Article: Contractors going back to wood for their structural projects: back-to-basics trend has more than environmental benefits.(Construction)

While some buildings are typically framed with metal studs, high steel prices and relatively low wood prices have resulted in a shifting focus in construction circles.

"People are going back to wood," says Tim Umbarger, president of the Vista-based general contractor Good & Roberts. The company specializes in commercial construction. It now employs 73--two less than a year ago--and has annual sales of $45 million.

Besides offering lowered prices, he adds, wood also sells itself as a renewable resource.

Still, says Umbarger, most Class A office structures are built with tilt-up concrete walls, and most high- and mid-rise buildings are built with ...

Related newspaper, magazine, and journal articles:

 
 
Newsweek Harper's Magazine The Washington Post Chicago Tribune Crain's Chicago Business PRNewswire Pediatric News The Nation Advertising Age The Economist (US) A FREE trial gives you access to over 80 million articles! Access over 6,500 publications with a FREE trial!