The official magazine of the North Carolina Home Builders Association
Vol. 39, No. 4, May 2009
Fifteen members earn professional designations
Rally in Raleigh June 9-10 Today’s wood is engineered to perform
Membership Defenders, Unite!
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May 2009
North Carolina Builder 1
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2 North Carolina Builder
May 2009
Features
V ol . 39, N o . 4, M ay 2009
12
The official magazine of the North Carolina Home Builders Association
2005 Communicator Award Winner
Dedicated to the advancement of the home building industry, North Carolina Builder (ISSN 1552-8685) is published monthly for the members of the North Carolina Home Builders Association, P.O. Box 99090, Raleigh, N.C. 27624-9090. (800) 662-7129 • http://www.nchba.com Mike Carpenter Executive Vice President and General Counsel
6
Lisa Martin Director of Government Affairs
17
Driving home the message
6
With one of the largest delegations in the country, the North Carolina Home Builders Association participated in the NAHB Legislative Conference March 24, carrying a strong message to its 15 federal legislators.
Fifteen members earned their designations
12
Taking advantage of the lull in business, a number of members went back to school in early March to hone their skills and enhance their knowledge at the spring NCBI session. Fifteen participants earn their designation.
Members of the club
By participating in NAHB’s Builder 20 Clubs, builders in North Carolina are learning valuable information from colleagues across the country.
Membership defenders, unite!
17
This overview of the many benefits of home builders association membership is designed to encourage nonmembers to join, while reminding current members of all the advantages they receive through their affiliation with their local, state and national associations.
The time to learn is now
23
Engineered to perform
24
This issue’s product roundup takes a look at what’s happening in today’s engineered wood market.
Contents 4. President’s Message 6. Capitol Insider 11. Code Corner 25. Build-Pac Contributors 26. Knowledge Builder 28. Spike of the Month 28. Spike Member Update 32. The Green Scene 35. NCHBA News On the cover: Engineered wood products help builders streamline their production process. (Photo courtesy of Huber Engineered Woods.)
May 2009
Robert Privott Director of Codes and Construction rprivott@nchba.org Jessica Hayes Director of Political Affairs
jhayes@nchba.org
Kathryn Atkinson Director of Membership Services katkinson@nchba.org dalford@nchba.org
Tracie Garrett Director of Exhibitor Services
tgarrett@nchba.org
Kep Paylor Vocational Education
kpaylor@nchba.org
Linda Hall Controller
lhall@nchba.org
Erin Jones Manager of Political Operations
ejones@nchba.org
Heather Crews Director of Communications and Managing Editor
hcrews@nchba.org
Wendy Spaziani Assistant Education Coordinator wspaziani@nchba.org Beth Gray Receptionist
The 21CBEC offers up-to-date seminars on the hottest topics that affect an ever-changing marketplace. This is your opportunity to excel and to ensure the health of your company’s bottom line.
lmartin@nchba.org
To be named Director of Regulatory Affairs
Deborah Alford Director of Exhibitions and Education
15
mcarpenter@nchba.org
bgray@nchba.org
Advertising Sales Executive Sharon Freeman (888) 364-5271 freemanfour4@cox.net Graphic Designer
Paige Takach
Publisher
Association Publishing Inc. www.associationpublishinginc.com Sandra Amidon and Joyce Hearn, APR (757) 420-2434
Acceptance of advertising in North Carolina Builder does not imply endorsement of the product or service by NCHBA. Opinions expressed in articles are those of the authors and people quoted and not necessarily those of NCHBA, nor does mention of specific products in editorial content imply endorsement by NCHBA. No material may be reproduced for further publication without the express permission of the association. North Carolina Builder is published for the principals and employees of all member firms of the North Carolina Home Builders Association Affiliated with the Association and its receipt is included in the membership fee. National of Home Builders. North Carolina Builder is published monthly except for January. Since the mailing list used by North Carolina Builder is compiled according to membership records, address corrections should be directed to your local association. Nonmember subscriptions are available from the publisher for $30 a year. Dues paid to NCHBA are not deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes. However, they may be deductible as ordinary and necessary business expenses subject to restrictions imposed as a result of association lobbying activities. NCHBA estimates that the nondeductible portion of your 2009 dues — the portion that is allocable to lobbying — is 28 percent.
North Carolina Builder 3
President’s Message
2009 NCHBA Leadership
by Frank Wiesner, 2009 NCHBA President
HBA members are just good people
President Frank Wiesner President-Elect Lyle Gardner First Vice President Bill Daleure Secretary/Treasurer Rick Shields Executive Vice President Mike Carpenter Immediate Past President & NAHB Executive Committee State Representative Ray Rhodes NAHB Executive Committee Rick Judson Vice President, Region I Patrick Mann Vice President, Region II Glenn Morrison Vice President, Region III Barry Tutor Vice President, Region IV Ralph Doggett Vice President, Region V Jackie Trinchitella Vice President, Region VI Brian Robinett Vice President, Region VII Erik Anderson Vice President, Region VIII Darrel Hamilton Vice President, Region IX Kevin Annas Vice President, Region X Zac Koenig Presidential Appointee Elizabeth Cubler Presidential Appointee Larry Howard Presidential Appointee Mike Gerber Chair, Associate Members Committee Tammie Smoot President, EO/ES Council Bunny Boyd President, Professional Women in Building Tammie Smoot
4 North Carolina Builder
O
ver the past several months I have had the opportunity to visit many of our local HBAs, which has provided me incredible insight into who our membership is. I enjoy watching the interaction as members arrive for the meeting and exhibit the genuine care, friendship and affection that exists between the men and women who are builders, associates and affiliates in an industry that binds them together in the common cause of providing homes for families in our local communities. Attending these meetings allows me an opportunity to put into practice one of the many life lessons my grandfather taught me. I have kept his lessons in a safe place in my mind, because you never know when a situation will arise that a good old-fashioned dose of common sense and practical application will serve you better than a college degree. Wiesner The wisdom that Pop shared with me many years ago was “You learn a lot more about things by keeping your ears, eyes and mind open and your mouth shut.” While the lesson is easily said, it is among the many things in life that I have found harder to exercise, but when I do, I am stronger for it. Upon my arrival at an HBA, I will often work my way around the room, meeting the folks who have come early, and then I seek a vantage point in the room to observe the interaction between those in the room and the stream of folks who are arriving for the evening meeting. It is amazing to hear the discussions that go on between the “You learn a lot more members, which can range from talking business to discussions about about things by their children, a parent who has been battling an illness or a HBA keeping your ears, member who is in need of help. eyes and mind open What I am saying is that our membership is made up of many individuals who genuinely care for each other and have friendships that and your mouth shut.” extend beyond the home building business. I have seen this dynamic for years in my local HBA, and for years I was just naïve enough to think that we were the only HBA to experience a relationship between our members on a deeper level. I was wrong, and in the almost 30 HBAs I have visited in the past year, I have found the same chemistry as back home. As I strive to visit each of our 60-plus locals, I have come to expect the same at each one. Among the many topics I have overheard (as I exercised Pop’s lesson of “ears open”) are the many ways that our local HBAs contribute to their communities. It could be a canned food drive, a winter coat drive, a raffle of playhomes to benefit a charity, a shelter for battered women or just supporting a number of organizations that provide affordable housing in our communities. Understand, the genuine care and affection we share is not limited to our fellow members. The evidence points to the care and concern that flows out of our HBAs and into our communities and provides a stable foundation for those who have fallen and need a gentle, caring hand up. You should be proud to be a member of your local HBA, and I encourage our members across North Carolina to continue the incredible work that we do in supporting our communities. Even in this troubled time, you can find a way to serve those in your community and turn the negative things you are dealing with into a positive source of energy for others. I am confident that my encouragement will not be lost on the many folks I have observed at HBA meetings, because I have concluded the generosity and care we exhibit is not something we do, but rather it embodies who WE ARE! In the end, you will receive much more than you give. It’s a pretty incredible feeling to experience. I want you to know that you make me proud to be serving as your President in this time. Keep up the great work of caring and sharing in your community and know the little things you do may very well be a huge answer to someone else’s problem.
Frank
May 2009
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North Carolina Builder 5
Capitol Insider by Lisa Martin, NCHBA Government Affairs Director
Home builders take message to D.C.
E
ach year the National Association of Home Builders organizes a Legislative Conference where home builders and industry professionals can meet with members of our Congressional delegation on matters of importance to our industry. Perhaps there is no time in recent history when this opportunity was more critical than now, when our industry is facing a crippling economic crisis. The overwhelming theme of the day was simple: The economy will not rebound until we get credit flowing again to the housing sector. Congress must Martin understand that housing is the key to our economic future – and that if housing is performing well, good things can happen. North Carolina once again had one of the largest delegations participating in Legislative Day, with more than 50 builders, officers and staff from our state meeting with all 13 of North Carolina’s members of the U.S. House of Representatives and both of North Carolina’s senators. Meetings were pre-arranged and ran throughout the day March 24, starting with a NAHB issues briefing at 7:45 a.m. and the last meeting of the day wrapping up at 5 p.m. As our members converged on the halls of Congress, here’s what we talked about:
State of the housing economy The nation’s economy is in the midst of a recession and an increase in housing production is critical to recovery. The national economy
will not recover until housing recovers. As of February 2009, more than 910,000 jobs have been lost in residential construction since the peak in residential construction employment in February 2006. In a year of construction, building 100 singlefamily homes in a typical U.S. metropolitan area creates $16 million in local income, $1.8 million in taxes and other revenue for local governments, and 284 local jobs. Once built, the new residents’ spending, and the ripple impact from that spending, increases economic activity $3.2 million a year and increases local government taxes and revenues by $648,000 per year. Home ownership is a path to increased wealth for many Americans and home equity is spread more evenly and across a larger share of Americans than any other form of wealth. Recommendations: Congress must reaffirm the vital part housing plays in the overall economy and its critical role in a national economic recovery. Our delegation is keenly aware of the critical role that home building plays in both the state and national economy.
Addressing the lending crisis Home builders and developers have reported dramatic deterioration in credit availability and intensifying pressure on borrowers with outstanding loans. Lenders are cutting off loans for viable new housing projects and producing unnecessary foreclosures and losses on acquisition, development and construction (AD&C) loans. In addition, there are increasing reports of tightening terms or conditions on
s Rep. David Price (D-4th District NC) talks with NCHBA members from his district.
outstanding loans. Federal banking regulators continue to maintain that they are not instructing institutions to stop making loans or to indiscriminately liquidate outstanding loans. Nevertheless, bank regulators have raised concerns about real estate lending and are encouraging institutions to increase capital and loan loss allowances and other measures to manage problem loans. Examiners are conducting more frequent bank examinations, and requiring institutions to get updated appraisals on AD&C projects and to increase loan loss reserves. Recommendations: • Regulators and lenders should provide leeway to residential construction borrowers who have loans in good standing by providing flexibility on re-appraisals and loan modifications; • Banks should account for how they are using TARP funds in lending on viable new projects and in working out more flexible terms to facilitate continued funding and eventual repayment of performing AD&C loans; • Congress should earmark up to $20 billion of future TARP requests to allow banks
t Rep. Sue Myrick (R-9th District NC) poses with a group of NCHBA members from her district.
Sen. Richard Burr addresses the NCHBA group during the NAHB Legislative Conference. 6 North Carolina Builder
May 2009
s Rep. Brad Miller (D-13th District NC) shares a laugh with a group of NCHBA members.
s A large group of NCHBA members meets with Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-5th District NC) at Legislative Day.
to avoid excessive equity calls and other adverse actions on performing loans; and • Congress should facilitate changes to improve the mark-to-market accounting process. NCHBA asked our Congressional delegation to sign a letter addressed to Treasury Secretary Geithner highlighting the constriction in terms and availability of AD&C loans. Rep. Brad Miller spearheaded the effort, and the letter was sent April 3. Along with Miller, N.C. Reps. Etheridge, Jones, Price, Foxx, McIntyre and Myrick signed the letter. NCHBA wishes to thank these members for their support.
federal budget proposal, entitled A New Era of Responsibility: Renewing America’s Promise, proposes to limit to 28 percent the tax rate at which taxpayers with incomes over $250,000 can claim itemized deductions. This limitation would reduce the value of the mortgage interest deduction (MID) and the real estate tax deduction. The proposal increases the after-tax cost of housing, thereby forcing down housing demand at the worst possible time. This undercuts the housing market, exerts more downward pressure on home values and works against efforts to stabilize housing and turn the economy around. Recommendations: Congress should reject the President’s recommendation that the MID
The mortgage interest deduction President
Obama’s
fiscal
year
2010
The North Carolina Home Builders Association
2009 Sponsor Club Members Diamond
and real estate tax deduction be limited for upper-income households. During this time of economic uncertainty, the housing sector continues to need reinforcement and further stimulus. NCHBA members were informed that there is little support, from either party, of the President’s proposal to reduce the value of the MID and real estate tax deduction.
Housing finance system reform Failed regulation of financial institutions and markets contributed to the collapse of the financial system — some areas of the system are overseen by multiple regulators, while others go (See CAPITOL INSIDER on page 8)
Bronze
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Thank you! May 2009
North Carolina Builder 7
Capitol Insider (continued from page 7) unmonitored. Reform discussions have also focused on reducing the number of banking charters and regulators, which NAHB supports as long as the future structure includes a housing finance focus. Recommendations: Retain a specific charter for institutions specializing in housing finance (thrift charter) and establish housing finance focus and expertise in any future bank regulatory structure. Congress must continue to provide support to the primary and secondary mortgage markets in order to ensure available and affordable mortgage credit in all geographic areas and under all economic circumstances.
Down-payment assistance reform In 2008, the law was changed to prohibit home sellers from contributing any part of a purchaser’s down-payment when using FHA loans. The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 stopped all down-payment assistance. Recommendations: NCHBA encouraged members to cosponsor H.R. 600 FHA SellerFinanced Down-Payment Reform Act.
Green building standard In 2005, NAHB published the National Green Home Building Guidelines as the first step toward creating a consensus on residential green building that could be implemented nationally on a voluntary basis. Recommendations: We encouraged our Congressional delegation to support funding for workforce training programs for residential green building that do not require mandatory affiliation with organized labor unions and
s NCHBA members meet with Rep. Walter Jones (R-3rd District NC) in his office. (At right) Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-2nd District NC) discusses housing issues with his constituents.
support increasing and extending key energy efficiency tax incentives for residential energy efficiency – Internal Revenue Code Sections 45L, 25C, 25D and 179D. NCHBA members also urged our delegation not to authorize the U.S. Department of Energy to develop a federal energy-efficiency code or amendments to the IECC or any other model energy code that would effectively be a federal mandate for energy efficiency in residential construction.
Card check Unions are viewing the residential construction industry as an untapped area of potential unionization. The Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) would eliminate the current requirement that secret ballot elections be held when unionizing workplaces, in favor of a majority “card check” process. The EFCA also amends the collective bargaining law to require that an employer and the new labor union reach a contract agreement within 90 days. If an agreement is not reached, and 30-day mediation is also unsuccessful, then the contract goes to binding arbitration. Being a Right-to-Work state, such as North
t Rep. Mike McIntyre, center, (D-7th District NC) takes time out to meet with NCHBA members.
Carolina, does not protect against EFCA — all of the provisions in the bill apply. Recommendations: NCHBA encouraged support for and/or co-sponsorship of H.R. 1176/S. 478 Secret Ballot Protection Act and opposition for H.R. 1409/S. 560 Employee Free Choice Act. NCHBA members thanked Representatives Butterfield, Etheridge, McIntyre and Shuler for not cosponsoring H.R. 1409 The Employee Free Choice Act. We expressed our opposition to card check to Representatives Kissell, Miller, Price and Watt, and asked them to reconsider their sponsorship of the EFCA. NCHBA members also thanked Representatives Coble, Foxx, Jones, McHenry and Myrick for their sponsorship of H.R. 1176 Secret Ballot Protection Act. NCHBA members thanked Sen. Richard Burr for his cosponsorship of S 498 Secret Ballot Protection Act in the Senate. Due to a scheduling conflict, our meeting with Sen. Kay Hagan was cut short. Sen. Hagan did not cosponsor S 560 The Employee Free Choice Act, but we did not get a chance to discuss the Card Check issue with her.
Thank you to our members The NCHBA Government Affairs staff wishes to thank those members who took the time to travel to Washington, D.C. and lobby on behalf of our industry. You truly made a difference! Our elected officials appreciate the contributions you make to our industry and your community, and they listen when you speak.Thank you again! 8 North Carolina Builder
May 2009
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North Carolina Builder 9
The essential tool for every homebuilder.
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10   North Carolina Builder
May 2009
Code Corner by Robert Privott, NCHBA Director of Codes and Construction
Quick Low Cost
Code book is available
T
he 2009 North Carolina Residential Building Code is available for purchase. Effective July 1, 2006, all N.C. Building Code book sales transactions (other than walk-in customers) will be made through the International Code Council Web site at http://www.iccsafe.org/e/promo. html?promoid=NCDOI.You may call the ICC Store (800) 786-4452 if you have questions. Walk-in customers only may purchase in person at the North Carolina Department of Insurance office located at 322 Chapanoke Road in Raleigh. Directions to the NCDOI office are found on the Web site at www.ncdoi.com.
Code council update
T
he North Carolina Building Code Council will meet June 9-10 at a location to be determined.The council will hold a work session at 9 a.m., Monday, June 8 followed by a public hearing at 1 p.m. The council meeting will be at 9 a.m., Tuesday, June 9. The agenda for the council meeting can be found about two weeks prior to the meeting at: http://www.ncdoi.com/OSFM/Engineering/ BCC/engineering_bcc_agenda.asp. Code changes to the 2009 North Carolina Residential Code will continue in the June issue of North Carolina Builder.
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NCHBA Legislative Conference is June 9
T
he North Carolina Home Builders Association Legislative Conference and 2nd Quarter Board Meeting will be held at the Renaissance Raleigh Hotel at North Hills June 9-10. The first day will consist of scheduled committee meetings. A reception for legislators will be held Tuesday evening. On Wednesday morning, members will visit the North Carolina General Assembly and meet with representatives and senators. The 2nd Quarter Board Meeting will follow in the afternoon. With so many issues facing our industry, including the current economic crisis, it is more important than ever to have our voices heard by our delegation. Don’t miss this chance. Room rates are $159 for single/double occupancy. Call the Marriott at (800) 236-2427 by May 18 and mention NCHBA to receive the group rate. The Renaissance Raleigh Hotel is located at 4100 Main at North Hills St., Raleigh, NC 27609.
May 2009
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15 graduate from North
C
ongratulations to the most recent graduates of the North Carolina Builder Institute. Since October, the educational arm of the North Carolina Home Builders Association has recognized 15 graduates with designations that set them apart from others in the industry. Bill Boulia Accredited Master Builder graduate Bill Boulia Enterprise Inc., Newport
Bill Boulia has owned and operated Bill Boulia Enterprise Inc. since May 1987. He is an unlimited general contractor and specializes in residential and commercial construction. Boulia is an active member of the National Association of Home Builders, Carteret County Home Builders Boulia Association, Economical Development Council of Carteret County, Carteret County Association of Realtors, Craven County Association of Realtors and the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce. In addition to his contracting company, Boulia owns and operates Boulia Enterprise Real Estate and Development, Inc. He is educated and active with recent wetland issues and is very interested in learning more about green building techniques. Maynard (Mark) Coats Accredited Master Builder graduate Lighthouse Custom Homes Inc., Clayton
Mark Coats began his construction career in 1991 and has been President of Lighthouse Custom Homes Inc. in Clayton since 2000. Coats is a member of both the Johnston County Home Builders Association and the Wilson County Home Builders Association. He was twice named Builder of the Year and Coats has won multiple Gold Parade of Homes awards. Richard Coley Accredited Master Builder graduate Hickory Nut Construction Inc., Lake Lure
Richard Coley, a graduate of Princeton University with a civil engineering degree, began his career in
12 North Carolina Builder
the real estate appraisal industry where he gathered extensive experience in market studies and income analysis. He then went on to become a general contractor with an unlimited license, building many homes across Western North Carolina. Coley is currently the president of Hickory Nut Coley Construction Inc., a construction and development company. After more than 25 years in the construction industry and as a resident of Rutherford County since 1988, Coley has forged strong relationships with local and regional agencies involved in construction development across Western North Carolina. He previously served as president of the Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce. George Gilleland Accredited Master Builder graduate Gilleland Builders Inc., Granite Falls
George Gilleland has been an active member of the home building industry for more than 40 years, first receiving his North Carolina general contractor license to do business as Gilleland Builders Inc. in 1991. He is an active member of the High Country Home Builders Association, serving as Gilleland a board member and president in 2008. He holds several professional designations, including CSP and CGB. Gilleland currently represents The Hardwood Co., a specialized building supply company, as a territory sales representative in western North Carolina. Eric Hausfeld Accredited Master Builder graduate Haus Builders Inc., Mooresville
Eric Hausfeld started out in the home building profession in 1987. He started Haus Builders in 2001 and has been steady with a referral base that has kept Haus Builders in the minds of many of his clients and their friends. Haus Builders specializes in new home construction, but also does remodeling, repairs and Hausfield even dabbles in handyman work for those ‘honey-do’ lists that seem to never get done.
Hausfeld is a member of the Lake Norman HBA and is an active member with the Green Builders Council. While attaining his Master Builder designation he also completed his Certified Green Professional designation through the state. Patrick Mann Accredited Master Builder graduate Action Services Construction Inc., Atlantic Beach
Patrick Mann is a licensed general contractor specializing in remodeling. His firm, Action Services Construction Inc., has served the Crystal Coast in residential and commercial construction for more than 25 years. Mann is active in NCHBA, currently serving as Region I Vice President. He has Mann also served as Chair for the Vocational Education, Building Codes and Regulatory Affairs committees. Carteret County HBA has twice named Mann Builder of the Year. He also has served as a Director and Building Chairman for the Crystal Coast Habitat for Humanity. Frank McLawhorn Accredited Master Builder graduate Frank McLawhorn Construction Co., Ayden
Frank McLawhorn has been in the construction industry for more than 20 years. His company, Frank McLawhorn Construction Co., specializes in custom homes and provides remodeling services. McLawhorn has been involved with the GreenvillePitt County Home Builders McLawhorn Association for more than 15 years, serving as President in 2003. He is also a member of the NAHB Builder 20 Club. Robert M. Mihaljevic Accredited Master Builder graduate Mihaljevic Construction, Charlotte
Robert Mihaljevic is a custom home builder in the Charlotte area, helping families make their house a home. Mihaljevic is a member of the Charlotte HBA. Mihaljevic
May 2009
Carolina Builder Institute Terry Patoka Accredited Master Builder graduate Direct Builders LLC, Denver
Joseph Dellinger Accredited Builder graduate LC Dellinger Building, Stanley
Terry Patoka started his career as a building professional in 1989 right out of college as a salesperson in Wisconsin. In 1996 he moved to the Charlotte area as general manager of the largest modular sales center in the country. Patoka purchased the sales center in January 2006, Patoka renaming it Direct Builders, while expanding into the stick-built side of the industry.
Joseph Dellinger is a third-generation custom builder and works with his father, Linden Conway Dellinger, at LC Dellinger Building. The business recently celebrated its 50th year in business. In addition to being an Accredited Master Builder graduate, Dellinger holds a Dellinger certified green professional designation that he earned through the Builder Institute.
Ron Smith Accredited Master Builder graduate RWS General Builders, Fayetteville
Ron Smith is a graduate of Southern Illinois University with a bachelor of science degree in industrial technology. He retired from the U.S. Air Force at Pope Air Force Base in North Carolina, and was employed by the U.S. Army at Simmons Army Airfield, Fort Bragg. Smith returned to his “saw Smith dust” roots and formed his building company in 1994. He is an EPA-certified Energy Star builder and holds a Certified Green Professional (CGP) designation. Thus far, his company has built 12 Energy Star-certified homes in Fayetteville. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Home Builders Association of Fayetteville, and as President of the Cumberland County Apartment Association.
Earn your designation, too! Are you interested in enhancing your professionalism and earning accreditation in your industry? Plan to attend the Fall 2009 NCBI session being held Sept. 16-18 in conjunction with the 21st Century Building Expo & Conference. For a complete list of course offerings turn to page 23 or visit our Web site at www.nchba.org and click on “Education.” May 2009
Eugene Martin Accredited Builder graduate Wave Development LLC, Southern Shores
Gene Martin founded Wave Development LLC in 2005 in Southern Shores. As a third-generation builder, Martin has more than 25 years of hands-on experience and virtually grew up building homes with his father and grandfather. He is a member of the Outer Banks Home Builders Association and the Remodelers Council of OBHBA. Forrest Seal Accredited Builder graduate Forrest Seal LLC, Kitty Hawk
Forrest Seal has been involved in the construction industry on the Outer Banks for more than 20 years. He does mainly custom residential single-family homes, light commercial work and remodeling. Seal is an active member of the Outer Banks Home Builders Association, currently serving as Seal the vice president, and served on the board two years prior chairing the Remodelers Council for the association.
Chad Vanne Accredited Builder graduate Stillwater Construction Inc., Hendersonville
Chad Vanne has 13 years of construction experience working as a carpenter, construction superintendent and eventually owning and managing Stillwater Construction Inc. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1995, Vanne began building homes Vanne as an Americorps volunteer for a nonprofit housing agency. Since that first year of volunteer service, he has built both affordable and multimillion dollar homes. Stillwater Construction Inc., a custom construction company, is experienced in a wide variety of construction methods and techniques used to achieve the same result: a well-designed, high-quality, fairpriced creation that reflects the clients’ personality. Kathy Craven-Snodgrass Accredited Associate graduate Piedmont Natural Gas, Winston-Salem
Kathy Craven-Snodgrass is a residential sales representative for Piedmont Natural Gas in WinstonSalem, where she has worked for more than 20 years. Craven-Snodgrass is an active HBA member on the local, state and national levels, having won the NAHB Associate of the Year award in Craven-Snodgrass 2006. She was inducted into the Associate Hall of Fame in 2000. She also has achieved the NAHB Certified Graduate Associate designation.
North Carolina Builder 13
14 North Carolina Builder
May 2009
A Step Ahead Build better relationships with these networking tips
T
he principal reason most associate members join their local HBA is to get business from builder members. However, it is not always easy and it is never automatic. Membership does not give an associate member the right to a builder’s business.What it does, rather, is give him or her the opportunity to seek business from builders. Many builders in turn will try to do business with an associate member, provided there is a favorable balance to him
in price, service and quality. Consider some of these basic principles in building your relationships with builder members:
Do: • Visit the builders regularly with good reason — do not waste their time. Don’t underestimate his or her interest in new products. • Keep the literature current. The builders need current information if they are going to use your product, not only to show their customers, but also for other suppliers or trade contractors who may be involved in installing your products. • Keep the builders informed if there are pricing or product changes. There has never been a builder who liked price increases, but they dislike surprises even more.Timely notice will allow them to adjust the budget. • Let the builder know immediately if a product is discontinued or going to be discontinued, and what the replacement options are. • Tell the builder immediately if a product or service is going to be delivered late. Stay in touch so you know when you and/or your product are needed. Remember that other suppliers and subcontractors may be affected when you are late. • Sell quality products and do not compromise your reputation with inferior products or services. • Be honest with the builders about what features or benefits they may gain by paying a little more. If your offering has deficiencies, tell them in advance so they can make adjustments.
• Get actively involved in the home builders association. Just as builders make their living from the building industry, so, too, do you. Getting involved not only benefits the industry as a whole, but also gets you the recognition you need from builder members. Regular meeting attendance will give you additional visibility. Devote some of your advertising budget to placing ads in the association’s newsletter. • Encourage pride and service throughout your company. You are judged by the attitude of everyone who works for you. Polite administrative staff, accounting staff and delivery people are greatly appreciated.
On the flip side: • Don’t speak negatively about your competitors or their products or services. They may be a personal friend of the builder or even a fellow member of the home builders association.We all have to prove ourselves to be accepted.You will not succeed by speaking negatively about your competition. Also, the builder may have been using your competitor’s product or service. By speaking negatively, you are saying that the builder was not very smart for using it. In either case, you are going to make the builder defensive. Instead, focus on making positive statements about your products or service. Provide the builder references of other builders who have been satisfied with your product, service, quality and price. • Don’t underestimate the builder’s interest in new products.
• Do not waste the builder’s time — take care of his or her needs quickly. When you make an appointment, be on time or call to say you will be late. A builder has to deal with a lot of suppliers and trade contractors.
• Don’t misrepresent the facts, or, to put it bluntly, don’t lie. Whether it’s about a delivery, what you or your product can do, or about price, never become an untrustworthy businessperson. Do not tell the builder you are offering the best price in town when you may have given someone else a better price. Prices can vary based on quantity, delivery and a variety of other factors, and builders know that.They do not want to be lied to any more than you do.
• Be knowledgeable. Try to understand the builder’s business. Is he building luxury homes or affordable housing? Take Accredited Associate Graduate (AAG) classes to stay informed of trends in the building industry and be a source of information. Find answers to a builder’s questions. Reliable information will keep the builder coming back to you.
Bottom line, selling to builders takes a lot of common sense and courtesy. Your membership in the home builders association is a tremendous asset to your business. By applying these basic rules to your sales strategies and actively participating in the association, you can greatly enrich your builder relationships, increase your sales opportunities and grow as a consummate professional.
May 2009
North Carolina Builder 15
, don, t thank us,
As you receive your dividend check, don’t forget to give yourself credit. You’re the one who made this year’s $3 million dividend possible. Because safety is one of your top priorities, it’s reflected in our bottom line. At Builders Mutual, we don’t just ask you to work safely—we give you the tools to make it happen. We hear our safety programs have set new industry standards: Fall Protection Certification, Builders University, our Risk Management CD—even on-site risk management consulting. But a safety program is only as good as those who participate in it. Since you’ve shared the responsibility, you share the reward—over $44 million to date. At a moment like this, aren’t you glad you have Builders Mutual? 16 North Carolina Builder
P.O. Box 150005 Raleigh, NC 27624-0005 (800) 809-4859 | www.buildersmutual.com
0192-0109-03
you ve earned it.
May 2009
Membership Defenders Unite! NCHBA gears up for National Membership Day!
A
By Chad D. Collins, 2009 Membership Committee Chair
s a small custom builder, I stand beside you noting that these challenging economic times have taken some hard swings at our industry, as well as our small business operating capital. We are operating on smaller budgets than most of us even thought possible. But we are doing it. Just the fact that you are holding this magazine stands firm that you are committed to surviving to see the other side of our current economy. I stand with you. It is at times like these that our membership, along with our involvement in our local home builders associations, is critical. We, as industry professionals, have to stick together and remind current and new members alike what tremendous benefits and resources are available through the HBA. From networking and professional support to powerful legislative advocacy on both the state and federal levels, now is not the time to let our membership slide but a great opportunity to stand together, defend membership and bring even more industry professionals into our family that we call our home builders association. Our HBA is our voice. It is our avenue to Washington.
Tuesday, May 19, is National Membership Day!
With extraordinary powers and an outstanding network, there’s nothing a superhero can’t do! Join the Membership Defenders, a powerful team of superheroes who fight for membership, strength and unity within our federation.This year, NAHB has developed a fun game for your local association to use in your quest for recruiting and retaining members. The Membership Defenders: City of Superheroes Game brings a new challenge never before waged on our members — to defend membership through our challenging economic environment. As added incentive this year, those who recruit and retain members from participating local associations will receive DOUBLE SPIKE CREDITS for March, April and May. In years past, NAHB has only doubled Spike credits during the month of May. However, due to the current membership climate this year, the NAHB Membership Committee has extended the participation As added incentive this year, period so our local associations and local councils can achieve those who recruit and retain greater numbers and more sustainable recruitment practices. members from participating local The 2009 membership campaign is designed to help associations will receive DOUBLE participating members discover their superpowers and truly SPIKE CREDITS for March, become Membership Defenders.A three-tiered prize structure April and May. is in place to give incentive and reward membership heroes who contribute to the strength of their local association and local councils. As always, the prizes are available, free of charge, to all participating local associations at the conclusion of the campaign. Just the mere fact alone that the HBA is receiving unsolicited new membership applications tells us there are potential new members out there that we are not reaching. Please join me and the membership defenders and become a superhero for your home builders association. Please take a minute to mark your calendars with a reminder for your association to call in your new member pledges to (800) 899-6242 on National Membership Day (Tuesday, May 19). Remember that calling in is also a requirement to ensure that recruiters and retainers are eligible for National Membership Day prizes. Last year, 100 percent of North Carolina’s local associations called in their new member pledges. Let’s repeat that great effort in 2009. For more information, visit www.nahb.org/membershipdefenders or contact Kathryn Atkinson, NCHBA Director of Membership Services, at (800) 362-7129 or katkinson@nchba.org. (You can reach Collins, who is president of Collins Design-Build Inc., at chad.d.collins@att.net.) May 2009
Defending membership The National Association of Home Builders’ upcoming annual membership drive — National Membership Day — is shaping up to be a tremendous effort to defend membership in these challenging times. North Carolina Home Builders Association members are gearing up to do their utmost to recruit and retain members during this year’s effort. The call-in portion of the effort is Tuesday, May 19. During last year’s event, which was focused on recruitment, 100 percent of NCHBA’s local associations called in their new member pledges. NCHBA ranked first among state associations in the nation with 780 members pledged. The Home Builders Association of Raleigh-Wake County came in third among the nation’s locals with 205 members pledged. In total, associations across the country recruited 6,930 new member pledges. This year, the campaign focus has expanded to include retention in National Membership Day efforts and rewards. Even NAHB’s individual councils are in on the action, with awards being presented to top recruiters on the 50+ Housing Council, Multifamily Housing Council, National Sales and Marketing Council, Remodelers Council, Women’s Council and Commercial Builders Council.
Mark your calendar now to become a Membership Defender!
Now’s the time to join! If you’re receiving this magazine for the first time, you’re either: a new member (we’re glad you’re here!) OR a nonmember (what are you waiting for?) For nonmembers receiving North Carolina Builder for the first time, we invite you to learn more about the association and its many benefits by reading the articles on this page and the ones that follow. May 19 is National Membership Day, a time when associations across the country put on the full-court press to bring in new members and retain their current ones. When you receive a call to join your local association, please give it careful consideration. The dues you pay are a small price for a fair business environment and the long-term success of your company and your industry. North Carolina Builder 17
Sign me up!
If you are involved in the home building industry in North Carolina, we invite you to join us as a member of your local home builders association, the North Carolina Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders. To become a member of these three fine organizations, you must first join the local home builders association serving your geographic area. You’ll find a list of these local associations on page 21. When you join your local association, you automatically become a member of all three levels of the NAHB federation: local, state and national. That’s three memberships for the price of one! If you’re interested in more information, please check the list of local HBAs on page 21 to determine which local you should join. You can then contact that association directly, or you can call Kathryn Atkinson, NCHBA Director of Membership Services, at (800) 6627129 or via e-mail at katkinson@nchba.org.
Builders are superheroes on the new-home front
T
he North Carolina Home Builders Association connects you, the builder, to the power of the state’s building industry. With two staff lobbyists ranking among the top 50 most effective in Raleigh, NCHBA works with your state legislators to educate them on the importance of the housing industry. With close to18,000 members, NCHBA has the strength in numbers to defeat excessive regulations and defend affordable housing initiatives – saving Builder members time and money.
Here are a few examples of why it pays to be a Builder member:
• Membership, representation and networking at the local, state, and national levels. • Complimentary subscription to North Carolina Builder, NCHBA’s monthly magazine, and to the national Builder Magazine. • Access to our many online e-newsletters, including Monday Briefing, Legislative Report and Scuttlebutt, as well as to NAHB’s Business of Building e/Source, Eye on the Economy, Monday Morning Briefing, Nation’s Building News Online, SmartLink and State and Local Reporter. • Ability to purchase insurance coverage through Builders Mutual Insurance Co., open only to HBA members. BMIC is endorsed by NCHBA to provide all commercial lines of insurance coverage to its members. Its WorkSafe Workers’ Comp is known as the industry standard and offers features such as job-site evaluations to help prevent workplace accidents and injuries. BMIC experts help you create the safest working environment possible and offer ongoing education and training. • A 10 percent discount on all bookstore products from BuilderBooks.com. Get the latest economic forecasts, demographic studies, consumer trend analyses, and learn about technological and management breakthroughs. • Access to the Sweets Residential Marketplace, the industry’s leading product and service information resource. • NAHB member discounts on products and services relevant to your business, from payroll processing to office supplies. • NAHB’s member-only online community provides members with up-toFor more information on the-minute news reports, reference materials and contact information. membership you can contact • Access to valuable economic and forecasting information to understand Kathryn Atkinson. NCHBA Director current and future trends, legal assistance and individual of Membership Services, at (800) consultation with any of NAHB’s 300-plus staff experts 662-7129, or via e-mail at on more than 500 industry subjects. katkinson@nchba.org • Builder 20, Remodeler 20 or Multifamily 20 Clubs let you find out how your financials compare with similar businesses in noncompeting markets • Educational opportunities to advance your professionalism. Choose from one-hour workshops, three-day conferences or work toward a designation, like the NAHB Certified Green Professional (CGP) or Accredited Master Builder (AMB), by participating in the North Carolina Builder Institute. For current members on the Defenders team, • Free admission to the 21st take a look at what you can capture during National Century Building Expo Membership Day — in addition to double SPIKE credits: & Conference, one of the largest industry trade shows 2+ Spike Credits - Round contemporary desk clock with in the Southeast. American Dream rotating as second hand. • An opportunity for your homes, communities 4+ Spike Credits - Joist insulated day pack picnic cooler with and marketing a pocket knife, cutting board and bread knife. professionals to shine through the annual 6+ Spike Credits - Constructo cookout apron kit with insulated pocket for STARS Awards beverages including a detachable bottle opener, paddle oven mit and towel. Competition.
18 North Carolina Builder
May 2009
Affiliates are defenders, too!
Associates unite to defend the industry
Y
our business thrives when builders build.The North Carolina Home Builders Association is dedicated to enhancing the climate for housing and the building industry, and to promoting policies that will keep housing a national priority.
Here are a few examples of why it pays to be an Associate member: • Networking on the local, state and national levels — take advantage of the many opportunities to meet colleagues and future clients.Your participation in association activities will help to build your reputation and business. • The “Do Business With a Member” campaign encourages builders and remodelers to work with Associate members. • Access to our many online e-newsletters, including Monday Briefing, Legislative Report and Scuttlebutt, as well as to NAHB’s Business of Building e/Source, Eye on the Economy, Monday Morning Briefing, Nation’s Building News Online, SmartLink and State and Local Reporter. • Complimentary subscription to NCHBA’s monthly magazine, North Carolina Builder. • Learn more about the housing industry by taking Certified Graduate Associate (CGA) professional designation classes through the North Carolina Builder Institute. The CGA will improve your professional standing and give you the opportunity to take classes with builders and remodelers. Take advantage of books, educational materials, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, and workshops from NCHBA and NAHB to keep your competitive edge. • Discounted member rates to exhibit in the 21st Century Building Expo & Conference, one of the largest industry trade shows in the Southeast. • Builders Mutual Insurance Co. is endorsed by NCHBA to provide all commercial lines of insurance coverage to its members. Its WorkSafe Workers’ Comp is known as the industry standard and offers features such as job site evaluations to help prevent workplace accidents and injuries. BMIC experts help you create the safest working environment possible and offer ongoing education and training. • A 10 percent discount on products from BuilderBooks.com -- the latest business management tools, demographic studies and consumer trend analyses to keep you one step ahead of your competition. • The NAHB Member Advantage discount program offers year-round discounts from many companies including GM, Dell, Pitney Bowes, Hertz, DHL, Paychex, and more. • Rent a mailing list from NAHB at member-discounted prices. • Keep up-to-date on the latest industry developments with access to members-only content on www.nahb.org, including up-to-the-minute news reports, economic and forecasting information, and networking resources. • Access to valuable legal advice, technical assistance and individual consultation with any of NAHB’s 300-plus staff experts on more than 500 industry subjects. May 2009
North Carolina Home Builders Association members pride themselves on their involvement in the industry, and they pass that pride onto their employees. The Affiliate member category was designed to reach out to the employees of Builder and Associate members, enabling more industry professionals to reap the rewards of association membership, at a fraction of the cost of a full membership.
Here are a few examples of why it pays to be an Affiliate member: • E-newsletters, including Monday Briefing, Legislative Report and Scuttlebutt, as well as NAHB’s Nation’s Building News Online. • North Carolina Builder, NCHBA’s monthly magazine. • Opportunities to advance your professionalism from both the North Carolina Builder Institute and NAHB’s University of Housing. • Special member pricing on products from BuilderBooks.com – an official Web site of the National Association of Home Builders. For “Books that Build Your Business,” this is the trusted online store for the best in books, software and digital products for today’s progressive builders, developers, contractors and building industry professionals. • Discounts on products and services to use for business or home using the Member Advantage program. • Exclusive NAHB member-only login privileges to access the online community at www.nahb.org, providing members with up-to-the-minute news reports, reference materials and contact information. • Access to valuable economic and forecasting information to understand current and future trends, legal assistance and individual consultation with any of NAHB’s 300+ staff experts on over 500 industry subjects. Affiliate membership dues vary from local HBA to local HBA, so please contact your local association for its affiliate dues structure. Not all local associations offer affiliate membership.
North Carolina Builder 19
Top reasons to join your HBA
Unite with fellow professionals to defend the housing industry
N
orth Carolina Home Builders Association members get the very best information, advocacy, education and networking opportunities. If you aren’t yet a member, read on for some top reasons why you should join NCHBA today. If you already belong, here’s a refresher on all the benefits your membership brings you.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Three-in-one membership Powerful advocacy Critical news and information Access to competitively priced insurance Invaluable networking opportunities
1. Three-in-one membership When you join your local association, you automatically become a full member at the state and national level. That’s three memberships for the price of one. All three associations offer plenty of resources to help each member make the most of their investment and connect with the benefits they value most.
2. Powerful advocacy With two staff lobbyists ranking among the top 50 most effective in Raleigh, NCHBA works with your state legislators to educate them on the importance of the housing industry. With almost 18,000 members, NCHBA has the strength in numbers to defeat excessive regulations and defend affordable housing initiatives – saving members time and money. Plus, NAHB, currently ranked No. 11 on Fortune Magazine’s “Power 25” Advocates, has the grassroots strength of more than 200,000 members to defeat excessive regulations and defend affordable housing initiatives on Capitol Hill.
3. Critical news and information For more than 50 years, NCHBA has been the state’s leading source for housing industry information. NCHBA members use a variety of ways to stay connected to local, state and national industry information, including publications, e-newsletters, exclusive Web site content, bulletins, special reports, e-mail alerts and financial data, among others. Up-todate information, when you want it, how you want it!
4. Access to insurance products offered only to members Builders Mutual Insurance Co. is endorsed by NCHBA to provide all commercial lines of insurance coverage to its members. Its WorkSafe Workers’ Comp is known as the industry standard and offers features such as job site evaluations to help prevent workplace accidents and injuries. BMIC experts help you create the safest working environment possible and offer ongoing education and training.
20 North Carolina Builder
6. 7. 8. 9.
Nationally recognized educational programs Green building resources Access to expert advisers Exposure to the latest building industry products and services
5. Invaluable networking opportunities As an alliance of 200,000-plus members nationally and almost 18,000 statewide, the state and national associations represent a one-stop networking shop! From local networking receptions and monthly membership meetings to regional trade shows, national committees and special-interest councils, HBA membership provides hundreds of ways for you to meet and build relationships with fellow professionals, customers and suppliers.
6. Nationally recognized educational programs In our competitive marketplace, differentiation is the key to success and NAHB’s nationally recognized education programs offer just that. The NAHB University of Housing offers hundreds of educational programs in a variety of formats, including a number of designation programs, to help members gain and keep a competitive edge. Through NCHBA’s North Carolina Builder Institute, you’ll find the curriculum, instructors and prestige to boost your success. Learn how to reduce costs, increase your profit margins and effectively deal with today’s toughest issues through your industry’s continuing education opportunities.
7. Green building resources NAHB provides information and education on sustainable home building using renewable materials prudently to conserve energy and environmental resources. In February 2008, NAHB unveiled the NAHB National Green Building Program and the University of Housing Certified Green Professional designation for builders, remodelers and other members of the home building industry. Classes are offered through the North Carolina Builder Institute. In addition, several local associations and the state association have developed green building councils.
8. Access to expert advisers Wouldn’t it be great to have a team of industry experts at your disposal to address your specific business questions for free? When you become a member, you get instant access to NCHBA’s highly qualified legislative and regulatory staff, as well as to NAHB’s distinguished economists, legal research staff and financial experts.
10. Industry-specific publications 11. Professional recognition 12. Member discounts
9. Exposure to the latest building products and services You don’t have to leave the state to find a topnotch product showcase and educational conference. NCHBA’s annual 21st Century Building Expo & Conference is one of the largest trade shows in the Southeast, with more than 350 exhibitors and a full schedule of educational programs. Admission is free to builder members. You’ll also have the opportunity to attend NAHB’s trade shows and expositions at a low member price, including the International Builders’ Show (IBS) the Remodeler’s Show, the International Commercial Construction Expo (ICCON), the Seniors Housing Show, the Multifamily Trends Conference and more.
10. Industry publications Knowledge is your best defense in this rapidly changing industry. NCHBA keeps you up-to date on statewide happenings with its monthly North Carolina Builder magazine, while through NAHB you’ll receive Nation’s Building News Online, and (if you’re a builder) a free subscription to Builder Magazine. Plus, members have access to a variety of publications on specific industry segments such as sales and marketing, remodeling, commercial building, building systems, land development and more.
11. Professional recognition Through the annual STARS Awards Competition, held in conjunction with the 21st Century Building Expo & Conference, your outstanding homes, communities, marketing efforts and more can be recognized and applauded by your colleagues throughout the state and region. There are also a number of award programs offered at the national level.
12. Member discounts Reduce your day-to-day business costs with member-only discounts through NAHB. Your membership entitles you to discounts on car rentals, office products, computers, payroll services, overnight delivery and more. Participating, nationally known companies include GM, Dell Computers, Pitney Bowes, Williams Scotsman and Hertz, to name a few.
May 2009
Alamance-Caswell County HBA Susan Black P.O. Box 1713 Burlington, NC 27216 (336) 227-1336
HBA of Columbus County Cheryl Pierce 115 W. Main St. Whiteville, NC 28472 (910) 642-7761
HBA of Albemarle & Stanly County Judy Hudson P.O. Box 923 Baldwin, NC 28009 (704) 422-3238
HBA of Craven & Pamlico Counties Janie Figueroa P.O. Box 12553 New Bern, NC 28562 (252) 637-5600
Alleghany County HBA Jacob Irwin 292 Collins Road Sparta, NC 28675 (336) 657-0207
HBA of Davidson County Monica Cauble P.O. Box 498 Lexington, NC 27293 (336) 249-1731
Appalachian HBA Sandra Hook P.O. Box 397 Murphy, NC 28906 (828) 837-3866
Davie County HBA Tracy Seats 2742 US Hwy 158 Mocksville, NC 27028 (336) 940-4053
Ashe County HBA Kelly St. Germain P.O. Box 1450 Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 620-2000
HBA of Durham, Orange & Chatham Counties Nick Tennyson 20 W. Colony Place, Suite 180 Durham, NC 27705 (919) 493-8899
Asheboro-Randolph County HBA Kim Farmer 1037-C Hammer Ave. Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 629-0977 Asheville HBA Caroline Sutton P.O. Box 9722 Asheville, NC 28815 (828) 299-7001 Brunswick County HBA Debbie Florence 64 Union School Road Shallotte, NC 28470 (910) 579-5544 Cabarrus County BIA Ann Crenella P.O. Box 244 Concord, NC 28026 (704) 792-1133 Caldwell County HBA LaRae Eldreth 424 Hudson Heights Hudson, NC 28638 (828) 217-9446 Carteret County HBA Teri Edwards P.O. Box 1348 Morehead City, NC 28557 (252) 726-1475 HBA of Charlotte Mark Baldwin 425-A Sharon Amity Road Charlotte, NC 28211 (704) 362-0011 HBA of Cleveland County Mickie Bouzon P.O. Box 3147 Shelby, NC 28151 (704) 476-2747
May 2009
HBA of Fayetteville Natalie Woodbury 2935 Breezewood Ave. Suite 100 Fayetteville, NC 28303 (910) 826-0648 Franklin County HBA Rosemary Champion 205 S. Bickett Blvd. Louisburg, NC 27549 (919) 496-0125 HBA of Gaston County Linda Lu Myers 1418 South York Road Gaston, NC 28052 (704) 867-0601 Greensboro BA Cheryl Collins P.O. Box 41135 Greensboro, NC 27409 (336) 855-6255 Greenville-Pitt County HBA Sharon Craft 1913 Turnbury Drive Greenville, NC 27858 (252) 756-7915 Harnett County HBA Lucrecia Jackson 902-C West Broad St. Dunn, NC 28334 (910) 897-2661 HBA of Haywood County Joyce Damon 52 Walnut St. Suite 4 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 454-0221
Hendersonville HBA Dottie Hensley P.O. Box 1172 Hendersonville, NC 28793 (828) 697-9513
Moore County HBA Meredith Sledz 10022 NC Hwy 211 East Aberdeen, NC 28315 (910) 944-2992
Rockingham County HBA Karen Carter P.O. Box 492 Eden, NC 27289 (336) 342-8298
Transylvania County HBA Patsy Sexton P.O. Box 1174 Brevard, NC 28712 (828) 862-3239
Hickory-Catawba Valley HBA Chip Hardin 3145 Tate Blvd. SE Hickory, NC 28602 (828) 322-6482
HBA of Northeastern North Carolina Sheryl Ann Lovitt P.O. Box 1965 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 (252) 453-6668
Rocky Mount HBA Karen Breedlove P.O. Box 8850 Rocky Mount, NC 27804 (252) 451-1925
Union County HBA Angelia Hudson 2560 West Roosevelt Blvd., Suite A Monroe, NC 28110 (704) 296-0404
High Country HBA Susan Miller P.O. Box 3135 Boone, NC 28607 (828) 297-6566
Onslow County HBA Jan Quinn 825 Gum Branch Road Suite 136 Jacksonville, NC 28540 (910) 347-7101
High Point Area BA TBA P.O. Box 1877 High Point, NC 27261 (336) 885-5687 Iredell County HBA Bunny Boyd P.O. Box 7167 Statesville, NC 28687 (704) 881-0535 Jackson County HBA Cheryl Moss P.O. Box 1073 Cashiers, NC 28717 (828) 743-0278 Johnston County HBA Sherry Pinney-Phillips P.O. Box 1746 Smithfield, NC 27577 (919) 934-1938 Kinston HBA Theresa Pressly P.O. Box 6067 Kinston, NC 28501 (252) 527-3281 Lake Norman HBA Larry Airey 836 D. Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 (704) 664-5622 Lincoln County HBA Vicki Cochran P.O. Box 792 Lincolnton, NC 28093 (704) 732-7709 Macon County HBA Tammy Holland P.O. Box 1144 Franklin, NC 28744 (828) 524-4318 Martin County HBA Pam Roberson 14698 US Hwy 64 Williamston, NC 27892 (252) 792-3006 McDowell County HBA Diane Spencer P.O. Box 507 Marion, NC 28752 (828) 803-0082
Outer Banks HBA Maxine Rossman 105 W. Airstrip Road Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 (252) 449-8232 HBA of Raleigh-Wake County Tim Minton 5580 Centerview Drive, Suite 115 Raleigh, NC 27606 (919) 233-2033 Richmond County HBA Allen Moore 102 James Ave. Hamlet, NC 28345 (910) 995-6853 Roanoke Chowan HBA Jimmy Raleigh 941 Elm Grove Road Colerain, NC 27924 (252) 332-4370 Roanoke Valley HBA Bettye Benton 105 Charleston Place Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870 (910) 541-0190 Robeson County HBA Jeffrey Britt P.O. Box 1284 Lumberton, NC 28359 (910) 671-3474
Roxboro-Person County HBA Donald Wilson 333 S. Lamar St. Roxboro, NC 27573 (336) 599-0244 Rutherford County HBA Jean Carpenter 123 Park Lane Drive Rutherfordton, NC 28139 (828) 287-5927 Salisbury-Rowan HBA Mac Butner P.O. Box 1334 Salisbury, NC 28145 (704) 633-1069 Sampson County HBA Heather Merritt 46 Massey Drive Bladenboro, NC 28320 (910) 874-3415 Sanford Area HBA Gary Wicker P.O. Box 1084 Sanford, NC 27330 (919) 708-5252 Scotland County HBA Janie Carroll 9000 NC Hwy 20 Lumber Bridge, NC 28357 (910) 988-6419 Surry County HBA Judy Key 3104 Ararat Road Ararat, NC 27007 (336) 374-2955
Vance-Granville County HBA Amy Williams P.O. Box 803 Oxford, VA 27565 (919) 603-5081 Wayne County HBA Dawn Summerlin P.O. Box 1961 Goldsboro, NC 27533 (919)735-1991 HBA of Western Piedmont Bob Ramsey P.O. Box 14 Morganton, NC 28680 (828) 874-2580 Wilkes County HBA Marshall Long P.O. Box 902 Wilkesboro, NC 28697 (336) 667-5455 Wilmington-Cape Fear HBA Donna Girardot P.O. Box 3101 Wilmington, NC 28406 (910) 799-2611 Wilson County HBA Linda Smith P.O. Box 7011 Wilson, NC 27895 (252) 243-0375 HBA of Winston-Salem Jerry Herman 220 Charlois Blvd. Winston-Salem, NC 27103 (336) 768-5942
Find your local HBA
T
here are 65 local HBAs and chapters in North Carolina. These are grouped together by geographic region, with each region represented by a Regional Vice President who sits on the North Carolina HBA Executive Committee and Board of Directors. You’ll find the contact information for each local HBA, as well as the name of its executive officer, listed here. Visit www.nchba.com for more local HBA information and links to their Web sites.
North Carolina Builder 21
“ D o n’t watch it ha p p m ak e it happ e n .”e n –
An organization’s ability to learn, and translate that learning into action rapidly, is the ultimate competitive advantage. Jack Welch (business leader and author)
21st Century Building Expo & Conference Meet Current Challenges with a New Appr ach Exhibits: September 17-18, 2009 Conference: September 16-18, 2009 Charlotte Convention Center • Charlotte, NC • New concepts and solutions • Innovative products and trends Information and Registration: www.21BuildingExpo.com 1.800.662.7129
• Networking with industry professionals Presented by the North Carolina Home Builders Association
$10,000 Grand Prize
22 North Carolina Builder
Golf Tournament
STARS Awards Gala
May 2009
21CBEC is perfect place to learn
T
he home building industry is one that is ever-changing, especially now in a tough economic climate. Builders and s During last year’s 21CBEC, other industry professionals must do everything they can Michael Strong of Texas taught to set themselves apart from the competition and adapt a green building course. to the changing marketplace. The 21st Century Building Expo & Conference Sept. 16-18 in Charlotte, offers a wide selection of general session seminars and continuing education courses on the latest topics in the home building industry. “We think our educational programs are some of the best in the country,” said Deborah Alford, NCHBA Director of Exhibitions and Education. “Students will have a chance to attend any number of the 50-plus seminars and professional designation courses offered over the threeday conference. This is an opportunity you will not want to miss as you gain knowledge and research solutions to help survive in this economic downturn.”
General session seminars Home building topics are scheduled for the general session seminars on hot topics from “Certifying Your Green Home” to “Thriving in Times of Tidal Waves.” Industry experts will bring you the latest information through hands-on workshops and interactive learning sessions that will help you excel in business.
NCBI/NAHB courses 21CBEC offers courses for those interested in attaining professional designations from the North Carolina Builder Institute (NCBI) or the National Association of Home Builders Univerity of Housing. Designations are offered for not just the builder, but industry associates and residential superintendents as well. Why should you consider earning a designation? Designees reap the rewards of staying up-to-date on the latest developments in business, building methods and technology, while conveying to clients the know-how and professional dedication required to earn a designation. The opportunity to network with expert instructors and other professionals within the home building industry is also a huge advantage. “Taking the NCBI courses with other builders and professionals in our industry has been very insightful,” said participant Robert Zarnoch of Legacy Builders. “Sharing information between classmates has been as helpful and educational as the classes themselves.The instructors are top-notch educators and well-informed about our challenges in business today.”
Courses are offered at 21CBEC to achieve the following designations: • Accredited Associate • Accredited Master Associate • Accredited Builder • Accredited Master Builder • Accredited Residential Superintendant • Certified Graduate Associate • Certified Graduate Builder • Certified Green Professional s The NAHB Green Building for Building • Graduate Master Builder Professionals course attracted a record crowd • Certified Graduate Remodeler at the 2008 21CBEC. • Master Certified New Home Sales Professional. At right and continued on page 24 is a list of general session seminar topics and NCBI/NAHB courses offered. For additional information, visit the 21CBEC Web site at www.21buildingexpo.com. May 2009
General session seminars: Advanced Marketing Strategies for Professional Builders Speaker: Paul Montelongo Certifying Your Green Home: Details, Details, Details Speaker: Dan McFarland Cost Effective Techniques for Green Building Speaker: Steve Easley Cost Saving Techniques for Wood Frame Construction in High Wind Areas Speaker: David Lewis CRM & Sales Systems, Real World Unedited Speaker: Erik Cofield Emerging Trends for Small Volume Builders Speaker:Tom Stephani How to Use New Technolgy to Increase Sales Speaker: Jerry Rouleau Liar, Liar Pants on Fire Speaker: Steve Easley Netiquette: Common Courtesy Meets the 21st Century Speaker:Tammie Smoot OSHA Top 10 Citations Speaker: Sean Purcell Platinum Performance: Setting Yourself Apart Speaker: Beverly Koehn Residential Code Update Speaker: Robert Privott Romancing Financing: What you Need to Know to Close More Sales Speaker:Thomas Richey Sales & Marketing for Small Volume Builders Speaker:Tom Stephani Successful Green Remodeling Through the Building Performance Institute Certification Speaker: Scott Suddreth Tax Information for Small Construction Speaker: Evelyn Williamson The Four Secrets of Top Performing Home Building Companies Speaker: Bob Whitten Thriving in Times of Tidal Waves Speaker: Beverly Koehn Using the Laws of Attraction to Sell in any Building Economy Speaker: Paul Montelongo Value Engineering Your Plans & Process Speaker: Patrick Miller NCBI courses: Legal Structures & Tax Accounting – BM101 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor:Tom McCuiston Basic Accounting for Builders – BM103 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Debbie Combos The Faces of Survival – BM205 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Greg Isenhour The ABCs of Building Quality Concrete Floors & Driveways – BT101 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Roberto Nunez Best Practices – BT103 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Dan McFarland An Introduction to Green Building – BT201 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Steve Monroe (See 21CBEC COURSES on page 24) North Carolina Builder 23
21CBEC Courses
Shine Brightly at the 2009 STARS Awards Gala during the 21st Century Building Expo & Conference Wednesday, September 16, 2009
For more information, contact Kathryn Atkinson at (800) 662-7129 or katkinson@nchba.org www.21buildingexpo.com
24 North Carolina Builder
(continued from page 23) Green Building Components – BT202 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Dan McFarland Advanced Computer Construction Management – CA301 (AMA, AMB) Instructor: Cathy Judson Planning for Outstanding Service – CS101 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor:Wallace West Exceeding Your Customers’ Expectations – CS201 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor:Wallace West Blue Print Reading – DS102 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: David Smith Making a Development Deal Work – DV301 (AMA, AMB) Instructor: Greg Isenhour Remodeling Can Be Fun – DV302 (AMA, AMB) Instructor: Erik Anderson Internet Marketing for Building Professionals - MK202 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: John DiCristo Managing Time:Your Key to Success – PM101 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Erik Anderson Take Off to Higher Profits – PM102 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Greg Isenhour Safety Pays: A Practical Approach – PM105 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Sean Purcell Building Codes – PM107 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Robert Privott Completing Your Projects on Time – PM201 (AA, AB) Instructor: Erik Anderson What Does It Really Cost? – PM202 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Greg Isenhour Getting the Best from Your Hispanic Workforce – PM206 (AA, AB, ARS) Instructor: Ann Cooper Trade Contractor Relationships – PM303 (AMA, AMB) Instructor: Steve Monroe NAHB courses: Business Management for Building Professionals, CGA, CGB Instructor: Michael Strong Green Building for Building Professionals, CGA, CGB Instructor: Michael Strong Financial Management, GMB Instructor:Tom Stephani Profitable Business through Quality Practices, GMB Instructor:Tom Stephani Project Management, CGA, CGB, CGR Instructor: Paul Montelongo Effective Marketing on a Shoestring Budget, CGA, CGB, Master CSP Instructor: Beverly Koehn Customer Service, CGA, CGB, Master CSP Instructor: Beverly Koehn
May 2009
Members compete during BUILD-PAC month
M
ay is BUILD-PAC month and during those four weeks local associations will be competing against each other to see who can raise the most money and have the highest participation for BUILD-PAC. Local associations are broken down into four groups based on their 2009 fundraising goal. This promotes competition among similarly sized associations. Prizes will be awarded to the winner of each category in each group. The categories are: • Highest percentage of member participation between May 1 – May 31 • Highest percentage of goal raised between May 1 – May 31 • Most new contributors* between May 1 – May 31 The winner in each of the four groups of local associations will have the option of receiving the prize money to go toward their local BUILDPAC reserve or their general fund. This is a great way to earn some extra money for your association! Remember that for every dollar given to BUILD-PAC, 30 cents goes directly into the local reserve account of your local association. Local reserve accounts work at the local level to help local candidates chosen by your association. This year we are focused on broadening participation in BUILD-PAC – it is our hope to get at least $10 from each member for this important advocacy program. If you have ever thought about supporting BUILD-PAC, this is the month and the time to do it! Contact your local association to find out what it is doing to raise money for BUILD-PAC! *A new BUILD-PAC contributor is defined as an individual who has not given to BUILDPAC in the previous five years (May 1, 2004 – April 30, 2009).The North Carolina State Board of Elections reporting software will be the source of information. May 2009
2009 NCHBA build-pac Major Contributors (Pledges/Contributions received as of April 8, 2009)
2 Knights of the Round Table ($4,000 per year) Tom Gipson Raleigh-Wake County HBA
Frank Wiesner Durham-OrangeChatham Cos./RaleighWake County HBAs
4 Capitol Club ($2,500 per year) Andy Ammons Raleigh-Wake County HBA
Lyle Gardner Raleigh-Wake County HBA
Zac Koenig Jackson County HBA
Richard Van Tassel Raleigh-Wake County HBA
Joseph Iannone Raleigh-Wake County HBA Rick Judson Charlotte HBA Lisa Martin North Carolina HBA Blake Massengill Raleigh-Wake County HBA Tim Minton Raleigh-Wake County HBA Craig Morrison Durham-OrangeChatham Cos. HBA Charles Mullen Rocky Mount HBA Paul Mullican Winston-Salem HBA David Pressly Iredell County HBA Ray Rhodes Sanford HBA
Brian Robinett Lake Norman HBA John Schlichenmaier Raleigh-Wake County HBA Cindy Sheldon Raleigh-Wake County HBA Rick Shields Lake Norman HBA Craig Stevens Wilmington-Cape Fear HBA Jim Stuart Raleigh-Wake County HBA Nick Tennyson Durham-OrangeChatham Cos. HBA Jackie Trinchitella Fayetteville HBA
37 President’s Circle ($1,000 per year) Danny Adams Moore County HBA Linda Lee Allan Fayetteville HBA Dent Allison Hickory-Catawba Valley HBA Jeff Ammons Raleigh-Wake County HBA Rusty Ammons Raleigh-Wake County HBA Kevin Annas Caldwell County HBA Bunny Boyd Iredell County HBA Harold Brewington Fayetteville HBA Kurt Burger Raleigh-Wake County HBA
Mike Carpenter North Carolina HBA Elizabeth Cubler Outer Banks HBA Jim Derrickson Raleigh-Wake County HBA Nadine DiIorio Charlotte HBA Ralph Doggett Alamance-Caswell HBA Don Fraley Raleigh-Wake County HBA Tom Granger Hickory-Catawba Valley HBA Sam Hagedon Outer Banks HBA Karl Haslinger Charlotte HBA Gary Hill Greensboro BA
What is BUILD-PAC?
BUILD-PAC is the political fund-raising arm of the North Carolina Home Builders Association. It is a political action committee with the purpose of financially supporting political candidates at the state and local levels who support the home building industry. BUILD-PAC is completely independent and nonpartisan. Candidates are judged strictly on their merits. BUILD-PAC’s mission is to elect pro-housing, free enterprise candidates who will work to protect the business of those in the home building industry. When an individual makes a personal contribution to BUILD-PAC, 30 percent of the contribution is set aside for the local association to use for local campaigns. NCHBA and BUILD-PAC are constantly fighting for members and their businesses to: • Prevent burdensome and unnecessary regulations. • Defeat impact fees and transfer taxes that would increase the cost of homes. • Allow communities to grow vibrant and strong. • Keep members in business. Make your personal contribution today. For more information, visit www.nchba.com or contact Erin Jones at (800) 662-7129 or ejones@nchba.org North Carolina Builder 25
Knowledge Builder Tips from your industry experts at Builders Mutual
Down in the trenches
N
ational Membership Day on May 19 reminds us why we ever banded together to form home builders associations across America in the first place. Together, we promote the best interests of our great industry. Fundamentally, we look out for one another. Sure, this industry promotion and policymaking takes place at the legislature, but looking out for one another starts in the trenches, literally. It’s no coincidence that you hear people using the war analogy of being “down in the trenches” when they talk about tough, dangerous work. Developers, excavation contractors, utility contractors, masons and even plumbers know the dangers of working in the trenches. Contractors stay busy dodging “bullets” on a daily basis in the trenches. A sudden cave-in can trap or even crush a worker. Asphyxiation from the lack of oxygen or the inhalation of toxic fumes threatens workers, too. The danger of an explosion or electrocution looms because of the underground utilities. Surprisingly, even drowning poses a risk. Water rushing into a trench can quickly overtake a worker. Working down in the trenches means putting your life on the line. According to OSHA, the fatality rate for excavation work is 112 percent higher than for general construction. Luckily, sloping, benching and shoring systems help mitigate the risks, but only when employed properly. So, remember to look out for one another while trenching or doing excavation work. Your knowledge of the pitfalls just might help someone dodge a bullet.
Top trenching and excavation “pitfalls” 1. No independent soil test
Developers commission soil tests and make them available to other subs, but seasoned excavation contractors conduct soil tests of their own. Often, contractors in the early years of their businesses cut this corner to save some money, which may prove very costly in the long run.
2. No daily inspections
Before work begins, every trench must be inspected by a competent person daily. What qualifies this competent person, often the superintendent, to conduct — and document — an inspection? Training. The best superintendents have soil analysis and protective systems training. Not only do they have the training to identify the hazards; they have the authority to eliminate them.
3. Inadequate benching or sloping
OSHA requires proper benching or sloping, based on soil class, for trenches five feet and deeper. How often have you witnessed trenches of that depth with vertical walls and no benching or sloping?
4. Improperly placed spoil piles
Placing spoil piles a minimum of two feet from the excavation site causes a minor inconvenience. So, why go to the trouble? Spoil piles add height and weight to a trench wall. Consider a three-foot trench with a two-foot spoil pile, placed directly on top of the trench wall. Not only have you compromised the integrity of the soil, but OSHA will measure your trench at five feet, instead of your original three, and you have now failed to meet its standards for a five-foot trench.
The combination of the vibration from your excavation equipment and the added weight of the soil from the spoil pile may exploit a small fissure in the soil, causing a cave-in. While these seemingly shallow trench depths may seem trivial, they deserve attention. A cave-in may not crush a worker entirely, but they have trapped many workers who have needed post-accident knee and hip reconstruction.
5. Improper trench box use
Read the manufacturer’s instructions for all types of shoring equipment, including depth, capacity and pressure thresholds. The top of the trench box must be at least 18 inches above the start of the slope; otherwise, the trench box that was designed to save a life becomes the coffin in which a worker gets buried.
6. Improper trench box access
Workers often make the critical mistake of using a trench box to protect themselves, but they pass through an unprotected area of the trench to access it. Don’t make the same mistake!
7. No ladders, stairways, ramps
Ladders, stairways and ramps aid trench access and egress. Does your excavation site use them properly? Use one for every 25 feet of lateral travel, for trenches four feet and deeper.
8. Water in the trench
Water in a trench spells danger. It can silently undercut the trench wall, weakening it and leaving it prone to a cave-in. Use a pump to remove any water in the trench before continuing work.
9. Misinformed general contractor
Look for “Knowledge Builder,” compliments of Builders Mutual Insurance Co., in each issue of North Carolina Builder. More risk management resources are available on www. buildersmutual.com. 26 North Carolina Builder
Many general contractors indirectly involved in the excavation misunderstand and underestimate both their liability as the GC and their ability to demand the safety measures their subs must employ.
10. Unguarded trenches overnight
If trenching and excavation work poses a significant risk to well-trained construction workers, then imagine the increased risk for unwanted job site visitors during the night. Whether the trench work continues or you only await the inspection, put a structural barrier like orange safety fencing or guardrails around any trenches, even if the entire site is restricted by chain-link fence as another layer of deterrent.
May 2009
The second time was the charm
By Mike Carpenter, NCHBA Executive Vice President now and ice forced Region VIII Vice President Darrel Hamilton to cancel his original meeting plans on Feb. 4 during NCHBA’s statewide regional meetings week. His makeup date of March 12 proved to be a very popular choice, with 25 people attending this subsequently scheduled meeting at Rock Barn Country Club in Conover. Five of the six local HBAs were represented by 20 attendees along with NCHBA President Frank Wiesner, NCHBA President-Elect Lyle Gardner, NCHBA staff Mike Carpenter and Kathryn Atkinson, and BMIC’s Mel Whitener. HBAs represented were the HickoryCatawba Valley HBA, the Ashe County HBA, the Lincoln County HBA, theWilkes County HBA and the Iredell County HBA. In addition to the presentations about NCHBA, a significant period of the meeting was devoted to discussing local and regional issues of interest.Topics in this segment included green building, HBA The group from Region VIII pauses for a photo op. fund-raising success stories, membership totals and ideas for retention, BUILD-PAC and local success stories in the governmental affairs arena. Several questions arose from my update on the results of federal efforts to enact a tax credit program and on efforts by NCHBA in the General Assembly to enact legislation that would benefit our industry and home buyers in these difficult times. We were pleased to welcome two former NCHBA presidents to the meeting — Sherrill Faw of Wilkes County, NCHBA President in 1979, and David Pressly of Iredell County, NCHBA President in 1996. Pressly also served as President of the National Association of Home Builders in 2006.
S
May 2009
Strengthen your Position by Marketing It’s easy to let fear set in during times of economic uncertainty, but remember, businesses are built on sales. It’s times like these, when business is off, when you need more sales and more customers. Advertising in North Carolina Builder is your direct line to your building industry audience in the Tar Heel State. Introduce your products and services to more than 18,000 industry professionals, 11 times a year! And, because the North Carolina Builder is the official publication of the North Carolina Home Builders Association, you not only benefit from your ad promotions, you help support the efforts of NCHBA members as well! Call Sharon Freeman today at (888) 364-5271 or (757) 624-5330 to talk about how you can increase your sales through effective and targeted marketing and special rate options.
North Carolina Builder 27
Spike Member Update SPIKE credits as of February 2009
Highest year-to-date current credits Spike Name
Credits
Cumulative Credits HBA
Jerry Cowan Tasha Soto Kenny Murphy Thomas Anhut Alma Jacobs Van Vreeland Warren Smith Carlton Dial Larry Barker Jay Harwood Robert Rouse
42.50 33.00 33.00 22.00 19.00 16.50 15.75 15.00 10.00 8.50 8.50
742.00 297.00 151.50 86.75 919.50 1,025.25 374.00 176.50 351.00 1,170.50 52.00
Greensboro Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County HBA of Charlotte Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Robeson County Outer Banks Albemarle/Stanly County Gaston County
Highest year-to-date total new credits Spike Name
Credits
Cumulative Credits HBA
Tasha Soto Alma Jacobs Carlton Dial Van Vreeland Jerry Cowan Warren Smith Jimmy Barnette Marc Cauble Johnny Hayes Larry Barker
30.00 15.00 13.00 6.50 6.50 5.50 5.00 5.00 4.50 4.00
297.00 919.50 176.50 1,025.25 742.00 374.00 67.00 8.00 82.25 351.00
Raleigh-Wake County Charlotte Robeson County Raleigh-Wake County Greensboro Raleigh-Wake County Hendersonville Davidson County Raleigh-Wake County Outer Banks
Highest year-to-date retention credits Spike Name
Credits
Cumulative Credits HBA
Jerry Cowan Kenny Murphy Thomas Anhut Warren Smith Van Vreeland Harry Warren Jay Harwood Harriet Anderson John Hamrick Larry Barker Katie Gahr
36.00 32.00 21.50 10.25 10.00 8.00 7.50 7.00 6.00 6.00 6.00
742.00 151.50 86.75 374.00 1,025.25 90.50 1,170.50 109.00 474.50 351.00 14.00
Greensboro Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Albemarle/Stanly County Winston-Salem Greensboro Outer Banks Raleigh-Wake County
Growing our strength through member recruitment, retention and involvement
R
ecruiting new members to your local association is an activity recognized and rewarded through the NAHB Spike Club Program. Those who participate are called Spikes and they are among the most valued members of the association. Member-to-member recruitment and retention efforts are highly valued because of the grassroots growth and stability they bring to your local, state and national associations. These efforts lend to the development of the general membership and our leadership pipeline, keeping the face of our association true to that of our industry and the wide scope of interests we represent. Spikes are the membership leaders of our federation, building the voice, power and influence on every level!
28 North Carolina Builder
Spike of the Month Name: Nicole Goolsby Company: Rion Homes Inc. Position: President/General Contractor How long in business: Nine years Goolsby SPIKE credits: 134.5 HBA: Lake Norman HBA involvement: Lake Norman Home Builders Association 2000:Women’s Council Chair 2001-2003: Builder Director 2007: Membership Chair 2008: Membership Chair 2009: Remodelers Council Chair 2000 to present: Builder Director to NAHB 2000 to present:Builder Director to NCHBA North Carolina Home Builders Association 1999:Women’s Council President 2004-2006: Region VI Vice President 2007: Membership Chair 2008: Events Chair National Association of Home Builders 2006:Women’s Council Chairman 2009: Single Family Small Volume Builder Chair 2009-10: Residential Construction Performance Guidelines 4th Edition Workgroup Chair Marital status: single Children: William (Go Pack), 19, Ellyn,17, and Devon, 10 Favorite food: Sushi Favorite movies: Gone With the Wind, Moulin Rouge, almost anything with Nicholas Cage, and Die Hard (the original) Favorite magazine: Remodeling, Fine Homebuilding and This Old House Ideal vacation: Anywhere with old architecture, great restaurants, outdoor activities and time to read Last book read: The Shack Hobbies: Singing and cooking Pets: A German shepherd mutt and two *&#@ cats First job: Ice cream scooper, just like my two oldest kids If you had 15 minutes in front of the NCHBA membership, what would you say about membership recruitment/ retention? Did you know that your three-in-one membership investment has never been more
May 2009
Community tanks serve small and large developments.
valuable than it is today? Yes, times are tough. Every aspect of our industry is being affected, but nowhere is more being done to help construction professionals than through our local, state and national associations. I began involvement as an associate member in banking. Immediately I saw what membership could do for me through the relationships I developed and the knowledge I gained. As a yet-to-be-naturalized citizen, I took advantage of my local’s and state’s advocacy opportunities not only to familiarize myself with issues affecting housing, but also to educate myself on how to use my vote as an American citizen.Through my continued involvement over the years, the gain professionally and personally has been more than I ever imagined.What I saw initially was just the tip of the iceberg. As active members of your associations, you are probably just scratching the surface of all the benefits and opportunities membership offers. I encourage you to take some time now, during this lull in production, to really explore all your local HBA, NCHBA and NAHB are doing to help you improve your business and our industry. Because let’s face it, the bottom line is you are investing your time, energy and money for a return. Maximize it! Start with yourself and what you need to weather these times -- information, education, mentoring, business development opportunities, financial and legal advice. Check out the Web sites, publications, seminars and trade shows, discounts, designation courses and work being done by our committees and councils. Go to meetings and network. Find out what it is going to take to thrive in our industry as it continues to change. And while you are at it, bring someone along with you. There has never been a more critical time to get involved and stay active with our associations. Each individual working in our industry deserves the opportunities and benefits we have as members. Offer them the chance. Invite them to join the “family.” Encourage new members and old to become more involved and plugged in to all that our associations are doing during difficult times. This is not about growing our membership numbers. This is about strengthening the home building industry, working together to fix the problems in the economy and being in place and ready to succeed when the recovery begins.
May 2009
Underground tanks are long-lasting, easily maintained, and environmentally friendly.
With community underground tanks, you can offer hundreds of homeowners what they really want — the efficiency and reliability of gas appliances. And curb appeal. Dig deeper at usepropane.com.
North Carolina Propane Association 5109 Hollyridge Drive, Raleigh, NC 27612 919-787-8485
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North Carolina Builder 29
M E T W O O D = I N N O VAT I O N Metwood builds the most versatile Concrete Pourover systems available today, with installation available in select areas. Utilizing the strength of steel and Metwood’s patented beam technology we create truly unique and safe decks with unlimited handrail and deck finishing options. ha
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www.metwood.com 30 North Carolina Builder
May 2009
Product Roundup: Engineered wood benefits builders and homeowners By Al Landers
T
he economy today is steering builders to use new engineered wood solutions that help them deliver homes on time and in budget with long-term consumer benefits like improved energy efficiency and quiet floors. Advances within the industry have taken engineered wood to a higher level of design, surpassing the strength and stiffness properties of plywood and traditional OSB (oriented strand board). Recently, a new type of all-in-one engineered panel has hit the market that eliminates the time and hassles associated with traditional construction materials. The panels have built-in protective overlays that remove the need for housewrap or felt. Builders using these new types of panels install them and tape the seams for a rough dry-in which allows them to get their subcontractors in sooner. These panels provide superior moisture protection for roofs and walls and help control air flow through walls for enhanced energy efficiency. Like energy efficiency, another one of the many benefits builders are providing to homeowners by using advanced engineered wood panels are quiet floors. Homeowners often complain of floor squeaks when they have hardwood flooring in their homes. Some squeaks are easily eliminated, but others require pulling up the hardwood floor and essentially replacing or significantly repairing the subfloor system. These higherperformance engineered wood panels are made with advanced resin technology and are engineered to have superior strength and stiffness design values to help eliminate many of the issues that lead to floor squeaks and floor bounce – leading to satisfied homeowners and preventing rework. These structural panels are the type of engineered wood product innovations shaping the future of home building and becoming more of a necessity for builders in this marketplace. (Al Landers is Vice President of Research and Development for Huber Engineered Woods.) May 2009
Engineered wood products can save time and money What rain?
Stabledge
Stabledge, a specifically engineered tongue-and-groove structural panel for subfloors, has proved it can stand up to the torrential rains that some hurricanes can deliver. The Southern Pine Council and APA - The Engineered Wood Association selected Stabledge T&G from Norbord for their E3 Project House in Port Allen, La. During construction, the house encountered the wrath of Hurricane Gustav, which swept through the area last fall. “Stabledge subflooring endured 10 inches of rain over three days in September 2008,” says Billy Ward, the owner of Champion Builders LLC, the company that built the house. “With this much rain with plywood, I generally have delaminating veneers to patch and sand for edge swell.” But that wasn’t the case with this project. He was able to finish the floor as if the rain had never happened. The Norbord panel has been tested and used extensively in North America with similar results. Although the product can stand up well in wet conditions, exposure to moisture should be avoided to minimize the risk of mold and mildew. Stabledge features the latest advances in OSB panels. The patented process ensures the panel or any joints will not swell.The engineered wood subflooring is suitable for carpet and underpad, ceramic tile, lightweight concrete, hardwood floors and vinyl (with a suitable underlayment). It is backed by a 50-year limited warranty. For more information, visit www.stabledgeob.com. ZIP System
Zipped up and guaranteed
Huber’s ZIP System roof and wall sheathing now come with a new limited 15-year system warranty and a 30-year panel warranty. The code-recognized structural panels with built-in barriers help protect a home from water and air infiltration during and after the initial construction. Once the panels are installed, the seams are sealed with a special tape.The innovative system eliminates the need for both housewrap and felt, which saves the builder time while yielding superior moisture management and a tighter building envelope. “My framers like eliminating the hassles of housewrap installation and rework required when it blows off,” says Gary Adams, a builder in Georgia. “I like the fact there’s nothing to trap water. My homeowners also like the clean appearance during construction.” For more information, visit www.zipsystem.com.
Not a miss with utilities Developed in cooperation with popular joist manufacturers, Metwood’s throughSPAN can eliminate several challenges when it comes to routing electrical, plumbing and HVAC lines. A smaller, lighter hybrid structural beam of incredible strength, it’s capable of spanning greater distances with fewer vertical supports while allowing utilities to pass through the structural member. throughSPAN Its light-gauge steel construction reinforced with rebar allows this flooring system to support concrete flooring and heavy loads. The beams can be ordered in standard lengths and trimmed on site or they can be custom fabricated to the exact specifications.They can be installed without welding or metalworking by simply attaching wood blocking and fastening with screws or nails. For more information, visit www.metwood.com or call (866) 638-9663. North Carolina Builder 31
The Green Scene Paint manufacturer develops zero-VOC product
B
enjamin Moore recently announced the development of Natura zeroVOC premium performance interior paint. Natura paints are available in thousands of hues and can be limitlessly colormatched without adding to the VOC level. Traditional colorants add the VOCs, but because Natura is built upon Benjamin Moore’s patented waterborne colorant system, regardless of the color it remains zero-VOC. Natura is the greenest paint Benjamin Moore has ever made.
Energy Star’s new window performance standards recognize energy-saving alternatives By Bruce Lang nitial revisions to the Department of Energy’s Energy Star® window performance standards, which will become effective Jan. 1, 2010, should make clear that generic low-e glass no longer represents a level of energy efficiency required to “transform the market,” a key charter of the agency’s Energy Star program. Because generic low-e glass provides insulating performance of about R-4 in a world in which R-19 insulated walls are the norm, there’s a dramatic performance gap between what low-e glass provides and what green building practices promise in saving energy and reducing carbon emissions. Despite heavily insulated walls and ceilings and the popularity of low-e glass, 25 percent to 35 percent of the energy used in homes
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t Alternative products, like these Heat Mirrorequipped windows from Southwall Technologies, offer high insulating performance.
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and buildings is wasted due to inefficient glass. So, it should come as no surprise that glass is responsible for more than 10 percent of the total carbon emissions in the United States annually and is a major contributor to global warming. The truth is that low-e glass thermal performance has reached practical limits.A low-e coating reflects heat, reducing heat transfer between panes of glass, and thereby improving insulation performance. The “e” in low-e, which stands for “emissivity,” is the ability of a surface to radiate energy. Low-e coatings are rated for the amount of heat they radiate — the lower the number, the less heat is radiated and the better the insulation performance of the glass. Coated glass is commonly available today with emissivity ratings below 0.03, and lowering emissivity from 0.03 to 0.00 will have a negligible incremental improvement on window performance. Clearly, further improvements in glass thermal performance will not come from improvements in low-e coatings. Low-e coated glass has become a minimum performance baseline and no longer represents a path to “improved” energy performance. The incremental performance benefit of using low-e glass is zero, because it is already assumed as a required product. Generic low-e insulating glass, consisting of two pieces of coated glass separated by a sealed, gas-filled air cavity, achieves a maximum thermal insulation value of R-4. With further advances in glass-coating technology expected to provide minimal performance improvement, the focus has now shifted from coatings to cavities. Just as the introduction of single-cavity insulated glass provided a breakthrough in performance beyond monolithic glass, the introduction of multicavity constructions, consisting of two or even three insulating cavities, is providing the next performance breakthrough. Two alternatives to generic low-e insulating glass are currently available that can meet Energy Star’s proposed Phase 2 window performance standards scheduled to debut as early as 2013. One is triple-pane glass, consisting of three panes of glass and two low-e coatings. The good news is that by using a third pane of glass to create a second insulating cavity, triple-pane low-e
glass improves generic low-e insulating glass performance from R-4 to R-9. The bad news is that triple pane glass is 50 percent heavier than standard insulating glass, requiring stronger window framing and increasing cost accordingly. A superior alternative consists of suspending a low emissivity and solar reflective film inside of an insulating glass unit. Without the weight disadvantages of a third pane of glass, film can create two, three or even four insulating cavities that maximize light transmission and provide conservation performance ranging from R-6 to an amazing R-20 to meet the unique requirements of both commercial and residential new construction and renovation projects. Such internally-mounted film does not replace low-e glass. It leverages the benefits of film-based and glass-based technologies to create a lightweight, multicavity insulating glass that offers a new level of performance. Most units fabricated today utilize low-e coated glass to minimize solar heat gain, while using film to maximize insulation performance, block UV radiation, reduce noise and increase occupant comfort more effectively than low-e glass alone. (Bruce Lang is Vice President of Marketing & Business Development at Southwall Technologies Inc., in Palo Alto, Calif.)
New Energy Tax Credit glass packages introduced
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o assist homeowners, builders, remodelers and window dealers in quickly and easily identifying windows that qualify for the government’s new tax credit, Simonton Windows has introduced Energy Tax Credit (ETC) glass packages. All Simonton products ordered with the ETC glass packages are certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to meet a U-factor rating of 0.30 or less, and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.30 or less. These are the energy ratings stated by the U.S. government that are required for homeowners to take advantage of the $1,500 energy tax credit. Three competitively priced ETC glass package options are available on select Simonton products and styles, each providing optimal thermal performance and energy efficiency. “We are committed to providing a wide variety of top-quality products that will allow homeowners to take advantage of the new energy tax credit established under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009,” says May 2009
Mark Savan, President of Simonton Windows. “We have already created the www.simonton. com/taxcredit informational site.” According to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, homeowners can gain a tax credit of up to 30 percent of the cost of qualifying energy-efficient upgrades to a maximum of $1,500 per household for 2009 and 2010. The new regulations provide five times more tax credit to homeowners than was previously available under a similar bill, which allowed up to only $200 tax credit on energyefficient window purchases.
NCHBA Calendar
Summer Schedule of Events
May 19 NAHB National Membership Day May 26–31 NAHB Spring Board Meeting, Washington, D.C. June 9-10 NCHBA Legislative Conference & 2nd Quarter Board Meeting, Raleigh, N.C.
July N.C. Executive Officers Council Seminar, Hickory, N.C. July 14-19 NAHB Summer Executive Board Meeting, Colorado Springs, Colo. Aug. 11-15 NAHB Executive Officers Council Seminar, Louisville, Ky.
Manufacturer achieves sustainable forestry certification
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evel by Weyerhaeuser has completed the rigorous Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) certification process for its range of specialty wood building products. The certification provides home builders, building material dealers, homeowners and architects with the assurance that materials come from responsibly managed forests. Such forests are grown and harvested in ways that protect water quality and wildlife habitat, and are promptly replanted to ensure forest availability for future generations. iLevel’s SFI-certified engineered wood products include all TJI joists, TimberStrand laminated strand lumber (LSL), Parallam parallel strand lumber (PSL), Microllam laminated veneer lumber (LVL), and Structurwood oriented strand board (OSB) panels. Solid-sawn lumber products carrying the SFI certification include iLevel Framer Series Lumber, iLevel MSR/MEL Performance Tested Lumber, and iLevel Premium Joists. “From our forests, through our mills and to working closely with the customer, we’re committed to operating in environmentally responsible ways,” says Cassie Phillips, Vice President of Sustainable Forests and Products for Weyerhaeuser.“All Weyerhaeuser forests have been third-party certified for several years, and we’re pleased to have completed the next step of obtaining certification of iLevel products derived from our own, as well as other suppliers,’ forests.” The Sustainable Forestry Initiative is an independent,nonprofit organization that certifies forests and forest products, including wood construction materials. The SFI program is the largest forest certification program in the United States and Canada. Leading green building programs, including the National Association of Home Builders National Green Building Program, recognize SFI-certified forest products as part of green home construction. May 2009
GO GREEN! let us help you grow your business . Visit one of these locations : Charlotte, NC 28206 (704)377-5443 (800)438-5908 Fax(704)376-3559 elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252)338-2737 (800)841-0408 Fax(252)338-3123 Fayetteville, NC 28306 (910)483-3360 (800)542-7448 Fax(910)483-3499 FletCher, NC 28732 (828)654-8953 (888)809-8181 Fax(828)654-8957 GreeNsboro, NC 27406 (336)273-8681 (800)722-2200 Fax(336)273-0521 hiCkory, NC 28601 (828)322-7080 (800)236-5607 Fax(828)322-7274 New berN, NC 28560 (252)672-8900 (800)548-1610 Fax(252)672-8904 raleiGh, NC 27603 (919)772-6220 (800)262-1394 Fax(919)772-8782 rural hall, NC 27045 (336)969-2201 (800)633-0842 Fax(336)969-2301
More and more home owners are thinking “green” when it comes to remodeling the exterior of their home. Norandex is committed to providing energy-efficient, renewable/recyclable/sustainable products that are both environmentally friendly, and provide you the opportunity to market legitimately "green" products for long-lasting home owner benefits with minimal environmental impact. Best of all, these “green” products come in a variety of beautiful colors and styles, that require practically no maintenance, and are strongly warranted for their quality and performance. Contact your Norandex representative about the benefits of the following “green” products: SIDING
WINDOWS
ENTRY DOORS
SKYLIGHTS
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DECKING
They’re just a part of an extensive line of exterior building products available from Norandex Building Materials Distribution.
wilmiNGtoN, NC 28405 (910)815-0501 (888)868-4695 Fax(910)815-0105 wiNterville, NC 28590 (252)321-5632 (888)643-0120 Fax(252)321-5682
www.norandex.com
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NCH191 NC GreenBuildersAd
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Green building, made easy. We’ve raised the bar again. Pulled your hair out trying to figure out what green building really means, and how to get into green building before everyone else does? We understand where you’re coming from. Nationwide has made it easy for builders to get ahead of the curve—No more perplexing talk, just the green facts. Because, at Nationwide we have the expertise like no other to help you build high-quality, green homes that are backed by the NAHB and EnergyStar®. Simply put, we have done all the hard work to make green easier for you. Nationwide has raised the bar again. Green, another way Nationwide brings you Custom Made Easy. Nationwide has been building and selling custom, systems-built factory housing for 50 years to a network of loyal, independent builders in 16 states, including North Carolina. Call 1.800.216.7001 to learn about the many benefits of building with Nationwide. Visit www.nationwide-homes.com.
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May 2009
NCHBA News
s The carport on Dylan Moore’s home is being converted into a bedroom suite for the young boy.
s A Durham builder employs a unique marketing strategy by constructing a home at a local shopping mall.
s The Carpenters Cup Challenge winners pose proudly in front of their storage building.
Roanoke Valley members work on special project
a local builder and a carpentry teacher to build five storage buildings. Participating schools were Graham High School, Eastern High School, Sellars Gunn, Southern High School and Western High School.They used the same plans and were judged on their skill, time and craftsmanship. A local builder, school official and local inspector served as judges and a trophy was awarded to the winning team that afternoon. The winner of this year’s competition was the Eastern High School Team. About $7,000 was raised and donated to the programs, thanks to monetary donations and donations of materials.A few buildings are still available for $1,600, which includes free delivery in Alamance County.
om White recently joined Cox Industries to assist the company’s sales White force in multiple territories. Formerly with New South Wood Preserving, White brings to Cox the commitment to service Cox customers demand.
“The market was real bad then, too,” he said. “People weren’t coming out to look at houses then, so we decided to bring the house to them.” It turned out to be a success, so Barnette and his son Matt are employing the same strategy now at the Streets at Southpoint Mall in Durham, where around 15 million visitors come each year. Right outside the mall entrance, in the path of thousands of mall visitors each day, is a 1 ½ story, 1,206-square-foot bungalow-style home with two bedrooms, one bath and a loft. The Go Green Cottage features the latest in energy efficiency, meeting NAHB/Green Home Builders of the Triangle standards as well as Energy Star standards. And perhaps the best part? The house is selling for $89,900 and can be moved to a lot the buyer owns. The home includes a long list of green features, including low-flow faucets, covered entrance, a sealed crawlspace to control moisture, high-quality insulation, Energy Star appliances, sealed ductwork, carpet made of recycled plastic, low-e insulated vinyl windows and James Hardie Color Plus siding. Built in just seven days, Sun River Builders hosted a grand opening ceremony March 28 with a steady stream of visitors. The model will be open until May 22. For more information, including specifications and green details, visit www. gogreencottage.com.
Durham builder uses unique strategy to market homes
Carpenters Cup Challenge helps raise funds for school projects
ore than 25 years ago, the housing industry was facing a crisis similar to the one facing it today: people weren’t buying houses. One builder, Barnette Crabtree of Sun River Builders Signature Homes, decided to get creative and built a home in the parking lot of Northgate Mall.
he Home Builders Association of Alamance-Caswell County hosted its sixth annual Carpenters Cup Challenge — an annual carpentry competition that helps raise much-needed funds for high school carpentry programs — March 21. Five local high schools had a team of students,
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embers of the Roanoke Valley Home Builders Association have been working on a very special project for 5-year-old Dylan Moore. Moore suffers from Fanconi anemia, a rare disease that has severely weakened his immune system. He is currently in Minnesota receiving treatments, and will need his own separate bedroom and modifications made throughout the house when he returns. That’s where the RVHBA comes in. A group started working on converting the carport attached to the home into a bedroom suite, complete with its own bathroom and closets. Many local companies donated supplies and labor to the effort. “When we heard about the family in need, we all just came together and got it done,” said Joey Elias, President of the RVHBA. “The ones who called us are the ones who deserve the credit, but that’s just the kind of people they are.”
Cox Industries announces new employee
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May 2009
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s Greensboro homeowners showcase their green building experiences via the GREENSPIRATION Home.
GBA member builds GREENSPIRATION Home
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omeowners Trish Holder and Mark Raines of Greensboro showcased their GREENSPRIRATION Home, a showcase home for modern green building practices that do not undermine the comfort, beauty or budget of a traditional upper middle-class home, during March and April. Since breaking ground in July 2008, the Holder-Raines have documented their entire green building experience via the www. (See NCHBA NEWS on page 36) North Carolina Builder 35
Laundry Room Referrals I Had A Great Builder You can see it in the details. With the Dryerbox, for example, my laundry finishes in half the time it took in my old house. My washer and dryer can be moved flush to the wall. Behind the dryer, there’s no mess or crushed hose and no fire hazard. ®
Students join past presidents
Like I said, I had a great builder. Want to know his name? Finish the Laundry Right Install the original UL classified Dryerbox and get referrals from unlikely places like the laundry.
At the Carteret County HBA Past Presidents’ Dinner in February, NCHBA President Frank Wiesner (center) joins Bill Boulia, CCHBA President (far left), Ray Rhodes, NCHBA Immediate Past President (far right) and two local high school students, Justin Parnin and Stephen Lupton, who are officers in the SkillsUSA program in North Carolina.
®
888-443-7937 www.Dryerbox.com
36 North Carolina Builder
NCHBA News (continued from page 35) greenspirationhome.com Web site.Their goal has been to educate and increase awareness among homeowners regarding the latest green building technologies. By providing candid information about their experiences (good and bad), the couple hopes to provide a “cheat sheet” of sorts for homeowners who want to build (or renovate). In addition, they have sought to use and promote as many locally-sourced materials — from brick to furniture — as they possibly could. “We want to show that ‘being green’ also goes hand-in-hand with supporting the local economy because it keeps transport emissions down. Plus, we really wanted to show our loyalty to some important North Carolina industries like textiles, furniture and lumber,” said Trish Holder, a writer and marketing consultant for the Heating Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) industry. Greensboro Builders Association members Don and Megan Cohan of Signature Homes by D. Cohan Inc. built the GREENSPIRATION Home. “We saw this as an opportunity to learn and work as a team with Mark and Trish,” said Megan. “We also realize this is where the industry is going, and what we learn will enable us to build better houses in the future.” All proceeds from the showcase home tours benefit the Greensboro Chapter of the American Red Cross, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Autism Society of North Carolina and the United Way of Greater Greensboro. May 2009
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North Carolina Builder 37
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Carolina 38 North Carolina BuilderFoam
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