coverings Stories on new construction in progress.

Edson Batalla Lerch Bates

I would like to see a mini spotlight feature, specifically highlighting women in all fields of construction.

Lindsay Harrington Authentic Masonry and Stone I’d like to see more interviews with ‘old pros’ and even retirees, and hear them share their wisdom on the construction

L-R: 1st Place Guided Largest Trout: JDS Surveying – Bob Bruns, Ryan Maxfield, Jace Scarbrough and Tim Chaney

I would like to see specific recently completed projects highlighted, as well as trends in construction design and architecture.

Randy Reynolds Pinnacle Tile & Flooring I’d like to see more information about new technology in the construction field and marketing strategies for small service businesses.

Keith Lamb Flat Out Plumbing

L-R: 1st Place Unguided, Artificial Only, Largest Redfish: Enrique Vallejo, Greg Mokry, Jacob Marmolejo and Cesilee Mokry

Page 14

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

JOB SIGHTS

Badger Construction’s Jesus Flores prepares to install sheet rock at the new Mr. Express on Greenhouse Road, Katy, TX. -cmw

continued from Page 1 — Fam-tastic legacy heavily into establishing Stone River Excavation and Concrete in 2008. Unfortunately, the recession dried up work in Houston and the company lay dormant.

The couple resuscitated the business in 2015 with their son on board and Luz as the ultimate administrator.

“We were doing little jobs, and through my ability to answer my phone and my father’s past experience with so many other construction companies, many doors were already open for us,” Quinones Jr. says. “We started working for a Galveston builder and more people got word that my father had started a company and that I was running things.

Other companies that we used to work for asked us to do all of their subcontract work. Almost three years later, we have four pieces of equipment, and we’re looking for land to start a home office and yard. It’s going well, thank God.”

Many of their eight-person crew are people the family previously worked with at other companies who have now joined this new venture. Quinones Jr. says the staff won’t grow too large, however.

“We wanted to be like the big dirt companies, but we came to understand that with that comes a lot of unnecessary stress. We do want to get bigger, maybe have a couple of offices in Dallas or San Antonio. We’ll go wherever the work is;

we’ve already had offers to go to Florida, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and we have no qualms with that. As far as size goes, we realized we don’t have to be big to enjoy this work and make it something that we’re proud of. We can be small and do that.”

After its first major project with Method Construction for U-Pull-&-Pay, Stone River Excavation and Concrete has worked on projects for Dollar General, ALDI, general contractor K-Austin and Associates, and Service Corporation International (SCI).

“We’re being subcontracted for mass excavation sites, and this is what my father & I really enjoy, these big projects we can sit on for a good while,” Quinones Jr. says.” It’s great.

Quinones Jr., who recently married, hopes to someday share with his future children what his parents have shared with him.

“I want to show my kids what I’ve constructed, like my dad did with me. It’s a legacy,” he says. “This is something that we know we’re supposed to start doing and we’re living it right now. It comes with its challenges but thank God He has brought us through all of it. It’s been really fun.”

Subcontractor Stone River Excavation and Concrete Inc. is in Richmond. –mjm

continued from Page 1 — Top o’the world, Ma

Raul Guzman with Genoa French Construction performs excavation and utility work at Katy Fort Bend City Road & Franz Road for a new office & warehouse facility. -cmw

Place your bet!

I

t was gambling time for the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Aug. 10. The association hosted a casino night for its members and guests with a huge success. Over 200 guests were in attendance. IEC collected school supplies for the VFW 8790 during the event who donated the supplies to families of veterans in need. –cmw Sarah, Roderick and Hannah from Wicked Whisk Catering

Place your bets, but wait, smile!

Sherry Toy, Lighthouse Business Solutions and Steeplechase Graphics won a Milwaukee drill.

Members take a moment from their poker game to smile for the camera.

lines of communication open.

When it comes to intricate patterns on a floor, like a mosaic, “often times we have to actually hand cut and hand fabricate a lot of those patterns,” Reynolds explained. It’s important, therefore, to have proper floor preparation, which will ensure all the pieces fit.

A lot has changed since Reynolds first started out. There is a “tremendous amount of variety that is out there,” he said, when it comes to floor finishes and manufacturing. This gives the end user much more options on what they can have.

A big change is also in the bonding and adhesion elements. “A crew in the past may have spent two weeks to do an installation,” Reynolds said. “Now, it could be down to one week.” Having a quicker drying time not only lowers the cost to the customer, it frees up Pinnacle to do more jobs.

Reynolds has also seen a shift from real hardwood to the wood look (luxury vinyl tile). Ceramic or porcelain tile can be baked to look like the real thing. Once a photograph of the real wood is taken, it is

run through a computer and will look like the real McCoy once it’s cooked. Tile is resistant to all forms of moisture, offering another option.

As with any style, Reynolds has seen color schemes change, going from the beige/brown look to more grays and neutrals.

Virtual reality glasses are making an impact for companies like Pinnacle. They can show a person everything they need to see, including the floor, in the space they want to make.

Despite all these changes, Reynolds stays on top of them all. He said, “Our guys [in the field] have seen pretty much everything out there in the industry,” with a combined 150 years worth of experience. “Over half our crews have been with us more than 15 years.”

Reynolds’ son Ethan is the third generation to work in the family floor business.

Pinnacle is a floor company based on five pillars that elevate it to the top of the world, even if located in sea level Houston.

Pinnacle Tile & Flooring is a full- service flooring contractor in the Houston area. -dsz

continued from Page 1 — Updating for the next generation the natural vegetation of the area. The team had to use forward thinking in the designing and construction of the facility to account for the potential future growth of the trees in the area.

Multiple features of the school encourage students to engage with their learning environment such as the amphitheater designed to resemble a protractor or the carpets of classrooms The re-created Friendship Tree tradition at Matzke Elementary. having rulers and protractors incorporated into them. The cistern stant lines of communications throughin the courtyard promotes sustainability out the life of the project which helped and collects water that can be used in the contribute to the success of this project. school’s garden. An entire wing of the All parties were focused on creating the school is dedicated to a special education best possible school for the students, facprogram that has an audiology booth ulty and staff. that can run tests and diagnostics on stu- PBK has been working for the Cypress-Fairbanks District for about 18 dents.

The recreated Matzke friendship tree years and have a productive ongoing carries on a tradition that has been in professional relationship. Matzke is just place since the principal, Cathy Jacobs, one of multiple projects that PBK and was a student and had her thumbprint Purcell Construction have partnered on on the first Matzke tree at the original for the Cy-Fair ISD and look forward to continuing their strong, creative relationschool campus.

Partner-in-charge Eric Smith, Proj- ship.

Purcell Construction Inc. is a full-service ect Manager Brandon Ross, Project Ar- chitect Sarah Stolting and Project De- general contactor in Humble, TX. –cmw signer David Caballero maintained con-

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018

Page 15

Success is in survival

I

Eye in the sky

L-R: Perry Seeberger, Andrea Marino, Chris Emery, Xuehao Yang, Chris Shaw and Jorge Romero.

t is incredible to watch your business grow, isn’t it? And what can make it strive are the people you bring into your business. Survival in our construction industry is a jungle of its own. So when you reach 35 years of work, you realize your survival skills have done you good.

Seeberger Architecture started in 1983 and is run by Founder/President Perry Seeberger.

During inception, they were a space planning and interior architecture firm.

But in the recent years they have been working on health care, retail and industrial pipe projects that can range from 150,000sf to 400,000sf.

This year Seeberger Architecture celebrates 35 years. Congratulations! And all Seeberger can say about surviving is, “To survive 35 years we’ve had to be flexible.”

Meaning their focus rotates from retail, industrial to medical. “I call that our three legged stool and we’ve been very fortunate to be a flexible firm. We don’t focus on only one market,” said Seeberger.

Seeberger Architecture has been based in Houston for their entire 35 years.

He comments that it is interesting that they have only been based in Houston because Houston is not the only service area. In fact, Seeberger is licensed in 23 states and they have worked with clients from all around.

The takeaways Seeberger has gained came from surviving the industry. Looking back. He has survived five economic cycles of Houston and the overall economy. “I feel like each time I get a little smarter and a little wiser and don’t have to crash as hard.” Seeberger adds, “I started a company in 1983 and Texas had a very tough economic time around 198587.” Seeberger Architecture has had about four more of those cycles occur and the main thing learned is survival.

The original team members that Seeberger would like to recognize are Kitty Taylor, Joseph Bond, Tracy Wade Tim Cowell and Carlos Martin. It was 10 years ago that they all came into town to celebrate the 25th anniversary. But this year’s number is 35 and Seeberger is ready to survive more.

Seeberger Architecture offers a variety of services and is located in Houston, TX. –lv

D

Deana Waddell, owner of Pro Aire Photography.

eana Waddell has gone from photographing kids in living rooms and senior portraits in the park to hanging out of an airplane, shooting pictures for a wide variety of commercial clients.

Waddell bought Pro Aire Photography from its original owner early this year. With the business came its airplane, a Cessna 172.

Since video photography is being requested more, and video shot out of an airplane tends to be bumpy, Waddell also got a drone. She has her drone license but contracts out to other drone users as well. By law, drones can only go up to 400 feet above the building it is photographing, while planes can only come down to 1,000.

As of now, Waddell does 90 percent plane photography and 10 percent drone.

Who requests Pro Aire’s services?

Commercial and residential real estate agents; commercial construction devel-

opers who want monthly, in-progress shots; landmarks and sports stadiums; office buildings; shopping centers and malls; business and industrial sites; roofing companies. You name it - Waddell will shoot it.

Waddell goes up in the Cessna two three times a week for four - five hours at a time.

“I love it,” she said. “I love being up in the little airplane. I love opening the window and taking the picture.”

Waddell would like to get a second airplane for move coverage. She has gone as far as Padre Island to the south and Dallas to the north. A second plane would expand her availability.

When Pro Aire started over 20 years ago, there were no drones and the pictures were shot on film. Now, with digital photography and drones, the sky’s the limit for Waddell and Pro Aire.

Pro Aire Photography is an aerial photography service, based in Houston. -dsz

Page 16

Houston Construction News • SEPT 2018