Diary of a Drywaller, 1968–2018

We are going to cover an abbreviated version of 50 years. Fifty years of lessons learned, failures and accomplishments. Some may find this article in large part a rehashing of my last two articles; I will concede to that. However, it is not without merit, and there is a method to my madness. I can […]

The Time Capsule—Preparing for AWCI’s Bicentennial in 2118

How would you like to send a message to the future you that is read 100 years from now?      That’s the question members of the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry face as they prepare to fill a time capsule in celebration of AWCI’s 100th anniversary. If you could leave behind a […]

Are You Ready for the Latest Innovations?

I realized the other day that I have no need to wear a wristwatch. I’ve been wearing one for decades, and I’ve accumulated a rather nice collection of watches over the years. Like eyeglasses, I look at watches as stylish accessories.      In the last few years, some people have asked why I still […]

An Eighty-Eight Percent Day in the Life

I’m emphatic: Jobsite walks should be mandatory for every estimator. In fact, each bidmeister should be required to perform one at least once a month, if not more often. A regular hike through the work-in-progress provides multiple benefits and unexpected rewards. It affords insight into how a quantifier’s abstract work translates in the concrete world […]

GMS Expands Footprint in Western Pennsylvania

GMS Inc., a North American distributor of gypsum wallboard and suspended ceiling systems, has acquired substantially all of the operating assets of Washington Builder’s Supply Company located in Meadow Lands, Pa., approximately 25 miles southwest of Pittsburgh.      WBS has been in business since 1988 and will join Ohio Valley Drywall Supply, a GMS […]

3-D Printed Walls

One year ago in Russia, Apis Cor “3-D printed” an entire house and painted the interior in 24 hours. A giant robotic arm poured concrete mixed with fibers and additives to form load-bearing walls. It’s only 400 square feet in size, but the house has a hallway, bathroom, living room and kitchen. Cost: $10,134.    […]

GCs Open Up

I hope you will enjoy our November issue, which has a focus on general contractors. GCs have always been a hot topic, so we decided to revisit the topic since it has been a while. In the article that starts on page 28, you’ll learn that the GCs we interviewed were more than willing to […]

Random Orbit Sander

Porter-Cable® announces the launch of the 20V MAX 5" Random Orbit Sander (PCCW205B). Sold as a bare too, this new sander is an extension of the Porter-Cable 20V MAX System, a range cordless tools created for professionals working in residential construction. This new sander helps users remove old material, like paint and varnish, fast.    […]

VIPERSTUD® Brand to Be Manufactured in Canada

MarinoWARE® and CEMCO® have announced a strategic manufacturing agreement allowing for the sublicensed manufacturing of the ViperStud® Drywall Framing System to Fusion BP and Imperial Manufacturing Group in Canada.      This venture is scheduled for launch in 2018. ViperStud is a brand that has been present in the North American market for over a […]