www.randrmagonline.com/blogs/14-r-r-blog/post/85241-builders-show-spotlights-innovative-products
The International Builders Show (IBS) always delivers
panache. Building product manufacturers use the industry’s biggest stage to
unveil their latest and greatest designs, often with the excessive exuberance
needed to stand out among the sea of products on display.
This year’s show was tamer than most. Singers, dancers,
magicians, and spokes-models were a bit scarce. But that did not stop a number
of manufacturers from spotlighting some exciting new products.
Following are a handful of products that caught my eye.
Owens Corning featured its new
EcoTouch Fiberglass™ Insulation. If you grew up like me afraid of the itchy
pink stuff, you are in for a pleasant surprise. EcoTouch has conquered the
itch-factor by using natural materials and a new binding agent. It is
formaldehyde-free and uses 50% recycled content, 30% of which is post-consumer
waste, largely recycled plastic containers. I came, I saw, I touched. No
itching. OC also promoted new shingles,
roof underlayment, and a nifty interior/exterior tongue-in-grove faux stone product.
Arrow Fastener showcased its
RED line of fastening products. The eye-catching booth attracted visitors with
the large RED acronym, which stands for Reliable, Ergonomic and Durable, and a
snazzy red sports car. But it was the redesigned fastening tools that kept
construction pros hanging around. The new line was anchored largely by staple
guns, brad nailers and hammer tackers. Features included lighter weights,
better grips, and enhanced versatility.
I compared a couple of the older Arrow products with their new RED
brethren. From the perspective of a laptop-toting office jockey, the RED
products fit my hand much better.
Dow Chemical had a lot happening in its booth.
Its above- and below-grade Styrofoam™ Structural Insulated Sheathing generated
a lot of interest. And for anyone who has ever used Great Stuff™ foam sealant,
you’ll be happy to learn Dow has introduced Great Stuff™ Work Wipes to quickly
remove excess products from your fingers. I was especially drawn to the
Powerhouse™ Solar Shingle prominently displayed at the roofline of the Dow
booth. The photovoltaic panels, which use a thin-film flexible substrate, are
designed to be installed in place of shingles. Dow is targeting a mid-summer
roll-out.
Maxxon Corp. featured its Acousti-Mat products for
floor underlayment and sound control. The company is promoting is mats as “all
green, all the time” and is positioning its products for specification in
LEED-certified projects. Maxxon cites its use of 40% post-consumer waste in Acousti-Mat
products as a key reason for selection.
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