Technology for Contractors - Articles

Leaks Happen. Here’s the ‘Why’ When They Do

From installation to maintenance, here's where and why piping systems are most vulnerable to failure.

May 4, 2026

Let’s take a closer look at the most common causes of leaks — especially in plastic piping systems — during installation, service and maintenance.

And So It Flows Podcast

And So It Flows: How AI and Gen Z Are Transforming the Trades

As conversations around artificial intelligence continue to dominate headlines, an equally important shift is happening in the skilled trades.

Kristen R. Bayles

April 23, 2026

In a recent episode of And So It Flows, Roland Ligtenberg, co-founder of Housecall Pro, joined host Kristen Bayles to discuss how AI, changing workforce priorities and evolving technology are driving renewed interest in careers across plumbing, HVAC and other home service trades.

Editorial Opinion | Kristen Bayles

AI can't fix a leak

Why automation may elevate plumbers, and other skilled trades, to the top of the labor market.

Kristen R. Bayles

April 23, 2026

A recent interview with the former CEO of Uber shows that jobs in the trades are on their way to being seen in a new way.

How manufacturers are reframing risk, resilience and return in 2026

In an uncertain market, predictive maintenance and domestic manufacturing are emerging as the new pillars of risk management and competitive strength.

Kristen R. Bayles

April 22, 2026

Bryan O'Toole and Paul Spradling weigh in on the state of the manufacturing market, and what it means for contractors.

How inspection technology is transforming drain work

Advances in camera systems are helping contractors reduce uncertainty, limit excavation and win more business.

Dave Dunbar

April 20, 2026

Contractors have found that, when used correctly, camera systems simplify their lives, increase their options, and pay for themselves very quickly.

The end of reactive service

Sensorization, analytics, and service model transformation is changing the way that contractors react to, and are able to prevent, disruptions of service.

Kristen R. Bayles

March 12, 2026

In a data-informed environment, plumbing and mechanical systems become managed infrastructure — visible, measurable and continuously optimized. Contractors who embrace that reality position themselves not simply as technicians, but as long-term asset stewards in an increasingly performance-driven built environment.

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas marquee in shades of purple above the AHR sign.

AHR EXPO

AHR Expo 2026: Hydronics innovation focuses on practical execution

Prefabrication, data center cooling and hybrid systems dominate show floor.

Natalie Forster

February 6, 2026

AHR Expo 2026 made it clear that hybrid systems are no longer an emerging idea; they are the answer to the ongoing balancing act of meeting decarbonization goals while remaining realistic about the grid's capacity for electrification. Manufacturers emphasized systems that combine electric technologies, gas-fired equipment, and advanced controls.

And So It Flows Podcast

Podcast: Speed, assortment and the art of saying yes: Behind SupplyHouse.com's merchandising and fulfillment engine

How data, collaboration and operational discipline power fast, confident buying experiences for today’s trade professionals.

Natalie Forster

January 21, 2026

In this episode of And So It Flows, Jennifer Harrison and Kaytee Gray from SupplyHouse.com discuss how digital merchandising and fulfillment are evolving to empower contractors with expert product information, simplifying decision-making in the field.

And So It Flows Podcast

Podcast: Real-time answers under jobsite pressure: How AI is shaping distribution

Natalie Forster

January 19, 2026

Lock Supply Co.’s Tim Savage breaks down how practical AI tools are accelerating quoting, closing knowledge gaps, and strengthening contractor trust — without replacing the human side of sales.

Person in business suit holding a stylus, tapping one of the virtual mobile app windows floating above the laptop.

What software is powering today's contractors

From paper to platform: a deep dive on the software that keeps today’s contractors on track.

Kristen R. Bayles

January 12, 2026

Software adoption has moved from being a competitive advantage to a core requirement — especially in the face of labor shortages, cost pressures and rising customer expectations.