Clearing up logistical details before work begins will help set customer expectations and avoid surprises based on assumptions.
Strategic Marketing Plans from LOWE'S for Pros. Use our business marketing strategies to stay on budget for your project.
Whether it’s an easy way to boost inquiries or a tip for increased efficiency, contractors share their tips that you can apply to your own business.
By: Sam Barrett - December 2008 -
NewsHome builders from across the nation gather at the 2009 International Builders’ Show to learn more about home building trends and technology, like green building.
3D sketching software makes do-it-yourself CAD concepts easier than ever.
Some contractors have sophisticated ways to inventory job waste and overage to get the biggest bang for their buck. Here are five ways you can do the same.
There are many ways builders and remodelers can redefine their core business in a downturn without sacrificing quality. The solution amounts to a balancing act between expanding into new areas and exploring ways to build on old ones.
Your customers want to go ‘green’ with building projects that help the environment and save costs. But upfront expenses can be significant. Here's how to justify the investment.
Going ‘green’ is admirable, but comes with a pricetag. How to evaluate costs of environmentally sound practices and services so your efforts don’t sink your bottom line.
By: Rob Fanjoy - December 2005 -
NewsWhen the job calls for removal of structural elements, be sure to approach the demolition carefully to avoid injuries or damage to the space.
The current recession has forced business owners to re-evaluate their pricing structure with respect to job estimates and supply expenses. Guidance from experts can provide a blueprint as to how to improve margins.
Sometimes your customer will want to expand up rather than out. As a builder or remodeling contractor, you should know which addition and design (a second story or extra room) is best for the specific home.
Before diving headlong into that home addition project, there are a few things you should know to protect yourself and your client from additional expenses.
The purpose of advanced wall framing and optimum value engineering (OVE) is to engineer the framing/design process in way that significantly reduces the amount of lumber and resources used, resulting in a more eco-friendly home. While many applaud it, however, others believe its difficulty and added expenses can negatively affect a builder’s bottom line. Here are the pros and cons of OVE.
Social media has changed the way companies advertise. Now more than ever, small businesses can promote themselves online by targeting customers and expanding their networks, often for little or no cost.
Advertising is beneficial for your business, but certain forms of advertising, such as spam and pop-ups, may have a negative impact. Dishonest advertising is also harmful.
Find out how you can get involved with building affordable housing, whether it’s through a nonprofit or a for-profit developer.
OSHA requires employers to provide and pay for personal protective equipment that keeps their employees safe. Here’s what builders need to know about PPE.
As a small business owner, it can be easy to get lost in work when trying to ensure the stability of your business. But having a proper work–life balance can be vital to not only your health, but the overall health of your company.
There currently are 40,000 job boards on the Internet, with more to come. Here is advice about how to put them to work for you in your searches for qualified construction and building trade candidates.
Building and remodeling contractors have to have a supervisory role, not that of a buddy to the subcontractors. Here are some tips to handling a promotion to supervisor to ensure changes in the relationships with employees are positive.
Cash flow has been called the lifeblood of business, so follow these tips to keep on the positive side and eventually increase it. Landscaping contractors can keep a steady cash flow by utilizing credit, discounts and contracts, and by planning for the future.
By: LowesForPros Staff - August 2009 -
NewsThe latest news, advice and information from building construction and managment professionals across the United States.
Builders can use software to automate their work orders, purchase orders and payments to their subcontractors. In the process they can reduce cycle time and increase profit margins.
Reduce the chances of an audit by avoiding these typical audit-triggering tax moves.
Estimating your job’s budget requires you to anticipate unexpected costs—like product allowances and material prices—to avoid overruns.
Make sure visitors to work sites follow safety procedures. Accidents can result in expensive lawsuits for personal injury caused by negligence.
Creating a partnership requires blending philosophies, dividing duties and turning cooperation between friends or family into a successful business. Follow these guidelines to avoid problems in the future.
There are many considerations when devising your marketing strategy. It’s easy to make a mistake and head down the wrong path, but it’s never too late to rebound from a failing marketing strategy.
Building trust with a prospect is necessary to get them to hire you. Know what words or phrases may turn them off.
Home builder sales are creeping down, leaving home builders to find new marketing strategies for housing.
The trend toward spa-like features in residential baths continues unabated, but there are some new twists.
Lithium ion and nickel cadmium batteries have become more commonplace for performing residential and commercial jobs. Here’s a primer on selecting the best option for your applications.
Intern and mentoring programs can help a contractor’s business while giving back to the communityc
Remodelers can use industry certifications as credentials to bolster their resumes, and the Green Certified Professional program from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) provides them with a great way to get ahead of a major industry trend: eco-friendly remodeling.
A home-inspection service can supplement income and provide synergy with a construction company’s main line of work.
Benchmarking will help your business improve efficiency, profits and managerial process and facilitate growth by keeping clear goals in mind.
Reduce your tax bill by making wise deductions.
If your contracting shop is ready to take on major construction-industry projects or those for state/local/federal customers, a performance bond is essential. Getting one requires extensive review of your financial grounding and experience.
Referrals—comments by existing customers on your work—can be a contractor’s most powerful business-building tool. The key is harnessing word of mouth marketing by asking for referrals and rewarding customers who offer referrals.
Your business can benefit greatly from Internet search engine optimization (SEO). It can boost your presence Web presence by marketing to those who are searching for services similar to the ones you provide.
Concerns about braced-wall sections of the International Residential Code
A brand is a major differentiator among small business owners in the same industry—it's a way consumers and even competitors identify a business. But creating a solid brand strategy is no easy feat. In part one of a three part series, learn how you can brand your business for success.
After launching your brand, it’s critical for you to differentiate your business from the wealth of competition. Experts weigh in on how to distinguish your core marketing message to ensure an immediate bond with potential customers.
Launching a great brand will fuel a winning success strategy. But you need employees to understand, accept and then effectively promote your vision for the gameplan to work.
Remodelers can boost their business by offering custom cabinetry services.
With the help of Sed de Saber-Construction Edition, your Spanish-speaking workers are empowered to learn English in just four months.
A contractor’s built-in web of association, subcontractor and supplier contacts can be expanded and leveraged to gain referrals that will bring in more business.
Green building is all the rage, but information and substantive knowledge on how to pull off green-building projects is lacking. In this how-to article, learn to use green roofing materials in order to build an environmentally friendly, energy-efficient roof.
A new Lowe's survey reveals the biggest trends in the residential construction market.
Think of a company Intranet as a 21st Century bulletin board, one that can maximize efficiency, increase workflow and unify employee communications. By launching one, you’ll see immediate return on investment, experts say.
Where there's a basement there's moisture. Here's what to know about waterproofing and drainage and how to deal with foundation wall cracks.
The aging baby boomer population has created a new, open market for builders and remodelers. What are these clients looking for—and what can contractors do to best meet their changing needs?
In a struggling housing market, more homeowners are looking for ways to best use and extend their yards and patio space. Builders and remodelers can take advantage of the outdoor living space trend by including outdoor kitchens, grills, fireplaces and stand-alone rooms in their offerings.
Building with propane gas can save your clients money, space and help the environment. Find out how you can implement this clean and efficient energy source in your next job.
Here are a few tips that can help you get better results from your e-mail communications.
Hiring employees who may be called to active military duty is a service to our nation. But contract-shop owners need to be aware of laws that protect these workers’ job rights.
Concrete Staining Techniques at LOWE'S for Pros. Add decorative concrete finishes and concrete stamping to your next remodeling project
Refinishing floors and furniture can be a big boost to your bottom line. But be sure you have mastered the skills involved—from sanding to stripping and staining—before jumping in. Here are some tips.
Online networking is a great tool to find new customers, establish a brand for your business and even recruit new employees and subcontractors.
By: LowesForPros - June 2009 -
News
The Green Building Certification exam established by the International Code Council raises awareness of green building concepts and codes in residential and commercial sectors.
Remodelers face numerous and various challenges on every project, not the least of which is change orders. When clients change their minds mid-stream about critical project elements, it costs remodelers time and money. Here’s how to balance customer demands with profitability in order to minimize the harm that change orders can do
From CAD to niche-specific, today’s design software selections for contractors offer a wide range to choose from.
Builders and remodelers need to be especially discriminating when it comes to job selection during an economic recession or slowdown.
Builders and remodelers can offer added value to homeowners by partnering with closet designers and manufacturers.
Business owners must spend time collecting payments from customers, but knowing a few things about your contract can help ease the payment collection difficulties.
There are numerous mistakes to make when negotiating and drafting a contract. Here are the top mistakes that small businesses make and that you should avoid.
As a small business owner, your community is the lifeblood of your business. Here's how to establish goodwill and gain referral business.
Learn How to Create a Business Competition Plan at LOWE'S for Pros. Get a corporate advantage for your company.
At some point in your business life, you will face conflict in some form. Use these tips as a tutorial to effectively manage any problems that may arise.
Achieve higher profits by delivering better quality work with a companywide commitment to quality. Aim for zero defects on punch lists and watch profits soar.
ConsesusDocs and the AIA have standardized contract forms for contractors and owners, while home builders are forced to tailor contract forms that may not fit their needs.
Many companies have implemented online invoicing and payment solutions. Is this the right step for your business?
Ayude a sus clientes a disminuir sus huellas de carbono con materiales de construcción conciliables con el planeta.
During challenging economic times, companies tend to cut their advertising budgets. Instead, try investing more judiciously to get the reach prospects through various means.
The article’s focus is on providing contractors with a primer on how to manage their fleets economically without compromising quality and effectiveness. Various tips and strategies are outlined to help contractors reduce fuel, insurance and maintenance costs.
Learn About Manufactured Stones at LOWE'S for Pros. This article explains the benefits of using engineered stone counter tops and manufactured stone counter tops.
Contractor Business Plans at LOWE'S for Pros. Want a business plan made easy? Check out our advice on creating a quick, thorough business plan
Knowing your overhead expenses and how much to mark up jobs will determine how successful you are in your business
Here are some tips on how to create and maintain an on-going sales-training program for your employees.
Reward and recognition programs can be a cost-effective and valuable tool to increase employee morale, productivity and revenue while lowering turnover, absenteeism and stress.
Solid financial management skills are a necessity for home builders and remodeler. But having financial crisis management skills can keep you in business and keep employee morale from waning during the critical times.
Health insurance is a big cost to business owners of all kinds. Investigation different plans, like Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Spending Accounts, may be a way to cut some of the costs.
Learn how to create a customer survey or questionnaire that will generate increased response rates, and how to use that feedback for future use in your business. Lowe’s For Pros helps you devise questions that return quality results
Thanks to the recession, cutting costs is necessary, and sales costs are a good place to start. Rather than making cuts across the board, however, builders, remodelers and contractors must carefully analyze their sales pipeline for inefficiencies and opportunities.
Controlling noise and acoustics in the home is becoming more of a priority with today’s homeowners. Here are some techniques and products contractors can use to dampen the noise.
Not every job runs smoothly. But sometimes, it's the customer/client relationship that creates the greatest strain. Manage demanding clients to achieve results.
Building or remodeling contractors often find themselves working long hours day in, day out. Here are eight steps to creating a system in which you can delegate responsibility and earn some time away from work.
Mudrooms are becoming more popular in the home because of their multifunctional uses. Building or remodeling contractors may find an extra niche market by offering to design mudrooms that customers will enjoy passing through every day.
Design Build Insurance from LOWE'S for Pros Articles. With a myriad of design/build considerations, design professional's liability insurance should be at the top of the list.
Key ideas on how to incorporate Universal Design and Aging in Place techniques into every remodeling project.
This press release from DeWALT annnounces the launch of DeWALT's new XRP™ line of lithium ion powered 18V and 12V cordless hamerdrills, drills, and screw drivers.
Online Business Directories Information at LOWE'S for Pros. List your business in online directories and with business directory services.
The Forest Stewardship Council is creating sustainable forests worldwide, producing and certifying sustainable lumber for a growing industry of green builders. Here’s how builders and remodelers alike can benefit from their forest management efforts.
Vacation rentals are a growth industry. Here’s how to break into this niche market through sharp marketing and customer service.
Contractor Business Forms at LOWE'S for Pros. Many free contractor forms, including contractor invoice forms are available here.
Making a capital investment in technology is one that contract shop owners shouldn’t take lightly. Carefully weigh considerations before you buy any hardware or software for your business.
As a contracting business owner, you need to protect yourself against many things, and one of doing so is documenting your workers’ issues—whether related to grievances, discipline or job performance. This could help you should litigation arise against you.
Remodelers who do green renovations should already be marketing the benefits: going green does not always cost more and green renovations can save customers money in the long run. In Part 1 of a two part series, LowesForPros talks to experts about how to find the best materials in green remodeling.
Eco-friendly remodeling doesn’t stop at the type of material a remodeler selects for the job. In part two of a
two part series on eco-friendly remodeling, LowesForPros talks to experts about which products and materials can be used to make for a greener installation.
Customers can be fickle, and doing or saying the wrong thing can mean lost business. Stop yourself from making these eight mistakes, and watch your customer base grow.
Employment Background Checks from LOWE'S for Pros. Using background check companies and criminal record background checks to hire great employees will help your bottom line.
Self-employment tax includes contributions both to Social Security and to Medicare. Be sure to make regular estimated payments, document your deductions, and send a 1099-MISC form to your own contractors.
Paying taxes is an absolute certainty, but there are ways to control your tax liability.
A remodeling project is not only an opportunity to improve or enlarge your client’s space. When you engage in green building, it’s also a chance to save your client money with energy-saving upgrades.
Beginning in January 2006, consumers and businesses that purchase energy-efficient vehicles and appliances can reap benefits.
Practicing good preventive maintenance saves you money and keeps you and your employees safe.
House Mold discussed at LOWE'S For Pros. Educate yourself on toxic black mold and get vital information for mold contractors.
Construction estimating software offers powerful functionality that can improve your bottom line.
When you’re ready to computerize your estimating function, Microsoft Excel is the best place to start. It offers options like spreadsheets and summary and detail sheets to easily categorize the information.
Develop a plan for the new year to ensure that your goals are implemented in your work.
Curb appeal is becoming more important to homeowners. Follow these tips and trends—from porches to siding and materials—for exterior improvements to give your customers an eye-catching façade.
If you are firing an employee, be sure the termination does not constitute any violation of discrimination laws. Hold regular performance reviews and document any warnings for unsatisfactory behavior.
Residential Fences at LOWE'S for Pros. Guides and tips for vinyl fencing and types of fence.
If you do your own taxes and you're not filing electronically, you could be wasting time and money.
When you purchase equipment, you can preserve cash through financing, but there may be interest charges. Banks and vendors offer various rates for loans.
With housing the way it is, finding a partner to help shoulder the load could be a cost-effective way to get more business and build a reputation for customer satisfaction.
Outdoor extensions are growing as prime opportunities for homeowners, and building or remodeling contractors. However, tapping into the added value that sustainability offers presents builders with a new way to find green.
Hiring a lawyer may be one of the most critical business decisions you’ll make. Making sure your attorney has expertise in your areas of need — and is accountable and knowledgeable — is a key evaluation factor
Partnering with a supplier may be one of the most essential decisions you’ll make, when it comes to saving costs and improving customer relations. Here’s how to make the right decision.
Information on Gas Fireplaces from LOWE'S for Pros Articles. Heat up the market with vent free gas logs.
Providing an Estimate for a Customer Shouldn’t Be ‘Guess Work.’ Planning and Research are Needed to Account for All Variables that Could Factor into Cost, Deadlines and Performance.
The housing market is in trouble – but one group of stakeholders known as the Fix housing First Coalition say they know how to fix it.
For contractors who are serious about training and mastering the flooring trade, concrete offers hard, cold cash. Make contacts and avoid common problems related to concrete flooring.
Offer your clients an energy efficient heating solution that will increase their air quality, keep their floors heated and save them money—hydronic radiant floor heating.
As a building or remodeling contractor, your repeat customers are an investment in the future of your business. Employ the right strategies and referral techniques to ensure customer satisfaction.
Automating your processes will optimize efficiency and save you time. Know what your business needs so you can choose the best applications.
Just billing your customers is hard enough, but actually settling their accounts is even harder. Here are some tips for making sure that you both schedule and receive your final payment so that you can finally close the book on your latest job.
Putting together a media plan that targets the best audience can make or break an otherwise great marketing program. And it may not include traditional media.
The world and all it has to offer is available at the click of a mouse. Have you ensured that your business is part of that offering?
Is your equipment and appliances in the home office costing you bottom-line, when it comes to using energy efficiently? There are simple steps to take to go ‘green’ — and save lots of green in the process, in costs.
It's more important than ever to put the power of mobile communications gear to work on job sites.
Several states have Good Samaritan legislation to cover those who respond to natural disasters and other emergencies. What is it and how can it affect your business?
Privacy Fences at LOWE'S for Pros. Enhance your properties with fence building and residential fences
Running an effective Web site for your business requires attention to detail. Focus on creating simplifying, brand-building and bringing customers to the point of sale.
The first installment in a three-part series of sustainable building trends.
The second installment in a three-part series of sustainable building trends.
The third installment in a three-part series of sustainable building trends.
Sustainable design means more than just energy efficiency. Both builders and homeowners need to understand the techniques and technologies of the burgeoning green building market.
Green building is a brighter spot in an otherwise gloomy housing industry. Learn why, and what challenges green building will face during these tough economic times.
The demand for sustainable materials and the popularity of outdoor living areas such as decks has led a growth in “green” decking materials. This article highlights the types of sustainable materials used in building a deck, as well as greener practices that all builders should consder.
From basic bamboo and cork to long-lasting Lyptus and linoleum, contractors are fielding more green flooring requests than ever before. How can you help decide which materials best meet your clients’ needs?
Only about 30 percent of the stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (“ARRA”) has been allocated, but so far none of the funded programs provide for green jobs training specifically targeted toward professional contractors already working in residential home building. That’s likely to change, and future opportunities will add to those that are already in the stimulus package.
No two remodeling jobs are alike, so there’s no stock answer to how to go green with any particular project. Instead, you have to evaluate each job and then use your advanced knowledge of building science, energy efficiency and environmental technologies to make smart recommendations based on your client’s priorities and budget.
Though sustainable roofing materials haven’t made their way into the marketplace just yet, roofing experts share their expertise on how you can construct and maintain an environmentally sound roofing system.
Going green with energy-saving equipment and fleet sounds like a winning gameplan these days. Small business owners need to know what benefits are to be gained — and how to get started.
Home-based renewable-energy systems such as photovoltaic panels and wind turbines are becoming more common, but builders need to begin with an energy-efficient design.
Going ‘green’ can be confusing, what with deceptive advertising and claims on the part of suppliers and marketers accused of ‘greenwashing.’ Take these steps to make sure that your purchases of equipment and products are really environmentally sound.
The outdoor living and consumer electronics industries continue to show strong growth. Electricians and landscapers can take advantage by offering installation of outdoor stereo systems with lighted speakers.
Launching a healthy living and wellness program for your employees isn’t just ‘feel good’ nonsense. It can improve attendance, productivity and other business-focused needs to provide valued return on investment.
Homeowners and professionals benefit from home sealing. Here’s how you can help them get it.
Lowe’s and Wilkes Community College have partnered to offer courses for small business owners.
Building A Cathedral Ceiling from LOWE'S for Pros Articles. Building a vaulted ceiling can add beauty and value to your home.
By: Elizabeth Cotner - November 2009 -
NewsThree high school students with a passion for going green promoted their school’s sustainable facility in a national competition. They not only placed first, but continue to educate others about the importance of renewable energy through their winning Web site.
Although there are fewer of them thanks to the recession, high-end remodels continue to be important projects for contractors who specialize in them, as higher-end projects typically mean more volume, more referrals and, eventually, a bigger bottom line.
Using a professional cleaning crew can add customer satisfaction that pays off in referrals.
By: Hitachi Tools - March 2009 -
NewsHitachi Power Tools today announced its new 10-Year Lithium Ion Tool warranty. Every Hitachi cordless power tool is designed to the highest standards and is rigorously tested for both performance and durability. Hitachi is proud to offer an exclusive 10-year Lithium Ion tool warranty to the original purchaser on HXP Lithium Ion cordless tools.
With technology and efficiency at the forefront of most new homes and remodels, home automation offers builders and remodelers a means of standing out from the crowd.
New construction units range from no-frills to high-end, upscale apartments. Here’s what property managers can do to spice up units.
The often risky venture of buying and selling real estate has long been a means of maximizing profits. However, when an individual has a knack for remodeling, employing proper scouting techniques can result in a storybook flip.
By: Rob Fanjoy - January 2007 -
NewsThe residential construction market has slowed in recent months, as starts, prices and builder confidence fell. However, the current housing cycle is nearing its low point, with an upturn anticipated in the New Year.
Trade shows provide a great marketing opportunity for your contracting business.Develop potential customer contacts and winning results will be your reward.
Everyone involved has an opinion on how to aid the housing industry. Will any of these ideas work to stimulate growth?
You need some forms of technology to sustain your business success. But don’t think that spending for the most-recent advancements is going to take your company to the next level.
When compared to large corporate construction firms, it may seem like smaller companies don’t stand a chance. But when it comes to the residential construction industry, many homeowners are looking for a more personal experience.
A lack of available credit in the market is affecting builders and remodelers in the home building industry as banks restrict their spending.
Contractors who need a loan have a variety of options depending on their situation and need. Follow the tips to choose which is right and how to apply for it.
It’s not that you’re speaking a different language to employees — it’s just that you’re not communicating effectively. Communications specialists suggest some well-planned steps that could close dialogue gaps.
Contractor Contracts at LOWE'S for Pros. Learn useful information on construction lawsuits and general contractor contracts.
As a builder or remodeler, learning to close a deal more effectively while building trust and credibility with the customer will improve your chance of business success. Here are some tips to incorporating sales techniques and getting the client to sign the contract.
There is a proliferation of no-cost and low-cost options for creating your online portfolio. Many applications are available through downloaded programs that allow contractors to post job photos on the Web.
A stop work order is a formal document that lists reasons for terminating a contract. You may be able to mitigate the situation, however, if you communicate and negotiate.
With the economy continuing to suffer and the construction industry still taking a hit, many contractors are looking at diversifying their businesses by offering a wider range of services. Learn how to evaluate diversification strategies and identify the risks and opportunities for you and your business.
Remodeling Old Homes with LOWE'S for Pros. Renovating houses for profit is the game, speculative remodeling is the name
Kitchen Showrooms from LOWE'S for Pros. Learn about showroom designs and bathroom showrooms for your next trade show.
By: N/A - March 2007 -
NewsThe 2007 International Builders Show showcased some of the newest technological products available to builders and contractors. LowesForPros.com highlights a few of those here.
With worksite raids, tough laws and stiff penalties, it’s dangerous to attempt to circumvent current immigration authorization laws. Business owners need to be thorough when it comes to documenting employees.
Don't run yourself ragged every time the phone rings. Here are some ways to temper a hectic schedule with project task management.
Communication between contractors and homeowners typically escalates only when misunderstandings or workmanship problems occur. Project success can improve significantly when contractors take a proactive approach to communication.
For builders and remodelers, purchasing supplies ahead of time or in bulk makes sense for supplies and materials used regularly. However, sometimes ordering in advance or ordering too many supplies may unnecessarily tie up a company’s cash flow and perpetuate wasteful practices. Smart purchasing decisions and strategic procurement practices can help builders free up the cash they need in order to build the bigger bottom line they want.
Infill development can have many advantages to building or remodeling contractors. Not only does it help complete a neighborhood, you can benefit from established infrastructure and reduced environmental impact.
Challenging times require small business owners to come up with innovative ways to save money, grow revenues and boost bottom line. Here are innovations you can use right now.
Wine cellars are the new hot item for many homeowners and buyers. Including these in your business plan can help you boost profits.
With its industry-leading recycled content and high thermal performance, cellulose insulation keeps energy-conscious homeowners happy.
Your employees are your company's greatest asset, so consider investing in opportunities to further their education.
The new flat panel speakers permit homeowners, consumers, decorators,
remodelers, specifiers and professional installers to equip
high-quality, multi-room installations without compromising the
interior design of modern spaces.
The faster you invoice, the quicker you collect. Billing software and new payment tools, such as PayPal, make it easy for a building or remodeling contractor to collect what’s owed promptly.
Thanks to relatively low interest rates, you may be profiting from homes you buy, rehab and resell. Are you ready for the next step?
When considering the switch from traditional phone service to VoIP (voice over internet protocol) service, here are some things to consider.
Safety month is a great time to refresh safety basics. Some important areas for builders/remodelers to consider include fall safety, electrical safety, fume safety and OSHA regulations.
By: LowesForPros Staff - July 2009 -
NewsSummer has arrived, and LowesForPros has over 20 new advice articles that address the most important issues affecting American contractors and building professionals.
Failing to manage time, costs and people can cause construction projects to spin out of control. Here are project management strategies for preventing and treating some of builders’ most common job-site problems.
The best and sometimes easiest sources of revenue come from referrals and former clients—which is why it’s so important for small business owners to stay fresh in their clients’ minds.
It's never too early to think about the future of your company.
Kitchen Design Ideas from LOWE'S for Pros. Get information on kitchen plans and custom kitchens to inspire your designs.
As a contractor, you should know these important legal issues going into the new year.
Setting up a comprehensive schedule of preventive and mechanical maintenance for your heavy equipment fleet can save you a lot of money. It will maximize utilization, minimize field breakdowns and keep you and your operators safe.
Employers and employees are governed by “at will” relationships, which either party can terminate any time, if there is no contract. Employers have many other rights, such as setting regulations in their workplaces and controlling compensation levels.
Thousands of labor laws at the national, state and local level affect builders and remodelers. This article provides a summary of key national labor laws that contractors need to know, including OSHA, Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), and the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986
The EPA’s Lead Paint Rule goes into effect April 2010. How will it affect contractors and their lead-safe work practices?
Most companies embrace some element of the lean philosophy, though the construction industry has been slower to embrace it. The lean philosophy creates value for the customer by eliminating any wasteful activities or materials.
The need for bilingual safety training is greater than ever on today's job site. Here are some online solutions.
As things have gone from bad to worse in the construction industry, builders in particular have borne the brunt of economic decline. Despite this, many builders have managed to survive the downturn and stay in business.
Under recently proposed changes, the U.S. Green Building Council is considering changes to its wood credits, which are good for points toward LEED certification. While only FSC-certified wood currently qualifies for points, opening the credit to other certification systems could give green builders more choices and opportunities in their quest for LEED status.
Builders and remodelers work in a potentially dangerous industry. Life insurance offers a key benefit that provides peace of mind and aids in employee retention.
Implementing an employee suggestion program is one way to motivate your workers, by letting them know their opinions about the business and its operations are valued. Make sure your workers have a collective voice in the company—and then listen to it.
Homeowners are interested in enhancing their homes’ energy efficiency, but are not always willing to pay a lot or sacrifice the appearance of their homes to do so. Interior storm windows are recommended by the Department of Energy as a budget alternative to replacing old single-pane windows with new ones in order to reduce air infiltration and lessen conductive heat loss.
In this ongoing series of podcasts, LowesForPros demystifies green building through interviews with industry experts from the National Association of Home Builders, among others . Learn about topics ranging from site selection to maintaining green buildings and be a part of the sustainability trend that is changing the homebuilding industry.
By: Jenn Danko - April 2009 -
NewsLowe’s and SkillsUSA are offering Community Service and Educational grants for career and technical organizations for the third straight year. The grants are part of a $1.5 million partnership between the two organizations that have resulted in community success stories like the “Little Green House” project.
Get quotes or place orders online at your selected Lowe’s store.
By: Lowe's - December 2007 -
NewsWhat can Lowe’s Special Order Sales do for your Business?
Low-impact development is a good option for builders who want to lower site infrastructure costs, protect the environment, and increase a project’s marketability.
Falling from heights is the leading cause of work-related deaths on construction job sites. Having the right fall protection equipment and policies can help you prevent accidents and keep employees safe.
Residential kitchens are starting to resemble commercial kitchens, with high-tech appliances and multifunctional workstations.
Planning For Home Shows from LOWE'S for Pros Articles. Attend construction trade shows for the latest information and tips in the industry.
With fewer projects on the market and more contactors doing work outside their areas of expertise, many builders and remodelers are feeling pressure when bidding for projects. How can contractors edge out their competition while maintaining market value—and when should they cut their losses?
Creating and implementing changes in a business are important for owners who have fallen behind in earnings, or who want to plan ahead for upcoming months.
As concerns about the economy grow, builders and remodelers are under the gun when it comes to performance. Customers have choices, after all; when you deliver your projects on time, they’ll choose you. Here are tips for staying on track and on schedule.
The main objectives of managing a multicultural workforce include awareness, education and positive recognition of the differences among people in the workplace. Here are several tips for managing a diverse workforce, with an emphasis on language barriers for contractors.
It can take years for small business owners in the residential construction industry to develop a good reputation, but it can take just a few minutes to undo it. Here are tips, tools and tactics for managing your reputation both online and offline.
Contractors that want to improve their job site productivity without hovering over the shoulders of their workers need to consider these tips to make their crews more efficient and productive.
As consumers become increasingly savvy about green practices, they are looking for remodelers who possess real skills and knowledge in this area. But even for the most qualified green remodelers, there are certain marketing strategies that resonate with homeowners.
Marketing to women is an under-utilized tactic for most businesses. But if you want to increase your clientele, it’s important to start paying more attention to the details and creating designs that address the female perspective.
To sell an environmentally friendly home, marketers have to know what appeals to home buyers about going green. Saving the earth is important, but the real clinchers are healthy living and lower bills.
By: Dennis McCafferty - June 2008 -
NewsNatural disasters will increase demand for business. But if your contracting shop is down as well because of a hurricane, fire, ice storm or other crippling event, you could miss out on opportunity to service customers — and, in extreme cases, possibly lose your business
The roofing repair and remodel market has proved quite profitable for many contractors. You may want to consider these services, considering customers always have a need for a revamped roof.
Para vender viviendas respetuosas del medio ambiente, los vendedores deben saber qué es lo que atrae a los compradores inmobiliarios para que adquieran viviendas ecológicas. Salvar la Tierra es importante, pero los verdaderos argumentos decisivos son tener un estilo de vida saludable y reducir el monto de sus facturas.
Putting together a company metrics system may sound overwhelming, but it’s not that difficult. Here’s how to get started.
Homebuilding is expensive. Here are cost-saving strategies that residential building contractors can use in order to find, select and use high-quality, low-cost building materials.
The NAHB Research Center has launched a green certification program for modular homes. This story discusses the ins and outs of the new initiative and how being part of the program can benefit builders.
Because they’re environmentally friendly and cost-effective, natural building materials like adobe and straw are being adapted for use in modern buildings. Here’s what conventional builders need to know about natural building in order to take their green building projects to the next level.
By: Rob Fanjoy - May 2007 -
NewsWhether you choose to build with natural wood, engineered lumber or some sort of composite building material, you should become familiar with their performance characteristics. Each offers its share of features, but there are also limitations for each category.
Household remodeling expenditures have risen steadily over the past few years. So has the number of remodelers. Here's how to stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
New materials that reflect sustainable green practices.
Repair and remodeling contractors may supplement their business revenues by expanding their service into new niches. Other opportunities—handyman services, wine cellars or home inspections—have proven profitable for many.
A dampening housing market can make it difficult to sell your home. But with these tips, it might be easier than you thought.
Build Business Relationships with LOWE'S for Pros. Quality property management is the first step to successfully managing customer relationships.
By: Kevin Day - April 2009 -
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By: Kevin Day - February 2009 -
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By: LowesForPros Staff - June 2009 -
NewsAn overview of all the new content and features available at LowesForPros.com for June 2009.
By: Kevin Day - March 2009 -
NewsNew lowesforpros articles, content and features for March 2009. New features: the New American Home 2009, Audio Podcast Interviews with building industry experts, and a limited time special offer on DEWALT tools.
By: Kevin Day - May 2009 -
NewsAn overview of all the new content and features available at LowesForPros.com for May 2009.
Repair and remodeling contractors may supplement their business revenues by expanding their service into new niches. Other opportunities—handyman services, wine cellars or home inspections—have proven profitable for many.
Repair and remodeling contractors can use their skills to create niches for themselves in educational and training areas. Publishing, seminars and sales are a few ideas that may boost your business’ bottom line.
By: Craig Shutt - December 2005 -
NewsMapping out goals for the new year can help build on success in ways beyond financial plans.
Information on the latest landscape design software and architectural design software.
Using these tips can help make the payment process easier and avoid delays or disruptions
Naturally, your customers will seek to price haggle with you, especially in these economic times. But playing that game can only lead to a big cut on your gross sales, so it’s best to avoid such negotiations.
By: LowesForPros Staff - November 2009 -
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By: LowesForPros Staff - October 2009 -
NewsNew articles, features and special content at LowesForPros.com for October, 2009. October is SAFETY MONTH at Lowe's. Find articles and resources to help you and your crews stay safe on the job.
Homeowners are more concerned today with indoor air quality and healthy homes. By including central vacuum systems in their offerings, builders may be able to boost sales and profits.
Employee benefits may be one of the biggest concerns at your business. But some benefits can be advantageous for both you and the employee, such as offering profit sharing.
Being offsite does not have to spell disaster, it just means that business owners need to pay more attention upfront.
Building to take advantage of solar energy need not cost any more than constructing a comparably sized non-solar conventional home. A home that is properly oriented, tightly constructed, well-insulated, and has operable windows for air circulation is both comfortable for the occupants and easy on the wallet.
Framing with wood is a tried-and-true building technique, but advances in material and technology have added a few new twists. Here’s how to make sure your wood-frame building project meets code and will last for many years.
Small business owners in the construction industry need to make changes during challenging economic times. But with foresight, planning and leadership, these changes impacting employees, customers and suppliers don’t have to damage your long-term vision.
Vacations, funerals and other life events result in staffing shortages. Don’t let customer satisfaction suffer while a star performer is on leave.
Business podcasting is an online marketing tool that offers a powerful way to deliver relevant online content to customers, prospects and search engines.
Keep Health Care Costs Down with LOWE'S for Pros. We'll help you with small business health care and health care business plans.
Coordinating multiple subcontractors for one job can be cumbersome, but there are many steps you can take to ensure a smooth process that produces a project on time and on budget.
The current economy may be in a downturn, but it won’t last forever. Now is the time for business owners to plan and prepare to move their companies into the future.
Keep your business running right even if the economy is wrong.
Small business owners say increasing cash flow is a constant challenge. It requires minimizing expenses while keeping payments coming in — but even in economic times like these, it can be accomplished.
Preventing dampness in the foundation should be a top priority for homebuilders, as moisture can cause humidity, rot and even mold. To keep basements dry, use capillary breaks to block exterior moisture from coming inside the home.
Preventing litigation by your customers should be one of your main concerns, even if you perform the best work. Follow these guidelines to help prepare yourself and business from lawsuits brought on by your customers.
Employee accidents and injuries are a reality of business. But abuse of workers’ compensation plans can drive up your premiums.
Many contractors don't charge enough. Are you one of them? Determining how much to charge is the key to success.
Small innovations, when properly planned, prioritized and implemented on a regular basis, can result in huge efficiencies and cost savings for small businesses in the construction industry—a valued goal in any market climate.
Help your customers take their next “green” step by installing a biomass stove in their home. Learn the basics so you can educate them about what to expect and how much money they’ll save.
Learn the trends that drive consumer demand for extending indoor spaces to outdoor living areas at Lowe’s For Pros. Nearly everything we use to relax, dine and entertain inside can be moved to the backyard, patio or deck.
Using project management tools can make a contractor more competitive by organizing client information, accelerating project scheduling and team communications.
The escalating cost of materials and fuel can take a real bite out of your profits. By working better with your supplier and your clients, you can keep costs down and stay competitive.
Business continuity helps ensure that your business will survive events such as a blackout or hurricane.
Business Disaster Recovery at LOWE'S for Pros. Be prepared for the worst with a complete business disaster plan and disaster recovery emergency procedures
The Internet makes it possible for your business to reach people all over the world—let alone the country. But it also lets those same people reach you, and you need to protect against business information security threats via spam and phishing.
Planning for all contingencies is crucial to keeping your business up and running. A business-continuity plan can help your company recover even a serious interruption.
Protect your customers’ confidentiality and sensitive data with computer passwords and paper shredders. If privacy is compromised or security is breached, you must provide notification
Estimating Construction Costs with LOWE'S for Pros. Estimating new home construction costs and residential construction costs is easy if you follow a few simple steps.
Protect payment information and confidential customer databases. Guard your privacy from hackers and theft by shredding, using passwords and restricting access to information.
Lead paint still is a hazard in many homes. Building and remodeling contractors need to educate and protect themselves—and their customers—when working on or in homes built before 1978.
Turning over day-to-day decision making to an on-site leader provides advantages to contractors and customers. Here's how to start.
Committing to environmentally friendly business practices is commendable and potentially profitable. But unless you get a sense of the waste inventory that your business creates, your efforts may fail.
Reduce your insurance costs by avoiding duplication or gaps in your policies. Savings on OCIP premiums particularly help to lower expenses.
Today, more than ever, contractors need to upgrade their Web sites for a better image and to generate more traffic. Here are some tips to help you take the plunge.
With the housing crisis in full swing, many homeowners are staying in their homes, remodeling them instead of selling them. That’s good news for remodelers, who can count on these recession-proof remodeling projects to sustain their business during the downturn.
Help your customers help the environment by reducing their energy use through simple fixes to their home.
There are plenty of things you can do to reduce your tax liability now.
Know what you’re getting into before making the leap into bigger remodeling jobs. Changing your business model requires serious consideration.
Help your client bring the past to the present by understanding the significance, structure and details of a historic space.
With the recession in full swing, remodelers everywhere are feeling the pinch as consumers cut back on large-scale home renovations. But certain trends can turn into popular projects for contractors looking to ride out the downturn.
The economy has gone from bad to worse, and it is quite clear—for builders at least—that sitting on their hands or feeling despondent will not achieve anything. This article provides builders with actionable information that they can use to tweak/modify their existing processes, products and practices in order to maximize their efficiency, productivity and return from each job.
Builders can save money, prevent waste and appeal to environmentally conscious homeowners when they reuse and recycle common job site materials.
A team's motivation and drive can ultimately determine the success of a business. Business owners need to understand how to delegate and give their teams increased responsibilities so that the natural leaders can start to make themselves known.
Any job that puts a worker at risk of injury opens up risks for the contractor, as well. Learning to manage your risk is important to protecting your company.
To safely demolish a building, have a proper plan and use the right equipment. Learn to control potential safety hazards to protect your workers and your business.
Maintaining a safe work environment can have a big impact on your profit. Read about the link between your business’s safety record and its financial viability.
It is critical that your employees be safe when on the job. Teach them the basics so they can avoid injuries and you can keep related costs down.
Safety In English Spanish Workplace from LOWE'S for Pros. Keep everyone safe with spanish safety posters and landscape safety.
Now that the housing boom isn’t booming, relationships between contractors and customers may be more strained. Here are strategies to help contractors smooth over conflicts, keep customers happy and hold deals together.
House Framing at LOWE'S for Pros. Helpful information on house framing techniques and house framing tips.
City building departments are adopting Web-based technologies to provide online services for busy contractors.
Keeping your tools in safe, working order doesn’t take much, but many building and remodeling contractors don’t take the time to save on their tool costs.
Placing concrete in cold weather is possible, but it takes extra effort and equipment. Learn how to more efficiently use your cement, as well as admixtures, aggregators and plasticizers to prevent cracks from killing your concrete
Credit markets are tight, and lenders are extremely sensitive to any volatility. This article will help builders and remodelers present a positive picture, in order to secure financing, renegotiate loans and identify what they will need to be successful.
Contractors can improve their marketing investment if they create a catchy and distinctive message that conveys their competitive advantage
By: LowesForPros Staff - September 2009 -
News
While customer service is key to showing prospective and current customers how seriously you take their business, etiquette for service calls is often neglected. Here are some do’s and don’ts to improve customer satisfaction.
Service contracts offer coverage for repairs and check ups, beyond a manufacturer’s warranty. The document should include language that limits obligations for abuse and references deductibles.
For contract-shop owners nearing retirement, knowing when and how to effectively step down and defer to new business leadership can be the greatest challenge. But a succession plan doesn’t have to be the end of your company’s future, experts say.
Green-design options exist in all categories of building siding, from vinyl to fiber cement board. Choosing which one is right for your sustainable project just requires a little homework.
Debt can help a business thrive, or it can cripple its future. Effective management of debt is less of a challenge when you avoid classic mistakes.
Choosing the right site for a green building project is just as important as material selection.
Today’s market climate calls for contractors to be more mindful than ever before of their clients’ needs. Strengthen your professional relationships—and ultimately, your financial future—by earning clients’ trust and respect for the long haul.
Modern-day decks, patios and porches are all about bringing the indoors outside. Here are the latest trends in deck and porch design that you need to know in order to wow your customers.
By: Elizabeth Cotner - October 2009 -
NewsLowe’s is a proud sponsor of SkillsUSA and the anchor sponsor of the SkillsUSA WorldTeam, a program that helps high school and college students pursue careers in trade, technical and service occupations. Lowe's Companies Inc. sponsored the team through a grant from the Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation.
Tax season is creeping up, and there are numerous ways in which you can save money and get the most out of your returns. Here are a few—including real estate, leasing and employees—to get you started.
Builders and remodeling contractors can start a showroom and design center that can help engage customers. Allowing them to experience the products and supplies firsthand is an excellent sales tool.
The recession is taking its toll on almost every facet of the construction and housing industries, with many businesses, including crucial suppliers, closing up shop for good. Learn to look for the warning signs and what to do so your business isn't left in a pinch.
By: LowesForPros - July 2009 -
News
Stocking your vehicle with all the right tools and equipment you will need for a given job will boost your productivity. Here are some things to consider when getting ready to head out to the job site.
Companies that engage in strategic planning are typically more organized and more profitable than companies that don’t. Builders who work on a whim should therefore change their ways and build a strategic plan that focuses on long-term goals and growth.
Now that the economy is officially in a recession, times are tough for builders in the residential construction industry, but going out of business isn’t inevitable Learn how to adapt and survive.
Incorporating green building practices could be one way to keep your business’ finances in the black. Investing some time now to learn more about sustainable design could be a valuable contributor to your future success.
Beyond numerous other selling features, homes exuding character, usually through the duplication of vintage design tactics are quickly becoming the trendy selection, especially in competitive markets.
Delegating tasks in a small business can be difficult, especially when you’re the one running the show. Learn how to balance staying involved in all facets of your business, while taking a more hands-off approach with your employees.
Contractor Tax Deductions Help at LOWE'S for Pros. Learn to use tax incentives and energy tax incentives to your advantage
By: Lowe's - November 2007 -
NewsHelp your Hispanic workers learn English in as few as five months with Sed de Saber-Construction Edition. Breaking the language barrier could lead to better quality building.
Know what to look for before investing in a fixer-upper and know what to change to get the largest profit possible.
Be cautious taking over jobs started by others – know your liability and profitability before saying “yes.” Check references on the customer and use video to document the state of the project before commencing work.
Tapping into government financing is not about the size of the company or who the owners know. Instead, it tends to focus on the level of dedication and the willingness to jump through the hoops.
Contractors may want to diversify their offerings to include a siding division. Here’s how to study the market, develop a sound business plan and break into this potentially profitable niche.
When tax time comes around, should you hire a CPA or use tax software? Which method provides you with the best tax savings?
Considerable tax savings may be found in an independent contractor’s equipment shed, or within his or her family. Take advantage of IRS-approved procedures and practices that can reduce your tax burden.
Builders need to emphasize marketing to survive in today’s market. Here are 10 tips
By: Steve Hendershot - July 2009 -
NewsThe Obama administration’s stimulus package and budget appropriates lots of money toward green building and remodeling. Could your business take advantage?
By: Steve Hendershot - June 2009 -
NewsThe stimulus package includes tax incentives for first-time home buyers as well as homeowners who want to make their properties more energy efficient. The government is giving a powerful sales tool to builders and remodelers who incorporate the tax credits into their sales pitches.
These are tough times for remodelers. One bright spot is the extension of the IRS Section 25C tax credit for existing homes. Smart remodelers can take advantage of the credit by educating clients on how use of “green” remodeling products can help them save money—at tax time, and all year long.
Contractors should perfect their negotiating styles to realize optimum profitability, as well as determine their scheduling, pricing and payment scheduling.
Keeping a job site safe, and within the requirements mandated by OSHA, requires constant vigilance and awareness of the specific areas that are presenting challenges to builders.
Running a business in a matter of disarray can make the year-end accounting process a true nightmare, let alone knowing where your business stands month-to-month. Fortunately, by embracing a centralized account methodology, the benefits of organization can reap rewards.
Fleet card programs offer management and cost controls for fleet fuel and maintenance.
Despite a surge of innovative new building materials on the market, wood frame construction is still the most widely used building technique in residential construction. So before you trade wood for alternative materials, consider the benefits it offers to both homebuilders and homeowners.
When preparing a house for a project, the remodeling industry standard is to toss waste into a dumpster, and haul the containers to the nearest landfill. But a better environmental alternative is emerging—deconstruction, the process of removing items from the building that can be salvaged or donated.
By: Craig A. Shutt - October 2005 -
NewsAbout Professional Home Inspectors at LOWE'S for Pros. Learn to use the information from code inspectors and building inspections to your advantage.
Value the service you provide by mastering how to run a business and succeeding beyond your expectations.
Building and remodeling contractors can benefit greatly from adding gas-filled windows to their offerings and services. Being prepared to answer customers’ questions about these energy-efficient products can help upsell customers.
Nothing says Americana like a front porch. With today's high-tech comforts, these cozy retreats are giving homeowners more than a social connection to their world.
For remodelers and other building contractors, opportunity is ripe when it cones to garage remodeling and renovation.
Eminent domain can work for or against builders or developers, so knowing specific state plans can be a key advantage.
Quality customer service is often key to a healthy, profitable business since it can often make or break a client relationship. When employees have direct, daily contact with customers, it is imperative they acquire the necessary customer service skills to work with clients effectively.
Contract-shop owners now face more regulation, laws and enforcement from the federal government when it comes to reporting earnings and paying taxes. But guidelines and best practices can reduce fears of the IRS.
By: Vanessa Drucker - January 2007 -
NewsThe Job Creation and Worker Assistance Act of 2002 contained a few provisions that still remain in effect. Important business deductions include equipment expensing, domestic manufacturing and limits for SUV purchases.
From flame retardant roofs to electrical fire prevention, builders and remodelers are implementing effective ways to make homes more fire resistant. What are the best bet tactics for contractors?
With more Americans spending their time indoors engrossed in media rooms, home offices and playrooms, homeowners are interested in reducing the noise levels within the home and increasing their sense of privacy. Builders and remodelers can use this to their advantage by marketing sound-reducing building materials and techniques to keep the noise level down in homes.
Tools both handheld and electronic are essential to serving the needs of your customers. Don’t go with outdated products that will only slow down work projects
Basement remodeling projects can create much-needed living area for space-crunched customers. Completing these jobs successfully requires builders to understand what makes a basement a good remodeling candidate and the architectural approaches that can turn a cave-like space into a cocoon.
Building a house with concrete may be slightly more expensive, but the benefits of concrete vs. wood dramatically offset the added costs.
By: Michael Foreman - March 2009 -
NewsSponsored by
Lowe's and the NCHI, the NAHB unveiled TNAH 2009 at the International Builders’ Show. The model home features energy efficient design and sustainable materials like Photovoltaics and ICFs.
Learn About Closet Organizers at LOWE'S for Pros. Organize your homes with storage containers and other storage solutions before you bring them to market.
Use these tips and see your company's name featured in local media.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, employees who use drugs have a higher rate of incidences and thus endanger the liability of your company while reducing profit margins. Drug testing can prevent such liabilities, but is it right for your company?
Before purchasing a contracting software, make sure it is customized to fit your company’s needs. Following these tips can help you choose a user-friendly program that simplifies your tasks.
In a tough economy, self-employment might be the best option. The clients are your own, but owning a small business means knowing how secure new projects.
By: J.D. Piland - November 2007 -
NewsTeardowns, and the resulting redevelopment, bring with them controversy. Builders should know the benefits before deciding to demolish an existing home in favor of a new one; otherwise, you’ll have a lot of opposition to your work.
Floor Tile at LOWE'S for Pros. Learn about trends in tile and when to use vitreous tile
By: Chuck Ross - October 2006 -
NewsThere’s a big market for installing and maintaining gutters and gutter covers, along with downspouts, but the competition is stiff, so good business sense is required for success.
The 2009 housing market is struggling, as the industry continues to feel the effects of the financial crisis making the year ahead for homebuilders a difficult, but not impossible, one.
Spending time upfront to create a solid project plan can pay big dividends once work begins. And tracking your project’s progress is critical to ensuring work stays on schedule.
Customer service will improve if contractors exceed client expectations, communicate clearly, remain responsive to complaints and questions, clean up each day, provide extra little thanks yous and offer other touches that stand out.
The housing market, credit crunch, gas prices and consumer confidence are all painting a frightening picture. But contractors who survive these economic challenges often come out stronger.
One way for contractors to stay competitive is to make sure that they come up with competitive bids and refine their bidding process in order to make the best impression on prospective clients.
Insurance policies for tools and equipments provide coverage and protection against damage. Accidents and theft can add up to substantial losses for contractors.
Green building in general exploded in popularity in 2008. In 2009, these top trends, including tools, tactics and techniques, will further shape the green building segment in 2009, defining it for a growing population of sustainable builders in residential and commercial construction alike.
Leading Economic Indicators in LOWE'S for Pros articles. Build business by watching construction trends and home building trends in your area.
As an employer, you have the legal right to monitor, block or regulate your employees’ Internet surfing and email activity. Take action to protect your computer systems and avoid security risks.
Getting new hires off on the right foot ensures they act safely on the site and enhances customer satisfaction.
By capitalizing on glass-intensive designs, daylighting opens homes to natural light that can help reduce energy bills, improve views and enhance moods. Here’s how to take advantage of this growing trend.
Is the equipment your crews use on the job rusting, cracking, fraying or otherwise in noisy, unattractive and badly performing condition? Make a better impression and turnover projects faster by launching a preventative maintenance program
Making the most out of a call to a prospective customer means landing a sale. You need to develop a systemic culture of best practices to get business commitments from interested parties.
Meeting customer needs is crucial in this competitive economy, but business owners need to make sure they don’t get dragged down by overly demanding clients with unreasonable expectations.
Thanks to tech tools and best practices out there, it’s no longer a mystery to assess your return on investment when it comes to Web-based advertising and promotion.
Your company’s computer system helps you do things faster and more efficiently, but it also can be a liability. Follow these guidelines to gain some insights on computer updates, security and how you can set them to some work for you.
A preparation checklist can avert rude welcomes at client sites. Here’s a checklist so you can ensure everything is in place for a productive project kickoff.
Residential contractors can adapt their skills to handle commercial projects
Using background check software to get a history of your potential employees can help you make the right decisions when hiring.
Using recycled construction materials, including wood and cement, on the job site has become a common practice for good reason—recycling reduces the amount of construction waste going into landfills and can help companies’ bottom lines.
There are many benefits to a local chamber of commerce membership. But making a commitment to being an active member can take your business from a listing on a page to a player in the community.
Wheel Chair Accessible Floor Plans at LOWE'S for Pros. Get an edge on the competition with universal designs and handicap bathroom designs.
Use your Web site to build your customer base.
Use these key ingredients to make your business plan attractive enough for a banker to lend you start-up money
Insulated concrete forms (ICF) have benefits for homeowners such as energy efficiency. But what are the financial incentives for contractors to adopt this alternative building method in their business plan?
When it comes to getting your home certified green, there are several different shades. We introduce you to the leading programs, LEED for Homes and the NAHB Green Building Program.
By: Craig A. Shutt - July 2005 -
NewsAging In Place at LOWE'S for Pros. Useful information on NAHB and aging at home.
Radon is a soil gas that can not only affect indoor air quality, but it is also a known carcinogen that can cause lung cancer in humans. Builders can use radon-resistant construction techniques and mitigation systems to make sure their clients’ homes are healthy.
By: Lowe's - December 2006 -
NewsLowesForPros.com has made a lot of headway in catering to the industry contractors. Here’s a brief look at some of the new features that have been accessed by builders, landscapers, electricians, property owners and plumbers, alike.
By: Craig A. Shutt - January 2006 -
NewsOn-the-job problems happen to everyone. The key to keeping customers satisfied lies in how these concerns are handled.
A builder or remodeling contractor needs to have an ever-changing business philosophy to maintain growth. Following trends and analyzing your current processes can help you decided when to expand your business.
Selling your contracting business can be a tough decision, but sometimes it’s the best option. Follow these guidelines so you can determine if it’s time.
By: Craig A. Shutt - April 2006 -
NewsNetworking and continuing education lead the list, but there are other reasons why membership pays off.
Window technology and design have advanced significantly over recent years. Now you can combine energy efficiency and cutting edge design in any room.
Use these maintenance suggestions, and you can avoid costly repairs from damage and reduce your energy costs.
You can keep your business thriving just by working on retainer. You can take advantage of the constant work orders while continuing to plan for that next big contract.
Find the marketing firm that gives you the service that you need.
Working in the winter presents unique challenges for contractors, who risk injury during the winter months at the hands of slippery ice, deep snow and freezing temperatures, which can cause everything from dangerous falls to severe frostbite. In part one of a two-part series, consider these safety tips for working in the winter to stay warm and healthy.
Thanks to seasonal snow, frost and shorter days, builders often face many obstacles when the weather takes a toll on workers, job sites and schedules. In part two of a
two-part series, consider these winter-weather tips for addressing the season’s biggest building challenges to keep your people and your projects going all season long.
Finding the right civil engineer can ensure a project stays on track.
Learn more about the dangers of termite damage and what to do about it.
Contractors can build their brand and their business by starting and maintaining blogs.
http://www.lowesforpros.com/viewArticle.cfm?articleID=485 45 Article 8/14/06 http://lowesforpros.com/images/articles/0806repair_housing.jpg Feature Builders/Remodelers N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Young Adult Housing Trends Today’s young homeowners are flexing their purchasing power when it comes to home remodeling. Here are some things to consider when attempting to tap that demographic.
Builders may want to adopt open-book pricing models that break out their overhead and other costs as opposed to showing (or not showing) a simple gross profit margin. By being able to examine line item expenses, customers will understand what goes into good service and won’t begrudge you a decent profit.
By: Your Local Independent Contractor and Lowe's - May 2009 -
How To Articles
By: Your Local Independent Contractor and Lowe's - October 2009 -
How To Articles
By: Your Local Independent Contractor and Lowe's - August 2009 -
How To Articles
By: Your Local Independent Contractor and LowesForPros - July 2009 -
How To Articles
By: Your Local Independent Contractor and Lowe's - September 2009 -
How To Articles
By: Your Local Independent Contractor and Lowe's - November 2009 -
How To Articles
Taking a side on political debates can be beneficial for your company—but it can backfire if not done correctly. Follow these tips so you know how to get involved without creating a political backlash against your business.
With a troubled economy, ‘more with less’ is the company mantra these days. By implementing simple steps, however, contract shop owners can get the most productivity out of existing staffing resources without making a major investment.
