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Why Drywall is More Popular than Plaster in the 21st Century

In every construction project that requires new or upgraded walls, the decision between drywall and plaster must be made. However, in today’s world, it’s a no brainer – drywall always wins. Between the two is amazing history regarding how our world has used them in past centuries, as well as how they differ to bring different design ideas to life. ...
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The Basics of Concrete – the Most Popular Man-Made Material

Quite literally, since the beginning of human civilization, concrete has been used for building. The Pyramids of Giza were built around 3,000BC. Holding the blocks together are a mortar made from gypsum and lime that hardened like modern day concrete. The Colosseum and Pantheon in Rome, Italy also used concrete-like mortar by mixing fine volcanic ash and clay with similar ...
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How Casino Designs Make You Spend More Without You Knowing

Building casinos from the ground up or simply constructing hotel additions can be extremely costly. They’re always updating their décor, hotel rooms, and gaming floors to consistently appease players and hotel guests, which can lead to major pay outs from the owners. Many casinos double as a hotel, which alone cost on average $23 million for 155 rooms with full ...
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Build With Us: St. Johns Animal Clinic

In June, we completed the renovations and additions for the St. Johns Animal Clinic! This project consisted of multiple additions, installing uncommon equipment, and improving the layout of the entire building! The building was originally built in the 70's and has received minimal renovations throughout the years. This project was the largest renovation of the building, and ultimately the best ...
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Build With Us: G.A.R. Island Park

Another completed project is in the books this month! We officially completed the improvements and upgrades for the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) Park in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. This island already has an impressive history before we had the amazing opportunity to bring it back to life! In 1872, the island was owned by J.D. McAuliffe, and was much ...
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Why Log Cabin Construction Isn’t as Simple as It Looks

On this day, 383 years ago, America’s first log cabin was constructed in Wilmington, Delaware at Fort Christine. Following the immigration of Swedes and Finns, and the purchase treaty with the Native Lenape tribe, they built a fort with two log cabins inside. As more European immigrants made their way over the pond, colonies began using this building method, and ...
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The Construction Industry is Making Big Moves!

Being able to lift a whole building and relocate it with very little to no damage is as astonishing as it is unbelievable. ‘Structural relocation’ came about in the 1700’s when people would move their homes with horses or oxen, however, the buildings would be damaged in the first few yards with chimneys collapsing due to poor structure bracing. With ...
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Warm Up Your Brain with 5 Solutions to Avoid Heat Stress

Every year, the last Friday  of May is recognized at National Heat Awareness Day, which is today! With the weather improving, exterior renovations and projects can begin full force. However, that doesn’t mean that weather hazards are not present. While freezing temperatures can cause frostbite, hypothermia, and other physical hinderances, so can the other end of the spectrum - extreme ...
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Read Em and Not Weep – Understanding and Identifying Hazard Signs

With summer only one month away, construction projects are starting to pick up and begin! Even if you’re not a construction worker, there are many areas and potential hazards to be aware of if you’re in the vicinity of a job site. There are many signs and barricades located around sites that prevent the public from accessing the area under ...
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What’s the Difference Between General Contractor and Construction Management?

This week, we were involved with two exciting events! We started the process of beginning renovations for Woodcreek Elementary as a Construction Manager, and some members of our staff attended the Building Better Futures Career Event for Holt Public Schools! At the event, we had the opportunity to listen to successful trades workers on what the industry is like and ...