The aging workforce as well as do-it-yourself social media consumers are ushering in a level of incompetence not seen before in the construction industry. I know that sounds harsh, but if they are being honest, owners of most construction companies will say the same thing.
Just about every mill, manufacturer, fabricator, and distributor in the construction supply sector is announcing a price increase for the upcoming year. One of the main reasons cited is an increase in delivery and logistic expenses. Delivery expenses could add one percent in real inflation to the sector as providers struggle with managing costs as well as increased delivery expectations.
The costliest part of most construction projects is the waste that occurs on the jobsite from theft, poor cleanliness and workers’ disregard for supplies on the project. It is hysterical how construction project owners will chase the absolute lowest price on a 2-by-4 stud, then lose it tenfold because of poor jobsite management.
When I first started in the building supply business 35 years ago, one of my first great customers was a wonderful Catholic pipefitter who had nine children. As you can imagine, money was tight in a family that size. The main reason I remember this customer so vividly is that every time he entered the lumberyard he would ask, “What deals do you have today?” He understood that it was not uncommon for builders and homeowners to make mistakes when ordering doors, windows, and building supplies. Many times, these products would end up in the bargain bins of the store. It took several years, but this customer eventually built a beautiful home that housed his wonderful family for about a third of the cost of a new home.
Whether you’re a first-time DIYer or a home improvement expert, there are a variety of projects that can significantly change your home’s value and appearance for the better—big or small. The problem, however, is figuring out which ones should be the priority projects and which should be the ones to put off until another time.