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Construction industry challenges and solutions

Written by Christopher Richmann on March 1, 2024. Posted in Construction, Uncategorized. Leave a Comment

The construction industry presents owners, managers, workers, contractors, and more with an
extensive list of potential problems. While it’s one of the most lucrative sectors in the entire
economy, still booming into 2024, traditional construction also creates razor-thin margins. Profits can be high, but the smallest issue can derail your project and payments.

Here are the top challenges and how they may impact your business, your workforce, and your profits.

Delays

The word “delay” is a dirty word on a construction site. Delays are perhaps the most common
issue, and they impact everyone on the job. Of course, delays can be caused by numerous
issues, including poor project management, unexpected labor problems, issues with the supply chain, accidents, and weather. From start to finish, delays can be caused by numerous factors. They can begin in the home office or they can be created at the job site.

Sometimes delays cause additional issues, such as fines, new supply chain issues, additional labor problems, etc. Of course, it can also cost additional expenses (such as additional labor and rental equipment) and erode profits.

That’s why project management is so important in the construction industry. (Hail great project managers!) Great construction project managers don’t just have a plan A, they have a plan B – Z, knowing how to mitigate issues and resolve challenges that may arise.

It’s also why modular construction (also known as offsite construction) is becoming so popular. Many components are built in a warehouse or facility that’s covered, and unaffected by inclement weather.

Errors in documentation

The size, scope, and complexity of construction projects are changing. Both commercial and
residential construction projects are seeing increases in efforts to speed up the process; ironically those changes are causing costly errors. Errors and omissions in overall documentation, especially during the preconstruction process, can mean increased costs and schedule delays.

Documentation errors can occur at numerous levels. Contract documents, drawings, pay applications, change orders, and submittals can all hold errors. When errors are found, it means rechecking details, refining contracts, communicating adjustments to personnel, and, on occasion, refining construction plans.

Our advice? Read, re-read, and re-read again your documentation. Have more than one person sign off, too … even for smaller projects.

Contract changes (yup, change orders)

Changes affect the time, scope, resources, materials, and cost of a project.

You know even the most simple change order may trigger a chain reaction of events, impacting numerous contractors and their teams. Occasionally, subcontractors make changes to the contract and begin working on the modification before they have approval to do so. This situation, which is all too common, can create payment disputes between the contractor and the owner or manager.

Planning and communication can help solve this issue, including determining who has authorization for a change. When more effort is spent reviewing site conditions and drawings, and there is a clear, mandatory process for making changes, the chance of this issue is significantly reduced.

Subcontractor closes their business

Subcontractors are running a business, too. And as we all know, they can face issues and have to close business. If a subcontractor fails in the middle of a project, construction owners and managers are left scrambling to fill the gap. As construction projects become more complex, there is an increase in the number of contractors, which increases the chances of a subcontractor default. The entire project can come to a halt until subcontractor issues are addressed and a new sub is found to fill the void.

Labor shortages and unions

Finding reliable, qualified labor is a challenge for every industry. For the construction field, it’s
one of the most frustrating and continuous challenges in the sector. Sadly, it’s not just your staff that you need to worry about. Will subcontractors have enough manpower to get the work they promised done? If not, your project could be in jeopardy.

If you have a union-based project, you have the potential for strikes that could slam the brakes on a project.

Improper forecasting

The construction industry may rely on planning, forecasting, and proper budgeting more than
any other sector. But it’s not easy and it’s rarely 100% accurate. Improper forecasting can create
unattainable goals and expectations, while improper budgets can significantly harm long-term
profits.

Although there isn’t a perfect solution to forecasting issues, it helps to break down the planning
into small segments (as small as reasonable) and focus meticulously on each task. This will provide better detail and clarification throughout construction.

Health and safety issues

It will come as no surprise that the construction industry is one of the most dangerous professions in the world. Falls, equipment misuse, vehicle accidents, and electrocution are just a few of the risks in this high-paced, high-pressure industry. But it’s not just accidents that cause immediate injury. Dust inhalation, loud noises, high/low temperatures, and more can create serious issues for a construction team.

Of course, following OSHA guidelines is a must. Also, listening to your employees on safety matters can make a huge difference. Your workers will know some of the risks maybe even before your quality or risk manager does.

Construction solutions

At Elevated, we wish we could promise a seamless construction process for every project. Although we can’t, we can help with material supply chain issues and help you stay on top of needed supplies. For example, we have safety gear to protect your workforce — we provide high-visibility apparel, hard hats, glasses, ear protection, gloves, and more. Elevated even has stocking agreements to ensure you never run out of a necessary supply. We also work with suppliers, such as OSI, who train your workforce and subcontractors on the best ways to use products. And we have ideas to streamline your processes to hit your deadlines and budget.

What are hook and loop as well as reclosable fasteners?

Written by Tami Matthews on October 10, 2023. Posted in Aerospace & defense, Industrial, Industrial supplies, Manufacturing, Signage, Tapes, Uncategorized. Leave a Comment

Hook and loop fasteners as well as reclosable fasteners secure things. Haven’t heard of this technology? You probably have! You may know this fastener style by a brand name: Velcro. Like “Kleenex” many people confuse tissues and Kleenex. (Hand me a Kleenex!) In the same way, people also use Velco and hook and loop or reclosable fasteners interchangeably.

The history of Velcro

The Smithsonian indicates a Swiss engineer named George de Mastral was walking with his dog when he noticed burrs were stuck in his clothing and to his pup. Intrigued by how the burrs clung to fabrics and hair, he examined them under a microscope. To his surprise, they had tiny hooks that attached themselves to loops in the fabric of his clothes. Inspired, he thought they had practical uses in manufacturing and decided to create them himself.

After years of experimentation and development, de Mestral patented his invention in 1955, and called it “Velcro” (a combination of the French words for velvet and crochet). The Velcro fastening system quickly gained popularity and found a wide range of applications in various industries.

Since that time, other companies have created their own version of “Velcro.” However, the brand name is owned by Velcro IP Holdings LLC and trades as Velcro Companies, a privately held company in the UK.

Why are hook and loop as well as recloseable fasteners used?

According to 3M, one of the leading suppliers of this technology, hook and loop and reclosable fasteners are great for people who need closure to go on easily but securely, be conformable to your part shape, and stay closed until you’re ready for it to easily peel open. Here are just a few reasons people choose hook and loop fasteners for their projects.

Ease to use. Hook and loop fasteners are simple to use. They consist of two components: tiny hooks and small loops. Pushing the two components together creates a secure and temporary bond, and pulling them apart releases it. This simplicity makes them accessible to people of all ages and abilities. It’s why they’re used on medical devices, such as leg braces.
Reusability. Hook and loop fasteners are designed for multiple uses. They can be opened and closed repeatedly without impacting the effectiveness of the hold. This reusability makes them ideal for applications where you need to attach and detach items frequently.
No other tools are required saving time and resources. Unlike traditional fasteners such as screws, nails, tapes, or adhesives, hook and loop fasteners don’t require hardware for installation. This saves time and eliminates the need for drilling holes or using adhesives that can damage surfaces.
Versatility. Hook and loop fasteners are available in various sizes, strengths, and colors, making them versatile for different applications. Industries such as clothing, footwear, automotive, aerospace, and healthcare all use hook and loop.
Safety. In some applications, particularly in child and medical products, hook and loop fasteners are preferred because they eliminate the risk of sharp edges or protruding parts. That reduces the likelihood of injuries and ensures children and medical products are safe.
Temperature and chemical resistance. Depending on the specific type and brand, hook and loop fasteners can be resistant to various environmental factors, including temperature extremes and chemicals.

Who uses them?

Everyone. No doubt, you’ve used hook and loop or reclosable fasteners in your personal life. As noted above, many industries from aerospace to healthcare to textiles use hook-and-loop technology as well as recloseable fasteners. And they’re used on products from purses and shoes to transportation seating and signage.

Types and brands

There are varying types of hook and loop as well as recloseable fasteners from a number of suppliers. Here are just a few of our favorites by the trait.

For strength, 3M has Dual Lock (see right), which provides more strength than other brands. 3M uses “mushroom heads” for what they indicate is “5x the tensile strength of hook and loop fasteners.” It also mates to itself, so you don’t have to worry about which side you’re using for your project. Despite how well it holds, this technology can still be pulled apart without hardware. These come in a variety of colors and sizes.

3M also provides Scotchmate Hook and Loop, which is strong but can be sewn into textiles or uses adhesives to secure it to surfaces.

There are flame-resistant (with or without adhesive) options, including the SJ3419FR (Hook) and SJ3418FR (Loop). There are even high-performance choices that hold up under extreme conditions, such as SJ3572 (Hook) and SJ3571 (Loop).

For just about any need, there’s a fastener you can use!

Elevated can help with hook and loop fasteners

As with most projects, hook and loop fasteners may not be right for you. Of course, your project’s purpose and goals weigh into whether you use them and which type you use. Elevated carries a wide array to meet the needs of your project. We have industrial solutions specialists who can help you decide if it’s right for your company, and which brand and option to get.

Download the new and improved Integra Adhesives app

Written by Christopher Richmann on August 4, 2023. Posted in Adhesives, Construction, Countertop, Featured, Uncategorized. Leave a Comment

Integra Adhesives, a leader in countertop fabrication adhesives, has updated its app so users can easily find and select the right adhesives for a specific project. With color-matching tools, tutorial videos, and product-search features, this version of the app makes it easier to select from Integra’s numerous options.

What’s new in the app? Here are a few highlights:

Color matching using charts and swatches, including of natural stone, to select the ideal adhesives
Adhesive calculator so fabricators can select the right amount of product
Product info, including safety sheets
Tutorial videos that show clear demonstrations

Leading adhesives and usable applications that handle just-in-time help. It’s why Integra Adhesives, owned by IPS Corporation, is ahead of other countertop seam adhesive companies.

Color match

For most users, the color-matching tool is the most important feature of the Integra Adhesives app. By accessing the color charts, users can browse hundreds of colors with a quick-scroll alphabetical bar. Users can then tap to reveal matches or search for brands and sheets.

There is also a natural stone gallery that allows you to browse hundreds of stone images and tap the best choice to reveal the ideal color match.

As part of the color-matching tools, Integra has included swatches for every single Integra product. The tool allows users to simply tap a selection and compare it to similar colors.

Product search

Integra has a collection of products, and finding the right option isn’t always easy. To make the process simple, they have created a product-search feature as part of the app. This feature provides product overviews and descriptions so users can make an informed decision. With specs, resources, and tips for users, this search tool makes finding the right adhesive much easier.

Now you’ll know when Integra recommends Rapid or XI. Of course, you can also use our comparison chart.

Adhesive calculator and videos

The app also features help for fabricators and installers when it comes to how much of the product is needed. This new version includes a calculator. Fabricators can type in the length and thickness of the seam and include other details, such as the number of laminated edges and mitered edges to receive an estimate of how much material is required.

Tutorial videos are also included. These videos include product demonstrations that make installing Integra products much easier. It may save you time from going to your favorite groups to ask about a specific issue or challenge.

Download the app

Anyone wanting to download the app can do it from the Google PlayStore (for Google devices) or iTunes (for Apple phones). After looking up “Integra Adhesives” in the search, select “Install.” It may take a couple of minutes. When it’s finished downloading, select “Open”. You’ll see all the features we mentioned above. If you have questions, contact us!

Beyond Integra

Integra Adhesives is an expert in the countertop surface industry. With their wide range of products, they have solutions for just about every countertop need. When countertop professionals find new challenges, we’re there. For example, at Elevated, we’ve heard some of you want knife-grade solutions, polishers, caulk, and more. That’s why we carry a full line of countertop fabrication and installation solutions to creatively solve every issue you have when you’re fabricating or installing.

International Code Council (ICC) primer on offsite construction

Written by Christopher Richmann on June 20, 2023. Posted in Featured, Manufactured housing, Uncategorized. Leave a Comment

In August of 2022, the International Code Council (ICC) released a “Primer on Off-Site Construction, Codes, Standards, and Compliance,” a document that detailed the various codes and standards for a variety of modular construction types. No matter what you call it (modular, prefabricated buildings, offsite construction, tiny homes, tiny houses, ADUs), these guidelines help construction companies understand how to meet general regulations.

We’ve created a useful summary, which outlines the most important points for all professionals in the modular space.

Panelized systems

The first topic that the ICC tackles is panelized systems. These panels come in many different forms, which dictate how they are inspected. Open construction is usually easier to inspect at the job site, and if the design is relatively uniform it can often be evaluated by a service to verify code requirements. This approach, which is also useful for closed construction, can speed up the process.

Closed construction not addressed during the evaluation could be subject to state programs, which vary by region.

Main points:

Panels that have open construction are easily inspected at the job site.
They could be evaluated by a private service, which would make the inspection process more efficient.
The evaluation process could also be used for closed construction panels like structural insulated panels, which are commonly called “SIPs.”
A state industrialized-building program could be used, but requirements vary from state to state.

Manufactured homes

The ICC points out that manufactured homes have been an affordable housing option for many years, noting that (according to the Manufactured Housing Institute), roughly 22 million people live in these homes and 9% of new single-family starts in 2020 were manufactured houses.

Regulation for these properties is tricky. They are regulated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and must meet specific requirements for minimum width and length. There are also standards for the design and construction of these homes, as well as the installation, which is usually overseen by local authorities.

However, HUD requirements supersede state and local codes. So if HUD says it must be 40 feet in length, a local government can’t say it must be 38 feet. They could, however, say it must be 42 feet, as this would not negate HUD’s rules.

Manufactured housing goes through an inspection process just like all residential housing. HUD uses Primary Inspection Agencies (PIAs) to complete these tasks. Unless delegated to a state program, HUD maintains regulation of these homes.

Main points:

Manufactured housing is regulated by HUD.
HUD says they must be 8 feet wide and 40 feet long.
HUD uses Primary Inspection Agencies (PIAs) for inspections.
They may delegate inspection to state agencies.
A manufacturer may opt out of the HUD requirements if they follow requirements equivalent to those contained in a nationally recognized model building code.

Tiny homes

Tiny houses are affordable and convenient, and provide a solution to many of the challenges faced by new homeowners. As housing issues continue to strain cities across the U.S., zoning laws are being opened for these unique structures. These new laws are allowing tiny houses, also known as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), to become more common.

However, there is a lot of confusion and many different types. For example, some are on wheels while others are fixed to a permanent foundation. There is also a wide variety of codes and standards being used in various states and municipalities.

ICC helps to alleviate the confusion by providing coding and regulation information on these structures. They have created the International Residential Code to address this situation.

Modular professionals working in the tiny house sector should remember that for ADUs to remain a viable option for customers, the units must maintain health, safety, and efficiency standards.

Main points:

Tiny houses are also known as accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
They are seen as part of the solution to housing shortages.
The adoption of safety and health standards is important for maintaining these units as viable housing options.

Modules and pods

Outside of manufactured homes, the other type of permanent construction is modules and pods. These pods are often used to efficiently create sections of a home like a kitchen or bathroom. They come to the job ready to be installed, creating a high level of efficiency, but they are often closed in, so components like pipes and wiring are not visible. Inspection, therefore, must be done at the factory.

Because offsite construction is gaining traction, 35 states have established programs to address these pods.

The process in general is similar from state to state, but there are many variations. The ICC and MBI want to see best practices and greater consistency across the entire industry. They have even released standards recommendations for off-site construction, which have already been adopted by some cities and are being considered by others.

Many states allow for third-party review, but the third party must be recognized by the state. In states with a program, approval is the responsibility of local jurisdictions. However, these jurisdictions often don’t have the resources and skills to complete inspections. The adoption of standards, according to the ICC, could help avoid project revisits.

Main points:

These units require the inspection to be completed at the factory.
The units must meet the requirements and codes for the state where they will be installed, not where they are built.
35 states have programs that address off-site construction.
The state typically requires a quality-assurance plan at the factory.
The ICC and MBI would like to see the adoption of universal standards to help low-resource jurisdictions deal with these issues.

Shipping containers

The ICC report highlights another interesting development in modular construction: shipping containers. These containers, which are used to ship goods all over the globe, can be converted into a variety of different structures, including living spaces.

However, these containers were not built for habitation, so there are numerous concerns related to overall safety. The ICC created guidelines for the safe use of these containers as a living space, which include weld specifications, material requirements, and other details.

Manufacturers can show that their products conform to specific structural requirements through the Evaluation Service Report (ESR) which can also be used to streamline the construction process.

There is also an accreditation that workers can complete. This will show that workers implement and follow a specific quality-assurance process. It may not be required, but having this accreditation sets the manufacturer apart from the competition and builds consumer confidence.

Main points:

Shipping containers can be repurposed for many uses, including the creation of a habitation space.
Shipping containers are not originally meant for buildings, so there are a variety of safety concerns.
The ICC has created a guideline for using these containers as a habitation space.
The guidelines include structural elements, bracing, and other factors.
There is also accreditation that allows fabrication workers to show their skills and quality processes and could help build consumer confidence.

Dealing with new innovations in offsite construction

Researchers continue to develop innovative methods to advance the design and construction process. Unfortunately, new technologies, because they are so unique and innovative, do not fit into neat categories. This creates new complications for compliance and building codes, and the demonstration of compliance is not a straightforward process.

But the ICC says that product evaluation processes can give manufacturers a new path to have products and techniques tested in a streamlined fashion. It could also help avoid multiple tests to satisfy different jurisdictions.

Main points:

Researchers are creating new innovations for modular and off-site construction.
Rapid innovations make inspections and evaluations more difficult.
A specific, outlined process for evaluation can make the process faster and smoother.

Codes and compliance will continue to evolve

Off-site construction is taking many different forms and requires a robust approach to code compliance and standards. Closed construction, for example, requires in-factory inspections to ensure proper placement of plumbing, wiring, and other components. If certain components are repetitive, efficiencies could be seen through a specific product evaluation system.

One thing is certain: as off-site and modular construction continues to advance, the codes and procedures will advance as well. Manufacturers, therefore, need to pay particular attention to these changes so they can stay ahead of the curve.

Support for modular construction supplies

When you need expert advice on supplies and accessories for modular construction and manufactured housing, we are here to help. We can identify the right products for manufacturers creating single-family, multi-family, commercial space, and more.

Odor control in the cannabis industry

Written by Guest Author on May 9, 2023. Posted in Cannabis, Uncategorized. Leave a Comment

When it comes to harvesting cannabis and manufacturing cannabis-based products, states have different tolerances for the smell that — pun intended — crops up. Some states have stringent laws to attempt to control the odor for people who work at these facilities as well as neighbors nearby. In Massachusetts, for example, the town of Holyoke has raised a stink.

Luckily, there’s a product on the market that removes that odor in a way that’s different from the competition. It doesn’t mask the odor, it eliminates it: Greentech Environmental filters. And Elevated is proud to carry these filters from Greentech.

Greentech has “the receipts” as it were to verify it removes the odor. They have scientific data from third parties, as well as are working on more research, to prove just that.

Read on from Brandon Taylor, CEO of Greentech and MMJDaily allowing us to carry this article.

“[Greentech has] the only filter on the market that is treated with ODOGard, a patented technology. The technology destroys odors at the molecular level by creating a covalent bond with the odor molecule, changing its structure and making it inert to where it smells like nothing,” explains Brandon Taylor, CEO at Greentech Environmental. According to Brandon, cannabis has been an emerging opportunity for the company and its products. “As more and more legal grow operations have emerged, some are located in places where we all live and work. The odor protruding from the grow facility can cause major issues in some areas. Cannabis companies need to be able to coexist with their neighbors. Therefore, better odor control is necessary.”

How does odor-free cannabis work?

Of course, there are several methods of odor reduction already available. “The most common method is using a carbon filter. Yet, these are not very effective, need to be changed regularly, and are expensive. When using a type of air freshener instead, it’s just a cover-up process that wears off over time.” Brandon explains that the ODOGard technology provides a unique difference. “It bonds with the molecule, changing the molecular structure, so that the odor simply does not exist anymore.” The technology is already being used for odor-free diapers and trash bags.

“Moreover, the quality of the filter itself is really important. Our filters use nanofiber technology,” Brandon explains. “Nanofibers are much smaller in diameter than regular filter material, so they create more surface area to catch particulates and odors. More surface area means more ODOGard to neutralize odors.”

“We did an independent third-party test, the results of which showed that our MERV 11 filters with ODOGard stop odors and the VOCs better than any filters currently on the market,” Brandon says. In addition to filters, Greentech offers a full line of air purification products to mitigate mold, mildew, and other pathogens. “Test results showed that when combining our technologies, it removes 99% more airborne terpenes and 140% more VOCs than when using carbon filters.” The fiber material of the filters also allows cultivators to reduce system pressure drop to save energy and money over time.

Adapting to growers’ needs

Greentech is focused on introducing new technologies that create solutions for customers. “That is how our filters were developed. A customer had an odor need and asked us to create a solution. We had the technology, know-how, and R&D to develop the filters. We believe we are in a paradigm shift in terms of odor control with this innovation. With our entire line of air purification products, we are helping cannabis growers protect their crops and investment,” Brandon adds.