A publication of the Concrete Foundations Association
Concrete Facts Magazine Online
Feature
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 […]
An Unbalanced Market: Demand, Development and What’s Ahead
By Chris Hancock, CEO, Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis The U.S. homebuilding industry is operating in an increasingly unbalanced market, shaped by persistent economic pressures, structural supply constraints and evolving buyer behavior. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), builders across the country continue to face a convergence of challenges that complicate both planning and production. Elevated interest rates remain the most significant headwind, directly impacting affordability and […]
Magazine Issues
CFA Announces New Association Freight Program
CFA has an agreement with Estes Association Solutions to help members secure reliable freight transportation services. Estes is the largest privately owned freight carrier in North America. When CFA members enroll in the program, they will enjoy exclusive membership pricing, dedicated support, and access to Estes’ full suite of freight shipping services. “Estes has LTL […]
We See You!
Building Tomorrow’s Workforce Through Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship Program In March, industry professionals gathered at the “BUILD MY TALENT” event, hosted by the Lakeland Builders Association and Racine Kenosha Builders Association in Wisconsin, to showcase how the Youth Apprenticeship (YA) Program is shaping the future of construction by providing high school students with hands-on, real-world experience. […]
Why Membership Matters
By Scott Renfroe – foundationbuilders.com “Critical Technical Responses” – We recently completed a large commercial foundation project for a repeat customer. The General Contractor values our expertise and quality but had concerns about this project because his buyers, who are engineers, questioned whether the foundation should have been poured in cold weather and questioned if […]
Building Back Better: The Case for Concrete Homes
By Joe Nasvik The recent fires in Los Angeles have resulted in the largest amount of fire damage the country has ever seen. For so many people, life went from normal to one of complete despair in the matter of just a few hours. Homes of all kinds—modern and traditional designs; new and old; homes […]
How Do You Define Stability in Your Concrete Business?
By Bill Humbert, www.RecruiterGuy.com Our country is evolving—shifting perspectives, adjusting immigration policies, and even reshaping the size of our government. As with any transformation, there will be resistance and unforeseen consequences. Some of these changes may positively impact your business, while others may present challenges. This article isn’t meant to alarm you but spark critical […]
Kicking Off a Major Anniversary
Congratulations! That is to say, congratulations to those reading this article, knowing that you and your company are members of the Concrete Foundations Association, an organization that turns its golden anniversary in 2025. Fifty years of existence is an impressive mark. Looking back on those fifty years reveals the staggering perseverance, endurance, patience, and tenacious […]
Board of Directors Announce New Management for Association and Celebration Strategies for 50th Anniversary
Mount Vernon, IA (date) – The Concrete Foundations Association (CFA) Board of Directors has announced a management change for the organization, which coincides with its 50th anniversary. Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, CFA will be managed by the AOE Team – an association management and marketing consulting firm with headquarters in Farmington Hills, Mich., after more […]
Using Decorative Concrete to Refresh Outdoor Spaces
In both residential and commercial construction, decorative concrete is gaining popularity as a transformative element that revitalizes outdoor spaces. No longer reduced to just a functional, utilitarian solution, decorative concrete now serves as a versatile canvas for architects and designers looking to create aesthetically pleasing, durable, and cost-effective environments. The adaptability of decorative concrete allows […]
New Identity for Central Wisconsin CFA Member
Dane, WI – With a 77-year history of building trust, excellence, and strong foundations, Wisconsin-based concrete contractor Hottmann Construction, Inc. announces a rebranding initiative that reflects the company’s evolving vision, values, and commitment to the future. “We are excited to re-introduce ourselves to the marketplace in mid-December as Cru Concrete,” states company president, Ken Kurszewski. […]
Falling Forward
I find this happening every year—fall comes sooner than I feel prepared to handle. While it really shouldn’t surprise me, the leaves have already fallen and daylight hours have shortened, which means winter is not far off. Normally by now, I am looking forward to a short break from the chaos of a busy construction […]
Caught-In-Action
Timing on jobsites is not always precise, yet, as quality firms recognize, good crews always find a way to be productive. This photo was captured and sent in by CFA member, Bartley Corp, showing team members, who were waiting on forms to arrive to the site, capitalizing on available time. “This job was run by […]
2024 PROJECTS OF THE YEAR
The Rest of the Best The last issue of Concrete Facts presented the top-voted project and each of the respective category winners from the 25th annual competition for the Concrete Foundations Association. Two ways to revisit these project awards are available in the toolbox accompanying this article. The feature image from each project can be […]
