All the best, The Editorial Team We will keep adding business units that enhance our offering and separate us from our competition. “ ” Editor From The Dear Reader, Welcome to the latest issue of Construction Source Canada, the magazine that highlights the best in building and building products across the country. With this edition, we start the chapter on 2025 – on what’s sure to be a year of innovation, as the construction industry continues to face an array of challenges, and continues to play their part in addressing the nationwide housing shortage. Patten Homes is a great example of a company doing their part – as Ottawa’s premier builder of bungalows, semi-detached homes, townhomes, and two-storey homes, they have been building homes in their region for over 25 years. To tell their story, we caught up with Alyssa Stack, the company’s general manager. We talked about their role in the Cavanagh Group of Companies, the four Cavanagh communities they are building in now, and their intention to build between 150 and 200 homes per year in the future. Another company playing an important role in housing is Zetsen Homes, who operate in Camrose, Alberta. They have been building in their city and surrounding areas for over 50 years and three generations. We talked to third generation owner Garrett Zetsen about the company’s enduring legacy, their recent activity in the multi-family sector, and their vision for the future. We also talked about their passion for the City of Camrose and why they never want to leave. Also featured in this issue is Viking Properties, a premier developer and builder of multi-family communities in the Greater Victoria Region of British Columbia. They are also a family-owned company with a longstanding history of building in their region. In recent years, however, their work has greatly evolved in scope and scale. With their recent ‘Pacific Trilogy’ project, they delivered 122 town-home units. After that, they delivered their ‘Winster Court’ project in Langford, which included 68 units. Their next project in Langford will include 250 units. We talked to sales manager Jesse Forrest about all those projects and how they all contribute – or will contribute – to the betterment of their communities. For those stories and many more like them – about builders, developers, and innovators from all over Canada and beyond – just keep reading.
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THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA With a readership exceeding 145,000 senior executives, The Construction Source takes immense pride in providing an enticing platform to amplify your message to the most pivotal audience – your valued customers. Whether your aim is to promote an exciting new condo development, attract crucial financial investments for upcoming projects, or establish a commanding brand presence, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. To explore opportunities for featuring your company or showcasing your latest project in The Construction Source, please reach out to our Group Publisher. Jermaine Poulsen e: info@theconstructionsource.ca The Costruction Source Canada 202 - 1200 Bay Street Toronto, Ontario M5R 2A5 E: info@theconstructionsource.ca Executive Publisher Jermaine Poulsen COO Alexandra Box Editor in Chief Zach Janes Director of Operations Jacqueline Van Belois Derrick Pelley Director of Business Development & Marketing Tamara Breen Business Development Managers Mary Ann Taylor Douglas Thomson Marnie McGhie Production Manager Brennan Midghall Digital Strategist Pranim Thapa Administration Manager Belyn Quijance-Dorero
JANUARY 2025 PATTEN HOMES Exceptional living VIKING PROPERTIES Committed to the craft ZETSEN HOMES A history of high quality TRIFORCE Winning together EVAPORATIVE TOWER SERVICE Elevating Excellence: The Evolution of Evaporative Tower Service SMITH ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS Sustainable Soil Stabilization NDC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Tenacious building PRIME MOVERS RIGGING & INDUSTRIAL SERVICES Providing Simplified Solutions to Complex Problems AXIOS CONSTRUCTION Execution at the highest level PLAN B CONTRACTORS Plan better, build better, be better CANSIGN Canadian signage excellence INDUSTRY INNOVATIONS INCINERATING TOILETS IN THIS ISSUEJANUARY 2025 CANSIGN ZETSEN HOMES
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA PLAN B CONTRACTORS PATTEN HOMES VIKING PROPERTIES
JANUARY 2025 Industry INNOVATIONS MODERN & ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY TOILET SOLUTIONS
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA Water connection not required Requires little space No odour Easy installation No frost protection needed Secure for children ash to be emptied No waste handling, only and more Bunkies, For Home, Cottages, Shops, 3 - 4 visits per hour High capacity Propane&Electric models ABOUT CINDERELLA ECO GROUP Cinderella Eco Group is a family-owned company located in the north-western coastal community of Midsund in Romsdal, with deep roots in the beautiful Norwegian fjord-landscape. We have more than 20 years’ experience with the Cinderella Incineration Toilet, a water-free, ecological solution for the management of toilet waste. Cinderella, the natural first choice for those who place high demands on quality and functionality. HIGHLIGHTS OF INCINERATION TOILETS:
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Exceptional living
Patten Homes is Ottawa’s premier builder of bungalows, semi-detached homes, townhomes, and two-storey homes. For more than 25 years, they have been building homes within vibrant residential communities, delivering each one to a high standard of quality while always achieving exceptional value. Over those years, the Patten brand has become “synonymous with thriving communities and exceptional living,” says Alyssa Stack, the company’s general manager. “What allows us to stand out is our unique approach to homebuilding, one where high standards and quality are embedded at a fair price point,” she explains. “We are dedicated to offering homes that, when compared to the competition, stand out not just in design but in value and quality. Our approach is not just about homes – it’s about the people who live in them.” “Today, we’re proud of the hundreds of homes we’ve built and the communities that thrive under the Patten name,” she adds. As part of the Cavanagh Group of Companies (Cavanagh), Patten Homes is part of a legacy that goes back even longer than two decades. The original Cavanagh business, Thomas Cavanagh Construction, was formed over 70 years ago when the titular founder recognized an opportunity in the Ottawa region and purchased a single axle dump truck. In the decades since, the organization has grown significantly, expanding into all sectors of the construction and development industries. Historically, Patten Homes remained relatively small, as Cavanagh primarily developed and sold lots to other builders with Patten building on the remaining infill lots. In recent years, the owners JANUARY 2025
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of Cavanagh made a strategic decision to place a greater emphasis on homebuilding. As a result, Patten Homes has experienced exponential growth—and they show no signs of slowing down. “We’re in a growth period right now,” Alyssa says. “We are on schedule to close three times the number of homes this fiscal than we did in the last fiscal year. With our goal being between 150 and 200 homes per year.” Today, Patten Homes operates exclusively within communities developed by Cavanagh. Leveraging their in-house brands and capabilities, Cavanagh manages the entire process from start to finish – beginning with land acquisition, development approvals, and site servicing, through to sales, homebuilding, warranty services, and everything in between. With Thomas Cavanagh Construction as a trusted full-service provider of civil construction products and services including aggregates, asphalt, ready-mix concrete and forming, Cavanagh can even supply most of their own materials. This seamless integration allows the Cavanagh group to create and shape vibrant communities entirely under one roof. Alyssa explains that this achievement reflects the vision of Jeff Cavanagh, the company’s owner. “He envisions building full communities, from land purchase to warranty, through vertical integration within his group of companies,” she says. “And that’s exactly what we’re doing now.” Patten Homes is currently building in four communities: Shea Village in Stittsville, Huntley Chase in Carp, as well as Mississippi Shores and Coleman Central in Carleton Place. Shea Village will feature 441 homes across three phases, JANUARY 2025
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offering a mix of singles, bungalows, townhomes, and elevated towns. Huntley Chase includes 65 estate lots, ranging in size from one-and-a-half to nearly three acres. Mississippi Shores will consist of 264 homes over five phases, with a mix of semi-detached homes, bungalows, and twostorey designs. Coleman Central consists of 115 units over two phases. All four communities are ideally located, offering convenient access to nearby amenities. Shea Village, for example, is just steps away from a recreation complex featuring public swimming, skating rinks, badminton and basketball courts, a fitness center, a yoga studio, and sports fields. Additionally, Cavanagh Realty will soon develop Shea Circle, a commercial hub across the street that will include drive-throughs, grocery stores, and professional office spaces. Huntley Chase, meanwhile, offers residents the “best of both worlds – spacious estate lot living, but still within city limits. The community “close to all the conveniences and amenities you would get with subdivision living,” Alyssa says. Mississippi Shores is located near the beautiful Mississippi River in Carleton Place, just 20 minutes from the Ottawa suburb of Kanata. Here you can enjoy the small-town charm, the river, and the nearby park – “enjoying a quieter lifestyle just steps from the water,” Alyssa says – while still having easy access to all the city amenities and highways for commuters. Coleman Central enables easy access to Highway 7 for commuters while being within walking distance to the major Carleton Place retail hub. JANUARY 2025
The Patten difference No matter where Patten Homes is building or what type of product they are offering, Alyssa believes their commitment to client satisfaction sets them apart. One of the keyways they achieve this is by delivering exceptional value. As Alyssa points out, Patten Homes includes tens of thousands worth of upgrades as standard features – far surpassing what most other builders offer. “We offer beautiful high-end selections as our standard options,” she says. “Up to seven-inch-wide hardwood, 12 x 24 porcelain tile, quartz countertops throughout, kitchen backsplashes, AC, insulated garage doors, garage door openers – those are all included as our standards. With most builders, you pay extra.” “Our standard selections set us apart in one sense, but it goes beyond that,” she continues. “It is our mindset. We do not see Patten Homes as just a home building company. We see it as a customer service THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
company. We prioritize providing an amazing client experience. From sales to warranty, we strive to provide the best experience possible. We take the stress and worry out of the home building process so our clients can focus on their excitement.” “That applies to all of our clients,” she adds. “Whether they’re buying one of our elevated towns or an estate lot home, we want to ensure that every single client that comes through our doors gets the same level of care and quality experience.” That experience starts when the client walks into the Patten Homes sales office or model home. Alyssa explains: “We are not just trying to make a sale and get you to buy any house. We are helping you find the home that is the right fit. So, we sit down, we ask questions, and we listen. This enables us to determine what you need from a home and allows us to make the best recommendation for the model/community that will fit your lifestyle now and in the future.” “We don’t see the sales process as just a way to get people to sign on the dotted line,” she adds. “We see ourselves as partners in our client’s journey to find their new home.” “It is important to us to keep this partnership strong after the sale as well. We maintain communication with our clients every step of the way – from the sale to the meeting with our designer, through the building process, all the way to the closing day. At every stage, we are making sure our communication is frequent and transparent, to keep our clients aware of the progress on their JANUARY 2025
home and avoid any misunderstandings or surprises.” Of course, Patten Homes also focuses heavily on delivering a high quality of product – it would not be possible to achieve client satisfaction otherwise. Alyssa credits that quality primarily to the talent and dedication of their team, which includes their people in-house as well as their extended roster of trade partners. “We know that our biggest asset is our people. As a company, we support them and take care of them,” Alyssa says. “When it comes to our trade partners, our team does an excellent job of making sure everything is ready for them when they get to site. We give them the tools they need to give us their best effort. We want them to be able to get here and do an excellent job without any issues.” When it comes to selecting those trade partners, Alyssa emphasizes that they do not focus on just the lowest price. They look for quality and reliability in their trades. If they have worked together before, they look at how they interacted with the client and other trades, and they look at how quickly they responded to warranty items. If their experience was positive, and the reviews from clients and fellow trades were good, they cherish the partnership. One example of a well-reviewed partner would be Trudel & Sons Roofing, a reliable and awardwinning roofing service provider that works throughout Southern Ontario. They are a company with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and a long list of glowing reviews and testimonials from THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
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THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA past clients. For the last two years, they have been voted the “#1 Roofing Company” by the Stouffville SunTribune newspaper. They are highly valued by for their comprehensive service, competitive pricing, and the experience and expertise of their licensed professionals. As Patten Homes grows, Trudel & Sons represents the kind of partner they hope to grow alongside. Mjolnir Construction is another example of such a partner. Based in Ottawa, they specialize in designing and installing decks, fences, railings, and columns. Much like Patten Homes, they prioritize efficient communication with clients, and they are committed to ensuring every project meets the highest quality standards. Again, those shared values mark Mjolnir as a company Patten Homes hopes to collaborate with for a long time to come. “It’s important for us to work with quality trade partners,” Alyssa says. “We know if we want to be successful, we have to work with partners who care as much as we do.” Moving forward, Patten Homes’ vision is to grow toward their goal of 150-to-200 homes per year, while maintaining their quality of build and quality of client experience. Between their three current sites, they believe that target is very achievable. As these sites wrap up, Patten will be
JANUARY 2025 building west with land stores waiting in Carleton Place, as well as in other nearby communities such as Almonte, Arnprior, Beckwith, Prospect, and Aston. “We’ve got land in front of us for the next 10, 15 years, which is a great position to be in,” she says. As Patten Homes expands, however, Alyssa does not want to see the company lose sight of what makes them special. Even as they increase their volume, her goal is to keep providing the same level of client experience. She understands that will be a challenge, but she believes they are well-situated to overcome that challenge: “We’re going to learn how to grow in volume while maintaining what makes us unique,” she says. “I believe we have the team to do that. We are building a customercentric culture with people who have the right mindset. If we maintain that mindset, we will not lose sight of what makes us Patten.”
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA For more on Patten Homes, their unique process, their points of difference, and their current and future communities – and to contact their team today – visit https://pattenhomes.com/
Committed to the craft
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Viking Properties is a premier developer and builder of multi-family communities in the Greater Victoria Region. The families behind the company, the Skadbergs and the Gulbrandsens, have been building homes in the region for over 40 years. In recent years, however, they have evolved greatly in scope and ambition. Following the success of their 60-unit ‘Thetis Lakeside’ project in 2019, they changed their name and embarked on their threephase ‘Pacific Trilogy’ project, which collectively comprised 122 units. Moving forward, powered by what they call their ‘CRAFT values,’ their goal is to continue evolving and continue improving their community. “CRAFT is our motto,” says Jesse Forrest, Director of Sales. “It encompasses our relentless pursuit of quality, craftsmanship, and community. We all exhibit CRAFT.” CRAFT is an acronym that stands for Courageous, Resourceful, Accountable, Focused, and Team oriented. According to Jesse, those are the values practiced by all Viking Properties team members. And when they are hiring new staff members or evaluating new subcontractors, those are the values they look for. He breaks down what they mean to him: “Courage is being able to make the right decisions,” he explains. “Resourcefulness is being able to think on your toes and think outside the box in order to achieve a goal. Obviously, you have to be accountable – you have to be there on time and honour your word. Focus is something that can’t be waning and that you can rely on day-to-day – you have to know what your priorities are and get those done accordingly.” JANUARY 2025
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“And then team oriented is one of the most important things in my eyes,” he adds. “In our industry, you can’t really accomplish much alone. You have to be able to work well with other people. You have to be able to cohesively band together to achieve a common goal.” Viking Properties was originally formed under the name ‘Pacific Coast Land Company’ by Harry Skadberg and his father Jon. In 2016, they were joined by Ben Gulbrandsen, now the president of the company. Jesse is Harry’s son in law and joined the business about four years ago, right around the time they changed their name to ‘Viking Properties.’ That was also around the time they finished ‘Thetis Lakeside,’ which at 60 units was their largest project ever. Prior to ‘Thetis Lakeside,’ the company mostly did townhomes and low-rise developments in the 10-to-12 unit range. After that project proved to be a great success, however, they changed their focus. They then embarked on a three-phase development they called the ‘Pacific Trilogy.’ Pacific Trilogy 1 consisted of 31 units and was completed in 2021, Pacific Trilogy 2 consisted of 46 units and was completed in 2022, and Pacific Trilogy 3 consisted of 45 units and was completed in 2023. Pacific Trilogy 3 later won the ‘Award of Excellence for Multi-Family Condominium’ from BC’s Business Examiner. After wrapping up the Pacific Trilogy, Viking Properties moved on to a project in Langford called ‘Winster Court.’ That project consists of 68 units and was completed late last year, with the first move-ins occurring in November. Jesse cites that project as a strong example of the design JANUARY 2025
and quality excellence that Viking Properties has become known for. “First of all, it’s a fantastic location,” he explains. “It’s in an area right downtown in which the municipality wants to grow and wants to establish some more residential units. It’s a great location for people to buy, whether they are downsizers or young people who are buying a home for the first time and getting their foot in the door. It’s close to the highway, close to a lot of services, shops, restaurants – all that good stuff. It’s just the perfect place.” When it came to designing that building, Viking Properties worked with Alan Lowe, a reputable locally-based architect they have worked with many times before. When it came to the construction, Viking Properties acted as the general contractor, and again used a lot of the same partners they have been working with consistently for the last few years. “We really pride ourselves on using the same subs for each project, and we’ve been really successful in that over the past five years here,” Jesse says. “We’ve built some really amazing relationships with local trades and suppliers. They’ve become just as much a part of the team as anybody that we actually have on the payroll here.” An example of a closer partner would Canaus Drywall, a company based in Langford. They specialize in all aspects of drywall and finishing in the commercial and residential sectors, and they pride themselves on finishing projects on time and on budget. As a three-generation family business, they also have the experience and THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
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knowledge to successfully accomplish even the most complex tasks. They exemplify the level of skill and reliability that Viking Properties looks for in all their long-term subcontracting partners. Because Viking Properties has formed such strong relationships with partners like Canaus, Jesse says they were able to overcome a lot of challenges on Winster Court while still delivering an exceptional quality of product. “It’s a beautiful building and we’re really proud of the finished product,” he says. “And there’s something to be said about being able to take a project like that from start to finish in this climate right now. There have been a lot of projects in this area – and not just in this area, but throughout the country – that have been put on hold due to various circumstances. We’re so proud that we were able to make it from the start to the finish line in good time.” “We were not really delayed at all,” he adds. “We obviously ran into challenges along the way, but we really pride ourselves on pushing through and getting projects done at time, and that’s what happened at Winster Court. That wouldn’t have been possible without our subcontractors and suppliers.” Sales for Winster Court have been very strong, though some units remain available. In his pitch to prospective buyers, Jesse highlights the undeniable quality of the building, the competitive pricing per square foot, and with the undeniable appeal of the area. “We have a fantastic product just from the pillar to THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
post,” he says. “It’s built extremely well. We used high quality building products. The subtrades we used were all very reputable companies and they did very great work.” “Also, the area is amazing,” he adds. “Langford is one of the fastest growing municipalities in Canada, and there’s a reason for that. It’s our home as well. Our office is less than a five minute walk away. We work here, we play here, we love it here, and we want others to be able to enjoy it as well.” Moving forward, Viking Properties’ goal is to help the community they love grow even bigger and get even better. Their next project is another threephase project in Langford that will comprise three separate buildings with a combined 250 units. Jesse expects that project to take between three and five years to fully deliver and he’s excited about the impact it will make on the community. “I can truly say one of our biggest objectives is to grow this community and make this an attractive place for new families to live in,” he says. “We truly care about this community. We put a lot into it year to year. We sponsor the local football team, the local hockey team. We do a lot of work with the Salvation Army, with Habitat for Humanity, with the Food Bank. We really want to prove to this community that we are invested in the people that live here, but also the future and viability of this place going forward.” When it comes to growing the community, Jesse says they will be guided by the same CRAFT motto they have used to grow their company. To reiterate, that acronym stands for Courageous, Resourceful, Accountable, Focused, and Team Oriented. Jesse describes that motto as a “compass for us and for the community as well.” “I think we can all agree that those values are positive,” he concludes. “They might mean something a little bit different depending on the person who looks at them, but through whatever lens you look at them, they are positive things. They’re only going to work for the future betterment of this community.” JANUARY 2025
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA For more on Viking Properties, their story, their past and present projects, and their latest news – and to contact Jesse and other members of their expert team – visit https://viking-properties.com/
A history of high quality
Zetsen Homes is a family-owned-and-operated homebuilder based in Camrose, Alberta. For almost 50 years, they have been committed to providing clients with professional craftsmanship and exceptional customer service. Throughout their history, that commitment has resulted in a long list of industry awards, glowing client testimonials, and an unrivalled reputation in their region. These days, under the leadership of third generation owners Garrett and Lucas Zetsen, the company is dedicated to building on that reputation. “Our family has a history of providing high quality affordable homes and achieving customer satisfaction,” Garrett says. “That history means a lot to us.” “People in Camrose know the name Zetsen,” he adds. “It’s a name that’s been there for almost 50 years. Not many residential builders have been around that long. That means something to us. It’s very important to us that we protect that legacy.” Originally, Zetsen Homes was founded in 1976 as a partnership Andy Zetsen Sr. and Garry Zetsen. Andy officially retired in 1993, at which point Kevin Lindholm became a partner. Though Kevin wasn’t blood related to the Zetsens, he had been friends with Garrett’s dad since they were young, and Garrett calls him “a family member in our point of view.” Kevin still does some drafting for the company, but he officially retired about six years ago and leadership of the company transitioned to Garrett and Lucas. Garrett, for his part, has been involved in construction from a very young age. From the JANUARY 2025
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sixth grade on, he remembers visiting job sites and doing menial tasks. When he was older and officially joined the family business, he experienced the company at all levels, progressing from a labourer to a supervisor to a leader. He and his brother Lucas officially took over in 2023. These days, Zetsen Homes does a mix of spec homes and custom homes, and they work mainly in and around the cities of Camrose and Wetaskiwin. According to Garrett, what sets the company apart in the region is their experience. He says that no other builders have built as many homes in Camrose as they have, and that comes with a lot of advantages. “We have time and history on our side,” he says. “We know what works and what doesn’t. We know how to do things and do things well. We have the experience.” “We still use my dad,” he adds. “We call him our ‘volunteer consultant’ now – he’s not part of the day-to-day as much, but he has a wealth of information. If we want to ask him something or bounce something off him, we still call and get that advice. His experience is very valuable. There are not many people who have been building around here as long as him.” Zetsen Homes has also built trusted and longstanding relationships with local trades, many of whom are similarly experienced and similarly rooted in the community. “We have artisans and craftsmen that have been building with us for many, many years,” Garrett says. “We have people that have been with us for over 20 years. I work with a lot of the same people I first met as a little kid.” JANUARY 2025
The advantage of that longevity, Garrett explains, is that expectations are aligned. They know the quality of product that Zetsen Homes expects – and they know that if they don’t deliver it the first time, they will just have to do it again. “My dad had a saying he liked to use,” Garrett says. “He used to say, ’Build every home like it was your mom’s place.’ Because if you were building a home for your mother, you’d make sure it was done right. If you saw something was wrong, you wouldn’t let it go. You’d look after the little things. That’s how we act on all of our sites, and our subtrades know that. They buy into that.” “To be honest, the relationships we have with our sub trades are second to none inside the industry,” he adds. “We work very well together. It’s a hand-in-glove relationship. They are behind our quality. When it comes to our quality, I would say part of it is us, but most of it the people that we use and work with on a day-to-day basis.” One close partner, for example, is Rayz Gyproc Service (RGS), a locally-based provider of professional and efficient drywall services. The owner of RGS, Raymond Olson, has been installing drywall in the city for over 25 years, and he’s built a reputation in Camrose and surrounding areas for his professionalism, integrity, and reliability. Since forming RGS roughly 15 years ago, he’s built up a team that shares his values, and together they have made RGS a provider-of-choice for qualityminded builders like Zetsen Homes. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
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Rooted in community In recent years, Zetsen Homes has built a lot of rental fourplex projects, as in 2013 the federal government introduced a GST rebate on rental properties of four units or more. That incentive encouraged some rental property development in Camrose, and Zetsen Homes was eager to seize on that opportunity. Because those projects take a little bit longer to build than standard single family homes, they have been taking up a majority of the company’s time recently. Moving forward, however, Garrett says his goal is to keep doing single-family homes, and to keep doing a mix of them – everything from price point starter homes to full on custom homes. He also wants to keep building them in Camrose and Wetaskiwin and not venture much further, as those are the communities they want to support. “We’ve made the corporate decision to not grow past a certain THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
building area,” he explains. “There might be oneoffs where we go outside our normal radius a little bit, but for the most part that radius is really important to us.” “My father moved to the Camrose area when he was in grade nine, and he’s been a supporter of the community ever since,” he continues. “He had offers to move and join bigger companies, he had the chance to move himself and start his own company in different locations, but he loved the community of Camrose too much. The same goes for us. We’re part of the community here. We’ve set up roots in this area. That’s important to us.” “Our radius might adjust a little bit over the years and we might do some different kinds of projects, but for the most part, we’re where we want to be,” Garrett concludes. “We know what we want to do, we know how to do it, and we know where we want to do it. Our vision is just to keep doing it, and to keep giving back to the community we love so much.” JANUARY 2025
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA For more on Zetzen Homes, their awards, their past projects, and their projects for sale now – and to contact Garrett and his team – visit https://zetsen.com/
Winning together
TriForce is an expert roofing company based in Dieppe, New Brunswick. They specialize in waterproofing assets, and they are firmly committed to continuous improvement and staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and innovations. According to general manager Bobby Johnson, that commitment to always learning and always getting better is what sets them apart in the construction industry. By embracing continual education and investing in technology, he believes they are able to understand clients better, meet their needs more effectively, and respond to them faster. “Our team regularly take industry-specific and safety courses and we invite our clients to take part in training sessions to help them better understand their needs,” Bobby explains. “We invite our suppliers to give product knowledge sessions to our team.” “We use industry specific software and develop our own software tools to optimize our processes,” he adds. “Our virtual office approach means that our entire team has access to the same information whether they are on-site, in the office, or on the road, we all work together. Our collaborative approach with our suppliers and clients make us a key player during challenging projects.” “Purchasing equipment and developing software to streamline our processes is the key to our success,” he continues. “We believe in working smarter not harder. Embracing specialized software to the construction industry, developing specialized software for estimating, and using software to track our labour and inventory is all part of our innovative approach. These tools help JANUARY 2025
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our team stay on top of our jobs and to complete proper analysis in real time.” Bobby first got involved in TriForce – originally called GB Roofing – in 2015, when he purchased the company with his twin brother, Robby Johnson, and their father, Ola Johnson. Prior to that purchase, Ola had been a leader and an innovator in the construction industry for more than 20 years. At the previous company he founded, he helped to transform the construction industry in southern New Brunswick by being the first to use computer software in manufacturing wood trusses. He also introduced panelized walls and floors which is now common practice in multilevel buildings. Bobby and Robby both grew up working in the family business, spending their summers building trusses, delivering materials, and helping wherever they could in the yard. Bobby went on to study business management at Oulton College and later applied his experience and education to the company as an estimator, plant foreman, production manager, and plant manager. Robby, meanwhile, went on to study Civil Engineering Technology at NBCC. With his experience, education and collaborative approach, he became a lead account manager. In recent years, Ola has taken a step back and started his transition into retirement, leaving Bobby and Robby responsible for the day-to-day running of the company. Under their leadership, TriForce now works mainly in the greater Moncton area, within a three house drive from the city. For the right job, however, they’ll venture further – for example, they have done some projects in P.E.I., JANUARY 2025
and they are willing to do more if the project makes sense. These days, in terms of their capabilities, TriForce provides clients with a range of services, including: roof restoration, roof repairs, roof preventative maintenance, as well as waterproofing services for decks, parking lots, and foundations. When it comes to roofs, they work on a mix of commercial, single-residential, and multi-residential buildings, with project values ranging anywhere from $20,000 to over $1 million. No matter the size or value of their project, however, Bobby believes clients – especially locally-based clients – are drawn to TriForce by their reputation. Over the years, he says they have taken a lot of pride in building and maintaining a strong reputation in Moncton, and that has paid off in the form of referrals and repeat work. TriForce’s efforts have also paid off in the form of employee retention. Bobby says there are plenty of employees that have been there as long as or longer than him. He also says they have a lot of new guys, as the company has grown under his family’s leadership – he estimates they have grown over 20 per cent every year for the last four years, and he says they are still “ramping up” – but their mission is to retain those newer employees just as long. A lot of the same applies to TriForce’s subcontractors and suppliers – again, Bobby describes those relationships as longstanding, and he says those partners are vital to the company’s success. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
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“There are three things you need to have a good business – good employees, good suppliers, and good customers,” Bobby says. “Those are the three pillars you need to take care of, and we do. We respect our employees and suppliers and customers. We all work together as a team. We win together. That’s what our name from. That’s what makes us TriForce.” Currently, TriForce is working on the Three Sisters multi-residential development in downtown Moncton, which is a fairly prestigious project. That project comprises three 15-storey buildings near the Petitcodiac River, each offering a variety of apartments and special amenities. The goal of that project and developer Lafford Properties is to provide another level of “elevated urban living” to the city. Bobby says that TriForce is proud to be a part of that goal and he says their work on that project is a great example of the quality their company is capable of. Recently, TriForce also worked with NAV CANADA on an air traffic control centre in Moncton. Bobby is also proud of that project, because it demonstrated their company’s reliability – they were able to move fast on that project while still delivering a result that met or exceeded expectations. Moving forward, Bobby says the goal is to continue meeting and exceeding client expectations, mostly for clients in Moncton. He wants the company to keep expanding and growing, just not necessarily geographically, as they have such a good reputation in the city and they want to be able to take advantage of that. Rather than expanding into new markets, Bobby instead sees THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
a future where they expand into new products and services. As an example of that kind of expansion, Bobby says that TriForce recently developed a new preventative maintenance program, which will help clients extend the service life of their roof. By performing a thorough visual inspection, clearing drains, removing debris, and identifying issues that will need repairs, Bobby believes they can extend the service life of a roof by many years, ultimately saving the client greatly by delaying costly roof restorations and replacements. That’s a service they intend to promote heavily in the future, and they hope it will lead to even closer and longer-standing winwin relationships. JANUARY 2025 1-855-859-6199 BRUNSWICKLIFTRENTALS.CA BRUNSWICK LIFT RENTALS SAFE, RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE CONSTRUCTION RENTALS. SIMPLIFY YOUR CONSTRUCTION. EQUIPMENT RENTAL THAT YOU CAN COUNT ON.
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA For more on TriForce, their range of services, their roof systems and warranties, and their associations and certifications – and to contact Bobby, Robby, and their team – visit https://www.triforceteam.ca
The Evolution of Evaporative Tower Service
Evaporative Tower Service (ETS) is a dedicated division under H.E. Rickleman, an established name in the HVAC industry. ETS has carved out its own space by specializing in the service, repair, and maintenance of cooling tower systems, with a distinct focus on Baltimore Air Coil (BAC) products. Since the acquisition in 2018, ETS has evolved into a leader in the field, known for its expert knowledge and commitment to quality. The company’s unwavering focus on cooling tower systems has made it a trusted partner for clients looking for specialized service and expertise in maintaining these critical HVAC systems. Parker Carney, the president of H.E. Rickleman, has overseen the growth of ETS, maintaining its niche focus while ensuring that it aligns with the broader goals of the parent company. “ETS is the arm of our business that really focuses on cooling towers,” Parker explains. “While H.E. Rickleman is a broader player in the HVAC industry, ETS represents the pinnacle of specialization, focusing on the performance, repair, and service of cooling tower systems. This strategic focus has allowed us to develop a deep level of expertise and foster strong relationships with our clients.” Mitch Cross, general manager of ETS, brings decades of experience to the company. His role in fine-tuning the operations of ETS has been crucial in maintaining the company’s focus on excellence. “At ETS, we provide a full spectrum of services for cooling tower systems—from installation and repair to routine maintenance and complete rebuilds,” Mitch says. “The work we do goes beyond simply fixing issues; we strive to ensure that each system operates at its optimal level, delivering consistent and efficient JANUARY 2025
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performance.” Under Mitch’s leadership, the company has expanded its service offerings and refined its approach, ensuring that clients receive the best possible support for their cooling tower systems. One of the distinguishing features of ETS is its deep expertise with Baltimore Air Coil (BAC) products. The company is recognized as the exclusive authorized service provider for BAC products in Ontario, a position that sets them apart from competitors in the region. “Being the authorized service provider for BAC products allows us to provide our clients with a level of service that others simply cannot match,” Parker says. “We have access to OEM parts, warranty support, and a full understanding of the intricacies of BAC cooling towers, which gives us an edge in providing high-quality maintenance and repair services.” ETS’s service mechanics are not just technicians— they are true experts in the field. Many of them come directly from the factory where BAC products are made, giving them unique, handson knowledge of the systems they service. “A lot of our team members have spent years working directly on the assembly lines at BAC,” Mitch shares. “They’ve assembled these towers from the ground up, so when they move into the field, they already know every detail of the product. This level of expertise is something we pride ourselves on, and it ensures that we provide the highestquality service for our clients.” By bringing in factory-trained mechanics, ETS ensures that every repair or maintenance job is completed with the same level of precision and care that went into the original manufacturing of the systems. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
This deep expertise, combined with a commitment to delivering the best possible service, has helped ETS build long-lasting relationships with its clients. “A large portion of our business comes from repeat customers,” Parker says. “We’ve been fortunate to work with the same engineering consultants and mechanical contracting firms for decades, and these relationships have only grown stronger over time. The trust that our clients place in us is something we value deeply, and we work hard to maintain that trust with every project.” Mitch adds, “The nature of this industry is such that clients need to know they can rely on us, and that’s exactly what we deliver. When you’ve worked with someone for years and completed hundreds, or even thousands, of projects together, there’s a level of trust that’s hard to replicate.” This strong, repeat business is a testament to ETS’s reputation for delivering exceptional service. The company’s focus on maintaining high-quality work, clear communication, and long-term relationships has allowed them to become a preferred partner for a wide range of clients. “We’ve developed a reputation in the industry for our consistency and reliability,” Parker explains. “Our clients know that when they hire us, they’re going to get the same high level of service, whether it’s the first project we’re doing together or the hundredth.” Another key factor in ETS’s success is its commitment to maintaining close relationships with its vendors and suppliers. Unlike many companies that work with a vast array of suppliers, ETS has chosen to keep a smaller, more focused roster of vendor partnerships. “We’ve designed our business in such a way that we don’t work with just any supplier—we work with the best,” JANUARY 2025
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Parker says. “Our vendors are an extension of our team, and we’re committed to building long-term relationships with them. These strong partnerships allow us to provide the best possible service to our clients, ensuring that we’re using the highest-quality products and materials for every job.” Many of ETS’s vendor relationships go back decades, some even to 1953, allowing the company to lean on a long history of collaboration and trust. “We have some vendor relationships that span many decades,” Mitch explains. “These relationships are built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to quality, and that’s something that’s very important to us. We’re not in the business of just selling products; we’re in the business of representing the best products and providing the highest level of support for those products.” This selective approach has ensured that ETS is never spread too thin and can give each vendor the attention it needs to thrive in the market. As ETS looks toward the future, the company sees a continued expansion of both its service offerings and its market reach. “The construction market continues to grow, and we’re seeing more opportunities in both the service and installation aspects of our business,” Parker says. “We expect to see increased demand for our specialized services as more cooling towers require maintenance, repair, and upgrades. We’re confident that with our deep expertise, our strong relationships, and our commitment to quality, ETS will continue to thrive.” Looking ahead, Mitch shares a similar outlook, emphasizing the company’s commitment to sustainable growth. “The cooling tower service industry is only going to grow, and we’re well-positioned to take advantage of those opportunities,” he says. “As cooling tower systems continue to evolve, we’ll be right there, providing the expertise needed to keep them running smoothly and efficiently.” JANUARY 2025
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA To contact Parker or Mitch, or for more information about H.E. Rieckelman and ETS, visit www.herinc.ca and www.etsi.ca.
Sustainable Soil Stabilization
Smith Environmental Solutions, based in Saskatchewan, is a forward-thinking company committed to creating sustainable and environmentally friendly products for soil stabilization and dust control. Founded in 2021 by Ron and Brent Smith, a father-and-son duo, the company emerged from a shared vision to improve rural infrastructure while prioritizing environmental responsibility. Drawing from years of experience in construction, the founders identified a need for better solutions to address the unique challenges faced by rural municipalities and undeveloped roads across the province. “We had been working together for years, and after I changed jobs, Brent and I started thinking there had to be better ways of doing things—not just from an environmental perspective, but also in how we approach construction challenges,” says Ron. This insight led the two to explore innovative technologies and sustainable approaches to infrastructure development. A key factor in Smith Environmental Solutions’ success is its exclusive partnership with Cypher Environmental, a global leader in soil stabilization and dust control products. This collaboration enables Smith Environmental Solutions to offer effective, high-quality products backed by Cypher’s global expertise. As the exclusive Saskatchewan distributor for Cypher’s products, the company brings proven solutions to local clients, leveraging Cypher’s decades of experience in developing environmentally friendly technologies. “We’re excited to represent Cypher Environmental here in Saskatchewan,” says Ron. “Their commitment to sustainability perfectly aligns with JANUARY 2025
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our values. Their vision of always doing what’s right for the environment is exactly where we want to be, making it a natural fit.” Having quickly established itself as a trusted name in the region, Smith Environmental Solutions delivers products that not only protect the environment but also improve safety and enhance the quality of life in communities. Their flagship products, Road//Stabilizr and Dust/Blokr, are organic, biodegradable, and purpose-built to address two major construction challenges: soil erosion and dust emissions. Road//Stabilizr is a cutting-edge soil stabilization solution that improves the structural integrity of roads, construction sites, and various infrastructure projects. By binding soil particles together, it prevents erosion, minimizes maintenance, and significantly reduces the need for costly repairs. This product has proven especially valuable for Saskatchewan’s numerous unpaved and undeveloped roads, providing a long-lasting alternative to traditional gravel-based solutions. Meanwhile, Dust/Blokr, the company’s dust control solution, minimizes airborne dust on unpaved roads, industrial sites, and construction zones. Its advanced formulation adheres to surfaces, binding dust particles to prevent harmful emissions that can affect workers and nearby communities. By promoting healthier environments and reducing visibility hazards, Dust/Blokr helps make rural areas safer and more livable. By focusing on environmentally friendly solutions, THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
Smith Environmental Solutions is redefining how rural infrastructure is developed and maintained in Saskatchewan. Their commitment to innovation and sustainability ensures that their products not only address immediate challenges but also contribute to long-term environmental and economic benefits for communities throughout the region. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its operations. As Ron emphasizes, the products are not only effective but also eco-friendly. “Our products are 100% organic, which means they are safe for the environment and significantly reduce the ecological footprint of construction projects,” he says. This eco-conscious approach enables Smith Environmental Solutions to offer a safer alternative to traditional chemical stabilization and dust control products, which often pose risks to the environment and local ecosystems. Their environmentally responsible practices have helped them establish leadership in a market increasingly focused on reducing harmful chemicals and protecting the environment. Smith Environmental Solutions is also deeply rooted in a strong network of professional affiliations. Both Ron and Brent are certified members of Technology Professionals Saskatchewan and have been for quite some time. Ron has also served as an executive member on the Canadian Construction Association and as a board member on the Saskatchewan Construction Association. Brent has been involved with the Home Builders Association and the Ready Mix Concrete Association. “We make sure we have those contacts,” says Ron. “Plus, we are certified technical professionals, which adds to our experience as well.” The company’s dedication to customer satisfaction is another key factor in its success. Instead of focusing on transactional relationships, Smith Environmental Solutions strives to build longterm partnerships with clients. They take the time to understand each project’s unique needs and tailor their solutions accordingly. “We don’t just want to sell a product; we want to be a partner to our clients,” Ron explains. “We work hard to understand their needs and provide them with solutions that will last for the long term. Our focus is on relationships, not just transactions.” This philosophy has helped them build a loyal client base and a solid reputation within the industry. As Ron notes, this client-centric approach is crucial: “Honesty, integrity, and staying in constant contact are essential. If clients have issues, we’re there to help. When our products function as promised and clients are happy, we’re happy.” This commitment to open communication and reliable service is central to the company’s business philosophy. Smith Environmental Solutions has quickly become a go-to provider for rural municipalities and large private companies seeking costeffective and environmentally friendly solutions for infrastructure projects. The company works with clients such as Mosaic Potash and Next Gen Energy, as well as numerous private companies managing large lots. For many of these clients, Smith Environmental Solutions’ products offer a more affordable alternative to expensive asphalt paving. Instead, the company’s solutions stabilize surfaces and control dust for years, saving clients substantial costs in maintenance and repairs. The repeat business Smith Environmental Solutions enjoys is a testament to the effectiveness of their products and the relationships they build. Clients choose them not only for their highquality, eco-friendly solutions but also for their JANUARY 2025
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