Walls & Ceilings articles from May 2006

Walls & Ceilings archives from May 2006

RAC(k) 'em.(up FRONT)
May 1, 2006... Believe me when I say I enjoy reader feedback. Occasionally, readers call to say specifically what they liked or didn't like in the current issue. Great. Less frequently, I receive something in writing that I can publish. [ILLUSTRATION...

Calendar.(TRADENEWS)(Calendar)
May 1, 2006... MAY 11-13 NORTHWEST WALL & CEILING BUREAU 2006 ANNUAL CONVENTION Palm Springs, Calif. www.nwcb.org JUNE 8-10 AIA 2006 NATIONAL CONVENTION AND DESIGN EXPO Los Angeles Convention Center Los Angeles www.aia.org...

PCA expects a 16.2 million ton increase through 2010.(INDUSTRY WIRE)
May 1, 2006... U.S. cement companies are currently engaged in an aggressive $3.6 billion expansion that will increase clinker capacity by 16.2 million metric tons by the year 2010. According to a report issued by the economic research department of the...

Lafarge launches customer-focused Web site.(TRADENEWS)
May 1, 2006... Lafarge North America Inc. announced the launch of its newly redesigned Web site at www.lafargenorthamerica.com. The site has been completely redesigned to be faster and more customer-focused. Users can now find expanded product information...

Demand for gypsum products to near 50 million metric tons in 2009.(TRADENEWS)
May 1, 2006... Demand for gypsum products in North America is forecasted to advance 1.7 percent per year through 2009 to 50 million metric tons. Gains as measured in dollar value will rise 3.7 percent per year to $4.9 billion, an acceleration from the...

Guardian fiberglass joins NAIMA.(TRADENEWS)
May 1, 2006... The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association announced that Guardian Building Products Inc. has joined the 70-year old trade association. GPB, one of three major divisions of Guardian Industries Corp., is one of the largest...

ACT names annual achievement award winners.(TRADENEWS)
May 1, 2006... Architectural Contractors Trade Association, of Farmington Hills, Mich., recognized four area subcontractors for their construction projects at the 11th Annual INTEX Achievement Awards in April. More than 200 people attended the event,...

Spackle.(Cartoon)
May 1, 2006... HONEY, HOW LONG HAVE WE HAD THIS STAIN ON THE WALL?... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Master Wall.(PEOPLE)
May 1, 2006... Master Wall has announced Phil Cantrell has been named plant manager of the company's Lithonia, Ga., location. Glen Smith has been named manager of product and process engineering.

Texas Lathing and Plastering Contractors Association.(PEOPLE)
May 1, 2006... The Texas Lathing and Plastering Contractors Association has named Phil Amodeo as its executive director. His predecessor, Wayne James, will continue to be the National One Coat Stucco Association's executive director.

Degussa Building Systems.(PEOPLE)
May 1, 2006... Degussa Building Systems has named Ashley Feit as marketing manager, residential segment.

North American Insulation Manufacturers Association.(PEOPLE)
May 1, 2006... The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association announces the addition of three new board members. Joining the association's Board of Governors are Roy Dean of Owens Corning, and new NAIMA members, Gary Romes, of Guardian Building...

Spray system: Earlex Inc.(product FOCUS on Spray Machines)
May 1, 2006... The Earlex Spray Station 3000 (HV3000) is for frequent decorators and DIYer enthusiasts. The tool replaces electric spray guns (Buzz guns as they are commonly referred to by customers) and offers benefits, such as versatility and easy use, less...

Hydraulic mixing and drywall sprayers: Xlent Equipment LLC.(product FOCUS on Spray Machines)
May 1, 2006... The Viper 150 and 225 are all hydraulic mixing and drywall sprayers made for types of jobs. It features: [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] * One-hundred-and-fifty- and 225-gallon stainless steel mixing tanks * All stainless steel replaceable...

Compact sprayer: Multiquip.(product FOCUS on Spray Machines)
May 1, 2006... The Essick MSE-1 mini-sprayer is engineered for the application of textures, full and simulated acoustics, fireproofing and grout. The material pump delivers volume production all day making it ideal for the small- to medium-sized jobs that...

Hardcoat stucco pump: Sto Corp.(product FOCUS on Spray Machines)
May 1, 2006... The Sto F-21 All Purpose Pump can spray most company products and operates off of single-phase 230-volt power, readily available at most job sites. It has a flow rate of 21 liters per minute and can spray up to 210 feet. The company has...

Drywall texture spray rig: J. Glover.(product FOCUS on Spray Machines)
May 1, 2006... The Wildcat operates like other texture machines and is ideal for drywall texture spraying. It has a 150-gallon mixing tank where material is both mixed and queued for spraying. The machine is small and portable with a 150-gallon tank. The...

Let there be light: in northern Virginia, Nordstrom's showcases environmental and resource friendly panels that sound and look right.
May 1, 2006... Nordstrom department store managers encourage their sales staff to remember their customers' names and clothing sizes to make the customer feel important and above all, keep them coming back. Customer service is not just ingrained into the...

Exterior building restoration: preventing moisture entry can be a difficult task, so be sure to know what problems to address and how to fix those.
May 1, 2006... Above grade waterproofing is completed at exterior building components to prevent moisture infiltration from entering the structure. Although above grade components are not exposed to hydrostatic pressure that is present in below grade...

For what it's worth: when selling, maximize the value of your company and don't let it go for less than fair market share.
May 1, 2006... As I write this article in late March, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board, Ben Bernanke, presides over his first meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee, the group that sets interest rates. The committee has just announced that they...

Prefabricated walls check out at library: hybrid technology helps preserve the treasures of the past.
May 1, 2006... A prefabricated wall system combining the durability and appearance of precast concrete with the light weight and strength of cold-formed steel framing is finding its place in history in a recently constructed facility at the Huntington...

A clockwork form: industry gains perspective as ICF foam form turns 40.
May 1, 2006... A little more than 40 years ago, the concept of a foam insulating concrete form was nothing more than a thought in an enterprising inventor's head. In the early-'60s, no one would have given odds that a newly created concrete form made of...

The chemistry of high performance buildings: the versatility of polyurethane chemistry helps spray polyurethane foam make significant contributions to high performance buildings.(HIGH-PERFORMANCE BUILDING ENVELOPES SPECIAL SECTION)
May 1, 2006... As building owners and developers demand higher performance buildings, architects, specifiers and designers look for building materials that make a greater contribution to sustainability, durability, energy efficiency and improved occupant...

Energy efficiency enhanced with air barriers: in today's building culture, green is the key color.(HIGH-PERFORMANCE BUILDING ENVELOPES SPECIAL SECTION)
May 1, 2006... Although energy efficiency and green buildings are buzz phrases in today's society, some people may not realize how air barriers can help with energy conservation, indoor air quality, reduced mechanical load and related issues of mold and...

Double whammy: for glass facades, double-wall designs are gaining popularity. Are they really better for green building?(HIGH-PERFORMANCE BUILDING ENVELOPES SPECIAL SECTION)
May 1, 2006... They're expensive, hard to design and tricky to install. A debate rages over whether they work. And they don't seem very American--although that might be changing. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] They're double-wall facades--also known as dual...

Optimizing building envelopes: while aesthetic appeal will always be a component of building envelope design, the challenge is to create systems that are durable and appropriate in their surroundings.(HIGH-PERFORMANCE BUILDING ENVELOPES SPECIAL SECTION)
May 1, 2006... As the first and often most lasting impression, the exterior of a building is its signature. Knowing this, standard design practices emphasize a building's appearance and tend to view materials based solely on aesthetic appeal. Current...

Something old, something new.(the PLASTER man)
May 1, 2006... We'll go two different directions this time around. First, we're discussing an older home and a repair project I did recently and an exciting plaster finish that I'm sure you'll be interested in knowing more about. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]...

Rebuilding sealant joints.(the FINISH LINE)
May 1, 2006... One of the questions I am frequently asked is how to fix sealant joints when the edge of the EIFS is coming apart or the sealant has detached from the EIFS, or when the sealant simply wears out. Sometimes, the old sealant can be removed and the...

Structural integrity of stair towers.(all things GYPSUM)
May 1, 2006... To what extent should society insist on terrorist-proof buildings? In post-Sept. 11, should we construct every new building so that it is completely safe from a terrorist action or should we view terrorism as a random event and and construct...

Cover story (Part one).(the GREEN thumb)
May 1, 2006... This month, we'll begin a series that takes an in-depth look into all aspects of sheathing materials used in modern-day construction. In particular, we'll focus on the environmental concerns, thus complementing the "Deja Vu x 2" series recently...

Bay of the pigs.(all in AGREEMENT)
May 1, 2006... "No matter how close a friend you are, you must kill that person. When it is over, you can shake hands and be a friend again," said Kutilda Woods, mother of golf maverick Tiger. No doubt in my mind that Tiger's competitive spirit came from his...

Trust but verify (Part 2).(smart BUSINESS)
May 1, 2006... In last month's article, I dealt with the white-collar segment of construction industry theft represented by embezzlement. Now, let's turn our attention to the more common problems associated with the theft of tools, equipment and materials,...

Orac Decor ceiling medallions by Outwater: Architectural Products by Outwater.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... With nearly 50 different designs from which to choose, Outwater's Orac Decor high-density polyurethane ceiling medallions can be used right out of the package as simple yet elegant ceiling ornamentation or can be easily adapted for use with...

New stone mason's tools: Demand Products Inc.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Commercial quality tools for stone, brick and veined stone. Now Demand can supply your chisels, hammers, grout bags and portable mortar stand. The portable mortar stand is 30 inches tall, with a 24 inch by 24 inch extra high-density...

Commercial coatings: Quikspray Inc.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Quikspray Inc. is celebrating 50 years of business in the commercial coatings industry. The company manufactures application equipment (The Carrousel Pump line) and mixing equipment (Quikstir Mixers) that are distributed worldwide throughout...

Light duty alternative for curved framing: Flex-Ability Concepts.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Flex-Ability Concepts has introduced Flex Lite, a light duty alternative for curved framing applications, including curved walls, ceilings and soffits. New Flex Lite is economically manufactured from 25 gauge G-40 galvanized sheet metal and is...

ZipWall 4 Pack Plus: ZipWall.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Lightweight and simple, the ZipWall barrier system uses plastic sheeting or canvas to contain messy areas on any job site. Goes up in minutes with no tape, no ladders and no marred ceilings. Our new 4 Pack Plus is a great way to save money on...

Vintique "ruins" another project: Master Wall.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Master Wall's Vintique was used to recreate a ruined aqueduct in Texas. Easily applied, Vintique gives an antiqued look to our superior finishes. If you're an applicator wanting something new or a distributor looking for a great product line,...

Lafarge Rapid Coat Mid-Weight Joint Compound: Lafarge North America.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Lafarge introduces an all new product to its line of quality finishing products-Rapid Coat Mid-Weight Joint Compound. Rapid Coat Mid-Weight offers the best of both worlds in joint finishing. It effectively combines the easy spreading and quick...

Fifty years and counting! The Nathan Kimmel Co.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... The Nathan Kimmel Company turns 50 years young this year. Born in the garage of the original owner, Mr. Nathan Kimmel, the company by the same name thrives today. For 50 years, the company has served the wall and ceiling industry as a one-stop...

Ready-Track: Radius Track Corp.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Try Ready-Track once and you'll never frame curves without it again. Ready-Track comes in 8- and 10-foot sections that are easily hand-bendable to your exact requirements on the job site. Once formed, Ready-Track holds its shape, so it installs...

Waterway drainable stucco assembly: Stuc-O-Flex International Inc.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... WATERWAY DRAINAGE MATS COMBINE VENTILATION & RAINSCREEN TECHNOLOGIES WITH STUC-O-FLEX AMERICA'S FINEST ELASTOMERIC ACRYLIC FINISH [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] PUT SOME SPACE BETWEEN YOUR BUILDING & THE ELEMENTS WWW.STUCOFLEX.COM If...

Mesa acoustical ceilings: Armstrong Ceiling Systems.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... New Mesa ceilings from Armstrong provide better acoustical performance, better light reflectance and better surface scratch performance than comparable mid-priced fine-textured ceilings, making them ideal for classrooms, office and healthcare...

Learn the art of plastering! Plaster Man.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Plaster Man's four DVD programs teach you how to apply basecoat, smooth coat and sand finish textures; tips and techniques on plaster repair; and resurfacing old walls and ceilings. The regular price is $295 but the special pricing is $195...

Redi Klip deflection clip: Total Steel Solutions.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... The Redi Klip is an inexpensive new clip that positively attaches steel studs to track, while allowing for structural movement. It is UL classified for 2 inches of deflection and meets all model building code requirements. Different deflections...

Continuous flow box handle: Apla-Tech Inc.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Apla-Tech again has designed the newest in innovative tools to give you more production with less effort. Our continuous flow box handle fits onto any mechanical finishing box on the market. The pump can push up to 1-gallon per minute to the...

Rx for moisture management, labor and rust: Plastic Components.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Help is here--with Plastic Components' PVC accessories and Ultra-Lath plastic lath. They offer the cost-effective, proven remedy for managing moisture, moving it out and away from your building--and control labor costs and rust, as well. Listed...

Vivaldi Venetian Plaster system: Olea Specialty Products.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Olea Specialty Products introduces the Vivaldi Venetian Plaster system by La Calce Del Brenta to North America. This easy-to-use system features more than 200 colors, a beautiful color catalog and "Stucky" Venetian plaster in three convenient...

Strong wind load wall systems and buildings: Perfect Wall Inc.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Perfect Wall Inc. wall system and buildings have been tested to withstand tornado and hurricane force winds. Testing includes wind loads up to 500 psf without failure and 17,000 psf of shear strength. It is the only light gauge metal panel wall...

With No-Coat, it's completely structural: No-Coat.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Now, No-Coat has engineered a corner system that actually becomes part of the structure. The center membrane of each corner is made of an incredibly strong, impact-resistant polymer. The inner surface and paper flap bond permanently to the...

Total time machine: Total Wall.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... Vault yourself back hundreds of years with the Old World Renaissance look of Total Wall's Plastone and Plastain Exterior Finish Coatings. Exquisite textures, subtle hues, and legendary Total Wall strength and durability are all easily achieved...

Faux ceiling beams and more: FauxWoodBeams.com.(INFORMATION SHOWCASE)
May 1, 2006... FauxWoodBeams.com introduces more than 45 different sizes of ceiling beams. Our faux ceiling beams go up to 20 feet long for a seamless look. Faux Wood Ceiling Beams are indistinguishable from real wood beams. Builders love that our faux...

Tile saw: Target.(the TOOLBOX)
May 1, 2006... The Tilematic tile saws cutting capacity is the most noticeable enhancement. The G2 saw will cut 16 inches diagonally, up from 12 inches previously, while the Super Tilematic G2 will cut 22 inches diagonally, up from 18 inches previously. The...

Replication fluted columns: Chadsworth's 1.800.Columns.(the TOOLBOX)
May 1, 2006... The company constructs the finest stain-grade authentic replication columns and pilasters for interior use. They replicate classical specifications by integrating the original formulas with computerized technology to achieve a precisely...

Utility knife system: Bon Tool Co.(the TOOLBOX)
May 1, 2006... The Dolphin Knife System permits fast and easy blade changes with no tools required. The knife quickly changes from a basic utility knife to a drywall saw or laminate scorer. Its large, ergonomically designed, die-cast handle has a storage...

Flat box corner bead kit: Adixx Tools.(the TOOLBOX)
May 1, 2006... The BeadBoxers retrofit system for flat boxes makes it possible for anyone to coat all types of cornerbeads using flat boxes. The product only needs to be installed one time, and the same flat box can be used to coat both flats and corner beads...

Natural stone plaster: Global Coatings Inc.(the TOOLBOX)
May 1, 2006... The Stonella Plaster blends crushed marble in various colors with 100 percent clear acrylic. Trowel applied 1/16 inch thick, the plaster protects surfaces subject to wear and tear with a natural stone plaster that's fashionable and functional....