Columns

Construction Industry Revolts Over New CSI Licensing Plan

lewisl@bnpmedia.com (Lindsay Lewis) — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

The construction industry is facing mounting backlash over a controversial licensing and software initiative tied to the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) and its widely used classification systems, including MasterFormat, UniFormat and OmniClass.

What Designers Need to Know: Specifying Polyiso Insulation Products in Commercial Roofing Projects

mpazera@pima.org (Marcin Pazera) — Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Polyisocyanurate (polyiso) roof insulation stands as one of the most widely used insulation products for low-slope commercial roofing systems.

Why Specifications Are Becoming the Next Critical Layer of Construction Compliance

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

The industry needs codes, specs, and plans operating in a single, connected workflow. When that coordination happens upstream, rework drops, resubmittals shrink, and the industry builds real capacity to close a housing gap that is only getting wider.

Architectural Considerations for Scaling and Expanding Retail Spaces

Fri, 15 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

For brands and companies of all sizes, there are several key factors to consider when undergoing a rapid retail expansion, according to the retail design experts at Lawrence Group.

Calling on Construction Firms to Preserve Critical Industry Expertise Before it’s Lost

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

The state of the future construction workforce will be determined by steps taken today. Its success will rely on involvement at all levels – from new grads entering a workforce with native AI experience to AI pros equipped with critical technical expertise to seasoned professionals with 30+ years of industry experience under their belt.

The First Indian Professional to Achieve ABAA's CABS Certification

lewisl@bnpmedia.com (Lindsay Lewis) — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

With roots in Maharashtra, India, and an advanced education from Vanderbilt University, Vicky brings a truly global perspective to the complex challenges of modern construction.

10 Tax Changes for Construction Under the Big, Beautiful Bill

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

The One Big, Beautiful Bill delivers sweeping, mostly taxpayer-friendly changes by locking in lower income tax rates, boosting standard deductions, and expanding deductions for tips, overtime, and auto loan interest while also raising the SALT cap and enhancing estate and business tax breaks.

How to Stay Ahead of Trump’s Copper Tariffs

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

With the Trump administration enacting a 50 percent tariff on steel and copper and a 25-35 percent tariff on lumber, construction businesses are rushing to figure out how they can stay ahead of costs, according to industry leaders at EPD.

2027 IECC: New Process, New Challenges

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

The recent process changes for the development of the 2027 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) are welcomed by some and disliked by others.

How the “Big, Beautiful Bill” Will Reshape the Bottom Line for Architects

lewisl@bnpmedia.com (Lindsay Lewis) — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In short, Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” was more than just campaign rhetoric. For architects and design firms, it provided real, tangible tax savings—and a rare policy nod to the profession’s economic importance.

Understanding WELL Building Standard Building Envelope Requirements for Sound Transmission

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Achieving WELL sound performance starts with thoughtful design and material selection. Here are the most effective architectural strategies.

Why Advocating for Safety and Building Codes Matters

Mon, 26 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Every May, the International Code Council’s Building Safety Month campaign raises awareness about building safety and the role of building codes in keeping us all safe.

How Tariffs Are Reshaping the Affordable Housing Landscape

Mon, 12 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Trump’s tariffs are fundamentally altering the affordable housing market, creating an environment marked by challenges, volatility, and the need for resilience.

As Construction Hiring Drops, Digital Tools Are Key to Making the Most of Your Workforce

Fri, 09 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Digital access to building codes and standards is emerging as a key solution, enabling construction professionals to work more efficiently and cohesively, even with leaner teams.

How Architectural Businesses Can Navigate Growth Amid Tariffs and Economic Uncertainty

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

With a strategic approach, businesses can navigate unpredictable waters and position themselves for growth in the coming months and years.

No Clear Vision Yet of Tariffs’ Impact U.S. Roofing Industry

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Faced with a lack of clarity regarding their scope and application, new tariffs have the potential to affect the cost and supply chain of essential materials like steel, aluminum, carbon black and various fasteners.

Recent Trends in the Steel Window and Door Industry

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

The steel window and door industry is experiencing dynamic shifts driven by evolving architectural preferences, advancements in technology, and changing consumer demands. This article explores the latest trends shaping the industry.

Implementing a Construction Quality Program

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

This paper will review key steps in developing and implementing a construction quality program, with its overarching strategy following the work of W. Edward Deming’s Plan, Do, Check, Act model.

The Impact of Tariffs on the Metal Construction Industry

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In a recent webinar hosted by METALCON Online, industry leaders came together to discuss the impacts of tariffs, supply chain disruptions and shifting market dynamics on the metal construction sector.

How Tariffs on Aluminum & Steel Will Impact Architects & Specifiers

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Just the talk of steel and aluminum tariffs have already manifested in missed project budgets and lost time for architects. With higher material costs on the horizon, architects are focusing on minimizing the risks of exceeding project budgets.

Next-Generation Plastics for High-Performance Roofing Membranes

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Thanks to breakthroughs in materials science, today's roofing membranes are designed for remarkable durability and performance.

Three Ways Technology Will Drive Young Talent to the Trades

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

The increased adoption of technology across the board has been enticing the next generation of workers to these occupations and checking the boxes of what they’re seeking in their careers.

What Metal Roofing Warranties Typically Offer and Cover

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

A new metal roofing installation is a good value, but still a significant investment, and a warranty improves the overall value and ownership experience in several ways.

Enter Now for Building Enclosure's 2025 Leadership Award

lewisl@bnpmedia.com (Lindsay Lewis) — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Building Enclosure wants to to acknowledge and celebrate architects, engineers, consultants and any building professionals who are leading the way in innovative design or spearheading sustainability initiatives in our industry.

How Tech-Focused L&D Programs Positively Impact Trades Projects

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

While occupations within construction, fire and life safety, electrical, and other domains will always require hands-on labor, digitalization has fundamentally changed how workers approach their tasks.

Enhancing Roof Coatings with Liquid Applied Membranes

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Latex binders are central to the effectiveness of LAMs for roof coatings, which can be formulated to enhance performance and allow for improved sustainability.

How 2025's Trends Will Shape the AEC Landscape

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Here are some key trends shaping the future of design and construction, focusing on improving productivity, sustainability, and client satisfaction.

Guidelines for Proper Waterproofing Specifications

john_paragon@ameritech.net (John D'Annunzio) — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

The proper development of specifications is essential due to the complexity of the waterproofing process that occurs with the integration of other building components and trades. It is the responsibility of the architect and/or designer to ensure that all divisions of waterproofing application are addressed.

How Building Materials Manufacturers Can Support Federal Efforts to Build the Next Generation of Skilled Workers

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

The President of Holcim Building Envelope writes about her belief that roofing manufacturers must actively shape the future workforce. Read her call to action for other manufacturers of building and roofing materials to join them on this important journey.

Demonstrating Carbon Reduction Strategies at Seattle’s Lake Union Piers

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

EMission Zero, an initiative launched by Seattle-based architecture firm Miller Hull, is designed as a replicable and scalable framework, demonstrating that coordinated action between owners, contractors, and designers can drastically reduce embodied carbon emissions in the built environment.