Cilio

Q2 Earnings Insights: Lowe’s, Home Depot, and the Outlook for Contractors

When Lowe’s and Home Depot report earnings, contractors should pay attention. These two Big Box retailers set the tone for how the entire home improvement industry perceives supply, demand, and customer behavior.  Their Q2 2025 results came in stronger than expected, and while both companies tell a slightly different story, the signals for contractors and […]

Q2 Earnings Insights: Lowe’s, Home Depot, and the Outlook for Contractors Read More »

Why the Trades Are Thriving in the Age of AI

AI is everywhere: writing legal briefs, generating ad campaigns, even helping diagnose medical conditions. In boardrooms and breakrooms alike, conversations about artificial intelligence are reshaping how we think about the future of work.  But while AI dominates headlines about automation and disruption, a quieter story is unfolding. Skilled trades, especially in home improvement, aren’t just

Why the Trades Are Thriving in the Age of AI Read More »

Managing by the Numbers: The Smarter Way to Grow Your Home Installation Business

On July 9th, 2025, Cilio hosted a focused training session titled “Managing by the Numbers”, led by Gary Cohen of Certified Contractors Network (CCN). The session was designed specifically for home installation business owners looking to take control of their operations and drive real profit.  The training breaks down the key reasons why many home

Managing by the Numbers: The Smarter Way to Grow Your Home Installation Business Read More »

The Rise of Pro Services at Big Box Stores: How Installers Can Capitalize

Over the past few years, big box retailers like Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Costco have quietly restructured the way they serve homeowners. One of the biggest shifts? A growing emphasis on Pro services and in-home installation programs. The average customer isn’t just buying products anymore. They’re buying convenience. And that means the real growth engine

The Rise of Pro Services at Big Box Stores: How Installers Can Capitalize Read More »

How to Improve Your VOC Scores With Home Depot (And Why It Matters)

Big box installation programs demand more than just getting the job done. To stay in good standing with the retailer, you need to deliver a consistent, professional experience for every customer. For contractors working with Home Depot, that means paying close attention to your Voice of the Customer (VOC) scores. These scores are more than

How to Improve Your VOC Scores With Home Depot (And Why It Matters) Read More »

What Q1 Earnings Reveal About the Year Ahead for Contractors

The first quarter of 2025 has presented a complex landscape for the home improvement industry. Major retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Ace Hardware have reported mixed results, reflecting broader economic challenges such as tariff uncertainties, inflation, and shifting consumer behaviors.  For home installation contractors and remodeling professionals, understanding these trends is crucial for navigating

What Q1 Earnings Reveal About the Year Ahead for Contractors Read More »

Managing Performance and Compliance with Big Box Sales Channels

When you install products for big box retailers like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Costco, you open the door to steady work and strong growth potential. But that opportunity comes with real expectations. These retailers track performance and compliance closely. If you don’t meet their standards, you could lose work or even be removed from their

Managing Performance and Compliance with Big Box Sales Channels Read More »

The Major Challenges of Window Treatments and How Cilio Helps

Quality window treatments are a choice your clients make and not a must-have like a roof or water heater. This means much of their decision is based on the experience YOU provide.  Being professional, organized, and timely could mean the difference of sinking or swimming in this trade.   Managing leads, custom measurements, follow-ups, scheduling installations,

The Major Challenges of Window Treatments and How Cilio Helps Read More »