Finds 2006
Manufacturers provided California Builder with their selections of concrete products that are making the grade. Some of these finds are newcomers, while others are tried-and-true favorites.
Countertops To Go
Buddy Rhodes Concrete Counter mix not only provides the countertop fabricator a consistent, workable, versatile, and high-end refined mix ready to go out of the bag; it also offers a whole system of colors, sealers, molds, wax, diamond pads, and hand-held mixers. According to the manufacturer, the mix contains the highest quality ingredients, including white cement and silica sand, marble aggregate, and additional components that make a world of difference in consistent moldability and a refined finish. Suitable for vertical applications and veined finishes, as well as toweled and ground finishes, it tests at 6,000 pounds-per-square-inch cured strength. For information, visit www.buddyrhodes.com.
Fire-Safe Roof Tiles
Eagle Roofing has created affordable and fire-safe concrete roof tiles that satisfy contemporary urban planning and complement virtually every architectural style. Available in flat, low-profile “S,” and high-barrel styles, the tiles come in a wide range of colors, from soft tonal hues to bold Southwestern tones. Both the standard weight tiles and Eaglelite tiles have passed Class A fire tests and other building criteria. Even better, Eagle’s transferable consumer-limited product warranty offers complete protection against structural deterioration of the tile. For more information, visit www.eagleroofing.com.
Sink of Stone
Sonoma Cast Stone introduces NuCrete, a stain-free, pre-cast concrete surface that looks like new for years to come. According to the manufacturer, NuCrete has been chemically fortified and mechanically honed to a matte finish to retain the very popular look and feel of concrete and natural stone. NuCrete can be used for precast concrete sinks, countertops, tiles, fireplace surrounds, and other interior features. For more information, visit www.sonomastone.com.
Wall of Strength
Anchor Wall Systems introduces the Diamond Pro Stone Cut wall which shoulders the load for tall walls, transportation projects, commercial developments, water applications, and other critical wall needs. The wall features a patented, easy-to-use rear lip for fast and structurally sound installations, and offers the same dependability and versatility as its older sibling, Diamond Pro. It also offers an added feature – a great new look. With its rough-hewn texture and earthen colors, Diamond Pro Stone Cut mirrors the beauty of natural stone. For more information, visit www.anchorwall.com.
Fancy Fireplaces
Sierra Concrete Design features innovative pre-cast fireplace surrounds and exterior detail designs, both in traditional and contemporary styles, and in a wide variety of colors and textures with the exclusive Sierra Stone finish. According to Sierra, the company uses only fine-quality products known for compression strength, high density, and durability. Sierra has an extensive product line; however, the company specializes in pre-cast fireplace surrounds that are tastefully-designed, competitively priced, and consistently well-made. For more information, visit www.sierraconcrete.com.
Siding to Stay
Interested in long-lasting siding? Hardishingle fiber-cement siding has the same authentic look as cedar shingles, yet it doesn’t rot, crack, or split. The shingle siding panels come in a variety of decorative edges, and expedite installation in larger areas. For applications that call for vertical siding, Hardipanel vertical siding is equal to lap siding in value and long-lasting performance. Precut soffit panels eliminate the need for separate box or strip vents and minimize the need for cutting. For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.