THE EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS AROUND THE INDUSTRY’S LARGEST CONCRETE-CENTRIC TRADESHOW
CONSIDER THESE FACTORS WHEN YOU SELECT YOUR NEW MACHINE WHAT TO CONSIDER IN CONCRETE GRINDERS
Conjet Robots and NLB Pumps make a Powerful Combo.
Power, reach and stability are crucial for Automated Concrete Removal™ on bridges and parking decks. Combining an NLB 605 Series water jet pump unit with a Conjet robot gives you all that and more.
The NLB 605 is a 600 hp diesel unit known for performance, reliability, and low maintenance. It’s easily convertible to pressures up to 40,000 psi. The Conjet ACR™ Robot 557 MPA XL features a multi-position arm that cuts more than 20 feet high, and shifts its center of gravity to maintain stability and maximize safety.
Learn about this highly productive tandem by visiting our website at www.nlbcorp.com, or giving us a call today!
Series Diesel Unit
Conjet
ACR™ Robot 557 MPA XL
When
Consider
Supplying
There
JONATHAN KOZLOWSKI, jkozlowski@iron.markets
Is 2025 Looking Good?
Full disclosure here, Concrete Contractor is not the only magazine I (attempt to) manage. As also editor of Rental , I get a chance to connect with a very different angle of the construction industry. Rental’s readers are the equipment and general tool rental stores you frequent whenever you need that specialized equipment needed to solve that one special problem that one time or get your hands on something to keep the jobs moving. It goes without saying that I also write on ForConstructionPros.com. Not here to list out my resume, just trying to give context to this transition and the crux of this issue’s Editor’s Letter
I recently had an interview with John Jeanguenat, vice president for the equipment segment at the American Rental Association, for the magazine’s podcast “The Bottom Line” to get his perspective on 2025 for the rental industry. The TL;DR of it all there’s hope for a good year.
Aside from the fact that the rental industry is also challenged with a lack of skilled labor, let’s take a look at the roller coaster of the equipment supply chain. At one point of time there was an excess of demand and supply couldn’t keep up. That seems to have shifted. With an excess supply, Jenguenat says manufactures are looking at an excess supply (in a general sense) of equipment in the marketplace. Things ebb and flow we’ll probably see this balance out in the coming years as demand and supply figures itself out.
That’s how this works, right? Let’s say interest rates ease up. Shouldn’t that cause the demand for construction projects increase? Then rental would see that effect with calls for more lifting equipment, compact equipment, and other assets you might not have in the back of your truck. I remember back in pandemic where people put money toward their home and we saw growth in that market. High interest rates put a spike in that. But, “now that you’re seeing interest rates come down, I think that more activity in the residential construction market is really good...I think we’re hopeful that we see that in 2025 or at least start to see that move back in the right direction and drive growth within the industry,” says Jenguenat.
If it sounds like it’s going to be a good year, let’s make it so. Take pride in your work. Appreciate your team. Be safe. Be kind.
Thank you for reading. Please enjoy this issue.
NEWS YOU CAN USE
Get industry news and expert insights delivered straight into your inbox. Stay up to date on the latest happenings across the concrete industry with our e-newsletter, In The Mix. Scan the QR code to subscribe. https://CONC.me/newsletters
ADVISORY BOARD
Kim Basham
KB Engineering Cheyenne, Wyo.
James Baty II
Concrete Foundations Association Mt. Vernon, Iowa
Dennis Purinton Purinton Builders, Inc. East Granby, Conn.
Brand Manager, OEM & Construction Nikki Lawson nlawson@iron.markets
Published and copyrighted 2025 by IronMarkets.All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher.
NEW PRODUCTS
Euclid Chemical VERSASPEED RMC Concrete Repair Mortar
RPX Technologies & binni Data Transparency Collaboration
Euclid Chemical launched VERSASPEED RMC, a fast-setting, one-component, cementitious repair mortar that is shrinkage compensated, pozzolan and microfiber modified. It contains an integral corrosion inhibitor. It is designed for horizontal and formed vertical repairs as well as overhead structural repairs. Appropriate for applications from 1 in. to full depth where a fast return to service is required, the non-metallic and non-staining material is designed for projects that require repairs on sloped grades. Applications include parking decks, joint repairs, balconies, equipment bases, pavements, beams and vertical and overhead formed repairs. Due to its rapid hardening, this concrete repair mortar allows users to strip forms the same day and it can be coated five hours after the final setting. VERSASPEED RMC meets ASTM C928 Standard Specification for Rapid-Hardening Cementitious Materials for Concrete Repairs requirements and is packaged in 50-lb. bags that yield 0.37 ft.3 per bag when mixed with 4.25 pints of water.
Scan the QR code for more information.
https://CONC.me/jspwti34
Doka DokaXact Load & Pressure Sensors for Concrete Pouring
Doka’s DokaXact Load and Pressure sensors enable real-time monitoring of the concrete pouring process. DokaXact sensors are tough, waterproof and dustproof and can be connected to the user’s smartphone via Bluetooth. DokaXact Load offers a solution for monitoring formwork loads. The sensors are designed for installation on standard tie systems, providing reliable data on tie loads. No special tools or major installation work required. The DokaXact pressure sensor is designed for monitoring fresh concrete pressure. It can be mounted directly on plywood and requires only a 26 mm hole. The data from both sensors is visualized in real time in the DokaXact app. The user interface allows for simple and independent operation from a smartphone. The DokaXact web portal also provides detailed information and transparent project documentation. The DokaXact sensors are designed for use in the energy sector, in residential or commercial construction and in projects with anchor loads or high, single-sided walls or pillars.
Scan the QR code for more information. https://CONC.me/gpf96e4q
RPX Technologies and binni have announced a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing data transparency in concrete construction operations. This development combines RPX Technologies’ concrete monitoring sensors with binni’s data management platform, offering stakeholders insights into concrete operations. The integration of RPX Technologies’ InSite concrete sensors with the binni Concrete platform provides construction teams a view of their projects. This collaboration allows for real-time data synchronization, resource allocation and informed decision making.
Scan the QR code for more information.
https://CONC.me/ivd182n6
GatorBar Grip #5 Composite Rebar
GatorBar has announced the expansion of GatorBar Grip production to include #5 sized composite rebar. The #5 GatorBar Grip, GatorBar’s new sliver-free product, is available for order with delivery through its network of distribution and wholesale partners. GatorBar is a glass fiber reinforced composite rebar, made 100% in the U.S.
• ICC structurally approved, composite rebar
• 2x stronger in tensile strength than steel
• 4-7x lighter in weight than steel
• Zero slivers
• Zero rust.
Scan the QR code for more information.
https://CONC.me/7zwz83xu
GRABO Pro-Lifter 20 Portable Electric Vacuum Lifting Device
The GRABO Pro-Lifter 20 is a tool for lifting heavy objects, materials and equipment. This portable electric vacuum suction cup features a smart digital pressure sensor, digital display and smart settings for weight and pressure. When used properly, it can lift a slab of flat, solid material. The technology powering the suction cup automatically activates the vacuum pump, maintaining optimal pressure and performance while eliminating guesswork. With an airflow of 20 liters per minute, the GRABO Pro offers heavy-duty lifting capacity, capable of handling surfaces weighing up to 375 lbs. (170 kg). This tool is powered by a rechargeable battery. A small electronic display on the handle allows operators to monitor the status of the device. Four tabs on the handle can be used to secure straps, hooks, chains or ropes. The lifting tool is designed for stone pavers, concrete, boxes, compressed sand, glass, drywall, tiles and more.
Scan the QR code for more information..
https://CONC.me/pbdob4gq
Milwaukee Tool has expanded the MX FUEL category with the release of the MX FUEL 600 mm Walk Behind Edging Trowel and the MX FUEL 900 mm
Walk Behind Power Trowel. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor delivers control with a maximum blade speed of 130 rpm for the MXF WBT90 and 160 rpm for the MXF WBT60 and an ergonomic throttle design. Both trowels provide a smooth finishing experience with 5 hp of performance. The MX FUEL 600 mm
Walk Behind Edging Trowel delivers up to 35 minutes of runtime per charge on full speed with a MX FUEL FORGE 12.0 Ah battery. The MX FUEL 900 mm
Walk Behind Edging Trowel delivers up to 25 minutes of runtime per charge on full speed with a MX FUEL FORGE 12.0 Ah battery. Both trowels feature AUTOSTOP for user protection. The handlebar height is adjustable and a fine pitch dial enables users to make blade pitch adjustments. A lift hook supports maneuverability on the jobsite. ONE-KEY tool tracking and security offers a free-of-charge cloud-based tracking network and inventory management platform for tools. ONE-KEY also features a remote locking functionality.
Gerdau Graphene NanoCONS Line of Graphene Admixtures
The NanoCONS line of admixtures enables concrete producers to leverage the physical properties of graphene to support the mechanical performance of their concrete products. Graphene, a 2D carbon nanomaterial, is 100300 times stronger in terms of tensile strength than structural steel. The integration of NanoCONS into cementitious materials may also reduce carbon emissions associated with concrete production. NanoCONS can help reduce cement consumption without any loss of concrete performance, thereby contributing to more sustainable concrete production. The first product in the NanoCONS line, NanoCONS W104, is a water-based graphene nanoplate admixture that can be applied to cementitious matrices such as cement pastes, mortars and concretes to support physical properties such as durability, mechanical strength, impermeability and other desired performance attributes. NanoCONS W104 was developed for application in precast concrete.
Scan the QR code for more information.
https://CONC.me/mmo1paso
Carbon Limit CoolCrete Concrete Additive
https://CONC.me/gtnpxz0v Milwaukee Tool MX FUEL Walk-Behind Power Trowels
Scan the QR code for more information.
https://CONC.me/3zufy080
Carbon Limit’s CoolCrete is a heat-reducing product addition to its line of sustainable concrete additives. Carbon Limit has partnered with NCP Industries and Bison Innovative Products as licensing affiliates to launch a new series of architectural design products incorporating CoolCrete technology, bringing the product to commercial and residential projects worldwide. CoolCrete is a functional Supplementary Cementitious Material that reduces the overall carbon footprint of concrete by up to 40% through replacing a portion of conventional cement that is emissions-intensive. The versatile additive achieves temperature reduction through solar reflectance and thermal emittance. CoolCrete also increases concrete’s ability to reflect sunlight, reducing overall heat absorption while releasing absorbed heat. CoolCrete is designed to directly combat the ongoing heat crisis and Urban Heat Island Effect.
Scan the QR code for more information.
FREES UP LABOR FROM MIXING
ELIMINATES MIX ERRORS
MIXES UP TO 120 GALLONS PER HOUR
SUPPORTS FULL RANGE OF RATIOS FROM 1:1 TO 6:1
REDUCES MATERIAL WASTE
MAXIMIZES MATERIAL WORKING TIME
PACER Award Honors Concrete Contractors
It’s been said time and time again: concrete is the second-most consumed material on the planet. Behind every pound, every square foot, every ton of that stands a concrete contractor. The back-breaking dedication of these professionals all too often remains unnoticed. For those with concrete in their veins and stuck on their boots, the ForConstructionPros.com PACER award honors the hard work, diligence, and creativity to solving today’s challenges within concrete construction—both on the jobsite and in the office.
The PACER Award is the first award specific to the ForConstructionPros brand and the first industry executivefocused award for the Construction Network. Here are the first-ever PACER award winners.
JOBSITE EXCELLENCE
Marty Small, President — Fairfax Paving & Concrete
Marty Small serves as president of Fairfax Paving & Concrete. But he’s not just any president; he’s an owner that truly takes care of his employees. He’s an owner that’s out on the field and isn’t afraid to work on the job site alongside his crew.
WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION
Lizabeth Howard, Senior Project Manager — Superior Construction
In September 2022, Hurricane Ian hit Florida’s Gulf Coast, washing away portions of Sanibel Causeway, a three-mile series of bridges. Howard served as project manager of the Sanibel Causeway Reconstruction in 2004 with Boh Bros. Construction, so her knowledge was invaluable. That’s why she was appointed to the Sanibel emergency repairs project team. Her prior work on the bridge and familiarity with the area was instrumental in helping the team work around the clock to rebuild three roadway sections and five washed-out approaches. They restored access to Sanibel Island in just 15 days—weeks ahead of schedule. While executing that job, Howard continued to act as interim director of the concrete division, managing multiple projects across the region. Since then, Howard has seamlessly transitioned into changing roles with different teams in Fort Myers, Tampa, and Jacksonville, Fla., to complete projects critical to the company. Howard is also a member of the steering committee of the Superior Women in Construction professional women’s group, designed to support, empower, and advance women in construction.
RISING PROFESSIONALS IN CONSTRUCTION
Josh Boswell, President, and Danyelle Boswell, Vice President — Phillips Paving Company, Inc.
Over the past 12 months, Josh and Danyelle Boswell have made significant strides by fully transitioning to in-house concrete production using Cemen Tech volumetric mixers. They capitalized on an underserved niche within the concrete industry and created a solution for an industry-wide problem—small concrete pours. This shift allowed them to stop relying on external suppliers, dramatically improving their efficiency and ability to meet project deadlines. They have successfully grown their fleet of volumetric mixers from one to four units to keep up with high demand. Additionally, their ability to adapt quickly to changes in the market, such as supply chain delays and workforce challenges, has positioned them as a trusted provider of smaller concrete jobs, filling a gap that larger ready-mix companies can’t.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Ryan Klacking, Founder & CEO - SlurryMonster
Ryan Klacking, founder of SlurryMonster, has made a notable amount of accomplishments throughout the last five years. But, just in the last 12 months, he has received patents on a few key pieces of industry changing equipment that have made processes for contractors easier, reducing labor hours, men on site, and creating a safer environment all around for teams. Having been a contractor (and still a contractor) for almost 25 years in the polishing space, Klacking saw a need for a slurry management systems that wasn’t just about chemicals, but instilled real practices to help change the behavior and get the burden of remediation off contractor’s backs. Klacking is also the director of the Concrete Polishing Council, and is working on another piece of equipment that will help to shape the industry for the better.
FLAT FLOORS REDUCED LABOR INCREASED PROFITS 24/7 CUSTOMER SUPPORT MADE IN THE USA
INSIDE WORLD OF CONCRETE 2025
THE EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS AROUND THE INDUSTRY’S LARGEST CONCRETE-CENTRIC TRADESHOW. JOIN CONCRETE INDUSTRY PROS AND OVER 1,400 COMPANIES.
Marking the 51st edition of the tradeshow, World of Concrete 2025 premier exhibition serves the concrete construction and masonry industries. In 2024, nearly 60,000 registered professionals attended alongside over 1,400 exhibitors. Last year saw a record all-time high of 185 educational sessions highlighting the vital need of continued education and training. This year is anticipated to be as exciting as ever.
Located in always exciting Las Vegas, World of Concrete (WOC) is scheduled for January 21-23 with educational sessions starting on Jan 20. All registrations must be done online before heading to the Convention Center to print out badges. Registration will remain open online throughout the show.
“I’m excited to see how featured technology at WOC will shape our show/industry over the next decades,” says Steven Pomerantz, senior marketing manager at show-runners Informa PLC. “Currently, the industry is focused on the continuation of advancements in automation to address labor shortages, jobsite safety and efficiency; electrification and reduction of carbon emissions with companies becoming more sustainably focused; advancements
in 3D Printing technology, automation, robotics and AI; and connectivity and data driven cloud-based systems.”
Based on testimonials from past attendees, it’s not uncommon that people have built their businesses from the show. The opportunities to network, see new products, discovering new ways to grow businesses, and continued education have all played major roles in helping contractors accomplish their goals.
EVENTS & WHERE TO FIND THEM
The event has been in Las Vegas since 2005 and show runners say it will remain. The city provides a fitting location that matches the show size with
ample space both indoors and out for exhibitors and demonstrations. Contractors that have attended in recent years will be familiar with the setup. The show will again take place in the North, Central, and South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). While popular elements can be found mixed throughout the halls, each hall features a specific focus.
All main entrances will be open for the show. Although, its worth noting that the LVCC is undergoing an enhancement project on some of its halls.
To date, the Concrete Industry Management (CIM) silent and live auctions have helped raise over $18 million, providing funding for students
All photos provided by World of Concrete
to attend one of the five universities in the program: Middle Tennessee State University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, California State University - Chico, Texas State University, and South Dakota State University. Graduates would have the skill set necessary to meet the growing demands of the industry. This program is made possible, in large part, by the combined efforts of the national and local concrete industry. The National Steering Committee for CIM, in collaboration with local patron groups at all five universities, provides both funding and oversight for the program.
The live auction will take place in the North Hall on Wednesday, January 22, at 1 pm in room N262, with the silent auction 11 am to 12:45 pm in room N265.
If it’s new or trusted in material handling, you’ll find it in the Central Hall. This should be where trucks, excavators, paving equipment and more relevant for the material delivery distribution, concrete placement, and earth moving will be found. Attendees should also expect general equipment, tools, products, and services for the commercial construction and masonry industries.
Central Hall will also home to the return of Work Truck LIVE!, powered by Modern WorkTruck Solutions magazine. This experiential area highlights innovations in the design and configuration of work trucks and accessories that will help contractors increase safety and productivity. Exhibitors and sessions here highlight innovations in the design and configuration of work trucks and innovative accessories that will help contractors increase safety and productivity.
Known as “The Producer Center,” the North Hall features a comprensive marketplace of materials, equipment, demos, specifically for concrete producers. The innovation Technology for Construction showcase features the newest products and tools for the commercial construction industry from top information technology and systems providers.
• Contractors in the precast and masonry industries will be right at home in the North Hall. contractors. Expect to find the latest in precast/prestressed sector and concrete masonry like block, segmental retaining wall units, veneer, slabs, pavers, and roof tiles, admixtures,
equipment, supplies, and pigments.
• Attendees will also find the leaders in concrete reinforcement from bending, fabricating, positioners, and more along with the general tools serving commerical, concrete, and masonry industries.
• The leaders of the equipment and support servieces used in cement manufacturing will be grouped within the Cement Production Pavillion: kilns, separators, mills, dryers, silos, bagging machines, plant automation, instrumentation.
• Discover more informationon autoclaved aerated concrete from internationall renowed experts and what new opportunities there may be.
The South Hall is considered the World of Masonry, collecitng the products, tools, information, and emerging technologies that professionals need to stay on the cutting edge. Here contractors can find booths on repair, demolition, surface prep, scarifying, grinding, sawing, etc. The South Hall will also be the home for surface and decoratvie concrete contractors with products like protection, coatings, cleaning, stains, pigments, molds and more.
During show hours, stop by the Decorative Concrete Experience, presented by the Decorative Concrete Council and the Concrete Polishing Council, sponsored by the American Society of Concrete Contractors.
Just outside South and Central Halls is the Silver Lot which features suppliers, live demos, heavy equipment and more decorative concrete products. Here attendees can catch “Decorative Concrete LIVE!,” an outdoor destination where leading industry artisans are at work showcasing the latest
Surviving World of Concrete & Las Vegas
• Plan. It’s best that everyone do their research before getting lost in the sea of booths. The show is over 750,000 net square feet of indoor and outdoor space—planning head of what exhbitors you want to see will help you make best use of your time. Downloading the app will greatly help.
• Bring lip balm.
• Stay hydrated; drink water.
• Wear sunscreen.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
With Las Vegas having so much to offer, make the time to experience the area outside your hotel room and exhbitor halls. If you find the time, there are great parks and hiking trails all around the city, along with iconic places to visit like the Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon, suggests Steven Pomerantz, senior marketing manager at Informa PLC.
As far as a favorite restaurant to dine, Pomerantz has too many to name. “But,” he says, “what is great about Vegas is you can grab a costeffective bite anywhere in the city, or a high-end meal from one of the many celebrity chef restaurants.
products, tools and equipment by exhibiting companies at the show. For attendees who are looking for opportunities in decorative concrete or simply looking for ways to create new profit centers for their business, this is a must see area. The Experience will feature live and recorded short peer-to-peer presentations from industry experts on topics crafted to help new and experienced practitioners improve their businesses.
Attendees can find exciting championships, skills challenges and creative demos at the Bronze Lot, set just south of the South Hall. The “Western Star Trucks Get Tough Challenge” allows attendees to take out the truck of their coice on a course and win a special prize. (Drivers must have a current CDL.)
The following events take place on Wednesday, January 22 within the Bronze Lot.
• Mason Contractors Association of America’s Masonry Skills Challenge, 8 am. Masonry apprentices in first, second, and third-year levels showcase their training in masonry by competing against winning apprentices from various regions. The contestants put their skills to the test as they complete a surprise project without any preparation or assistance. Awards are presented to the top three projects at each level.
• SPEC MIX TOUGHEST TENDER, 10 am. Talented mason tenders set up their SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 teams. Fastest time wins.
• MCAA’S Fastest Trowel on the Block, 10:20 am. Invited competitors complete as much of a 30-ft.-long wall as possible in a 20-minute heat, while also highlighting the craftsmanship, speed and versatility of masonry systems and the masonry workforce. Teamwork is key.
• SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 World Championship, 11 a.m. Revered as the “Super Bowl of Masonry,” the competition showcases the world’s best bricklayers melding the winning combination of skill, speed, and stamina. The payout for all the hardwork is over $125,000 which includes a new 4x4 Chevrolet truck, KUBOTA RTV-X1130 utility vehicle, Essick Pro12 Mixer and thousands in cold cash and prizes. Attendees are welcome to watch. This is a popular evet, find your spot early
Of course, you’re more than welcome over at the Concrete Contractor booth in the Central Hall, #C4236.
CONCRETE VIBRATING EQUIPMENT
Oztec’s RubberHead’s design keeps concrete in contact with the entire length of the vibrator head which causes strong shockwaves to be sent off of the entire length of the head creating a larger radius of action, producing denser concrete with fewer voids. RubberHeads are available with an optional rubber-coated extension piece.
• Extension piece reduces the chance of the head becoming entangled in the rebar
• Vibrates at 12,000 vpm, never drops below 10,500 vpm when lowered deep into low slump concrete
The ACBe cordless concrete vibration system consists of the backpack with integrated converter, removable/replaceable BP1000 lithium ion battery and internal vibrator.
• Backpack adjusts for varying heights, sizes with lightweight fabric, padded shoulders and even weight distribution
• Vibrator shaft connects to bottom center of backpack, allowing for easy left-hand or right-hand operation
• Modular vibration system allows use of 1.5-in., 1.8-in. and 2.3-in. internal head diameters and 5-, 10- and 16-ft. shaft lengths
The MX FUEL Concrete Vibrator was designed to consolidate up to 45 yds3 on a single charge with a 2-in. head and 14-ft. shaft while eliminating cords and tripping hazards for a safer and more productive placement. The MX FUEL Concrete Vibrator increases productivity and safety on the jobsite by eliminating trip hazards and the need for cords and gas generators with its cordless innovation. The MX FUEL technology with built-in POWERSTATE Brushless Motor delivers the power to push a 2 1/2-in. head at over 10,000 VPM for optimal concrete consolidation. Accepts heads up to 2-1/2 in. and shafts up to 21 ft. long.
The NCV 4-22 Compact concrete vibrator helps to ensure a quality concrete pour every time without the hassle of corded or gas-powered concrete vibration solutions. The handheld, Nuron battery-powered NCV 4-22 is designed for jobsites with tightly spaced rebar. Designed for settling concrete, this heavy-duty finishing tool is cordless and powered by the Nuron battery platform.
• Weight: 4.52-lbs.
• Rated vibration at vibratory poker: 15,000 Vibrations/minute
• Battery operating voltage: 21.6V
The Control Speed Vibrator is a lightweight, durable, electric flex shaft concrete vibrator controlled through connectivity.
• Operator can use Bluetooth and the Minnich app to choose between set speeds of 6,000, 8,000, 10,500 and open vpm
• Maintains preset speed as the concrete load changes
• 15-amp (115-volt) universal motor drives a full line of the company’s shafts and heads and comes with a quick disconnect to adapt to many other vibrator brands
• Frame-handle position offers many ergonomic user features and comes with a shoulder harness
DEWALT’s POWERSHIFT is an electrified equipment system for concrete jobsites. Designed to meet the needs of concrete professionals, the electrified line will allow users to transition away from gaspowered equipment. The roll cage protects the battery and the power unit when sliding down column and wall formwork and when sitting on the ground for footers and piers. The vibrator has the power to deliver 2-1/4-in. head performance and a consistent 12,000 vpm to handle slump. This machine has 16 head and shaft combinations available, which include 1-1/2-, 1-3/4-, 2- and 2-1/2-in. heads and shafts at 7, 10, 16 and 21 ft. The vibrator also includes remote activation via DEWALT’s Wireless Tool Control technology.
Minnich Flex Shaft Vibrators: The Experts Choice for Solid Results
Minnich Flex Shaft Vibrators
Built to exceed your expectations and outperform the competition. With results in mind, our vibrators are engineered for control and durability, ensuring a smooth and flawless pour every time. With more control over your results and a longer lifespan than other options on the market, our flex shaft concrete vibrators are the perfect choice for the professional looking to take their work to the next level.
PROJECT PROFILE
SUPER-TALL IN SOUTH FLORIDA
WHEN AN 18-FT. THICK MAT SLAB FOR A NEW BUILDING IN SOUTH FLORIDA NEEDED PLACEMENT, CAPFORM INC. STEPPED UP.
Anew hotel/condo construction is being undertaken along the waves of the Biscayne Bay and beneath the Miami heat.
A structure of many firsts for many, the 18-ft. deep foundation of the new Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences had a special set of challenges. Construction began July 2022 and the mat slab was placed June 2024, with a January 2028 completion.
Seen as almost three different projects in the same structure, the super-tall hotel and condo Waldorf Astoria building is planned to be 10,134 ft.—100 stories and 93 construction levels. Offset stacked cubes will shift as the building climbs into the sky.
The Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences – Miami project is managed by Property Markets Group (PMG) with Jessica Berthin, Senior Project Manager. Concrete contractor on the job was Capform Inc. Capform was founded by Mario Dozo in Carrollton, Texas, in 1971 and opened operations in Florida in 1987. With experience of working on tall buildings, they were a match for the Waldorf Astoria project. Capform’s CEO Francisco Anderson claims that his team have built 5 of 9 tallest buildings in the state.
“If it’s concrete, we’ve done it all,” says Anderson. “We’ve done really small projects. We’ve built some high-end/highprofile single-family homes. To date, some of our largest projects include the Dallas Cowboy Stadium.” Due to the demand in
the South Florida area, they’re very much geared toward the high-rise market.
Additional concrete subcontractors were concrete supplier Supermix and CNC Concrete Pumping. Rebar installation was by Titon Builders.
“We’ve poured a lot of these large continuous mat pours. Waldorf was not the largest from a volume standpoint, but it’s definitely the deepest mat we’ve ever placed,” notes Anderson. Even at its 18-ft. deep placement, it was the same concerns any contractor would keep an eye on: heat of hydration and keeping the mat cool.
A first super-tall for PMG as well as the hotel brand, Berthin is excited for the design. The tallest Waldorf previously was 35-40 stories in New York City, Central Park off of 5th Avenue. .
“Building after Surfside in general, in the state [and] throughout the country has really changed. Here in Miami, the City of Miami have implemented changes in to how buildings are built now,” she adds. “How not to cause lots of
vibration for the neighbors, to not affect neighboring structures.”
One of the challenges was the planning of the basement and foundation with water—construction hits the water table at about 3 ft. In order to not have to use traditional sheet piling, they opted to use a deep soil mix where the improve the soils by injecting grout before excavating. Essentially making the soil more rigid so that when contractors dig and install perimeter bracing/shoring walls (that are not sheet pile), there is no water intrusion.
“It’s costs three times the amount of traditional sheet piling, but it’s less noisy,” says Berthin. “It’s much, much, more efficient and you save a lot of money on the dewatering (which is understandably, a big expense in South Florida).” While the project isn’t the first time this method is used in the area, it is for the area’s super-tall buildings.
Being built seashore adjacent at a mere block from the coast of Biscayne Bay, the structure will have to contend with wind
Photos provided by Property Markets Group
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pressures, wind loads and everything that comes along with the location. Cantilevers will be strategically placed to be optimal for those wind loads for stability and keep it as rigid as possible.
LOGISTICS & PLACEMENT
Getting concrete to the location was another special undertaking. The site sits directly across of the Bayside Marketplace and near the Kaseya Center (formerly known as the American Airlines Arena) and home to the Miami Heat. Placement began in the summer but a concert was happening every weekend making it challenging to find the continuous days.
“We knew it would take up to 36 hours of a continuous pour,” says Berthin. About 1,400 loads from 85 trucks were expected to need to travel from the highway, down the main avenue and along any traffic at the Kaseya Center. They eventually decided on the weekend of June 14—the same night of a Justin Timberlake concert.
One of the bigger challenges was getting approval on how to get the
trucks in and out from local authorities, special event management, the city building department, and public works. More came from ramps closing in the evenings and during the week for a bridge construction.
A staging area was rented across from the arena to act as a staging area to allow concrete to wait should traffic become backed up then head to the site. It was barely used.
“Once things started flowing, it really was very seamless and smooth,” says Berthin. The general contractor and every subcontractor needed constant communication—not to mention the neighboring businesses: two museums, the port, part of Miami Dade College, another hotel, and two condos.
Placing the foundation at the site had 5 concrete pumps being fed by 2 trucks per pump. From turning into the site, connecting to the pump, emptying it, and getting it sent to be washed before exiting took no more than 10 minutes. Eventually, they ended up needing 1,200 loads—about 12,440 cubic yards of concrete. Only 6 were rejected for the
slump not being adequate.
Knowing it was June in the south of Florida, the mix was designed with the temperature in mind. “Generally speaking, our structural designer had wanted the concrete mix to stay 185 degrees and not above,” says Berthin. The 8,000 psi mix included 60-70% slag to keep the temperatures down. The main plants sourcing the concrete used sprinklers to keep the aggregate cool prior to mixing. Insulation blankets were used on the mat to keep the temperature regulated during the day.
“It’s a huge coordination effort,” says Anderson. “I think this was probably one of the smoothest as far as how well the process went. The huge contributing factor to it was the level of coordination with not only your subcontractors, the customer, the general contractor, and local authorities.
Berthin’s advice for contractors: plan. “The whole thing is a lesson learned,” she says. “The scale of the project, that’s the exciting part for me. I’ve done mat pours before…but when you do it on scale—it becomes a challenge.”
POWERING PROGRESS
The electrified DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ lineup offers concrete contractors a powerful solution for reducing their carbon footprints – without sacrificing jobsite performance.
THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION HAS ARRIVED
Sustainability is more than just a buzzword in the concrete industry. Rather, the adoption of more sustainable solutions is essential.
Cement manufacturing is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, and experts from the World Economic Forum find concrete responsible for about 8 percent of all CO2 emissions.
The transition to greener tools and technologies has become increasingly vital, especially as many regions have adopted strict regulations regarding construction equipment emissions. Governments and regulatory bodies around the world are imposing a variety of environmental regulations.
“By adopting more sustainable practices, such as using battery-powered tools instead of gas, contractors can comply with these regulations in order to help avoid potential fines or penalties,” said Richard Cacchiotti, Director of Product Development, DEWALT.
Not only can more sustainable solutions benefit the environment, but Cacchiotti believes the switch to batterypowered tools may offer companies an economic advantage.
“More sustainable solutions may lead to cost savings in the long run through improved efficiency, reduced energy consumption and ultimately lower operating costs,” he said. “Additionally, companies that adopt more sustainable practices may benefit from incentives and subsidies.”
The new era of sustainable power tools
The promise of eco-conscious solutions may sound appealing. However, many concrete contractors who have long depended on gas-powered tools may question whether battery-powered tools are ready to meet the power and efficacy demands of their jobs.
This was a question DEWALT sought to answer with the development of the DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ system. The groundbreaking cordless equipment system was designed to optimize the workflow of concrete jobsites through electrification – and to prove that going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing performance.
The launch of DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ represents another major milestone in DEWALT’s 100-year legacy of leading innovation, playing a critical role in making the industry’s electrification efforts a reality through a system of tools that will not only enable time and cost efficiency but enhance concrete workers’ user experience and help reduce environmental impact while in use.
The product line includes a vibrator, backpack vibrator, concrete power screed, rammer, plate compactor, core drill and stand, all of which use the same DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ 554 WH battery and 550W charger.
The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ system can produce up to 60% less CO2e emissions during use when compared to leading gas-powered tools.1
“This is significant in meeting sustainability goals while maintaining jobsite efficiency,” said Cacchiotti, explaining that the DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ system is designed to optimize power usage, which can lead to reduced energy consumption.
By using energy efficiently, the system can help decrease the overall environmental footprint of the tools during operation compared to gas. For example, when placing concrete with DEWALT POWERSHIFT™, one crew can produce up to 87% less CO2e emissions during use per year vs. gas-powered equipment.2
Electric power tools that work hard
The team at DEWALT knows a more eco-conscious power tool won’t be of any benefit to the environment if it doesn’t benefit the user. It wouldn’t be used.
“We owe the user a compelling reason why,” said
Cacchiotti. “The need for increased productivity is a must and client requests for greener construction are not going away. So, these products must be better than what they are using today to have them change.”
Cacchiotti believes users can find reasons to make the change when they understand the power and capabilities of the DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ 554 WH battery, which rivals approximately a 7.0-hp gas engine.3 The battery utilizes the latest in technology, lithium-ion pouch cells, which will deliver up to 5,500 watts of power to the tools and are thermally stable which helps to prevent the battery from overheating.
The best part? DEWALT’s battery technology is designed to be highly efficient, providing longer run times and reducing the need for frequent recharging.
“This system will run for over one hour. Turn it on and let it go,” said Cacchiotti. “A gas backpack vibrator will typically run for 45 minutes.”
When the DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ battery does need to be recharged, it can be fully charged in under 52 minutes, “which is game changing for users from a productivity standpoint.”
In addition to the 554WH battery, the system can be powered by DEWALT FLEXVOLT® batteries with the use of an adapter.
The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ system is also built to last. Designed to be robust and reliable, the tools last longer and need to be replaced less frequently. This reduces environmental waste, as well as costs to the user.
“Adopting environmentally friendly practices can be more economically feasible for contractors in some cases,” said Cacchiotti.
With all these benefits, he believes the transition to more sustainable power solutions might actually become more popular.
“Over the next ten years, we anticipate roughly thirty percent of the light equipment market will migrate over to an electrified power source.”
Recognized innovation: Making TIME’s List of the Best Inventions of 2024
Knowing you’ve developed something special is one thing. Being recognized as groundbreaking is significant.
Since its debut at World of Concrete 2024, the DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ System has won multiple industry innovation awards, including POPULAR SCIENCE’s Best of What’s New Awards, Fast Company’s Innovation by Design Award, Concrete Contractor Top Products of 2024 and Equipment Today 2024 Contractors’ Top 50 New Products.
In November 2024, the DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ system was named one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2024, an award that honors groundbreaking inventions that are changing how we live, work, play, and think about what’s possible. The award recognizes the DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ System, which optimizes the workflow of concrete jobsites through electrified products, in the sustainability category.
TIME’s list honors 200 inventions and 50 special mention inventions. Each nomination for the list was judged on “a number of key factors, including originality, efficacy, ambition, and impact.” The fact that DEWALT is the only tool manufacturer represented on TIME’s Best Inventions list is a testament to the DEWALT POWERSHIFT™’s performance and leadership in sustainability.
NOW AVAILABLE ACROSS NORTH AMERICA
The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Cordless Equipment System is now available in-market across North America. The highly anticipated cordless system optimizes the workflow of concrete and construction jobsites through electrification. Concrete contractors can now purchase the full product line, which has been tested and embraced on jobsites across North America.
One user shared, “Once everyone uses POWERSHIFT, they’re going to realize the ease of use and it’s going to completely change everyone. They’re not going to go back to traditional corded and gas-powered.”
EXPERIENCE POWERSHIFT™ IN ACTION AT WORLD OF CONCRETE
To experience the DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ system in action and to see DEWALT’s complete line of tools, accessories, anchors, and technology made to empower concrete professionals, visit their booth (#031157 Silver Lot) at World of Concrete® in Las Vegas from January 21-23, 2025.
To learn more about DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ visit dewalt.com/powershift.
1 Vs. leading competitors, average of individual DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ equipment weighted by lifetime emissions during use; US average grid output emission rates and grid loss based on the US EPA’s eGRID2022 database, published Jan. 30, 2024 (epa.gov/egrid); fuel emissions factors based on the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Carbon Dioxide Emissions Coefficients for finished motor gasoline, published Sep. 7, 2023 (eia.gov).
2 Vs. leading competitors; One (1) crew is defined as two (2) DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Vibrators and one DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Screed; US average gride output emission rates and grid loss based on the US EPA’s eGRID20222 database, published Jan. 20, 2024 (epa.gov/ egrid); fuel emissions factors based on the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Carbon Dioxide Emissions Coefficients for finished motor gasoline, published Sep. 7, 2023 (epa.gov)
3 Battery can provide up to 5,500 Watts of continuous power while discharging and not exceed its thermal shutdown temperature. Equivalent to 7-hp. Not in application.
DEWALT
What to Consider in Concrete Grinders
Consider these factors when you select your new machine.
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When I look at today’s polished concrete equipment I see a large variety of available equipment, styles, types, and options. Most true concrete polishing machines are planetary, whereas most surface preparation machines are counter rotary style. You can still polish with counter rotary machines. And with planetary, you can do surface prep. I know it’s a little confusing. How do you know what type of machine you should be operating? What kind of tools are best for your machine? What kind of power should I look at—high
voltage, single phase, propane?
There are a lot of decisions to be made when looking at equipment. The first thing to consider is what type of work you mostly do. We talk to a lot of guys that perform surface prep only for coatings or other surfaces. For that type of work, a counter rotary gear-driven machine will perform the best. Gear-driven machines (as opposed to belt-driven) can deliver more torque to the floor when dealing with coating removal or heavy cementitious membranes. They tend to grind faster because of the direct transfer of power to the floor, and extra head weight. You can still
polish with these grinders, but they require more skill by the operator, using oscillation to prevent striping the floor.
Larger Jobs — Another factor to consider is production, how big an area do you typically deal with? 5,000 sq. ft.? 50,000 sq. ft.? The bigger floors will require larger platform machines. If I were only polishing large areas (over 20,000 sq. ft.) I would look at a power trowel system. These systems are super-fast, wet cutting systems. Not for coating removal or demolition but great for polishing. You will however need to learn about slurry removal, treatment,
EQUIPMENT FOCUS
and disposal. There are companies that can help you with that.
Smaller Jobs — If your work is primarily small to medium size polishing projects, then you may want to consider a smaller platform planetary grinder. Planetary machines are more forgiving for novice polishers and are less likely to produce striping or tracking lines. These can be gear or belt-driven machines. Single-phase power or even propane, great for residential or small commercial retail. Easy to mobilize and get onsite, great for small areas or hallways. These machines are also great for polishing cementitious overlays or doing mock-up panels for a larger project. There are also some hybrid type machines in the marketplace: two motor machines that can run the heads in two directions at once (planetary) or turn the heads in the same direction (counter rotary). These machines have some advantages but require an engineering understanding to operate them properly. I would not recommend these for beginners.
Standard Features — Other factors or features you may find useful will depend on what the manufacturer offers as standard equipment. Some of the more innovative features I’ve seen over the last few years include multi-position weight kits, allowing you to add or remove head weight as needed for the job you’re doing.
Battery transport systems are also useful when mobilizing on and off projects or loading from a trailer using a ramp. These machines have a travel wheel that can be removed when not in use and allow you to move a heavy machine without manually pushing.
Remote control machines have been in use for several years but recent improvements in software allow for more features such as oscillation control and water jet switches.
Another feature I like is machine-mounted lighting, LED lights in the front and behind the machine where the operator stands is a great feature, especially when working nights where there may be a lot of shadows or low light areas.
A lot of machines come with built in water tanks, depending
on whether you are a wet or dry polisher you may find this feature useful. If you are a primarily a wet polishing contractor, I would look at the tank capacity to see how much it can hold. Also, electronic dispensing control is great for this type of use.
Having proper pick points on a machine frame is also a great safety feature, making it easy to lift the machine, (these should be clearly marked).
Any concrete grinder today will be equipped with a dust shroud, so when connected to a vacuum system the operator can work dust free. This is mandatory for compliance with the OSHA Silica rule.
Maintenance — Other considerations would be machine maintenance requirements. For example, what is the interval for changing the gear oil for gear-driven machines? For belt driven machines, how often do you need to tension or replace a belt?
Make sure the electronic box is well-sealed and ventilated to prevent overheating. The control panels or remote-control features should be clearly marked and easy to understand.
Tooling — The type of tooling plates should be considered. Make sure you are able to run the tooling you need for your project requirements. Some manufacturers offer universal plates that can accommodate many different styles
of tooling while others are proprietary and only allow you to run one type of tool. The style of the coupler for the tooling plates can also vary from very soft to very firm or hard. Harder couplers will help cut a flatter surface, good for coating removal, but tend to expose more aggregates when riding over a high point in the floor. Softer couplers are more forgiving for polishing, allowing the machine to follow the floor. These soft couplers will wear out more quickly. Check them often to make sure they are in serviceable condition.
Power — When it comes to power, I like to look at the amp draw of a motor vs horsepower. For example, a higher horsepower (or KW motor) will draw more amps than a smaller one. Going to a high-voltage unit will reduce the amp draw required for the machine. There is a learning curve to all of this, some of you know what you like and what you need. Others may just be starting out and need to discover that perfect machine for your company. Ask around and demo a machine when you can so you can try before you buy. A lot of distributors and manufacturers have demo machines you can rent or try out so you can see what works best for you.
Clark Branum is the decorative/polished concrete specialist for the American Society of Concrete Contractors.
NEW MAGNA-TRAP ® PRO-TOOLING
INTRODUCING EDCO PRO-TOOLING
The EDCO PRO-Tooling offerings include the next-generation of products for end-users, allowing even more choice based on application. These products were developed from years of industry experience and feedback from users where EDCO engineers have been able to zero-in on the needs of contractors and develop the tooling that would bring them the most benefit.
The tooling goes beyond the need of entry-level contractor and provides a broad range of solutions for those with specialty applications.
FOR FLOORING PROS
Aggressively
Extremely
NEW DOUBLE DYMA-DOTS 30% Taller Segments
DYMA-SEGS
Taller Segments
CONCRETE MIXING EQUIPMENT
MudMixer is one of the fastest, easiest, multi-use mixers on the market. It is lightweight, easily mobile (like a wheelbarrow), extremely consistent, and has the ability to chew through over 40 bags of premixed concrete, mortar, or stucco per hour. MudMixer replaces the cumbersome barrel mixer and the wheelbarrow. Simply plug the mixer into your power source, attach the water hose and you can mix as many bags as you need at the slump level you desire. The water dial provides tremendous variability in the water delivered. The machine features a chute that swivels 330-degrees to make delivery straight to your forms easy. Cleanup was designed to be a breeze.
EZG Manufacturing’s Mobile Mud Hog Trench Mixer is a hydraulic-controlled solution designed for pour applications in tight spaces and utility work. Designed for microtrenching and utility work, the Mobile Mud Hog Trench Mixer features controlled material flow. The hydraulic-controlled mixer can be used with walk-behind and standard- or fullsized skid steers. The Mobile Mud Hog Trench Mixer has a range of features that contribute to its performance. It is equipped with sturdy integrated lifting pockets for transport and comes with a standard skid steer attachment plate. The mixing bin accommodates 9 cu. ft. or 1/3 yd. of material, equivalent to eight to nine 80-lb. premix bags.
The Super Sack Systems V3 Dry Material Hopper by Strong Mfg. Makinex MS-150 Mixing Station & Mixer
The Super Sack Systems V3 attachment by Strong Manufacturing, was designed to reduce the labor cost of moving dry material to your concrete mixer quickly and easily. Built as an independent unit, the Super Sack V3 can work on new or old machines with a hydraulically assisted two-piece pivoting auger. With a 15,000 lb. capacity, it can do the equivalent of dropping four bags of mix all in 30 seconds—saving time, enhancing productivity, and sparing a lot of back-breaking manual labor. The Super Sack Systems V3Strong Manufacturing
• Flexible drop dust sock to help control dust
• Hydraulicly assisted
• Diesel powered
• Mobile setup
The MS-150 Mixing Station and Mixer from Makinex for self-leveling cements, compounds, and epoxies is capable of blending up to six bags in seven minutes, all while ensuring precise pouring and reduced waste. The tool saves time and labor on flooring projects, and curbs operator fatigue and injury thanks to its ergonomic lightweight design. Meticulous mixing and pouring within the single unit is practically guaranteed. It features a removable vacuum attachment for spills and dust suppression, helping to reduce construction dust (airborne particles) from construction activities.
Multiquip offers the battery-powered MixN-Go Concrete Mixer for concrete projects, rental applications and construction sites. The product features zero emissions and a rechargeable battery drive. Designed with durability, the Mix-N-Go features a polyethylene drum designed for removal of dried concrete. Complementing this is a heavy-duty steel frame that not only supports the motor and battery assembly but also offers stability during use. Its versatile design includes a pedestal assembly, facilitating the dumping of material into a wheelbarrow. Moreover, equipped with standard pneumatic tires, the mixer can also be used as a wheelbarrow for maneuverability around the jobsite.
Durex offers wear-resistant urethane, urethaneceramic and rubber-ceramic liner solutions that provide long-term protection in concrete plants and concrete trucks. Both standard and custom liners are available for customers. The products are designed to combat impact, abrasion, noise and sticking. Compatible with plants and trucks from major manufacturers, these liners can be installed by welding, bolting or with high-strength magnets. Durex urethane liners provide protection in severe conditions. Urethane-ceramic and rubber-ceramic liners are for harsh wear areas, including turnheads, flop gates, impact areas and belt transition areas. An application for rubber-ceramic liners is on blade tip liners within the mixer.
TYING IN CONCRETE FOUNDATIONS
SUPPLYING CONCRETE FOUNDATIONS WITH A SOLUTION FOR EFFICIENT REINFORCEMENT PLACEMENT, MUSTAFA ALI OF MAX USA IS UNIQUELY POSITIONED TO OFFER A PERSPECTIVE ON THE COMING YEAR.
Where both concrete foundations and slabs use reinforced bars to improve strength and control cracking, foundations require a heavier rebar to support vertical structures. This sector typically requires more specialized labor—more technical work. Rebar placement in foundations requires people who are trained for the job, says Mustafa Ali. A shortage of skilled labor makes this challenging.
Ali is the marketing executive at Max USA Corp. Max USA are best known for their rebar tier tools. Even if the projects are similar, the way concrete contractors work and demographics are constantly changing. Max USA first came out with their tools addressing the musculature skeletal issues, carpal tunnel, lower back pain, etc., that construction—not to mention most concrete work specifically—has a reputation for.
Not exactly an attractive option for employment for younger audience, the industry’s challenges with skilled labor shortages are compounded with these issues. Max USA’s reps are addressing this by meeting with the younger crowd, showing them their solutions to reinforce that they wouldn’t be bent over tying
rebar all day. However, there’s education in that grueling part of the job. “We’re definitely not trying to take away that before you use a rebar tyer, you should learn how to do a bunch of different ties…so you know what you’re doing.”
PROJECTS & PROJECTIONS
For the residential and infrastructure, Ali believes that 2025 will be strong,
especially with road and bridge infrastructure projects. Despite the fact that about $200 billion has not yet been allocated, the Infrastructure Bill should help the industry grow as more projects come up. His outlook on the commercial construction side, however, isn’t as optimistic. He believes that the construction slowdown seen in 2024 will
continue for office retail spaces.
“As far as rebar goes, I think we’ll see a rising demand,” says Ali. Due to the demand via infrastructure projects and increased supply costs, can affect the price of rebar.
With interest rates anticipated to go down (even if slightly), the residential housing challenges may be alleviated which might allow builders to meet the growing demand and better stabilize home prices. Referencing a recent Dodge report, Ali anticipates residential to continue to grow, albeit moderately, calling it a “recovery phase.” “I think that will increase with the lower interest rate, and contractors will continue to build,” he says. Unfortunately for the rebar (and ties) used in the foundations of 2025’s built market, the increased demand may also affect the price of steel.
However, he’s still optimistic that there will be a lot of building done in 2025 and up to 2027 when the Infrastructure Bill should be fully allocated.
Q. What do you see as the top challenges for contractors in 2025?
Ali: “As far as labor shortage, it’s definitely not going to change. That’s going to be a problem. In this industry, I think it’s really attracting those younger workers to come and work…that happens with every industry.
One of our biggest concerns for contractors as well is rising material costs due to inflation, supply chains, raw materials—anything overseas affected by global tensions. Thankfully the port strikes that we recently had, they didn’t last very long. We had a couple ships shipping over our rebar tyers that were delayed [but] they came to a temporary agreement so it didn’t really affect too much.
Another challenge is there’s been a more uptick with hurricanes and floods. Its possible that residential contractors will see some new regulations put into place.”
Other Trends
Other trends to watch for in the coming year:
• More sustainable, greener, options
• More integration of technology into construction materials
• AI and robotic solutions
FORM YOUR BUSINESS »
PREPARING THE FLEET FOR GREEN CEMENT
THERE CAN BE DRAWBACKS WHEN INCORPORATING GREEN CEMENT INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL. PRICE AND AVAILABILITY ARE BARRIERS, BUT IT CAN ALSO HAVE A STEEP LEARNING CURVE IN PRACTICAL USE.
Although green cement was invented in the late ‘90s, it hadn’t managed to gain much traction. Over the last few years, however, you may have heard the term “green cement” gaining ground as a method of reducing carbon emissions associated with cement manufacturing. The concrete industry accounts for roughly seven percent of CO2 emissions globally. Global Efficiency Intelligence reports that during the concrete production process, cement is responsible for more than 80% of CO2 emissions through calcination and fuel combustion.
To combat this, world leaders at the 26th-annual United Nations Climate Change Conference created the Breakthrough Agenda aimed at supporting clean technology processes, including power, road transport, steel, buildings, cement, and concrete, among other things. This agenda could amplify the use of green cement throughout the construction industry.
WHAT IS GREEN CEMENT?
At the most basic level, green cement is made using waste or renewable materials and is manufactured in an
eco-friendly way. While green cement has the potential to cut emissions, there can be drawbacks when trying to incorporate its use into your business model. Not only is price and availability a barrier but as with anything new, it can also have a steep learning curve in practical use.
With the green cement market projected to grow from just over $39 billion in 2024 to roughly $83 billion by 2032, let’s take a look at a few different kinds of green cement, including the pros and cons.
Magnesium oxychloride cement: Magnesium oxychloride cement is an air-hardening gel material made from light-burnt magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, and water. Magnesium oxychloride cement has such benefits as strength, fast setting speed compared to other green cements, thermal insulation, and fire resistance. On the other hand, poor water resistance has led to limited development.
Ferrocement: Ferrocement is made by mixing silica and iron and can be used as a precast unit or panel, making it relatively easy to transport. A downside of this type of green cement is that it can be difficult to work with and labor-intensive, so it may not be suitable in high labor-cost areas.
Geopolymer cement: Also known as alkali-activated cement, this green option is manufactured using aluminosilicates. While alkali-activated slag cement is a type of geopolymer that has been in use since the mid-20th century, it’s still not quite widely available and is only recently being looked at in the U.S. The benefits of geopolymer cement depend on the composition and proportions of its components. This cement provides such benefits as insulation and water durability with higher early strength, but it can become brittle over time and is prone to shrinkage.
Calcium sulfoaluminate cement: Calcium sulfoaluminate cement is a mixture of limestone, fly ash, and gypsum, and is lauded for its strength, rapid setting times, and low shrinkage rates, as well as its resistance to sulfate, which makes it ideal for use in coastal areas. One of the most widely used types of green cement, it does carry a few drawbacks, including a short setting time, which can be challenging in colder weather. It also causes some challenges with workability, which can lead to difficulties for construction workers.
PRICING FORECAST
Like many newer green building materials, price can pose a barrier for
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entry, with costs varying by region and availability. And while the push toward going net-zero in the cement industry may result in a 40 to 120% increase in cement costs, it may not be quite as bad as one might think. Overall, the components of green cement are relatively cheap, though the manufacturing process may serve to drive up the price. Currently, the national average cost of conventional cement is about $125 per ton. Contrast that with the price of green cements in California and Texas, spanning from $100-$160 per ton and $80-$120 per ton, respectively, according to IndexBox, which indicates some areas may feel the price difference more than others.
The U.S. General Services Administration recently ran a national survey of more than 130 businesses, 55% of which expressed that their green and conventional cement products were close to price parity, though a supplier in Massachusetts acknowledged a small cost premium for green cement—about $2-$20 per cubic yard depending on the mix. There is an expected reduction of price premiums for green cements as both availability and local supply increase, though, seeing as regions like the western U.S—where green cement is the norm—can procure it at a less than 1% price premium.
BUDGETING FOR GREEN MATERIALS
Until green cement is more widely available in more areas of the country, it’s important to keep the projected price differences top of mind. Making room in the budget is key to addressing this issue and, because a construction business’s fleet makes up a hefty portion of expenses, getting a handle on fleet costs can help provide the budgetary flexibility needed to offset any higher material costs. Getting control of fleet expenses is easier said than done, especially for fleets using manual methods of data collection, like paper or spreadsheets. Because service and fuel spend make up the brunt of a fleet’s expenses, those are key areas to
use
optimization
to improve preventive maintenance compliance, making it easy to plan downtime and manage fuel effectively—cutting on fuel misuse and theft.
target to improve cost control.
Ensuring preventive—and proactive—maintenance is done in a timely manner can greatly decrease asset downtime and repairs while maximizing the lifecycle of vehicles and equipment. Construction fleets can use a fleet optimization platform to improve preventive maintenance compliance through service reminder alerts, making it easy to plan downtime effectively. Digital inspections in these types of platforms automatically alert management when an inspection item fails, allowing for issue severity prioritization so critical issues can be addressed expediently.
Fleets can take advantage of fuel management within these platforms as well, with automatic alerts around fuel exceptions and discrepancies, cutting down on fuel misuse and even theft.
Fuel consumption trends can also be easily tracked to see high-cost assets that may need to be replaced. When integrating telematics with an optimization platform, you can monitor true versus operational idle time as well, which can help reduce unnecessary wear and tear and fuel consumption. While green cement may not be as high an upfront cost as something like an electric vehicle or piece of equipment, depending on where you’re operating, it may still pose a monetary procurement challenge. Making room in your budget can help offset higher upfront costs, allowing you to be an early adopter of green cement to help meet sustainability goals and appeal to carbon-conscious clients.
Rachael Plant is a senior content marketing specialist for Fleetio.
Construction fleets can
a fleet
platform
Fleetio
Fleetio
THE LAST PLACEMENT PREPARING FOR FUTURE CHALLENGES…NOW!
Rarely do I write “time period” articles related to what is happening at a single point in history. My written works have normally been more timeless while addressing leadership, executing field planning strategies and the like. But with recent events over the past few years, my engagement with contractors around the world has led me to address some of the more current issues.
No doubt the impact made from COVID-19 is global and it was, and is, devastating. This epidemic also “carpet bombed” leadership, production, safety, quality, etc., like we have never seen before in our industry, leaving some incredibly negative consequences in its wake. Between supply-chain inconsistencies, ongoing government overreach and financial concerns filling much of senior leader’s discussions, it is important that we strengthen our focus as owners and leaders moving ahead.
Financially, contractors must take an honest look at their cash situation. “Cash is king,” as the saying goes, may be more appropriate today than in the past. As interest rates are again moving northward, it is critical that contractors take a second, third and even fourth look at their cash situation, being careful to take borrowed money that will have greater rates than we have seen in many years.
Purchasing equipment may require more evaluation than in prior years. Contractors love their equipment and, like a proud collector of antique cars, it’s easy for many contractors to build a fleet of equipment. It is good for one’s pride to look out over one’s yard and enjoy the line-up of trucks, trailers, and needed pieces of equipment, clean and shining cats, deer, and such.
Leasing equipment may need to be more the norm for contractors, and for more than only financial reasons. At the rate of updates now being provided on equipment, it may make more sense to lease such equipment where software upgrades are most likely covered as part of one’s lease arrangement.
Material costs have sky-rocketed in many parts of the U.S. and the outlook doesn’t immediately look better, although any significant return to fossil fuel development would provide some relief. But again, at this time it doesn’t look promising. So, what’s a contractor to do? Keep a few things in mind,
including:
• Don’t be shy about bringing increased material costs to the attention of your customers. They don’t like it either, but most are more understanding as they too pay more at the pump and grocery store.
• Conduct a potential volume need and negotiate with your material supplier. They may not be able to help as much as in past times but stay at it. Material plants are still a bit more loyal to those who have stuck with them.
• Tighten up your estimating procedures to ascertain that you are bidding more exact what the material use will be. This will require a more accountable documenting on material use on projects. I still see contractors throwing a few extra yards of materials, tons of asphalt, etc. into a bid “just in case.”
Tool purchases have always been a lost leader for contractors between tool breakage, loss, and theft. Most contractors admit they know that they have always had tools break, lost or stolen, but it was just part of the industry. There is some truth to that, but contractors may want to rethink their tool use, storage and security. This isn’t about badgering workers when they break a broom handle or lose a screwdriver, but it is about building more accountability about maintaining and retaining tools. This is a “nickel and dime” cost compared to equipment and worker costs, but this component is still adding up to 2% - 5%, and more for some contractors. This is a needless cost that we can improve.
Employee costs continue to be as much or more rise than ever. With new employee loyalty at perhaps one of the lowest points in many years, contractors are working harder than ever to find the right worker and retain that same worker. I’ve written and spoke on this topic for years, but we are just having more challenges in our industry than we have ever faced. Couple of thoughts for the next few years:
1. Start preparing better when recruiting and interviewing. We’re still seeing way too much hiring just because we’re very short on the bench. Be careful about giving in to this. It often creates more problems.
2. Pay competitive wages, but more importantly, start training on Day One.
3. Start paying retention bonuses, to the
new worker, foreman and your crew. It’s the foreman or crew that often run off a new worker. Give them an incentive to work with, develop, and retain the new worker.
4. Personally make more trips to follow-up and speak to new workers. My research has shown that the top three reasons why new workers quit early, many after just 30-40 days is because:
• No one is talking to me
• No one is training me
• No one is following up or coaching me
You must be more active and visible in the new worker’s start with you. Create a regular training program for workers that includes tool handling, required work processes, material knowledge and how to be a better team player, improve safety, etc. We are hiring workers who do not know the difference between a Phillips head screwdriver and a wrench. Educate, educate, educate!
If any of the recent developments in our industry are an indication of what we are about to see in the next few years, it would be wise to go back and navigate through each of the items spelled out in this article. No one has a crystal ball, but you would almost have to be blind and deaf to read the tea leaves. Things look extremely challenging moving forward. Tread sure-footed by being honest and quick to address future indicators that might reflect bumps and hurdles ahead. The successful contractor has always taken an inventory of his approach and then preparing his or her company to take on the future challenges, head on.
Being prepared for the worst may help you achieve the best!
Brad Humphrey has been involved in the construction industry for more than 30 years.
For more information visit https://CONC.me/bestfriend
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