Contractor Industry Trends

Construction cost trends, labor market shifts, material prices, contractor technology, and AI tools shaping how the trades operate in 2026.

• News · May 28, 2026

  AI Estimating Saves Contractors 10+ Hours a Week

  How AI estimating software is cutting bid time from hours to minutes — and what the top tools actually do for contractors.

• News · May 20, 2026

  EV Charger Installs: The 2026 Electrician Goldmine

  EV charger installs are the fastest-growing service for residential electricians. Pricing, top equipment, and how to bid them.

• News · May 15, 2026

  Heat Pump Installs Hit Record Highs in 2026

  Heat pump shipments now outpace gas furnaces. What HVAC contractors need to know about top brands, IRA rebates, and bidding.

• News · May 10, 2026

  Material Prices in 2026: Lumber, Steel & Copper Outlook

  2026 outlook for lumber, steel, copper, and asphalt shingle pricing. How contractors are protecting margins on every bid.

• News · May 2, 2026

  OSHA Silica Rule Update: What Contractors Must Do

  OSHA's 2026 silica enforcement update raised fines and inspections. Compliance checklist for concrete, masonry, and remodel contractors.

• News · Apr 25, 2026

  Stripe Instant Payouts Transform Contractor Cash Flow

  Why contractors are switching to Stripe instant payouts — same-day cash on accepted estimates and signed invoices.

• News · Apr 15, 2026

  Smart Jobsite Tools Every Contractor Should Try in 2026

  Laser measures, robotic layout, smart helmets, and AI cameras — the smart jobsite tools transforming contractor workflows in 2026.

• News · Apr 5, 2026

  Contractor Marketing in 2026: What Actually Works

  Google Local Service Ads, Nextdoor, and review automation — the contractor marketing channels delivering ROI in 2026.

• News · Mar 28, 2026

  Solar Tax Credit 2026: What Installers Need to Know

  The 30% federal solar tax credit through 2032 — plus state stackable rebates and how to position them in your bid.