Trust the Joist
ILevel recommends using the new Wolmanized Parallam Parallel Strand Lumber (PSL) in unprotected exterior applications or where structural framing will be exposed to elevated moisture conditions. The construction on iLevel's PSL allows the copper azole preservative treatment developed by Arch Wood Protection to penetrate to the core of the product for protection from termites, mold and fungus and moisture. For free information, visit http://cb.ims.ca/5672-255.
Next Friend
Builders looking for the performance of an EIF system to meet stricter building codes for moisture protection can look to Sto's StoTherm Next system. It creates a continuous secondary air and moisture barrier to protect sheathing and other construction components. Unlike building paper or wraps that get easily damaged or torn during the construction process, StoGuard is seamless, tough and durable. For free information, visit http://cb.ims.ca/5672-257.
Climbing Higher
Your carpenters are going to love this one. The GoPro Stair Bracket System makes creating stair runs a snap. Manufactured by GoPro Construction Solutions, the brackets have scale markings indicating the staircase rise and run on the product itself, so there's a smaller room for error. Thus, it is easy to properly attach the brackets to accommodate any pitches, rises and runs. For free information, visit http://cb.ims.ca/5672-256.
Anchors Away!
Powers Fasteners' Wedge-Bolt+ is a heavy-duty anchor that can handle any wedge, sleeve or concrete screw anchoring application in virtually any base material. According to the company, the redesigned high-strength, vibration-resistant anchor is made of high boron alloy steel and is installed with a simple impact wrench. For free information, visit http://cb.ims.ca/5672-258.
Rocking Quietly
Using both Georgia-Pacific's DensArmor Plus with its own QuietRock soundproof drywall, Quiet Solution's new QuietRock DensArmor Plus 528 combines the top moisture, fire and mold resistance with excellent sound-abatement properties. The product is 5/8-inch thick and hangs, installs and finishes like regular drywall. For free information, visit http://cb.ims.ca/5672-259.
Braced for Safety
Safety is no doubt an issue on your job sites. Making them a little safer on scaffolding is the new T-Brace, found at www.t-brace.com. A T-beam is created by inserting a 2 by 10 board horizontally in the top opening of the brace and a 2 by 6 board vertically in the bottom of the brace. This allows for longer spans between supports without reinforcement. For free information, visit http://cb.ims.ca/5672-260.
Say Goodbye to Stick Building
Premier Building Systems' latest Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are made from fast-growing renewable wood. The SIPs consist of a layer of expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation sandwiched between two layers of OSB. The company claims the product maintains a 55 percent higher whole-wall efficiency over traditional 2-by-6, R-19 construction. For free information, visit http://cb.ims.ca/5672-261.
A Solid Contender
Made from fast-growing northern hardwoods and certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, LP's SolidStart LSL is a new wood line made from compressed thin wood strands protected with both end- and edge-seals. The product offers a dimensional strength of 1.75E and, according to LP, outperforms dimensional lumber. For free information, visit http://cb.ims.ca/5672-262.
Related Stories
Architecture
Space-Saving Helix Stairs for an East Village Apartment
These custom winding stairs in architect James Wagman’s 'Heavy Metal' project actually aren’t made from metal at all
Structural Systems
Brighter Veneer
Whitebark, boasts a brighter color palette influenced by sun-whitened poplar trees
Structural Systems
ZipWall Barrier Panels
ZipWall introduces ZipFast Reusable Barrier Panels that can be assembled with its spring-loaded poles and accessories.
Structural Systems
Strong-Wall SB Shearwall
This prefabricated wood shearwall from Simpson Strong-Tie offers structural support comparable to narrow steel shearwalls, with greater flexibility and lateral-force resistance.
Structural Systems
Flak Jacket protection from Weyerhaeuser
Weyerhaeuser's Trus Joist TJI joist line is now available with the company's Flak Jacket coating that enhances fire resistance.
Insulation
NapaWrap Coastal house wrap
Green & Sustainable
Hurricane Tough
ZIP System wall panels from Huber Engineered Woods are now available in longer lengths designed specifically for high-wind regions.
Structural Systems
Custom Builder Product Report: Hand & Power Tools
These products from DeWalt, Lenox and more are the cutting edge.