Industry updates from January and February 2025 highlight shifting priorities in remodeling and construction. A focus on hiring practices, DIY adoption, and product innovation dominates the field. One article emphasizes the importance of vetting candidates for “cultural fit” alongside technical skills, noting that 68% of surveyed firms revised their onboarding processes in 2024. Greg Cummings, a featured speaker, argues that leadership in home improvement hinges on “transparent communication and measurable goals.” His Power100 rankings aim to spotlight CEOs who balance growth with ethical standards.
Related: New Rules Mandate Home Improvement Price Disclosure
DIY trends continue to reshape the industry. A profile of Sasquatch Contracting reveals how some remodelers are integrating client-led design choices into contracts. The firm reports a 40% increase in projects where homeowners contribute 20% or more of the labor. “It’s not a myth,” says the company’s director. “But it requires rethinking project timelines and risk management.” This approach aligns with broader data showing 32% of U.S. households attempted home improvement tasks in 2024, up from 25% in 2023.
Fred Case, a recently honored remodeler, left a legacy in residential design. His firm, Case Architects & Remodelers, is remembered for blending modern materials with traditional craftsmanship. A 2024 survey of industry peers noted that 72% of respondents cited Case’s work as a benchmark for quality in high-end renovations. His influence persists through mentorship programs linked to his firm’s current projects.
Related: 5 Safety Tips for Gas Line Installation in Your Home
Glen-Gery Corporation’s collaboration with architects on a new brick line has sparked interest in sustainable masonry. The product uses 25% less raw material than standard bricks, according to the company’s filing. Early adopters include firms working on LEED-certified projects. Christian Giannelli Design’s recent 7,500-square-foot remodel, completed in nine months, showcased the brick’s versatility. The project involved 12 subcontractors and required reworking the electrical system to meet updated safety codes.
Surviving turbulence remains a recurring theme. One firm’s experience with unexpected supply chain delays led to a reevaluation of contingency planning. “We asked the wrong questions initially,” admits a manager. The company now uses a three-tiered risk assessment model, prioritizing supplier diversification and buffer stock for critical materials. This approach reduced project overruns by 18% in the first quarter of 2025.
Related: Pro Remodeler Podcast Features Mark McClanahan
A 2025 industry report notes that 63% of remodeling firms plan to expand their service areas, driven by remote work trends. However, 41% express concerns about maintaining quality during rapid growth. One solution involves hybrid models, where local contractors handle site-specific tasks while centralized teams manage design and procurement. This approach is being tested by a mid-sized firm in the Midwest, with preliminary results showing a 15% improvement in client satisfaction.
