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Mechanics liens, bankruptcy and secured debt
Nate Budde Construction & Building MaterialsOnce a party files for bankruptcy protection, all of the creditors have the same question: Will I get paid? In order to determine the likelihood of a creditor receiving payment from a bankrupt debtor, one of the essential factors to consider is whether the debt is secured or unsecured.
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Conditions improving in housing and home remodeling markets
Michael J. Berens Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesRenewed activity in the housing industry in recent months bodes well for interior designers and remodelers. Housing starts and sales have lagged for most of 2014, dampened by bad weather, world events and a mixed bag of unfavorable economic, employment and lending news. The latest indicators from industry groups, however, show business is gradually improving and is likely to continue to do so for some months to come.
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Construction companies should watch out for these 3 things
Nate Budde Construction & Building MaterialsThe construction industry is volatile, faces high failure rates and works on slim-to-virtually-nonexistent margins. While an increase in construction projects is generally good for companies in the industry, even that good news can hide dangers.
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Green building regulatory trends drive plastics use
Don Rosato EngineeringThe construction and operation of buildings has a significant impact on the environment. In the U.S., buildings account for 39 percent of total energy consumption and 38 percent of carbon dioxide emissions. Buildings also use a tremendous amount of natural resources to construct and operate.
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Smart home investments deliver boost to renovation industry
Bambi Majumdar Construction & Building MaterialsIndustry reports show that things are looking up for the home renovations market. What's fueling this growth? Many homeowners are starting to invest in energy-saving renovations, particularly in the attic and kitchen.
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Construction industry building toward a strong finish for 2014
Michael J. Berens Construction & Building MaterialsAfter a disappointing third quarter, the construction industry regained momentum in October, with signs pointing to continued growth in the months ahead. Indicators were up across the board, including employment figures, with most areas of the industry reporting notable year-over-year increases. Early forecasts are that 2015 will look even better.
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Dual laminates gaining in corrosive environments
Alan Kelsky EngineeringWhen it comes to the handling, storing and distribution of all types of liquid solutions within chemical manufacturing plants, composites enjoy a well-earned place for durability. In general, they are among the most cost-effective anti-corrosion materials used in the chemical industry today.
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Bioplastic applications rapidly developing across major markets
Don Rosato EngineeringThe bioplastics industry is experiencing a sense of arrival confirmed by a growing volume and variety of applications from disposable packaging to durable goods. Bioplastics are no longer viewed as a mere fad, a "green" public relations stunt or a feel-good ecoluxury. They are proving to be legitimate tools of the plastics industry.
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Managing risk in the construction industry
Nate Budde Construction & Building MaterialsThe construction industry is full of risks, from personal safety risks on construction sites, to financial risks and risks of business failure. Construction projects have several tiers, and every tier faces its own unique challenges and specific risks.
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Is high-speed rail finally taking hold in America?
Ryan Clark Transportation Technology & AutomotiveOn Oct. 15, the California Supreme Court declined to hear the most recent appeal against the state’s long-suffering high-speed rail project, thus clearing the way for further construction. And although the $68 billion high-speed endeavor could still face future legal challenges, for now the California High Speed Rail Authority can continue to move forward with a project that seems to be both a gift and a curse.
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