Finds 2005
Blox of Color
Crossville has introduced Color Blox Porcelain Stone tile, a new flooring option in 20 different colors. The tile is designed to be more durable than natural stone, according to the manufacturer, and hues range from neutrals and darks to bright colors, such as Yellow Brick Road and Limeade. The product is also slip-resistant, environmentally responsible, and will not require sealing or waxing. To maximize versatility, an unpolished surface texture is used in the tile, and its overall appearance is further softened by shade variations from tile to tile. The product is made to coordinate easily with multiple carpet products and furnishings. For more information, visit www.crossvilleinc.com.
Accuracy on the Clock
Exaktime offers the Jobclock System, designed to eliminate employees’ inaccurate, handwritten timecards. The system is battery-powered, locks down anywhere at the job site, and resists dust, grime, vibration, and spray, according to the manufacturer. Employees are able to clock in and out with “keytabs” they carry on their keyrings. Once information is transferred to PC software, the system supplies detailed reports summarized by employee, jobsite, and activity. New software features allow overtime calculation, automatic accounting for lunch breaks, and rounding of employee clock-in and clock-out times. An optional software package, AccountLinx, allows time and attendance information to be transferred to a variety of accounting packages.
Wood-clad Astragal
Endura Products has added the new wood-clad Ultimate Astragal to its line of French door components. The new astragal offers many of the same features as the original, including a patented three-point seal between the inactive door, active door, and sill, as well as strike and deadbolt adjustability. When the inactive door is unlocked, the seal is lifted off the threshold cap, eliminating drag-induced damage to the seal and reducing opening and closing force, which deters air and water infiltration. Each astragal is molded from clear-grade lumber and is ready for finishing. For more information,visit www.enduraproducts.com.
Lasting Impression
Jeld-Wen Windows & Doors has developed the AuraLast wood treatment process, which differs from the standard “dip” method and forces active pest-resisting ingredients into the core of the wood. The vacuum/pressure process works to repel termites and is designed to resist decay and water absorption. Jeld-Wen also says the wood’s integrity won’t be compromised by screw and nail holes. The company also provides a 20-year warranty on the product. Recently, the company has made AuraLast a standard feature in its pine windows and patio doors. For more information, visit www.jeld-wen.com.
Solar Generation
Kyocera Solar has introduced MyGen Meridian, a photovoltaic module and mounting system designed to blend in with tile roofing. In addition to serving as part of the roof, the product pairs Kyocera’s d.Blue solar cells with black frames, making the product both powerful and inconspicuous, according to the manufacturer. When combined with standard concrete roofing tiles, MyGen Meridian visually blends with a home’s architecture. The product is designed to lower utility bills and reduce the probability of blackouts or brownouts. MyGen Meridian also incorporates two additional design features: a free-airflow framing system for increased thermal efficiency and a “cassette”-type module installation. According to the manufacturer, the design allows for simpler installation and replacement of damaged modules without disturbing the roofing material. For more information, visit www.kyocerasolar.com.
Hot Water...Fast
Laing Thermotech offers Autocirc, an instant hot-water pump that saves time, energy, and money, according to the manufacturer. The pump is installed under the faucet farthest from the water heater, where hot water usually takes the most time to arrive. A built-in temperature sensor automatically turns the pump on when the water cools down to 85 degrees, and the cool water is then pumped into the cold water line and back into the water heater. Laing says the system ensures the instant availability of warm water with maximum-temperature hot water only seconds behind. Hot water will also be instantly available at all other faucets in the supply line between the water heater and the faucet where the pump is installed. For more information, visit www.autocirc.com.
Molding Lightens Up
Orac Decor has created a new series: cornice moldings for indirect lighting. The polyurethane moldings accept a variety of cove molding light fixtures and won’t cause scalloped or uneven light dispersion, according to the manufacturer. The molding comes ready for painting, glazing, or faux finishing, and can be installed with the same tools used for installing wood products. Orac says the product requires a minimum of installation labor, little to no repair work, and is lightweight and strong. For more information, visit www.oracdecor.com.
Cleaner Heat
Dimplex has introduced Purifire, an air-treatment system found in selected Dimplex electric fireplaces. The system uses an electrostatically charged filter medium that attracts and traps harmful airborne particles such as dust, spores, pollen, and mold. Fireplaces equipped with Purifire do not require permits, piping, or venting, and are designed to be installed anywhere. The system also uses no combustion and adds no moisture to rooms, which preserves the building envelope. Purifire’s air filter operates with the heater or the air-circulating fan to provide continuous, quiet cleaning, according to the manufacturer. On average, the system circulates and cleans the air of a room four times per hour. An automatic sensor indicates when the filter needs to be replaced.
Air Grilles Blend Into Decor
Worth Home Products manufacturers a wooden return-air grille that replaces conventional white metal grilles. Installed in walls or ceilings, the product is designed to blend in with home decor, and can be painted to match particular color schemes. According to the manufacturer, the grilles combine safety features, air-flow performance, and versatility. Made from paint-grade poplar and Baltic birch wood, the grille consists of the wooden grille and a metal sleeve that installs with no wall modification. This product is available in 36 sizes that accommodate all standard return-air openings and filters. For more information, visit www.worthhomeproducts.com.
Knock on Wood
Trus Joist offers a prefabricated wood shear panel specifically designed for high-aspect-ratio shear wall applications. The panel resists bowing, twisting, and shrinking and is compatible with traditional wood-frame construction. Pre-drilled access holes allow for placement of utilities without field modification, and the panel’s new anchor installation system acts as a template for properly placing the hold-down anchors. Trus Joist says the new system also works as supplemental reinforcement to transfer the shear forces to the foundation, without the need for site-fabricated alternatives, and that installations is simple. For more information, visit www.trusjoist.com .
Deckorative Balusters
Deckorators has introduced a new line of glass balusters designed to add visual interest to decks and rails. The beveled glass balusters are made of 5/16-inch tempered glass, are 4 inches wide, and are designed with a universal stair angle. According to the manufacturer, the balusters are built for safety, have a simple installation, and are corrosive resistant. The product is appropriate for residential and commercial applications, particularly for restaurants and other public spaces where decks or patios are part of providing access to views and outdoor environments. The balusters are available in Clear View, Dusk View, and Autumn View tints. For more information, visit www.deckorators.com .
Rx Storage
Jensen Industries has introduced its new 1068/1035 series medicine cabinets to provide extra bathroom storage. The rectangular, exterior mirror is available with a beveled or polished edge, and its full-length continuous hinge ensures consistent, smooth door operation, according to the manufacturer. The rubber magnet/bumper provides a buffered close, and the adjustable shelf options include painted steel, glass, and plastic. This series of cabinets are constructed from rust-resistant painted steel and fit between standard wall studs. According to the company, this product is priced for affordability. Various sizes are available. For more information, visit www.jensen-ind.com.
March/April 2005
The Look of Wood
A new option in decorative beams is available to homebuilders interested in the rustic look. Polyurethane, prefinished beams from Architectural Products by Outwater are designed to be interchangeable in appearance with wood beams. According to the manufacturer, these high-density products are impervious to moisture and insects, which are often a threat to traditional wood beams. Suitable indoors or out, the country-style beams are available in an assortment of lengths and widths to accommodate buyers’ needs and are installable on most surfaces. There are also a number of accessories available to enhance the product’s look of authenticity, such as corbels, brackets, and strapping. For more information, visit www.outwater.com.
Fresh Air … and Light
Broan has gone a step further in the traditional bathroom fan/light combination, introducing decorative-glass globe lighting paired with built-in ventilation. Designed for energy efficiency and quiet, the fan/lights come in a variety of models and styles, all made with corrosive-resistant finish. Some models are designed for frequent use in high-traffic bathrooms, while other options feature lower wattage for guest bathrooms or those not used daily. A third model also includes the PowerHeat feature, with 1,500 watts of heating strength. Lights are also equipped with a nightlight mode for softer illumination. For more information, visit www.broan.com.
Stealthy Storage
In Wall Cabinets manufactures a line of cabinetry specially designed for game-, living-, and family-room storage. Specifically for use in areas where increased walking and playing space is desired, each cabinet is mounted so that stored items are virtually flush with the wall. The cabinets, intended for both display and function, shelve items ranging from pool cue sticks to wine bottles and decorative pieces. These hardwood pieces come color-coordinated in a variety of finishes, ranging from the lightest (natural) to the darkest (mahogany). Orders come with step-by-step directions for installation. It is recommended that cabinets be installed within interior walls only; for installation in exterior walls, customer service may be contacted for assistance. For more information, visit www.inwallcabinets.com.
Safety Sealant
ColorGrout with Sanitized helps build cleaner, fresher bathrooms and kitchens, according to its manufacturing company. Davco’s product includes a built-in microbial protection element, which helps counteract odor by keeping tile free of mold and bacteria. Once installed, ColorGrout provides permanent defense against bacteria without additional cost. The product is specifically mixed for full, level coverage. Available in customized colors, such as Snow White, Caribbean Sea, and Ancient Jade, the grout is appropriate for a wide range of coordinated tiling needs. For more information, visit www.davcousa.com.
Simplifying Software
Through an automated software system, Pharaoh’s Design Studio Series streamlines the homebuilding process, making it simpler for buyers and builders to communicate, purchase, and design, according to the company. The program tracks progress at each stage of the buying and building process, allowing contractors, subcontractors, and buyers access to contracts and purchasing options. The software also features design options such as Floorplan Magic, which allows users to graph floor plans and coordinate flooring selections. Additionally, homebuyers can use the software to express to builders their satisfaction levels. Pharaoh staff provides database setup and conversion, software installation, and training. For more information, visit www.ThePharaoh.com.
Wall of Strength
Offering an improved version of its previous Strong-Wall, Simpson Strong-Tie now manufactures a steel and pressure-treated wood combination wall that promises a load capacity two to three times higher than the original. The product is engineered to resist center distortion and sustain vertical load capacity. In addition to its upgraded structural performance, this product also requires less installation time because of a reduced number of top-of-wall screws, two accessible anchor bolts, and a higher number of predrilled holes. The Strong-Wall also features prefastened wood studs to attach interior and exterior finishes. For more information, visit www.strongtie.com.
January/February 2005
Mail Security
California-based Energy Technology Laboratories has developed the Secure Mail Vault, a high-security curbside mailbox designed from the ground up to protect against mail theft. Certified by the U.S. Postal Service, the Secure Mail Vault is a pole-mounted unit made of thick, 14-gauge steel. A curved mail slot on top allows mail to enter but not exit, except through the vault. Owners open a magnetically sealed outer door to reveal a heavy-duty inner door secured with two dead bolts. The vault opens when a user-chosen secret code is typed into an electronic keypad. For more information, visit www.securemailvault.com.
Arch Support
Unique Smart Arches make it easier and more affordable to add custom arches to a home, according to the product manufacturer, IC Urethane Products. The arch set is made of a high-density polyurethane foam core consisting of two halves, combined to produce a complete arch. The arch attaches into studding with coarse-thread screws. The surface is coated with drywall paper so that ordinary drywall mud will adhere, making it easier to achieve precise installation. For more information, visit www.icurethane.com.
Mobile Storage
RKI has added a top-opening truck storage box to its construction contractor product line. UST-Series truck boxes are available in heavy-duty steel or aluminum tread plate and come in black or white powder coat, direct from the factory. Features include machine-chain door supports and eight adjustable dividers UST-Series boxes are ideal for welding trucks, flatbeds, and equipment trailers, according to the manufacturer. The new truck boxes carry a lifetime warranty. For more information, visit www.rki-us.com.
Drivable Grass
Soil Retention Products’ Drivable Grass is a permeable, flexible, and plantable concrete pavement system manufactured from polymerically reinforced concrete. Drivable Grass is designed for use in areas where a permeable vegetated temporary vehicle access or parking surface is required. The product is designed to flex and conform to irregular ground surface contours along predefined linear grooves without falling apart. The holes pre-manufactured into Drivable Grass and linear predefined crack paths allow for root penetration to extend into the subgrade soils, anchoring it firmly into place. The product’s porous nature enables rain to infiltrate the underlying soils, thus increasing on-site stormwater storage and minimizing off-site flows. For more information, visit www.soilretention.com.
Map Making
Rand McNally has introduced a new self-service mapping tool that allows building and real estate professionals to quickly create large, high-quality, affordable wall maps customized to suit their distinct business needs. The company says its patent-pending Rand McNally Custom View Wall Maps system provides an easy-to-use mapping tool that guides users with simple step-by-step instructions and enables the customized mapping of a specific area, such as a residential neighborhood or a commercial development zone. These custom wall maps can be printed to order in just two business days. For more information, visit customview.randmcnally.com.
Designer Fire
Heat-N-Glo has introduced the Cyclone vertical fire system. Creating a whirling flame inside a concentric glass design, Cyclone offers a 360-degree view of the fire. The decorative flame gives architects and builders an opportunity to customize or enhance the ambience of any foyer, stairway, lobby, or other area. Cyclone is available as a stand-alone glass cylinder or as a wall-mounted unit.