Articles from Construction Canada

Greenbuild 2025 is an annual event for green building professionals, scheduled for November 4-7, 2025, in Los Angeles, aiming to improve resilience and sustainability in buildings and communities. Attendees will gain insights into sustainable development, connect with industry leaders, and explore innovative solutions. The event offers numerous learning opportunities, including CE credits, and will emphasize social equity and diverse participation.

The Canadian Wood Council and the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction have partnered to promote steel-timber hybrid structural solutions in Canada. This collaboration aims to leverage the strength of steel and the sustainability of timber to enhance structural performance, cost efficiency, and construction speed in larger and taller buildings. Hybrid systems like steel-timber composite floors are particularly beneficial where structural demands are high. This initiative underscores the industry's shift towards more sustainable construction practices.

Fabric structures have transitioned from niche applications to mainstream use due to advancements in design and materials. The shift to using solid I-beams instead of web-truss frames has increased their structural credibility, allowing them to compete with conventional buildings. Innovations in fabric materials, particularly the use of advanced PVC, offer durability and cost-competitiveness. These developments have broadened the application of fabric structures in sports, industrial, and municipal buildings, with improved speed of installation and structural flexibility.

The article discusses the growing trend towards constructing high-performance, net-zero energy-ready buildings. It highlights the importance of advanced building envelopes, efficient systems, and the integration of renewable energy. A quiz is offered to test knowledge on these sustainability strategies within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.

Mitten has introduced the industry's first black vinyl siding that can withstand extreme heat without warping or fading. Tested in Arizona under harsh conditions, the siding uses a PVDF film to reflect heat and resist UV damage, maintaining its color. This innovation provides a high-performance and cost-effective alternative to metal or wood for achieving a true black exterior. For more information about the product, visit their website.

The article discusses a quiz centered around the importance of sustainability in the construction industry, emphasizing the sector's significant contribution to global CO2 emissions. It highlights the role of sustainable building methods, materials, and construction models in reducing these emissions. The quiz aims to test readers' knowledge of pathways toward achieving a net-zero future by understanding the impact of the built environment. The content invites readers to engage with tools that can help the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry in reshaping sustainable construction practices.

Kelly Sawatzky discusses the importance of specification writing in the construction industry. Sawatzky highlights that specification skills are often overlooked in architectural education, emphasizing the necessity for understanding specifications to ensure quality in the built environment. She urges professional schools to incorporate specification writing into their curriculum and encourages professionals to take advantage of educational courses offered by organizations like CSC. The goal is to improve communication and execution within construction projects.

The article discusses the evolution of waterproofing technologies and highlights the significance of polyurea in modern construction. Waterproofing has been crucial in construction for thousands of years, evolving from ancient methods to advanced solutions like spray-applied membranes. Polyurea offers enhanced foundation protection by allowing application even on damp substrates, a feature lacking in traditional waterproofing systems. The piece includes a quiz that tests readers' knowledge about waterproofing history, failures, and modern techniques.

BAU CHINA 2025 will take place in Shanghai and will showcase building system solutions, technologies, and materials, attracting architects, engineers, and planners. The trade fair will bring together several specialized expositions including those focused on windows, doors, and innovative building designs. Key topics such as digital innovations, urban renewal, and sustainable development will be discussed by international experts. The event offers free entry for those who register in advance.

Pomerleau is committed to innovation by leveraging advanced technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) to enhance project phases from design to execution. They use drones and 3D laser scanners for accurate data collection and renovation planning. Their innovation strategy also emphasizes sustainability, including electrifying equipment, using low-impact materials, and reducing emissions. Pomerleau aims to build environments that are safer, smarter, and more sustainable.

Elevate MAX PVC is a high-performance roofing membrane designed for challenging commercial environments. It features a robust scrim layer for enhanced stability and wind resistance, and offers protection against UV light, chemicals, and extreme weather conditions. The membrane is also reflective, potentially lowering cooling costs and enhancing energy efficiency, and is completely recyclable when mechanically attached. Elevate MAX PVC is suitable for airports, restaurants, and industrial facilities, promoting sustainability in demanding roofing applications.

The article discusses a quiz based on the benefits of using metal fabric for rooftop design, known as the 'fifth facade.' This material balances performance, safety, and aesthetics, and is used in commercial, educational, and healthcare facilities. Metal fabric offers durability, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal, providing solutions such as solar shading, fall protection, and equipment screening. The quiz tests knowledge on how metal fabric enhances sustainability and design in modern architectural rooftop spaces.