Construction Industry Data and Trends

At L.E. Smith, we are always keeping an eye on industry trends and marketing solutions that may impact you, our valued clients and partners in the construction field. Recently, we came across some information that we believe is worth sharing. Oldcastle Building Solutions has been providing industry insights to the construction community for nearly 80 years. Their team of experts compile a biweekly, comprehensive report that helps companies in the construction industry better understand current trends and make preparations for future projections. Plan Ahead The report posted below is from February 2nd and highlights data that reflects a decline in the construction…

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For the Love of Laminate: Eco-Friendly Countertops That Are Easy on...

In the past, laminate countertops have been given some unfair abuse. You’ve seen the retro countertops that were very grandma’s-house-in-the-50s-esque. That’s understandable, but the designs of old have long since evolved. Your customers might be holding on to conjured images of ugly countertops and passing on an opportunity that’s well designed, environmentally conscious, inexpensive, and beautiful. Let’s take a look at the lauds of laminate countertops. Banish Those Old Memories This isn’t grandma’s house anymore. The unsightly countertops of days long passed have changed a great deal. Leaving behind gaudy colors, well-designed laminate countertops look like polished wood or stone for a…

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Everything You Need to Know About Eco-Friendly Countertops

It’s no secret that the world wants to be more eco-friendly. Green initiatives have made their way into retail, industrial, and residential spheres. But they’ve also entered a new arena recently: your kitchen. If you’re sitting at home wondering how to choose the right countertops for your kitchen renovation, eco-friendly countertops might be a good way to go. Not sure what eco-friendly countertops are all about? You’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about selecting these types of countertops. What makes a countertop eco-friendly? The answer to this question may depend on…

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3 Ways to Spice Up Your Kitchen For Winter

On average, homeowners spend $2,912 installing countertops during home renovations. However, that number can vary depending on the quality of materials and size of the countertop. While people have different sized spaces in which they will be able to install kitchen countertops, many have the same end goal: They want their kitchen to look good. Even though winter is here, that doesn’t mean it’s not the perfect time for a kitchen remodel. With so many new home design trends to choose from, it may be hard to choose just one. Let’s take a look at a few of the latest winter…

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2018 Commercial Construction Projections: Modest 4.0% Growth Expected

Heading into 2017, many commercial construction companies were riding a wave of optimism, and the projections for the year looked rosy. And while the industrial and commercial construction sector is projected to keep growing in 2018, the pace of that growth will most likely be slower than it was in either 2017 or 2016. According to the American Institute of Architects, 2016 ended with strong growth in nonresidential building sector and commercial construction. Plus, the president elect was promising to cut taxes, repeal the Affordable Care Act, and pass a $1 trilling infrastructure package that would pump record amounts of money…

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A Brief Guide To Solid Surface Vs. Quartz Countertops

With so many countertop options on the market, it’s understandable that many homeowners (and even some contractors) might not always know which will work best for a given project. With so many advancements made in quality countertops over the past few years, your clients may not even know the differences between some of the most popular types of countertops. Today, we’re comparing solid surface versus quartz countertops. We hope this information will help when it comes time to make a materials decision with your quartz countertop distributors. Solid Surface Countertops You may know this type of countertop under a different…

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Trend Talk: What’s New For Kitchens And Bathrooms In 2018

November may have just begun, but designers, retailers, and homeowners are already looking ahead to the new year and what it may bring in terms of decorating trends. The fact is that what may have been popular in 2016 or 2017 may not keep its popularity in 2018. To that end, we’re sharing some of our top kitchen and bathroom design trends for next year and giving you an exclusive sneak peek of what you can expect. Quartz, Of Course A recent National Association of Home Builders survey shows that 69% of requested remodeling jobs centered around the kitchen. That’s…

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Beyond White And Gray: 3 Colorful Countertops To Consider For The...

The average U.S. kitchen has approximately 25 feet of counter space. While that may not sound like a lot, the truth is that a client’s choice in countertop materials and colors can make a huge difference. In recent years, neutrals have been the go-to for quartz and laminate countertops alike, due to their universal appeal. But even though these hues won’t be likely to offend, they can be a bit boring to some. If you’re working with a client who wants something bolder, these three suggestions may hold the key to an exciting design concept they’ll love. Bright laminate countertops…

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Interested In The Trades Or Manufacturing? Check Out These...

Here at LE Smith, we want the manufacturing and skilled trades to experience continued growth. Since homeowners spend an average of $2,912 on installing countertops alone, we know how important it is that laminate countertop manufacturers across the country have qualified employees within their ranks. Whether you’re interested in working with countertop builders in the future or see yourself involved in some other type of manufacturing or skilled trade, here are some scholarships you may want to know more about. mikeroweWORKS Foundation Scholarships Dirty Jobs host Mike Rowe founded his 501(c)(3) public charity to give back to those who pursue training…

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3 Amazing Apps And Tools Every Kitchen Designer Should Be Using

Most homeowners understand how important a functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen is to their daily lives and to the overall value of their home. After all, even a minor kitchen remodel has an average ROI of 82.7%. When homeowners want to conduct a remodel but aren’t sure where to start, they’ll often rely on their contractor or interior designer to create a concept they’ll love. But even professionals who work with the best countertop manufacturers and other industry leaders often need a bit of assistance to bring their ideas to life. In the digital age, most people will rely on…

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