In This Issue
February 2026 | Volume 89 | Issue 2
February 2026
Volume 89 | Issue 2
Features
Expanded Metal Ceilings: Strength That Beautifies
Expanded metal ceilings combine strength, visual flexibility, and sustainability, giving architects and designers a high-performance material that elevates both form and function across a wide range of applications.
Attic Queen’s Rise Through Resilience
From job-site injury to industry advocate, Jessica Azarelo builds impact beyond attics.
Circular Ceiling Design Ceremony
A Minneapolis ceiling design at an American Indian Center incorporates elements of native culture and quiets ceremonial space.
Choosing Between Open and Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation
A clear, practical guide to the key differences between open- and closed-cell spray foam insulation—and how to choose the right option based on performance needs, climate, and building goals.
Insulating Metal Clad Buildings
Properly installed spray foam insulation can dramatically improve the performance of metal-clad buildings, but success depends on careful attention to substrate stability, preparation, and framing details.
Using Building Science to Design a High-Performing Building Envelope
Applying building science principles to insulation selection and envelope design helps control water, air, vapor, and heat for improved durability, efficiency, and occupant comfort.
The Next Leap in Commercial Building Performance: Solving Thermal Bridging and the Control-Layer Gap
Why commercial buildings keep underperforming—and how continuous, integrated wall systems can finally align building physics, codes, and construction reality.
Avoiding the Dual Vapor Barrier Trap—Why Mineral Wool Is a Smart Choice for Commercial Walls
Why understanding vapor permeability—not just R-value—can make or break the long-term performance of commercial wall assemblies.
The Impact of Acoustics in Creating Inclusive Environments
How thoughtful acoustic design can promote wellness, accessibility and inclusivity.
About The Cover
Jessica Azarelo, founder of Attic Queen LLC, has built a company rooted in problem-solving, resilience, and advocacy—both on the job and beyond it in the Tampa area. Cover photo by Alida Hernandez Photography LLC
Departments
Trade News
The latest news from manufacturers, dealers, contractors and more.
Product Focus
Product Focus on Waterproofing/WRBs/Rainscreen
Influencers
This issue's authors
If Walls Could Talk
Video/Podcasts Round Up
Product/Technology Buzz Guide
Industry Blue Book Index
Premium Sponsorships
Contact Us
Staff Contact Information
Columns
Publisher's Post
Why Trade Shows and Conferences Matter More Than Ever for Leadership Growth | Jill Bloom
Up Front
Checking the Fluid Level | Mark Fowler
Legal Insights
Software Agreement Clauses Wall and Ceiling Contractors Should Revisit | Trent Cotney
Advertiser Index
This index is provided as a reader service.
The publisher assumes no liability for errors or omissions.
This Month Online
Online Exclusives
“Green” on Paper, Underperforming in Reality: Why Buildings Still Miss Sustainability Targets
Stalled demand, unclear returns, and weak measurement keep buildings off track, yet experts argue AI-driven optimization can close all three gaps at once.
JLG Invests in the Future of Skilled Trades
Building talent, growing communities and upskilling craft professionals: JLG is rebuilding the trades from the ground up.
SFIA Announces its 2025 Excellence Awards
The association's Don Allen announced the winners in a live broadcast this November.
Cost-Conscious Design, Uncompromised Aesthetics: Mimicking Precast with EIFS
A case study in how EIFS can empower architects to meet aesthetic goals, budget constraints, and sustainability targets without compromise.
A Legacy of Partnership: FL Crane & Sons and GMS Build the Future Together
In the world of construction, success often depends on more than tools and blueprints — it’s built on trust. Few partnerships embody that principle better than the long-standing relationship between FL Crane & Sons and GMS. Together, these two companies have shaped skylines, strengthened communities, and set a standard for collaboration that runs deeper than business.
Designing a Dream: How One Building Science Expert Built a Climate-Resilient Home in the Arizona Desert
When Steve Easley, an internationally recognized building science consultant, set out to renovate his personal residence in Scottsdale, Ariz., it put his decades-long career spent both in the field and as an educator championing high-quality, efficient, sustainable building practices to the test. Easley and his wife, Susan Raterman, an indoor air quality expert, envisioned a home that could thrive in the Southwest’s unforgiving climate while setting a new standard for design.
Videos