Welcome to ebuild New Product News, a twice-weekly showcase of the latest building product introductions and trends, hand-picked by the editors of BUILDING PRODUCTS magazine and ebuild, the magazine's Web site. We welcome your feedback.

Editors' Picks

Ashfield Bath Accessories by Price Pfister

Cordless Circular Saw by Hilti

Mirrorscapes by Creative Specialties

Wolmanized L3 Wood by Arch

Geneva Laminate Countertop by VT Industries

Polyseamseal Caulk by Henkel

Feature Story

The Building Products Most Valuable Product Awards: Part 2

In the second part of a two-part series for ebuild New Product News, Building Products continues to unveil its annual MVP awards. Each year, our panel of expert judges from the building industry singles out an elite group of new products worthy of special recognition. This year, 21 products—ranging from a high-efficiency furnace to a luxurious shower panel—were chosen as winners of Building Products' Most Valuable Product Awards. The selections provide some unique ideas that could make your job easier, your work more efficient, and your business more profitable. They might even add a little fun to your workday.

(EBUILD)
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Announcements From Manufacturers

Hy-Lite Unveils Brilliance Wrought Iron Decorative Glass Windows

As an expansion to its popular line of decorative glass windows, Hy-Lite Products has added a new Brilliance Wrought Iron window in fixed and operable styles. The decorative windows offer maximum privacy features and include decorative black wrought iron swirls and delicate leaves set against a high opacity glass. Window sizes include non-operable 24” x 24” and 48” x 48” units. Operable Brilliance Wrought Iron windows are available in either a top-hinge awning style or a side- hinge casement style at 29” x 29”. Each of the Brilliance Wrought Iron windows are set in double pane glass for energy efficiency.

Liebherr Introduces 36-Inch Luxury Refrigerator

The 36” size is new for Liebherr and marks the first time the German manufacturer has created a platform specifically designed for the North American market, the company says. Initial product viewings from select members of the media and the kitchen trade have produced rave reviews for both the styling and smart features incorporated into the design, the manufacturer adds. Product development has been four years in the making as the Liebherr engineering team started with the directive to make the best 36” refrigerator on the market. It needed to be the most energy efficient with the best ENERGY STAR rating of any refrigerator in this size category, to have the best use of space for maximized food preservation, and to incorporate smart features such as LED lighting and improved water filtration. The mission has been accomplished, the manufacturer says, and this well-engineered product is presently available to consumers.

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PAM Fastening Launches PC-12 Cordless Screw Gun

The lightweight, easy-to-use PC-12 Cordless Screw Gun from PAM Fastening Technology is now available for professional remodelers and contractors for a variety of drywall, assembly and numerous other applications. With a two-piece ergonomic design, the PAM Fastening PC-12 Cordless Screw Gun accommodates 1 to 2 inch fasteners and up to 600 screws per battery charge. Weighing only 5.1 lbs, the PC-12 is 14 inches long making it ideal for remodeling punch-out jobs where a corded tool is inconvenient or where electric power is not an option, the maker says. “The PC-12 Cordless Screw Gun is designed for remodelers and contractors who appreciate the performance of a well built and durable cordless screw system designed for drywall,” noted P.V. Archer, Marketing Manager for PAM Fastening Technology. “It makes quick work out of the largest projects.”

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News and Trends

Remodeling Editors Focus on the Latest Tool Storage Products

The options for lugging around a bunch of tools are no longer limited to the run-of-the-mill tool belt or same old toolbox. Several variations for tool storage and transportation are available, including open-top tool bags, truck bed-accessible storage chests, and oversized tool pouches, among others. Each of the featured products emphasizes protecting, organizing, and making it easier to transport tools for a variety of situations.

(REMODELING Online)

Builder and Product Supplier Form Successful Partnership

Moen has a room full of plaques and trophies honoring its service and products, but lately the supplier of faucets and fixtures has had to work harder to earn them.

Like many building products suppliers, Moen is caught in the big squeeze between escalating costs of raw materials and pressure from its market-challenged customers to take smaller margins.

(BIG BUILDER Online)