September 2023 Building Connections

Why Ring’s End?

Darien (Flagship Yard)

Lewisboro,

Wilton

Bethel

Your Monthly Newsletter

Building Connections is a monthly digital magazine produced and published by the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Fairfield County. Inside you will find the latest association news, legislative updates, upcoming events, and featured articles about the industry.

Contact Us: hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com www.buildfairfieldcounty.com @hbraffc

(203) 335-7008

Front Cover: Featuring Builder: Guiltec Development Supplier: Interstate + Lakeland Lumber

Innovative Options and Designs to Complement Your Home

Pella’s Impervia® windows and doors provide unmatched strength, energy efficiency and lasting durability with proven performance. There’s never a need for painting or refinishing because with our powder-coat finish, our windows and doors resist chipping, chalking and fading. Rot and corrosion-free to naturally resist water and bugs.

Complement your home with Pella’s proprietary, low maintenance fiberglass that offers a sleek and timeless style. Our windows and patio doors have been tested to withstand some of the harshest conditions, including extreme heat and sub-zero cold, damaging UV rays and seacoast environments.

For more information, please contact Sabina Mortillaro

631-219-9258 or smortillaro@pellactny.com

Mark Your Calendars - Golf Now 9.29!

Thank you to everyone who came out to our sold out September clambake! It was such a lovely evening, with good food and great company. Unfortunately, we were rained out for our September 18 golf tournament, however we are excited that we have a rescheduled date of September 29. I hope to see you all there! We are always looking for volunteers for this event, so if you can make it, please let me know.

On October 19, we will be having our first ever Casino Night. A portion of the profits will go to our next Circle of Care project, which is near and dear to our hearts. This should be a great event!

If you haven’t joined us for a meeting yet, or haven’t been in awhile, please join us and see what we’re all about! As a reminder, if you know someone who would benefit from becoming a member - we are currently running a special for new members - Join now and come to your first 3 meetings for free!

Be sure to keep our online membership directory in mind whenever you are looking for a business: www.buildfairfieldcounty.com/directory. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can do anything for you or your business: kerry@buildfairfieldcounty.com

Kind Regards,

Kerry Brunn Executive Officer

Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Fairfield County

“ The mission of the HBRA is to help promote, protect & improve the building industry in Fairfield County. Our association is dedicated to promoting, strengthening, and informing our local home building market and those who work within it to ensure that we areindependently and collectively - a viable economic engine of growth now and in the future. ”

Upcoming EventsRegister Today!

Thurs. Oct. 19: Casino Night with the HBRA

Rolling Hills Country Club, Wilton

Brand new event! Try your luck at the tables, and bring your highest bids for some great prizes at our Silent Auction!

Tues. Oct. 24: Building Science Training

Hotel Zero Degrees, Norwalk

Educational training - breakfast included!

Weds. Nov. 8: Seminar: "Go From A Job to CEO"

Northeast Building Supply, Bridgeport

Learn how to become the CEO of your own trades iiiiiibusiness!

Weds. Nov 8: GMM at Ed’s Garage Door, Norwalk

For more info & to register, visit buildfairfieldcounty.com/upcomingevents

2023 OFFICERS

Immediate Past President

Kim DiMatteo Cross Insurance

President: John Hertz Hertz Construction

Senior VP: Rob Michaud Michaud Group

VP: Brian Kurtz Interstate Lumber

Treasurer: Steven Roth Elevator Service

Secretary: Karen Bradbury Closet & Storage Concepts Chris Shea Domus Constructors, LLC

2023 DIRECTORS

George Pusser Cornerstone Contracting

Kevin Polcer Polcer Home, LLC

Lisa Heldwhite Breakwater Renovation & Design, LLC

Stephanie Rapp Stephanie Rapp Interiors, LLC.

Tori McBrien McBrien Interiors

LIFE DIRECTORS

Joanne Carroll JMC Resources

Jerry Effren

The Greyrock Companies

Gary Fanali City Carting

Peter Fusaro

Preferred Builders

Michael Palumbo

ERI Building & Design

Peter Gaboriault Bear Paw Builders

Terrence Beaty

William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty

Chris Steiner Steiner, Inc.

Anthony DeRosa DeRosa Builders

Membership Discounts & Deals

Through agreements with more than 20 national companies, NAHB offers exclusive discounts on a variety of products and services that can benefit your business, employees and family. Members save big when they take advantage of these offers.

Steps to Access NAHB Discounts:

Log in at www.nahb.org

Please Note: Your nahb.org login is separate from your buildfairfieldcounty.com login.

If you do not have an NAHB account, select “Register” on the right side of the screen.

You will need the PIN you received when you first joined the HBRA – find yours by logging in to your account at buildfairfieldcounty.com, or contact the HBRA office and we would be happy to let you know!

After you log in, go to www.nahb.org/NAHB-Community/Member-Benefits/Savings Click on “Learn More” under the discount you want to use and follow the instructions.

See the NAHB "Member Savings Program at a Glance" handout for a full list of available discounts!

Through the HBRA of Fairfield County’s partnership with NPP you can save on products for your business and employees. Membership is free.

Steps to Access NPP Discounts:

Visit www.mynpp.com/association/hbra-of-fairfieldcounty/

If you already have an account, select “Log In” at the top right to log in.

If you do not currently have an NPP account, enter your information on the form on the right and follow the website prompts to create an account. Click on the discount you would like to sign up for and follow the instructions.

See the NPP handout for a full list of available discounts!

For a full list of all benefits available to members, visit: buildfairfieldcounty.com/membership-benefits-discounts/

Building Science event hosted by HBRA of Fairfield

ABOUT JUSTIN WILSON :

Justin is a is a Principal Managing Partner of Construction Instruction. As the Operations Expert, he leads research initiatives and company operations. Justin works with national and regional builders on new construction of residential and commercials buildings and forensic investigations on building sites all over North America to find solutions to problems in the building processes that affect energy, comfort, and durability.

Justin works with leading building product manufacturers on new product development, testing, product refinements,installation, and maintenance guidelines. Thermal enclosure improvements, indoor air quality, occupant comfort, HVAC integration and design of homes are his primary industry interests. He also has a passion for affordable net-zero energy homes with advanced and durable thermal enclosures.

When: 10 AM - 12 PM

What: Topics covered include:

AUTHENTIC TO YOUR DREAM

Andersen ® A-Series windows and doors are based on the style of home you want. Whether it’s a stately Queen Anne, a bold Modernist design or anything in between, you can now create it with the best-performing, most energy-efficient products Andersen has ever offered. Don’t just imagine your dream home, build it with Andersen. “Andersen”

Andersen is proud to support the Home Builders and Remodelers Assn. of Fairfield County and its members.

PWB + Circle of Care

UPDATE

The PWB has been working with Circle of Care, Art from the Heart project for over a year. We have completed 2 room renovations for children who are undergoing cancer treatment.

We are required to raise the funds required to complete the project which is set at between $3,500 and $4,000 per room.

We are thrilled to announce that we received a very generous donation from Ridgefield Supply and East Haven Supply of $3,000.

PWB plans to renovate 2 rooms in 2024.

4 REASONS

WHY YOU SHOULD START YOUR NEW CONSTRUCTION OR HOME RENOVATION PROJECT AT...

A LIGHTING SHOWROOM

The excitement of a new construction or home renovation can be both overwhelming and exhilarating. One essential, yet often overlooked, element of home décor is lighting. Where you start your journey can have a lasting impact on your project's success. At CT Lighting Centers, we believe that the ideal starting point is at a dedicated lighting showroom before the construction begins. With two prominent showrooms in Southington and Hartford, CT, we bring you four compelling reasons to begin your home makeover with us.

LIGHTING SETS THE STAGE 1

Functional lighting is not just an afterthought in home décor; it's the foundational layer. By starting your journey in a lighting showroom, you can see the difference of properly placed functional recessed lighting on display. We encourage you to bring your new construction or renovation plans for functional lighting layout and design consultation before construction begins to understand how to set the stage for every room, ensuring it's lit in a manner that complements its purpose and design. Let us show you the difference in good, better or best with prices to fit any budget.

THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS 2

When you step into our showrooms, you enter a world of infinite lighting possibilities with thousands of fixtures on display. The range of styles, designs, and functionalities is boundless if we have the opportunity to consult with you before the project begins. As an example, if you have a nine-foot island, you might consider two large pendants or possibly three smaller ones. Sitting with a lighting consultant before finalizing your electrical plans allows you to see the possibilities prior to making decisions.

3

GET A TRUE PREVIEW

4

BEYOND LIGHTING

Choosing lighting from an online catalog or a big box store is vastly different from experiencing it firsthand in a dedicated showroom setting. Experience the actual size, brightness and finish of various lighting fixtures. This hands-on approach reduces the uncertainty and guesswork, ensuring that you're fully satisfied with your choices before they find a place in your home.

While our name emphasizes lighting, our showrooms in Southington and Hartford are so much more than just a lighting. We believe in home solutions, and lighting is just the beginning. Whether you're in search of decorative hardware, ceiling fans, lighting controls, Sonos audio, mirrors, accent furniture, table and floor lamps, and home décor we have a tremendous display that is always changing.

By initiating your project journey at CT Lighting Centers, you are assured of an enriched understanding, a broad spectrum of choices, budgetary control, and a tangible preview of the transformative power of lighting. Visit our showrooms in Southington or Hartford and see the difference for yourself.

Featured Chandelier: Hudson Valley BKO801-AGB

Lighting is the cornerstone of any new construction or renovation project, it should be so much more than a decorative afterthought. The way a room is lit can transform its ambiance, highlight its features, and create a desired mood.

MEMBER EVENTS

Annual HBRA Clambake

RECAP

A sold-out crowd joined the HBRA on September 6th for our annual Clambake on the Water at a new venue, the beautiful Boca Oyster Bar designed by HBRA member Emilia Ferri!

Attendees enjoyed a surf & turf dinner with full lobster and steak, sponsored by Andersen Corp., Crown Point Cabinetry, and Marvin, and delicious drinks sponsored by All Hardwood Floors.

Thank you also to our event sponsors Pella, Acadia Insurance, Cisco Heating & Cooling Pros, Productivity Institute, EDOS Manufacturers Reps, and Innerspace Electronics Inc.

This event would not have been possible without the support of all our event sponsors, our VIP Partners, and our wonderful members who make every event fun, meaningful, and productive.

Thank you to all who came!

Casino Night

Casino Night

10.19.23 | 6:30pm-10pm

10.19.23 | 6:30pm-10pm

Rolling Hills Country Club

Rolling Hills Country Club

333 Hurlbutt Street, Wilton CT

333 Hurlbutt Street, Wilton CT

You are invited to join the HBRA for our first annual Casino Night. Try your luck at the tables, and bring your highest bidsfor some great prizes at our Silent Auction!

You are invited to join the HBRA for our first annual Casino Night. Try your luck at the tables, and bring your highest bidsfor some great prizes at our Silent Auction!

All attendees will receive $200 of “funny money” to use at gaming tables including Blackjack, Roulette, Craps and Poker. Winners will receive a raffle ticket for some great prize items!

All attendees will receive $200 of “funny money” to use at gaming tables including Blackjack, Roulette, Craps and Poker. Winners will receive a raffle ticket for some great prize items!

Additional funny money will be available for purchase!

Additional funny money will be available for purchase!

We’ll also have a Silent Auction to benefit the HBRA’s charitable endeavors with great prizes - bring your highest bids!

We’ll also have a Silent Auction to benefit the HBRA’s charitable endeavors with great prizes - bring your highest bids!

This fundraising event will help support our partnership with the Circle of Care, helping children and families dealing with pediatric cancer.

This fundraising event will help support our partnership with the Circle of Care, helping children and families dealing with pediatric cancer.

$200 per person

$200 per person

Includes dinner, open bar, and $200 “funny money” for games

Includes dinner, open bar, and $200 “funny money” for games

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE!

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE!

The HBRA of Fairfield County Presents

Casino Night

Sponsorship Opportunities

10.19.23

Rolling Hills Country Club, Wilton

PRESENTING SPONSOR $2000

• Exclusive headline sponsor

• Banner prominently displayed

• Logo on these items: souvenir casino cups, event tickets and HBAF website/social media

• 5 event tickets

• Tagged Instagram post

• Full page ad in Building Connections for two months

WELCOME SPONSOR $2000

• Exclusive welcome from a representative at your company

• Banner at registration table and on HBAF website

• Four representatives to welcome guests

• 5 event tickets

• Tagged Instagram post

• Full page ad in Building Connections for two months

DRINK SPONSOR $1250

• A banner at the bar

• 4 tickets

• Logo on 100 cups to be served at your bar and on HBAF website

RAFFLE SPONSOR $500

• Logo on ticket box, prize tag and banner

• 2 tickets

• Opportunity for company representative to present prize to winner

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

DINNER SPONSOR $2000

• Speaking opportunity

• 5 event tickets

• Banner at event with your logo

• Tagged Instagram post

• Full page ad in Building Connections for two months

SOLD OUT - CHIP SPONSOR $1000

• Exclusive funny money sponsor

• 3 tickets

• Logo on all funny money, a sign to advertise it and on website

GAME ON! SPONSOR $500

• Logo on one gaming table

• 2 tickets

EVENT SPONSOR $250

• Company name on one bistro table

• 1 ticket

Paint & Sip

PWB Meeting

October 26, 2023 @ 4PM

Interstate + Lakeland Lumber 800 Post Rd E., Westport, CT

Hosted by:

Come network with professional women in the building industry while enjoying wine, painting and an educational tour of Interstate’s Design Center.

We will also be gathering a collection for the Westport Women’s Club. Support through monetary donations are much appreciated!

AND THE HBRA OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY INVITE YOU TO:

NOVEMBER GMM

MEETING

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8

6:00PM - 9:00PM AT ED’S GARAGE DOORS/GARAGE LIVING 136 WATER STREET, NORWALK CT 06524

FOOD TRUCKS · OPEN BAR (BEER/WINE)

An opportunity for members to network, listen to speakers, and visit new showrooms in our area!

GUEST SPEAKER: ALAN STEWART

Listen in as Alan Stewart, President at Yellowbrick Real Estate, speaks about the upcoming 2024 real estate market.

ALL HBRA MEMBERS ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND

REGISTER ONLINE AT THE HBRA CALENDAR

RING’S END

Since 1902

RingsEnd.com | 800 · 390 · 1000

RING’S END COMPANY CULTURE

Strategic Vision

To be the premier resource in the building supply industry.

Mission Statement

Bethel | Branford | Danbury

Darien | Fairfield | Lewisboro | Madison New Milford | Newtown | Niantic North Stamford | Norwalk | Orange Stamford | Stratford | Trumbull Westport | Wethersfield | Wilton

JOIN THE RING’S END TEAM!

Do you have a positive attitude that contributes to a high company morale? Are you goal-oriented and self-motivated? Can you connect with our customers and build strong relationships? Are you an effective communicator? Do you present yourself professionally? If so, you may be a perfect candidate for a career at Ring’s End!

Ring’s End is a Connecticut-based lumber and building materials retailer serving Connecticut, South County, Rhode Island, and Southern Westchester County, New York. We are a thirdgeneration, family owned and operated business with a rich history dating back to 1902. With 20 retail locations, Ring’s End continues to expand and evolve as an industry leader.

The positions at Ring’s End are as diverse as the employees who hold them. Discover your passionjoin the Ring’s End team today!

To provide the very best products, industry knowledge, customer service, and shopping experience. We do this by employing the best team in the industry, ensuring we maintain a diverse, evolved work environment that values cooperation and teamwork. We look for innovation and continuous improvement in everything we do.

Our Values

• Integrity

• Passion

• Pride

• Accountability

• Community

Work Environment & Commitment to Safety

• Total commitment to safety and teamwork

• Zero tolerance for any form of discrimination or harassment

• On-the-job training/certifications Compensation

• Weekly pay

• Direct deposit & electronic pay stubs (paperless)

• Competitive wages and overtime compensation

• Profit sharing

• Discretionary bonus program

Benefits

• Medical plans including HMO, POS, and HDHP (with HSA)

• Section 125 Flexible Spending Account & Dependent Care Accounts

• Employee Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance

• Long & Short Term Disability

• Paid holidays

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Workplace flexibility

• Education Assistance Program

• Employee Wellness Program

• Legal Consultation Program

NEW MEMBERS

Anastasia Interior Design | Tina Anastasia

Tina Anastasia’s interiors are known for their restrained elegance—they’re always chic but never overpowering. Forms, colors, and textures capture the uniqueness of each family and each special place. Read More

BA Staging & Interiors, LLC | Birgit Anich

BA Staging & Interiors is the premier home staging company in Fairfield county, Westchester county, New Haven county and lower Litchfield county catering to home sellers who are looking for a competitive marketing edge when selling real estate. Read More

Cornerstone Construction and Marble | Pina Petisi

Your full service remodeling specialists with over 40 years of experience and customer satisfaction. From concept through construction, to the finishing touches of each of your projects, you can rely on us to deliver a personal environment tailored specifically for you. Read More

Ethan Allen Stamford | Linda DeSouza

Shop Ethan Allen for high-quality furniture and accessories for every room. A broad range of styles; thousands of custom options; free design help. Read More

Heritage Housing Inc. | David McCarthy

Heritage Housing Inc. builds new affordable housing to create opportunities for lowincome families to live comfortably in safe, high-quality apartments. We acquire and rehabilitate existing affordable housing to preserve its affordability into the future and to bring the apartments up to modern standards. Read More

John Clements Architect | John Clements

John Clements Architect is a solo architectural practice that specializes in residential design and small commercial projects. Project scope ranges from small additions to new construction. Read More

KLAR Studio | Paul Mattus

KLAR Studio is the market leader of custom, European windows + doors that elevate any architectural project. Drawing on our experience and the imagination of accomplished architects, designers and homeowners, we personally manufacture our products that are handcrafted for elegance and sophistication. Read More

Lansing Building Products, LLC | George Harvey

Lansing Building Products provides superior service in supplying exterior building products to professional contractors while maintaining the highest ethical standards. Read More

“Gatehouse Partners has been advertising with New England Home Connecticut since 2017. Roberta and the rest of the team have been instrumental in helping to get our brand in front of our target audience: homeowners, architects, and interior designers. Working with the New England Home Connecticut team feels closer to a supportive friendship than a business agreement. We highly recommend them (and their networking events) to everyone in the home industry!”

KRISTEN SULLIVAN, GATEHOUSE PARTNERS

National Lumber Inc. | Sean Ryan

National Lumber Inc. provides full service framing, millwork, trusses, engineered joists & beams, windows, kitchens and trim to the area’s largest, most respected residential contractors and remodelers. Our professional sales and service staff work hard to ensure timely deliveries and efficient order production. Read More

Segerson Builders, LLC | Conlan Segerson

We are a high-end custom building company specializing in new homes, additions and renovations in Connecticut, New York and beyond. With over 40 years in Fairfield County, our rich heritage isn’t to be understated – and discerning homeowners and leading architects have come to rely on Segerson Builders for exquisite attention to detail and comprehensive knowledge of master home-building. Read More

Southport Construction, LLC | Frank Festini

Southport Construction, LLC provides custom home building and renovation by working with our full-service design/build team or bringing in plans from your architect. We specialize in construction and remodeling in and around coastal Fairfield County. Read More

Thomas Sturges Construction, LLC | Tom Sturges

Build your dream home! At Tom Sturges Construction, we pride ourselves on performance and mutual trust. We render daily attention throughout the building process insuring a great experience. The combination of our craftsmanship and creative vision enables us to accommodate all aspirations. Read More

JOB BANK

AVAILABLE JOBS:

These opportunities are offered by the HBRA members listed in the specific advertisement. Please do not contact the HBRA regarding these listings.

Accurate Lock And Hardware

JOB TITLE: Customer Solutions Specialist

SUMMARY: In this role, you will communicate with customers via phone and email, help determine their requirements, process purchase orders, provide quotations, check on order status and expedite orders. You will be part of a team that provides customer service and support for a wide array of products to a network of showroom and contract hardware distributors, OEM accounts, architects, designers and specifiers.

Bear Paw Builders Inc.

JOB TITLE: Part Time Bookkeeper

START DATE: immediately

Salary: $30-$35 per hour

SUMMARY: Experienced bookkeeper experienced in construction job costing with QuickBooks.

CONTACT: peter@bpaw.com

Chloe Winston Lighting Design

JOB TITLE: Showroom Coordinator

RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist with showroom opening and closing duties, answer phones and make customer appointments, greet customers in showroom and make them feel welcomed, receive deliveries and help with in-store merchandise pick-ups, liaise with showroom, manufacturers, and designers, architects, builders and retail customers, and support sales team.

HOURS: Monday-Friday 10am-4pm

Email resume to hello@chloewinstonlighting.com

AVAILABLE JOBS: (Continued)

These opportunities are offered by the HBRA members listed in the specific advertisement. Please do not contact the HBRA regarding these listings.

Lansing Building Products, LLC

JOB TITLE: Outside Sales - Norwalk, CT (lever.co)

START DATE: immediately

SUMMARY: Full time - secures new business while building and maintaining relationships with customers.

CONTACT: (203) 831-0977 or george.harvey@lansingbp.com

Studio KC LLC

JOB TITLE: Jr Designer/Project Manager

SUMMARY: Studio KC is an emerging high end interior design firm located in Norwalk specializing in full home renovations, kitchens, baths and custom millwork. We are looking for a Junior Designer/Project Manager to join our tight knit team. Our office is a fun, fast paced environment where collaboration and mutual support are encouraged.

High Mortgage Rates Continue to Weaken Builder Confidence

Persistently high mortgage rates above 7% continue to erode builder confidence, as sentiment levels have dropped below the key breakeven measure of 50 for the first time in five months. Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes in September fell five points to 45, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today. This follows a six-point drop in August. “The two-month decline in builder sentiment coincides with when mortgage rates jumped above 7% and significantly eroded buyer purchasing power,” said NAHB Chairman Alicia Huey, a custom home builder and developer from Birmingham, Ala. “And on the supply-side front, builders continue to grapple with shortages of construction workers, buildable lots and distribution transformers, which is further adding to housing affordability woes. Insurance cost and availability is also a growing concern for the housing sector.”

Read More

Senate Bill Would Repeal Onerous Energy Codes Provision

At NAHB’s urging, Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) introduced S. 2806, the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act, legislation that would repeal a section of the Inflation Reduction Act that provides $1 billion to pressure state and local governments to adopt costly and restrictive energy codes.

Read More

State Mandated Retirement Plans

Employee Contribution Limits

$6,500 (2023) $22,500 (2023) $7,500 if age 50 or older (2023)

if age 50 or older (2023)

Employer Contributions Not Allowed

Matching and profit-sharing contributions (Not Required though)

$66,000 (2023 defined contribution annual addition limit)

Automatic Enrollment Yes Yes

Employer Tax Credits May be permitted

Potential tax credits of up to $5,500 per year for the first 3 years. Potential employer contribution credit of $1,000 (maximum) per employee

Investment options Limited Broad Offering Available

Administrative responsibilities

As required by state law

Subject to Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) reporting, disclosure requirements, and fiduciary duties

Be Unstoppable with Help from UPS®

The world moves fast – and your NAHB UPS® Savings Program has the tools you need to help your small business move even faster. We’re here to help you push envelopes and ride the edge of what’s possible. We’ll be right by your side with everything you need to keep blazing forward. Let UPS® help make your business unstoppable. Members enjoy the following savings every time you ship:

• 50% off Domestic Next Day / Deferred

• 30% off Ground Commercial / Residential

• 50% off International Exports & 40% off Imports

• Up to 50% off on additional services.

• Plus, UPS Smart Pickup® service is free.

Don’t Let Shipping Mishaps Slow You Down

A lot can go wrong in shipping – package loss, breakage, porch piracy theft. The good news is that you can mitigate the financial impact of some shipping mishaps with InsureShield® shipping coverage.

Through your NAHB UPS® Savings Program, you have access to insurance that can help keep your business moving despite the everyday risks of shipping.

All you have to do is enter the value of the goods in the declared value* field of your UPS® approved shipping system and you are on your way to better shipping experiences.

Start covering your shipments today: savewithups.com/nahb

Legal Disclaimer:

Insurance coverage is offered through UPS Capital Insurance Agency, Inc., a licensed insurance producer. If you elect protection for your shipment, it will be insured under a policy of insurance (the “Policy”), but you are not an insured under the Policy. In the event of a loss covered under such Policy, any resulting claim payment will be directed to you as a loss payee. All insurance-related information is provided by UPS Capital and does not in any way alter or amend the terms, conditions, or exclusions of the Policy. Insurance coverage is not available in all jurisdictions or on all shipments.

© 2023 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. UPS, UPS Capital, InsureShield, the UPS brandmark, and the color brown are trademarks of United Parcel Service of America, Inc. All rights reserved.

2024 NGBS Comment Period Closing Soon

Home Innovation Research Labs recently released a draft of the 2024 National Green Building Standard (NGBS). The 2024 NGBS Draft 1 includes many changes, such as updating the reference standards to align with more modern versions of the I-codes and introduces new compliance pathways for existing buildings and buildings located in the Tropical Climate Zone.

As an ANSI-approved standard, the NGBS is subject to periodic review and updates to ensure consideration of advances in building codes, technology and other developments. Initiated in 2007 by the International Code Council (ICC) and NAHB, the 2008 NGBS was the first point-based rating system for green residential construction, remodeling and land development to be approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

Anyone may submit comments regarding the changes shown in the draft version. Only the marked changes and sections directly affected by those changes are open for comment. Comments must be submitted by Oct. 2, 2023.

Read More

The Best of IBS Awards Are Now Open

Each year, the NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) recognizes the outstanding building products and services from exhibiting companies in nine categories with the Best of IBS Awards:

• Best Business Solution Software

• Best Energy Efficient Product

• Best Home Technology Product

• Best Indoor Product

• Best Kitchen & Bath Product

• Best Outdoor Product

• Best Window & Door Product

• Most Innovative Building Material Product

• Most Innovative Construction Tool

Read More

Labor Department Proposes Changes to Overtime Pay Rules for Certain Salaried Workers

Late last week, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued a proposed rulemaking that would extend eligibility for overtime pay to roughly 3.6 million salaried workers.

Specifically, the agency’s proposal would increase the current salary level for determining overtime pay requirements for executive, administrative, professional, outside sales, and computer employees from $684 a week ($35,568 annualized) to $1,059 a week ($55,068 annualized) – a nearly 55% increase.

The rulemaking also proposes to put in place automatic updates to the salary level every three years to reflect current earnings data and inflation.

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, salaried workers are exempt from overtime pay requirements if a worker earns at or above a defined salary level called the “standard salary.” Under the proposal, salaried workers — which often include construction supervisors — earning less than $55,068 per year will be eligible to receive the standard overtime rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek.

Read More

How to Get Started in Offsite Construction

Offsite construction continues to be a hot topic in the building industry and beyond for its efficiency and speed amid the current housing supply shortage. Despite its growing appeal, however, only 2% of homes are constructed using offsite building methods. These building methods often require a shift not only in construction techniques and materials, but in companies’ business models as well, which can be daunting to builders.

“Offsite construction can streamline the building process and significantly reduce construction time, delivering projects 20% to 50% faster than traditional methods at a cost savings of up to 20%,” shared Matt Belcher, principal at Verdatek Solutions LLC and Enhanced Building Systems LLC, and chair of NAHB’s Building Systems Councils. “This approach also offers a strong business case to builders, for whom time is money, by mitigating delays due to weather exposure, availability issues with onsite delivery, onsite workforce issues and assembly on a piecemeal basis.”

Read More

Single-Family Home Size Falls to More Than a Decade Low

According to second quarter 2023 data from the Census Quarterly Starts and Completions by Purpose and Design and NAHB analysis, median singlefamily square floor area declined to 2,191 square feet, the lowest reading since the end of 2010. Home size increased in 2021 as the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the need for more residential space, as more people stayed at home and used their residential property for offices, gyms and classrooms.

Read More

Zillow-Redfin Partnership Increases Exposure for New-Construction Listings

Facing an historically low inventory of existing homes for sale, a growing number of prospective buyers are shifting their search to new construction. And Zillow, a member of the NAHB Leading Suppliers Council, is making that shift even easier for consumers. Zillow’s new-construction listings will soon be automatically syndicated to Redfin, connecting home builders with millions of motivated buyers on both platforms. The partnership will dramatically expand the reach of builders’ listings on Zillow and allow Redfin customers to explore a broader range of newconstruction homes for sale, helping create a more seamless home buying experience.

The new partnership comes at a pivotal time in the housing industry. In July 2023, new single-family home sales were up 31.5% from a year ago.

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Protect Your Workers with the Latest NAHB Fall Prevention Resources

Falls continue to be the leading cause of accidents and injuries in home building and construction at large. OSHA also issued more than 5,100 citations to businesses that failed to provide or provided inadequate fall protection systems for workers, resulting in more than $34 million in penalties in 2022 alone.

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Built On Great Relationships

We are proud to work with the top builders, designers and remodelers in Connecticut. Your considerable talents enhance the lives of people – and we are thrilled to play a part in your success.

“To help us deliver our designs, we trust Bender and their amazing showrooms and consultants. They make the whole process come together seamlessly.”

Jonathan

Gordon, Design by the Jonathans

X Design Consultation including on-site walk-throughs and Recessed lighting layouts

X Large offering and inventory of integrated LED Recessed Lighting

X Indoor and Outdoor Lighting for all applications

X Door, Cabinet & Bath Hardware

X Motorized & Manual Window Shades

X Lutron Lighting Controls Standard Wallbox to HomeWorks

X Bath Ventilation Fans

X Builder programs

Debunking the Top Myths in the Remodeling Business

Owning a business can be very tricky, and for many talented remodelers, managing a business successfully is harder because of persistent myths in the remodeling industry.

In the latest installment of NAHB’s Remodeling Forecasts, Myths & Trends video series sponsored by Lowe’s Pro, longtime remodeler and subject matter expert Alan Hanbury, Jr., CGR, GMR, CAPS, MBA, highlights five industry myths that could be limiting some remodelers’ business potential. By taking a deeper dive into several common misconceptions, Hanbury, in Remodeling Myths Part 1, transforms these myths into actionable tips and advice about taxes, paperwork, software, bookkeeping, advertising and more.

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Is There a Better Way to Build?

It’s no secret the construction industry is facing numerous challenges, including labor shortages, supply chain issues, and the increasing need to build more energy-efficient buildings. But many builders still don’t know that there’s an innovative way to overcome these challenges while building in a fraction of the time.

How? With panelized construction.

Panelized construction is a cutting-edge building method that involves the fabrication of building components in a controlled environment before they are transported to the jobsite and assembled.

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What’s New for the 2024 International Builders’ Show

The NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) returns to Las Vegas on Feb. 27-29, 2024, with exciting new features to enhance your experience, provide more learning opportunities and ensure that industry professionals get the maximum value for their time.

Here’s what’s new for the 2024 IBS:

Pre-show Learning Opportunities

Two new pre-show symposiums explore critical segments of the housing sector. Network with industryleading education and content experts, and discuss challenges and best practices with your peers during these in-depth, full-day intensive programs.

Event Floor Categories

The exhibit floor will be segmented into six categories and the Outdoor Exhibits to allow attendees to streamline their visit based on specific interests, product categories and thematic zones. Check out the latest list of exhibitors at BuildersShow.com.

Increased Education Options and Flexibility

The most sought-after sessions will provide encore sessions to help ensure that everyone has an additional opportunity to participate in the sessions they want to attend. The number of rooms for educational sessions is also increasing. By distributing more sessions across the day, attendees have greater flexibility in arranging their agendas, leading to a more effective learning experience. .

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Agility vs. Fragility: A Builder's Guide to Navigating Chaos

Extreme weather, supply-chain disruptions and staffing changes are just a few of the countless challenges business owners will face. But because no one can predict the future, creating an agile business strategy will help prepare you for whatever issues may arise.

The BizTools Video Series collection on disaster preparedness wraps up this month with its third installment, “Agility: The Builder’s Antidote to Chaos” (free subscription for NAHB members). The latest video features Matthew Collins, managing member of the Mainspring Group, teaching viewers how to become resilient, adapt swiftly and even flourish in times of rapid change and uncertainty. If a company is only set up to operate within consistent market conditions, any number of disruptions can weaken — and potentially break — its structural and operational integrity. In contrast, an agile company can more easily maneuver these disruptions with prepared responses baked into its operations.

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Housing Starts Lower on Rising Mortgage Rates

Higher mortgage rates averaging above 7% put a damper on singlefamily production in August, as builders also continue to face supply-side challenges in the form of elevated construction costs, a lack of skilled labor and a shortage of buildable lots.

Led by a sharp decline in multifamily production, overall housing starts fell 11.3% in August to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.28 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

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