By Jesse Sanchez. 

NAWIC showcases how women across the industry are helping construction companies grow while addressing workforce challenges. 

Construction companies across the country are facing a clear and persistent challenge; a shortage of skilled labor that continues to impact project timelines, job capacity and long-term growth. During Women in Construction Week, companies like All Craft Exteriors are using the moment to recognize a group that is already helping address that gap: women working across both field and operational roles. 

Organized by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), the annual event highlights the contributions of women in an industry that has historically been predominantly male-populated. At All Craft Exteriors, those contributions are not confined to a single role or department. Instead, they are embedded throughout the organization, from siding crews in the field to leadership and administrative functions that keep projects moving. 

That range of impact is reflected in the experience of Micayla Reimers, who joined a siding crew after working in health care. Her transition represents a broader shift, as more workers from outside the trades begin to recognize the appeal of hands-on work with visible outcomes. “Like anybody new to the trades, she’s got a lot to learn,” her foreman Josh says. “But she’s coming along pretty good.” Head of production Matt Peterson adds, “Micayla started in October and worked straight through the winter. That’s not easy. I admire anybody who sticks it out and keeps showing up.” 

While Micayla’s path is individual, it reflects a measurable industry trend. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women make up roughly 11% of the construction workforce, with even lower participation in skilled trade roles. At the same time, demand for labor continues to rise, particularly in residential and infrastructure sectors, placing additional pressure on an already limited talent pool. 

Equally important, however, are the roles that support construction beyond the jobsite. At All Craft Exteriors, customer support representative Hayley Howard, accounts receivable specialist Lori Dondlinger, bookkeeper and human resources manager Ashley Wilcox and general manager Jewels DeCorsey each contribute to the company’s daily operations and long-term stability. Jewels is also a member of National Women in Roofing (NWIR), supporting broader industry efforts through education, mentorship and networking. 

Taken together, these contributions point to a larger conclusion. Expanding opportunities for women in construction is not simply about representation, it is a practical response to workforce demand and a necessary step toward building a more resilient industry. 

Learn more about how women are strengthening construction teams, expanding the workforce and driving long-term industry resilience from the ground up!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how the National Association of Home Builders’ 2026 forecast can guide exterior color decisions that prioritize durability and long-term value. 

The 2026 colors of the year are more than a style update. They reflect how manufacturers are thinking about performance, longevity and curb appeal in one unified approach. At All Craft Exteriors, those broader industry signals are viewed through a practical lens, especially when helping homeowners make exterior decisions that must hold up in Minnesota’s demanding climate. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the 2026 forecast centers on grounded neutrals, nature-inspired hues and deeper accent tones, with colors designed to feel intentional rather than temporary. 

That shift is especially relevant for exterior projects. In many states, siding and roofing are expected to withstand hail, ice and constant freeze–thaw cycles. Unlike interior finishes, these materials are not refreshed every few years. Once installed, they are expected to perform for decades. As a result, color choices must remain visually appealing while standing up to harsh weather and daily exposure. 

This reality explains why exterior trends evolve more slowly than interior ones. A roof’s lifespan often outlasts multiple interior redesigns. Siding must resist fading, disguise storm wear and continue to look aesthetically pleasing within the neighborhood long after trend cycles move on. In that context, color forecasts function less as fashion statements and more as indicators of which palettes manufacturers are developing for long-term stability. 

The industry response is already visible across major product lines:  

• LP® SmartSide aligns with the projected warm neutrals 
• James Hardie® siding supports saturated tones built for fade resistance 
• Exterior Portfolio® vinyl siding offers broad color flexibility 
• Steel siding complements cooler, metallic-influenced shades 
• Shingle selections from GAF and TAMKO® also reflect hues consistent with NAHB’s direction 

Ultimately, the most important factor is not trend adoption but durability. Exterior colors should enhance curb appeal, but they must also survive demanding conditions. When selecting materials in a climate where weather is rarely forgiving, long-term performance should help lead design decision. 

Learn more about how 2026 color trends point to smarter, longer-lasting exterior choices that balance curb appeal with proven durability in demanding climates!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Rapid winter temperature shifts can put your attic at risk for moisture problems. Here’s what to look for.  

Regions with harsh winters routinely push roofing systems to their limits as temperatures fluctuate sharply within short time frames. All Craft Exteriors works with homeowners across the region to identify moisture-related issues that often appear to be roof leaks but originate inside the attic, driven by condensation, frost and ice dams during repeated freeze-thaw cycles. 

In many cases, the process begins unnoticed. Warm air from living spaces rises and enters the attic, where it meets cold surfaces during subzero conditions. Moisture carried within that air freezes on rafters and roof decking, accumulating as frost. When temperatures rebound, that frost melts, allowing water to drip, spread and stain interior surfaces, creating symptoms that closely resemble active roof leaks. 

These moisture cycles accelerate when ventilation and insulation are not properly balanced. Modern roofing systems are designed to improve energy efficiency by creating tighter building envelopes. While beneficial for energy savings, reduced natural airflow can trap moisture when intake and exhaust ventilation are insufficient. Over time, repeated temperature swings allow moisture to build faster than it can escape. 

Heat loss also plays a role along roof edges. Escaping warmth melts snow higher on the roof, while colder eaves cause refreezing. Ice dams form as meltwater refreezes at these edges, forcing water back beneath shingles and into vulnerable areas of the roof assembly. 

As conditions worsen, warning signs become more visible. Frost on attic surfaces, water staining, musty odors and rusted fasteners indicate elevated moisture levels. Addressing these signals early helps prevent structural damage, mold growth and costly repairs. 

Effective protection requires a coordinated approach. Balanced ventilation, properly sealed insulation and controlled indoor humidity work together to stabilize attic conditions. Proactive evaluation helps ensure Minnesota’s winter extremes do not compromise roof performance long term. 

Learn more about protecting roofs from winter moisture with professional ventilation and insulation guidance today!

By All Craft Exteriors.  

Homeowners are responding to interest rates and housing constraints by upgrading existing homes. 

Homeowners across the country are choosing to reinvest in their existing homes rather than try their luck in a competitive housing market. Instead of buying new, families are prioritizing exterior upgrades that protect and improve value and long-term performance. According to recent data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and ProBuilder, this shift continues to fuel strong demand for renovation projects.  

All Craft Exteriors is tracking these trends closely to help local homeowners make informed decisions about roofing, siding, windows and gutter improvements that align with current economic conditions. 

1 - Interest rates dip again — A boost for renovation financing 

This week, the NAHB’s latest economic update reports that the Federal Reserve lowered the federal funds rate to 4%. A December cut is possible, but not guaranteed, with inflation still hovering around 3%. 

Renovation impact: 

Every small drop in borrowing costs helps homeowners move forward with exterior renovation projects like: 

• Roof replacements  
• New windows  
• Siding upgrades  
• Gutter systems that can handle storms 

Financing becomes easier when rates ease — even a little. 

Source: NAHB Newsletter

2 - First-time buyers are struggling, meaning more people renovate rather than relocate 

A ProBuilder report released November 4 shows the median first-time buyer is now 40 — the oldest ever recorded. First-time buyers make up just 21% of the market, and one in four home purchases last year were made with all cash. 

Renovation impact: 

Because of the fact that fewer people are buying and more people stay put, renovation becomes the practical choice. Additionally, when new homeowners do buy, they often arrive with less cash for immediate exterior needs like: 

• A roof near the end of its life 
• Drafty windows 
• Siding damaged by age or storms 

For many, financing becomes the key to getting these essentials handled right away. 

Source: ProBuilder — First-time buyers edged out of the market

3 - Rural migration keeps renovation demand strong  

A November 13 ProBuilder article reports that rural and near-rural counties gained more than 430,000 residents from 2021 to 2024 due to remote work. Specifically, growth has slowed, but it remains steady in metro-adjacent areas. 

Renovation impact: 

Many older homes are being purchased by new residents, and these homes typically need exterior updates first: 

• Aging asphalt roofs 
• Old wood or aluminum windows 
• Siding that’s faded, warped or storm-damaged 
• Gutters undersized for heavy modern rainfalls 

This keeps home renovation demand consistent and predictable. 

Source: ProBuilder — Rural housing market migration

Original article and photo source: All Craft Exteriors