New Spectra Precision Grade Lasers from Trimble Feature Wireless Remote Control
Maximum Versatility in Leveling, Grading and Vertical Alignment
with Plumb for General Construction Applications
Karlsruhe, Germany (September 22, 2009) — Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB) introduced today the new Spectra Precision® GL512 and GL522 Grade Lasers. The versatile lasers are rugged, cost-effective and can perform three types of jobs for the construction contractors—level, grade, and vertical alignment with plumb.
The announcement was made today at INTERGEO 2009, the world’s largest conference on geodesy, geoinformatics and land management.
The Spectra Precision GL512 (single-grade) and GL522 (dual-grade) lasers offer fast, easy horizontal level, grade, and vertical plumb setup with no manual leveling. The GL512 and GL522 Grade Lasers send a continuous, self-leveled 360-degree laser reference over an entire work area. They feature a wide grade range of -10 to +15 percent, so they can be used for a variety of slope applications. These extremely rugged lasers can withstand a drop of up to 1 m (3 ft) directly onto concrete.
Both lasers feature a two-way full-function remote control with built-in backlit grade display. This allows the contractor to do everything with the remote control they can do with the laser keypad, up to 100 m (330 ft) away from the laser—even from the cab of the machine. The ability to make grade changes from anywhere on the job greatly reduces setup time and speeds operation, especially when multiple job grade breaks are needed.
New versatile Spectra Precision® Laser GL512 and GL522 Grade Lasers from Trimble can perform three types of jobs for the construction contractors—level, grade, and vertical alignment with plumb.
The GL512 and GL522 laser packages include the new Spectra Precision Laser HL750 Laserometer that can be used at an operating diameter of up to 800 m (2,600 ft). Wireless communication between the HL750 Laserometer and the transmitters provide automatic Grade Matching which allows measurement of unknown grade values between two points. PlaneLok is also available in both the horizontal and vertical planes. PlaneLok automatically locks the beam on the receiver and keeps it on grade. This reduces typical environmental factors that may induce an error. Additionally, the HL750 Laserometer can communicate with another HL750 for long-range wireless remote display and monitoring.
Additionally, the GL512 and GL522 self-plumb in the vertical position to accommodate an even wider range of applications, such as anchor bolt installation, plus form, tilt up, and curtain wall plumbing. Both units also incorporate automatic temperature and grade compensation for high accuracy in any weather or geographical location.
On both models, the laser beam can be turned off electronically on up to three selectable sides. This capability eliminates interference with other crews on the job site by keeping the beam from straying into other work areas.
The Spectra Precision GL512 Single Grade Laser and GL522 Dual Grade Laser are available now through Trimble’s Construction and Construction Tools dealer networks.
About Trimble’s Construction Business
Trimble’s Construction Division is a leading innovator of productivity solutions for both the heavy and highway contractor and the building construction contractor. Trimble’s solutions leverage a variety of technologies, including GPS, construction lasers, total stations, wireless data communications, the Internet, and application software. As part of Trimble’s Connected Site™ strategy, these solutions provide a high-level of process and workflow integration from the design phase through to the finished project—delivering significant improvements in productivity throughout the construction lifecycle.
About Trimble
Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location—including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety, and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif.
For more information, visit Trimble’s web site at www.trimble.com.
New Spectra Precision Theodolite from Trimble Features Dual-sided LCD
Full Featured Digital Electronic Theodolite Designed for General Construction Applications
Karlsruhe, Germany (September 22, 2009) — Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB) introduced today the new Spectra Precision® DET-2 Theodolite. The DET-2 is a rugged, cost-effective digital electronic theodolite that provides accurate horizontal and vertical angle measurements for general construction applications. The versatile instrument is easy-to-use when turning angles and setting elevations and lines.
The announcement was made today at INTERGEO 2009, the world’s largest conference on geodesy, geoinformatics and land management.
With an angular accuracy of 2 seconds, the DET-2 provides the accuracy required for a variety of construction jobs. The display resolution can be tailored to the operator’s preferences for fast readings. A tilt sensor compensates the vertical axis, providing a high level of accuracy on horizontal measurements. When high-accuracy vertical angle measuring is required, the vertical compensation can be turned off. Dual, back-lit LCD’s with extra large characters make angle readings easy-to-see in all light conditions and reduce eye fatigue.
A simple six-button keypad provides quick setups and intuitive operation with a low operator learning curve. The DET-2 is fully customizable for the user’s preferred operating style or job, with programmable settings for the horizontal angle resolution, 90-degree angle beep, and vertical angle display in degrees or percentage.
The DET-2 includes a rechargeable battery pack and charger. A backup alkaline pack holding 4 standard AA batteries is also included to eliminate downtime if additional power is needed to complete a job.
The Spectra Precision DET-2 theodolite is available now through Trimble’s Construction and Construction Tools dealer networks.
About Trimble’s Construction Business
Trimble’s Construction Division is a leading innovator of productivity solutions for both the heavy and highway contractor and the building construction contractor. Trimble’s solutions leverage a variety of technologies, including GPS, construction lasers, total stations, wireless data communications, the Internet, and application software. As part of Trimble’s Connected Site™ strategy, these solutions provide a high-level of process and workflow integration from the design phase through to the finished project—delivering significant improvements in productivity throughout the construction lifecycle.
About Trimble
Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location—including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety, and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif.
For more information, visit Trimble’s web site at www.trimble.com.
CFA Presents Robert D. Sawyer Distinguished Service Award to Barry Herbert
Herbert has been member of the CFA since 1992
Mount Vernon, Iowa (September 18, 2009) — The Concrete Foundations Association (CFA) – an international association dedicated to improving the quality and acceptance of cast-in-place concrete foundations and creating better businesses that construct those foundations – recently presented its highest honor, the Robert D. Sawyer Distinguished Service Award to Barry Herbert at the CFA Annual Summer Convention held July 30-August 1. Barry was introduced by Jim Bartley of Bartley Corporation, and described as a significant example of great leadership; innovation; spirit and faith in our industry and both a person and businessman that he has tried to model his career after.
Herbert has been member of the CFA since 1992. While serving on the board from 1993 to 2002 he attended every meeting and served on multiple committees. He became a member of the ACI-332 Residential Concrete committee in 1995 when the decision was made to create the ACI Residential Standard. This standard is now incorporated into the International Residential Code. He continues to represent the CFA and the concrete foundation industry to the present on that committee. He also developed the present Nominations and Awards Committee for the CFA and served as its chair until 2007.
In 1998 he was elected to a two-year term as CFA president. During his tenure as president, he helped organize the current committee makeup and reorganized the board term schedule changing from a confusing schedule of one, two and three year terms to all three year terms.
The Robert D. Sawyer Award, named on behalf of Bob Sawyer, the first Executive Director of the CFA, is presented occasionally to a member of the concrete foundation industry whose contributions to the industry merit recognition. The award recognizes individuals who give tirelessly of their time and resources to serve the industry.
Herbert has always been at the forefront of technology. In the early 1990’s, he became the first poured wall contractor in the nation to utilize a robotic total station in footing and wall layout. Herbert shared this idea with fellow CFA members and it has now become a standard piece of layout equipment for many CFA members.
“Barry is one of those outstanding examples of the fortitude and commitment to family and industry that is evidenced throughout this association,” said Ed Sauter, Executive Director of the CFA. “Since taking over the reigns of this Association, Barry has provided energy and leadership when it was needed most and his innovative spirit and confidence has long been an example to his peers.”
Herbert and his wife, Linda, founded Herbert Construction Company in 1978 and he remains president of the company run by the two of them, their two sons Mike and Doug and their daughter Amanda Morris and son-in-law Josh Morris. Their company is located in Marietta, Georgia.
“The Robert D. Sawyer Award is the highest honor given to any CFA member and Barry Herbert is very deserving of this award,” said Sauter.
About the CFA
The CFA was established in 1974 for the purpose of improving the quality and acceptance of cast-in-place concrete foundations. CFA provides promotional materials, educational seminars, opportunities for networking, and technical meetings for members in 26 states and Canada. Efforts include the creation of a self-governed CFA Standard now in its third edition and the industry-changing research for cold weather effects on poured foundations. The CFA also represents the interests of its members and the industry on several code and regulatory bodies, such as the American Concrete Institute’s committee responsible for the creation of the “Residential Concrete Standard” adopted as a major reference option for foundation walls by the 2006 IRC. The CFA has several of its members on the ACI committee responsible for this document and will endeavor to ensure that the interests of the foundation contractors are considered. For more information about CFA, please visit www.cfawalls.org.
2009 PROJECT OF THE YEAR
Concrete Facts magazine sat down with CFA Technical Director, Jim Baty to find out more about this program for you. See what Jim had to say about this very important membership benefit.
Why should your members consider this award program? Awards programs are created to do two primary things. The first is to raise awareness of the professionalism and quality of the market that they surround and the second is to provide an easy way to make a statement about companies and their achievements. Depending on the focus of the sponsoring organization, the identity created in the program might be very specific to an application or a material or it might be more generalized to the abilities of a profession. The CFA now represents a great many contractors doing such amazing and incredible variety in their businesses. This is in part due to the economy but we have seen this transformation for many years. The CFA Projects of the Year program removed the singular focus on wild and “wooly” or unbelievable basements and broadened the effort to identify the full breadth of the talent, craftsmanship and professionalism of today’s CFA Foundation Contractor.
What influenced the increase in submittals this year? Some have suggested that with the sagging in the economy, contractors have more time on their hands to consider the projects they’ve done. We know that isn’t the case at all, in fact, it is a challenge to find the time to identify the achievements and provide the evidence of successful projects for an awards program that can and does take focus away from attracting or winning that next all-important job. However, as competition has strengthened and the volume of projects waned, it is evident that contractors saw this year as a chance to really describe what they can do. Submitting a project for a program like this validates companies on a national level, something they can point to on a local level with pride. Even the basic act of submitting and having that project evaluated or publicized is being seen as a chance to extend marketability. Consequently, we had our largest number of submittals–so many that it appears this awards program may have the opportunity to rival more nationally-recognized programs in the media.
What do you see for next year’s program? Based on what we have seen the past couple of years, we would anticipate another impressive crop of projects. Therefore, we will move the deadline for submittals forward to October 1st. This will give CFA staff the time necessary to prepare, publish and host the awards on our website. Voting this past year was so successful through the internet, compared to previous years at the World of Concrete alone, that it is obvious more people want to be involved. We will streamline a bit of the information on the request form but really continue to push members to identify the uniqueness and quality of the projects they do, even if they are a single job of a given caliber each year.
What do you think is the single biggest misunderstood fact? That is pretty clear. This program was known as the “Basement from Hell” for so many years (notice the emphasis on single award). The past few years, more categories have been broadened to continue representing the volume and variety of work these companies are performing. The program now boasts categories for different basement sizes, above-grave residential, commercial work, multi-family work and we anticipate this list growing. We suggest that if you don’t find a category for a type of project you finished, ask us or make one up. You might find others doing similar work that can challenge you to take it up a notch.
What would you like to say to this year’s participants? The CFA is very excited that you found value in the Projects of the Year program. We thank Action Concrete, Ekedal Concrete & Masonry, Bartley Corp., Basement Contractors, Modern Poured Walls and Louisburg Foundation for their hard work and dedication in producing these submittals. Many great comments were received and we hope you identify this participation to your local market. We now challenge you and encourage your peers to begin finding and submitting projects for next year. You may not feel something completed was outstanding but chances are the rest of the market and your peers might.
What is your hope for the future of the program–beyond next year? We believe the level of quality that is being evidenced and the sophistication of these projects is such that this program should see 50-100 entries or more per year. Our experience as judges and sponsors for similar programs suggest that being able to continue expanding categories, awards recognition and strengthening the ways projects are evaluated only pushes a program like this to higher levels of appreciation and representation. As this program grows, the popularity and attractiveness we seek to create will allow us to come up with new ways to promote it and use it to influence the market in which we operate.
Make your plans for 2010: Submittals will open August 1, 2009 and will close October 1, 2009 Contact the CFA headquarters by emailing Jim at jbaty@cfawalls.org, calling 866-232-9255 or checking the CFA website, www.cfawalls.org, for more information on this program and the past projects being recognized.
2009 CFA PROJECT OF THE YEAR
COMMERCIAL/MULTI-FAMILY
PROJECT 2 ENTRY INFORMATION
RHODES HALL ANNEX FOR CLEMSON UNIVERSITY – Clemson, SC
Submitted by
ACTION CONCRETE CONTRACTORS
SIZE: 345 linear ft. 32,000 total sq. ft. FOOTINGS: 360 yds. concrete 30 tons steel WALLS: Total concrete 292 yds. Total steel 47 tons Heights: 14’ to 16’ Thickness: to 10”THE STORY
The complications presented by this project meant the use of our Robotic Total Station became very important. Tolerances were tight so there was little room for error. The job site had no lay-down or staging space, so a mobile tower
crane was used to stage items and move them as needed in the most efficient way possible. The structure included shear wall footings that were three feet thick with double mats of steel and inner stirrups spaced at nine inches o.c. Workers had to climb inside the mats just to tie the bars. Two cantilevered, beveled, and tapered beams were part of a monumental stair case that required a lot of time for shoring and forming.
THE REST OF THE STORY
Jason Sherman from Action Concrete says “The general contractor selected us for two reasons…a good estimate and our continued working relationship where we offer superior knowledge and workmanship.”
Action Concrete had to showcase this superior knowledge at this difficult site. Sherman says “This jobsite had no laydown space. Therefore we utilized our mobile tower crane in order to stage items in the most efficient way possible.”
In addition, this was a LEED certified building, so Action Concrete worked close with their concrete supplier to ‘create’ a special mix in order to utilize 25% fly ash and still achieve strength within 7 days in order to strip shoring.
ABOUT ACTION CONCRETE CONTRACTORS
Action Concrete Contractors in Greenville SC and Asheville NC is specialized in residential and commercial reinforced concrete construction including rebar placement, concrete placement through pumping or pouring, concrete footings, foundations and concrete slaps, poured walls including retaining walls and the all important waterproofing, and stamped concrete designs.
Action Concrete employs a fl eet of concrete construction equipment for concrete pumping with pump boom capacities exceeding 150 feet or 50 meters of pumping distance and for gravel spreading.
Contact Information info@actionconcretecontractors.com 875 Tunnel Rd; Asheville NC 28805 828-210-2025 www.actionconcretecontractors.comABOVE GRADE CONCRETE HOME
PROJECT 3 ENTRY INFORMATION
MB VISNIC – MANGUM RESIDENCE
CONCRETE HOUSE – Stevensville, MD
submitted by
BARTLEY CORPORATION
SIZE: 2,260 linear ft. 24,000 total sq. ft. FOOTINGS 240 yds. concrete 7.75 tons steel WALLS: Total concrete 776 yds. Total steel 34.75 tons Heights 4’ to 14’ Thickness 8” to 10”THE STORY
A 24,000 sq. ft. concrete house is enough to catch anyone’s attention. Even with such a large house, we committed to quality and placed a strong emphasis on the details to achieve a beautiful structure of lasting value. For example the half-suspended elliptical spiral staircase showcases the innovation and fine architecture emphasis placed on the construction. Craftsmanship on the arched openings in the radius walls showed ability to deal with challenges. Changing the plans from ICFs to poured-in-place concrete insulated walls demonstrated our leadership as a concrete contractor to use our CFA, trade, and supplier resources. The elliptical staircase and radius arches were the most difficult challenges. We met the challenges by creating mock-up drawings during on-side meetings with Doka form systems and Lite-Deck. Additionally, the project included above grade formed walls and slabs on the first and second floors. Together the structural features of arched openings in radius walls, and the elliptical, spiral and partially suspended staircase at the rear elevation made this one of our most challenging projects.
THE REST OF THE STORY
Jim Bartley says they were selected for this project by one of their customers, builder MB Visnic. The owner/architect designed the house for ICFs. Jim says they lobbied to change the foam block to ThermaEZE insulated walls and were successful.
Technically Bartley Corp. worked with the builder to plan the attachent of finishes to the concrete/foam walls. They placed a superintendent on site to manage everchanging details.
To estimate this project, Bartley Corp. talked to several CFA members about their estimates and experiences with similar work. They then priced the first and second floors as if they were basements and added on the cost of scaffolding and cranes.
Jim Bartley says ‘This waterfront concrete house sits on the shores of Chesapeake Bay. For years to come, boating spectators will see this work of art and the landmark will give concrete construction a strong association with beautiful architecture.
ABOUT BARTLEY CORPORATION
Founded in 1970, the Bartley Corporation pioneered residential concrete foundation construction to the Mid-Atlantic region. Today they represent the benchmark of quality. Their commitment to service and innovation has made them an industry leader. They provide both commercial and residential services.
Contact Information
jim@bartleycorp.com 16613 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20905 301-384-2700 www.bartleycorp.comSINGLE FAMILY 2,000-5,000 SQ . FT.
PROJECT 13 ENTRY INFORMATION
ASSAEL RESIDENCE – Newport Beach, CA
submitted by
EKEDAL MASONRY & CONCRETE, INC.
SIZE: 3,000 total sq. ft. Total concrete 103 yds. Total steel 30,000 lbs. Heights: 8” to 10’ Thickness: 12”THE STORY
The project had many phases: #1 – a seawall repair consisting of two 25 inch deep, 24 inch diameter caissons; #2 – 12 caissons drilled on the bay side of the project to support the grade beams and a five-inch thick slab on grade; #3 – a 24 inch mat slab, installation of wall-steel, and shotcrete walls; #4 – set-up of shoring and a structural deck above the base and rebar; #5 – a five-inch thick slab on grade poured; #6 – a cantilevered slab pour which started at the front of the house and hung five inches out over the seawall directly above the bay. Footings at the basement level consist of a 24 inch deep mat slab with #6 rebar, 12 inches o.c. top and bottom. Wall verticals are #6 and #7 at eight inches o.c. with #5 horizontal at 16 inches o.c. Footings at first floor level are 24”x24” grade beams with #6 and #4 ties 12 inches o.c. Basement walls range in height from 8’6” to 10 feet tall and are shotcrete with a hard trowel finish. One of the challenges of this project was layers of bedrock difficult to drill through. Also, conditions required bracing from one PL to the opposite PL which was left in place until the structural slab was poured. This project was challenging in that the footprint of the foundation covered nearly the entire square footage of the lot
THE REST OF THE STORY
Ryan Ekedal says they were selected by the homeowner because of their reputation for careful planning and attention to detail. They have an extensive check list of preparations overseen by Ekedal’s owner, detailer, estimator, and Superintendent.
They feel their work with the architect, engineer, and general contractor to generate ideas and methods will help save time and money for the project.
He says “We do a great deal of pre planning to eliminate problems and increase production. This in turn allows our projects to be finished quicker and reaffirming the clients trust in choosing the general contractor.”
“We have fewer problems with the building department because they appreciate our professionalism, reputation, and our strong relationship we have built with them.”
With the loyalty and commitment that we build with our clients, they can always count on us to help with other problems which may arise.
ABOUT EKEDAL MASONRY & CONCRETE COMPANY
Ekedal Masonry & Concrete, Inc. has over 30 years of experience in all phases of a project, from surveying to completion. Their diverse client base has provided us with them knowledge and ability to perform on a wide variety of projects, be it the simple or the most complex designs. Ekedal Masonry & Concrete, Inc. specializes in building high-end custom homes. They are an integral part of all aspects of their projects, saving money through quick and efficient completion.
Contact Information
rekedal@ekedalconcrete.com 220 Newport Center Dr., #11-288, ph: 949.729.8082 www.ekedalconcrete.comSINGLE FAMILY OVER 5,000 SQ FT
PROJECT 12 ENTRY INFORMATION
VILLA DEL LAGO RESIDENCE – Newport Coast, CA
submitted by
EKEDAL MASONRY & CONCRETE, INC.
SIZE: 931 linear ft. 23,557 total sq. ft. FOOTINGS: 383 yds. concrete 24,450 lbs. steel WALLS: Total concrete 417 yds. Total steel 73,282 lbs. HEIGHTS: 10’6” to 15’6” THICKNESS: 1’4” to 8”
THE STORY
This project consisted of footing sizes varying from 24 inches wide x 1’6” deep to 10 inches wide x two feet deep with rebar ranging from #4 to #7 at 12 inches o.c. Footings stepped one to three feet with multiple elevation changes and the walls had over 50 corners and several angles. Complicating the structure were corbels along the tops of the wall to pick up the structural steel and several of the walls were battered 10 to 16 inches. Also, there were vast concrete columns to support the massive structural concrete deck. Forming the walls and the structural deck used new HDO plywood to achieve a better finish and to decrease the chance for deflection. Concrete additives were used for walls and deck to increase flow-ability around the tight bar spacing (four inches in some spots) and to achieve a higher quality finish. In order to accomplish the high level of detail, we used in house expertise to draw up wall profiles of every wall and column (60 total) with elevations, beam pockets, hardware, embeds, etc. The detailer also detailed all rebar for the structural deck and walls which ended up being over 500 pages of complex rebar details.
THE REST OF THE STORY
Ryan Ekedal says that like the Assael home, the home owner of this project selected Ekedal Masonry because of their reputation.
Ryan says that like all their jobs, their detailer drew up wall profiles of every wall & column (60 total) with elevations, beam pockets, hardware, embeds, etc. The detailer also detailed all rebar for the structural deck and walls which ended up being over 500 pages of complex rebar details.
It is this type of attention to detail that led to the success of this project.
ABOUT EKEDAL MASONRY & CONCRETE COMPANY
Ekedal Masonry & Concrete, Inc. has over 30 years of experience in all phases of a project, from surveying to completion. Their diverse client base has provided us with the knowledge and ability to perform on a wide variety of projects, be it the simple or the most complex designs. Ekedal Masonry & Concrete, Inc. specializes in building high-end custom homes. They are an integral part of all aspects of their projects, saving money through quick and efficient completion.
Contact Information
rekedal@ekedalconcrete.com 220 Newport Center Dr., #11-288, ph: 949.729.8082 www.ekedalconcrete.comPROJECT 1 ENTRY INFORMATION
JOCASSE CLUB, UNIT 1 – Salem, South Carolina
submitted by
ACTION CONCRETE CONTRACTORS
SIZE: 751 linear ft. 3100 total sq. ft. FOOTINGS: 281 yds. concrete 14 tons steel WALLS: Total concrete 340 yds. Total steel 23 tons HEIGHTS: 31’ THICKNESS: 8” to 24”PROJECT 4 ENTRY INFORMATION
DEE’S RESIDENCE – Norman, Oklahoma
submitted by
BASEMENT CONTRACORS
SIZE: 525 linear ft. 4,618 total sq. ft. FOOTING: 112 yds. concrete 5,200 lbs. steel WALLS: Total concrete 326 yds. Total steel 26,500 lbs. HEIGHTS: 2’, 10’, 12’ and 24’ THICKNESS: 6” to 14”PROJECT 5 ENTRY INFORMATION
NORTON RESIDENCE – Bay Village, Ohio
submitted by
MODERN POURED WALLS
SIZE: 810 linear ft. 3,967 total sq. ft. FOOTINGS: 116 yds. concrete 8,085 lbs. steel WALLS: Total concrete 156 yds. Total steel 20,370 lbs. HEIGHTS: 3’ to 14’6” THICKNESS: 8”, 12”PROJECT 6 ENTRY INFORMATION
MORSCH RESIDENCE – Bucyrus, Kansas
submitted by
LOUISBURG FOUNDATION
SIZE: 760 linear ft. 9,650 total sq. ft. FOOTINGS: 94 yds. concrete 6,000 tons (9,000 ft) steel WALLS: Total concrete 207 yds. Total steel 12,000 lbs. (18,000 feet) HEIGHTS: 1’ to 16’CFA MEMBER RECOGNIZED
Carol Mulready and her company CBJ Foundations was named “Entrepreneur of the Year” during the annual Harold Webster Smith Awards presentation at the Waterbury, CT Chamber of Commerce January meeting. The RepublicanAmerican newspaper writes: “Mulready, 52, is one of the three small business owners in the region who will be honored Thursday at the 12th annual Harold Webster Smith Awards Breakfast. Mulready will be honored as Entrepreneur of the Year.”
The winners, who were selected by the Waterbury Regional Chamber’s Small Business Council, were feted at the annual breakfast at 8 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Southbury.
CBJ Foundations is a 13-year-old concrete construction company that pours footings, walls and floors for new homes, additions, barns, garages and small commercial buildings. Mulready, who has been pouring concrete on either a full- or part-time basis for the past 35 years, launched the company in June 1995 with $30,000 she borrowed from her sister, June Stronk of Westbrook.
Congratulations Carol on your hard work that has paid dividends, not only in a thriving business in these challenging economic times, but also in recognition of excellence in your community and by your peers. You can read the complete article online from the RepublicanAmerican archives by establishing an account, and following this link.
CFA CERTIFICATION SUCCESS AT WORLD OF CONCRETE
In February, the CFA Certification Program took a major step forward with the first public offering of the Foundation Technician Certification Exam. During the World of Concrete, thirty four (34) persons attended the inaugural technician seminar and twenty eight (28) sat for the exam. This very challenging exam is not for the curious of mind as evidenced by the fact that only ten (10) from this sitting achieved the status of Certified Foundation Technician. A total of thirty (30) technicians now exist throughout the United States with more exams which took place in March in Mount Vernon, IA and and then upcoming this summer in Jacksonville, FL. Other dates and locations are being considered by the CFA Certification Committee.
Officially established this past Summer during the CFA Annual Summer Convention, the Certification Program recognizes the competence and command of major industry references and resources that shape the quality of cast-in-place concrete foundations for residential construction. This recognition, or certification, involves the study of resources followed by successful completion of a two-hour, open book exam. Once a Certified Foundation Technician is established in a foundation company, that company can then begin the second phase of the program, completing a series of forms that describe and define the company’s success in a variety of areas including business, insurance, safety and training, among others. Once evaluation of this second phase is complete, and the company passes the standard set for certification, they are then prepared to become identified as a Certified Foundation Company. This level of accomplishment as a company is renewed annually through free and continuing education as well as random audits. Find out more on the overall requirements at www.cfawalls.org.
Certification Has Arrived!
CFA’s Certification program is exceeding our expectations! Since the inaugural kick off last summer at the “08”, summer meeting in New Mexico the program now boasts seven (7) fully certified companies and thirty (30) certifi ed technicians with fifty one (51) individuals having taken the exam. The momentum the program has going can be seen in the number of inquires CFA is getting by foundation companies interested in the certification. I believe if the momentum for this program continues it will lead to significant benefits for both the CFA and the certified member companies and improve the professionalism of the industry.
The first phase of developing this program is well under way. Our plan was to test and certify a few companies last summer so we could work through the process for becoming a certified company and fine-tuned the program as needed. We never dreamed the program would be this successful after just 6 months.
The program will be enhanced by the addition of the CFA Certified Foundation Technician. Since so many companies sent more than one person to test (although the CFA criteria to become a certified company requires that only one active company representative has to set and pass the written exam) it only makes sense that those companies should reap additional benefits for having additional key personnel passing the exam. The board of directors thought that it was awesome that companies would be so willing to stand above others in their area that the CFA Certified Foundation Technician was born. To become a CFA Certified Foundation Technician you must only pass the written exam. The certification is good for 5 years and at that point, you will only have to re-take and pass the written exam.
Now that we have the mechanics of the program up and running, all we need to work on is the second phase of the program. Marketing the CFA company certification program. This accomplishment needs to be sold to our customers and the housing industry. I personally have waited to market this accomplishment until I felt the program was successful and I believe we are at that point. Within my company, we are currently changing our marketing and advertising material to include CFA’s certification logo. I believe that it is vital to the success of the program and the people who have or will become certified to work together and share ideas about marketing strategies and what is working best for each of us. To find out more about what is available call the CFA office or check out the CFA web site at www.cfawalls.org.
Dan Bromley, CFA President, ABI Corporation
Trimble’s New AllTrak System Manages Construction Asset Usage and Reduces Loss
Intelligent Database and Barcode Scanning System Provides Valuable Data on Tools, Equipment and Portable Assets
Sunnyvale, California (August 24, 2009) — Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB) today introduced the Trimble AllTrak™ Asset Management System for contractors to manage their construction equipment and tools such as drills, ladders, compressors, nailers, and consumables. With accurate tracking information about asset usage, contractors can increase their efficiency while confidently managing acquisition, maintenance, and eventual retirement of their tools, equipment, and other portable assets.
The announcement was made at the Trimble Building Construction Boot Camp 2009, a field-based, hands-on training event for the building construction industry.
Leveraging Proven Trimble Hardware with Innovative New Tracking Software
Construction contractors invest thousands of dollars annually on buying, renting, and servicing their tools and equipment. Trimble AllTrak increases the return on their investment by improving asset utilization and monitoring equipment to avoid loss or misplacement.
The Trimble AllTrak system leverages the wireless connectivity and barcode scanning capabilities of the rugged Trimble Nomad™ controller. Using the Trimble Nomad and Trimble AllTrak Mobile software, tool crib managers can perform essential transactions such as check-in, check-out, transfers and additions from anywhere. This advanced tracking information is particularly useful for managing rental tools and equipment and prorating costs. Users can set up visual and email reminder alerts for rental return dates and track total rental cost versus asset value ratios.
Users can also produce accurate real-time reports to identify inventory that is under utilized, at the end of its life cycle, costing money, or making money.
Trimble AllTrak is available now from select dealers in Trimble’s North America construction distribution network.
About Trimble’s Building Construction Business
Trimble’s Building Construction Division is a leading innovator of productivity solutions for the building construction contractor. Trimble’s solutions target site prep, general, concrete, mechanical, electrical and plumbing contractors on large and small commercial, industrial and residential jobsites. Trimble is focused on delivering solutions that tightly link office based process and information with the field crew—including taking Building Information Models (BIM) and other design data to the field for highly accurate positioning and layout of foundations and mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. Trimble solutions provide a high-level of process and workflow integration from the design phase through to the finished project—delivering significant improvements in productivity throughout the building construction lifecycle.
About Trimble
Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location — including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif.
For more information, visit Trimble’s Web site at: www.trimble.com.
Trimble Introduces the New Excavator Depth Display System Designed for Compact Equipment
Spectra Precision Laser DDS300 Delivers Dynamic Real-time Bucket Positioning and Simple Installation in an Affordable Package
Sunnyvale, California (August 24, 2009) — Trimble (NASDAQ: TRMB) today announced the Spectra Precision® Laser DDS300 Depth Display System. Designed for compact equipment including backhoes, mini-excavators and smaller excavators, the new DDS300 system provides dynamic depth display to improve the accuracy and productivity of trenching, excavating and grading operations. With wireless connectivity between components, simple installation and movement between machines, and an affordable price, the new DDS300 is ideal for compact equipment on large commercial, industrial and residential jobsites.
The announcement was made today at the Trimble Building Construction Boot Camp 2009, a field-based, hands-on training event for the building construction industry.
The Spectra Precision Laser DDS300 Depth Display System can be used by contractors involved in general construction, site preparation and utility work. It can be used for excavating basements, foundations and footers, trenching flat bottom and simple slopes, grading flat and simple slopes as well as embankment and profile work for canals. The system leverages laser and angle sensor technology to provide dynamic real-time position information for the bucket at all times. The dynamic real-time information allows the operator to excavate, trench, grade or cut profiles more quickly and accurately than traditional laser-referenced machine guidance systems.
The DDS300 system is easy-to-install and use. It uses wireless connectivity between the sensors on the boom and the in-cab control box to eliminate cables and significantly reduce installation time. This innovative capability makes it quick and easy to move the system between mini-excavators, backhoes and small excavators—in as little as 30 minutes.
The system requires little training time and can increase an operator’s productivity and efficiency. At the core of the system is the Spectra Precision Laser CB300, a 7-inch full color touch screen that takes the user through the installation, setup and operating modes of the display system. The display is used to setup the system for depth and depth and slope applications such as footers, basements, ditching and canals.
The Spectra Precision Laser DDS300 is part of Trimble’s portfolio of laser-referenced machine guidance and automatic control systems designed specifically for compact equipment on small to large building construction jobsites. The new DDS300 system is available with a standard laser receiver or can be used with one of the current Spectra Precision Laser machine receivers. Additionally the system can be used without a laser receiver for even greater flexibility.
The Spectra Precision Laser DDS300 is expected to be available during the third quarter of 2009 through Trimble’s worldwide Building Construction Distribution Channel.
About Trimble’s Building Construction Business
Trimble’s Building Construction Division is a leading innovator of productivity solutions for the building construction contractor. Trimble’s solutions target site prep, general, concrete, mechanical, electrical and plumbing contractors on large and small commercial, industrial and residential jobsites. Trimble is focused on delivering solutions that tightly link office-based process and information with the field crew—including taking Building Information Models (BIM) and other design data to the field for highly accurate positioning and layout of foundations and mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. Trimble solutions provide a high-level of process and workflow integration from the design phase through to the finished project—delivering significant improvements in productivity throughout the building construction lifecycle.
About Trimble
Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location—including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety, and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif.
For more information, visit: www.trimble.com
Distributors Can Benefit From Adding Bilco’s stakWEL® Window Well System to Their Product Lines
New Haven, Connecticut (August 19, 2009) — For distributors, providing home builders, remodelers and contractors with products that can increase the value of their projects is always a good business strategy.
One of the most economical ways to add value to a home is by finishing the basement, which can provide homeowners with additional living space that can be used as everything from a bedroom or home office to a game room or home theater.
Bilco’s new and improved stakWEL® Window Well System features polyethylene inserts that add strength and rigidity to withstand adverse freeze/thaw and site settling conditions and also simplify the back-filling process.
The Bilco Company offers distributors a variety of basement products, including the enhanced stakWEL® Window Well System that adds light and ventilation to lower-level areas while providing safe, code-compliant emergency egress. It helps transform basements into valuable living space resulting in increased square footage for the home.
The stakWEL is a modular system of units that are stacked together to accommodate virtually any foundation depth. The design features high-density polyethylene inserts that add strength and rigidity to withstand adverse freeze/thaw and site-settling conditions. Inserts also simplify the back-filling process and lock modules together to create a cohesive window well assembly.
The stakWEL can be used with both utility and egress windows. It offers building and remodeling industry professionals several benefits, including
- Durability & Aesthetics. Unlike steel, the stakWEL is made of high-density polyethylene molded construction that will not rust, rot, or discolor. It comes in a neutral driftwood color and features a pebbled interior finish that will compliment the interior and exterior of any home.
- Ease of Installation. The stakWEL modular system can be easily installed on a window buck or directly to a foundation wall.
- Code Compliance. The window well’s unique “Grip/Step” design meets all basement egress building code requirements.
- Competitive Pricing. The stakWEL is competitively priced to steel window wells.
For more information on the stakWEL® Window Well System or to learn how to become a distributor or certified installer, call (800) 854-9724 or visit www.bilco.com.
For more than 80 years, The Bilco Company has been a building industry pioneer in the design and development of specialty access products. Over these years, the company has built a reputation among homeowners, builders, architects, and engineers for products that are unequaled in design and workmanship. Bilco – an ISO 9001 certified company – offers a line of roof hatches, automatic fire vents, floor access doors, and a complete line of residential products that are designed to improve the look and function of basement areas. With headquarters in West Haven, Connecticut, Bilco has manufacturing facilities in Trumann, Arkansas, and Zanesville, Ohio, and an international network of sales offices, dealers, distributors, and representatives.
