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March, 2009 Editors' Choice: Hot Products 2009 International Builders' ShowEach year, manufacturers pull out the stops as they unveil innovative products and services at the International Builders Show. This year’s event, held Jan. 19-23 in Las Vegas was no exception. By Staff Report Despite a decrease in floor traffic—attendance was down significantly from prior years—there was plenty to see and learn. As we do every year, our team scoured the aisles, in search of the hottest new products. This year, several common themes emerged. First, a big focus on green (energyefficient, recycled and recycleable, sustainable) and second, an emphasis on value (lower cost, higher performance). Space prevents us from printing an exhaustive list; instead, consider this a snapshot of products that may help you generate sales and grab market share. —The Editors
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LiteSteel beam from LiteSteel Technologies Aiming to remove the phrase “steel beam by others” from lumber dealers’ lexicon, the new LiteSteel beam (LSB) from LiteSteel Technologies will be distributed through full line lumberyards—not steel distributors. LSB averages 40% lighter than hot-rolled steel beams or engineered wood, but with the same load-bearing capacity. Plus, there are no special tool requirements to cut, drill or fasten LSB, which is ideal for basement beams, garage beams, structural beams, long span headers and more. 
Latitudes Capricorn Tropical Composite Decking from UFP Featuring two unique tropical colors, adobe and koa, Latitudes Capricorn boards resemble the exotic hardwoods mahogany and ipe. With a natural-looking woodgrain pattern on both sides, Capricorn was designed to bridge versatility and aesthetics in one unique style. Capricorn tropical decking is fortified with the same Strandex technology used in all Latitudes composite products, and it is co-extruded for ultralow maintenance. Resistant to fading and moisture, and virtually impervious to stains, Latitudes Capricorn is available in 12- 16- and 20-foot lengths, in slotted and standard planks. 
CMI's 8-Foot Cashal Door The new CraftMaster Cashal door boasts a graceful top curve, distinctive grooves and an elegant smooth finish that combine elements of historical door design with modern functionality. It is available in passage widths from 1'6" to 3'0" in either hollow core or solid core construction, and with fingerjoint or MDF stiles and rails.
Artisan Series from AMSCO Featuring a unique beveled-in profile, innovative hidden accessory grooves, breakthrough color technology and an inventive magnetic action lock, AMSCO’s Artisan Series combines unique design with energy-efficiency. Through a proprietary process, AMSCO’s SuperCapSR technology creates a molecularly-fused color layer that becomes integral to the vinyl profile. The integral color layer is highly scratchresistant resulting in fewer callbacks. The color cap is highly durable, fade resistant and won’t crack, chip, flake or chalk like paint. Available in white, almond and taupe plus the new exterior colors autumn red, evergreen and bronze with a white interior. 
New 6/4 PVC Panels from Versatex A new super-thick, low-maintenance PVC 6/4 panel from Versatex features fine cellstructure consistency from front to back, eliminating the need to laminate multiple sheets to achieve thicker stock. The panel measures 1-1/4" thick, and comes in 4'x8' and 4'x10' sheets. The company describes its cutting and routing performance as comparable to fine lumber. 
ProPak PVC Trim by Fypon Fypon’s new ProPak PVC Trim is comprised of select millwork-grade PVC board products, including bead board and corner boards, in convenient carton packaging. Each piece is individually shrinkwrapped to protect it from dirt and blemishes once the carton is opened. PVC products from Fypon are impact- and moisture-resistant and cannot absorb water, making them ideal for interior or exterior use. The density and cell structure of the PVC allows it to cut smoothly without chipping, making it ideal for routing and milling. All Fypon PVC products are covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. 
Universal Stair Bracket System from GoPro The conventional way to build a set of stairs is to start with two 2x12s, then hope you don’t make a mistake cutting the notches. With the new Universal Stair System from GoPro, builders start with 2x6s, and screw in the brackets using the imprinted scale markings as a guide. If the installer makes a mistake, he simply unscrews and repositions the bracket. No waste and according to GoPro, it’s stronger. Each bracket has imprinted scale markings indicating the staircase rise and run. Installers simply match the meeting of the brackets at the indicated markings, which GoPro says can accommodate all pitches, rises and runs. 
CertainTeed CertaSpray Offered in both open- and closed-cell formulas, CertaSpray Foam Insulation from CertainTeed creates an air seal and can be used in whole-house and building applications, or in combination with fiberglass insulation—particularly in hard-to-reach areas like cathedral ceilings, knee walls and roof decks. By reducing air leakage, CertaSpray is engineered to minimize hot and cold spots and provides outstanding comfort and indoor air quality by impeding the penetration of moisture and outdoor allergens. 
BiltBest: Custom-Made, Value-Priced Windows Most window/door manufacturers are either value-priced and mass-produced or custommade and priced accordingly. BiltBest aims to deliver custom products at value pricing—a concept that’s sure to connect with builders, remodelers and homeowners. BiltBest offers six main product lines—ranging from its Replacement Series to its eClad Architectural Series. Customers can choose from more than 200 colors, and a vast array of finishing options. 
Styrofoam SIS from Dow Previewed at the 2008 International Builders Show and now available nationwide, Styrofoam SIS from Dow has won praise from builders who typically use wood sheathing and housewrap, because it provides structure, water-resistance and insulation in a single product. Styrofoam SIS can be fastened with nails or staples, giving the builder the option to choose, depending on their preference. Plus, a new facer features easy-to-understand pictorials that demonstrate the four steps to installation, with captions in English, Spanish and French. 
Same-Day Stain Kit from ThermaTru Doors Since it dries in just one day, compared to the 48-hour dry time recommended for traditional stains, the new Same-Day Stain Kit from Therma-Tru Doors saves big time on the jobsite. This revolutionary stain can be applied in the morning and will be ready for topcoat application by afternoon. The easy-toapply stain can be rubbed on and blended with a cloth to\ bring out the door’s rich grain and texture. The Same-Day Stain Kit comes complete with all of the supplies needed, and the stain is available in seven popular colors. 
BellaStone Architectural Columns from Exterior Portfolio by Crane Following up on the popularity of its lightweight BellaStone Architectural Columns, launched last year, Exterior Portfolio by Crane followed up this year by announcing new colors and sizes. Unlike decorative columns made of wood or fiberglass, which may require painting or ongoing attention, BellaStone Architectural Columns offer true maintenance freedom. The long-lasting surface will not weather regardless of environmental conditions and ultra-violet rays. Currently offered in two sizes—20"x20"x16" and 20"x20"x38"; two additional sizes, 14"x14"x16" and 14"x14"x38" will be available later this year.
XJ 85 Joist from Georgia Pacific The XJ 85 joist from Georgia-Pacific is an innovative engineering achievement, combining radical hole shaping and placement with a Georgia-Pacific Wood I Beam joist. The strategically located pre-cut openings and lightweight construction of the XJ 85 joist helps contribute to lower installed cost by accommodating plumbing, wiring and duct work. The joist comes in pre-fabricated lengths, and is trimmable on-site to help reduce wasted materials and time. Also, when the XJ 85 joist is used in conditioned spaces, ductwork can be run through the pre-cut openings instead of unconditioned space, helping increase energy efficiency in the home. 
LifeCycle EcoShield Deck Tiles from A.E.R.T. Advanced Environmental Recycling Technologies’ (A.E.R.T.) latest innovation in its line of earth-friendly products, LifeCycle EcoShield Deck Tiles are ideal for surface applications on patios, verandas, rooftops and virtually any level concrete or gravel surface. Manufactured using A.E.R.T.’s patented process that encapsulates recycled wood fibers in recycled polyethylene plastic, the 12"x12" deck tiles come with a grid pattern for easy layout and versatility. The tiles snap together for simple and secure installation. The unique make-up of the composite material resists rot, decay, moisture and insects. 
EcoStar Majestic Slate Roofing While Majestic Slate Traditional roofing tiles have been around for a decade, interest in green building has given the product’s message a fresh impact. Majestic Slate Traditional is a 50-year rubber slate tile, injection- molded from post industrial recycled rubber and plastics to offer an environmentally friendly, lightweight alternative to traditional slate roofing tiles. Boasting a 100-mph wind warranty, they’re also Class A firerated and feature Class 4 hail resistance. 
Distinction Slate from Trimline Building Products Distinction Slate gives the rich, natural appearance of real slate with deep chiseled edges, creating the most realistic composite stale available. Made from an advanced composite formulation, Distinction Slate is engineered to deliver unequalled value and long-term performance. The engineered lightweight design is said to make installation much less challenging and quicker than installing the heavy and delicate natural slate. 
PermaLath from BASF Developed for use in stucco applications (1/2" to 7/8") and as a plaster base for precast stone veneer, PermaLath 1000 from BASF cuts easily with a scissors or a utility knife, and leaves no jagged edges—unlike traditional metal lath. It will not rust or corrode, making it ideal for coastal applications. The light weight of PermaLath 1000 makes it less expensive to transport and easier to manage on the jobsite. Its pallet weight is less than 1/5 of 3.4 metal lath. 
MASA Mudsill Anchors from Simpson Strong-Tie Simpson Strong-Tie mudsill anchors have always saved contractors time (compared to anchor bolts), but now a new and improved design provides a one-to-one replacement of 1/2" and 5/8" anchor bolts. Plus, the load capacity of the new MASA mudsill anchor meets or exceeds that of other cast-in-place anchors. The improved performance of the MASA anchor is a direct result of its design. Key areas of the anchor have been reinforced and fasteners have been added. And, since the MASA can be installed as wide as 6' on center, the same load capacity can be achieved with fewer anchors. 
Dealer Tool Kit from Boise Instead of launching a new product in these tough economic times, Boise focused instead on helping dealers and builders grow their sales. For builders, Boise offers “21 Ways to Build Profitably and Green.” Knowing that nothing happens for dealers until their builder customers are profitable, the dealer piece is called, “Dealer Tool Kit for Builder Profitability.” The eight-page brochure is an ata- glance reference guide to help dealers learn how Boise can help make their builders more profitable, and can be downloaded at 
AZEK Edge Aiming to set a new industry standard, the AZEK Edge is made with proprietary technology that creates boards that are S4S or “Surfaced 4 Sides,” meaning all sides are uniformly finished. The smooth, sealed edges of each board ensure it will stay cleaner in the dealer yard, on the jobsite, and will be easier to clean if necessary. The AZEK Edge will apply to all AZEK Trim profiles and AZEK Cornerboards in both Traditional (smooth) and rustic Frontier texture. 
Power Preserved Glulam from Anthony Especially well-suited for above-ground projects like decks, patios and porches—along with raised floor construction, Power Preserved Glulam products from Anthony were created to tackle the shortage of high-quality, high-strength solid southern pine treated timber. Utilizing Cop-Guard treatment from Hoover Treated Wood Products, Power Preserved Glulam products are warranted to resist fungal decay and wood-destroying insect attacks for 25 years. 
Duration Premium Cool Roof Shingles from Owens Corning Owens-Corning’s new Duration Premium Shingles with SureNail Technology are rated by the Cool Roof Rating Council, they meet the California Title 24 Cool Roof and initial Energy Star reflective requirements. The shingles are said to help reduce roof temperatures by up to 10 degrees in warm weather, lower energy bills and reduce wear and tear on air conditioners. Duration Premium Cool Roof Shingles—available in Sage, Sunrise, Harbor Fog and Frosted Oak—prove that roofing needn’t be very light to be cool. 
DeckLites from TimberTech With post cap lights, baluster-mounted accent lights, post-mounted accent lights and stair riser lights, DeckLites from Timbertech is described as a completely customizable lighting solution for any type of application. The post cap lights and baluster-mounted accent lights are specifically designed to fit with TimberTech’s RadianceRail and Ornamental Rail systems. The system offers many advantages: electrical connections are easy and do not require permits for installation; all components are sold individually for maximum design customization; uses minimal electricity and provides a soft, ambient light that is as functional as it is stylish. 
Improved AdvanTech Flooring by Huber The new version of AdvanTech flooring displayed at IBS boasts new panel graphics designed with the following improvements: 1) new fastening guide for quicker installation; 2) bi-lingual instructions to ensure 1/8- inch spacing gap; 3) more open space to allow subcontractors to write on the panels to convey instructions for plumbing, electrical, HVAC and kitchen cabinet installation. Plus, the AdvanTech panels will have an improved tongue and groove design for a better fit along the edge, and the SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative) logo will appear on the surface to showcase the company’s environmental commitment. 
Gossen WeatherReady Passport Aiming to set a higher standard in cellular vinyl decking, WeatherReady Passport features an exotic wood look based on advanced Gossen technology. Along with ultra-low maintenance, lasting beauty and durability, the shopping list of benefits includes: lightweight, just 1.5 lbs per foot; factory grooved for a hidden fastener; scratch- and stain-resistant; fastens to the edge without splitting or cracking; Class A fire-rated; and won’t support mold growth. 
Enclave Fencing from Fiberon Fiberon Enclave composite fencing combines the popular attractiveness of Fiberon Tropics multi-chromatic technology with heavy embossing to create a frame for outdoor spaces with exceptional depth, texture, flexibility and long-lasting beauty. Fiberon Enclave features realistic wood beauty that lasts longer and is available in three natural-looking wood hues: Coastal Cedar, Pacific Redwood and Weathered Pine. Made with 75% recycled wood and HDPE plastic content for added durability, Enclave will never require chemical preservatives, stain or paint. Enclave is backed by a 20-year limited warranty. 
Engineered Stair System from Ainsworth Aiming to help save builders time and money while reducing jobsite waste, Ainsworth introduced a new application that combines two existing products—and eliminates the need for building “temporary stairs.” The time-saving application is based on building stair systems using pre-fabricated stair treads combined with Ainsworth proprietary 0.8E rated rim board as stair stringers. The proprietary rim board product can be combined with Ainsworth SteadiTred stair tread panels, offering higher strength, moisture resistance and less fall-down than particleboard or solid-sawn options. 
TAMKO Lamarite Slate in Cool Colors In response to demand for more energy efficient products, TAMKO has developed cool colors for its Lamarite Slate Composite Shingles. Lamarite Slate Cool Color Composite Shingles are rated by the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC)–a testament to the energy savings that can be achieved. The new Lamarite Slate Composite Shingle Cool Colors are Terra Cotta, Pale Olive, Cool Grey, Natural Sand and Almond Shell. Each Lamarite Slate Cool Color meets or exceeds Energy Star Program Requirements for 25% solar reflectivity, similar to TAMKO’s MetalWorks Cool Color Steel Shingles. 
Bellaforte Roofing Tiles from DaVinci Roofscapes The new Bellaforte line from DaVinci Roofscapes feature a number of patented innovations—including an integrated rain gutter and leading edge tab and rain dam—all in an authentic 12-inch profile. Available in slate black and gray, each Bellaforte tile has been designed to meet the highest standards for wind, fire and impact. The tiles are 100% recyclable and come with a 50-year limited warranty. For ease of installation, the tiles are described as self-aligning, both vertically and horizontally. Coming soon: DaVinci’s EcoBlend colors, which have been rated by the CRRC as a “cool roof.” 
In-Swing Fiberglass Patio Door from Milgard Equally suitable for new and replacement construction projects, Milgard’s new fiberglass inswing patio door features PureView sliding screens and single motion multi-point locking hardware. Designed to withstand wind, snow and rain without peeling, swelling, expanding, contracting, cracking or warping, the doors are also impervious to cold, heat, insects, salt and corrosion. PureView sliding screens, made of a durable flame-retardant fiberglass mesh screen, are suitable for both window and door application. Included is Milgard’s Full Lifetime Warranty, which even covers glass breakage. 
Genovations Solid PVC Deck Boards Described as “Stronger than wood, stronger than composite, engineered for life,” Genovations solid PVC Deck Boards from Genova Products are available in two profiles—2"x6" and the new 5/4"x6" (for new or existing construction). Produced in the U.S., the maintenance-free boards are designed for quick and easy installation with no special fasteners and no expensive spacers—only common deck screws are needed. Available in four fade-resistant/ stain-resistant earth tone shades (sandalwood, birchwood, cedar and driftwood). 
VOC-Compliant PL400 from Henkel Henkel’s popular PL400 Sub-Floor & Deck Adhesive VOC compliant formula already meets NAHB and LEED compliancy requirements, and even with stricter VOC regulations, can still be sold anywhere in the USA. As always, it provides a powerful, permanent bond and the No Call Back Guarantee. It is formulated for use on sub-flooring, exterior sheathing, siding, decks, metal and FRP panels. It remains virtually unaffected by weather extremes. 
iLevel adds Fastening Template to Edge Gold Floor Panels Delivering a practical improvement to an existing product, iLevel by Weyerhaeuser now stamps each of its iLevel Edge Gold panels with a precision fastening template. These pre-printed guidelines take the guesswork out of nailing and screw-ing, helping ensure correct placement of fasteners into joists. Plus iLevel now ships each bundle of panels face-up and ready to install. According to the company, these features combine to result in a better floor, faster cycle times, and a decreased risk of call-backs. 
