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Anatomy of an Interior Door: Understanding the Basics
Nov 11, 2024
Interior doors are more than just functional components of a home—they contribute significantly to a room's privacy, noise control, and overall aesthetic. With options...
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Kitchen & Bath Terminology: A Contractor's Guide
Nov 8, 2024
Renovating or constructing kitchens and bathrooms is one of the most significant home improvement projects, known for impacting functionality and value. Understanding...
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Jobsite Terminology: A Contractor's Guide
Nov 5, 2024
A contractor jobsite is a dynamic space critical to successful construction. Understanding its roles, tools, and safety practices ensures efficient and safe projects....
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Millwork and Trim Glossary for Professional Builders and Remodelers
Nov 1, 2024
Millwork and trim are vital components in construction and interior design, providing both structural and aesthetic value to homes and buildings. From baseboards to...
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Framing Terminology: Key Terms, Tips, and More
Oct 30, 2024
Framing is the backbone of construction, forming the structural support for walls, roofs, and floors. At LS Building Products, we supply everything you need to tackle...
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Construction Markup vs. Profit Margin: How to Calculate Each
Oct 25, 2024
Understanding the difference between construction markup and profit margin is important for contractors and business owners in the building trade. While both terms...
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Hurricane Rebuilding Guide: What You Need to Know
Oct 18, 2024
When Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene made landfall on Florida's coast, they left a trail of destruction that deeply impacted coastal communities. The Gulf Coast,...
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The Andersen 400 Series: 5 Key Benefits for Homeowners
Oct 11, 2024
When upgrading your home, picking the right windows and doors is crucial. The Andersen 400 Series is a favorite among many homeowners and builders because of its...
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A Comprehensive Guide to Roofing Terminology
Oct 7, 2024
Understanding the fundamental aspects of roofing not only helps homeowners make smarter choices but also ensures long-term durability and protection for their property....
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Energy-Efficient Windows: U-Value, SHGC, & Low-E Glass Explained
Oct 4, 2024
When improving energy efficiency in homes and commercial buildings, selecting the right windows and doors plays a critical role. Three key factors—U-Value, Solar Heat...
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Siding Materials Glossary: Vinyl, Fiber Cement, and Wood
Oct 2, 2024
Choosing the right siding material for your home or commercial building is a crucial decision. Each type of siding material—vinyl, fiber cement, and wood—has its own...
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Lumber Grading: Key Factors and Common Lumber Grades Explained
Oct 1, 2024
Choosing the right lumber is critical for building projects, from framing to finishing. Each type of lumber has unique characteristics, making it suitable for specific...
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Trusses and Joists: A Builder's Guide to Structural Terminology
Sep 30, 2024
Understanding the key structural components of a building is essential for contractors and general builders alike. Trusses and joists are two of the most critical...
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A Guide to Blueprint Symbols: Floor Plan, MEP, and More
Sep 24, 2024
Construction blueprints show a project's plan, and knowing how to read them is important. This guide will teach you the basics of these technical drawings, what they...
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Federal Interest Rate Change and the Housing Market
Sep 19, 2024
In September 2024, the Federal Reserve made a significant move that has caught the attention of professional builders and remodelers across the nation. The Federal Open...
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What Is a Spec House? A Guide to Building a Spec House
Sep 13, 2024
Building a spec house, or speculative house, means constructing a home to sell for profit instead of personal use. These homes are often built by developers or builders...
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8 Best Benefits of Mastic Carvedwood 44 Siding
Sep 6, 2024
Siding is important for both the look and function of a home. It acts as your home's first shield against the weather, keeping out moisture, pests, and harsh conditions....
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The Best Exterior Siding Options for Midwest Weather
Aug 23, 2024
Exterior siding is a building's first line of defense. However, the wind, rain, and snow can damage insulation, timber, metal fasteners, and even concrete foundations...
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What to Know About Rising Building Material Prices
Aug 16, 2024
In recent years, the prices of building materials have varied greatly. A report from Gordian indicates that around 82.5% of construction materials have experienced a...
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The Builder's Guide to Effective Project Budgeting
Aug 2, 2024
Creating a detailed budget allows builders to make sure their current projects are profitable and prepares them for future work. But construction budgeting can feel...
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Metal Roofing vs. Shingles: Choosing the Right Roof for Your Home
Jul 19, 2024
When deciding on a roofing material for your home, two popular options stand out: metal roofing and shingles. Shingle roofing, which includes asphalt and composite...
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6 Top Tips for Managing a Construction Company
Jul 12, 2024
Managing a construction business can be rewarding, both personally and professionally. However, the residential construction industry is challenging, highly competitive,...
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Our Top Kitchen and Bathroom Design Trends for 2024
Jul 5, 2024
As we reach the halfway point of 2024, the kitchen and bathroom design world is brimming with exciting new trends that blend functionality, sustainability, and style....
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How to Choose the Best Roofing Material
Jun 21, 2024
The range of available materials can seem overwhelming when roofing a home. Each type of roofing material—be it asphalt shingles, metal, tile, wood, or flat systems—has...
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Central Illinois Building Code Updates for 2024
Jun 14, 2024
As a Central Illinois contractor or owner-builder, you must keep up-to-date with the latest changes to local building codes. In Illinois, local governments currently...
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The Best Construction Software for Companies and Contractors
Jun 7, 2024
Efficiency is the cornerstone of any successful construction project. As the industry becomes more complex, the role of construction management software has become ever...
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How to Choose the Best Siding Materials for Your Project
May 23, 2024
Choosing the right exterior siding material for your project is a pivotal decision that impacts not only the aesthetic appeal but also the durability and maintenance...
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How to Reduce Construction Costs with 8 Proven Strategies
May 17, 2024
Every successful construction project depends on a good eye for controlling costs. With material costs and prices, labor costs, and overhead expenses rising and falling...
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Home Construction Costs in 2024: Current & Upcoming Trends
May 10, 2024
Whether you are a professional builder or planning to build a new home for your family, it's important to understand the factors that influence construction costs. The...
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The Ultimate Guide to Viwinco S-Series Windows
Apr 30, 2024
In the bustling world of home construction and remodeling, efficiency and quality are paramount. Your clients trust you to select materials that not only add beauty and...
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The Basics of Construction Estimating
Apr 28, 2024
In the realm of construction, accurate estimating stands at the heart of successful project management and client satisfaction. Whether you're spearheading a sprawling...
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2024 Q2 Construction Industry Expectations
Apr 26, 2024
The construction industry, with its cyclical nature and susceptibility to economic shifts, constantly faces uncertainty. Yet, as we step into the second quarter of 2024,...
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Most Innovative Building Product: Ready Rail Aluminum Railing
Mar 29, 2024
In the realm of building materials, Regal Ideas Aluminum Railings stand out, not merely playing a role but setting the standard for excellence in any railing project....
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Blueprint Basics: Plan, Section & Elevation Drawings
Mar 28, 2024
Understanding architectural design can sometimes seem as complex as cracking a secret code. For those in remodeling, contracting, and home planning, knowing the lingo of...
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The Baltimore Bridge Collapse: Supply Chain Issues Ahead?
Mar 27, 2024
When there's a crisis, it's really important to think about how it affects different businesses. Take the recent bridge collapse in Baltimore, for example. It happened...
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MoistureShield Meridian Decking Review
Feb 29, 2024
It's not every day you come across a decking solution designed with such a blend of artistry and functionality. The Meridian line offers deck boards in 1" x 6"...
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Forget Bigger, Focus on Better: Building the Ideal House in 2024
Feb 28, 2024
As we navigate through a time of digital connection and intentional living, the way we design our homes is evolving dramatically. With each new year, we're on the...
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Ultimate Guide: MASTIC Carvedwood 44 Siding
Jan 30, 2024
Designing and building impressive exteriors is both an art and a science. It requires attention to detail, high-quality materials, and a seamless installation process....
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Top 10 Non-Negotiables for Professional Builders
Jan 29, 2024
Running a successful construction business requires more than just technical know-how and craftsmanship. It also requires strong business knowledge and a commitment to...
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2024 Builder Challenges in Construction
Jan 28, 2024
The construction industry seems to be gearing up for a dynamic year, facing challenges that will test builders nationwide. Based on the January 2024 survey for the...
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Enhanced Home Drafting & Design Services
Dec 29, 2023
Designing and building a home is no small feat, whether you are a professional builder or a homeowner looking to build your dream house. At LS Building Products, we...
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Get Reviews: 5 Steps for Contractors
Dec 28, 2023
In today's digital age, online reviews have become increasingly important for businesses to thrive and grow. For contractors and builders, positive online reviews can...
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2024 Interest Rates & Home Building
Dec 27, 2023
As a professional builder or contractor, keeping your finger on the pulse of the economy is a critical aspect of your business. Interest rates are a significant factor...
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Why Marvin Ultrex Fiberglass Windows Are Superior to Vinyl
Dec 1, 2023
Choosing windows for a construction project can be challenging, even for seasoned builders and contractors. With constant technological advancements, there are now many...
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How to Get Your Residential Construction Business Ready for 2024
Nov 30, 2023
The demand for residential construction continues to grow, and the industry's future looks bright. However, both challenges and opportunities exist, making it essential...
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2024 Economic Outlook for Builders
Nov 29, 2023
As we enter 2024, builders and contractors across the U.S. are wondering what the year will bring for the construction industry. Understanding the economic forecast for...
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The 5 Best Benefits of CertainTeed Landmark Pro Shingles
Aug 31, 2023
In the world of home building, the system you choose for your roofing project is crucial. Whether it's for a new roof or a roof replacement, a high-quality roofing...
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Optimizing Your Contracting Business for Growth & Profitability
Aug 23, 2023
In our first episode of Building Success with LS, Bryce Garber, Director of Marketing for LS Building Products and Brad Betson of The Team Guide, talk about leading...
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The Ultimate Guide to Buying Wholesale Building Supplies
Mar 20, 2023
Whether you’re a professional builder, general contractor, or remodeler, buying building supplies at wholesale prices can offer significant savings and convenience. Not...
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