Contractor Labor Costs Are Up 5%: The August Jobs Reports
Contractor labor costs are rising 5.2% a year. US construction added 22,000 jobs in August while Canada shed 42,000. What it means for your fall quotes.
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.
Home Repair Emergency Fund: 30% Have $500 or Less
A home repair emergency fund is the gap in 2026: 80% of homeowners had an emergency last year, 30% have $500 or less saved. What the fund should hold.
ChatGPT Ads for Contractors: Costs and Results in 2026
ChatGPT ads for contractors went global: $3–$5 a click, no minimum spend, open in the US and Canada. What pros pay, what works, what homeowners see.
71% of Homeowners Delayed a Repair. Here’s the 4x Bill
The cost of delaying home repairs is compounding: 71% of homeowners put one off last year, and 41% paid more later. Why fall 2026 is the time to catch up.
The 1% Rule Is Dead: Home Maintenance Costs $8,808 a Year
The average home maintenance cost hit $8,808 a year — double the old 1% rule. Here’s where the money goes and how to keep your upkeep bill down.
43% of Home Projects Went Over Budget in 2026: Why
New Angi data says 43% of home projects went over budget this year — and only 8% came in under. Here’s why estimates slip and how to protect your budget.
Labor Day Weekend Home Projects: The 2026 Booking Window
A new survey shows why Labor Day weekend home projects spike — and why 2026’s long weekend is the best time in months to lock in a pro before fall.
US–Canada Trade War: What Sept 8 Means for Your Reno
A 50% US tariff on Canadian plywood, doors and cement hit Aug 22; Canada fires back Sept 8. How tariffs on renovation costs land in both countries.
The Toolbelt Generation: Gen Z Is Choosing the Trades
The toolbelt generation is real: HVAC program enrollment is up 16.7% this year and Canadian apprenticeships hit a record. What it means for your next repair.
Wildfire Home Hardening in 2026: The Late-August Checklist
Wildfire home hardening pays off most in the last stretch of fire season. 2026 is running 185% of average — here’s the weekend checklist and what pros charge.