For the past 12 months, the readers of Walls & Ceilings have told us which products and literature were of interest to them by filling out the reader action cards. Tallied from hundreds of entries, the following have appeared in the Product Focus and Toolbox departments. In no particular order, here’s what you told us you found of interest.
Screws for Light Gauge Steel
Grabber Construction ProductsThe company’s Spectrum screw was specifically designed to produce exceptionally high pull-out values in light gauge steel without sacrificing fastener drilling speed in these new materials. Spectrum’s 7 gauge shank diameter, buttress threads and reduced drill point all combine to offer superior drilling performance. Additionally, the fastener is ideal for attaching high density sheathing products to the new materials being used in the market today. For all 16 through 20 gauge applications, the screw is specially designed to work with the next generation of steel framing.
Knockdown Texture Repair Tool
Template LLCThe Drywall Repair Tool is a flexible plastic template with a random knockdown pattern that enables the user to replicate the knockdown texture on the rest of the wall after a drywall repair has been made. The process is clean and fast because there is no overspray and no need to tape off the area to protect the surrounding surfaces. The benefit to drywall professionals is that they can make multiple repairs more quickly after contractors have completed their work. The tool can be re-used on multiple projects, making it extremely cost-effective for those who perform frequent drywall repairs.
Formaldehyde-free Formulated Insulation
Owens CorningEcoTouch Pink Fiberglas Insulation with PureFiber Technology is made with natural materials and a formaldehyde-free formulation. This product uses a minimum of 50 percent recycled content (30 percent post-consumer recycled content). It provides for energy-efficiency and comfort, and is designed with the environment in mind while delivering the same thermal performance. EcoTouch is fast and easy to install, helping reduce build-cycle time, enhance profitability and improve cash flow. EcoTouch is GreenGuard Indoor Air Quality Certified, as well as GreenGuard Children and Schools Certified, to meet certification standards.
Architectural Thin Block Veneer
Cebu StoneThe company manufactures a commercial thin cast block veneer. The product is affordable and highly unique made with the installer in mind. High production rates (400 square feet on average per day, per man), ease of application plus an architectural “splitface look” is a different line to any stucco company’s offerings. All blocks are lightweight by design, have a 1-inch base thickness and incorporate a cast-in place, patent pending AccuTab Set system for a precise installation.
Low Cost Ceiling Grid
ProSquareProSquare Ceilings offers a low cost grid alternative for acoustical ceiling contractors. Current product line includes a 15/16-inch grid system including 7/8-inch wall angle in standard white. The products feature a stab style end that is raised to allow for a smooth transition at connection points of main tees and cross tees. The company has more than 30 years of experience into the design of its grid. The focused product line and minimal overhead costs allow the company to offer this high-quality product at an affordable price.
Paper-faced Plastic Corner Bead
USG Corp.Sheetrock paper-faced plastic bead is made with a strong paper tape laminated to a durable composite plastic that creates crack- and chip-resistant corners. The product is rust-proof and is backed by a limited lifetime 30-year warranty. The highly engineered paper tape ensures excellent adhesion of joint compound, textures and paints for a strong, smooth finish for flawless corners. No screws, nails or other fasteners are required with the tape-on styles, making installation and precision corner alignment efficient while eliminating nail pops. The durable plastic also provides greater impact and abuse resistance, helping to reduce damage during transit and at the job site. The plastic bead is also 25 percent lighter than metal bead, making it easier to handle and more flexible to maneuver, especially in tight places like hallways and stairwells. Its light weight makes it easier to transport and helps save freight costs.
Curved Corners for Drywall
Fulcrum Composites Inc.Curve Corners bridge the gap between the very tight radii achievable with trim products and the minimum curvature that can be created by bending conventional drywall. Initial products include 90 degree curves for internal and external corners and 180 degree bullnose corners for finishing end walls or half walls. Installation uses the same techniques as conventional drywall including depth set screws and existing taping and mudding techniques. The products are extremely lightweight and durable. They are available in 8 and 10 foot lengths, 1/2 and 5/8 inch thickness and dimensions to match both 2x4 stud walls and steel framing. They can be specified with or without tapered edges. Additional shapes will be added as demand dictates.
Window and Door Foam Sealant
Powers FastenersTriggerFoam Pro Window and Door Foam is a professional grade, low-pressure, gun applied polyurethane foam sealant. This foam does not distort window and door frames when expanded. The product adheres to wood, metal, masonry and concrete. It seals gaps and joints, insulates, stops air infiltration and saves time and money and is ideal for use around pipes, wires and ductwork. The foam is dispensed though a standard foam gun that allows the user to control the flow rate and the diameter of the bead. The easily adjustable applicator can dispense foam beads as small as 1/8 inch, allowing for precise placement of the foam. The precision value helps prevent pressure loss and prolongs shelf life. Voids should be filled approximately 30 to 40 percent to allow for the final expansion of the foam. The product is safe to use, containing no CFCs no PCBs and no urea formaldehyde as they are being dispensed, and has a neutral odor. The stop-and-go application product remains liquid in the applicator until dispensed.
Deflection Clip
Flex-Ability ConceptsThe Three Legged Dog deflection clip by Flex-Ability Concepts eliminates fumbling or dropped clips. Slide the clip onto the top end of the stud. With the clip attached, raise the stud into the deep-leg track and snap into place. Then, secure the clip using conventional fasteners.
Record Organizer for Lead Pant
Lead RecordsThe EPA’s RRP Rule requires renovators who disturb lead-based paint to create and store records detailing their work practices on every job or face stiff penalties. Lead Records’ Organizer simplifies RRP recordkeeping. The product is a comprehensive guide to fulfilling the EPA’s recordkeeping requirements and includes:
Complete set of forms covering all contingencies
Easy-to-follow instructions to complete the recordkeeping requirements
Recommendations for additional documentation Renovators should compile
Guide to creating end-of-project reports for homeowners
Renovate Right brochure
Customizable three-ring binder
Durable EXTERIOR Trim Moldings
James HardieThe HardieTrim Crown Moulding is a highly durable and dimensionally stable trim accessory that can be used as window ornamentals and to enhance the design of the roof line. The moldings are available in two profile sizes: 3¼ and 5¼ inch. The products are manufactured as part of the HardieZone System that provides exterior products with specific performance attributes relative to the climate where the product is being used. The moldings perform well in all climates, which allow the product to maintain long-term aesthetics compared to wood. Also, unlike PVC trims, HardieTrim Crown Mouldings are dimensionally stable while PVC expands and contracts with change in temperatures. The products also come with a 15-year limited, transferable product warranty. These can be used in various applications such as, a decorative trim transition from frieze board to soffit, window headers and as a gable trim accent.
Maintenance-free Ceiling Panels
ACPThe company has introduced a new maintenance-free ceiling panel designed to solve the problems of staining, water damage and mold or mildew that are often experienced with fiber- or paper-based, lay-in panels. The new Genesis ceiling panels install in any standard ceiling grid system and are perfect for commercial kitchens, food processing plants, healthcare and education facilities, marine applications, high-humidity climates and clean rooms. The 100 percent waterproof panels are washable and can easily be cleaned by power-washing or soap and water. The PVC material assures mold, mildew and bacteria resistance. The non-shedding, white panels are available in either a smooth or textured finish. They will not water-spot, rot, swell or peel. Sag-resistant Genesis panels are Class A fire-rated for flame and smoke. Available in 2-feet-by-2-feet or 2-feet-by-4-feet dimensions, the panels are also impact and damage-resistant.
Mixer and Stirrer
Prazi USAThe StirWhip Mixer and Stirrer allows the user to quickly mix or stir liquids, paints, glues, epoxies, compounds, concrete smoothly and evenly. Durable and flexible it will even fit through a 5-gallon pouring spout. The design reduces strain on your drill motor. The product comes in two models the 8-inch 1 gallon model #PR-9808 and the PR-9818 18-inch, 5-gallon model.
Stainless Steel Lath and Accessories
AMICOFrom AMICO, Stainless Steel T304 Trims are now available in addition to T304 and T316 Stainless Steel Lath. The products provide excellent corrosive resistance for specialty lath applications. The cornerbead, casing bead and control joints meet ASTM Specifications C1063 and C841. The lath meets ASTM C847-95. AMICO is proud to be the first company to offer these outstanding products as standard items in our comprehensive line of lath products. For more information, visitwww.amico-lath.com. AMICO is a Gibraltar Industries Company.
Trowel Applied Wall Finish
Atova InternationalMarmorino Veneziano Carrara is a trowel applied wall finish based on slaked lime putty finely filtered and seasoned for at least six months. Its environmentally friendly formula is solvent free (no VOCs) and extremely low in chemical additives. Easy to apply, it has excellent filling power and resists aggression by molds and bacteria. The wall finish is suitable for decorative indoor wall surfaces. Carrara is used to create a true, marble-like finish smooth to the touch. From contemporary to Old World, Carrara Marmorino is an ideal product for projects.
Multi-purpose Mineral Wool Insulation
ThermafiberVersaBoard mineral wool insulation is a multi-purpose commercial product that has high-recycled content designed for commercial construction. The product is available in four densities (3.5 to 8.0 pcf). The product is engineered to provide thermal insulation, fire protection and strong sound and noise absorption. The company can apply a variety of facings to the product during manufacturing to meet the aesthetic and functional needs of a building. It also repels moisture and can be an exposed interior surface. The insulation has up to 90 percent recycled content. It contributes to 33 LEED credits across four categories. It helps buildings conserve energy, control noise, improve indoor air quality, improve life safety and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Noise-dampening Products
Sound Acoustic Solutions Inc.SilentCurtain is a thin and flexible noise curtain that cuts the amount of sound moving through the air. It is portable and has a vinyl laminate on both sides that resists damage from sunlight and other environmental factors. The noise-dampening curtain comes in a variety of colors and sizes. The company also offers solutions for home use. SilentCeiling Black is an acoustic tile made from fiberglass. They are light enough to be installed in drop ceilings. SilentWrap is an acoustic sound barrier that works by dampening vibrations within a structure. It cuts perceived sound transmission by up to 88 percent and is made from a flexible, mass-loaded vinyl barrier that is fully recyclable. SilentImpact is a recycled rubber product made to be placed underneath many different kinds of flooring to dampen sound in noisy buildings.
Non-VOC Plaster Binder
American Clay Enterprises Inc.The PlasterPlus binder is added to the company’s earthen plasters resulting in a hard, yet repairable, non-VOC finish for the cost of a high-quality paint job. The product is sold dry in 27-pound lots through select commercial distributors and is intended for commercial projects-such as healthcare, hospitality, universities and “big build” residential. The polymer binder is mold resistant, extremely easy-to-apply and still can contribute up to eight LEED points to any project. No wonder the field response has been positive thus far. Walls coated with PlasterPlus can be wetted and reworked after application (without adding additional binder) to achieve desired results and yet is hard and durable.
