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content s CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION — CALGARY REGION represents professionals in the housing industry. CHBA — Calgary Region has been in existence for over 60 years and is a network of professionals that manages industry issues to provide value to our members. 100-7326 10 St. N.E., Calgary, AB, T2E 8W1 Tel: 403.235.1911; Fax: 403.248.1272 E-mail: info@chbacalgary.com Website: www.chbacalgary.com Donna K. Moore | Chief Executive Officer donna@chbacalgary.com Val Veldhuyzen | Director, Finance and Administration val@chbacalgary.com Amie Blanchette | Director, Government Affairs amie@chbacalgary.com David Bears | Director, Programs david@chbacalgary.com Kathy McCormick | Director, Communications kathy@chbacalgary.com Habiba Gulnaz-Khalid | Accounting Coordinator habiba@chbacalgary.com Kelsey Williams | Event Coordinator kelsey@chbacalgary.com Alix Wallace | Communications Assistant alix@chbacalgary.com Laura Wong | Administrative Assistant laura@chbacalgary.com Laura Feszczyn | Receptionist info@chbacalgary.com
Published by Source Media Group Corp. 207, 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 0J9. Tel 403.532.3101, Toll free 1.888.932.3101 Fax 403.532.3109 email: info@sourcemediagroup.ca web: www.sourcemediagroup.ca
SPRING 2012 • VOLUME 19 • ISSUE 2
A SSOCIATION INFORMATION 7 Message from the President, CHBA — Calgary Region 9 Message from the President, CHBA — Alberta 11 How do all Calgarians benefit from our Industry? 16 Events 17 Members
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A SSOCIATION E VENTS 12 President’s Charity Golf Tournament 13 Good sports 15 Thank You 18 In memorium COVER FE ATURE: SAM COVER AGE 19 The customers have spoken 20 You’ve come a long way, SAM 22 Grand SAM winners: A new king is crowned 24 SAM Winners’ list 26 Thank you sponsors
Cover photography by Don Molyneaux
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INTERNATIONAL NEWS 27 The New American Home INDUSTRY NEWS 28 Zero lot line variances 30 What’s in a name? 31 Playing it safe 32 The future looks brighter, and cheaper too
Associate Publisher | Jim Zang Art Director | Jean Faye Rodriguez Graphic DesignerS | Dave Macaulay, Megan Sereda Production Co-ordinator | Christy Price Accounting | Donna Roberts Advertising Sales | Lynn Leong CHBACalgary@sourcemediagroup.ca Copyright 2012 by Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the expresssed written persmission of the publishers. Source Media Group agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion. Profile is published quarterly per annum and is distributed to every member of the Canadian Home Builers’ Association — Calgary Region.
We’d love to hear from you… Letters to the editor, article suggestions, columns, topics and opinions are all welcome and encouraged! Please nail us a notice, saw us a yarn, measure us a metre of your thoughts. We’ll print the best ones in the next issue. Contact Kathy McCormick, Director, Communications at 403.730.4255 or kathy@chbacalgary.com
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Source Media Group Corp., 207 - 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 0J9. Publication Agreement # 41072011 profile
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President ’s message | association information
By Carol Oxtoby President, Canadian Home Buiders’ Association — Calgary Region
Economy moving in right direction National experts ‘cautiously optimistic’ about 2012
Donna Moore and I recently attended the national CHBA conference in Mont Tremblant, Quebec, and the messages from the variety of speakers was as varied as the economic conditions around the world. The overlying theme from these experts, however, was one of cautious optimism. • From Peter Anderson, CHBA economist, the theme was from Bob Dylan’s famous refrain, “The times, they are a-changin’;” • From Peter Norman, economic consultant with the Altus Group, we heard, “an air of calmness, but we are not completely out of the woods yet;” • And from Greg Klump, chief economist, Canadian Real Estate Association, the words were, “the more things change, the more they stay the same.” That set the stage for some interesting and informative presentations, yet all agreed that the mix of economic indicators point to a reliable economy for 2012 and 2013. The good news is that we are not going to experience what we have over the past few years. We are moving in the right direction. Risks, as we have become all too familiar with, are there, however. They include rising costs of land and onerous development charges, a spike in mortgage rates, slower oil production, labour market shortages, rising prices for building materials, fiscal tightening, and the never-ending European financial crisis. Ron Olson, our newly-elected national president, and Deep Shergill (president of
Prominent Homes in Calgary), first vicepresident of CHBA, have key issues they will be focusing on over the next year. These include lobbying the federal government about addressing infrastructure deficits; onerous development-related levies, fees and other taxes that compromise housing affordability; and adjusting GST thresholds of the new home buyer rebate. Congratulations to all our members who were successful in winning national SAM awards and industry achievement and leadership awards. • Watermark Development LP won the SAM Marketing Excellence Award. The award goes to a member whose single project combines the best overall achievement in marketing. Watermark at Bearspaw was a finalist in five categories, winning one other award as well. • Marty Hope, formerly of the Calgary
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Herald, won the prestigious Maple Leaf Award – the highest honour given out to a non-builder member who is deemed to have made an outstanding contribution at the national level. • Rick Gratton, senior development manager with Brookfield Homes, member of the Alberta housing and technical committee at CHBA — Alberta and on their board, won the William M. McCance Award for excellence in the technical area. • We at CHBA — Calgary Region were honored as well. The Calgary Home Builders Foundation won the Community Service Award for YWCA Mary Dover House — an award that is given out to the local association that contributes to the betterment of the way of life of people in their community. And, of course, our very own prestigious SAM Awards were held on April 14 — all highlighted in this issue of Profile. Taking home the “hardware” is indeed special recognition by our peer group. To all the winners and to everyone who was a finalist – congratulations!!! I wish everyone a wonderful spring and continued success in your corporate and personal journey.
The good news is that we are not going to experience what we have over the past few years.
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CHBA — alberta | association information
By Sandra Young
President, Canadian Home Builders’ Association — Alberta
Happy Anniversary! BUILD Conference Celebrates 50 Years
The first quarter of 2012 seems to be positive for many CHBA — Alberta members and the Association itself. We’ve been working diligently on expanding strategic partnerships; we’ve enjoyed a low-rise housing tour to Austin, Texas; and we continue to work on many issues with the provincial government.
As Alberta’s economy slowly recovers, it is important to remain engaged and ahead of the curve on issues such as mandatory new home warranty and the Municipal Government Act review while working in concert with the CHBA locals. CHBA — Alberta has recently launched a regular monthly newsletter, with plenty of information on Association activity and upcoming events. If you are not already receiving the newsletter and would like to subscribe, please email us at info@ chbaalberta.ca. One of the highlights of this year for CHBA — Alberta will be our annual BUILD conference at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, September 20 - 23. This year is very special as it will mark the 50th anniversary of our provincial Association and we are excited to be celebrating this milestone at BUILD 2012. Our Association and members have a long and proud history built on a strong foundation. This is our opportunity to celebrate and learn from those who have come before us, and make plans for the future together.
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As always, an integral part of BUILD is the Alberta Awards of Excellence in Housing where we honour the top builder and renovator members from across the province for their innovative and creative designs. Last year we saw a record number of entries and we hope we will break the record again this year. At the conference we will also recognize some of the exceptional volunteers within our industry at the Industry Leader Awards presentation, pay tribute to our association president and welcome our new president. As always, there will be a number of activities, sessions and social events. If I haven’t convinced you yet to be there, here are a few more reasons to attend: • Opportunity to network with the industry leaders at a secluded mountain resort surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in Alberta; • Receive the latest forecasts from industry experts as well as shape your Association by participating in the Annual General Meeting; • Learn about new building products, materials, services and technologies at the trade show; • Expand your professional horizon by attending workshops and keynote presentations; • Have fun at a fabulous costume party, golf at one of Canada’s top courses and enjoy gourmet cuisine at a 4-star resort. Online registration began in April at www. chbaalberta.ca. I anticipate a sold-out event and I hope you will join us there!
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CHBA — C algary Region | association information
By Amie Blanchette
Director, Government Affairs, CHBA — Calgary Region
How do all Calgarians benefit from our Industry? Let’s start with some big numbers. Did you know the residential construction industry was responsible for approximately 36,400 jobs in new construction, renovation and related fields last year alone? That makes us one of the largest employers within the Calgary region. Those jobs equate to about $2.2 billion dollars in wages which then further benefits the local economy through increased consumer spending. What about the new communities themselves? What benefits do they provide? One of the most important things new development provides is ‘choice’. A City of Calgary report, “Calgary & Region Social Outlook 2010-2015”, talks about new communities and their continuing popularity from 2009-2010 even as population growth in the city slowed overall. “While the population in most of the rest of the city declined by 8,489 people, in the developing communities it grew by 14,374. The developing communities thus accounted for 237 per cent of Calgary’s population growth between 2009 and 2010, accommodating not only new growth, but also residents from more established areas who moved to the developing communities. As a result, the share of the city’s population living in the developing communities continued to rise, increasing from 20.2 per cent to 21.5 per cent.” That’s a pretty clear indication that an increasing number of Calgarians have found a lifestyle or housing choice
they prefer in a new community. As the report stated, that encompasses both new residents and those who moved from other neighbourhoods. Without that choice available, would they have stayed in Calgary? As Calgary Economic Development looks to woo even more people and businesses to Calgary, the fact that those choices exist is a huge selling feature. According to CED: “Quality of life is easy to find in Calgary. Whether you’re looking for a great suburban neighbourhood to raise a family or want to live the urbanist life in the heart of the city, Calgary has award-winning communities and vibrant spaces…Calgary has both of these lifestyles in its communities, and everything in between.” From a recent City of Edmonton report,
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“Costs and Revenues for New Areas”, we find some very specific benefits that new communities provide. “The current form of new residential neighbourhood development leads to lower housing prices and more diverse choice in housing. This in turn makes the city more able to maintain and attract a skilled and talented work force. Together with an appropriate supply/expansion of jobs, this creates a double dividend situation in which individuals both reside (paying taxes and spending income) and work (contributing to commercial/industrial taxes and creation of wealth).” The factors mentioned above play a large role when employers are looking to relocate their offices or expand their current operations. Sometimes it can be easy to get sidetracked by the problems that ‘growth’ in all its forms (economic, population, size) can present but the solution isn’t to end all new development. The benefits new growth provides are simply too great to ignore. Over 21 per cent of Calgarians call our brand new communities home. New neighbourhoods, filled with homes built by CHBA-Calgary Region members, will attract many more new citizens hoping to follow in those same footsteps. As a result, our economy will only become stronger, our population more diverse and our city better. That certainly benefits us all.
…an increasing number of Calgarians have found a lifestyle or housing choice they prefer in a new community.
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Presidents’ Charity Golf Tournament All proceeds will go to current project: Easter Seals Camp Horizon For more information visit www.chbfoundation.com
Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club
SPONSORSHIP SELECTION Platinum Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Registration Gift Sponsor 1 Remaining
Thursday, August 23, 2012 7:45 a.m. Shot Gun
New
Wine Sponsor
Breakfast Sponsor
1 Remaining
Pres. Hole Sponsor
1 Remaining
FRIENDS OF THE FOUNDATION
to ensure recognition in the programme, please have the donated item at CHBF by June 29, 2102
YES! I’d like to donate Cash $
Live/Silent Auction Item Item:
Value: $ Registration(s) @ $350.00 each = $
Golfer Registration Name
Company
GST not applicable
Email Address
Format: T or P
H/C
New this year: Choose between two scoring formats. Texas Scramble (T) or Play Your Own Ball (P) Are these golfers playing together?
Yes
No
EVENT CONTACT INFORMATION Company:
Event Contact:
Email:
Phone:
Fax:
Registration Deadline: April 27, 2012 or when full CALGARY HOME BUILDERS FOUNDATION 100, 7326 10 STREET NE CALGARY, AB T2E 8W1 P: 403.235.1911 F: 403.248.1272 E: info@chbfoundation.com www.chbfoundation.com
Sponsor Details Recognition
Platinum $10,000
Registration Gift $7,500
Gold $5,000
Silver $2,500
1 remaining
Preferred starting hole
•
Verbal acknowledgement at event
•
Breakfast $2,500
Wine $2,500
1 remaining
1 remaining
Presidential Hole $1,500
Friends of CHBF
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Colour logo on registration gift Colour logo in video golf analysis Colour logo in e-news & profile
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Colour logo on CHBF website
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Colour logo in event programme
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Post event thank you ad
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Golf Spots Complimentary golf spots: 8 Complimentary golf spots: 4 Complimentary golf spots: 2 Complimentary golf spots: 1
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association Events
By Kelsey Williams
Event Coordinator, CHBA — Calgary Region
Good sports CHBA – CALGARY REGION members ‘get their game on’ Our members know how to have fun, no matter what the venue. A couple of highlights this spring were the Bowling fun night at the Chinook Bowladrome on February 25th and the Curling Bonspiel
Travel Calgary Stampede Winners
Best Bowl Female
on March 17th at Acadia Recreation Complex. Twelve teams took part in the bowling fun night, thanks to sponsors Ply Gem and Alberta Hardwood Flooring, while eight teams took to the ice for the fun ‘spiel that was sponsored by Key Concrete Products.
Best B Male owl
Best Costume Morrison Homes
Thank you sponsors!
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Best Low Bowl
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association NEWS CHBA — Calgary Region
Thank you To all our 65th Anniversary Sponsors Many thanks to our 65th Anniversary sponsors who allowed CHBA — Calgary Region to continue to provide value to our members throughout the year celebrating this milestone as an association representing the residential construction industry. The anniversary year was extremely successful with events that included a special series of educational seminars that were the direct result of the support of Brookfield Homes, Homes by
Avi, Keystone Excavating, NuVista Homes, Prophit Management, and Shane Homes. Their contribution supports the important
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on-going work of CHBA — Calgary Region and ultimately contributes significantly to the health and vitality of the industry.
Thank you sponsors!
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Events C ALENDAR
By Kelsey Williams Event Coordinator, CHBA — Calgary Region
MAY
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Dinner Meeting: Student House Awards, Coast Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre Speaker - Hayley Wickenheiser Rock Your Sales Rally 9 a.m. to noon. University Theatre, U of C
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Builder Breakfast Glenmore Inn
TO JUNE 2 Fairmont Golf Classic, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Fairmont, BC
JUNE Annual General Meeting & Dinner Meeting: Volunteer Awards & Presidential Tribute
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Builder Breakfast Glenmore Inn
AUGUST
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CHBF Presidents’ Charity Golf Tournament, Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club
SEPTEMBER Meeting, TBA Dinner Coast Plaza Hotel
For more information visit www.chbacalgary.com Subject to change
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members | association NEWS NEW MEMBERS n February 2012 Blue Lake Landscaping & Contracting REP: Fabi Saghie Interior and Exterior Home Renovator
City Carpets (2006) Ltd. REP: Nashtar Giu Flooring
Kruger Industries Inc.
REP: Steve Lovering Supply & Sales of stone and grass products
Stone Source International
REP: Danny Hao Wholesale Tile Importer and Distributor
Wallace & Associates Inc.
REP: Vaughan Wallace Complete Home Interior Renovations
n March 2012 Attainable Homes Calgary Corporation REP: Jamie Findlay Not for Profit Homeownership Program
Blanket Home Warranty Ltd. REP: Jason Yarmuch New Home Warranty Provider
Blue Rock Builders Ltd.
REP: Rachael Roulston Commercial, Multi-Family & Single-Family Builder
Century Carpet One REP: Dale Soloski Flooring
Data 4-Integrated Systems Inc.
REP: Craig Morrill Low Voltage Wiring/ Home Automation
Goodman Company Canada REP: Quin Randolf HVAC Manufacturer
Jamieson’s Innovations Inc.
REP: Dan Jamieson Marketing and Selling “Gastov” Products
Lakeview Floors Ltd.
REP: Brad Thompson Flooring Retailer & Installer
Ledgestone Custom Homes Ltd. REP: Mike Itani Home Builder
CANCELLED MEMBERS n February 2012 ARFC Bancorp Inc. Sandstone Associates
n March 2012
Catuso Inc. Penta Protective Coatings Ltd. profile
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association news | members
In memorium Jon Lawrence Stevens
It is with sadness that we announce the death of Jon Lawrence Stevens, who passed away in Picture Butte, where he lived, on March 14th at the age of 71 years. Jon was a member of the CHBA — Calgary Region and served several terms on the board of directors from 1984 to 1989. “Jon and his wife Shirley were fixtures at association events and activities — always lending a hand promoting the best in volunteerism,” says Donna Moore, CEO of CHBA — Calgary Region. “On behalf of the board of directors I would like to express my sincere sympathy to the family and,
in particular, to his son Dennis, who is a member of our association and with Stanley Black & Decker Hardware, Calgary.” Born in Gimli, Manitoba, Jon worked for many years in various capacities, including senior managerial and supervisory positions with the Bank of Nova Scotia. He retired in 2000 with 41 years of service, and then went on to serve as mayor of Picture Butte for two terms. He was also involved with
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Jon Lawrence Stevens, 1941-2012
other organizations and associations, and was awarded with the Murray/Kane Achievement Award by the Picture Butte & District Chamber of Commerce for his volunteer work. He is survived by three sons: Vincent (Alison), John (Kim) and Dennis (Heather), as well as five grandchildren, a brother and a sister. Funeral services were held March 17th.
SAM AWARDS
The customers have spoken In any business where you have something to sell, it’s all about the customers. And recognizing those customers goes a long way to creating success.
Cedarglen Homes
Photography by Don Molyneaux
That’s why the awards that are the results of
Home Builders Institute. “Winning these
detailed surveys sent out directly to customers
awards says a great deal about the quality of
are the most highly coveted by the builders.
customer service each of these companies
The awards reflect the customers’ choice. “We are proud to have three of our builder
provides to their consumers.” Based on this customer feedback, produc-
members, win the J.D. Power & Associates
tion and non-production home builders that
Builder of Excellence award and four of our
achieve a score in the top 20 per cent in their
members win the PHBI New Home Buyers’
respective markets were recognized as a J.D.
Choice Builders of Excellence Award” says
Power Builder of Excellence and PHBI New
John Kozole, CEO of The Alberta New Home
Home Buyers’ Choice Builder of Excellence at
Warranty Program and CEO of Professional
the recent SAM Awards Gala.
Mattamy Homes Calgary Ltd.
The 2012 J.D. Power Builders of Excellence for Production Builders in Calgary are: • Cedarglen Homes • Mattamy Homes Calgary Ltd. • Morrison Homes (Calgary) The J.D. Power Builders of Excellence Award showcases single-family builders who turned over 50 or more homes between July 2010 and October 2011. Surveys were collected from August 2011 through to December 2011.
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Morrison Homes Calgary
The 2012 PHBI New Home Buyers’ Choice Builders of Excellence for Non-Production Builders in Calgary are: • Crystal Creek Homes Inc. • Kingsmith Homes • Loreck Homes Ltd. • Truman Homes 1995 Inc. The New-Home Buyers’ Choice Award™ showcases single-family builders who turned over less than 50 homes between July 2010 and October 2011. Surveys were collected from August 2011 through to December 2011.
COVER FEATURE: SAM AWARDS
By Kathy McCormick
Director, Communications, CHBA — Calgary Region
You’ve come a long Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region It’s 1986 and you’re sitting in front of your brand-new portable TV (it’s the latest and greatest thing) watching the dysfunctional dynamics of Dynasty or the equally-maladjusted friends on Cheers in the house that cost you $24,897*. It is right after Montreal defeated the Calgary Flames in the Stanley Cup finals, so you’re not in the greatest of moods. Never mind. The first SAM Award winners will soon be announced, and your house is entered. Life is good. Approximately 100 people were at that first SAM award presentation that was simply part of the 1986 President’s Ball — and the entrants to the SAM (Sales and Marketing) awards were products of the city’s annual Parade of Homes. That was 25 years ago and, my, how those awards have grown up. The 25th silver anniversary party was, indeed, a fitting tribute to the vibrant residential construction industry and the gala itself. There was sparkle; there was excitement; there were aerialists; there was wonderful entertainment; and most importantly, there were winners, both old and new, mounting the platform in front of 1,675 people to accept their SAM Award, the coveted silver goose. “Fabulous evening!” says Wendy Going, vice-chairman of the SAM Awards committee. “The competition was tough, the awards ceremony was exciting. Amazing performance by Underground Circus and Groove Academy. The record amount of entries for 2011 was a positive sign for our industry. Congratulations to all the award winners and finalists and a big thank you to CHBA — Calgary Region for making the 2011 SAM Awards Gala an evening to remember.” In a city where the quality of the residential construction industry is known throughout Canada and the industry is competitive, every company that entered and placed anywhere in the finalists’ categories is a winner. A special thank-you goes out to our generous SAM sponsors: without them, the event would not be the high-caliber, exciting extravaganza that it was – a fitting tribute to the SAM entrants. And thank-you to everyone who helped make this day an event to remember, from our SAM committee, headed up by chairman Shane Wenzel and vice-chairman Wendy Going, to the many volunteers and staff who spent countless hours ensuring every detail was fitting the majesty of the gala affair. You’ll find the winners listed here. For the complete list of winners and finalists, go to www.chbacalgary.com. *- The U.S. dollar amount of the average house southpofr othe f i lborder e in 201986. s p r i n g 2 0 1 2
COVER FEATURE: SAM AWARDS
way, SAM
Photography by Don Molyneaux and Angela Chard, Crystal Image Photography.
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feature: SAM AWARDS
Grand SAM winners: A He’s no stranger to thrones…he’s been king of the hill seven times here and an equal number of times in Edmonton. But Jay Westman hasn’t climbed up to the podium to accept a Calgary Grand SAM Award for Builder of the Year for Jayman MasterBUILT in Calgary since 1997. And it feels good, says the chairman and CEO of the company his father Al founded and named after Jay in 1980. “Whew! It’s been a long drought,” he said when accepting the award, unseating Morrison Homes which had been wearing the crown for 10 straight years. “It’s been almost like a mirage, where you see the goal, but when you get there, it’s gone,” Westman said later. “We have worked really hard this year, and it’s a great accomplishment of our team to be acknowledged by third-party judges.” The competitive environment and the quality of building in Calgary add even more substance to the win, he said. “It’s tough in a great business like ours to differentiate yourself enough to rise to the top. This is great for everyone.” Finalists, in order, were Baywest Homes, Albi Homes and Beattie Homes.
The Right Combination Bucci Developments has the perfect pairing of wisdom and enthusiasm — and it has led to the Vancouver-based company’s second Grand SAM Multi-Family Builder of the Year award. “Take the experience of the old and the energy of the young, and good things happen,” said Fred Bucci, whose company was one of the first to launch a new project after the recession. “Our sales team in Calgary is stellar, full of young people who are gung-ho. “People are following the Bucci brand and we understand the Calgary market, so we’re able to offer a product at the right price and the right size. We’re very happy to do
business in Calgary, and we’re here for the long haul.” Finalists, in order, were Streetside Development Corporation and Jayman Modus, a division of Jayman MasterBUILT.
From $300,000 to $3 million Canterra Custom Homes won a SAM award in 2008 for a new home in the $750,000 to $1 million category. The next year, it won in the $3-million+ category. This past SAM competition, it took the new home award for the $310,000 to $349,999 category. And that, in turn, helped the small-volume builder take the Builder of Merit award for the first time. “A year ago we branched out with a brand we call Ribero Homes. It’s where we will continue to focus our energy,” says Jordan Giustini, president of the company. “We’re able to take the best in building and quality from our custom homes and build them in a production-type mode to allow us to sell them less expensively, and we are expecting to experience growth. “The wide spectrum of homes we build now speaks to our versatility.” Finalists, in order, were: Douglas Homes, Veranda Estates Homes, Ashton Custom Homes; and Lupi Construction.
Feathering the Nest Ultimate Renovations has added another award to its gaggle, stepping up to the podium for the eighth time as Renovator of the Year. PHI Systems Inc. has started its bird collection this year, building its nest with a Partner of the Year Award.
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Jayman MasterBUILT
Bucci Developments Ltd.
Feature: SAM AWARDS
new king is crowned GRAND SAM WINNERS Builder of the Year: Jayman MasterBUILT (Baywest Homes Ltd.; Albi Homes Ltd.; Beattie Homes Ltd.)
Multi-Family Builder of the Year: Bucci Developments Ltd. (Streetside Development Corporation; Jayman Modus, a division of Jayman MasterBUILT)
Builder of Merit: Canterra Custom Homes (Douglas Homes Ltd.; Veranda Estates Homes Ltd.; Ashton Custom Homes; Lupi Construction Ltd.)
Renovator of the Year: Ultimate Renovations (Newcastle Homes; Albi Renova Ltd.; Astoria Renovations, a division of Astoria Canterra Custom Homes
Homes Ltd.; The Remodelers Ltd.)
Partner of the Year: PHI Systems Inc. (Divine Hardwood Flooring Ltd.; Kern Industries; Lux Windows and Glass; Timber Tech Truss Inc.)
(parenthesis indicates finalists in order of finish)
Photography by Angela Chard, Crystal Image Photography profile
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feature: SAM AWARDS
ADVERTISING & MARKETING AWARDS
DEVELOPER AWARDS
Best Billboard (Indoor/Outdoor) Sponsored by Alberta Engineering Limited HOPEWELL RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITIES LP Mahogany Bikini Billboard
Best Print Ad Sponsored by Stonetile (Canada) Ltd. DIVINE HARDWOOD FLOORING LTD. Divine Hardwood
Best Brochure Sponsored by Baywest Homes Ltd. WATERMARK DEVELOPMENTS LP Watermark at Bearspaw
Best Audio Media Sponsored by Superior Cabinets HOPEWELL RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITIES LP Mahogany Canoe Audio Media
Best Direct Mail Piece Sponsored by Walton Development and Management LP ALBI HOMES LTD. Albi Customer Appreciation Invitation
Best Website Sponsored by Metro News SUPERIOR CABINETS Superior Cabinets Website
Best Moving Media Sponsored by Rockford Developments Inc. MORRISON HOMES Morrison 50th Year Video
Janine Coughlin Marketing Campaign of the Year Sponsored by Consumer Strategies Group Inc. WATERMARK DEVELOPMENTS LP Watermark at Bearspaw
MULTI-FAMILY HOME AWARDS
Best Innovative Idea/Product Sponsored by Shane Homes Ltd. KAROLEENA INC. Karoleena Cabin
Best Town Home – up to $274,999 Sponsored by Bucci Developments Ltd. JAYMAN MODUS, A DIVISION OF JAYMAN MASTERBUILT Chesapeake in Auburn Bay, Private
MULTI-FAMILY COMMUNITY AWARDS
Best Town Homes - $275,000 and over Sponsored by Classic Kitchens & Cabinets Ltd. HOMES BY AVI (URBAN) INC., A DIVISION OF HOMES BY AVI (CALGARY) INC. The Yale at Victoria Cross, 132 Victoria Cross Blvd. SW, Calgary
MULTI-FAMILY DESIGN AWARDS Best New Design – up to 799 sq. ft. Sponsored by All Weather Windows Ltd. BUCCI DEVELOPMENTS LTD A Plan, 707/721 4 St NE, Calgary Best New Design – 800 to 1,199 sq. ft. Sponsored by Mattamy Homes Calgary Limited STREETSIDE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION St. John’s Tenth St. – C21, 1110 3rd Ave NW, Calgary Best New Design – 1,200 to 1,499 sq. ft. Sponsored by All Weather Windows Ltd. TODAY’S COMMUNITIES, A DIVISION OF UNITY BUILDERS GROUP INC. 2 Bedroom Den, 35 Aspenmont Heights SW, Calgary Best New Design – 1,500 sq. ft. and over Sponsored by Renfrew Insurance Ltd. STATESMAN GROUP OF COMPANIES LTD. Varsity Shiraz, 780 Varsity Estates Dr. NW, Calgary
New Community of the Year Sponsored by Shane Homes Ltd. CANADA LANDS COMPANY Currie Barracks, Calgary Community of the Year – City of Calgary Sponsored by Homes by Avi (Calgary) Inc. CANADA LANDS COMPANY Currie Barracks, Calgary
INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Best Multi-Family Community Sponsored by Timber Tech Truss Inc. NIKLAS GROUP Casel on 17th, Richmond Knob Hill, Calgary
Show Home Parade of the Year Sponsored by Sabal Homes LP HOPEWELL RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITIES LP Hopewell Mahogany Move-Up Show Home Parade
Best Villa / Duplex – up to $324,999 Sponsored by Divine Hardwood Flooring Ltd. SHANE HOMES LTD. The Galea, 1100 Kings Heights Road SE, Airdrie
Community of the Year – Calgary Region Sponsored by Wenzel Developments, a division of Shane Homes Ltd. DUNDEE DEVELOPMENTS Montrose, High River
Best Villa / Duplex - $325,000 and over Sponsored by I-XL Masonry Supplies Ltd. AUGUSTA FINE HOMES, A DIVISION OF NUVISTA HOMES LTD. The Wilson II – Elmont Green, 33 Elmont View SW, Calgary Best Apartment-Style Condo Sponsored by NORR Architects Planners NIKLAS GROUP Casel on 17th, 305 2505 17 Avenue SW, Calgary Niklas Group
Shane Homes
SALES & INFORMATION CENTRE AWARDS
PARTNER AWARDS
ATTACHED Best Sales & Information Centre Sponsored by Astoria Homes Ltd. BAYWEST HOMES LTD. 5 Mahogany Manor SE, Calgary
Supplier & Installer of Products Sponsored by Shane Homes Ltd. PHI SYSTEMS INC. Supplier of Products KERN INDUSTRIES CALGARY LTD.
DETACHED Best Sales & Information Centre Sponsored by BFL Canada Insurance Inc. REMINGTON DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION 350 Quarry Park Blvd SE, Calgary
Supplier of Service Sponsored by AAA Doors Ltd. BRAVURA INC.
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Feature: SAM AWARDS
NEW HOME AWARDS Best New Home - $850,000-$999,999 Sponsored by The Sterling Group VERANDA ESTATE HOMES LTD. Wexford Custom Home, 77 Wexford Cres SW, Calgary
Best New Home – $200,000-$229,999 Sponsored by Gienow Windows & Doors Inc. CALBRIDGE 2010 LTD. The Aden, 149 Fireside Blvd, Cochrane
Best New Home – $460,000-$534,999 Sponsored by Gienow Windows & Doors Inc. MORRISON HOMES Private Residence, Private Best New Home – $535,000-$599,999 Sponsored by The Sterling Group BAYWEST HOMES LTD. Nevada II Showhome in Westland Estates, 8129 9th Ave SW, Calgary
Best New Home – $230,000-$269,999 Sponsored by The Sterling Group DOUGLAS HOMES LTD. Mykanos, 157 Muirfield Blvd, Lyalta
Best New Home – $600,000-$699,999 Sponsored by Albi Homes Ltd. ASHTON CUSTOM HOMES The Castello, 32 Rock Cliff Grove NW, Calgary
Best New Home - $1,500,000-$2,999,999 Sponsored by Watermark Developments LP CALBRIDGE 2010 LTD. Custom Home at the Ranche at Heritage, 3 Ranche Dr., DeWinton
Best New Home – $270,000-$309,999 Sponsored by Classic Kitchens & Cabinets Ltd. JAYMAN MASTERBUILT The Allure Model, 23 Auburn Glen Way SE, Calgary
Best New Home – $700,000-$849,999 Sponsored by Legacy Kitchens Design Group Inc. CALBRIDGE 2010 LTD. The Doerksen Residence, The Ranche at Heritage Pointe, Private
Best New Home – up to $199,999 Sponsored by Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation BEATTIE HOMES LTD. Chesapeake, 42 Skyview Point Road NE, Calgary
Best New Home - $1,000,000-$1,499,999 Sponsored by United Drywall Ltd. CALBRIDGE 2010 LTD. The Pfeiffer Residence, Castle Keep, Private
Best New Home - $3,000,000 and over Sponsored by Albi Homes Ltd. CALBRIDGE 2010 LTD. The Milne Residence, Private
Best New Home – $310,000-$349,999 Sponsored by RBC Royal Bank CANTERRA CUSTOM HOMES LTD. Baroni, 633 Muirfield Cres, Lyalta Best New Home – $350,000-$399,999 Sponsored by Gienow Windows & Doors Inc. JAYMAN MASTERBUILT The Esteem Model, 64 Auburn Springs Blvd SE, Calgary Best New Home – $400,000-$459,999 Sponsored by Artistic Stairs Ltd. TRICO HOMES The Birchwood in Aspenshire, 95 Aspenshire Way SW, Calgary
CALBRIDGE 2010 Ltd. The Doerksen Residense
RENOVATOR AWARDS Best Home Renovation (with Addition) Sponsored by WALL2WALL Media Inc. NEWCASTLE HOMES Calgary West Renovation Best Home Renovation (without Addition) Sponsored by WesternOne Rentals & Sales COREFRONT CUSTOM RENOVATIONS Kingsland 1959 Bungalow Best Basement Renovation HOME COMPLETIONS INC. Bantle-Woo Residence Best Kitchen Renovation – up to $99,999 Sponsored by WALL2WALL Media Inc. ULTIMATE RENOVATIONS Bonavista
SALES ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Best Kitchen Renovation – $100,000 and over THE REMODELERS LTD. Patel Residence – Whispering Water Best Bathroom/Ensuite Renovation Sponsored by Allan Forrest Sales 1991 Ltd. for Delta Faucet ULTIMATE RENOVATIONS Heritage Best Renovator’s Choice Renovation Sponsored by Canyon Plumbing & Heating Ltd. NEWCASTLE HOMES Calgary West Renovati
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Rookie of the Year – Single Family Sponsored by Shane Homes Ltd. JAYMAN MASTERBUILT Katherine Bennett Rookie of the Year – Multi-Family Sponsored by Streetside Development Corporation STATESMAN GROUP OF COMPANIES LTD. Brian Skinner Community Sales Team of the Year – Single Family Sponsored by Landmark Homes (Calgary) Inc. MATTAMY HOMES CALGARY LIMITED Mark Verzl, Brydon Foote – Windsong Project Sales Team of the Year – Multi-Family Sponsored by Cardel Lifestyles TRICO HOMES Cindy Arevalo, Anna Crossley – Milano in Panorama
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feature: SAM AWARDS
Thank you sponsors!
EVENT SPONSORS
GRAND SAM SPONSORS
PL ATINUM SPONSORS
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international news
The New American Home Showcasing innovative construction technologies and best practices When you add it all up, not much has changed — not even the economy, although signs are a little more positive than they were at this time last year. That meant that more people attended the International Builders Show in Florida earlier this year. The National Association of Home Builders’ event attracted close to 55,000 builders, renovators and others involved in the home building industry. One of the feature events at the show is always The New American Home, constructed annually in conjunction with the NAHB to showcase innovative construction technologies and the latest building products. It is “a demonstration home that showcased ‘Builders’ Best Practices,’ concepts, materials, designs, and construction techniques that can be replicated – in whole or in part – in housing built in any place, in any price range,” says the NAHB. This year’s home, at 4,181-square-feet, is the smallest built in many years. Designed to appeal to empty-nesters, the home reached National Green Building Standard “Emerald” and featured many environmentally-sustainable features as well as new products, systems, design trends, construction techniques, and materials. Check the website www.tnah.com for more.
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industry news | cit y of c algary
By Vanessa Gash
Residential Plans Examiner, Building Regulations Division, City of Calgary
Zero lot line variances How close is too close for comfort when it comes to home building?
Zero lot line construction is the concept applied when constructing houses closer together than would normally be permitted under the Alberta Building Code (ABC). Areas zoned for zero lot line construction require both general approval of the method used for the area/subdivision and a specific variance request for each house being constructed. This construction practice places one house at the property line with eaves/soffit overhanging the neighbouring property and a 1.5 m maintenance easement to the wall of the next home. An encroachment agreement is required on each property. The alternative solution proposed must address fire protection of the exposing wall assemblies, protection of eaves/soffits, unprotected openings and penetrations. This construction type has been used in Calgary since 1998 and was first implemented after discussion/ coordination between builders and the City of Calgary. Since that time, the ABC 2006 and HIRF guidelines have been issued. The construction, originally developed based on best practices, has been subject to testing by the National Research Council (NRC) and the National Institute for Science and Technology
(NIST). Test findings from both agencies support the construction and indicate it provides a level of safety adequate to meet the intent of the ABC.
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Currently there are only a few areas and builders that have been approved with zero lot line products. Due to a noted increase in newer builders and new areas wishing to implement the concept, we thought it would be a good time to review the requirements. The City of Calgary requirements for accepting an alternative solution/variance for zero lot line construction are as follows: Builder/Product Approval — Builders requesting zero lot line construction must provide a written submission for approval. This includes required documentation of the proposed construction prior to applying for individual building permits. The proposal is evaluated based on template documents and supporting research studies from the NRC & NIST. Provided there are no deviations from the proposed construction, the documentation required on individual applications can be reduced. Variance Request – Each BP application must include a written variance request. The documentation required by ABC Div C, subsection 2.3.1 is available on the City of Calgary website or through the Safety Codes Council. The template includes: Date; owner/agent; code to be varied; reason for the variance; construction details
of the proposed variance including builder identification; supporting documentation; completed easement agreements; declaration of understanding; name and signature of the owner or agent. When a variance request is received with a permit application, a variance number is assigned and listed in the permit conditions. The variance details become part of the issued building permit and must be available on site at the time of inspection. As with all building permit documentation, this ensures that the SCO can verify construction has been completed and is in accordance with the approved drawings. Additionally, since location is so critical to fire protection, an RPR is required to be submitted at final inspection to ensure that the building has been properly located during construction. The written variance is prepared by the City of Calgary Building Regulations, registered with the Province and a copy is then provided back to the applicant. If you are considering building zero lot line products please ensure that you apply for the appropriate approvals. Application requests for alternative solutions are handled by Building Regulations, Technical & Legislative Services. They may be reached for questions or further information by calling 311.
The variance details become part of the issued building permit and must be available on site at the time of inspection. profile
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CMHC | industry news
By Anand Mishra
Senior Research Advisor, CMHC, Prairies & Territories
What’s in a name? Community/neighbourhood sustainable programs demystified Over the last decade, the number of community-level sustainable programs has grown. Here are three examples: LEED for Neighbourhood Development In 2010, the U.S. Green Building Council launched the LEED® for Neighbourhood Development (LEED®-ND) rating system to guide and assess sustainable community development projects. The rating system integrates the principles of smart growth, new urbanism and green building into neighbourhood design. LEED®-ND encourages environmental responsibility and sustainability and promotes neighbourhood designs that reduce vehicle miles travelled by focusing on the following components that encourage green developments: • Smart location and linkages; • Neighbourhood pattern and design; • Green infrastructure and buildings; • Innovation and design process; and • Regional priority credit. More than 20 Canadian projects have registered as international LEED®-ND ®
projects including Currie Barracks in Calgary. The Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) has developed Canadian equivalencies for LEED®-ND. These Canadian “Alternative Compliance Paths” are formally approved approaches that provide clarity and guidance for Canadian projects, addressing sections of the rating system that contain U.S.— specific standards or wording. They are available for download from the CaGBC website as “LEED 2009 ND with Canadian Alternative Compliance Paths”. Living Building Challenge The Living Building Challenge was launched in 2006 by the Cascadia Green Building Council and, since 2009, has been run by the International Living Future Institute. It provides a framework for the design and construction of buildings and neighbourhoods that represent advanced
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measures of sustainability. The Living Building Challenge covers four project types — Renovation, Landscapes, Infrastructure, Buildings, and Neighbourhood — ranging from portions of small buildings to neighbourhood developments. It is available in Canada through the Canada Green Building Council. Certification is obtained by submitting documentation of the project’s design, construction and performance to the Institute. One Planet Communities One Planet Living is a global initiative developed by BioRegional and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) International to address the challenge of finding a way in which all of the world’s people can live within the natural limits of our one planet. One Planet Living is based on 10 principles of sustainability: • Zero carbon; • Zero waste; • Sustainable transport; • Sustainable materials; • Local and sustainable food; • Sustainable water; • Land use and wildlife; • Culture and community; • Equity and local economy; and • Health and happiness. The One Planet Communities program uses this framework to create a network of model green neighbourhoods where people can dramatically reduce their ecological footprint while leading happy and healthy lives. The program places an equal emphasis on footprint reductions through green buildings/infrastructure and lifestyles/ behavior change.
PHBI  |  industry news
By Chris Hunter
C.E.T., Project Manager, Morrison Hershfield Limited
Playing it safe Have high intensity residential fires changed building envelope practices?
High intensity residential fires (HIRF) have had an impact on fire and building codes causing Alberta home builders to use different construction methods, and to utilize more in-depth material selection processes. From 2000 to 2007 there were 86 residential fires in Alberta, 65 of which were in occupied buildings. While HIRF-related situations account for less than one per cent of fires in Alberta, they are responsible for nearly 10 per cent of losses. Due to the number of fires and potential for losses (nearly $18,300,000), concerns were raised about current practices. In 2007, a working group was generated to make recommendations to the Alberta government. In 2009, many of these recommendations were developed and adopted in Alberta in hopes of reducing the effects of HIRF. These changes included modifications to the Alberta Building Code and the Alberta Fire Code, which are applicable to all home builders. Some of the recommendations that were accepted were: protected and unvented soffits; new
Photo courtesy of Qualistat
restrictions on unprotected openings and their locations; protection from adjacent buildings; and enhanced safety plans. HIRF have not changed how we address the building envelope, but have changed the materials we use to build, and forced emphasis on the quality control required to ensure longevity and durability of our buildings. The biggest changes that impact the building envelope are the sheathing/ cladding material selection and the path of roof venting. The builder must understand the moisture sensitivities of various materials and provide adequate moisture management and redundancies into these systems. Since the fire code requires the builder to protect adjacent structures, the builder must understand the materials available on the market that allow this to happen, and how these materials impact the performance of the building envelope. As well, roof venting, if not properly addressed, may lead to serious long-term durability problems and must be addressed on a case-by-case basis. The builder must understand the issues involved with cladding attachment, in light of the
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different sheathing materials. Various claddings have different requirements for fastening. Quality control programs are recommended to ensure all parties involved understand these requirements. The lateral resistance (shear) of sheathing is another important element to consider with these changes. As every region in Alberta has different concerns about lateral resistance, your choice will depend on where your build site is located. Lethbridge for example, has high exposure to wind pressure making it imperative to use a material that will have high lateral resistance, such as plywood or OSB. With this being said, the type of sheathing has little impact on the long side wall of a singlefamily detached dwelling. For the full presentation However, when please visit the archived unique conditions Builder Breakfast present presentations at www.phiba.com themselves, it is recommended to consult an engineer. Understanding the implications of material selection and quality control on sites is imperative for builders today. There needs to be a focus on quality control on site programs, as well as the introduction of redundancies in the envelope design (i.e. rainscreen systems, improved detailing, etc.). It is imperative that builders consider the properties of materials and their locations in the exterior wall from the building-code and the fire-code perspective.
industry news | Workers’ compensation board
By Paul Tamagi Account Manager/Customer Service, Workers’ Compensation Board Alberta, Calgary Office
The future looks brighter, and cheaper too Positive industry trends set the foundation to lower industry premiums It’s been hard work, but employers in the residential construction industry continue to improve their performance in the workers’ compensation system. Lost-time claim costs have decreased by over $800,000 dollars from 2009 to 2010 but have increased somewhat through 2011. Lost-time claim volume has decreased by 40 per cent from 2009 to 2011. So if things are looking up, why has the industry premium rate increased from $2.03 to $2.20 (per $100 in insurable earnings) in 2012? It is really a matter of timing. Premium rate setting Rates are set by forecasting the total fullfunded costs of claims occurring in a given rate year. Full-funding means the premiums collected on an annual basis will cover all current and future costs of claims occurring in the year the rates have been set. Fullfunding is a legislated component of the Workers’ Compensation Act to ensure today’s employers pay the full cost of today’s claims, therefore securing future benefits for injured workers. The total cost of industry claims over a five-year period (excluding a lag year) is used by WCB to establish a base rate for the rate group. For example, 2012 rates are based on industry claims costs from 2006 to 2010 but exclude 2011 (the lag year). This method provides rate-setting stability. All claims have an impact on rates but claims where an employee has lost time from work tend to have the most effect. The good news? These types of claims are all trending
down in the residential construction industry. If this continues, employers should start to see a reduction in the industry rate down the road, when higher claim cost years drop off the five-year rate setting window. What can you do to help reduce your premium rate?
Recognize the value of a Certificate of Recognition (COR) Prevention is key. A COR is issued by the Alberta government in conjunction with an accredited certifying partner who helps with the establishment of workplace health and safety standards. In 2010, COR holders in the residential construction industry enjoyed almost $600,000 in incentives through WCB’s Partnerships in Injury Reduction program. While only six per cent of employers in residential construction held a COR, they cover 47 per cent of the industry’s payroll. There is a great opportunity to expand the number of COR holders in the industry.
In the residential construction industry, lost-time claim costs have decreased by over $800,000 dollars from 2009 to 2010, but has increased somewhat through 2011. If costs stabilize, the industry premium rate should see a downward trend.
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Workers’ compensation board | industry news
Modified work works Employers can also positively affect premiums by providing meaningful and medically sound modified work for injured employees. Getting employees back to work safely and quickly keeps them engaged in the company and creates a win-win situation for all. Statistically, injured employees whose companies offer modified work programs recover faster, require less medical care, and are more satisfied with their care. These employees also tend to return to full duties sooner. In residential construction, the ratio of modified work performed to disabling injury claims reached 76 per cent in 2011. This means that three quarters of employees
temporarily disabled at the time of their injury returned to modified duties. Another indication of a positive trend towards rate reductions in the future. An effective strategy to stabilize costs is to aim for an 80 to 85 per cent For more information ratio of modified go to www.wcb.ab.ca/ work performed employers or discuss options with your to disabling injury account manager. claims in 2012. Employers can sign-up online to access account statistics. This service allows employers to analyze claims frequency and severity, and identify potential cost management opportunities.
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One of the most effective ways an employer can positively affect premiums is to provide meaningful and medically sound modified work for injured employees. In 2011 three quarters of employees temporarily disabled at the time of their injury returned to modified duties.
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| Advertising feature |
United Drywall Celebrating 50 years of ‘hanging board’ In 1962 three German immigrant brothers came to Calgary seeking to improve their lives, and improve them they did – as industry leaders on the cutting edge of the day’s home building technology. The Seidel brothers founded United Drywall Ltd., a company which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary of hanging board in Alberta, and now also in Saskatchewan. The brothers were fascinated with drywall in the day when lathe and plaster was the norm. “It (drywall) was new and innovative and they got into it,” explains today’s company president Colin Steele. The youngest Seidel brother, Klaus, had worked hard in the company and in 1975 was approached by his brother to take over the company. United Drywall has bucked the odds in the drywall business. “To reach 50 years in this industry is not easy to do. The ‘80s were tough,” says Colin. “We made it through and we still have employees from 30-plus years that still work here. We hold on to the values that Klaus instilled in us. “
The list is aptly called “Klaus’ Core Values.” It communicates 16 points, from being fair and consistent to being trustworthy, being positive, keeping promises and responsibilities, and to treat people the way you want to be treated. “That’s still the foundation of our company today,” says Colin. “It has worked for 50 years and no reason it won’t work for another.” United Drywall Ltd. remains a family-run business and is now in its second generation. Klaus’ son, Trevor, is a partner in the growing company with Colin, who is Klaus’ son-in-law. There are children in the wings showing interest in being part of the company’s future. In 1962 the Seidel brothers broke into the Calgary market offering a new and innovative product and the legacy continues.
“All you have to do is call us once, give two days notice and we will take care of everything from start to finish.”
Colin Steele at left and partner Trevor Seidel
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“We’re trying to bring into this business new and innovative ways of doing things,” says the president. “I get it. It’s drywall, how exciting can that be.” If you are a United Drywall customer, it’s likely the lack of excitement that makes this company the one to deal with. United’s goal is to come into the job without drawing a lot of attention. They want to insulate, drywall, tape, texture and prime the walls – leaving a clean, neat and seamless finish. “In our business,” says Colin, “the less people notice you, the better you tend to be doing.”
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Today the industry seeks and demands organization and scheduling stricter than ever. Builders and sub trades have to keep strict performance schedules. “We’re trying to perfect a system. Our trade has a lot of components to it. We’re different than everybody else that works on a residential home. We have all these steps that we have to organize and schedule,” says Colin. “All you have to do is call us once, give two days notice and we will take care of everything from start to finish. We organize all the steps and bring them together without losing time.” Well there wasn’t an app for that, but Colin says there is now. It was tailor-made by a United Drywall employee for its own use. Every supervisor uses an Apple iPad as an integral tool to the company’s work schedule. “Our service guys and supervisors carry them and we created the app. Everything is done immediately. It fits with today’s world. People don’t like to wait. They don’t like to wait for information or an answer, and definitely don’t want to wait for their drywall to get done.” n
| Advertising feature |
Builder’s Capital Celebrating a decade of helping Calgary grow When a financier with hammer and nail sense starts lending money for residential construction projects they should be an attractive option for builders looking for financing. Builder’s Capital is exactly that kind of lender. With 10 years of financing under its belt, one of its principals, President Sandy Loutitt, is a carpenter by trade. “Today we are looking at increasing Builder’s Capital’s profile,” he says. “We have been helping finance builders for 10 years with very little advertising,” adds senior underwriter Tracy Loutitt. At the fundamental level, Builder’s Capital is a very unique lending institution for construction companies. “The basic concept of Builder’s Capital is that it is a finance company that understands and caters to the needs of small and medium sized builders. Having an active construction company it became apparent that the
conventional financing structures didn’t really understand the business model, didn’t understand the needs of builders and wasn’t flexible enough to offer opportunity when it was there. This is mostly because the banks don’t know enough about what we were doing from a technical or business perspective,” said the president. “That’s fundamentally what makes Builder’s Capital different. We are a construction company that lends money versus a lender that tries to understand construction.” “We try to structure financing around what the builder is doing versus other lending companies who say ‘here is our box and you wedge yourself into it’.” Builder’s Capital is a specialized mortgage
We are a construction company that lends money versus a lender that tries to understand construction.
From left, Sandy Loutitt, President; Tracy Loutitt, Senior Underwriter, Office Manager, Nicole Côté and Chief Financial Officer John Strangway.
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lender that provides funds for residential construction projects. Builder’s Capital is typically helping finance projects from $500,000.00 to $5 million. “Some of our bigger builders are constructing up to 100 houses a year,” says Tracy Loutitt. “We may not finance all of it, but the builder finds working with us for a portion of their financing needs to be beneficial.” “The reason we can do that more effectively than our peer group, or the banks, is because we already know the construction business,” explains Sandy Loutitt. “I am a carpenter by trade and have been a builder for years. We’ve combined those attributes and all the things we wanted to see in a finance company and put them into Builder’s Capital.” The company’s expertise allows it to roll up its sleeves when a problem arises and help the client find solutions. CFO John Strangway adds, “Builder’s Capital is very flexible with its draw schedules. Being able to manage when you take the funds as opposed to having a schedule set down by the bank, allows the builder to tailor their draws and loan schedule to the needs of their project.” He says, “Usually the problem with a traditional draw schedule is that even though the sub- trades have done their work, the builder has not reached a classic thresh hold for calling for an advance like at lock up. In return, the builder can’t get an advance to pay the sub-trades,” says Strangway. “Also, when working on multiple projects the builder may not have enough resources of their own to fund all of their current projects at the various stages of completion so often something has to sit and wait until jobs move ahead to certain stages to be able to collect a draw and then pay the sub-trades.” “We talk to a builder and we tailor their financing to what they need. That’s our lending flexibility.” n
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| Advertising feature |
Bring your dream kitchen to life with Woodcraft Kitchen Cabinets Since 1998, Woodcraft Kitchen Cabinets has been providing Calgarians with gorgeous kitchens to, that stand the test of time. A trusted manufacturer of cabinets, vanities, wall units and china cabinets, Woodcraft Kitchen Cabinets products are geared to meet the needs of each individual customer. “We provide for all budgets and markets,” says Mahmood Arshad, of Woodcraft Kitchen Cabinets. Some of the large product selection is evident in their on-site, elegant-looking 5,500-square-foot showroom and design centre that features a multitude of options in finishing, styles and material selections. Woodcraft’s in-house designers work with customers to custom-design and produce functional and beautiful kitchens. Not only do they custom-design cabinets, they also manufacture, build and install their products in Calgarians’ homes. They are the ultimate destination for kitchen cabinets in Calgary. Rely on Woodcraft’s expert advice and service. Their products are built with quality workmanship and materials, and maintain value through a cost-efficient manufacturing process. Woodcraft controls every aspect of manufacturing out of the 45,000-square-foot State-of-the-Art production facility, located at 3651 – 23 Street N.E. A pool of staff combined with precision and knowledge of every aspect of cabinet configurations, ensures reliance and perfection to their in house standards, prior to a job leaving the Woodcraft facilities. Moreover, deficiencies identified on the job site by their inspection team are attended instantly, to provide complete satisfaction. As their customer, you are getting the best buck for your
“The ability to produce each and every component in our production facility really sets us apart.”
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money. “The ability to produce each and every component in our production facility really sets us apart,” Arshad says. “Quality assurance is one of the most important areas in the manufacturing process.” Woodcraft Kitchen Cabinets leads the pack with their innovative kitchen styles. One of the latest trends is an in-house design, Arshad says. “One of the contemporary designs we came up with is a combination of Shaker styles, and it has really taken the market.” When you see the cabinets, they speak for themselves. n
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