The Future of Construction: Emerging Technologies and Trends
Sexton Member Conference – Attendees make sure to select your included Activity!
As we get closer to November, we are excited to be finalizing our plans for the 2025 Sexton Member Conference. I encourage those of you who are attending to ensure you watch your email communications over the next few months for important details around conference. Just this past week, we launched an email to select your included excursion. There is something for everyone, adventure, leisure, and historical options. Selections are a first come, first served basis, so make sure to check for that email and get your choice excursions submitted, and that anyone who is accompanying you on the conference is accounted for as well. If you have any trouble finding the email, please reach out to Sarah Bridges, Marketing Coordinator at sbridges@sextongroup.com.
What's to come: Soon you will see our full Conference itinerary, which for those of you attending for the first time – will have a great mix of planned opportunities to connect with one another, as well as free time to further those connections or use how you see fit. As we get closer to the actual Conference date, you will also see an invitation via email to our Conference App. Our app will have everything you need for a successful Conference experience – the agenda, a page to book meetings, a social wall, a list of and contact information of all other attendees and so much more.
It is always an good time when we start getting out some of these fun communications around Conference and get to see the excitement start to build. We have a great group for this year, and I am looking forward to connecting with those of you who will be attending in just a few short months.
- Eric
Key Factors Affecting All Markets
Time of year
Conditions for construction were a challenge across much of North America again this past week with extreme smoke, storms and high temperatures impacting demand. That said we are now just a few weeks from the typically better fall conditions.
Wildfire activity has intensified and spread across North America but impacts on production has remained limited. We are now at the peak of the fire season, so the risk of disruption remains elevated.
Trade War
The Canadian government announced $1.2 billion of grants, loans and other support for the Canadian Wood Products industry last week. The intent is to help our producers adjust product offerings and supply lines to find new markets. The news was received positively by both producers and the financial markets in Canada.
Section 232 Tariffs
The US Lumber Coalition who are the leading wood producer lobbyist group in the US wrote this week that “Canada has once again demonstrated its willingness to flout U.S. trade laws by announcing a massive $1.2 billion subsidy package to its softwood lumber industry”. The ongoing pressure coming from the Lumber Coalition could increase the likelihood of section 232 tariffs on wood products that would also impact OSB, plywood, EWP and a host of other products.
The US administration has promised that Section 232 tariffs for pharmaceuticals and computer chips will be finalized this week, leaving wood products as one of just a few remaining industries under review.
Economic Factors on Demand
July labour data on both sides of the border worsened, adding to the economic situation on both sides of the border. Employment is a primary driver of economic activity, and the July reports could make consumers more cautious, hurting demand in the coming months.
The US level of construction spending fell 0.7% m/m and a full 6% y/y based on seasonally adjusted data in June. The YTD average SAAR construction spending is now off by 2.5% with the biggest y/y drops coming in the most recent months. With interest rates still high and affordability issues still growing, it is likely this trend will continue at least through the end of 2025.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
The Hammer Episode #60: Much ADU About Something – Joshua Oladehinde, Level Custom Build
As new custom homebuilders working in the Toronto area, Joshua and his partner, Alvaro, were getting more and calls to build outbuildings on existing residential yards, home additions to add space for family and rentals, and fully separated basement living space – so-called Alternative Dwelling Units. The work has proven to be lucrative and relatively uncomplicated, with municipalities speeding up approvals even over Josh's five years in business, so the partners have decided to make it a focus of their business. Josh joined The Hammer to talk about his journey to his point and share some tips and observations on the emerging ADU trend.
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Making a splash in winter with radiant heat
In Ottawa, the temperature on the first of January is typically well below freezing. Averaging between -10 and -7 C around the New Year holiday, most outdoor swimming pools are not in use. But where there's a will, there's a way.
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Alexandria Moulding is excited to announce the addition of two premium outdoor product lines: TREX and Versetta Stone.
TREX delivers industry-leading composite decking solutions, providing retailers and contractors with durable, low-maintenance products that meet growing consumer demand for stylish outdoor spaces.
Versetta Stone enhances exteriors with its innovative stone veneer panels, offering a professional-grade solution that installs easily while delivering the timeless look of stone. These additions provide business partners with high-quality, in-demand options to grow their sales and satisfy clients. Speak to an Alexandria sales rep to learn how Trex and Versetta Stone can elevate your product offerings and projects.
The LXT System from Makita is the world's largest compatible cordless tool system powered by 18V slide-style batteries. Makita's purpose-built motors, battery technology, and enhanced communications work together to deliver unmatched power, speed, and run time. Get maximum performance and efficiency with LXT Products for every trade.
New group forms to push effective homebuilding strategies
The Large Urban Centre Alliance, representing home builders and rental providers from cities that account for more than 50 per cent of Canada's annual housing starts, has provided the federal government with a suite of recommendations to address the current housing crisis.
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ASHRAE conference registration open
ASHRAE has announced an exciting lineup of keynote sessions and technical programming for the 2025 ASHRAE Conference for Integrated Design, Construction & Operations (CIDCO), taking place Aug. 13 to 15 in Denver, Colo. The conference will bring together professionals from across the built environment to explore innovative strategies that shape the future of building performance.
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Contractor Productivity Forum to focus on the little guy
On Oct. 1, Canadian Contractor will host our inaugural Contractor Productivity Forum at the Toronto Congress Centre. It's going to be a quick and convenient day of discussion about how to make our businesses more efficient and profitable, with presentations from top experts. There will also be refreshments and a chance to chat with your fellow contractors.
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Canadian-Made Modern Farmhouse Design – Perfect for Your Projects
Experience the enduring charm of modern farmhouse style with Kaycan's Board & Batten Vinyl Siding. Proudly Canadian-made and sustainably produced, our siding is engineered for Canada's diverse climates and designed for today's popular modern farmhouse aesthetic. Its clean, timeless elegance delivers durability and style, making it the ideal choice for contractors seeking eco-friendly, high-quality solutions. Elevate your builds with a product that blends tradition with innovation. Discover the many benefits of Kaycan's Board & Batten collection today.
