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October 18.2025
3 Minutes Read

Owens Corning’s New Foamular NGX Plant: A Sustainable Boost for Arkansas

Employees at Owens Corning Foamular NGX Plant in Arkansas celebrating in pink.

The Impact of Owens Corning's New Facility on Arkansas

Owens Corning, a leader in insulation and building materials, has officially opened a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for its Foamular NGX insulation product in Russellville, Arkansas. This new 150,000-square-foot plant represents a significant investment of $60 million and is expected to boost local employment and bolster the community's economic growth.

The new plant, inaugurated on October 14, 2025, is designed to cater to the growing demand for Foamular NGX insulation, which is utilized in both commercial and residential applications. As the construction sector increasingly shifts towards sustainable building materials, this facility epitomizes Owens Corning's commitment to providing innovative and eco-friendly solutions. By creating more than 50 jobs, it not only enhances the economic landscape of Russellville but also signifies Owens Corning's continued relationship with Arkansas, where the company has been operating for nearly 40 years.

Building for a Sustainable Future

Environmental responsibility is at the forefront of modern construction practices. The Foamular NGX tooling process is designed to optimize efficiency and reduce waste, aligning with industry trends towards sustainability. The facility utilizes advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure that the insulation products produced are not only high-performing but also manufactured with minimal environmental impact. This strategic initiative reflects Python's commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional manufacturing, underscoring the tangible benefits of sustainable technology.

Economic Development and Job Creation

State and local officials have hailed this initiative as a transformative development for Russellville. During the opening ceremony, local economic developer Dr. Megan Selman emphasized the importance of this factory in reinforcing the area's status as a hub for advanced manufacturing. “Owens Corning’s new facility exemplifies the dedication of businesses to contribute toward supporting the local economy and creating job opportunities,” she noted. The new jobs created are set to stimulate local spending, benefiting surrounding businesses and contributing to the area’s overall economic vitality.

Community Engagement and Philanthropy

Owens Corning's commitment to the community extends beyond manufacturing. The company’s foundation donated $50,000 to Russ Bus, a local nonprofit that assists the homeless population. This financial contribution not only aids the nonprofit in managing operational costs but also showcases Owens Corning’s dedication to fostering community well-being. This philanthropic approach reinforces the notion that businesses can play a crucial role in societal development by investing in social initiatives alongside ensuring economic performance.

The Path Forward: Industry Trends

The construction industry is evolving rapidly, with an increasing focus on sustainable solutions in building practices. Owens Corning's investment in the Foamular NGX plant positions it strategically to meet demand amid this expansion. As building codes and consumer expectations shift toward environmentally responsible products, the company is poised to lead the charge. This new facility not only underscores the potential for growth in the insulation sector but also encourages further innovation in sustainability as the industry adapts to these changing dynamics.

Overall, as Owens Corning paves the way for sustainable architecture and innovative construction materials, the opening of the Foamular NGX facility transcends mere economic statistics; it’s a beacon for future growth and a commitment to community and environmental stewardship.

If you’re a business owner or developer, understanding how innovative materials can drive sustainability in construction is essential. Leveraging opportunities, like those presented by Owens Corning's latest facility, can ensure your projects stay ahead of the curve. Keep abreast of the latest trends in sustainable construction, and consider how collaborations with forward-thinking companies can benefit your building endeavors.

Sustainable Building & Green Construction

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01.15.2026

Crisis in the Roofing Industry: Mental Health Must Be a Priority

Update The Urgent Need for Mental Health Awareness in Roofing In the demanding world of roofing, where work conditions are both physically and emotionally taxing, mental health issues are increasingly recognized as a silent crisis. The industry is notorious for its rugged culture—often lauded as "tough"—that paradoxically undercuts the well-being of its workers. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has launched initiatives like the 'Be Tough Enough' campaign to combat stigma and promote mental health as a genuine safety priority. Breaking the Silence: The 'Be Tough Enough' Movement The NRCA's 'Be Tough Enough' video, premiered at the recent Best of Success conference, sheds light on this pressing issue. It features real stories from roofers who have faced mental health struggles, making it clear that seeking help is a sign of strength. NRCA CEO McKay Daniels emphasized that recognizing when to lean on others can significantly affect someone's mental health and well-being. The campaign is not just a marketing tactic; it offers access to numerous free resources for contractors, employers, and employees alike, including toolbox talks and support information to help address these challenges effectively. Understanding the Risks: Statistics and Realities Statistics underscore the need for urgent intervention: according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), construction workers—including roofers—experience one of the highest suicide rates among occupational groups. Factors such as isolation from working at heights, the stressful nature of the job, and the stigma attached to mental health discussions contribute to this unsettling reality. With many roofers feeling they 'must tough it out,' these issues often remain unaddressed, leading to dire consequences. Creating Supportive Work Environments Employers play a crucial role in shifting the culture around mental health in roofing. By implementing wellness programs and encouraging open dialogues about mental health, employers can help dismantle the stigma. Providing access to counseling services and offering workshops on stress management can pave the way for healthier work environments. Moreover, promoting work-life balance is critical; when workers feel supported, they are far less likely to succumb to the pressures and strain that may lead to mental health crises. Peer Support: A Pillar of Resilience Peer support is pivotal in managing mental health challenges, particularly in such a close-knit industry. Encouraging roofers to share their stories and experiences can foster community, allowing individuals to realize they are not alone in their struggles. Organizations such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention provide invaluable resources that can guide those in need back to health. A Call to Action for the Roofing Community As we navigate the complexities of mental health in the roofing industry, the call to action is clear: stakeholders from across the spectrum must rally together to prioritize mental well-being. By changing the narrative around mental health, we can create an environment that values genuine toughness—the kind that embraces vulnerability and support. Every roofer deserves to feel safe in addressing their mental health challenges, and together we can forge a community that empowers workers to thrive. For business owners and stakeholders in the commercial construction sector, understanding and investing in mental health initiatives represent not only an ethical responsibility but also a pathway to enhancing workforce productivity and resilience. As an industry, let’s ensure that our workers know their mental health matters, and take decisive steps to create a supportive and sustainable roofing environment.

01.13.2026

How the Construction Job Surge Amid Labor Shortages Affects Business Growth

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01.11.2026

Exploring Roofing in 2026: SOPREMA's Vision for Sustainable Growth

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