Trade Deficit Lowest in Nearly Six Years
Washington, DC, Feb. 11, 2009--The U.S. trade deficit narrowed less than anticipated in December to the smallest in almost six years.
Today's Flooring News
Keep up to date with the most recent news in the flooring industry. Today's News...As it happens! We update this news several times a day so you can stay connected.
Mortgage Application Volume Falls
Washington, DC, Feb. 11, 2009--Even as interest rates charged on fixed-rate mortgages dropped last week, the volume of mortgage applications filed fell 24.5% compared with the week before, the Mortgage Bankers Association said Wednesday.
Greenguard Certification Recognized by USGBC
Atlanta, GA, Feb. 9, 2009--The Greenguard Environmental Institute said that the U.S. Green Building Council has approved flooring certified to the Greenguard Children & Schools standard.
Mannington Resilient Tile Gets NSF Certification
Salem, NJ, Feb. 10, 2009--Mannington Commercial’s premium resilient tile flooring lines have been certified to the Sustainability Assessment for Resilient Floor Coverings, NSF 332-2007 Draft Gold Standard.
Republicans Oppose, Chamber Supports Stimulus Bill
Washington, DC, Feb. 10, 2009--An $838 billion economic stimulus bill backed by the White House narrowly advanced in the Senate on Monday over strong Republican opposition.
Stimulus Package Has Construction Winners, Losers
Washington, DC, Feb. 10, 2009--Homebuilders like Centex Corp., the second-largest U.S. builder by sales, would be among the biggest winners under the $838 billion stimulus measure the U.S. Senate is poised to pass today.
Interest Rising in Do-It-Yourself Home Projects
Atlanta, GA, Feb. 10, 2009--With more consumers feeling the effects of the economic downturn, the popularity of clinics and classes in home repair and home maintenance seems to be on the rise.
James Halstead Buys Large Plant
Oldham, England, Feb. 10, 2009--A massive 286,000 square foot site in Oldham has been purchased by flooring giant James Halstead in a $7.8 million deal.
Commercial Real Estate Lending Needs Boost
Washington, DC, Feb. 10, 2009--A severe lack of credit threatens commercial real estate and poses significant risks for the whole economy, according to a National Association of Realtors work group.
Designer Tile Taking Share from Marble in India
New Delhi, India, Feb. 10, 2009--As marble prices begin to pinch purses, designer tiles are making deeper inroads into urban Indian homes. And they are getting more designer makeovers to suit market demands.