World of Concrete Recap: Foundation Contractors Night, Education and Industry Innovation
World of Concrete once again proved why it remains a primary gathering for the concrete and masonry industries, bringing together contractors, suppliers, educators and innovators from across the country. For CFA and its members, the week was packed with meaningful networking, valuable education and ongoing conversations on technology innovations. Every year on the first night […]
The Top 10 Technical Inquiries in Concrete Foundation Construction
Construction professionals make hundreds of decisions a day. Navigating the complexities of running a business alone is hard enough. But to stay on top of industry advancements, evolving codes, new materials and the constant pressure to deliver structural integrity on tight schedules—we all need to rely from time to time on the advice from a […]
Strengthening Support for the Foundation Industry
For decades, CFA has served as a critical technical resource for foundation contractors and the broader concrete industry. From best practices and standard development to real-world problem-solving, CFA’s mission has always centered on helping members build smarter, safer and more efficiently. As the industry evolves, CFA remains committed to strengthening the resources available to its […]
How to Submit Your Project for the CFA Project of the Year Award
Submitting your best work for an award is more than just seeking applause. It is about validating your team’s hard work, showcasing your craftsmanship to future clients and setting a new benchmark for the cast-in-place concrete industry. The Concrete Foundations Association (CFA) Project of the Year program is the platform for recognizing innovation, technical skill […]
Bulletproof Your Business Against Lawsuits
By Larry Oxenham, senior advisor, American Society for Asset Protection Lawsuits are not just a threat to small businesses across America; they are expensive and always on the horizon. As one small business owner told me, “I spend as much time trying to prevent lawsuits as I do running my business.” More than 12 million […]
Interpreting Nominal Concrete Wall Thickness
Compiled by CFA Staff In the world of residential concrete construction, one topic that comes up frequently is the interpretation of “nominal” versus “actual” concrete wall thickness. The conversation that often starts with a frustrated contractor and a skeptical building inspector. In most cases, the dispute usually centers on a fraction of an inch and whether standard forming systems meet code requirements. Why does […]
CFACON26 Heads to Milwaukee
The Concrete Foundations Convention, better known as #CFACON, brings the cast-in-place concrete industry to Milwaukee, Wis., July 21–23, 2026. CFACON has served as the premier annual concrete foundations event where leaders from across North America come together to learn, connect and commit to both company and individual growth. CFACON26 features three dynamic days of education, exhibits, networking, awards and unforgettable experiences. Hosted at the Brookfield […]
A Legacy Supported by Certification
Certification programs establish measurable standards for skilled trade professionals—demonstrating technical proficiency, adherence to best practices and ongoing professional growth. Ensuring that residential construction professionals are adhering to these standards is vital to the success of our industry. The Residential Foundation Technician Certification is a collaborative effort between the American Concrete Institute (ACI) and the Concrete Foundations Association (CFA). This program evaluates the competency of an individual in […]
From Hard Hats to Helmets: The Evolution of Head Protection in the Workplace
By Scott Greenhaus Previously published in Concrete Repair Bulletin, March/April 2024 In the realm of occupational safety, head protection has come a long way from its beginnings as a simple hard hat. The transition from hard hats to helmets represents a remarkable evolution in the goal to keep workers safe in a wide range of industries. This article explores the history and technological advancements […]
CFA Tech Note 014: Interpreting Nominal Concrete Wall Thickness
Introduction A frequent point of discussion between contractors, designers and code authorities involves the interpretation of “nominal” versus “actual” concrete wall thickness. This technical note provides clarification on this topic by examining relevant building codes and industry standards. Understanding the code-defined relationship between nominal and actual dimensions is essential for ensuring compliance and project continuity. Analysis of Code Requirements The International Residential […]
