Milgard. To ensure windows do not get damaged during the constru… Milgard. To ensure windows do not get damaged during the construction process, the manufacturer now offers the SmartCase installation system. Rather than installing window units into framing early in the construction process, a durable structural frame sill pan and cover are inserting, allowing installation of weatherproofing, cladding, and trim before glass is in place. Then, the worker can insert an adhesive tape and snap the interior window into place. A snap-on exterior trim adds a decorative element. The system accepts any Milgard vinyl window. pro.milgard.com. –Victoria Markovitz
TimberTech. Available in cedar or gray colors, ReliaBoard deckin… TimberTech. Available in cedar or gray colors, ReliaBoard decking offers homeowners an alternative to wood decking that features the durability and low maintenance of composite at a lower price point. The boards feature a flat-grain surface and a square edge, and are available in 12-, 16-, or 20-foot lengths. The maker is offering a 25-year limited, one-time transferable warranty. www.timbertech.com. –Lauren Hunter
Broan-NuTone. The company’s recessed fan/lights now include a … Broan-NuTone. The company’s recessed fan/lights now include a sensor that turns the fan on when it senses a quick rise in humidity then turns it off automatically. The Energy Star-rated unit looks like a traditional recessed light, but contains a concealed 70-cfm ventilation fan that operates at 1.5 sones. The auto shut-off feature is adjustable from five to 60 minutes or can be operated manually. The fan is UL listed for use over the tub or shower. www.broan.com. –Katy Tomasulo
Behr. Ideal for drywall installers, Premium Select High Build Pr… Behr. Ideal for drywall installers, Premium Select High Build Primer & Sealer is designed to help professionals save time, money, and materials during the drywall-finishing process. The high-viscosity primer goes on thick to fill and hide minor imperfections before applying color topcoat. The high-build properties minimize imperfections such as paper fuzz, minor sanding grooves, nicks, and pinholes, and ensures topcoats present a smooth and consistent sheen. Available through special order only. www.behrpro.com. –L.H.
Georgia-Pacific. DryPly plywood subfloor has a water-repellant c… Georgia-Pacific. DryPly plywood subfloor has a water-repellant coating that absorbs up to 40% less water during the normal construction cycle than uncoated plywood, the maker says. Backed by a lifetime limited warranty, the product is also SFI certified. 800-284-5347. www.gp.com. –V.M.
Simpson Strong-Tie. The LSCZ connector provides a concealed conn… Simpson Strong-Tie. The LSCZ connector provides a concealed connection between the stair stringer and the carrying header or rim joist, replacing additional framing and toe-nailing. The product is suitable for solid or notch stringers, the firm says, and is field-slopeable to all common stair stringer pitches. A ZMax coating provides corrosion protection. www.strong-tie.com. –K.T.
Verve Living Systems. The firm has added thermostat control to i… Verve Living Systems. The firm has added thermostat control to its wireless system of lighting and fan controls. The product’s self-powering, battery-free switches can be programmed at home by the homeowner for control of individual or groupings of lights and fans. By combining radio frequency with energy-harvesting technology, Verve eliminates the need for wiring between light fixtures and light switches, saving installers time and money. www.vervelivingsystems.com. –V.M.
Huber Engineered Woods. The company has refined the tape gun for… Huber Engineered Woods. The company has refined the tape gun for its ZIP System of structural roof and wall sheathing, which feature a built-in air and moisture barrier to eliminate the need for felt and housewrap. The tape gun, which is used to seal panel seams, loads twice as fast as the original gun and is designed to be more durable on the jobsite. www.zipsystem.com. –K.T.
Hanley Wood product editors are scouring the 2010 International Builders’ Show floor for the latest and most interesting introductions. Here are eight finds from the second day of the show.
