Silvi Materials operates a network of concrete plants, gravel and sand reserves, mining operations, rock quarries, and a barge terminal in both New Jersey and its home state of Pennsylvania. The company’s main customers are construction firms, contractors, government agencies, landscapers, and concrete manufacturers, and this vertically integrated firm also offers transloading and stevedore services, maintains warehouses, and operates commercial real estate.

Now, Silvi Materials has become a lot bigger. In a deal finalized this summer, the company acquired the assets and operations of Eagle Rock Concrete, a leading ready-mix concrete producer based in Raleigh, North Carolina. The newly acquired firm will now bear the name Eagle Rock Concrete, a Silvi Materials Company.

“We’re letting them run as a separate business, while reporting up to our headquarters in Fairless Hills,” explains Co-President Larry Silvi II. “We’ll be employing our best practices with them. We’re basically sitting back and watching how they do business before we implement any changes. We feel they do some things that we could learn from, and we’ve got some things they could learn from.”

Eagle Rock’s assets include nine high-production ready-mix plants, one greenfield, and 115 ready-mix trucks, most of them less than two-and-a-half years old. Thanks to the acquisition, Silvi Materials has gone from roughly 800 employees to nearly 1,000. The deal drastically expands the company’s market reach in the Southeast and enhances its regional logistics network for slag and cement distribution as well.

“I would say we’re very acquisitive,” says Silvi. “We are looking to continue to grow and expand, organically and through acquisitions.”

Indeed, Silvi Materials has also been on an organic growth spurt as of late. This fall, the company announced that it is building an import terminal at a deep water port in Morehead City, North Carolina. Once completed, the facility will feature a pair of 100,000-ton storage domes and specialize in Type I/II low-alkali cement and Grade 120 slag. Designed to receive overseas cement shipments while offering trucking and rail loadout, the terminal is expected to be in operation in the fourth quarter of 2027. Significant as the Eagle Rock acquisition is, “Our plan to build a deep water import terminal in North Carolina is as big, if not an even bigger financial commitment,” notes Silvi.

At present, the company is operating a temporary cement rail loadout site in Morehead City. This facility is receiving rail loads of cement from the company’s premier cement terminal based in Bristol, Pennsylvania.

Against this backdrop, the company also recently opened a new RexCon Mobile 12 concrete batch plant in Newark, New Jersey. Installation of the Newark plant was managed by an internal construction team, and the project included site grading, the installation of a mobile central-mix batch system, setting up trailers, and building on-site stockpile bins for aggregate.

Open since March of this year, the RexCon plant is strategically situated near Jersey City, the New Jersey Turnpike I-78, and Routes 1 and 9. With a capacity of 180 yards of concrete an hour, the plant can support an array of concrete mixes including foundational footings and high-strength applications. The RexCon facility complements an existing Silvi Materials site in East Newark, New Jersey and will be matched by more new branches down the road.

These days, Silvi Materials’ admirable work ethic and emphasis on quality is getting noticed. The company recently won the prestigious 2025 Excellence in Concrete Award for High Rise Construction from the Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Chapter of the American Concrete Institute (EPDACI). The team received this honor at a May 1 ceremony in recognition of its contributions to the construction of a 31-story concrete apartment building in Philadelphia. Silvi Materials provided ready-mix concrete for the building, which contains over 270 apartment units and five penthouse floors containing private balconies.

“To control heat of hydration, the foundation was poured using a custom 50 percent slag mix and a detailed thermal control plan,” explains a company press release. “From there, Silvi provided concrete for all vertical and horizonal structural elements.”

These achievements represent new milestones for a firm that was originally founded in 1947 by Laurence Silvi Senior. Over the decades, the team has taken on a slew of high-profile projects including the New Jersey Turnpike, the Garden State Parkway, and JFK Airport. Growth has been so significant in recent years that the company is looking to expand its corporate headquarters, a project expected to break ground next year.

Yet for all its success, the company leaders have not neglected the fun side of the business. When we spoke, Larry was excited to discuss a brand-new company concrete mixer outfitted in a striking Kelly green that matches the iconic throwback uniforms of the Philadelphia Eagles, as Silvi Materials has a partnership deal with the Eagles, who won the 2025 Superbowl.

In the midst of all this recent growth, Silvi Materials has also been undergoing significant internal changes including a massive IT infrastructure update. The update entails an overhaul of the firm’s customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) programs and is nearly complete. “Even though it was a long journey with a lot of bumps on the road, we’re on the one-yard line. When we first started this, one of the implementing companies said, ‘this is like ripping your central nervous system out of your body and putting in a new one.’ They were right,” Silvi says.

The IT overhaul fits with Silvi Materials’ technological and ecofriendly ethos. The firm has embraced a paperless office concept to reduce waste and established a cutting-edge e-ticket system that is centered on computer tablet data, not paper invoices. This high-tech mindset is also evident in company plans to establish a rail terminal in Ohio. Once operational, the terminal will have a rated capacity of 250,000 tons of cement a year and offer around-the-clock unattended loading in a process already in place at other facilities run by the company. “If you want to pick up a load on Christmas Eve at 9 p.m. and you’re registered and in the system, you can do it.”

The process runs as follows: a truck fitted with a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag pulls up at a company site. Camera systems take photos of the license plate and the driver. The driver’s credentials are run through the company database, and they enter a code that authorizes the emission of a certain volume of cement. When this level is reached, the driver receives an e-ticket which they sign for and then “he’s on his merry way,” Silvi explains.

Futuristic as this process might seem, it is comparable to filling up a car tank with gas at a self-serve station. The new plant will be based in central Ohio and should be operable “by the second quarter of 2026,” he says.

There are also discussions about using artificial intelligence (AI) to augment truck and equipment inspections. “You could set up a shed where you drive a truck or a piece of machinery through it, and AI takes a series of pictures and evaluates whether you’ve got worn hoses, whether you’ve got oil leaks, whether the piece of equipment is clean or not.” Plant managers currently do such inspections manually.

Significant proposed AI initiatives will have to wait until the company’s IT infrastructure is fully updated, however. “Once we get our ERP up and running, then we’ll go out and start evaluating different AI companies,” Silvi shares. “We’re thinking second half of 2026.”

Going forward, there are no plans to alter the company’s ownership status. Being a family-run business has worked for nearly 80 years, and company leaders see little reason to deviate from this path.

Indeed, Larry Silvi II forecasts a very bright future for the company. “I see us branching out further,” he says. “We’ll evaluate every opportunity as it comes up, based on population growth, ease of doing business, taxes, and labor.”

The post Cementing the Future<p class="company">Silvi Materials </p> appeared first on Construction In Focus.

Boasting remarkable power—up to 400 hp—with an impressive number of variants, the company’s pumps can easily manage heavy concrete loads and are uniquely effective and user-friendly. With pumps such as the 65-meter Z fold, the 40-meter roll fold, the 38-meter Z boom, the CML-100 HF truck-mounted, and the 40-meter Z-R fold, clients can find exactly what concrete pump they need for whatever project they’re tackling.

From high-rises, to infrastructure projects such as road and bridge building, to precast production, and even residential projects that include laying concrete for patios and driveways, Concord’s products, which include more than 1,700 machines currently in operation, save time and money by dispensing concrete exactly where needed, providing a perfect fit for the production process with prompt and consistent deliveries that allow clients to maintain their schedules without stress.

“In today’s construction landscape, uncertainty has become the norm,” says Vice President Lino Flores. “Across North America, contractors and builders are facing headwinds that range from increasing tariffs and material costs to a general slowdown in new projects. At Concord Concrete Pumps, we recognize the weight of these challenges because we’re feeling them too.”

As a company serving clients across both Canada and the United States, Concord understands what its partners are going through, toiling in the same trenches, navigating this shifting economy, and working tirelessly to meet expectations even as the playing field continues to change.

“One of the most pressing issues impacting our industry right now is the surge in tariffs, particularly on imported steel and essential components,” says Flores. “These increased costs ripple through every corner of the construction industry, inflating prices and forcing difficult decisions for contractors and suppliers alike.”

Of course, the correct tools can make or break a construction project, but Concord offers more than just concrete pumps. It provides durability, strength, and industrial knowledge, with 45 years of experience in the concrete industry and more than 25 years of experience creating its own equipment, so the team perfectly understands what it takes to work well under duress.

Embracing the aim of creating “operator-friendly” machines that are safer and longer-lasting, Concord’s boom pumps and placing booms function flawlessly in the field under all conditions, with increased worker safety and greater operational cost reductions for clients as top priorities. How does Concord leverage its new technology to reduce operating costs and save money? To the user, it is incredibly economical and will cost less to operate than the competition, but the real value doesn’t end there, because Concord pumps have achieved yet another feat: the demand for older, used units is outstanding, and, consequently, so is their resale value.

With machines that are made with more steel than their competitors, designed to be safe, and backed by a workforce that is aware of the demands of your work site, the company brings together the best people, best engineering, best hydraulics, and best steel. However, creating an industry-leading concrete pump at Concord requires more than just the parts; it also requires the strength of Concord’s people, the ingenuity and commitment that go into each machine, all aiming at producing dependable, high-quality concrete boom pumps that yield solid results.

The company continues to take great pride in being the go-to option for leading builders and concrete pumping contractors worldwide, continually striving for new ideas, attending to its clients’ needs, and creating long-lasting machinery. Concord has pushed boundaries since the beginning, introducing the first 40-meter boom pump on a three-axle vehicle in 2003 and winning a Construction Equipment Top 100 Award in 2006 for introducing the first 65-meter boom pump in the world. In fact, that original device is still in use today.

And when it comes to the company policy of “quality without compromise,” Concord stays true to its mission. “Despite the rising costs we face behind the scenes, we have not cut corners or downgraded materials,” says Flores. “Every Concord pump continues to be built with the same high-grade steel, reliable components, and industry-proven engineering that has earned us the trust of contractors across North America.”

Concord has continuously produced pumps that function in the most demanding circumstances while placing a high premium on operator experience and safety because of its emphasis on robustness, affordability, and ease of use. Being the only concrete pump producer with a facility owned and operated in North America is a true source of pride. The company also has total control over its manufacturing process within its three worldwide production facilities, located in South Korea, Australia, and Canada, the latter of which is where its headquarters are located.

While some manufacturers may opt for cheaper materials or simplified designs to keep pricing competitive, that’s not how this company operates, stresses Flores. “At Concord, compromise is not part of our process,” he says. “When you invest in a Concord pump, you’re getting the same rugged, reliable equipment we’ve always built because we know that in tough times, performance and durability are non-negotiable.”

That also includes maintaining a commitment to both Canadian and U.S. customers. From the job sites of Washington to the growing infrastructure markets of Eastern Canada, Concord’s customers are facing similar struggles: rising material costs, tighter budgets, and less certainty about tomorrow’s workload.

“At Concord, we want you to know we get it and we’re with you,” Flores says. “We don’t just ship machines; we build relationships that last. Our customer support teams are active and responsive across Canada and the U.S., ensuring fast parts access, technical expertise, and personal attention when you need it most.”

While the current market may be challenging, it also reminds the company of what makes this industry great: resilience. Concrete construction has always been and will continue to be about building foundations, and at Concord Concrete Pumps, the team is here to help lay the groundwork for what’s next. “We’re standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners throughout Canada and the United States, building tough, supporting hard, and making choices that put customers first,” says Flores.

One of the biggest events in the concrete industry, World of Concrete 2026, is coming up this January in Las Vegas, and Concord employees are already looking forward to and preparing for what promises to be a valuable experience. World of Concrete 2026 is an opportunity for the organization to celebrate its accomplishments, share experiences, and learn from one another. It’s also a chance to learn about new technology, network with partners, and showcase Concord’s inventiveness and reliability, with employees eager to participate, have amazing experiences, and develop as a team.

Looking to the future, Concord is determined not to stand still but instead embrace some ambitious goals in the years ahead, including expanding its U.S. service and parts network for faster response times and localized support, growing its footprint in emerging markets while maintaining strong relationships with longtime partners, and increasing training and education resources for its entire team.

What sets Concord apart isn’t just the machines—it’s the mindset, adds Flores. This means continuing to focus on and support customer-first decisions. “We make choices that benefit our clients, not just our bottom line,” he says. And Concord pumps are also built to last. “Our pumps are engineered for longevity in the harshest conditions.”

By maintaining both a global reach and local support for customers, Concord aims to deliver world-class service wherever clients are located. “It’s about integrity at every step: from design to delivery, we stay true to our principles,” Flores says. “We’re not just building concrete pumps. We’re building trust, strength, and a future we can all stand on.”

The post Concord Commits to Putting Customers First<p class="company">Concord Concrete Pumps</p> appeared first on Construction In Focus.

The company’s vast nationwide and international network of in-house and outside professionals supports its individualized service, ensuring customers receive a customized solution that suits individual demands built on a foundation of teamwork, creativity, and a dedication to quality.

To ensure every aspect of a project goes as smoothly as possible, Coreslab is committed to working together both on-site and internally, with an award-winning team that collaborates with engineers, architects, construction managers, and owners. From managing a constrained timeline and cutting waste on the construction site to creating and producing useful, aesthetically pleasing products, Coreslab goes above and beyond to pay attention to the details.

In order to provide the construction sector with cutting-edge solutions, Coreslab strives to constantly advance its technical know-how, works hard to ensure the success of clients’ projects, and is dedicated to quality in all it does. “The 50-year milestone for Coreslab Structures International is really a testament to the quality work they do and the relationships and the trust they build with their customers, specifically here, with our location. We’re so proud to be a part of Oklahoma City,” says Sales Manager Richard Owens. “We really do pride ourselves on being part of the community, building and growing it, and taking on new challenges.”

In fact, Coreslab Structures (OKLA) Inc. couldn’t have made it 35 years without the trust and the partnerships built along the way, he adds. “It really speaks to the quality of the work we do and the quality of the people we have here. We definitely view ourselves as partners here.”

After leaving a previous precaster because they only built “grey boxes everywhere,” Owens knew he wanted to instead build something beautiful. “That’s really what Coreslab here in Oklahoma City has given me the opportunity to do, to add to the beauty of Oklahoma,” he says.

One of those beautiful projects is Taft Middle School, which Owens refers to as a “jewel in the crown” of architectural work. “It’s just a gorgeous building.”

Comprising 388 precast pieces that are coming together to create a “safe and inspiring space for students and the community,” this truly unique project also includes a storm shelter and multi-color panels that will make the campus both welcoming and resilient for years to come.

“The original school was very Art Deco, and they’re keeping that front part of the school,” Owens explains. “We’re going to branch off into wings on both sides of it and behind it. Rather than knocking down this just gorgeous school, we’re getting a chance to add to it and expand on it.”

The project came about through a partnership with architects Butzer Architects and Urbanism, Lingo Construction Services and Coreslab’s outside engineering firm CEG, accompanied by the company’s own plant and production team. “When I started to take this project on, I wasn’t even 100 percent certain it could be done, but after some long nights and a lot of pre-planning, it’s coming together beautifully,” Owens shares.

Coreslab, he adds, works with a wonderful contractor who always says that what he is making is art. “When we were having a meeting on Taft Middle School, I’d remembered him saying that a long time ago, and I said, ‘I want to make art. I want to look at something and take my kid to it and be proud of it.’”

And with precast, anything is possible. Other notable Coreslab projects include a stunning parking structure for the Chickasaw Nation, as well as an outside parking garage for OKANA Resort & Indoor Water Park.

Destroying the notion that precast is inherently grey and unattractive, Coreslab is determined to impart the material’s worth and beauty further throughout the industry. “Precast is faster and stronger than your traditional tilt-up, and more versatile in the sense that I can get better color control,” says Owens. “That’s because our product is made indoors; therefore, we have way more control over variables like weather.”

Precast allows for use in a variety of different applications, he adds. “We’ve built churches, schools, parking garages, and a cheese manufacturing facility, which is a food-grade facility. Precast has so many uses and so many finishes. It’s almost limitless.”

In terms of ongoing innovation, Coreslab is now employing acid etching for its panels, which gives them a crisp, clean finish, maintaining the color of the concrete while giving it an almost sparkly finish.

“Precast really is the most versatile,” says Owens. “I come from a traditional sales background, and I got into precast almost by accident. When I talk to people about precast, and they say, ‘Why would you want to get into it?’ I say, ‘I can’t imagine anyone wanting to do anything else.’ Every day I’m going to see something that I’ve never seen before and build something that’s going to long outlive me.”

The challenge, however, remains helping other builders understand the numerous benefits precast offers, particularly those companies that are stuck using traditional products and don’t want to change their ways. “Some builders say it’s the way they’ve always done it, whether it’s building out of block or brick. Precast allows us to do a thin brick, for example, and we’re going to be gone in days versus months of construction time.”

Indeed, precast can be sold on price, schedule, and quality, he stresses, and it checks all those boxes in ways people don’t necessarily understand. There is also some misunderstanding about its cost, which is comparable when compared to other more commonly used materials. It can get more expensive when building high architectural structures, but it’s still affordable, says Owens. “I think when people really do an apples-to-apples comparison—a precast garage versus a cast-in-place garage—we’re going to be cheaper, we’re going to be stronger, we’re going to be faster, and what more can you ask for?”

It’s not just Coreslab’s products and commitment to quality that help keep it going strong; the company’s employees and the culture have combined to create a bedrock of experience, skill, and dedication. With a General Manager who has been there for 20 years, a Director of Projects of 20 years, and an Estimating team in Owens’ department with 40 years of experience, the depth of knowledge is impressive.

“Our engineering manager has a PhD; we’ve got drafters that have been here forever. We’ve got a gentleman who’s loved dearly, a man by the name of Dale, who has been at Coreslab longer than I’ve been alive,” Owens says, dating back to when the company was called Thomas Concrete. “With 43 years of experience, he’s that guy you go to if you need to find where something is located, or you need someone to tell you what you did in the parking garage in 1981.”

A rarity at companies these days, this commitment and care are what Owens truly appreciates, along with what Coreslab has to offer, both in its projects and its people. “I remember asking, ‘What is the culture at Coreslab?’ And it really is loyalty. Coreslab is very loyal to their employees, and in return, the employees are loyal to Coreslab,” he says. “We’re very fortunate in that we are a company that’s supportive. We’re very much a team here, and I’ve never asked someone for help and had them say, ‘I can’t help you right now.’ It’s always, ‘How can I help? What can I do?’”

Some of the biggest challenges Coreslab faces are similar to what the industry at large is seeing in the market, including interest rates that have “hammered” the private sector for development. Navigating those waters and being a little more public works-heavy, taking on more government projects than might be typical in a year, the company has had to pivot while still being there to service the private sector. “That’s really been the biggest challenge for us,” says Owens. “It’s kind of the same pain everyone’s had.”

When he looks ahead, there are some goals he has in mind, including being the first option in Oklahoma City when a building is planned. “I want architects to call Coreslab and say, ‘How would you make this out of precast?’ That’s my ultimate goal.”

In addition to celebrating upcoming company anniversaries, Owens also has high praise for the employees who choose to work at Coreslab. “I always go back to our people. No one can replicate our people, our team. That’s really what differentiates Coreslab Structures (OKLA) Inc.”

And the company must be doing something right, celebrating an impressive set of anniversaries with employees always striving for success and customer satisfaction. “I think it’s going to be a great year,” Owens says. “There are some wonderful projects that I believe we’re going to get that will plant a flag. I’m looking forward to those. They’re going to be projects that are absolute legacy projects.”

That legacy isn’t for Owens himself, he stresses. He came to Coreslab to build a legacy for the company itself for years to come. “It really is a great company to work for, and I think 99 percent of the people here feel the same way. It’s about that team and that goal.”

The post Beauty Built to Last: Creating Concrete Legacies<p class="company">Coreslab Structures (OKLA) Inc.</p> appeared first on Construction In Focus.

Designed and manufactured in Europe, alkus^® launched in North America in 2017, where it continues to be adopted by progressive construction professionals that appreciate the company’s value and performance. As Kenneth Clisso, Business Development Manager for North America, puts it, “I’ve been in the concrete forming business for about 40 years now and this is the best product I’ve ever had to sell.”

The alkus^® difference
alkus^® Innovative Systems come in two varieties: the AL, which is constructed with aluminum-reinforced polypropylene and is used for wall, slab, and special structural elements; and the GM, which is the company’s first iteration made from fiber-reinforced polypropylene.

Thanks to their material composition, alkus^® solutions have effectively replaced traditional wood formwork and eliminated the many challenges, issues, and rework that can result from its use. Unlike their wood counterparts, the polypropylene panels are impervious to swelling, rotting, and the frequent need to replace or repair, which is time and labor intensive and drives up overall costs.

alkus^® panels have been proven to last 1,500 uses and over 20 years thanks to their innovative design, their unique system of repair, and the seven-year warranty they are backed by, unmatched in the industry. However, in an industry that is typically slow to change, highly innovative products that shake the very foundation of how things are done often face resistance. But between the technical performance of the panels and the financial breakdown and sustainable nature of the formwork, their use becomes an offer that people simply cannot refuse.

“Initially there is some resistance because of price—and it’s not just our price, but the price of anything that’s innovative and anything that is a long-term solution that lowers costs in the long run,” says Clisso, noting that while initial costs are greater, over a 10-year timeframe, there are significant savings to be had.

Plywood needs to be replaced often (certainly more than once every 20 years), and with trade disputes festering around the world and the challenges related to softwood lumber, prices aren’t likely to come down anytime soon. There is also the issue of disposal fees cropping up in places like California where charges are incurred for things like heavy laden plywood, as well as the time and labor costs associated with transportation and disposal.

This is a non-issue for alkus^® as the product holds value on construction sites beyond their use as formwork, instead being repurposed as mudsills and shoring supports, which extends the life and value of the product.

The company’s European footprint has also been designed to be circular in nature. As Matthew Pescador, CEO, alkus North America, explains, “They’re actually recycling nearly 100 percent of the material. They take all the polypropylene, they’re able to separate it, and they regranulate it and feed it right back into the extrusion process. The aluminum gets bagged up and they send it to an aluminum recycling facility, and they actually get paid money for sending it back,” he shares.

“So the idea becomes, ‘How do we implement this worldwide?’ because green construction is the way of the future. There are limited resources in the world, and we have to be good stewards of the natural resources that are out there, so this is something we are looking to implement in the United States.”

A new path forward
Further to implementing a recycling plan in the U.S., there are also plans in the works to establish domestic manufacturing over the next several years to ensure that demand can be sustained and product can more efficiently reach the market, which is an important next step as the brand gains traction all over the world.

“Green is really the direction that construction is going in. That’s why a lot of these really big mega projects have to be LEED and otherwise certified; [project owners and builders] realize the implications for the long term,” says Pescador.

In Switzerland, green construction materials are mandated on projects, with non-renewables like plywood formwork outlawed, which is demonstrative of the progressive stance of the country’s construction industry to operate sustainably.

Governments in North America have the same opportunity before them to make legislative changes that support the future sustainability of the sector. Organizations like the ACI (American Concrete Institute) can be the voice of the industry in pushing for changes that could have a resounding impact on the quality of projects and the mitigation of environmental impacts. And while many early adopters and progressive partners have already made the switch to alkus^® solutions, writing them into project specs on countless projects, others can begin to follow suit.

For Pescador, the market potential is massive and alkus^® only needs to capitalize on a fraction of it to feel the impact—not only on the company itself, but on the customers who use its solutions to improve the technical performance and sustainability of their projects.

A winning solution
The team at alkus^® (and anyone who has used the product) knows that this formwork solution is second to none, and the company is working hard to ensure that the greatest number of construction professionals have access to it.

In addition to investing in the company’s production capacity, alkus^® has also added talent to cover a greater service area in the North American market with the addition of a new Business Development Manager for the south who Clisso has spent time training.

“They are being trained by Ken to capitalize on all the industrial work that’s going on there right now,” says Pescador. “That’s why we’re making the investment to hire, because we see that the demand is out there.”

Numbers don’t lie and when it comes to alkus^® solutions, the value embodied in the product and its performance is unequalled in the market. This is why it is the way of the future and the preferred formwork solution of many industry leaders around the world. To learn more about how alkus^® can save you money and improve the performance of your formwork, visit: www.alkus.com.

The post The Global Leader in High Performance Formwork<p class="company">alkus®</p> appeared first on Construction In Focus.

And although it’s easy just to purchase clear protective sealers, epoxy, or other coatings, knowing how to apply the product safely and effectively is something else. When customers choose and purchase one a Life Specialty Coatings product, they’re getting more than an outstanding coating; they’re getting decades of industry knowledge embodied in coatings that meet every conceivable need.

Building a brand
More than 60 years after its founding, Life Specialty Coatings maintains its commitment to quality and to family values. Now in its third generation, the company remains under the ownership of two families, with no intention of changing.

“One of our differentiators in the market is that we are still very much family owned,” says Marketing Manager Jorge Felix. For customers, this comes with many benefits, the human touch in particular. This personalized approach to customer service has been integral to the company since 1962, when friends William (Bill) Sibbrel and Robert (Bob) Benson—with backgrounds in sales and chemistry, respectively—came up with an idea: to create a new, Los Angeles-area coatings company, then called Life Paint.

Founded in 1963, Life Paint grew steadily, manufacturing and selling clear, oil-based wood sealers. In time, stains and solid color coatings joined the company’s product roster.

The coming decades saw the company continue expanding to meet customer demand, introducing formulations with latices (water-based latex), which were then combined with natural oils, resulting in durable hybrid coatings. Continuing to diversify, floor epoxies were introduced, along with deck stains and private-label products. The company has always been an innovator, refining formulas and producing top-of-the-line epoxy coatings, waterproofing deck systems, decorative coating systems, roof coatings, and more.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Life Paint recognized and seized opportunities in the specialty coatings market. This included adding waterproof deck coatings to its line of waterproof wall and roof coatings, along with stains, epoxies, and sealers.

In 2019, the owners decided that another big change was needed: the name. “There was a demand and a need to rebrand the company to showcase all the different products that we offer, so that’s where the rebranding Life Specialty Coatings came about,” says Felix. The move strategically positioned the business for future growth and innovation, and better represented its diverse product lines, which today include Life Deck Specialty Coatings®, Cool Life®, Life Paint®, Fire Fighter®, Americrete®, Stretch-Guard®, Lifetime Plus Coatings of America®, and Rain Shield®.

For customers, dealing with family-owned Life Specialty Coatings means not having to tolerate red tape, corporate-speak, and other issues often encountered at massive, faceless corporations. “The relationship with our customers is so powerful, and so direct,” says Felix. “That’s where we shine, and where we are different. We hear our customers, and since we are nimble, we can make changes as needed.”

As specialty coatings experts, Life Specialty often takes on niche projects that big-box stores can’t handle because of their capacity, size, or uniqueness. “We undertake those, and I think that being able to come up with solutions helps with our relationships with our customers,” says Felix.

For employees, the benefits of family ownership cannot be overstated. Staff members have direct access to Life Specialty’s management teams, and there is a symbiotic relationship between ownership and the dedicated people producing the products. Everyone is rowing in the same direction, and feedback often comes from customers to employees, and then to upper management. “The mentality is flipped around,” says Felix.

Beating the heat
To meet the needs of its many commercial, industrial, and residential sector customers, Life Specialty Coatings maintains a network of over 200 distribution partners across North America and ensures that contractors have access to ample supplies, including private-label products. Over the years, the company’s coatings have been used on projects for clients ranging from Knott’s Berry Farm, Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton to NASA, Boeing, the U.S. government, and many others.

Among the company’s many unique innovations is its Cool Life® 28 Series of Heat Reflective Coating Concrete Color Seals, ideal for walkways, patios, balconies, decks, and other areas experiencing extreme heat. These and other products are used by contractors working for some of the biggest hotel chains in Las Vegas, for good reason. Last summer, Las Vegas recorded its hottest day on record: a blistering 120°F (48.8 °C). Breaking the previous record, the City of Las Vegas wrote that 2024 peak temperatures “have taken even seasoned residents by surprise.”

The 28 Series Heat Reflective Coating can reduce the temperature of concrete pool slabs and decks by 25 to 30 percent. A 100 percent acrylic concrete and masonry pigmented paint sealer, it is formulated to reflect infrared and ultraviolet rays while resisting water, acids, and alkalis.

“This is a heat-reflective coating that helps reflect UV rays, and that reduces the temperature of the surface level,” Felix explains. “So when it’s reaching 110°F plus in Vegas, you don’t feel that intense heat on your feet. That’s the solution we’re able to provide to a larger, public scope.”

Pools are just one application for heat reflective coatings. Roof coatings, used for warehouses and massive commercial buildings, help keep interiors cooler, reducing air conditioning and energy costs for customers.

Supporting contractors and customers
Life Specialty Coatings believes in helping contractors and customers every step of the way and provides informative PDFs on its website. These documents provide detailed descriptions and valuable information on product features and benefits, usage, technical and physical properties, preparations and application, maintenance, and much more.

Along with clear, well-written instructions and extensive technical documentation, the company also makes life easier for its customers through its free Life Coatings app. Recently updated, the highly rated app is available through Apple’s App Store, and from Google Play for Android users. Its many features include a material calculator to determine the amount of materials needed for the job, training videos, the ability to choose from all Life Specialty Coatings brands—including Life Deck Specialty Coatings and Elastomeric Coatings—fast access to the company website, links to data sheets and specifications, and more.

“This app is ideal for contractors, DIY-ers, and estimating professionals who need to calculate material usage for their next waterproofing deck, decorative overlay, sealer, and epoxy coating applications,” says the company. Initially introduced around 2017/2018, the improved app is fast, free, and efficient. “And with just a ‘Submit’ button, contractors and applicators can see what kind of materials they need for their job site,” says Felix. “So if they already know what system they are going to use, it’s a very easy way to understand what they need to order from their distributor and vice versa. That’s the main objective.”

Along with the app, another point of difference for Life Specialty Coatings is its introduction of more technology-based solutions and information. Many have commented on how the company’s documentation puts it ahead of the competition. “Training is monumental in understanding how our products should be used,” says Felix. “We suggest certain ways to apply our product.” For customers, proper product application means longer-lasting results.

Coatings galore
Perhaps most impressive of all is the sheer number of products available from Life Specialty Coatings. With about 300 products, from paint to clear sealers to epoxy, the company continues working on new, innovative coatings that are even more durable, longer-lasting, and easier to apply on roofs, walls, walkways, decks, and other surfaces for all types of buildings, including warehouses, theme parks, and sports stadiums. The company’s range is simply unmatched in the industry. “I think that’s where we really shine,” says Felix. “We are a one-stop shop, whereas competitors may specialize in just one area.”

Long before products go to market, they are carefully made by the company’s team of 54 staff, which includes two in-house chemists, one as plant manager, the other the head of R&D. “So when customers come with a very specific need for coating, we have the capability of testing some of those products in-house and making sure they are optimized.” Depending on customer needs, Life Specialty Coatings will also do private manufacturing.

In business now for 62 years, Life Specialty Coatings understands its customers well, and the team continues to innovate and create quality formulations to meet their needs today and tomorrow.

“We have a definite five-year plan in place,” comments Felix, “and we’re excited to put it into fruition and keep growing our specialty coatings. Internally, we’re making sure we have the right structure and infrastructure, with more salespeople and more assistance in each department to help grow our company. With more technology and AI coming into place, it will really be fun and exciting times ahead for Life Specialty Coatings.”

The post Think of a Coating and This Company’s Already Got It Covered<p class="company">Life Specialty Coatings</p> appeared first on Construction In Focus.

WOC 2025 was one of the most successful editions in the show’s history, drawing approximately 58,000 registered professionals and more than 1,500 exhibitors. In 2026, organizers aim to further expand the platform for innovation, training, and networking, solidifying the conference’s standing as the premier international event for the trades that shape our world.

“The 2026 show is set to deliver even more excitement, featuring thousands of industry-leading exhibitors spread across the Las Vegas Convention Center’s indoor and outdoor exhibit space,” says Steven Pomerantz, Show Manager. “With new product reveals and world-class educational opportunities, WOC 2026 will be the go-to event for construction professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve and maximize opportunities available at this annual industry gathering.”

Along with the newest equipment, products, and services in the concrete and masonry sectors on display, this year’s show also offers an opportunity to learn about the latest developments and visit exciting exhibition areas such as Material Handling, a showcase of the latest equipment for trucks, excavators, and concrete placement; World of Concrete General, where attendees can explore products, tools, and services for commercial construction and the concrete and masonry sectors; and Work Truck LIVE!, powered by Modern WorkTruck Solutions magazine, all housed in the Central Hall.

“This area will help contractors transform their Class 2 to Class 7 fleets into efficient job site tools by showcasing the trends in storage, truck beds, hitches, trailers, maintenance software, power sources, and accessories that increase safety and productivity,” shares Pomerantz.

In the North Hall you’ll find The Producer Center, a comprehensive marketplace of batching software, materials, equipment, and plant equipment specifically made for the ready-mixed concrete industry; Technology for Construction, the innovation showcase featuring the newest software, robotics, artificial intelligence products, and estimating tools for the commercial construction industry from leading industry suppliers; Precast & Concrete Masonry, where you’ll find everything you need for the precast and concrete masonry sectors, from blocks and pavers to production equipment; and the Cement Production Pavilion, where visitors can explore the industry leaders in plant automation, cement manufacturing, and support services.

The South Hall will house World of Masonry, the hub for masonry professionals, featuring the latest tools, products, and technologies; Concrete Repair & Demolition, where visitors can check out the newest equipment for surface preparation, grinding, scarifying, and cutting; and Concrete Surfaces & Decorative, featuring a comprehensive collection of products for surface protection, cleaning, coatings, and decorative concrete.

Finally, the Outdoor Exhibits (Silver & Bronze Lots) offer a variety of live demos, heavy machinery showcases, and hands-on experiences with decorative concrete products.

But World of Concrete isn’t just about exhibits, adds Pomerantz; there are also one-of-a-kind events and exciting competitions to take in.

The SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® World Championship takes place January 21 at 11:00 a.m. in the Bronze Lot, where you can watch bricklayers compete for cash, prizes, and the title of “World’s Best Bricklayer.”

The Masonry Skills Challenge, January 21 at 8:00 a.m. in the Bronze Lot, features apprentice bricklayers putting their skills to the test in this high-stakes competition, while the Spec Mix Toughest Tender®, held January 21 at 10:00 a.m. in the Bronze Lot, is a fun race designed to determine which mason tender can set up their team fastest in preparation for the BRICKLAYER 500 competition.

The Western Star Trucks Get Tough Challenge, which takes place in the Bronze Lot during show hours, allows truck drivers with a CDL to test their skills on a specialized course for a chance to win prizes. If you’re looking for the MCAA’s Fastest Trowel on the Block, you’ll find it on January 21 at 10:20 a.m. in the Bronze Lot, where mason competitors will compete to build the best 30-foot-long wall.

In the outdoor Silver Lot, Decorative Concrete LIVE! will platform the latest innovations and products found in decorative concrete. The Decorative Concrete Experience, located in the South Hall during show hours, is presented by the Decorative Concrete Council & Concrete Polishing Council, and proudly sponsored by ASCC, DCC & CPC. “The DCC and CPC are teaming up again to bring you the Decorative Concrete Experience—an interactive, high-energy destination designed to inspire, educate, and connect decorative and polishing concrete professionals at every level,” says Pomerantz.

Additionally, the Scaffold & Access Industry Association is hosting the SAIA Scaffold Builders Challenge in the South Hall. “The Scaffold & Access Industry Association is excited to present the one-of-a-kind event at WOC 2026,” Pomerantz adds. “This is a fantastic opportunity for your crew members to showcase their skills and compete with the best in the industry.”

For more information, the EVENTS tab on the WOC website houses a complete list of current events (including times, dates, costs, and more) taking place at WOC 2026. “Attendees will maximize their time at World of Concrete with our exceptional lineup of interactive learning opportunities,” says Pomerantz. “Start your day with Breakfast with the Experts, where industry leaders answer the toughest questions in an intimate setting over a hot breakfast, with convenient 6:45 a.m. or 8:15 a.m. sessions hosted by Master Builders Solutions.”

And take advantage of specialist luncheons and forums to further your professional development, such as the Concrete Polishing Luncheon & Forum on January 20 to learn about the latest concrete polishing techniques; the Quality in Concrete Slabs Luncheon on January 21 to learn about proper slab surface treatments; and the forward-thinking 3D Construction Printing Luncheon & Forum on January 22 to learn how new building codes are transforming 3D construction printing.

“For every concrete and masonry professional, the 2026 World of Concrete Education Program offers more than 160 sessions of solid, in-depth learning options,” Pomerantz explains. These cover issues related to safety, project management, corporate best practices, and tangible applications for all skill levels, from novice to expert, and for all levels of responsibility. Every year, 40 percent of sessions are brand-new.

CEH (Continuing Education Hours)-approved session choices include 3-Hour Seminars, 90-Minute Seminars, 1-Hour Fast Facts, Spanish & Bilingual Seminars, 4-Hour Seminars, and Hands-On Training: Surveying and Interactive Workshops. “The prestigious WOC Master Certificate can be acquired when completing 12 CEH,” Pomerantz says. “The Emerging Leader Master Certificate, requiring 9 CEH, is specifically designed to build strong leaders for the future success and growth of the concrete industry.” Additionally, bilingual and Spanish-speaking lectures will be available daily, Monday through Thursday.

“The education program is designed for professionals at all levels, from beginners to experts, and across all roles within the industry, from field workers to business owners,” Pomerantz says. “Additionally, WOC will also be using the WORDLY platform for select educational sessions that will provide instant written/audio translation services for attendees in over 60 languages.”

Also be sure to check out Economic Forecast with Ed Sullivan and Pierre Villere, he adds. This unique Economic Forecast will provide guests with the strategic insight they require in an era of unparalleled economic instability. This is an exceptional chance to listen to esteemed economists as they present important market forecasts, new trends, and industry-specific perspectives that will transform the concrete industry in the upcoming year.

For engineers, architects, designers, and other professionals involved in the planning and building of concrete structures, there is also a brand-new session called Engineering: Designing for Constructability, held on January 22 and featuring topics such as building for constructability, avoiding common mistakes when building slabs-on-ground, and creating fiber-reinforced slabs-on-ground.

Bridging the Gap Between the General Contractor & The Engineer Workshop, a new, groundbreaking workshop, offers attendees a chance to learn how to transform their project outcomes through this revolutionary construction collaboration. Kim Basham, Cary Kopczynski, Mike Hernandez, Bryan Birdwell, and Jeffrey Coleman—all industry icons—come together to address the ongoing communication issues between design and construction teams that affect the success of projects.

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) created the Concrete Industry Management (CIM) program in 1996 after seeing the need for individuals with improved technical, communication, and managerial skills. On January 21, World of Concrete will again host the CIM Silent & Live Auctions, having proudly contributed more than $20 million to the CIM program’s fundraising efforts over the past 20 years.

With so much to offer, World of Concrete 2026 is simply not an event to be missed. “Push limits, smash barriers, and break boundaries,” all in a dynamic and engaging setting. To take advantage of early-bird savings and guarantee the best hotel rates through WOC’s official housing partner onPeak, be sure to register by December 12, 2025.

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World of Concrete 2026:
Exhibits: January 20-22, 2026
Education: January 19-22, 2026
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center
For registration and more details, visit worldofconcrete.com.
The WOC mobile app will be available for download in December 2025 on the WOC website.
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The post Cementing the Future of Concrete and Masonry Construction<p class="company">World of Concrete 2026</p> appeared first on Construction In Focus.

With a seasoned and trustworthy staff led by Greg, his wife Lora Tedesco, and President Tom Mourning, Tedesco Pacific Construction takes pride in having a devoted workforce of motivated, well-trained, and safety-conscious foremen and employees.

A concrete forming and finishing contractor that specializes in multi-level slab-on-deck projects and high-performance floors for large industrial projects, Tedesco boasts expertise in design-build tilt-up/cast-in-place, superflat F-number floors, specialty structural slabs and foundations, high square footage structures, multi-story residential and parking structures, and industrial, distribution, and business park projects. Tedesco is also certified by the FACE Company in F-numbers, a metric for flatness and levelness.

“Greg Tedesco founded Tedesco Construction in the ’80s, and he moved from residential curb and gutter in the ’90s into commercial work,” says Mourning. “I came on in the late ’90s to do all the tilt-up and commercial work as a project manager. After that, during the 2000s, the tilt-up market exploded, and we went from a company of 60 to 300 employees, until the economy eventually turned and we went back down. We rebuilt after that to where we are today.”

Looking to grow further, Tedesco has expanded into fresh markets. “Our models transitioned, mainly due to market demand, from tilt-ups and large commercial work to data center work primarily,” largely in northern Nevada.

“The state has really set itself up to be one of the main hosting sites for a lot of the big AI push,” says owner Nathan Esch. “It started a little bit before AI became a thing, with some data centers popping up just for general hosting services for companies. But the computing needs that AI is going to demand will require a lot more data centers, so that’s what everybody’s building right now.”

Tedesco began work on data centers at Apple’s campus about 10 years ago, adds Mourning. “Now the campus has become the hot and heavy data center park,” he says. “There are millions of feet of industrial space, and the data center work there is going to be probably 15 campuses, with each campus having 10-plus buildings.”

Unfortunately, a lot of the data centers—owing to how they’re built, their seismic and load requirements, and site constraints—are not conducive to tilt-up construction, Mourning explains. So those have become precast, or what are called insulated metal panels (IMPs), which are pre-built panels that stand on the exterior skin of the building.

“The original demand for tilt work, and one of the great things about it, was the speed and efficiencies with which you could build these big warehouses,” Mourning adds. This meant 50,000-foot slab pours followed by a number of panel pours at a time. Then, the exterior of the building, which is a lot of the structure, could be stood up within four days after being out there for six or seven weeks, whereas a steel structure building would typically take a longer amount of time to do the same size building.

Tilt-up is still working on making its name known. Fairly popular on the West Coast for some time now, it still struggles to find its footing on the East Coast. Chicago and the central United States is still more of a precast region.

“One of the big pushes into tilt-up came out of the shift from brick-and-mortar retail to e-commerce,” adds Esch. “You didn’t have as much storefront to store inventory, plus you needed delivery and last-mile infrastructure, so that drove a lot of the tilt-up growth in the early 2000s.”

“Nobody needs a storefront anymore,” Mourning agrees. “They just have a website and then a storage facility to transfer millions of pieces of inventory every single day.” A number of big box chains also adopted tilt-up building methods, largely because of the time saved in their construction.

While many of Tedesco’s upcoming projects are under tight wraps, there are numerous highly sophisticated data center projects in the works in the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center. The owners and developers of these projects are looking for more carbon-sensitive solutions in their data center facilities. Sustainability is becoming a bigger concern in all areas of building services, and owners and developers in general are looking to go green wherever possible. In many of these projects, where there are tens of thousands of yards of concrete in each building, it is possible to reduce their carbon footprint by including recycled concrete materials in the concrete itself.

“This has resulted in upwards of 35 percent of all the concrete materials and cement and cementitious materials placed on the jobs being low-carbon or recycled materials,” Mourning shares.

Paramount to much of Tedesco’s success is its dedicated staff and a low turnover rate across the board—carpenters, foremen, finishers, superintendents, and office staff. “We run a pretty tight ship in terms of how many employees we actually use on the jobs and in the office,” says Mourning. “The production is high, and turnover is low. Everybody has a good idea of what they’re doing and how they’re doing it, producing a good product in and out of the field.”

Mourning is being “pretty modest,” adds Esch: Tedesco’s average tenure for employees is over 20 years. “It’s a very tight-knit group that works very well together, and that’s a testament to Tom and his team, making sure they keep everybody fully employed and able to get work,” he says. This also means ensuring employees are fairly compensated and are happy doing what they do. It’s always been important for the leadership that as the company does better, the employees get to share in that success and put money away for their retirement.

“They have taken excellent care of their tradesmen over time,” says Esch. “When you go to a Tedesco site, it’s like the concrete version of poetry. Everybody knows what they’re doing. It’s a very quiet job site. Nobody is panicking. It’s a very impressive thing. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

The company has even transitioned to using no temp employees at all. “We have enough employees to staff the jobs and staff them with the right people, keeping everybody moving in the right direction,” says Mourning.

It is, however, still a challenge to find skilled tradespeople, adds Esch. “But when you have a good culture and a good reputation, the right people come through the door.”

The biggest challenge is assessing how the economy is going to affect the company’s future workload. “Even with the data center work—unless somebody pulls the plug on AI—it’s going to keep moving forward,” Mourning says. “But in terms of tilt work, the challenge is that everybody’s overbuilt to the extent where there’s probably a surplus of 20 percent of the warehouses out there that are vacant.”

Vacancy rates have definitely picked up, adds Esch. “You’ve also got capitalization rates going down recently. Everybody was used to a low-interest rate environment, and that’s obviously changed, putting a lot of pressure. General labor shortages throughout the whole supply chain have increased prices dramatically over the last five years.” Tariffs, of course, are also top of companies’ minds these days, now that much of the rebar and steel is fabricated offshore, while demand for cement has decreased to the point where none of it is being imported.

Even as the economy fluctuates, Tedesco aims to stay at the top of the marketplace as it moves forward, and the company’s dedication to quality work and customer service has resulted in multiple Golden Trowel® Awards, presented by Face® Construction Technologies, honoring the floor slabs that were the flattest and most level the world over.

“Our quality is a big part of who we are,” says Mourning, “staying on top of that and making sure we’re not missing a step and our work comes out as promised. We pride ourselves on doing a project where there are no callbacks and the customers received what they asked for or better than what they asked for.”

Success, he believes, all comes back to quality and Tedesco’s impressive history of employee retention. The company has proven its ability to evolve without losing sight of craftsmanship or culture. With a loyal, experienced team, a focus on sustainable practices, and an eye on emerging markets, Tedesco Pacific Construction continues to pour the foundation for a bright future, one expertly finished project at a time.

The post Laying Foundations for Success<p class="company">Tedesco Pacific Construction</p> appeared first on Construction In Focus.

Around 2016, Folsom Ready Mix established its own concrete lab and hired people with more experience on the commercial side, which is how the venture grew from a concrete producer for small contractors into counting public works and large commercial outfits among its clientele.

Across 2020 and 2021, Folsom Ready Mix expanded its initial California-based operations into Reno, Nevada, this time as a separate company named Silver Strike Concrete. Silver Strike is run by the same management team and back office as Folsom, but it does have its own sales and operations forces unique to Nevada.

In 2023, Folsom Ready Mix was acquired by The Farmer Companies, a construction materials producer based in Missouri and with worldwide reach. Derek Miller, President for Folsom Ready Mix and Silver Strike Concrete, says that its new parent company has helped the company not miss a beat with its customer service during the changeover: “We are much more stable being part of a large nationwide corporation while maintaining the same company culture,” he tells us.

Miller says that, throughout its considerable history, people have been a large part of what has defined Folsom Ready Mix, with many of its salespeople boasting 15 to 20 years of experience in the concrete industry. Miller himself came into the fold in 2016 and is one of many employees who bring a unique mix of both insider and outsider business practices and knowledge to the company. This is a part of a “many heads are better than one” approach that gives the company a broader perspective and allows it to succeed.

Innovation is another long-held value of Folsom Ready Mix; from the very beginning, Scott Silva preferred to be on the cutting edge, developing and welcoming valuable innovations. The company focuses on implementing relevant technology that gives its customers better service, produces a quality product, and ultimately, helps to grow the business. To this end, it has partnered with a Silicon Valley-based construction technology outfit, Handle, that is helping manage and streamline the business’ lean processes, leading to benefits for both staff and the end customer by facilitating a more streamlined payment process.

In its time, the company has implemented an in-house lab as well as quality software to help with concrete submittals. The team is also thankful for partner Verifi for its technology that assists in in-transit concrete management, as well as CRM (customer relationship management) systems that allow customers to receive their quotes and submittals quickly. Indeed, the ability to respond to last-minute customer needs as they arise using the technology the company has at hand goes a long way. “Our vendors describe us as user-friendly,” says Miller, a compliment that validates the efforts the team continues to make.

This year has been a packed one for the company, as it has undertaken projects like the Folsom Dam Raise with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, a quality-critical project that aims to reduce flood risk in the Greater Sacramento area. Similar work is being done on the Mosquito Road Bridge Replacement in the Placerville area in El Dorado County, California. Many of these projects also have strict timelines, so it is important that the team not only meets these quality expectations but that service be tight so as to save customers money and labor.

In October of this year, Silver Strike Concrete will be kicking off a project for an airport parking structure in Reno, a project that will require a great deal of experience, attention to detail, and service. Miller says that this type of work is challenging but rewarding to pull off—which the team typically does without a hitch.

Although Miller says that the company has been busier than ever, it has nonetheless been navigating challenging and inconsistent waters due to several factors including the current state of the economy, uncertainty around tariffs, and higher interest rates than in years prior. These elements have created a ripple effect on the specific markets the company works in as well as nationally, the latter of which is a newer concern since The Farmer Companies’ acquisition of the business. Thankfully, the Reno market has been especially busy in 2025, with many projects like parking garages, data centers, and multi-family housing being funded by private investment, painting a rosy future for the company.

Miller tells us that the new ownership has been open in its desire for the company to expand its geographical reach. There are no specific moves to be made just yet, but it is something that is always under consideration. Miller says that Folsom is as much a trucking company as it is a concrete provider, so the greater its geographical spread, the more it can expand its service offerings because of newfound proximity to available jobs. Since part of the company’s modern identity involves a geographical expansion with Silver Strike Concrete, it stands to reason that Folsom could find further success in other parts of Northern California.

Into the new year and beyond, the company will be looking to invest in new technology that will help both it and its customers reach their respective goals. Miller says that the team is hoping to work with a company that specializes in maturity meters, sensors placed in concrete that communicate to a monitoring device to determine concrete strength over time. The team will also be investigating investments and partnerships to monitor its product quality and add further value to customers. Folsom also plans to look inward at its company culture to make sure it is maintaining the right employees and skill sets, rewarding strong performers appropriately, and exploring new opportunities for expansion across the country.

Miller says that interest rates going down will hopefully cascade into 2026 and lead to a rebound in fortunes for that arena of the business and the industry overall. When homeowners struggle with inflation, interest rates, and wages, as well as tariff uncertainty, it can give people in the industry pause around starting projects like home-building (especially since materials like rebar, lumber, and cement powder are generally imported products in this market). Thankfully, this company has a group of loyal customers that value what the business provides; in fact, Folsom and Silver Strike have been a bit busier than many of their competitors who may not claim as diversified a customer portfolio.

“We are thankful for our customers because of their dedication to the company during tough times,” Miller says. Their loyalty is not lost on a business that has always been people-focused, in and out.

The post People-Focused from Day One<p class="company">Silver Strike Concrete/Folsom Ready Mix</p> appeared first on Construction In Focus.

From its base of operations in Georgia, iwi Concrete Equipment Group’s influence stretches across borders, helping clients in all sectors of the concrete industry—block, pipe, precast, ready-mix, and prestress—find the tools and expertise they need to grow. The company’s blend of family values, technical know-how, and forward-thinking innovation has made it a trusted name among concrete professionals worldwide.

The company’s story starts over four decades ago, when the fathers of current owners Richard Isaacson and Dan Faulkner partnered to start a used equipment business in the early 1980s. “The way it started was my father and Dan’s father actually were partners back in 1980,” recalls Isaacson. “Then they split up amicably, and I joined my father in ’89; it was just the two of us. We merged with Clay Warner and Associates in 1998, which brought pipe and precast experience into the company. The company was renamed ‘iwi group’ to reference the three original owners: Isaacson, Warner, and Isaacson.”

That merger laid the foundation for what would grow into a multi-generational enterprise. Faulkner joined the business more than two decades ago and eventually became co-owner alongside Isaacson. Today, the third generation has stepped in, with Dan’s son, Thomas, now the company’s Sales Manager, ensuring that the family tradition of hands-on leadership continues.

“We started with three people and now we’re up to over 16,” Isaacson says. “We’ve continued to grow, and we are now the leading broker of used concrete manufacturing equipment in North America.”

While iwi Concrete Equipment Group first made its name through used equipment sales, the company has steadily evolved to meet changing market demands. It now represents around 25 companies in the new equipment market, offering clients a full range of solutions.

“We’re global when it comes to used equipment,” says Isaacson. “We have independent agents all around the world who we work with. Concerning new equipment, we represent about 25 companies and have boots on the ground in the Southeast and East Coast. We’re looking to expand our footprint to cover the entire U.S. within the next year.”

That expansion is well underway, guided by Executive Director Tony Mills, who joined the company a year ago to strengthen vendor partnerships and build a nationwide sales team. “Over the last year, we have grown considerably and look forward to growing even more over the next year,” Isaacson adds.

This commitment to growth is not just about expanding market share; it’s about maintaining flexibility for clients across the economic spectrum. The company’s philosophy centers around helping every customer find the right fit, whether they’re investing in new, refurbished, or used equipment. As new machinery costs soar and sustainability becomes an increasing priority, the value of high-quality used equipment has never been greater. For many businesses, it’s a practical choice that combines performance with affordability.

“Some of this equipment, when new, is extremely expensive and the life of the equipment can be 20 or 30 years,” explains Faulkner. “If you can find a good, serviceable piece of used equipment, it just makes good economic sense.”

For some clients, used equipment isn’t just about saving money; it’s about staying flexible. To maximize the lifespan and performance of used machines, iwi Concrete Equipment Group offers parts, refurbishing, and technical support, ensuring that even budget-conscious clients can start their operations with near-new reliability. “We want to service all aspects of the economic range,” says Mills. “If they can afford new, they get new. If they’re on a tighter budget, we can bring old equipment up to near-new condition. Either way, our goal is to keep all our customers up and running.”

While the U.S. remains iwi Concrete Equipment Group’s main market, particularly for new equipment due to licensing and distribution agreements, the company’s global reach continues to expand. Roughly 30 percent of its used equipment sales are international. iwi Concrete Equipment Group works with agents across the globe who connect them with international customers. These representatives speak the local language, understand regional markets, and help facilitate smooth transactions from start to finish.

This international footprint is supported by a business model that focuses on brokering rather than direct ownership. “We don’t take title to most of the equipment,” Isaacson explains. “We simply put buyer and seller together, connecting the right equipment with the right people.”

Looking ahead, the company is set to expand not only geographically but also into manufacturing. Faulkner, whose background is in batch plant design and fabrication, revealed that iwi Concrete Equipment Group will soon introduce its own line of branded batching equipment. “We’re going to be introducing our own line of batching equipment within the next year,” he says. “Our plans are to expand that market on the manufacturing side.” This marks a significant step in iwi Concrete Equipment Group’s evolution, from a brokerage and consulting firm into a manufacturer in its own right. The company is confident that its decades of practical experience give it a unique advantage in creating user-focused, efficient systems designed by people who truly understand the industry’s demands.

Indeed, one of iwi Concrete Equipment Group’s defining traits is its depth of expertise. Every member of the team brings hands-on experience in the concrete industry, allowing them to understand client challenges from the inside out. “The expertise within our team really sets us apart,” says Mills. “Richard and Dan have been in the industry for decades. They’re not absentee owners; they’re 100 percent boots-on-the-ground, working alongside everyone every day.” This collaborative approach extends to weekly team meetings where sales staff, technical specialists, and management come together to share updates and insights.

This emphasis on continuous learning and collaboration has helped iwi Concrete Equipment Group stay ahead in an industry that’s largely evolving through consolidation and modernization. As smaller operators get absorbed by larger corporations, IWI remains committed to serving both, helping smaller firms grow while supporting major enterprises with advanced systems and global logistics.

“The nature of the business has stayed the same,” Faulkner says, “but we’ve seen a lot of smaller companies being bought up by big corporate entities. Some of that expertise disappears when that happens, but it’s cyclical. New generations are coming into the industry, and we’re here to help them grow.”

Although the concrete sector isn’t known for rapid change, evolving environmental regulations have driven new innovations in efficiency, dust control, and water recycling, all areas that iwi Concrete Equipment Group supports through its equipment and consulting services. “We sell equipment that helps meet government mandates like premium-efficiency motors and dust-control filtration systems,” says Mills. “It’s all about clean air and sustainable operations.”

By helping clients upgrade their existing machinery and integrate eco-friendly systems, iwi Concrete Equipment Group extends the usable life of equipment while supporting cleaner, more compliant operations. This approach aligns with the broader shift toward responsible construction practices, proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.

Beyond its business operations, iwi Concrete Equipment Group remains deeply embedded in industry associations and professional organizations. The team believes that participation in these groups isn’t just about networking, but about shaping the future of the concrete industry itself. “We’re members of a number of national and regional associations,” Isaacson notes. “That helps us stay ahead of what’s new and learn how we can be involved in setting the course for the future.”

These affiliations include the National Precast Concrete Association, the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association, the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, and the American Concrete Pipe Association, among others. Isaacson’s own contributions have been recognized at the highest level when he received the Robert E. Yoakum Award from the NPCA, the organization’s top honor. “That was a huge honor,” he says. “I’m still in awe of it.”

Isaacson has also recently had the honor of having an award named after him by the National Precast Concrete Association Foundation (NPCAF) in recognition of his dedication and contributions to the organization. “The Richard Isaacson Award,” says the NPCAF, “is designed to celebrate those who, through service, fundraising and leadership, make the Foundation stronger and ensure its success.”

Isaacson served on the NPCAF board from 2012 to 2018, including two years as Chair. “Richard’s passion, commitment, and leadership embody the very best of what it means to serve the Foundation,” said current NPCAF board Chair Greg Stratis. “Truly, we would not be where we are today without the dedication of volunteers like him. It is in his honor and with great gratitude that this award will carry his name.”

As iwi Concrete Equipment Group looks to the future, its focus is clear: expansion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to customer success. Over the last year, the company has grown its team, expanded its warehouse operations, and introduced new products like the Cgard Radar System for silo content management, a product developed internally.

“One of our biggest focuses right now is growth,” says Mills. “We can’t sit back and wait for economies to change; we’re getting aggressive and doing it ourselves. We’re not letting anything hold us back.” This forward momentum reflects the entrepreneurial mindset that has defined iwi Concrete Equipment Group from the very beginning, a blend of resilience, adaptability, and service.

At its core, iwi Concrete Equipment Group’s philosophy remains the same as it was when the founders started out more than 40 years ago: take care of the customer. “Going back to our roots, our fathers instilled in the company that you’ve got to take care of the customer,” says Isaacson. “I know that’s an old cliché and everybody says it, but we absolutely mean it. We take care of our customers, we take care of our employees, and we make it right.”

This people-first approach, combined with technical expertise and a bold vision for the future, ensures that iwi Concrete Equipment Group will remain a trusted partner for concrete professionals across generations and continents.

From a modest two-person operation to a globally recognized industry leader, the story of iwi Concrete Equipment Group is one of persistence, innovation, and integrity. As the company prepares to launch new products, expand nationwide, and embrace the next phase of growth, its success stands as proof that strong foundations, like concrete itself, can withstand the test of time.

The post Expanding Horizons – From Used Equipment to New Opportunities<p class="company">iwi Concrete Equipment Group</p> appeared first on Construction In Focus.

Today, all this has changed again. Thanks to visionary city planning and real estate developers like Luizzi Companies, community living is returning to its roots in the most stylish and modern ways imaginable.

Established by Carol and Peter Luizzi Sr. in the 1950s as a paving and driveway repair specialist in Watervliet, New York, Luizzi Companies has come a long way since then. Today, as a group, this dynamic team of real estate developers maintains several disciplines at once—and successfully so. Building its first apartment community in 2013, the company still leads with innovation and efficiency at a level that would be difficult to match in its niche.

A place to stay
Luizzi Companies is young, vibrant, and unafraid to be different. The result is a loyal following of fans of its work, enamored with its disruptive positivity, astute business culture, and explosive creativity. By cultivating the kind of communities that people don’t want to leave because of the comfort of their amenities and overall living arrangements, Luizzi Companies has built a name for excellence across more than one division.

As a self-sufficient company providing construction management and general contracting to private and civil clients alongside its real estate development portfolio, the Luizzi Companies team remains as trailblazing in its approach to property development as ever, and construction remains at the core of the group’s business holdings.

At Luizzi Companies, business is not all work and no play, either. Leading a team of creative folks, the firm encourages a sense of enjoyment in its office culture, which becomes a substrate for great ideas to flourish. “Our office setting is an extremely fun place. We’re happy to come to work. We enjoy seeing each other,” says Christian Luizzi, Construction Developer. “This atmosphere of having a great time at work gives us a competitive edge.”

Olivia Metchick, Marketing Manager, confirms this. “We all feel like family. It has that family atmosphere. It’s a very comfortable environment.” In response to this open-door culture, the team here relishes the freedom to collaborate with ease, bringing about solutions and ideas that genuinely set the company apart in everything it does. In turn, that means that it has more than enough exciting projects on the horizon to keep everyone engaged and inspired. With current projects well underway and future projects being discussed, the team has its work cut out.

Innovative projects
Over the next two years, several impressive projects are coming through the pipeline, with timelines ranging from one to six years to completion. These include an existing project in the village of Green Island, New York––the construction of a 200,000-square-foot warehouse for the state of New York’s Office of General Services. This should be completed within the next 10 months.

Also in Green Island is a 135-unit residential development called Factory Town Apartments. This waterfront property closely resembles a previous project, Starbuck Island, and is set to break ground in January 2025, with construction projected to take around 12 to 18 months.

Starbuck Island is one of the company’s most historic developments yet. This condominium-style mixed-use development of over $64 million came to life where the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers meet near Troy, New York on the ruins of an earlier landfill site. “Starbuck gives people that feeling of being in their own space, but it’s maintenance-free––it’s luxury,” says Metchick.

Moreover, Luizzi Companies is currently awaiting approvals for an estimated six-year project on 146 Marketplace in Halfmoon, New York. This mixed-use development boasts wonderful specifications with a 25,000-square-foot grocery store, a coffee shop, an indoor and outdoor seasonal atrium, plus much more spread across the 85,000 square feet of commercial space available. These outlets will serve the inhabitants of 328 apartments that form part of the greater community.

A small speakeasy bar is also in the plans—one of those “secret” or hidden little joints inspired by 1920s prohibition. There will also be a bowling alley, golf simulators, movie theaters, and a whole lot more. “We try to set ourselves apart with the kinds of amenities you don’t often see in these residential communities,” Luizzi says.

The team’s creativity even extends to free food, with regular food truck visits and small dance parties with DJs every so often. “Olivia and the rest of our team do an awesome job with doing all types of concerts and in-house parties and different events for our tenants,” he says.

Moving closer to home, the company’s headquarters form part of a larger property development, Lincoln Industrial, comprising several phases. It recently completed its first two phases, 1A and 1B, which include a 120,000-square-foot building that houses the state of New York Department of Labor, and Cargill, a food and food-industry supply firm. There are also 60,000 square feet of residential units.

In addition, four 15,000-square-foot buildings form phase 1B. Its next phase, currently awaiting approval, will include more office space and fabrication, warehousing, and other types of industrial buildings over another 500,000 square feet.

While all the company’s projects are innovative and special in their own way, West Mountain in Queensbury, New York promises to be one of the most surprising yet. The planning of this unique ski village is already providing the team with a lot of inspiration as its concept revolves around skiing in and out of each townhouse. The development is planned to be set along a mountain slope, adding to the adventure of skiing into the village, where a hotel, shopping, and warm hospitality await. The project is still 12 to 24 months away, but we will be keeping an eye on that one.

By creating communities where people are so at home all they want to do is stay, Luizzi Companies is putting an indelible signature on the New York real estate development scene. While its team of wizards may make it all look simple, hard work and meticulous concern for detail hold it all together. As part of this detail, the experience starts long before residents move in.

By investing in the latest technology, the company ensures that prospective occupants enjoy the pleasure of viewing units via the comfort of sophisticated, feature-rich touchscreen technology that gives them access to every available apartment, providing a breathtaking amount of fine visual detail—right down to the views they will have over the surrounding landscape. “We just recently started to implement that. This technology hasn’t been seen in upstate New York or the Northeast yet,” Luizzi says.

Sense of community
Attention to detail is not the only superpower that makes the world of Luizzi go ’round, however. Known for its unfailing generosity, both the company’s team and its local communities benefit from its success and support. Donating to organizations like Toys for Tots and others, handing out gifts of turkeys and hams to staff at Thanksgiving, and generally making everyone feel part of the family endow the company with its characteristic sense of largesse.

As people’s general sense of community strengthens in the recent post-pandemic cultural shifts around how we live, work, and play, Luizzi Companies is in step with what communities truly want. By developing properties that provide comfort, safety, and above all, community, this visionary team continues to dazzle rural New York.

The post Building Happiness Back Into Communities<p class="company">Luizzi Companies</p> appeared first on Construction In Focus.