In This Issue
December 2025 | Volume 88 | Issue 12
December 2025
Volume 88 | Issue 12
Features
Walls & Ceilings' Contractor of 2025
Oregon’s Western Partitions Inc. Chairman Mike Roach shares how five decades of family leadership, innovative prefabrication, and a people-first philosophy have kept WPI among the nation’s top specialty contractors.
Optimizing Energy Efficiency with Steel-Framed Curtainwalls
Steel-framed curtainwalls combine exceptional strength, slender aesthetics, and superior thermal performance to help architects design energy-efficient, airtight building envelopes that meet modern sustainability standards.
Ensuring Compliance: A Close Look at CBU Installation and Joint Treatment
The importance of strict compliance with ANSI standards and manufacturer guidelines during CBU installation, highlighting that meticulous framing, fastening, and especially proper joint treatment are essential for achieving durable, high-quality wall systems in construction projects.
Driving Drywall with Precision: The Best Screw Guns from Eight Leading Brands
Drywall screw guns from eight leading manufacturers bring unique blends of precision, speed, and comfort to drywall installers at every level.
Flashing Forward: How Innovation is Changing the Game in Wall Protection
Advancements in flashing materials—particularly clear acrylic and liquid flashings—are transforming building envelope performance by improving moisture protection, inspection efficiency, and installation speed, helping contractors meet stricter codes and tighter project timelines with greater durability and precision.
Using Expansion Beads in Residential Construction
While expansion beads are commonly used in commercial construction, strategically installing them in long or transitional walls and ceilings of residential homes can prevent cracks, accommodate structural movement, and even enhance fire safety, despite creating visible lines in the finish.
Bridging the Trade Gap: Can Gen Z Save America’s Skilled Workforce?
As baby boomers retire and construction demand soars, the next generation holds the key—if it can overcome stigma and outdated perceptions.
About The Cover
This year's Contractor of 2025 is Western Partitions Inc., of Oregon. Here, members of the company (including its Chairman Mike Roach, in the center) snapped in Coeur d'Alene. Photos by Ben Norwood | Photographer Quicksilver Studios
Departments
Trade News
The latest news from manufacturers, dealers, contractors and more.
Most Requested Products
Most Requested Products of 2025
Influencers
This issue's authors
If Walls Could Talk
Video/Podcasts Round Up
Industry Blue Book Index
Premium Sponsorships
Contact Us
Staff Contact Information
Columns
Publisher's Post
Finding Purpose in Uncertain Times | Jill Bloom
Up Front
Why Abolishing OSHA Misses the Point | Mark Fowler
All Things Gypsum
Gypsum Recycling | Brooke Fishel
Advertiser Index
This index is provided as a reader service.
The publisher assumes no liability for errors or omissions.
This Month Online
Online Exclusives
Cost-Conscious Design, Uncompromised Aesthetics: Mimicking Precast with EIFS
A case study in how EIFS can empower architects to meet aesthetic goals, budget constraints, and sustainability targets without compromise.
A Legacy of Partnership: FL Crane & Sons and GMS Build the Future Together
For decades, FL Crane & Sons has relied on GMS as a trusted partner, forging a relationship built on service, reliability, and shared commitment to excellence across the South.
EIFS Brings Kaleidoscopic Vision to Life at Kaleideum Children’s Museum
EIMA highlights the strength of EIFS in facilitating imaginative designs without compromising performance or longevity.
Redefining Form, Performance and Sustainability with EIFS on a Mountain Retreat
BLOK is more than a mountain retreat; it is proof of the transformative role EIFS plays in contemporary architecture. By addressing the challenges of site, climate, and design ambition, EIFS enabled a structure that unites sculptural creativity with high-performance building science.
Desert Sage Wall Systems Expands with Prefabricated Wall Panels as Construction Booms in the Northwest
Idaho-based Desert Sage Wall Systems is embracing prefabrication technology and tackling larger projects while continuing its 34-year legacy as a trusted plastering and EIFS contractor.
KAI Celebrates Latest Renovation of St. Louis Area
KAI has completed a $9 million renovation and expansion of the Chesterfield YMCA as part of the Gateway Region YMCA’s $59 million improvement plan, modernizing facilities to better serve the growing community with new fitness, wellness, and community spaces.
Videos