Contractor Corner - Blunier Builders

We love connecting with our contractor partners to learn more about their businesses, their projects, and upcoming trends. Blunier Builders, based in Washington, IL is a long-time McElroy Metal customer, and we enjoyed hearing about their growth and the shifts they are seeing in the industry.

Eric, could you tell us about your background and the company?

I've been with Blunier Builders for 11 years, and it's changed a lot since I started. We began by focusing on farm buildings, but now we're doing a lot of commercial work along with agricultural buildings. This diversification has helped us grow consistently. I'm in charge of sales and human resources, which keeps me busy. We have a fantastic team, and surrounding ourselves with talented people has been critical to our success.

It's interesting that you handle both sales and human resources. How do you manage that?

A lot of human resources work involves sales. People often see HR as the department that deals with problems, but we focus on coaching and fostering a positive culture. We aim to help our employees succeed and achieve their goals, which in turn helps our company thrive. It's about creating a supportive environment where everyone can grow.

Recruiting and retaining good people is a common challenge. How do you address this?

We start by engaging with young people, visiting schools, and discussing the trades. We create growth plans for each employee, outlining their goals and how we can help them achieve these. Our company has a growth mindset, focusing on opportunities rather than just chasing revenue. We also have a successful referral program that incentivizes our employees to refer new hires.

Can you explain the transition from agricultural buildings to other structures?

Initially, we had a small team and limited capacity. But we saw an opportunity to general contract post-frame buildings, something few were doing. We expanded our capabilities by hiring experienced project managers from various fields, which allowed us to take on more complex projects. This growth mindset has enabled us to handle diverse building projects, from large commercial spaces to intricate custom designs.

What makes post-frame buildings special, and what are their advantages?

Many think post-frame buildings can only be one thing, but we've completed projects that are 200 feet wide. Post-frame is just a framing style that often features steel exteriors. We can design buildings to look however you want, such as an upcoming fully brick-clad project. The main advantages include faster construction, cost-effectiveness, better insulation, and the creation of wide-open spaces without interior supports.

What trends are you seeing in post-frame construction?

We're seeing a rise in multi-purpose buildings, like homes with attached sports facilities or large entertainment spaces. The barn-dominium market is growing, offering oversized spaces connected to living areas. Commercial post-frame projects are also increasing, with businesses recognizing the cost and time benefits.

Are there any common misconceptions about post-frame buildings?

Initially, people thought barndominiums were temporary homes because of their wooden posts.

People used to view them as sheds, and they didn’t want to live in sheds, but now they are being considered luxury homes with high-end finishes and wide open spaces.

Modern designs incorporate concrete foundations, making them durable and permanent. Proper construction techniques also address concerns about maintenance, noise, and insulation.

As post-frame buildings become more mainstream, these misconceptions are fading.

What's it like working with McElroy Metal?

They are fantastic partners. They gave our owners credit when he first started, and we've had a strong relationship ever since. They are responsive, talented, and always willing to help us tackle new challenges.

What are your thoughts on the current economy and its impact on the industry?

The home market is slowing, but the barndominium market remains strong due to different buyer demographics. The agricultural sector is facing challenges, but we expect it to rebound. The commercial post-frame market is robust, driven by cost and efficiency benefits. Overall, the industry is resilient, and we continue to see growth opportunities.

Any advice for other post-frame builders?

Don't be afraid to innovate and expand your capabilities. Work with partners like McElroy Metal, who provide valuable support and expertise. We can elevate the entire post-frame industry by pushing the boundaries and competing with other construction methods.

Tell us more about some of your most challenging projects and how you approached them.

One of our most challenging projects was a 200-foot-wide building. Typically, this would be considered a job for steel structures, but we constructed it using wood. This involved meticulous planning and innovative engineering solutions. Another example is our work on a Jupiter Machine Tool building, which, when completed, people couldn’t believe it was post-frame. These projects highlight our ability to push the boundaries of what's possible with post-frame construction.

What innovative features or customizations have you incorporated into your buildings?

We’ve customized our projects to meet our clients’ needs. For example, we're building a fully brick-clad post-frame structure, incorporating large hydraulic doors for indoor-outdoor living spaces. We've also added architectural details like cedar trusses and sunshades to give our commercial buildings a unique look. Each project is an opportunity to showcase the versatility and potential of post-frame construction.

How do you see the future of post-frame construction evolving?

The future is bright for post-frame construction. I see more integration of sustainable building practices and materials, making these structures even more appealing. We are also likely to see further advancements in design flexibility, allowing for more complex and aesthetically pleasing buildings. As the industry grows, we need to continue educating the market about the benefits of post-frame and pushing the limits of what we can achieve.

What role do partnerships play in your success?

Partnerships are crucial. Our relationship with McElroy Metal is a prime example. They have supported us since the beginning, offering materials, technical support, and innovative solutions. Such partnerships allow us to take on challenging projects and ensure high-quality outcomes for our clients.

Lastly, what advice would you give to someone considering a career in post-frame construction?

I would encourage anyone to explore a career in post-frame construction. It's a dynamic and rewarding field with plenty of opportunities for growth and innovation. Whether you're interested in design, project management, or hands-on building, there's a place for you. The key is to be open to learning and embrace the challenges and possibilities of post-frame construction.

Thank you for your time, Eric, and for continuing to partner with McElroy Metal. 

We wish Blunier Builders continued success, and we appreciate their loyal business!