This year, five members of the Ingenuity Builders team had the incredible opportunity to attend the International Builders' Show (IBS 2026) — one of the largest and most influential building industry events in the world.

Hosted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), IBS brings together builders, remodelers, designers, suppliers, and innovators from across the country to explore the newest products, building techniques, and trends shaping the future of construction.

For us, it wasn’t just a trip — it was an investment in our clients and our craft.


At Ingenuity Builders, we believe great craftsmanship starts with staying informed. Attending IBS allows us to:

Discover cutting-edge building materials and technology

Explore new tools that improve efficiency and precision

Learn updated building codes and best practices

Connect directly with manufacturers and product experts

Stay ahead of trends in kitchens, bathrooms, decking, exteriors, and more

Every seminar we attend and every product demo we watch is with one thing in mind: How can we bring this value back home to Minnesota?

What Excited Us Most -> From innovative exterior materials designed to withstand harsh northern climates to smart-home integrations that make everyday living easier, IBS 2026 showcased where the industry is headed.

We spent time exploring:

Advanced weather-resistant building systems

Energy-efficient windows and insulation options

Modern finishes and hardware trends

Durable decking materials perfect for Midwest seasons

New design software that enhances project visualization

Our goal is always to blend timeless craftsmanship with forward-thinking innovation — and IBS fuels that mission.

Investing in Growth -> As we attended IBS together, it gave us time to collaborate, reflect, and talk through how we can refine our processes even further. Growth isn’t just about getting bigger — it’s about getting better.

When you choose Ingenuity Builders, you’re choosing a team that:

✔ Continually educates themselves
✔ Prioritizes quality materials
✔ Builds with longevity in mind
✔ Stays proactive, not reactive


We’re proud of the crew that made the trip and grateful for the opportunity to represent Ingenuity Builders at such a high level within the industry.

Bringing It Home to Minnesota -> IBS 2026 reinforced something we already believe deeply: the best projects happen when experience meets innovation. We’re excited to implement what we’ve learned into upcoming builds and remodels across our communities.

If you’re planning a project this year, know that the ideas, materials, and strategies shaping your build are backed by national-level insight and hands-on industry experience.

Here’s to building smarter, stronger, and better — together.

Many homes across Northern Minnesota were built decades ago — solid, well-loved, and full of history.
But over time, even well-built homes can start to feel worn out.
Lately, we’ve heard the same comment from homeowners across Hibbing, Duluth, and the Iron Range:

“Our house just feels tired.”
That feeling usually isn’t caused by one major failure. It’s the result of a lot of small things adding up over the years.

What Makes a Home Feel “Worn Out”?
In the homes we work on throughout Northern Minnesota, the most common culprits tend to be:
-Drafty windows and doors that never quite seal right
-Layouts that no longer fit how families live today
-Kitchens and bathrooms showing their age — or no longer feeling functional or safe
-Floors, trim, and stairs that have seen decades of daily use
-Energy bills creeping higher every winter
Individually, these issues can feel manageable. Together, they can leave homeowners wondering whether staying put is still worth it.

Renovate or Move?
A Question We Hear a Lot
Many homeowners eventually reach a crossroads:

Do we remodel — or do we sell and start over?
What often surprises people is how frequently strategic renovations cost less than moving, especially when you factor in:
-Realtor fees
-Higher interest rates
-Increased property taxes
-The unknown condition of a “new” house
Updating the right areas of your current home can completely change how it feels — without giving up the neighborhood you know and love.

High-Impact Updates That Make Homes Feel New Again
Some of the most transformative projects we see include:
-Window replacements that eliminate drafts and help reduce heating costs
-Kitchen and bathroom remodels that improve comfort, safety, and resale value
-Main level updates that make everyday living easier
-Custom carpentry details that restore character while modernizing function
The kitchen shown here is a great example — same home, same footprint, but with thoughtful updates that completely changed how the space feels and functions day to day.

Your Home Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect — Just Better for You
A home doesn’t need to be brand new to feel good again. With the right plan, even older Northern Minnesota homes can feel comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable for years to come.
At Ingenuity Builders, we help homeowners decide what’s worth fixing, what’s worth upgrading, and what can wait — no pressure, just honest guidance. If you’re wondering whether small updates or a larger remodel makes the most sense for your home, we’re always happy to talk it through.

Many homeowners think their basement windows are “just for light” — but when it comes to safety and comfort, your egress windows play a critical role. Whether you’re finishing a basement, adding a bedroom, or just checking on your home’s safety, knowing the signs of a failing egress window can save you headaches — and even lives.

1. Difficulty Opening in an Emergency
A window that sticks, jams, or is hard to open can be dangerous in a fire or other emergency. Make sure everyone in your home can easily operate it.

2. Water Damage or Leaks
If you notice water stains, mold, or rotting wood around your window, it’s a sign your egress window isn’t keeping moisture out. Left unchecked, this can lead to bigger structural issues.

3. Drafty or Poorly Insulated
Cold air sneaking in around your window isn’t just uncomfortable — it’s also a signal the seal or frame may be failing. A proper repair improves energy efficiency and keeps your basement cozy year-round.

4. Windows That Don’t Meet Code
Older windows may not meet today’s safety requirements. Code changes over the years, and what was safe decades ago might not be safe now — especially if you’ve converted your basement into a bedroom.

At Ingenuity Builders, we help homeowners in Northern Minnesota ensure their egress windows are safe, functional, and up to code. Don’t wait until a problem becomes an emergency — contact us today to schedule a window check or repair.