Blog & News

Stay up-to-date on the latest from The Builders Association.

Three men wearing hard hats smiling at plans

How Rising Material Costs Are Shaping Commercial Construction Bids in 2026

If you’ve requested a commercial construction bid recently and been surprised by the number, you’re not alone. Material pricing in 2026 has become more unpredictable than in years past, and that volatility is showing up directly in the bids business owners receive. Understanding what’s driving these changes and how to

Construction site with building materials laid out

Understanding the Commercial Permitting Process in Eastern Ohio and Western PA

Every commercial construction project, whether it’s a new build, an expansion, or a major renovation, has to clear one hurdle before the first shovel hits the ground: permitting. For business owners unfamiliar with the process, permitting can feel like a maze of paperwork, inspections, and unfamiliar terminology. But understanding what

Air conditioning and ventilation system work, duct pipes covered with moisture-proof insulation

How to Find The Right Aluminum Manufacturer For Commercial Projects 

Aluminum is everywhere in commercial construction, from curtain walls, storefront systems, framing, roofing components, and custom fabrications that must perform on day one and hold up for decades. When you’re managing a commercial project, the manufacturer you choose for these products directly affects your schedule, your budget, and your reputation.

three construction workers

How to Hire a Commercial Asphalt Company

Asphalt is one of the most visible elements of any commercial property and one of the most abused. Parking lots, access roads, loading docks, and driveways take a beating from heavy traffic, harsh weather, and the freeze-thaw cycles that define winters in Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. When it’s time

Ventilation

How to Hire a Commercial HVAC Company: What Every Business Owner Needs to Know

Your commercial HVAC system is essential to the comfort, health, and productivity of everyone in your building. Whether you are installing a new system in a newly constructed facility, replacing an aging unit, maintaining existing equipment, or responding to a cooling or heating emergency, choosing the right commercial HVAC company

commercial plumber

How to Hire a Commercial Plumber: What Every Business Owner Needs to Know

Your commercial plumbing system is the backbone of daily business operations. Whether you’re installing a new system in a recently constructed building, maintaining an aging infrastructure, or responding to an emergency failure, choosing the right commercial plumbing contractor makes a huge difference between smooth operations and costly downtime. This guide

photo of 10 people smiling and one holding a trophy

Measuring up: Scholarships and chair competition spotlight student talent

Ten high school students from across the region have earned scholarships from the Builders Association, a nod to their dedication to the skilled trades. They received gift cards totaling $600 for tools and boots and were recognized on April 29 at the association’s offices, where the results of the pre-apprenticeship

electrician wiring building

How to Hire a Commercial Electrician: A Business Owner’s Complete Guide

Whether you’re building out a new commercial space, upgrading aging electrical infrastructure, or adding capacity for new equipment, hiring the right commercial electrician is critical to your facility’s safety and functionality. Unlike residential electrical work, commercial projects involve three-phase power systems, industrial-grade panels, code-compliant conduit runs, and complex load calculations,