Residential Construction Spending Fell 1.3% in July
Residential construction spending fell 1.3% in July 2026. See what the Census data signals for homeowners planning repairs and local service pros.
News & Views
Welcome to News & Views, where we bring you the latest news and insights in skilled trades. Stay informed with current events, industry updates, and expert perspectives on the world of skilled work.
Canada Renovation Market 2026: Small Jobs Hold Up
Canada’s renovation market sits near neutral in 2026, but small interior jobs are holding up. Learn what the latest contractor survey means for your quote.
Canada Needs 469,000 Homes a Year by 2036
Canada needs up to 469,000 homes a year by 2036 to restore affordability. CMHC’s new report explains why homeowners and local pros should plan ahead.
Canada Building Permits Hit $8.1B in June
Canada building permits reached $8.1 billion for residential work in June. The data give homeowners and local pros a useful fall planning signal.
Dresser Recalls: Check These Models Before Assembly
Dresser recalls cover about 4,657 Alanca and Gizoon units. Check model numbers, follow refund instructions, and plan safe furniture assembly.
AI in Home Renovation 2026: 1 in 5 Homeowners Now Use It
Houzz 2026: 22% of homeowners use AI in home renovation planning, 52% of contractors use it daily. Where it helps, where it fails, why 80% still hire a pro.
Google Local Services Ads Just Changed: What to Know in 2026
Google Local Services Ads moved into Google Ads in August 2026 and the badge’s money-back guarantee is gone. What homeowners and pros need to know.
It’s a Buyer’s Market: The Repairs That Sell a House in 2026
New listings just hit a 4-year high and 46% of sellers give concessions. In a buyer’s market the cheap repairs decide who sells. What to fix first.
Super El Niño Winter 2026-27: What It Means for Your Home
NOAA gives a super El Niño winter 90%+ odds. Where it means roof leaks, where it means less snow, and what to book before the pattern locks in.
Mortgage Rates Hit 6.71%: Is the Fall Reno Window Closing?
Mortgage rates hit a 13-month high this week while HELOC rates hit a 2026 low. What the split means for paying for a fall renovation in the US and Canada.