Walls & Ceilings June 2011

The Perfect Fit Turn to page 13 for more info

June 2011

Volume 74, Issue 6

The Voice of the Industry Since 1938™ WC06114CERT-CC.indd 1

NEW DRYWALL PRODUCTS BENEFITS OF SIPS SUSPENDED CEILING HANGERS

M A N U F A C T U R E R ’ S

S P O T L I G H T

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PR E-R OC K. AND R OL L . Shift build times into overdrive with e2XP Interior Extreme fiberglass-faced gypsum panels. Designed for interior applications requiring superior resistance to moisture and mold in extreme job site purplechoice.info

conditions, it helps keep you and your project moving.

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june features

VO L U M E 7 4 N U M B E R 6

columns 06

Up Front by Mark Fowler

68

Straight Green by Chris Dixon

70

Industry Voices by William Courtney

departments 8

28

Trade News

14 Drywall’s Latest and Greatest A collection of new drywall, and related products and accessories.

20 High Performance Building Envelope Construction with SIPs Structural insulated panels present energy efficient alternatives for builders and strong utility benefits for homeowners.

24 Industry Update on Suspended Ceiling Hangers A study on suspended ceiling hangers and fasteners that attach the ceiling system to the supporting structure above.

28 Trim and Molding Industry Will See Growth

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Product Focus

72

Classified Marketplace

73

Advertiser Directory

Demand for molding and trim to exceed $10 billion in 2014, new study reports.

30 Water Testing Woes Water penetration testing is complicated and there are lots of rules, procedures and varying interpretations.

33 Manufacturer’s Spotlights June 2011

Volume 74, Issue 6

The Voice of the Industry Since 1938™

Manufacturers submit their latest products, technologies and company news in this annual showcase.

NEW DRYWALL PRODUCTS BENEFITS OF SIPS SUSPENDED CEILING HANGERS

ON THE WEB www.wconline.com

M A N U F A C T U R E R ’ S

S P O T L I G H T

on thee cover co er A contractor installs Strait-Flex International’s X-Crack product. Photo by Steve Smith Studios.

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

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INSTALLATION

SY STEMS Between us, ideas become reality™

armstrong.com/seismic6wc 1 877 ARMSTRONG

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FRONT BY MARK FOWLER

Stop the Insanity The truth is no designer or contractor wants a leaky wall assembly. Past water intrusion problems into walls have created billions of dollars in damage, struck fear in the hearts of architects and led to some drastic overreaction

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and insane alterations. One such insanity is the overzealous misuse of mock-up testing on exteriors walls for water intrusion. Codes were changed to meet the crisis but the International Code, in an attempt to address the past concerns of water instruction, has inadvertently created some confusion among designers, consultants, contractors and building owners. Some people seem to believe that all walls require water testing and the code proves it. They are mistaken. The rules in the code actually make sense when you interpret them correctly.

design pressure differential is established at a minimum 6.24 psf. This is fairly tough to pass and insures the wall will pass some pretty tough wind-driven rains. Fortunately, every EIFS manufacturer can produce a report verifying compliance with this test for barrier EIFS. Some consultants sell water testing for all framed walls as a good idea for added insurance. The problem is the use of these “non-required” water tests are not being administered correctly and then can lead to fixes just to pass a test, which can lead to unforeseen consequences or create future problems.

THE CODE

MOCK-UP TESTING

In Section 1403, Chapter 14 is entitled Exterior Walls and has the requirements for weather performance. This section establishes basic design and construction ground rules for design and construction of exterior walls. Section 1403.2 requires exterior walls to be weather-resistant. The envelope shall include flashing, per section 1405.3, and allow for drainage of water with a water-resistive barrier per section 1404.2. For us in the plastering industry, generic three-coat cement plaster over building paper and drainage EIFS comply with 1403.2 by incorporating both sections 1404.2 and 1403.2, and as such, do not require on-site water testing. Exterior walls that are designed and constructed without f lashings and/or a water-resistive barrier behind the cladding would require testing to verify code performance compliance. For example, barrier EIFS over framed walls would require water testing per ASTM E 331. The

The designers and or consultants who sell water testing on mock-ups will often use design pressures that are not related to the buildings per the components and claddings section of the code. They will simply start ramping up pressure until they suck water through the exterior veneer through penetrations that have never been a problem. There is a code procedure to determine the proper design pressure. If mock-up water testing is done on a wall, the test should be done with the insulation in the wall cavity and the gypsum wallboard installed and taped on the inside. This will replicate a real life scenario test. The interior finish should only be removed after the test to verify if an uncontrolled water leak has occurred. While ASTM E 1105 states the interior finish should be removed to view for leaks, this is intended for windows and doors only and meant to view window leaks and leaks between the window

| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

frame and adjacent exterior sidings. Removal of interior finish for window testing is appropriate as the inplace gypsum wallboard (interior finish) will have little to no effect on the window and its flashings during normal service life. However, exterior claddings will be greatly affected by the presence or absence of interior finishes. Testing exterior wall assemblies with the veneer cladding missing or the interior finish missing is testing an incomplete assembly. The information garnered from this test is pointless, false and misleading. It would be similar to testing a cars ability to stop, but removing the brake pads just prior to the test. When these mock-up tests start sucking water through fastener penetrations, which virtually never happens in real life, workers are directed to put sealant around fastener penetrations to seal every tiny hole. This is not code required or recommended by the plaster industry. What about the long term detrimental affects the sealant may cause against the asphaltic building paper, felt or synthetic house wrap? One example of a latent defect is the sealant can leech the bitumens out of the building paper possibly resulting in premature failure of the water-resistant barrier. If you see brown staining around the edge of the white sealant, you have to ask what long term effect will this have on the paper. Contractors would be wise to warn designers in writing “this practice may have long term detrimental effects and we will proceed only as directed by you.” Experimental ideas are just that, experimental and they carry liability. We know that fasteners have been penetrating asphaltic building paper for decades on tens of thousands of buildings in all types of weather with no issue, unless you put the wall cladding under direct negative pressure and to force water through to force a leak. We have lots of real constructability issues to solve, we do not need to fabricate or create additional ones.

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EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Bob Drury — Executive Director, NWCB

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Michael Kwart — Executive Director, ICAA Michael Gardner — Executive Director, Gypsum Association Steve Pedracine — Executive Director, Minnesota Lath & Plaster Bureau Jon Mooney — President, Acoustics by J.W. Mooney Elizabeth Steiner — Executive Director, ICFA

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WALLS & CEILINGS (ISSN 0043-0161) is published 12 times annually, monthly, by BNP Media II, L.L.C., 2401 W. Big Beaver Rd., Suite 700, Troy, MI 48084-3333. Telephone: (248) 362-3700, Fax: (248) 362-0317. No charge for subscriptions to qualified individuals. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualified individuals in the U.S.A.: $115.00 USD. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualified individuals in Canada: $149.00 USD (includes GST & postage); all other countries: $165.00 (int’l mail) payable in U.S. funds. Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright 2011, by BNP Media II, L.L.C. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the consent of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for product claims and representations. Periodicals Postage Paid at Troy, MI and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: WALLS & CEILINGS, P.O. Box 2147, Skokie, IL 60076. Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. GST account: 131263923. Send returns (Canada) to Pitney Bowes, P.O. Box 25542, London, ON, N6C 6B2. Change of address: Send old address label along with new address to WALLS & CEILINGS, P.O. Box 2147, Skokie, IL 60076. For single copies or back issues: contact Ann Kalb at (248) 244-6499 or [email protected].

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TRADENEWS CALENDAR JUNE 22-24 PCBC Moscone Center San Francisco www.pcbc.com 22-25 TLPCA/SCWCPA Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa San Antonio www.tlpca.org

Sto Corp. and Quikrete have announced a joint marketing agreement that enables contractors to cover StoPowerall Stucco finishes with Quikrete One Coat Fiberglass Reinforced Stucco Sanded and Quikrete Base Coat Stucco-Pump Grade Sanded under a single warranty. The terms of the new warranty are the same as the StoPowerwall system warranties, up to 12 years, depending on the system configuration. For more information, visit www.stocorp.com.

SSMA APPROVES TWO PRODUCTS

JULY 15-16 FWCCA SOUTHEASTERN CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW OMNI Hotel at Champion’s Gate Orlando, Fla. www.fwcca.org

SEPTEMBER 13-16 CONSTRUCT/TFM 2011 McCormick Place Chicago www.constructshow.com 22-24 ICAA ANNUAL CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW Contemporary Resort Orlando, Fla. www.insulate.org

OCTOBER 4-7 USGBC’S GREENBUILD 2011 Toronto, Ontario www.greenbuildexpo.org 11-13 METALCON Georgia World Congress Center Atlanta www.metalcon.com For additions or corrections to our Calendar, please call (248) 244-6404.

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STO AND QUIKRETE ENTER JOINT WARRANTY

| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

The Steel Stud Manufacturers’ Association has put its stamp of approval on two products, paving the way for members, distributors and contractors to diversify their offerings to customers. ViperStud and Supreme Framing System, two well-known industry brands, have been adopted by the SSMA as association products—allowing members to license and offer the products at discounted rates. SSMA Director Dan Dry said the announcement will be good for everyone. “We believe this move will help promote competition among manufacturers while building solidarity behind the brand of SSMA,” he said. “The organization is founded on this very principle.” Members of the organization now have three SSMA-certified products to offer to their customers. “It is exciting to see that SSMA has once again stepped to the forefront to improve the framing industry,” said SSMA Treasurer Marty Kiehm. “The certification programs implemented by SSMA for both structural and light gauge continue to build on quality standards and continuity.”

GRACO TO ACQUIRE ITW’S FINISHING BUSINESS Minneapolis-based manufacturer Graco Inc. has entered into an agreement to purchase the operations of

the finishing businesses of Illinois Tool Works Inc. The ITW finishing businesses include manufacturers and distributors of equipment for architectural painting, industrial liquid finishing, powder coating and automotive refinishing. Graco said key figures for ITW’s finishing businesses include the following: • 2010 revenues of global $305 million • Operations located in the U.S., Europe, Japan, South America and sales offices and distribution capabilities in several additional countries • Technologies and brands, such as Gema powder finishing equipment, Binks industrial pumping solutions, DeVilbiss auto-refinish guns and accessories, Ransburg electrostatic guns and accessories and BGK curing technology • Global manufacturing capabilities and capacity Graco said it plans to finance the transaction through a new committed $450 million revolving credit facility and previously announced long-term debt of $300 million. The transaction is scheduled to close in June at the earliest, pending regulatory reviews and other customary conditions, Graco said. Terms for the transaction are reported to be $650 million.

SIA STATEMENT ON PI EQUIPMENT The Scaffold Industry Association has issued a statement on the industry consensus and appropriate testing procedures of permanently installed building maintenance and façade maintenance system components. “To ensure user safety on this equipment, testing must be no more than two times the rated load, or refer to the manufacturers’ recommendations,” said SIA Executive Director Laurie Weber. “Load testing in excess of these recommended standards causes safety and risk concerns. Building owners must recognize that testing above the recommended loads creates additional structural impact

which may not be observed by the inspector. The safety and financial implications of this damage, the replacement of the equipment and repair to structures are very serious.” The statement was developed by the SIA’s Permanent Installation Council. The council’s mission is to improve the knowledge of all those involved with the design, construction, use, inspection, maintenance and service of permanently installed suspended scaffolding. To read the statement, visit www. scaffold.org/userfiles/file/Website%20 statement.pdf.

GA ELECTS NEW OFFICERS The Gypsum Association has elected the following officers from the Board of Directors for 2011-2012: Chairman: Leo J. Bissonnette, Regional Manager, Georgia-Pacific Gypsum LLC, Atlanta Past Chairman: Stephen Raley, Vice President, Gypsum, Temple-Inland, Diboll, Texas; First Vice-President: John K. Donaldson, President, CertainTeed Gypsum, Tampa, Fla.; Second VicePresident: Joseph Holmes, Vice Presi-

dent, Enterprise Technology, USG, Chicago; Treasurer: Craig Robertson, Vice President – Research and Development, National Gypsum, Charlotte, N.C.; and Secretary: Michael A. Gardner, Executive Director, Gypsum Association, Hyattsville, Md. The officers were elected at the recent meeting of the Association’s Board of Directors in San Francisco. All terms are for one year and are effective May 1, 2011.

TRIM-TEX OPENS WEST COAST DISTRIBUTION CENTER Announced at last week’s INTEX Expo in Las Vegas, Trim-Tex has opened a 14,000-square-foot distribution facility in Orange, Calif. This facility will maintain the company’s 100 percent “in-stock” policy on all Trim-Tex Catalog items. The facility will ensure faster deliveries to many areas, as well as the option for dealers to pick up their orders. “Providing top quality products and delivery time to our customers is our priority,” said Trim-Tex Inc. President Joe Koenig. “This facil-

ity allows us to expedite shipments to our West Coast customers. They will also have the option to pick up their orders directly from the facility and see our products on display in our Drywall Art showroom located on site.” Koenig spoke to Walls & Ceilings at this year’s INTEX Expo. The conversation is posted as a podcast, which can be found at www.wconline.com.

CUSTOM STUD EXPANDS TO MEET CUSTOMER DEMAND Custom Stud Inc. has added another production line due to customer demand. A new light gauge deep leg track line is now operational, the company reports. This expansion allows the company to roll form to gauge and ASTM specifications. A deep leg product in light gauge thicknesses from a minimum of .018 to .033 mil. “My customers kept asking for deep leg track without the wavy leg,” said Duane Finch, sales manager of Custom Stud. “The lighter the steel, the more the wave. I’m truly pleased with the results of our new track line.”

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TRADENEWS All products are available in standard and custom lengths, metal thickness ranges from 12 to 25 gauge, with widths up to 12 inches for studs, track and joists.

SFIA NAMES TECHNICAL DIRECTOR The Steel Framing Industry Association has announced the appointment of Patrick W. Ford, P.E., as the association’s technical director. In addition to serving as SFIA’s Technical Director, Ford will continue as a principal with Matsen

Ford Design Associates, Inc. Ford is a registered Professional Engineer in numerous states and is an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and American Institute of Steel Construction. He has also served as a subcommittee member of the American Iron and Steel Institute and Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry, and served on the Board and as president of the Cold Formed Steel Engineers Institute predecessor organization.

The leader in high-performance drywall corner solutions. ®

AMICO TO LICENSE CEMCO M-SLIDE Alabama Metal Industries Corp. announced a marketing agreement with California Expanded Metal Company to market, sell and distribute the M-Slide 2-piece Expansion Joint throughout AMICO’s 14 distribution centers in North America. The AMICO M-Slide will come in both vertical and horizontal versions, delivering strong water management attributes to those found in traditional expansion joints. AMICO’s initial offering will be in the galvanized 7/8-inch ground, expanding to other grounds and zinc alloy later this year. The joint agreement will broaden into the other CEMCO water management profiles developed already.

ICFA 2010-2011 AWARD WINNERS NAMED

“In the most critical market of ultra high-end drywall ®

®

finishing, NO-COAT and HYDROTRIM are our preferred corner bead products. PremRock realizes the importance of quality, easy of use, and cost effectiveness and NO-COAT

consistently delivers the kind of perfection that our clients have come to expect.”

FLEX-ABILITY CONCEPTS ANNOUNCES ONLINE GALLERY

Carlos Aguilar Vice President PremRock Drywall Services Dallas, Texas

Join the professionals switching to NO-COAT. Call 1-888-662-6281 or visit www.no-coat.com to request a free sample. THE NO-COAT® STRUCTURAL DRYWALL CORNER SYSTEM The NO-COAT Structural Laminate (SLAM) design is a revolutionary drywall corner system that delivers superior strength and durability, saves labor and mud, and eliminates costly callbacks. The total system includes rolls, pre-cut stick lengths, arch sticks, tools and accessories for easy installation and flawless results.

Distributed by

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The Insulating Concrete Form Association announced the winners of its 2010-2011 Excellence Awards, showcasing how ICFs are used in top commercial and residential projects. This year’s winners are ARXX, Reward, Quad-Lock, and Cellox. The awards were judged by several industry experts, including Bud DeFlaviis of the Sustainable Buildings Industry Council, Donn Thompson of the Portland Cement Association and Walls & Ceilings’ Publisher Amy Tuttle. Each entry was judged on achievements set forth in each category. Projects were judged individually. The judging panel was selected to provide impartial input from various industry perspectives. For more information about the award winning projects, visit www.forms.org.

Contractors and designers may now upload photographs of dome projects using Flex-C Trac to a Dome Gallery on the company’s Web site. Dome photos can be submitted in any of six categories: entertainment, retail, healthcare, office, residential and other. The opening of the online gallery follows the recent introduction of the Dome Calculator to help designers and contractors easily determine the amount and type of Flex-C Trac needed to construct most types of dome configuration. “We’re excited about providing the opportunity for contractors to show

SPACKLE BY DAVE COVERLY off their work and to see how others are using Flex-C Trac to construct their domes,” said Robert Widmer, marketing manager. For more information, visit www. flexabilityconcepts.com.

QUAIL RUN CELEBRATES 25 YEARS Steel framing products manufacturer Quail Run Building Materials Inc. announces its 25th anniversary. The company began operations in 1986 and is a member of both the Steel Stud Manufacturers Association and the Supreme Steel Framing System Association. Quail Run manufactures a full line of cold formed steel building products using mill-certifi ed prime steel. Visit www.qrbm.com for more information.

SUNOCO RECOGNIZES TRICO LIFT FOR SAFETY RECORD Trico Lift, a privately held full-service aerial lift company headquartered in Millville, N.J., was recently recognized by Sunoco, Inc. with a Certificate of Safety Excellence.

Sunoco, Inc. presented Trico Lift President and CEO Ken Pustizzi and Safety Vice President Steve Phillips with the 2010 Award “for having achieved excellence in Safety Performance” at the petrochemical company’s Annual Contractor Safety Recognition Luncheon. According to Sunoco officials, the award is given to those who have demonstrated a commitment to safety at Sunoco’s Marcus Hook, Philadelphia and Frankford Plants in Pennsyl-

vania by achieving an OSHA compliance record of no recordable injuries. “Having been a contractor at Sunoco’s refineries since 1986, we’re very pleased to continue to be recognized for our work there,” Pustizzi said. “Their use of our equipment and services to maintain their facilities and conduct their refinery operations is a partnership we take seriously.” Trico Lift has been previously recognized in the industry for its safe work performance having received annual awards from the American Subcontractors Association of New Jersey, the American Builders and Contractors Chesapeake Shores Chapter and the National Petrochemical and Refiners Association. The aerial work platform company serves customers in the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest and Gulf region markets. Its equipment fleet is made up primarily of boom lifts, scissor lifts and rough terrain forklifts and has been ranked the 14th largest in North America and among the top 50 access fleets in the world. W&C

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product

FOCUS

on

Spray Equipment Spray gun and hopper KRAFT TOOL CO. The EZY Deck Pro Gun & Hopper sprays overlay and decking material and features a built-in downward hopper angle, ideal for decks and floors with flexible neck for variable positions. The product features a built-in fingertip handle and full grip trigger for ease and comfort. It comes with a removable nozzle and three removable tips for easy clean up. If you read this article, please circle number 381.

Stucco pump STO CORP. The company’s All Purpose Stucco Pump can spray most of the company’s products, including its Powerwall Stucco and operates off of single-phase 230-volt power. It has a flow rate of 21 liters per minute and can spray up to 210 feet. Using the pump can help applicators complete stucco jobs faster and more efficiently. If you read this article, please circle number 383.

Texture sprayer TITAN The PowerTex Texture Sprayer allows contractors to make easy work of touch up jobs or small projects such as closets or bathrooms. The tool doesn’t need a compressor—it’s powered by a high-speed air turbine and plugs into a standard 15-amp wall socket. It comes equipped with three spray nozzles, allowing homeowners to choose the right spray nozzle cartridge for the job and achieve optimal results such as popcorn, knockdown or orange peel. The nozzles are part of the Lock ‘N Go Assembly and are easy to remove or change. With its patented Lock ‘N Go technology, a simple twist releases all “wet” parts from the texture sprayer. The used parts can simply be disposed or rinsed for re-use. The tool offers variable flow and sprays standard texture materials including aggregated, unaggregated texture and diluted joint compound for a textured, high-quality finish. The twoposition, 1-gallon hopper can be configured to spray walls or ceilings without the use of adapters. If you read this article, please circle number 382.

Portable spray gun MARSHALLTOWN CO. The Enforcer portable texture sprayer features a power hopper design. A pressurized tank feeds mud through the new SharpShooter 2.0 gun ensuring a consistent spray. The tool will spray several types of textures and materials: knockdown, orange peel, acoustics, EIFS, stucco, cement-based materials, waterproofing, pool deck sealant and most gravity-fed materials. If you read this article, please circle number 384.

Spray equipment for fireproofing, stucco, plaster, and EIFS HY-FLEX The company offers a full line of spraying equipment. Fireproofing units range from small 2L3 patch units that run off 110-volt to hydraulic-powered piston units capable of 60 bags per hour and pumping distances in excess of 500 feet and 30 stories vertically. Stucco and plaster units are available in gas, diesel and electric versions and range from portable units to tow behinds. The products feature ultra-high performance rotors and stators that pump farther and last longer than conventional units used in the industry. The spray equipment is American made. If you read this article, please circle number 385.

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

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DRYWALL’S LATES I

t’s been a couple of years since Walls & Ceilings featured the latest in drywall innovations and according to our online data, profiles of the latest in products and accessories for this market continue to be popular. The magazine submitted a call of entries to manufacturers and distributors of its drywall line and the response was overwhelming. Whether it’s part of the family of new gypsum board product lines, joint compound, tape or accessories, contractors are interested in seeing what can save on labor costs, increase productivity and improve finishing. The following companies want to place their products in the hands of drywallers to see how they perform, find out what they like or don’t like and then see the market demand climb. Most often, manufacturers will field test these products by singling out a few drywall contractors and handing out demo units to get their feedback. Sometimes, the users like the product so much they will refuse to give it back. Other times, the feedback will pour in and the designers will go back to the d rawing board. In both cases, the suppliers want

Grabber’s PanelMaster

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

A round-up of new drywall products introduced to the market within the last year. Everything featured here either cuts labor time, improves productivity or helps with custom drywalling. By John Wyatt to make a good, durable product that’s easy to use.

MILLING MACHINE FOR DRYWALL Grabber Construction Products introduced its latest manufactured product, The PanelMaster, at this year’s INTEX Expo in Las Vegas. The product mills a precise corner in drywall, wood, plastic or cement board. The grooves allow material to be fabricated into aligned assemblies. This machine integrates dust control and milling capabilities into a portable format and will also be available in a completely automated CNC unit later this year. The PM line of machines allows the contractor the flexibility of not only working with drywall but also MDF and even aluminum. Many features have been upgraded from the d ist ributed M agaform line: dust collection has been improved by 40 percent over current technology. The line will allow

Full Circle International’s Trigon180 and Radius360 products and accessories

diagonal milling and sawing functionality has been improved with a multi-axis saw vs. the two-saw system available on the market. The company’s Marketing Director B evan Wulfenstein says the learning curve is relatively short. “Fabrication of simple, high volume assembly footage like soffits is very quick within a few days,” he says. “More complex assemblies are produced over a few months of fabrication experience. Whatever your architect can dream up can be produced quickly and efficiently with the PM fabrication system. The fabrication process also dramatically lowers the cost of the assemblies to make those intricate designs much more affordable for the contractor and ultimately the owner of the building.” Grabber will begin shipping the product as soon as late summer. The company will be selling the line through dealers across North

ST AND GREATEST America and globally through Flextos GmbH. Grabber representatives do stress that the PanelMaster will not be replacing the Magacon product fabricator. The Magaform 30 0 0 will still be available and serviced by distributors.

Final Coat can be applied by roll skimming or by spraying. Field testing was done over a one-year period by independent contractors and union training centers. The product has been very well received and Grabber officially announced that it would be distributing the product at this year’s INTEX Expo.

JOINT COMPOUND ADDITIVE Another product introduced officially (see also Adventures in Drywall column “Snowblind,” March 2011 W&C), is Never-Miss International’s Final Coat Ultra White. The product is an additive for drywall joint compound that is used in Level 5 finish applications. It can also be used to spray ceilings for a smooth surface, replacing the “stomp” technique. “The products that are being used to achieve a level 5 finish are expensive to use and fall short of their goal,” says Paula Tuberville, vice president of new product development with the company. “We wanted to produce a product that is more user friendly and achieves a flashfree solid surface.” The company’s target audience for the product is general contractors, drywall and painting subcontractors.

DETACHABLE HAND-HELD SANDING SYSTEM Drywall sanding tools innovator Full Circle International released a new sanding system with detachable center hubs which allow the user to create the sanding tool best suited for their particular needs. The center hub version of the Radius360 has the same performance as the original version. The Trigon180 has a detachable center hub, which gives it the advantage of getting into corners. The company’s Pro Handle Adapter is a center hub with an ergonomic handle which converts either the Radius360 or Trigon180 into a hand-held tool. The center hubs can be interchanged quickly by removing the foam replacement pad, sliding the cam lock lever to the unlocked position, then turning the center hub

 USG’s Sheetrock 5/8 inch UltraLight Panels with the Firecode 30

counter clock wise to pop it out of the tool base. “The adapter concept was first introduced with our original patent in 2003,” says the company’s president, Kent Annis. “We learned that in some parts of the country, contractors simply do not use sanding blocks or sponges on a regular basis for their detailed areas and inside corners. The finish quality of the drywall was less important because texture was applied over both walls and ceilings. These contractors want one tool to do everything quickly, including corners.” In addition to the center hub pivot mechanism, Annis says the Trigon’s advantage is in its patented flexible foam pads. These foam pads form to the wall like a sanding sponge, eliminating flipping and stuttering across the wall, creating a flawless finish. The tool has a rubber bumper built into the replaceable foam pad. “The bumper protects the corners and acts as a shock absorber on the wall, much like the rubber sole of a tennis shoe,” says Annis. “After sanding 32 houses [with the Trigon180] … we started seeing wear on only one corner of the rubber bumper on the replaceable pad.”

 Rokomat USA introduced the Gecko Telescoping Drywall Sander at INTEX Expo

June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

15

space for an onboard water bucket, has ample space inside for stashing boxes, handles, knives, sponges, etc., and is made with welded construction and a powder coat finish. The company currently sells the product direct but is in talks with various distributors, says C EO Damon Beckley.

TELESCOPIC SANDER AND VACUUM UNIT

National Gypsum continues its line of the e2 XP family

Distributors and dealers for the line include Tool Source, Trim-Tex, Tool Pro, Ames and Sherwin Williams.

INSIDE CORNERS/FLAT SEAMS TAPE The Perfect-90º, designed for inside corners and flat seams by StraitFlex International, is a 2 ¹⁄16 -inch wide laminated paper tape which allows finishers to complete inside corners with minimal sanding. Very thin but durable, the product features a pre-finished, polyurethanelaminated center ensuring straight, strong corners without the risk of damage from a taping knife. The tape will not shrink or fuzz-up during sanding and the tape’s outer edge features a diamond punch pattern for a superior bond and faster drying with no rippling or blistering. Because no compound is necessary over the center section of the tape and only a light skim coat is required over the edges, the result should be less compound, sanding and labor. The company asks contractors to call for a complimentary sample.

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

BUCKET TRANSPORTER Louisville, Ky.-based Bucketjack Material Handling Systems International brought its Orbit D Cart to this year’s IBS in Orlando. This cart holds up to four 5-gallon joint compound buckets for ease of transportation on a high-volume finishing job site. The product was introduced to meet the needs of commercial job site logistics concerning gypsum material buckets, production maximization, safety implementation and workmans’ compensation claim reductions for interior finishing contractors. One laborer can replace the mixing duties of eight to 10 finishers as they haul, mix and perform crew prep/dispensing (via the drywall pump) from up to four buckets at a time with little or no risk of injury. The cart holds each bucket solidly, prevents “bucket spin” while raising the bucket up higher and nearly eliminates repeat handling of weight. The operator only handles the buckets one time each until they’re ready to be either refilled or tossed. The Orbit D also includes a

Rokamat USA showcased its Gecko Telescoping Drywall Sander with H35 HEPA Automatic Filter Cleaning Vacuum with Jöst Air Permeable Abrasives at this year’s INTEX Expo. Originally introduced by parent company Rokamat in Europe, the product has now been launched stateside. The Gecko has a flexible shaft connecting the tool to a separate motor worn around the waist to reduce the weight of the tool in the hand. The motor has a speed control varying from 350 to 1,700 rpm. Its 8¾-inch sanding head has a cylindrical bellows mount with suspension that flexes in every direction to conform to the surface. The head angle adjusts from 90 degrees to vertical to prevent head flops when sanding walls or ceilings. A bail handle moves up and down the tool and an onboard two-foot extension slides in and out to enable comfortable work at floor level or on a 10-foot ceiling. The company supplies Jöst abrasives for use with the Gecko. Dust f lows across its coated su rface through hundreds of small holes a nd a i r p er meable , non-woven backing into eight large holes in the Gecko sanding head, through the tool body and extension tube and out the vacuum port into the hose. The surface of the abrasive reduces clogging and the need to change pads, allowing longer working without interruption. The vacuum has a high suction of 140 CFM with a nine-gallon capacity. When the controller senses reduced suction, it shakes dust off the dual HEPA filters electromagnetically to allow continuous working until the bag fills. The vacuum includes variable speed control, automatic on/off controlled by tool power with a five-second delay and casters for greater mobility.

 AirRenew, from CertainTeed, debuted last year at Greenbuild  Fulcrum Composites’s Curve Corners

“One can be productive in about an hour, but maximum effectiveness with the tool requires some training,” says Brian Hammerstein, general manager with Rokamat USA. “We are developing a formal certification program. We are working with a few key customers now to optimize it for the softer drywall materials used in the U.S. as opposed to those used in Europe. We expect to deliver the final [U.S.] version in quantity in June.”

LIGHT, FIRECODED GYPSUM PANELS USG used this year’s INTEX Expo to showcase its addition to Sheetrock UltraLight Panels with the Firecode 30. In addition to the ½-inch, the 5/8-inch non-Type X gypsum panels are up to 30 percent lighter than standard Type X, making them easier to transport, lift, carry and install. Optimally designed for non-rated partitions, as well as wood or steel framed single layer partitions where building codes require 30-minute fire ratings, the panels meet or exceed ASTM C1396 and building code requirements for 5/8inch gypsum wallboard (non-Type X). They also meet the CHPS standard for low volatile organic compounds (meets CA 01350) with no detectable VOCs. The panels feature a patented, reengineered core encased in proprietary face and back papers for a high strength-to-weight ratio composite design. The 100-percent recycled natural finish face paper is folded around the long edges to reinforce and pro-

tect the core and the ends are cut square and even. The long edges of the panels are tapered, allowing joints to be reinforced and concealed with joint treatment systems. The panels meet or exceed ASTM C1396 and building code requirements for 5/8inch gypsum wallboard (non-Type X). The UltraLight panel line will be available through L&W Supply Corp., as well as independent dealers. The product will be available in June 2011. Initial markets include the Ohio River Valley, the midAtlantic, the Southeast, the Carolinas, and the upper central Midwest. Additional markets will be added in late 2011 or early 2012.

BULLNOSE CORNERS FOR INSIDE/ OUTSIDE WALLS Curve-Corners are internal, external and bullnose pieces for use in commercial and residential buildings. Manufactured by Fulcrum Composites Inc., the 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. Curve-Corners are extremely lightweight and durable. They are available in 8-foot and 10-foot lengths, 1/2-inch and 5/8-inch thicknesses

and dimensions to match both 2x4 stud walls and steel framing. They can be specified with or without tapered edges. “We were approached by a local architect who on seeing the range of possibilities with our curved panels asked if it would be possible to develop curved corners that would be completely compatible with drywall,” says Pam Hubbell, marketing director with Fulcrum Composites. “As everyone knows, curves are possible in drywall as long as they are not too tight. Once you get below a certain radius, curving drywall becomes very problematic. The architect wanted to make quite small internal and external radius corners—too small to bend drywall but too large for existing corner beads. We developed the product for him and had so much interest that we decided to standardize it as a product line.” The product was launched last year and Fulcrum Composites Inc. is currently seeking national and international distribution. “An added benefit is that the foam cores of the panels offer better insulation than normal drywall. This is especially significant for room corners against an outside wall,” says Hubbell. “Even with good framing and insulation practices, corners are typically less well-insulated than the rest of the wall, resulting in a cold strip in the corner of the room. This results in a ‘waterfall’ of cold air constantly dropping down the corner and across the floor of the

June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

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Pro X Framing System, from Brady Innovations and CEMCO

room. The extra insulation provided by the curved corners helps to eliminate this.”

FAMILY OF FIBERGLASS-FACED GYPSUM PANELS

National Gypsum’s e2 XP family of extended exposure fiberglass-faced gypsum panels are used to withstand up to 12 months of exposure to typical weather conditions. The line was developed with a coating formulation applied to engineered fiberglass mats. Once converted, these facers enclose a core specially treated to be resistant to moisture and mold. This line consists of four products: e 2 XP Sheathing (used for outside of sidewall and soffit framing as a water resistant underlayment), e2XP Shaftliner (used to construct lightweight fire barriers for cavity shaftwalls and stairwells in commercial construction and area separation fire walls in multifamily housing), e2XP Interior Extreme (used in both wood and metal frame interior construction for pre-rock applications, the interior side of exterior walls and where moisture exposure is likely) and e2XP Tile Backer (used as a substrate for interior tile applications in high moisture areas). The company says that all products are available nationwide and for export. “Our family of e 2 XP products allows us to offer a complete line

18

| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

of fiberglass-faced gypsum panels which provide our customers an innovative alternative with enhanced performance characteristics over existing gypsum board products,” says Jay Watt, director of sales and marketing /product development with the company.

DRYWALL STEEL FRAMING SYSTEM Another product launch from this year’s INTEX is the ProX RO framing system, offered by CEMCO and Brady Innovations. The system includes the ProX RO Jamb Studs (wide f lange jamb studs), ProX Header and two connection clips that save time by eliminating welding, strapping and plating. The product is a systems approach to door, window and mechanical opening framing using less steel and less labor to install providing a smooth framing substrate —“resulting in better quality drywall finish and a safer installation,” says Todd Brady, president of Brady Innovations. “It was introduced into the market to provide a systems approach for framing contractors and architects and engineers who specify, detail and install metal stud framing,” says Brady. “Also drywall installers greatly benefit from this smooth framing substrate.” The ProX Header and ProX RO Jamb Studs are code compliant and have ICC reports.

E-Z Taping Systems’s Flame Fighter

IAQ IMPROVEMENT DRYWALL Officially launched at last year’s Greenbuild, A irRenew Gypsu m Board simply works to help clean indoor air. The CertainTeed Gypsum-manufactured product is built on patent-pending technologies to actively improve I AQ. First, the product helps clean the air by capturing VOCs, specifically formaldehyde and other aldehydes, and converting them into inert compounds that safely remain within the board. The effectiveness of this technology was validated using ISO16000-23— an indoor air performance test for evaluating the reduction of formaldehyde concentration by sorptive building materials. Additionally, the board features M2Tech technology, which is specially engineered to provide enhanced protection against moisture and mold. “Indoor air quality is one of the most challenging issues confronted by the building industry,” says Amy Lee, marketing manager with CertainTeed Gypsum. “The average American spends more than 90 percent of his or her time indoors and studies show that air pollution levels can be up to 100 times higher indoors than outdoors.” The company is marketing the product as ideal for buildings with stringent air quality requirements, such as hospitals, schools and office buildings. It is also an option for

new residential construction when IAQ is a priority for the homeowner. The board is installed in the same way as traditional gypsum board. It can be finished with water-based acrylic and epoxy paints or breathable wallpaper and can be recycled at the end of the product’s useful life. Also designed for fire resistance, the board is lightweight, does not require special tools and is easy to cut and install. AirRenew is sold through authorized CertainTeed distributors and is available in the U.S. and Canada.

MOLD- AND MILDEW-RESISTANT JOINT COMPOUND CTS Cement Manufacturing Corporation’s Rapid Set OnePass is a multi-purpose, durable, fast-setting wall repair material and joint compound. It has a mold- and mildewresistant formula designed for dry or damp areas and may be used in interior or exterior settings. The product won’t discolor paint, matches drywall color and can be painted 90 minutes after application. “There was a demand for a fastsetting joint compound and repair product that could be applied on the interior or exterior in a single coat and painted the same day,” says Mike Van Kleeck, paint line sales manager with CTS. “In addition, this product offers protection from mold and mildew, very common problems. It carries a ‘10’ rating per

ASTM D3273, a perfect score for mold prevention.” The product’s learning curve is slim to nil, applies just like a 20 minute “hot mud” and sands easily. The company says only a single coat is required. Once the product cures in

tape adheres to the seam—no mud to apply prior to tape (unless you have a wide gap). As soon as the tape is dry (approximately 30 minutes) applicators can start applying the first coat of mud. The Peel & Stick product has a pressure-activated glue on the tape.

“It was introduced into the market to provide a systems approach for framing contractors and architects and engineers who specify, detail and install metal stud framing,” —Tom Brady, president, Brady Innovations approximately 60-90 minutes, it can be sanded, painted and requires no further maintenance. The product was launched nationwide in January and has worldwide distribution.

MUDLESS DRYWALL TAPES E-Z Taping Systems—now under new ownership—provides mudless drywall tape. Its Flame Fighter Fire Tape is rated for one- and two-hour walls. The self adhesive product offers the contractor a material for unfinished fire walls designed to cut labor and reduce cost. This product has been tested and certified by Intertek and Warnock Hersey. The Quick Stick (water activated) tape activates when it is made wet and the

“While EZ Tape has been in the market for 10 years, we have purchased the line and have rebranded the material,” says Mary Zachman, sales and marketing manager. The newly revamped company launched a website in March and offers new packaging of the products in April. “We are doing extremely well in the few months we have had this product line,” says Zachman. “I attended the IBS trade show in Orlando this year … and the response was overwhelming—sales have doubled the first quarter of 2011.” The company is actively working on adding new distribution points this year. W&C If you read this article, please circle number 360.

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HIGH PERFORMANCE BUILDING ENVELOPE CONSTRUCTION WITH

SIPS O

ver t h e nex t t h re e ye a r s , builders and contractors will witness an unprecedented rise in energy-efficient construction. Energy efficiency advocates succeeded in tightening the 2009 and 2012 International Energy Conservation Code with an estimated 30 percent improvement bet ween the 20 06 and 2012 versions of the code. The popular Energy Star program for new homes will institute more rigorous standards in January 2012, and the major green building rating systems including LEED, LEED for Homes and the National Green Building Standard plan to unveil new versions.

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

Structural insulated panels present energy efficient alternatives for builders and strong utility benefits for homeowners. By Chris Schwind

A s the const r uc tion indust r y migrates towards more energy-efficient building enclosures, “alternative” building systems like structural insulated panels are emerging as a popular option to simplify the construction process and keep cost increases to a minimum. SIPs are certainly not a new technology (they have long been recognized for their insulating and air sealing abilities) but in the new era of energy efficiency, more and more builders are

realizing the time and cost saving benefits of framing, insulating and air sealing a building in a single step.

THE PATH TO A HIGH PERFORMANCE BUILDING ENVELOPE There are many ways to save energy, from using efficient HVAC equipment to low U value windows, LED lighting, just to name a few. The challenge for today’s building designers is achieving the maximum efficiency for the lowest cost.

David Peabody’s Passive House will require one-tenth of the energy used to heat and cool a typical home. The 68,000 square-foot Jacob E. Manch Elementary School (right) in Las Vegas uses half the energy of the district’s standard school design.

Although high tech systems often get more press coverage, the new IECC, Energy Star and other voluntary programs reflect the industry consensus that improving the building envelope is the most cost-effective way to cut energy use. High performance building envelopes can greatly reduce the amount of energy needed for heating and cooling, which accounts for 44 percent of energy use in commercial buildings and 49 percent in homes. SIPs improve building envelope performance by reducing thermal bridging and air infiltration, two crucial areas of envelope loss. In a typical wood or steel frame wall, insulation does its job where it creates a complete thermal barrier between the interior and exterior surfaces of a wall. But steel or wood studs at regular intervals are relatively poor insulators which form a conductive bridge between the inside of the building and the exterior. Efforts have been made to limit thermal bridging by increasing the spacing of studs through advanced framing or applying rigid foam to the exterior—a step that is required in cold climates under the 2012 IECC. SIPs avoid this problem altogether by providing uninterrupted insula-

tion. Structurally, SIPs function similar to a steel I-beam, with the rigid foam core acting as the web that allows the structural facings to carry the load without the need for studs or other structural members. Testing done at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory shows that a wood frame wall with 2x6 framing at 24 inches on center, and R-19 fiberglass insulation actually performed at R-13.7. When typical installation errors, such as compression around wiring were replicated, the R value dropped to R-11. With a solid foam core, the 4-inch-thick SIP wall maintained its R value of R-14, outperforming the thicker wood-framed wall. “T hermal bridg ing occu rs at close to 20 percent of the surface area of a stick-framed wall,” says builder and construction educator Ted Clifton, who has built several SIP homes. “When you add all the plates and lumber in a SIP wall, it only amounts to between 4 and 7 percent—that is a big difference.” Another concern in high performance envelope construction is air leakage. Convective losses account for an average 40 percent of heat loss in homes and around 30 per-

cent in commercial buildings. The solid oriented strand board facings on both sides of a SIP function as a code-compliant air barrier. They are manufactured in sections as large as 8 feet by 24 feet, meaning there are very few joints for builders to worry about. As SIPs are installed, each joint is sealed with a specialty mastic or expanding foam sealant. “SIPs start out as a large wall section with solid foam all the way through, and when you make a hole it is really easy to seal up,” says Clifton. “The assembly methods using SI P mastic and expanding foam almost guarantee an airtight home.”

PASSIVE HOUSE One of the purest examples of the building-envelope-first mentality is the European-inspired Passive House standard. By focusing on a super-insulated building envelope and passive solar design, Passive Homes use less than 4.75kBtus per square feet per year for heating and 4.75kBtus per square feet per year for cooling, roughly one-tenth of a conventional home. “The key to the Passive House is reducing energy demand to the point that traditional mechanical systems

One of sixteen separate “pods” that make up the 494,224-square-foot Eastern Band Cherokee Indian Nation School in Cherokee, N.C. (left and right) and Jacob E. Manch Elementary School (center).

June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

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Passive homes like this Bethesda, Md.-home are gaining traction in the U.S. Eight-inch-thick SIP walls and a 12-inch-thick SIP roof keep heating and cooling costs to a minimum.

Peabody’s 4,000-square-foot Passive House will rely on only a heating coil in the supply duct fed by the home’s hot water boiler and an energy recovery ventilator to keep the house warm.

become irrelevant,” says David Peabody, a Virginia-based architect who designed a Passive House currently under construction outside of Washington, D.C.

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To meet the standard’s minimalist heating and cooling requirements, he specified 8-inch-thick SIP walls with 1¾ inches of additional expanded polystyrene insulation on the exterior and 12-inch-thick SIPs for the roof. Certified Passive Houses are also required to undergo a blower door test to confirm envelope leakage of 0.6 ACH50 or less. To put this in perspective, Energy Star requires new single family homes to be between 3 and 6 ACH50 depending on climate zone. Peabody got a break when he found PanelWrights, a SIP installer willing to guarantee the envelope would meet the 0.6 ACH50 requirement. “In our case, we were already sold on SIPs,” says Peabody. “They were going to be fast and there is less thermal bridging but when PanelWrights told us they would guarantee the air tightness, that sealed the deal.” Although an estimated 25,000 Passive House projects have been built in Europe, the standard is now only emerging in the U.S. Peabody and its other proponents contend that the concept of an extremely high performance building envelope is very economical and will translate to the broader spectrum of energy-efficient housing. “I would take issue in saying that what we are doing is extreme,” says Peabody. “It is different and it is new, but with our cost only 8 percent more than a conventional house to

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SIPs applied over a structural steel frame on the Eastern Band Cherokee Indian Nation School in Cherokee, N.C.

get the product that we are getting, more people will be turning to it.” According to Clifton, builders that use SIPs for energy-efficient homes are able to keep costs down through labor savings. SIPs arrive at the job site prefabricated and pre-insulated, saving 50 percent or more over a residential framing schedule. And as new codes and standards require additional air sealing measures, such as caulking drywall at attic surfaces, the time savings with SIPs grow even more. “With SIPs, when you go around the house one time you’re done,” says Clifton. “With stick framing, you go around the house four times to frame, sheath the wall, insulate and air seal.”

CONSIDERATIONS WITH AIRTIGHT BUILDING ENCLOSURES Building an airtight building enclosure saves a significant amount of energy, but it also can create moisture problems if the building is not properly ventilated. Alex Lukachko, a researcher with Building Science Corp., recommends that all SIP homes use some source of mechanical ventilation along with sealed combustion appliances. Powerful kitchen range hoods and bathroom exhaust fans can negatively pressurize a home if a supply of make up air is not provided. “Working with a qualified HVAC professional is a good starting point,” says Lukachko. “You also need to have outdoor air brought in by a system that can effectively deliver the air throughout the house. Balanced systems with HRVs or ERVs are great. In the South, you may also need sup-

plemental dehumidification.” Moisture management is another consideration with any type of airtight construction. The lack of air movement through the wall means that any moisture that enters the weather barrier has less likelihood of drying out. The importance of maintaining a continuous drainage plane (provided by the exterior weather resistant barrier) and the continuous air barrier (provided by the interior SIP facing) needs to be explained to subcontractors. “For each hole in the building enclosure, subcontractors need to know that the hole is a break in the continuous rainwater control, air flow control, moisture control and thermal control layers in the building enclosure,” says Lukachko. Lukachko recommends sealing penetrations on the interior with low- expanding foam sealant or caulking, depending on the size of the gap that needs to be filled. On the outside, flashing and flashing tapes are used as part of a well-constructed weather resistant barrier. Diligence paid to sealing techniques, both as the panels are assembled and among subcontractors is crucial in creating an airtight enclosure and achieving the energy performance characteristic of SIP structures. W&C Chris Schwind is the president of Schwind Communications and a consultant to the Structural Insulated Panel Association. He can be reached at [email protected]. If you read this article, please circle number 361.

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23

INDUSTRY UPDATE ON SUSPENDED CEILING

Hangers T

here are many types of ceiling hangers used on today’s construction projects, including powder-actuated fastening systems, post-installed concrete anchors and eye lag screws. Other hanger types may consist of wires alone without pre-mounted fasteners, anchors or ceiling clips. Hanger wires are used to suspend the acoustical ceilings from the existing structure and may be wrapped into pigtails for casting in concrete floor/ceiling assemblies, wrapped around steel beams and joists above the suspended ceiling or hung from hanger tabs in steel deck composite slabs.

POWDER-ACTUATED FASTENING SYSTEMS Powder-actuated fastening systems and post-installed concrete anchors offer the installer and designer the benefits of speed of installation and reliability of performance. Powderactuated fastening systems have been used in general building construction and industrial applications for

A study on suspended ceiling hangers and fasteners that attach the ceiling system to the supporting structure above. By William Gould more than 50 years. These types of driven fasteners consist of hardened steel nails which are pre-fitted into sheet steel ceiling clips or other combination elements to which ceiling hanger wires or threaded rods can be attached. Powder-actuated fastening technology is supported by decades of research and development by leading manufacturers and researchers and backed up by a very successful construction practice track record on thousands of projects worldwide. Most powder-actuated tools use powder cartridges to drive a captive piston within the tool housing. The captive piston drives the fastener into the base material under a low velocity, controlled process. Fastenings can be made in normal weight concrete, lightweight concrete, lightweight concrete over profiled metal deck, steel, mason-

ry and other base materials. OSHA requires operators of powder-actuated tools to be trained on the safe and proper use of each model tool, and most manufacturers offer this training service for free at the project site. The strength of powder-actuated fastenings in concrete base materials is primarily due to two factors: bonding or sintering and keying. During the installation process, heat is generated at the fastener—base material interface and the concrete is bonded or sintered onto the fastener shank. This creates small ridges on the fastener shank which aid in micro-interlocking (keying) with the concrete base material. Both of these factors contribute to the development of fastener pull-out strength. Fasteners that are driven deeper typically have a higher resistance

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Direction of combined load on fastener (Typical)

Powder-actuated ceiling hangers in concrete over metal deck

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

Direction of tension 7/8" load on Min. Edge fastener Distance (Typical)

1-1/2"

2-1/2" 3-1/2"

Powder-actuated ceiling wire hangers and concrete anchors

to pullout. This has to be balanced with what’s achievable for a particular powder-actuated tool system but fastener driving failures can also occur in higher strength concretes when attempting to drive the fastener too deep. So, there’s an optimal depth of penetration for a given concrete fastening application. Overhead fastenings are usually associated with a slightly higher rate of fastener driving failures (no-holds) than in downward floor fastenings. This is due to the distribution of aggregates in the concrete, where larger aggregates tend to accumulate at the bottom of the floor-ceiling slab. Manufacturer’s recommendations should always be followed for the type of tool and cartridge settings for powder-actuated fastenings. This is particularly important with ceiling hanger fastening applications. Two different types of powderactuated fasteners exist with pre-tied hanger wires for additional instal-

lation ease, as well as fastener and clip combinations without wires. These types of fasteners are qualified by independent laborator y testing according to ICC-ES AC70 Acceptance Criteria for Fasteners Power-driven into Concrete, Steel and Masonry Elements, which generally follows ASTM E1190 test procedures. Sampled fasteners representative of the manufacturer’s production are installed using the recommended installation procedures, and then load tested in tension and oblique/45 degree loading orientations (and possibly shear). The mean ultimate capacities of these test samples, typically 30 test fastenings per type and configuration, are computed. Statistically based safety factors are then applied to the mean ultimate capacities to develop the recommended working or allowable loads to be used in design. The minimum safety factor utilized in AC70 is currently 5:1, with higher safety factors being required if the coef-

ficient of variation of the test data sample exceeds 15 percent. This can occur when power actuated installation tools do not possess sufficient driving energy, or if base materials are too hard or too low in strength or quality. ICC Evaluation Reports ESR-2892 and ESR-2184 provide performance data and design guidance for Hilti powder-actuated ceiling hangers. Powder-actuated fasteners are generally considered suitable for vertical hanger wire attachments of acoustical or lay-in panel ceiling systems, as long as the allowable load levels are not exceeded, and sufficient redundancy in the number of fastening points is provided. Powder-actuated fastenings should never be designed based on single hangers or fastener installations and multiple fasteners are always recommended. According to ASTM C636, “Standard Practice for Installation of Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panels,” ceiling hanger

Research laboratory testing of powder-actuated ceiling hangers

June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

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INDUSTRY UPDATE ON SUSPENDED CEILING

Hangers

Performance relationship for powder-actuated fastenings in concrete

wires are spaced at 4 feet, 0 inches on center, although different fastening patterns and densities of fasteners may be required depending on the suspended ceiling loads.

POWDER VS. GAS Another type of power-actuated fastening system uses a gas canister or propellant to drive the tool piston instead of powder cartridges. Due to the present technology however, most gas-actuated fastening systems do not provide the necessary driving energy (or power control) for setting fasteners deep enough and consistently enough in the harder concrete base materials seen on today’s projects. This driving energy threshold is approximately 90 to 100 joules. Providing less driving energy than this makes it much more difficult to achieve sufficient fastener embedment depth and required load resistance. Gas-actuated fastening systems are generally less versatile than powder-actuated fastening systems, and in harder base materials can be more difficult to achieve consistent driving power and embedment necessary for load development, but they do have their applications. Gas-actuated tools do not provide as wide a range of power adjustability as powder-actuated tools and cartridges do. Thus, it may not be possible to achieve optimum power adjustment if previous fastenings were improperly set or too shallow in embedment. In short, while gas-actuated systems do have many serial applications for which they are intended, such as cold-formed steel wall track fastenings and light duty mechanical and electrical component fastenings, powder-actuated fastening systems are typically best suited for ceiling hangers.

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

CONCRETE ANCHORS Other types of ceiling hanger systems may include post-installed drilled in anchors. These are most commonly expansion anchors, which must be set in pre-drilled holes at the anchorage location on the concrete surface above the suspended ceiling system. Frequently, post-installed anchors are used in conjunction with powderactuated fasteners for suspended ceiling hangers in seismic regions, with powder-actuated fastenings being

mum Design Loads for Buildings” include changes to Chapter 13 Seismic Design Requirements for NonStructural Components. An exception has been added to Section 13.4.5, removing some ambiguity that existed regarding the use of powder-actuated fasteners in acoustical tile or lay-in panel suspended ceilings and other distributed systems. In the 2010 edition, ASCE 7 considers these types of fasteners as acceptable for use in seismic design categories, up to certain

Along with the extensive research being done by ceiling manufacturers, parallel research into the performance of redundantly fastened systems is underway ... used for the vertical hanger wires and post-installed anchors being used for seismic bracing and compression strut anchorage. Post-installed mechanical anchors are currently evaluated according to ICC-ES AC193 Acceptance Criteria for Mechanical Anchors in Concrete Elements, which includes both static and seismic tests in cracked and uncracked concrete. ICC Evaluation Report ESR-1917 provides performance data and design guidance on Hilti concrete expansion anchors. Powder-actuated fastening systems and post-installed anchor systems for ceiling hangers can also be installed in relatively shallow composite floor/ ceiling assemblies consisting of concrete over profiled metal deck. Installations are qualified by testing in both upper and lower flute locations.

INDUSTRY STANDARD UPDATES AND SYSTEM REDUNDANCY Recent revisions to the American Society of Civil Engineers “7 Mini-

pre-defined service load limits (individual fastener loads of 90 pounds in concrete and 250 pounds in steel), when used as part of distributed fastening systems that have sufficient redundancy. Sufficient redundancy of attachments must be ensured by the designer in order to prevent collapse or overloading of the ceiling grid if some hangers fail prematurely due to improper setting or other factors.

HANGER TECHNOLOGIES AND RESEARCH New technologies include the development of alternative ceiling hanger types that eliminate the need for sheet steel ceiling clips, as well as wire ties, which may vary with respect to consistency when tied on the project site. Alternative ceiling hangers with steel clamping washer designs have been recently qualified according to ICCES AC70 and AC368 Acceptance Criteria for Suspended Ceiling Framing Systems and these hanger types have

been proven to have less deflection than traditional ceiling clips with tied wires. The ceiling hanger washer provides sufficient clamping force to yield/fracture a standard No. 12 gauge (2.05 millimeters) galvanized, soft annealed, mild steel wire (ASTM A641). These technology improvements lend themselves directly to improved ceiling hanger installation, reliability and productivity on the project site. ICC Evaluation Report ESR-2892 provides more information on this type of IBC and IRC code recognized Hilti ceiling hanger. With respect to ceiling wires, it should also be noted that according to the Division of the State Architect, Interpretation of Regulations Document IR 25-5, Metal Suspension Systems for Lay-In Panel Ceilings, No. 12 gauge ceiling wires shall be ASTM A641 type, soft annealed, galvanized steel wire with a Class 1 zinc coating. This is a particularly important point, as not all manufacturers currently supply this. Further productivity on the project site can be achieved through the use of pole tools with powder-actuated fastening systems. These extension arms mechanically attach to the powderactuated tools and offer a quick and reliable installation method from the ground or floor surface. This reduces the need for ladders and worker lifts on the project site and the hazards associated with working on elevated surfaces. Along with the extensive research being done by ceiling manufacturers, parallel research into the performance of redundantly fastened systems is underway at the Hilti Fastening Systems Research Laboratory in Schaan, Liechtenstein. This research will lead to a better understanding of load transfer, improved guidance for designers in ceiling hanger systems and the development of improved fastening systems for ceiling hanger applications. Stay tuned for more information. W&C William Gould, P.E. is Director of Codes and Approvals with Hilti Inc. and specializes in fastener qualification testing and evaluation. He is a member of the Steel Deck Institute Diaphragm Committee and AISI Committees on Connections and Diaphragm Design. He is also a member of the ICC Evaluation Services Advisory Committee. He can be reached at [email protected].

Please Circle #129 On Reader Action Card

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1/19/11 3:05 PM

TRIM AND MOLDING

INDUSTRY WILL SEE GROWTH

U

nited States demand for molding and trim is forecast to exceed $10 billion in 2014 on annual increases of 10.0 percent. An expected rebound in new residential construction expenditures from their depressed 2009 level will fuel these gains. As the housing market contracted from 2006 through 2009, molding and trim demand suffered a steep decline. Even though the recovery in housing completions will still fall short of the 2004 level, new residential demand for molding and trim will have regained its usual share by 2014. The close relationship between molding and trim sales and building construction makes patterns in construction activity the key indicator of demand for molding and trim. New construction expenditures have the most influence over demand. Installation of molding and trim products as part of new building projects, which typically accounts for more than 60 percent of overall demand,

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

Demand for molding and trim to exceed $10 billion in 2014, new study reports. By Corinne Gangloff accounted for almost 54 percent of overall demand in 2009 despite a drastically weakened new residential market. The existing stock of buildings generates demand for molding and trim through improvement and repair projects. Such activities may include the replacement of products that have reached the end of their useful lifetime or the installation of new molding and trim as part of a project aimed at improving the appearance of a structure.

new residential molding and trim fell below demand in both the residential improvement and repair and the new nonresidential markets. Going forward, an expected rebound in new residential construction will boost overall molding and trim demand. New residential molding and trim demand is forecast to increase rapidly through 2014 to $4.4 billion. Gains for molding and trim used in residential improvement and repair are expected to be more muted.

RESIDENTIAL MARKET

NONRESIDENTIAL MARKET

New residential construction typically accounts for more demand than any other market segment. From 2006 to 2009, however, the new residential market suffered extraordinary losses, dragging the overall molding and trim industry down with it. During that period, sales of

Molding and trim demand derived from nonresidential construction is projected to expand at a modest pace through 2014 to $3.1 billion. Unlike the residential market, the market for nonresidential molding and trim continued to rise, albeit modestly, from 2006 to 2009. As a

Photo courtesy of Outwater Plastics Industries Inc., Architectural Products by Outwater LLC

result, nonresidential molding and trim demand will not see the high growth rates predicted for the residential market through 2014. Within the nonresidential market, new construction accounts for the vast majority of demand. New nonresidential demand for molding and trim is forecast to increase to $2.3 billion by 2014. Nonresidential improvement and repair, traditionally the smallest market for molding and trim, is expected to remain relatively flat through 2014.

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PRODUCTS Despite competition from plastics and wood-plastic composites, wood will remain the leading material for molding and trim, with gains supported by the recovery in residential building construction. Solid price gains for wood will further boost market value. By 2014, plastic is forecast to surpass metal as the second leading material for molding and trim. Demand for plastic products will benefit from the rebounding new residential construction market, especially for exterior trim. Plastic products perform better than wood against exposure to the elements, thus making plastic an ideal choice for exterior molding and trim products. Further, improvements in the appearance of plastic have made high-end plastic molding almost indistinguishable to the untrained eye from wood molding. Interior molding accounts for the largest share of molding and trim demand. Because interior molding is widely used in all major types of

MOLDING & TRIM DEMAND BY PRODUCT, 2009 ($6.3 BILLION) Source: The Freedonia Group, Inc. Other 26.7% Molding 43.7%

Stairwork 29.6%

housing, demand for these products will receive a major boost from the anticipated rebound in new residential construction. Value gains will be slightly faster, however, for exterior trim, aided in part by demand for higher-priced, more durable materials such as plastic.

OTHER SEGMENTS Stairwork was the second largest product segment in 2009 behind moldings. Unlike moldings and other produc ts, which derive a large majorit y of demand from residential construction, stairwork demand is evenly divided between residential and nonresidential applications. Through 2014, demand for stairwork will see solid gains despite the slow growth predicted in the nonresidential market. A spike in demand for new residential stairwork will counteract the softness in the nonresidential market and decrease the cost of the raw

metals used most often in nonresidential stairwork. The other products segment will grow at the fastest pace through 2014. The other molding and trim products segment includes shutters, exterior trim, porch railing and components, decorative columns and fireplace surrounds, etc. Growth in other molding and trim demand is forecast to outpace growth in molding and stairwork demand, expanding a little over 11 percent per annum through 2014 to $2.8 billion. The U.S. molding and trim industry encompasses thousands of firms involved in the manufacture and distribution of a broad range of molding and trim products. Because molding and trim products made from different raw materials require different manufacturing technologies, a majority of molding and trim firms are involved in the manufacture of products made from only one material type. The type of companies involved in each material segment, though, remains fairly similar. Most segments encompass firms ranging from small, single-location establishments to large building product concerns that offer a complete line of products for virtually any market. W&C Corinne Gangloff is media relations director for the Freedonia Group Inc. The study “Molding & Trim” is now available. For further details, call (440) 684-9600 or e-mail [email protected]. Information may also be obtained through www. freedoniagroup.com. If you read this article, please circle number 363.

Please Circle #187 On Reader Action Card June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

29

Water Testing Woes W

ater t testing t ti is i complicated li t d and d as a contractor, if you have never had to be subjected to it, you can count yourself lucky. Water testing has made exterior plaster and EIFS work anything but business as usual. Most wall and ceiling contractors who work on condominiums have been around window water testing but may not really understand what is going on, what the rules are and how they should be applied. At the risk of being bold, many window experts and building envelope consultants don’t either, they just bluff very well. The following may help you when dealing with window troubles and water testing on walls. This is a very brief overview of a complicated issue.

WINDOW SELECTION All windows are not created equal. The performance grade per American Architectural Manufacturers Associa-

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Water penetration testing is i ccomplicated omplicated and there are lots of rules and procedures, there are also varying interpretations. By Mark Fowler tion standards determines how well a window will keep water out. (Tip: expensive looking windows do not always mean a higher performance grade or design pressure rating.)

might find it informative and helpful to see how the DP value correlates. (Tip: Too often, the DP or PG calculations are inadvertently incorrect.)

DESIGN PRESSURE PERFORMANCE GRADE R = 15 psf (720 Pa) LC = 25 psf (1200 Pa) C = 30 psf (1440 Pa) HC = 40 psf (1920 Pa) AW = 40 psf (1920 Pa) To find the value of a window rating, you have to find the AAMA “gold” label. This label will be the only verification of the window’s performance value. Is the performance grade or design pressure correct for the project? This is not your concern but you

There are two primary factors that architects should address when designing a building with regard to design pressures. First is the main wind force resisting systems, which include the structural components like wall framing, floor and roof diaphragms and shear walls. The second factor is the components and claddings, which deals with sheathings, exterior claddings, doors, windows and soffits. There are four primary factors one needs to know to arrive at a DP for a specific building:

1) Height of the building (average of the roof eave and the highest point of the roof). 2) Importance factor of the building (Building Categories I-IV). 3) Wind stagnation pressure of the building (three second wind gust from the code “Wind Speed Map”). 4) Exposure (the determination of building’s exposure A-D). The values are plugged into a calculation and a DP number is generated, then rounded up to the next increment of 5 psf. The selection of items 1 through 4 determine the DP is subjective, most notably the exposure factor. (Tip: Do not be afraid to question the values used to reach the testing DP rating. Do not simply accept them as the gospel from defect experts.) The discontinuity factor is another item that comes into play. This typically refers to the parts of the building—usually corners—where pressures tend to be higher (sometimes twice as much as the field). Graphic 1 shows areas of discontinuity or high wall and roof zones. This is used to determine the DP for windows in those regions of the building. Determining the correct DP from the code is virtually impossible. The ASCE code standard is about 100 pages long. (Tip: Andersen Windows has a relatively easy-to-use DP estimator on its Web site. This online tool is only an estimate but pretty accurate and makes it much easier to verify the correct DP. Visit Google, type in “storm watch product finder,” then click on “design pressure estimator.”)

TESTING The water penetration test should follow ASTM E 1105 and AAMA 502 -2 pro c edu re s. T he se te st s should be conducted by an AAMA accredited lab. The AAMA lab is not allowed to have influence from outside sources and/or a conflict of interest. The lab typically tests fairly. (Tip: The lab will only test to the DP provided by the defect litigation firm or the specifier; so you might want to verify that the DP number is reasonably correct. Testing to higher pressure or longer periods of time is acceptable in limited circumstances.)

A mock-up getting ready for an E 331 test.

Once you determine the DP number is correct, testing starts. For structural tests, the base DP number is used at a 150 percent value. This is a pressure stress for how the windows withstand structural forces, not water penetration. For water resistance, the number is only 15 percent of the DP rating when tested at the lab. For example, if it is a heavy commercial window with a DP rating of 40 psf, the water penetration test should be established at 6 psf for the laboratory. AAMA states that field testing should be at twothirds of that value. The 6 psf is then multiplied by .667 and the test should be conducted at 4 psf, not 40 psf as stated on the window. There are a few exceptions to the above rules. First, the lowest DP figure for any window should be 2.64 psf. Second, AW-grade windows use a 20 percent value for the established DP.

test meter hooked up to the window reads 0.77 (see Photo 1). What does that 0.77 mean and how does that relate to the DP or PG of the window? The field testing agency verifies the DP by measuring the water column. A water column is created by the negative, which draws water up, much like using a straw to drink. The more pressure, the higher the water column rises. A window rated as HC 40 (see the PG chart) will be lab tested for water resistance at 15 percent of the 40 psf (or 6 psf). For the field test, the pressure is twothirds (.667) of the 6 psf, which is 4 psf. Since the water resistance test requires knowing what the water column is and science tells that 1 psf of wind pressure drives water .1928-inches, a 4 psf will be a water column of .7712. Looking at the meter during the test tells us that the DP or PG for the window is an HC 40 psf.

ASTM E 2128 THE WATER COLUMN You are now on site and a window water test is being conducted. You decide to see what DP they are testing the windows at. You note the

This is the standard for evaluating the water leakage of buildings. This standard is often misused in water testing as a tool by consultants using test pressures beyond

June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

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Water Testing Woes

A manometer is used to determine the water column pressure, which in turn can tell you what DP they are testing too.

wh at t he e s t abl i she d DP co de requires. W hile the consultants are correct that E 2128 allows for increased pressure in terms of time and amounts of water, it is for the purpose of “recreating a known leakage problem.” This is fair if you own a building and the carpet gets wet every time a strong wind/ rain storm occurs and you need

A water test, per ASTM E 1105, using a design pressure.

to find out why so it can be fixed. It is not meant or intended to be used as a tool to create leaks to provide evidence in litigation support. It should be noted that item 10.2.7 states that “agreement” on testing methods and interpretation should between the interested parties “before” testing begins. If you are sent a notice that they plan to

test per E 2128 and use a higher DP or longer period of time than stated, because E 2128 says they can, you need to find out the intent of the test. If the purpose is to find a “known” leak problem and then fix it, go for it. If they are doing the testing to build a court case against you, I think I would disagree in writing.

Water penetration testing is complicated and there are lots of rules, procedures and varying interpretations. Water penetration testing is complicated and there are lots of rules, procedures and varying interpretations. If you are faced with water testing, hopefully this simplified overview can shed some light on the subject and encourage some good questions and guide everyone in the right direction. I would also suggest not fighting with the consultants. The contractor typically wants to solve a known leak problem too, and that it is done fairly and hopefully without burdensome and costly litigation. W&C If you read this article, please circle number 364.

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Please Circle #209 On Reader Action Card | Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

Welcome to Wall & Ceilings’ Manufacturer’s Spotlight 2011, our annual supplement with the latest news, company profiles and product developments of some of our industry’s leading manufacturers. These articles provide an in-depth look at the products you use today, as well as the companies that bring them to you. We at W&C extend thanks to the participating companies for taking the time to share their stories and information.

Stanley Black & Decker ................................ 34

Parex USA Inc. ............................................... 52

Quikrete ........................................................... 36

Super Stud Building Products....................... 54

CertainTeed Gypsum ..................................... 38

Specialized Building Products ...................... 56

Crane Composites .......................................... 40

Stockton Products.......................................... 58

Hunter Douglas Contract ............................... 42

Strait-Flex International ................................. 60

On Center Software..................................44, 63

National Gypsum............................................ 62

energex Wall Systems ................................... 46

Armstrong Ceiling & Wall Systems .............. 64

Phillips Manufacturing................................... 48

CertainTeed Ceilings ...................................... 65

SPEC MIX ........................................................ 50

Lafarge North America .................................. 66

June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

33

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Stanley Black & Decker Stanley launches revolutionary Carbide Utility Blades that last more than five times longer than the competition

S

tanley recently launched new utility blades, which last more than

tungsten carbide powder onto the edge of every blade. Diamond wheels are

five times longer than the competi-

commitment to innovation that

then used to grind a sharp finished

tion due to groundbreaking Carbide

is sparked by field research and

angle on each Carbide blade. This high-

Blade Technology. These new Carbide

conversations with professional

speed process creates a durable and

utility blades are designed to deliver

contractors who rely on our products

long-lasting edge while maintaining a

increased blade life, maintain first-

every day,” says Sara Godding, global

flexible steel blade body.

cut sharpness and offer snap resis-

product manager for knives and

The new Carbide Utility Blades

tance—three key factors that today’s

blades. “By lasting significantly longer

are sold in packs of five (11-800) for

professionals demand. The blades are

than other blades on the market, we’re

approximately $4.99, packs of 10

intended to offer heavy utility blade

confident our new utility blades will

(11-800T) for $7.99 and packs of 50

users the durability and cut quality

meet contractors’ needs and lead to

(11-800L) for $26.99.

they need to complete a variety of

greater productivity on the job site.”

applications, including cutting shingles,

34

“The introduction of our new Carbide blades represents Stanley’s

Stanley’s Carbide Utility Blades are

drywall, ceiling tile and other building

uniquely manufactured by way of a

products where precision and blade

patent pending process that uses high-

durability is required.

powered laser technology to deposit

| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

If you read this article, please circle number 287.

Every pro knows that a dull blade slows the job down. Not to mention, each new blade costs money every time you change it. Now, you can put that money back in your pocket by using the blade that can cut 5x longer than competitive utility blades. Stanley’s new blade technology uses carbide deposits on the edge to keep it sharp and reduce downtime long after others fail to make the cut. Stay sharper 5X longer with Stanley Carbide™ blade technology.*

Receive a free sample trial blade by visiting, www.stanleytools.com/carbide

*Blade stays sharper 5X longer than traditional competitive blades.

© 2011 Stanley Logistics, LLC Please Circle #267 On Reader Action Card

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

QUIKRETE One Coat Fiberglass Reinforced Stucco (FRS) Portland cement-based plaster designed for use in one coat stucco applications

that provides excellent workability and reduces shrinkage. Innovative product design and superior workability performance, unmatched by field mixed stucco, QUIKRETE One Coat FRS increases a contractor’s production on every job, whether being applied with a trowel or machine sprayed. There is little chance of error with QUIKRETE One Coat FRS. Contractors just add water and mix. QUIKRETE One Coat FRS is approved as a single coat, one-hour fire-rated wall system under ESR 1240 with minimum application thickness of 3/8 inch. Fire-rated assemblies using QUIKRETE One Coat FRS are explained in detail in ESR 1240 using substrates such as fiberboard, plywood, OSB, gypsum sheathing or EPS Insulation board on exterior walls of wood or steel stud construction.

QUIKRETE SILO DELIVERY SYSTEMS INCREASE EFFICIENCY AND LOWER COST

SATISFYING CONTRACTOR DEMANDS The QUIKRETE Company is the largest manufacturer of packaged cementitious products in North America. Through engineering and continual advancement, QUIKRETE has been a leader in supplying the construction industry with high performance products engineered to meet project specifications and satisfy contractor requirements. QUIKRETE One Coat Fiberglass Reinforced Stucco (FRS) is another premixed product that meets this

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

standard of quality. Being more than just cement and sand mixed together, QUIKRETE One Coat FRS is a dry, preblended cement-based exterior stucco engineered using a proprietary formula that only requires the addition of water. QUIKRETE One Coat FRS may be applied in a one coat, as well as a conventional two or three coat stucco system. The key to success with the QUIKRETE One Coat FRS is optimal raw material proportions, proprietary admixtures and specially graded sand

QUIKRETE offers a variety of bulk material silo delivery systems throughout the country. The silo delivery system saves time and money by increasing productivity and reducing labor costs on the jobsite. By using the silo delivery system, sand pile waste and contaminated soil run-off is eliminated. Workers on the job site can also benefit from the reduced risk of back injury normally associated with shoveling sand and lifting heavy cement bags. QUIKRETE premixed stucco products, including QUIKRETE One Coat FRS, are available in 3,000-pound (1,364 kg) bulk bags to be used with the silo delivery system, or easy to handle 80-pound (36 kg) bags. Combined with product consistency, superior workability and the availability of the silo delivery system, QUIKRETE One Coat FRS is the professional contractor’s choice to deliver on quality, reliability and exceptional service standards for each project. Call QUIKRETE today at (800) 2825828 to contact a local representative or distributor or visit our Web site at www.quikrete.com for the latest information on technical datasheets, MSDS, and guide specifications. You can be assured QUIKRETE will deliver results for your project needs each day. If it’s QUIKRETE, you know it’s the best. If you read this article, please circle number 288.

WHAT AMERICA’S MADE OF™ .

We helped a timeless classic stay timeless. When the historic Miami Woman’s Club needed renovation, QUIKRETE® products helped restore the building to its original textured stucco facade. Over 50 bags of QUIKRETE® Fast Set Repair Mortar were used for structural repair. And over 1,700 bags of QUIKRETE Base Coat Stucco were used to match the original Mediterranean exterior. It’s further proof that no matter what you’re building, QUIKRETE® has everything you need to keep pouring. And with over 90 manufacturing plants, we can speed hundreds of high-performance products right to your jobsite. QUIKRETE even offers technical support. For a free construction product guide, visit QUIKRETE.COM or call 1-800-282-5828. Please Circle #268 On Reader Action Card

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

CertainTeed Gypsum Sustainable building solutions from CertainTeed Gypsum

gypsum board uses two innovative technologies to actively clean the air. It permanently removes VOCs (formaldehyde and other aldehydes) circulating indoors and converts them into safe, inert compounds. AirRenew rounds out a broad product line including GlasRoc paperless, fully-embedded glass mat exterior sheathing; M2Tech moistureand mold-resistant wallboard and finishing system; fire-rated assemblies; area separation firewall and shaft wall; abuse resistant board, corner reinforcements; joint compounds and tapes. CertainTeed’s new Diamondback Tile Backer and M2Tech board and finishing family are GreenGuard Children & Schools Certified and have achieved the best scores possible for mold resistance when tested to the highest ASTM standards.

FULL OFFERING OF SUSTAINABLE BUILDING PRODUCTS

C

ertainTeed Gypsum operates with a responsible and environmentally conscious ethic that includes recycling, waste management, reclamation and preservation of resources. Through the responsible development of innovative and sustainable building products and systems, the company has helped shape the building industry with its interior and exterior solutions for commercial, institutional and residential designs. Product innovation is continually carried out with a focus on environmental responsibility. Research and development emphasize minimizing environmental impacts to the greatest extent possible. Products manufactured at many CertainTeed Gypsum plants can contribute LEED

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

and other credits for green building design projects. CertainTeed Gypsum offers products that can help improve indoor air quality, contain high recycled content and are designed for fire-rated assemblies.

BROAD RANGE OF GYPSUM-BASED PRODUCTS FOR NORTH AMERICA The company manufactures and markets a broad range of gypsum board and finishing products for interior and exterior building needs across the U.S. and Canada. Sustainable building solutions include the first-of-its kind AirRenew Indoor Air Quality gypsum board, the company’s newest product that is designed with a ground breaking approach to improving indoor air quality. This patent-pending, paper-faced

CertainTeed Gypsum’s offering, in combination with the full range of CertainTeed building products, provides architects, contractors, builders and dealers one partner to provide service and support for commercial and residential building projects. CertainTeed recently received the Energy Star Sustained Excellence Award by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This is the highest level of recognition from the EPA, recognizing environmentally responsible corporations for sustained commitment to energy reduction in their operations. Prior to this prestigious award, CertainTeed also received the Energy Star Partner of the Year Award two years in a row. As a member of the U.S. Green Building Council and Canada Green Building Council, CertainTeed Gypsum is a leader in the effort to provide building materials that contribute to sustainable design. With ISO 14001 and EcoLogocertified plants, the company continually promotes ways to reduce impact on the environment while meeting customer demand for sustainable building products that deliver comfort, protection and performance. Call (800) 233-8990 or visit certainteed.com/sustainable for more information. If you read this article, please circle number 272.

Add some speed at the tile backer position. When your team hits the showers—or the kitchen— Diamondback™ Tile Backer will add speed to your game. Diamondback’s unique textured pattern and coating help grip tiles to prevent slippage during installation X Lighter weight than traditional cement or glass-mat gypsum backer boards X No need to install additional vapor barrier X Scores and snaps like regular gypsum board X

800-233-8990 • www.certainteed.com ROOFING • SIDING • TRIM • DECKING • RAILING • FENCE • FOUNDATIONS GYPSUM • CEILINGS • INSULATION • PIPE

Please Circle #153 On Reader Action Card

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Crane Composites A variety of quality fiberglass reinforced plastic panels for all your project demands

C

rane Composites provides a complete line of fiberglass reinforced plastic wall and ceiling solutions. Our product mix includes the traditional Glasbord, the only FRP panel with Surfaseal, Innovative Finishes with sandstone, tile-look and linen textures and a new DESIGNS panel available in a variety of patterns complemented by matching moldings. Crane Composites has the FRP panels your project demands backed by the service you deserve.

WHAT IF FRP PANELS DIDN’T LOOK LIKE FRP PANELS? DESIGNS is the newest FRP wall panel line from Crane Composites. DESIGNS combines the traditional benefits of fiberglass reinforced plastic with innovative and attractive patterns. DESIGNS FRP wall panels have style, perform like FRP and are available with pattern matched moldings for seamless and moisture resistant installations.

GET IT DONE WITH ONE THE ONLY FRP WITH SURFASEAL Since 1954, GLASBORD protected by Surfaseal has been the industry standard for FRP wall and ceiling panels. Surfaseal provides extra protection against mold, mildew and stains. Durable, cleanable and easy to install, GLASBORD is the only FRP panel with Surfaseal and is also the only panel available in a Factory Mutual Approved formulation.

GREENGUARD CHILDREN & SCHOOLS CERTIFICATION Crane Composites, Inc. is pleased to announce that their complete line of FRP wall & ceiling panels has earned GreenGuard Children & Schools and GreenGuard Indoor Air Quality Certification. These certifications are issued by the GreenGuard Environmental Institute. As a leading manufacturer of fiberglass reinforced plastic panels, Crane Composites has progressively improved the quality of their products while increasing the use of low emitting materials. The GreenGuard Certification provides confirmation that efforts have been successful.

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

In today’s economy, time is a valuable resource and projects demand more than just FRP panels. The Crane Composites selection includes a full line of accessories including moldings, rivets, adhesive and installation tools to make installation even easier.

ABOUT US Crane Composites is the manufacturer of Glasbord, Sequentia, Sanigrid II and a variety of other fiberglass reinforced plastic composite panels. Inspired by the Kemlite tradition, Crane Composites has more than 55 years of experience building products and is a recognized industry leader in FRP applications. For more information about Crane Composites, please visit our newly redesigned Web site and online resource center at www.frp.com. If you read this article, please circle number 274.

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MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Hunter Douglas Contract How do you know when ceiling tiles are installed correctly? With a “click.” Patented technology by Hunter Douglas Contract simplifies ceiling installation

I

f you are ever uncertain about installing ceiling panels properly, Gladius metal ceiling panels by Hunter Douglas Contract puts that question to rest. With the sound of a click, Gladius notifies the installer that the panels have been installed correctly. The product was launched at the INTEX Expo 2011. “We developed Gladius to make the metal ceiling installation process quicker for the installing contractors and provide a ceiling type that reduces punchlist items or callbacks,” says Ron Rice, General Manager for Hunter Douglas Ceilings’ Atlanta, GA based Luxalon Division. “The panel simply stabs onto the grid on one side and snaps up into place on the other side. This technology allows for an extremely flat face and ease-of-mind installation.” A metal panel that lies flat, Gladius will not bend or warp under pressure from the surrounding grid. The 24-by24-inch metal ceiling panels snap into place on a 15/16-inch grid system with a patented “stab and click” design that improves efficiency for the installer.

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

“Additionally, for the specifying community, Gladius is available in a number of finishes and perforation patterns with specifiable 3/4-, 1/2-, 1/4- and 1/8-inch borders, which allows for various NRC requirements and aesthetics,” says Rice. The panels, which have a squareedged 1/4-inch reveal, are made with a minimum of 70 percent recycled content. The compressive loading on the panels occurs on the upturned edges, eliminating compressive loading on the face of the panel allowing for the flat finish. This is an essential component in critical natural lighting. Gladius Highlights: • Accommodates industry-standard service devices (lighting, diffusers, speaker and security devices); • One-hundred percent point-accessible and downward accessible; • Trim systems available; • Range of colors and finishes available; • Available in non-perforated panels, or perforated patterns with NRC rating up to .95;

• Class A fire-rated; • Interior and exterior applications available; • Meets building code for seismic zones A, B, C, D, E and F; • No VOCs, no added urea-formaldehyde; • Meets or exceeds industry standards for flatness (L/360); • Panels contain 70 to 95 percent recycled content, and are made in the U.S.; • GreenGuard Children & Schools certified for Indoor Air Quality.

ABOUT HUNTER DOUGLAS CONTRACT For more than 60 years, the architecture and design community has specified contract products from Hunter Douglas, the world leader in window coverings and a major manufacturer of architectural products. A tradition of bringing breakthrough products to market makes Hunter Douglas the choice for an array of innovative contract solutions. For more information, please visit www.hunterdouglascontract. com or call (800) 366-4327. If you read this article, please circle number 276.

Self-control

Gladius™ metal ceiling panels from Hunter Douglas feature a selfcentering, self-leveling, self-aligning “stab and click” installation system for 15/16” grid. Our innovative engineering design places all compressive loading on the upturned edges of the panel, yielding a superior flat panel face. Easy installation, flawless look, no call-backs. 800.366.4327 HunterDouglasContract.com/Ceilings

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©2011 Hunter Douglas Inc.

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

On Center Software Technology takes off with On Center Software, speeding up estimations while eliminating error

O

n Center Software is a leading construction software provider with a 23-year history of creating successful software solutions for constructionindustry professionals. Founded by a drywall estimator in need of a dedicated hi-tech tool for completing accurate bids, On Center Software faces the all-encompassing challenge of transitioning the construction industry from manual and simple spreadsheet estimating to a dedicated bidding system. The construction software developer continually seeks transform the bidding and takeoff experience through intelligent software designed to speed up the estimating process while eliminating costly errors. Quick Bid, On Center Software’s dedicated bidding program, allows estimators to complete bids quickly and accurately. Setting it even further apart from commonly used spreadsheet programs is Quick Bid’s database capability. Tasks that were once time-consuming, repetitive—and worst of all, easily miscalculated—are now completed digitally, making such steps as

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

automatic calculations and electronic vendor requests quick and efficient. Within Quick Bid, customizable databases are full of conditions related to the walls and ceilings industry. The bonus of having special assemblies, such as the Armstrong ceiling assembly, makes the estimating and bidding process even easier by grouping all of the necessary ceiling materials together and logically linking them to your takeoff data. This means, best of all, Quick Bid completely integrates with On Center Software’s ideal walls and ceilings program, On-Screen Takeoff.

ADVANCED ESTIMATING SOFTWARE On-Screen Takeoff allows estimators to complete their takeoffs entirely on the computer, using on-screen drawings and color-coded measurements. The program provides accurate measurements of walls and ceilings, and can calculate surface areas and perimeters simultaneously. This is all done electronically without the reliance of dated estimating materials, such as colored pencils and paper plans.

While On-Screen Takeoff is the most popular and singularly applied program among On Center Software’s walls and ceilings clients, its integration capabilities should not be overlooked. The monetary impact of total software integration can be measured in time saved, errors avoided and overall bid accuracy. An integrated system can also increase bid-win rates on future bids, as On-Screen Takeoff data can be instantly imported into Quick Bid to complete the bid and that data can then be stored and reapplied to future bids. Ultimately, On Center Software constantly seeks to combine innovation and usability to simplify the entire construction process from bid to project completion. By developing an interactive integration between On-Screen Takeoff, Quick Bid, and Digital Production Control, On Center Software allows you to eliminate human error and complete an entire project electronically. For more information, visit www.oncenter.com. If you read this article, please circle number 279.

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MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

energex Wall Systems “Green” wall systems for building construction, restoration and maintenance

F

or more than 30 years, energex Wall Systems has led the industry with a broad range of “green” wall systems for building construction, restoration and maintenance. Our systems include EIFS as well as direct-applied wall coatings, all of which can be used on a variety of surfaces, including metal, masonry, ICF block, sheathing and more. As an additional benefit, energy costs can be reduced by as much as 50 percent with the use of EIFS by energex Wall Systems. energex Wall Systems, which are manufactured in almost any color and texture combination you can imagine, can be customized to meet your project’s specific needs. In addition to traditional wall panels, you can create arches, reveals, quoins, and cornices for any residential or commercial job. With our ease of installation, you can expect a quick turnaround. We pride

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ourselves on the quality of our products and we are dedicated to providing you with the best service, overnight if possible, even during times of high demand. At energex Wall Systems you will always get only one grade of products, “The Best.” Our specially designed water drainage system provides extended service life with exceptional appearance all at one of the lowest costs for installation in the industry. energex Wall Systems has completed some of the most comprehensive testing programs consisting of water vapor transmission and wind load capabilities as well as fire resistance, moisture resistance, freeze/ thaw and impact resistance. Most importantly, energex Wall Systems resist cracking, stains and tendency to fade. We stand by our product and offer one of the industry’s best warranties. This means when you purchase

energex Wall Systems, you are buying products and systems that not only perform but last. Specifiers can learn more about energex Wall Systems through MANU-SPEC and SPEC-DATA at www.smartbuildingindex.com. To learn more about energex Wall Systems and our other products, or to find one of our distribution points across the U.S.A., please call our office at (888) 343-7462. Comprehensive product data, long and short form specifications, company information and suggested construction details are available on our Web site at www.energywallsystems.com. This Web site also contains a link to the accredited AIA continuing education program, “Sustainable Design through EIFS,” which is sponsored by energex Wall Systems. If you read this article, please circle number 275.

Please Circle #326 On Reader Action Card The Super Stud Building Products Family of Companies

Manufacturers of FROMAR STRUCTURAL STEEL PANEL SYSTEMS

DRAGONBOARD® US

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Phillips Manufacturing Proudly serving the industry for more than 55 years

CORNER BEAD SPECIALISTS More than 55 years ago, Phillips Manufacturing made their mark in the drywall finishing industry, perfecting the production and distribution of metal corner bead. Today, Phillips still delivers the quality and innovation established over five decades ago, with more than just metal corner bead. As specialists in beads, trims and accessories, Phillips stands above the competition as a single source manufacturer for corner beads and trims. Meeting the needs of all customers, Phillips manufactures metal beads and trims; gripSTIK vinyl bead, trims and corner caps; kwikSTIK paper faced bead and trims; and most recently introduced RollPRO paper faced flexible corner trim.

ROLLPRO PAPER FACED FLEXIBLE CORNER TRIM In March 2011, Phillips expanded their product selection by adding RollPRO paper faced flexible corner trim. This

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product is an easy-to-use, versatile product perfect for finishing irregular drywall intersections and inside corners. RollPRO features a paper faced corrosion resistant vinyl that flexes to any corner angle for quick, professional results. This product provides a smooth consistent finish with superior mud and paint adhesion. RollPRO features proprietary high strength paper with durable fibers promoting high wet and tear strength. Available in 3¼ inch width, 100-foot rolls, RollPRO comes in a convenient carton featuring a quick-grab handle and product dispenser for easy measuring.

BEYOND CORNER BEAD Phillips provides an extensive drywall finishing selection beyond corner beads and trims. A wide variety of metal channels and framing components are available from Phillips, including RC-1 Tru 25 resilient sound channels and I-Stud shaftwall products. Phillips also produces a large selection of stucco and plaster finishing

accessories including metal lath. Recently, Phillips introduced EDGEmaster roofing metals into their product mix.

ENGINEERED TO PERFORM Phillips stands behind their product quality 100 percent and has done so for more than 55 years. Their material and fabrication standards are the highest in the industry. Phillips engineering, research and development and production teams are driven toward value-added products and services. Phillips’ experienced technicians and engineers are engaged in continuous analysis of their manufacturing and quality control processes to ensure maximum quality standards. Phillips delivers innovative products with distinct features and benefits at competitive prices for a high product value. To take a deeper look at Phillips Manufacturing Co. and their products, please visit PHILLIPSmfg.com/wc. If you read this article, please circle number 282.

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MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

SPEC MIX Preblended stucco and material delivery systems increase performance and production

STUCCO CONTRACTORS DEMAND PERFORMANCE Since 1990, SPEC MIX and our team of 57 manufacturers have continuously advanced and led the construction industry with job site material delivery systems and engineered products to meet project specifications and contractor requirements. To the company, stucco is more than cement and sand. It’s innovative product engineering, quality assurance and above all it is high product performance to increase job site production and wall coverage. Our product formulations start with high quality raw materials and extend through lab and field-testing by applicators. To ensure product quality control and consistency with every bag produced, each manufacturer uses computerized batching equipment. Combined with our innovative material delivery systems, SPEC MIX exceeds your project’s quality and service standards every time.

SPEC MIX FIBER BASE COAT IS EXCEPTIONAL SPEC MIX Fiber Base Coat is dry, preblended cement-based stucco engineered using a proprietary formula computer batched for consistency and performance unmatched by field mixed stucco. SPEC MIX FBC stucco is an ICC approved product that starts with a

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specially blended ASTM C 897 sand gradation that increases the wall’s flexural strength while reducing cracking and crazing. Applicators continuously benefit from this sand gradation through extraordinary workability and finishing properties. Designed for both one coat and traditional scratch and brown wall systems, FBC is proven to reduce product shrinkage that increases long-term durability. Whether gun or hand-applied, FBC is approved by the ICC as a one-hour fire rated wall in one coat applications. All the company’s manufacturers certify that SPEC MIX stucco products are designed to meet the applicable specifications and ASTM standards. SPEC MIX premixed stucco products are available in 3,000-pound (1,364 kilograms) bulk bags to be used with the company’s material delivery systems or easy to handle 80-pound (36 kilograms) bags. To download a product data sheet, visit www.specmix.com/products.

SPEC MIX STUCCO DELIVERY SYSTEMS BOOST PRODUCTION & CUT WASTE When contractors combine a SPEC MIX silo delivery system with the high quality and consistent SPEC MIX FBC stucco, job site efficiency and productivity gains render traditional field mixing and sand shoveling methods obsolete and

far more costly than SPEC MIX. Unlike field-mixed stucco, there is no chance of error with the company’s FBC—just add water and mix. The product meets project specifications and standards every time while traditional field mixing and sand shoveling methods lead to inconsistent product, testing issues, wasted labor, wasted materials and poor productivity. The SPEC MIX system increases product quality and cuts waste on every project. The products and silo systems are environmentally friendly as sand pile waste and soil contamination generated by dumping sand on site are totally eliminated. Contractors also benefit from the reduced risk of back injury commonly associated with shoveling sand and lifting heavy cement bags. As a result, SPEC MIX improves material production by up to 50 percent. SPEC MIX is an innovator in premixed stucco development. For more than 20 years, the company has led the preblended construction products industry by following these three objectives: quality, consistency and efficiency. Now is the time for stucco contractors to capitalize on SPEC MIX innovation. www.specmix.com. If you read this article, please circle number 283.

.

© 2011 SPEC MIX, INC.

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PA1000 © 2009 SPEC MIX INC.

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Parex USA Inc. On the cutting edge of EIFS products, Quick Base is ready for use right out of the box

arex has been on the cutting edge

P

revolutionary change in packaging for

The environment benefits by greatly

of EIFS products since it entered

an industry that is dominated by the

reducing fuel needs required to ship

the market in 1987. Parex was the first

use of plastic pails. Using a box that

extra components to the job site and

company to introduce a flexible polymer-

may be recycled significantly reduces

decreases the mess that mixing on-

modified system, DPR Finish and EIFS

the impact on landfills. This concept

site creates.

drainage system. With this history of

is environmentally friendly and keeps

innovation, Parex USA introduces Parex

the trend of reducing the use of plastic

USA seeks to deliver new and innova-

Quick Base Basecoat & Adhesive.

pails on the job site.

tive approaches for energy efficient

The environmental impact of con-

claddings to the market. Parex USA will

struction has become a growing con-

ponent EIFS basecoat and adhesive.

continue to look for ways to introduce

cern to the public, governmental agen-

Simply put, this means the product

products that are greener and more

cies and developers alike. Quick Base

is ready for use right out of the box.

beneficial to the market. For more

was developed to deliver a greener

A great benefit for the applicator,

information, visit www.parex.com.

product to the market.

less time is spent managing multiple

Parex is the first to market an EIFS basecoat in a box and bag. This is a

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Parex Quick Base is a single com-

As a leading EIFS producer, Parex

| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

products and mixing on the job site so time can be focused on applying EIFS.

If you read this article, please circle number 281.

Please Circle #181 On Reader Action Card

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Super Stud Building Products FRO MAR Steel Panel System, designed with strong seismic and wind resistant attributes, are measurably safer

easier to apply different architectural exterior finishes.

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY Since steel is the most recycled material on earth, FRO MAR is an environmentally friendly product and is also an incredibly cost-effective and safer alternative to traditional exterior framing and sheathing systems. The panels help to fix building costs because they are ready-made, numbered and already fastened together in lightweight, manageable assemblies. They are easily handled on the jobsite, so structures can be erected in days, not weeks. Additionally, FRO MAR meets or exceeds the requirements of ASTM E72-02, ASTM E564-06, ASTM E1996-

he FRO MAR Steel Panel System

governmental customers, FRO MAR

is the last panel you will ever

Steel Panels are certified to withstand

The Super Stud Building Products

need for your construction projects.

winds from Category 5 storms without

Affiliation of Companies includes Safe

Manufactured in Hattiesburg, Miss., by

the need for any exterior sheathing.

Guard Building Systems, Energex

Safe Guard Building Systems (a mem-

This is accomplished because of the

Wall Systems, DragonBoard USA and

ber of Super Stud Building Products

panels’ interlocking design, which

Galaxy Metal Products. FRO MAR

Affiliation of Companies) the panel

enables them to be measurably safer

Steel Panel Systems by Safe Guard

system received Miami-Dade County

than alternative framing methods.

Building Systems are available across

T

Building Code Compliance NOA (#08-

the United States. For additional

is manufactured from structural grade

information about Safe Guard Building

mill-prime, hot-dipped galvanized steel

Systems, please call (888)-4-FROMAR

only steel panel system to achieve this

sheets. Most single-story structural

or visit www.fromarsystems.com.

rigorous approval rating. Designed with

applications can be constructed using

seismic and wind resistance attributes

33-mil (20 gauge) steel, making it

in mind for residential, industrial and

easier to screw into the panels and

1219.02) last year. FRO MAR is the market’s first and

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The FRO MAR Steel Panel System

05b and ASTM EI886-05.

| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

If you read this article, please circle number 286.

The EDGE™ EQ Drywall Steel Framing System from Super Stud lets you take the gloves off. With its patent pending rolled edge to protect your hands, no other product in the industry rivals The EDGE. Formed from the highest quality, mill prime 40KSI steel, it is UL® classified for use in one-, two-, three- and four-hour wall assemblies, and meets or exceeds the criteria of ASTM C645 and C754. So if you’re ready to take the gloves off, let Super Stud

by

give you The EDGE.

www.edgesteelframing.com

1-800-477-7883

For licensing opportunities at select locations across the US, call or visit our website. Please Circle #120 On Reader Action Card

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Specialized Building Products Specialized Building Products in partnership with Vella Venetian Plaster Systems is excited to introduce a new and revolutionary, time-saving smooth wall finishing system

LEVEL WALL 5/VELLA VENEER PLASTER

NEW MARKETS

With a variety of uses and tremendous labor savings, this

The fact that you can create a smooth wall finish with no

product brings a new level of interior wall finishing to the

sanding has opened up huge opportunities in hospitals,

industry. Whether sprayed, rolled or hand troweled, this sys-

nursing homes, hotels, libraries, computer rooms and any-

tem breaks new ground in both new construction and renova-

where else that sanding dust cannot be tolerated. Let’s not

tion work.

overlook renovations either—you can smooth out textured

Our initial idea was to make creating a Level 5 or smooth wall finish much faster and easier—we have accomplished that and much more. You can apply our product over a Lev-

and painted walls without priming first. In this down economy, there are a lot of people fixing up instead of building new. If that’s all Level Wall 5/Vella Veneer Plaster did, it would be

el 3 drywall and it will cover flaws and tears in the paper.

a home run. However, we also have people using it as a deco-

You don’t have to apply that third coat of mud, wait for it to

rative finish. Since the product is plaster, it can be tinted and

dry or come back later and sand it. This means huge sav-

used as a wall finish as long as it is sealed. We have an acrylic

ings in time and labor for any job where smooth walls are

sealer that can be rolled or sprayed on and we also have

specified.

people using our Vella wax as a sealer. If you spray the tinted

Our products dry about twice as fast as drywall mud and

product with the right equipment, you will have a finish with an

don’t get a “skin” on them as they are drying. This gives you

extremely fine stipple that you wouldn’t need to touch with a

time to smooth it out with a knife or trowel and eliminates

trowel. You take Level 3 drywall to a high durability finish in one

the need for sanding. Because it dries quicker, we also don’t

spray application, then you seal it. We also package a crushed

have issues with tape swelling or screws popping. This cuts

marble aggregate that you can add to the product and create a

out a lot of time and effort on pick-up work. It is also dries

“Marmorino”-type finish that is even more durable. Bottom line:

much harder than mud which cuts down on trade damage—

this is a very versatile product that is changing the industry.

and yes, it is patchable.

For more information, visit www.specializedbuildingproducts.com. If you read this article, please circle number 284.

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

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MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Stockton Products Stockton offers many solutions for moisture control in all conditions, specifications

M

oisture penetration and the resulting damage it can cause is an issue of major concern that the right product can mitigate, if not eliminate. Stockton offers several profiles for water management and protection—one- and two-piece products with design features that meet the challenge of moisture penetration. Quality construction calls for products that meet building code and installation guidelines. Not only does Stockton provide a variety of products that meet various conditions but custom design and fabrication are also available. When a new, unique shape is required to meet the challenge of a specific application, the turn-around time from conception to manufacturing to installation can be surprisingly short. Our moisture protection systems can include: • Wide selection of x, y and z dimensions; • Factory fabricated and soldered inside and outside corners for moisture management confidence throughout the entire installation; • Custom reveal and ground sizes; • Custom attachment leg lengths; • Radius curves; • Weep holes: typically 1/2- or 1/8inch holes on 4 to 6 inch centers; • Available in a variety of metals. Stockton Products technical service advisors provide installation and application information and assis-

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tance to architects, dealers, specifiers and contractors.

SEVERAL OPTIONS All products come standard in 26-gauge G90 galvanized. Many are available in aluminum, copper, stainless steel or zinc. Our line of moisture management profiles allows the selection of a product that matches the condition. The unique hem design of the EWC (an improved #40), mitigates the concern of moisture penetration in a horizontal condition and the two-piece design allows for movement. The OWC is the same as the EWC except that it offers two leg lengths for situations where two dissimilar depths come together, requiring a trim piece with an offset. The PWC is the one piece version of the EWC. The self-aligning, dual function MSX (M-Slide) provides movement capability at a floor line while also providing a water management system that will allow moisture to release from the top ground and lock out moisture from the bottom. The SSF (#3) combines a stucco screed and head flashing into one uniform piece. The weep screed allows any moisture to escape and travel over the top of the flashing and provides ideal protection for water infiltration at window heads, floor line or transitions to dissimilar materials. The TSF provides optimum water protection at floor line transition for

siding and plaster while also providing a clean termination point for dissimilar materials. Stucco installation guidelines often require that stucco be held up 1- to 2-inches above the hardscape foundation. The XLF provides an extended back leg to protect waterproof membranes that are required to lap under the stucco assembly. The DHF (#6) is a foundation and window head screed which provides an extended nonperforated leg. The sloped plaster ground leg allows water to weep out of the face of the plaster, while the solid horizontal return leg provides an ideal condition for backer-rod and caulking. The JBC Series provides a variety of widths for both front and back leg. The extended back leg can provide a solid surface for peal and stick membranes and an extended front return leg provides a solid metal surface for joint sealant. This type of flashing can also provide a secondary line of defense when sealed to a window or door frame. The TWM is a one piece “T” molding and the FWC is a one piece “F” channel. Look to Stockton Products for a full selection of quality stucco and drywall products—available throughout the U.S. through factory authorized building material dealers only. For more information, visit www.StocktonProducts.com or call 1 (87) STOCKTON. If you read this article, please circle number 285.

Copp er Zinc Alum inum

✔ Custom Reveal And Ground Sizes ✔ Custom Attachment Leg Lengths ✔ Weep and Vent Holes ✔ Factory Fabricated Inside/Outside Corners ✔ Available In Copper, Zinc, Galvanized, Stainless Steel & Aluminum Stockton Products™ offers a broad assortment of profiles for water management and protection. One and two-piece products offer design features that mitigate the concern of moisture penetration.

Galva nized

Moisture Management Products Provide Solutions

Stain less S teel

Moisture Management & Protection

TWM

FWC

PWC

EWC

OWC

XLF

Factory mitered and soldered inside and outside corners are available. Custom shapes and designs are also available.

JCB TSF DHF MSX

W-S

SSF

Outside Corner

OWS

BSS

NFD

WTP

DKD

SST

For More Information Call Stockton Products at 1-87-STOCKTON ©2011 Stockton Products. All rights reserved worldwide.

Inside Corner Please Circle #251 On Reader Action Card

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Strait-Flex International Stopping cracks dead in their tracks—how Strait-Flex overcomes wall and ceiling structural movement

ceiling cracks caused not only by expansive soil or geological abnormalities, but also by truss uplift, lumber shrinkage and irregular framing. It’s ideal for vaulted ceiling off-angles, butterfly vaults and inside 90-degree corners in flat ceiling areas. This patented product works by holding drywall joints stationary while allowing structural movement of framing members. X-Crack’s rigid design, hinged backbone and flexible tabs straighten uneven framing members and eliminate the need for pre-filling. Finish the job off with Strait-Flex’s Mid-Flex 250, Mid-Flex 300 or Original tapes, and guarantee you’ll see no cracks now—or ever.

BUTT-JOINTS

E

very contractor knows a building is only as strong as its foundation. But even the strongest foundation is no match for Mother Nature. When contractors build on soil that expands when wet—and contracts when dry— all sorts of problems are possible. Expansive soil creates tremendous pressure that lifts the structure unevenly and creates cracks in walls and ceilings. Most recently, Strait-Flex International is solving this problem in Las Vegas, where expansive soil is an issue. Now, avoiding drywall cracks is a sure thing. “I know what it’s like to face problems you don’t expect, because I’ve been a builder all my life,” says John S. Conboy, president of Strait-Flex. “Solving these problems for contractors is our business. We know what works in the real world—and what doesn’t. And

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we build that knowledge into every drywall product we create.” Since 1995, Strait-Flex has had a passion for watching the contractor’s back, always seeking new solutions for the toughest problems, and making it easy to put those solutions to work, so contractors can save time while increasing their production rates. Strait-Flex offers a premium line of tapes, trims and tools for drywall cracking. Every day, they use advanced technology—improved by a true builder’s perspective—to make life easier for contractors across America and around the world. Here are just a few of these innovations:

CEILING CRACKS Stop cracking where it occurs most: in the ceiling framing members where the most movement occurs. X-Crack prevents

Hairline cracks in butt-joints are usually caused by drywall shrinkage because paper tape is inherently weak at its center crease. That’s why Strait-Flex invented Butt-Tape, a 21∕16-inch wide laminated tape that produces extremely flat butt-joints fast. Ideal for commercial “top-out” applications, Butt-Tape leaves butt-joints virtually unnoticeable. It requires no pre-filling, will not shrink and doesn’t need compound over the pre-finished laminated center. As reliable as Butt-Tape is, StraitFlex isn’t resting on its laurels. “We’re always looking for better ways to solve the problems contractors face,” Conboy says. So, Strait-Flex is further testing the bonding strength of drywall tapes when compounds are thinned with varying amounts of water. After all, the tighter the bond between the drywall surface, tape and compound—the more resistant it will be to tears and cracks on flat and corner joints.

FREE SAMPLES Located in St. Charles, Mo., Strait-Flex International is dedicated to delivering the highest quality at the most affordable price. Strait-Flex tapes and trims go on quickly, sand easily—and solve the problems created by off-angles and normal framing irregularities. Just as important, these products save contractors time and money—while helping them do more of what matters most: strive for perfection on every job, every day. For free samples and more information, call (888) 747-0220 or visit www.straitflex.com. If you read this article, please circle number 261.

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MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

National Gypsum Introduces e²XP Tile Backer Fiberglass-faced gypsum panel is fourth product in e²XP family of well-known building products

N

ational Gypsum has introduced Gold Bond BRAND e²XP Tile Backer, a fiberglass-faced gypsum panel for interior tile applications in both wet and non-wet areas. e²XP Tile Backer is comprised of an acrylic-coated fiberglass front facer which provides a water barrier for superior moisture resistance capabilities. This makes it ideal for use in interior residential and commercial applications such as shower and tub enclosures, walls and ceilings, countertops, backsplashes, locker rooms and more. Like other e²XP products, this panel is manufactured with an enhanced moisture and mold resistant core and facer. It has a square edge and is available in 1/2-inch Regular and

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

5/8-inch Fire-Shield Type X, 4-feet wide in standard eight-foot lengths. It is lightweight and scores and snaps easily. In addition to scoring a 10 for mold resistance, the highest possible score per ASTM D 3273, e²XP Tile Backer is approved for inclusion in one- and two-hour UL fire-rated designs and has achieved GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification, the industry’s most stringent indoor air quality standard. “e²XP Tile Backer is the fourth product in National Gypsum’s e²XP family and allows us to now offer a complete line of fiberglass-faced gypsum panels,” says Jay Watt, director, sales and marketing/ product development. “We are

excited about the introduction of this new tile substrate, which will provide our customers an innovative alternative with enhanced performance characteristics over existing gypsum board tile substrates.” The e²XP family of products includes: · e²XP Sheathing, a moisture and mold resistant gypsum panel designed for attachment to the outside of sidewall and soffit framing as a water resistant underlayment for various exterior materials. e²XP Sheathing can be used in both wood and metal stud construction to provide fire resistance, weather protection and to add to structural strength. · e²XP Shaftliner, a moisture and mold resistant shaftliner panel with a fire-resistant Type X core. e²XP Shaftliner panels are designed to be used to construct lightweight fire barriers for cavity shaft walls, stairwells and area separation fire walls in multifamily housing. The panels are key components in the I-Stud, C-T Stud and C-H Stud Cavity Shaftwall Systems and the H-Stud Area Separation Fire Wall Systems. · e²XP Interior Extreme Gypsum Panel, a moisture and mold resistant gypsum panel designed for interior applications requiring increased resistance to incidental moisture. e²XP Interior Extreme can be used in both wood and metal framed construction for interior wall and ceiling finishing while providing increased moisture and mold resistance. For more information on Tile Backer and other e²XP products, go to purplechoice.info.

ABOUT NATIONAL GYPSUM National Gypsum is a fully integrated manufacturer and supplier of building products used worldwide. Primary emphasis is on Gold Bond BRAND gypsum board; ProForm BRAND drywall finishing products; PermaBase BRAND cement board products; e²XP Extended Exposure fiberglass-faced products; an XP family of abuse, impact, mold and moisture resistant products; and SoundBreak XP, an acoustically enhanced gypsum board. For more information, visit nationalgypsum.com.

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

On Center Software

Digital Production Control, a digital proj-

Digital Production Control—software for protecting profits

tion with On Center Software’s Quick

ect-tracking program. Supporting integra-

Bid, Digital Production Control tracks production in real time, preventing cost overruns before they happen.

REAL TIME The key to successful project-tracking can be found with Digital Production Control’s most sought-after feature— real-time tracking. This is where the protective force of an integrated system will protect profits. Production problems can be spotted and corrected in less time than it takes to generate a manual production report. Digital Production Control’s integration with Quick Bid allows project managers, foremen, owners, etc., to adjust for cost overruns as they happen, as opposed to weeks after the profit drain begins. In effect, Digital Production Control helps you eliminate problems before they even become problems. On Center Software is in the business of software. The company’s agenda does not stop at software development. As an entirely in-house operation, On Center Software boasts a dedicated support team and a state-ofthe-art training facility to further assist construction professionals throughout the software transition process. Taking on technology is a challenge to any

W

ith the advent of mobile comput-

necessary line of defense when produc-

business, but when the results include

ing, project management expec-

tion problems occur.

measurable difference, be it higher prof-

tations have shifted. Project owners

After the bidding process comes to

its or more bid wins, there is no ques-

now require more immediate informa-

a close, project managers embark on

tion that the transition is necessary.

tion as any cost overruns can now be

the guts of the project—the job site

It’s no longer about having a secret

more efficiently prevented. Knowing

is prepped and construction begins. A

weapon. It’s about staying competitive

where the budget will break is essential

business is more than a bid, and On

in a rapidly changing market.

to protecting profits, so the profes-

Center Software is more than estimat-

sionals in the field need a tool that

ing software.

can keep the profits in check. Digital Production Control is the first and only

For more information, visit www.oncenter.com.

In 2008, the company became mobile computing innovators with the release of

If you read this article, please circle number 280.

June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

63

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Armstrong Ceiling & Wall Systems Armstrong Axiom Building Perimeter—system is fast and easy to install over older installation procedures

The components include either two or three-sided perimeter pockets, both of which can accommodate a T-bar connection clip and splice plate to provide a positive mechanical lock to an acoustical or drywall grid system with no visible fasteners; perimeter pocket extension plates that allow for larger sized pockets as well as changes in ceiling elevation; and diffuser face plates in either non-slotted or slotted versions to provide air distribution at the perimeter.

21,000 FEET ON ONE JOB Installation is fast and easy. As a case in point consider Alpine Drywall of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, which recently completed its first major installation of the Axiom Building Perimeter System. Alpine’s crews installed nearly 21,000 linear feet of three-sided Axiom Building Perimeter Pockets in the EPCOR Tower, a 28-story office building that is soon to open in downtown Edmonton. According to Claude Bachand, coowner of Alpine Drywall, the crews normally would have used traditional drywall transition methods, including framing, boarding, taping, mudding, sanding and painting. However, the Axiom Building Perimeter System is far less labor intensive because it replaces all of those steps. And, as a result, was much faster. “Once in place, the perimeter system requires no finishing, which makes a big difference,” Bachand says.

CLEANER, EASIER INSTALLATION

A

rmstrong Ceiling & Wall Systems continues to provide products, systems and services that get contractors on and off the job faster, easier, better. The Axiom Building Perimeter System is a good example. The industry’s first pre-engineered solution to the transition between the ceiling plane and the interior of a building’s perimeter, the Axiom Building Perimeter System provides an easyto-install, integrated approach to the inclusion of drapery pockets, window shades, air diffusers and changes in ceiling elevation at the perimeter. Fully compatible with both Armstrong acoustical ceiling and drywall suspension systems, the Axiom Building Perimeter

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

System simplifies installation at the perimeter because it replaces many commonly used drywall transitions that involve time-intensive installation procedures. Compared to conventional drywall framing systems, the Axiom preengineered components help eliminate concerns over field fabrication of the perimeter since all elements are designed to interlock with each other to form the finished perimeter.

THREE MAIN COMPONENTS The system features three main components, all of which are made from factory-finished extruded aluminum to provide precise architectural detail and consistent quality.

The perimeter pocket can be mounted onto a structure in one of two ways, either directly to the wall or free floating. In the case of EPCOR, it is free floating and attached to the bulkhead from the slab above. “The building has a curtain wall system, so we couldn’t attach it to the exterior wall,” states Alpine co-owner, Grant Laplante. “It had to be floating.” Describing reaction to the perimeter system, LaPlante notes that both the architect and the owner were impressed with the look of the pocket. He notes that the Alpine crews also were impressed. “They liked it because installation was so much easier and so much cleaner.” For more information on the Axiom Building Perimeter System, visit www. armstrong.com/axiom6wc. If you read this article, please circle number 270.

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

CertainTeed Ceilings A full line of sustainable ceiling systems to meet your demands

and Decoustics. Our unrelenting focus on quality, ease of use, acoustics, sustainable design and occupant well-being address real-world challenges when designing and installing products in high performance buildings.

CERTAINTEED Whether our products are installed in labs or libraries, sound studios or schools, conference rooms or clean rooms, we have the right combination of performance characteristics for the job at hand. If sustainability is important, we offer a range of products that can help customers qualify for LEED credits.

ECOPHON As a global leader in the science of sound, Ecophon develops aesthetically beautiful, innovative solutions based on robust internal and independent research. That research proves that Ecophon sound-absorbing ceiling and wall systems can enhance classroom learning, speed patient healing and increase productivity in the workplace.

DECOUSTICS Decoustics is recognized around the world as the premier choice for unique custom ceilings. Capabilities include ceiling and wall systems with acoustical coatings, natural wood, woven wire and fabric coverings. In today’s increasingly competitive world, architects and interior designers rely on Decoustics’ ability to manufacture products which meet the highest of stan-

A

rchitects and interior designers

CertainTeed Ceilings is a single

specify CertainTeed Ceiling Sys-

source provider offering three distinct

tems with acoustics and sustainabil-

lines of ceiling solutions. CertainTeed

For more information on the

ity in mind. Our goal is to increase

has a full range of systems that include

company’s various product lines, visit

the comfort and even the productivity

mineral fiber, fiberglass and custom

www.certainteed.com/products/ceilings.

of occupants in schools, offices

ceiling options as well as suspension

and hospitals.

systems. Our brands include Ecophon

dards while creating legendary spaces.

If you read this article, please circle number 271.

June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

65

MANUFACTURER’S SPOTLIGHT

Lafarge North America Protecta HIR 300 Type X with Mold Defense can contribute to LEED credits in several categories

L

afarge Protecta HIR 300 Type X with Mold Defense is a high impact-, fire- and mold-resistant drywall that incorporates the proven formulation of our industry-preferred, abuse-resistant board. It consists of a fiberglass-enhanced, non-combustible, high-density, synthetic gypsum core with reinforced strong facers which guard against surface abrasion, indentation, mold and mildew. Protecta HIR 300 is further enhanced with an engineered reinforcement technology to provide a greater resistance to penetration for interior walls and ceilings, achieving Level 3 soft and hard body impact per ASTM C 1629. When used in a certified sound-rated assembly, Protecta HIR 300 will also contribute to required sound transmission classification (STC) values.

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

Protecta HIR 300 is designed for use in interior areas where a higher resistance to abrasion, indentation and impact penetration is required. Applicable areas include: • Elevator and stair enclosures in highrise buildings as required by code • Schools and dormitories • Hospitals • Hotel lobbies • Corridors • Cafeterias • Gymnasiums • Mechanical/maintenance areas • Other high-traffic and public areas on and impact penetration is required. Protecta HIR 300 Type X with Mold Defense offers enhanced protection against the growth of mold

and mildew compared to ordinary drywall products. Under controlled testing conditions, Protecta HIR 300 achieved an average panel score of 10 out of a possible 10 using ASTM D 3273. Protecta HIR 300 is GREENGUARD certified, listed as a low-emitting material with the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) and MAS Certified Green; can also contribute to the U.S Green Building Council’s LEED Credit Qualification in several credit categories. For further information on Protecta HIR 300 or any Lafarge products please contact your sales manager or visit us at www.lafargenorthamerica.com. If you read this article, please circle number 277.

 CALL FOR ENTRIES 2011 WA LLS & CEILINGS E XCELLENCE AWA R DS

Wall s & C eilings magazi ne is seek i ng

Grand prize winners will be selected by a panel

completed project entries for our Annual

of judges. Winning projects will be featured in

Excellence Awards.

the December 2011 issue of W&C. Winners

Contest Rules: This competition is open

to commercial and residential architects,

contractors, distributors, specifiers and others.

To be considered, projects must have been completed between January 2010 and July 2011.

will also be presented awards.

Apply online at www.wconline.com

For any questions call Alex Lundberg at (248) 244-6471 or email [email protected].

DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

|

ENTRANCE FEE: $65 PER ENTRY.

straight

GREEN BY CHRIS DIXON

Extended Producer

Responsibility Early in my career, I was among a small group of architects and specifiers invited to Europe to learn about the state of the art in PVC building materials. At that time, the anti-PVC propaganda machine in the U.S. was picking up a lot of steam, preying on the ignorance of thousands of architects and persuading them (myself included) to believe that PVC was the “devil’s material.” We were told that PVC was filled with toxic substances like lead, cadmium and other heavy metals, was a major source of dioxin, impossible to recycle and produced by an industry that couldn’t care less about its environmental consequences. We were told that PVC was banned from use in many European countries. While sitting in a conference room in one of the largest PCV manufacturing plants in Germany, I heard quite a different story. I learned that PVC, contrary to being a banned material, was in fact being produced and used in every European country and that it had never been banned for use in building materials. I learned that all forms of PVC were being recycled in Europe, in recycling facilities mandated by law and paid for by PVC manufacturers— something called Extended Producer Responsibility—making PVC by far one of the greenest building materials available in Europe from a cradle to grave perspective.

REAL “GREEN” The principle behind EPR was formulated in 1991 by Swedish professor Thomas Lindhqvist as: “An environmental protection strategy to reach an environmental objective of a decreased total environmental impact from a product, by making the manufacturer of the product responsible for the entire life-cycle of the product and espe-

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

cially for the take-back, recycling and final disposal of the product. The (EPR) is implemented through administrative, economic and informative instruments. The composition of these instruments determines the precise form of the (EPR).” Ever y building product made today lays claim to being “green” in some way because every product can prove at least one of the many single attribute metrics (like recycled content, rapid renewability, location of manufacture, forest certification, VOC content, etc.) currently used to defi ne a “green” material. In the U.S., the endless debate about these types of product characteristics gets us no closer to what really matters. What really matters when it comes to how green a product may or may not be is what happens to that product during its development, at the end of its life and who shoulders the environmental burden and costs. A highly energy-efficient PVC window that ends up in the landfill is an unsustainable end to that product. The manufacturer of the window paid nothing for the environmental consequence of that window during its production and disposal and had no incentive to improve upon the product to make it easier and more economical to produce and dispose of in an environmentally friendly manner. Instead, U.S. citizens, governments and taxpayers are bearing the environmental burden. EPR changes that and has been shown in every case to have a dramatic, environmentally positive impact on products from cradle to grave.

EPR IN THE U.S. Unlike European and Asian countries, the United States has not adopted a national EPR policy. Indeed, the U.S. defi nition of EPR is very different. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency cooperated in the development of a 1997 study titled “Extended Product Responsibility: A New Principle For Product-Oriented Pollution Prevention” which explains that the “P” has been changed to “Product” in order to more accurately reflect the reality of EPR as a “shared responsibility” as opposed to that of the producer alone. This important distinction reflects the deep-rooted free market ideology in the U.S. Unfortunately, “shared responsibility” in practice does not have much efficacy, which is summed up nicely in a 2006 report by McKerlie Knight, and Thorpe which states that the concept of shared responsibility: “… suggests that all parties with a role in designing, producing, selling or using a product are responsible for minimizing the environmental impact of the product over its life. In practice, this ‘shared responsibility’ extends beyond the producers and users of a product to include local governments and general taxpayers who incur the expense of managing products at their end-oflife as part of the residential waste stream. This shared approach does not clearly designate responsibility to any one party, diluting the impetus to advance waste prevention.” Without strong incentives or regulatory requirements, there have been few adopters of EPR in the United States, even with its watered down definition. The examples cited in the EPA study, and others that have come out since, are limited to small-scale efforts, many of them now discontinued. Further impediments to the national adoption of EPR in the U.S. include the following, from a report titled “Extended Producer Responsibility: A Materials Policy for the 21st Century” by INFORM Inc.: • Far less pressure on landfill space in the U.S. than in Europe or Japan.

• Strong U.S. traditions of individualism and unfettered capitalism limit the types of government intervention that are acceptable politically. • Potential liability in implementing take-back programs, particularly for products with hazardous or toxic components.

EUROPE AND ASIA LEAD THE WAY In sharp contrast to the U.S. stance on EPR, most European countries wholeheartedly embrace the idea that producers should take on the burden of their products’ environmental impact. EPR has been something that governments in Europe and Asia have been requiring of product manufacturers for more than 20 years. Laws have been passed in Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands and Japan mandating extended producer responsibility for packaging, automobiles, automobile tires, electronics and construction materials with varying degrees of implementation and success. The first implemented EPR program in Europe was a 1991 take-back law in Germany called Ordinance on Avoidance of Packaging Waste. This ordinance gave consumers the right to return product packaging where purchased and also required retailers to accept the packaging free of charge. The ordinance spawned the creation of third party entities that contracted with retailers for collecting the packaging waste and disposing of it in an environmentally responsible manner. Producers, to reduce disposal fees, developed lighter, more environmentally-friendly packaging. Japan introduced the Home Appliance Recycling Law in 1998 which requires retailers to take back appliances from consumers for a small fee. The law has resulted in unexpected breakthroughs in Japanese electric and electronics Industries in the way that products are designed and manufactured. The law has forced producers to design appliances with materials that are easier to dispose of and easier to disassemble. Instead of going to landfills, appliances in Japan are carefully dismantled and constit-

Without strong incentives or regulatory requirements, there have been few adopters of EPR in the United States, even with its watered down definition. uent components and materials disposed of in the most environmentally beneficial way possible. The Netherlands became the fi rst European country to enact EPR take-back legislation for electronic equipment and appliances. The law requires retailers to take products back, free of charge, and recycle them. Large household appliances must meet an 80 percent recovery rate and a 75 percent recycling rate standard (by weight). Computer equipment must meet a 75 percent recovery rate and 65 percent recycling or reuse rate standard. Korea established an EPR take-back requirement in 2003 for tires, lubricants, fluorescent lights, metal cans, glass and PET bottles and 15 types of electrical and electronic equipment. Recycling rates for these products have skyrocketed since the law went into effect. Producers collected and recycled only about 30,000 computers in 2002 but the number exceeded 250,000 in 2003 after enactment of the EPR law. It is still too early to prove a definitive link between the enactment of the law and product design changes, but producers report that changes are being made to reduce products’ environmental impacts as a result of the take-back requirement.

to rapid, meaningful and measureable environmental improvement of products throughout their life-cycle. We can expect to see more and more building materials included on EPR legislation lists as these programs continue to grow and flourish. W&C Chris Dixon is a registered architect, Certified Construction Specifier, and LEED AP. He serves on GBI’s Green Globes Technical Committee and is a former USGBC Materials and Resources Technical Advisory Group member. If you read this article, please circle number 368.

CONCLUSION As EPR laws take hold, a wealth of evidence is being provided that shows the enormous impact such laws have on the environmental performance of products from cradle to grave. Although the U.S. has not adopted a national EPR policy, American companies that do business abroad are being forced to adopt EPR principles in order to sell products overseas, which automatically spills over to their operations in the U.S. EPR has been proven as an excellent pathway Please Circle #118 On Reader Action Card June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

69

industry

VOICES BY WILLIAM COURTNEY

framing was loaded with opportunity and strong growth for years to come. Indeed, our future was limited only by our imagination.

TIMES CHANGE

The Clock Is

Ticking Putting your head in the sand has never been a successful strategy for man or beast. As a person who is responsible for both the daily operation and strategic direction of a large steel framing manufacturing business, I have great concerns regarding the future of our industry. There are a number of issues on the horizon that not only impact my company but all steel framing manufacturers, suppliers and contractors in the value chain. When my career in the steel framing business started in the ’80s, the industry was in fantastic shape and growth was inevitable. We were in a bull market. Flat rolled steel costs were very stable and would continue that way for another decade.

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| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

Aided by our low cost and price stability, steel framing was beginning to dominate the commercial market for curtainwall and drywall framing. Load bearing construction was at its beginning and looked like there was a tremendous opportunity. To top it off, all the stakeholders—steel mills, processors, steel framing manufacturers, distributors and end users—believed that we could capture a significant portion of the U.S. residential wood framing market. The future for steel

Now move forward to 2011. Twenty-five years later, our hopes for expanding into the residential market have waned. The market for load bearing applications suffers from a lack of promotion and momentum. Our core position in the commercial sector has fallen in comparison to the wood and masonry markets. How many times in the past five years have you driven by a threestory hotel or small strip mall that is being framed with wood studs? This was a rare sight two decades ago and this increasing occurrence should be a wake up call to everyone who makes a living from steel framing. Unfortunately, our industry does not maintain statistics regarding steel’s market share so we have to rely on anecdotal and drive-by observations. Steel framing has become a less attractive system in the marketplace due to factors both in and out of our control. Steel coil prices have become more expensive relative to its price point in the 1980s and ’90s. Steel has had a similar track record as many commodities over the past decade —increasingly big swings in price and an overall increase in price. We have to face the fact that raw steel costs will continue to be twice as high what they’ve been in the past. Our industr y has to innovate and develop products that reduce t h e ove r a l l c o s t of d e l iv e r i n g structural and nonstructural steel framed buildings to the market despite the challenge of increased raw material costs. If we do not develop an action plan to combat these issues, our industry will suffer the consequences.

INDUSTRY REQUIREMENTS We face a challenge related to the thermal conductivity of steel framing. Several years ago, the Department of Energy initiated its 30/30

Vision to improve the efficiency of commercial and residential buildings by 30 percent over the 2004 to 2006 energy codes and standards by 2012. Furthermore, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 expedited the enforcement of the IECC by requiring states that received stimulus funding to adopt the most recently published energy standards. These new requirements dramatically increased the material and installation costs for exterior steel framing systems and made some systems, like stucco and brick, difficult to construct. This will force us to surrender even more of our commercial market to competing systems. Whether you make your living producing steel, roll forming, distributing or installing, markets that are constricting are not healthy ones. So the question is, “What can we do about it?” For our company, ClarkDietrich, the solution was to get proactive. We have become part of a new organization, the Steel Framing Industry Association. The SFIA is a vertically integrated organization focusing on the expansion of the markets for steel framing. This organization is designed to address the needs of everyone throughout the value chain—steel mill, steel processor, steel stud manufacturer, steel connector manufacturer, distributor and the end user/ contractor. We need to start advocating our position with the code bodies and government agencies to ensure that steel is not displaced by other competing systems through simple ignorance. We are working on compliance issues throughout all framing products and accessories to limit liability and increase accountability to our end users. We will also educate and work to find solutions to issues inherent to our industry group. Finally, we want to make sure we are doing our part collaborating with the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry, American Iron and Steel Institute and particularly with the Steel Framing Alliance to further

We cannot afford to continue to rely on others to take care of these issues for us and must be active in rallying the industry ... their goals of removing barriers and promoting the advantages of coldformed steel framing. This includes contributing to the research and other activities necessary to drive our industry forward. We cannot afford to continue to rely on others to take care of these issues for us and must be active in rallying the industry to not only support but expand ongoing efforts. The wood and masonry associations are well-funded and organized to

claim more of our market. It is not too late but the clock is ticking. Help be part of the solution by joining the efforts of the SFIA. W&C William Courtney is president of ClarkDietrich. He also serves as the interim president for the SFIA. For more information about SFIA, write to [email protected]. If you read this article, please circle number 369.

Please Circle #371 On Reader Action Card June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

71

classified To place a classified ad in Walls & Ceilings, Contact Paula at 727-550-3903 • 888-887-2852 • Fax: 336-998-6741 • Email: [email protected]

MARKETPLACE

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ADVERTISERS’

This index is provided as an additional service. The publisher does not assume any liability for errors or omissions. Advertisers appearing in bold are new advertisers.

index

ADVERTISER

RAC#

PG#

WEB ADDRESS

PHONE

Adapa, Inc.

209

32

www.adapausa.com

(800) 255-2302

Al’s Taping Tools & Spray Equipment

366

72

www.drywalltools.com

(800) 458-7895

Allied Building Products

370

74

www.alliedbuilding.com

(800) 4-ALLIED

Armstrong World Industries

103, 270

5, 64

www.armstrong.com/contractorsonly

(877) ARMSTRONG

CertainTeed Ceilings

271, 308

13, 65

www.certainteed.com

(800) 233-8990

CertainTeed Gypsum

153, 272

38, 39

www.certainteed.com

(800) 233-8990

154

IBC

www.clarkdietrich.com

(800) 543-7140

210, 274

40, 41

www.cranecomposites.com

(800) 435-0080

Custom Stud, Inc.

187

29

www.customstud.com

(952) 985-7000

Demand Products

359

22

www.demandproducts.com

(800) 325-7540

Energex Wall Systems

275, 326

46, 47

www.energexwallsystems.com

(888) 343-7462

Flex-Ability Concepts

129, 371

27, 71

www.flexabilityconcepts.com

(866) 443-3539

Hunter Douglas Contract

202, 276

42, 43

www.hunterdouglascontract.com

(800) 727-8953

323

19

www.hyflexcorp.com

(866) 849-6246

106, 277

BC, 66

www.lafarge-na.com

(800) 237-5505

Larsen Products Corp.

263

9

www.larsenproducts.com

(301) 776-4595

Metal-Lite

240

27

www.metal-lite.net

(866) 313-3584

www.nationalgypsum.com

(800) NATIONAL

www.nilesbldg.com

(800) 323-3329

www.oncenter.com/WallsAndCeilings

(866) 627-6246

www.outsourcesestimator.com

(804) 684-5613

www.parexusa.com

(714) 738-2266

ClarkDietrich Building Systems Crane Composites, Inc.

Hy-Flex Corp. Lafarge North America/Gypsum

National Gypsum Niles Building Products On Center Software

IFC, 62 264

11

244, 265, 279, 280

3,44,45,63,72

Outsource Estimating Parex USA, Inc.

72 181, 281

52, 53

PDquipment

355

72

www.pdquipment.com

(888) 383-7274

Perfect Wall Inc.

240

27

www.perfectwall.net

(866) 313-3584

Peters & Sons

262

7

www.ldpeters.com

(800) 221-9933

Phillips Manufacturing

266, 282

48, 49

www.phillipsmfg.com

(800) 822-5055

The Quikrete Companies

268, 288

36, 37

www.quikrete.com

(800) 282-5828

SPEC MIX, Inc.

283, 342

50, 51

www.specmix.com

(888) SPECMIX

Specialized Building Products

260, 284

56, 57

www.specializedbuildingproducts.com

(714) 279-1042

Stanley Black & Decker

267, 287

34, 35

www.stanleytools.com/carbide

(800) 262-2161

Stockton Products

251, 285

58, 59

www.stocktonproducts.com

(877) 862-5866

Strait-Flex International

261, 289

60, 61

www.straitflex.com

(888) 747-0220

Structus Building Technologies

112

10

www.hydrotrimcorner.com

(888) 662-6281

Stud Chopper Tools, LLC

259

7

www.studchopper.com

(985) 641-2753

Super Stud Building Products, Inc.

120, 286

54, 55

www.edgesteelframing.com

(800) 477-7883

Trim-Tex, Inc.

118, 269

23, 69

www.trim-tex.com

(800) 874-2333

June 2011 | www.wconline.com |

73

Sponsored by Allied Building Products Corporation

CONTRACTOR PROFILE

F.L. CRANE & SONS INC. N

been with the company since the late 1960s. His journey

other rough terrain material handlers. It’s one of

began as a laborer, then quickly climbed to become an

the oldest wall and ceiling contractors in the country,

estimator, foreman and then moved to Texas from the

a company rooted in the Deep South. F.L. Crane &

company’s Mississippi location (where F.L. Crane’s head-

Sons Inc.—which began as a plastering contractor—has

quarters is based).

o, it’s not a rental yard that carries cranes and

expanded and specializes in acoustical ceilings, drywall,

The Texas division currently employs 80 people (at

EIFS, exterior panel systems, fireproofing, spray foam

its height, up to 300 employed). This division will travel

insulation, lath and plaster, and painting.

anywhere its customers need them, as far as the North-

The company was started by F. L. Crane in 1947. The company, based out of Fulton, Miss., began with a crew

east, which the division is headed to when it goes to New Hampshire this month.

of less than 10 people. Over the years, Crane’s sons Jim-

“We do a little bit of government work but mostly

mie and Johnny were brought into the business. In 1963,

we deal with private money,” says Burleson. “About

the business was incorporated.

99.9 percent of the work is commercial. We do very

By 1985, the small corporation had opened two

little residential.”

other locations, one in Hutto, Texas and the other in

As a veteran of this industry, Burleson has seen all fac-

Angie, La. At that time, approximately 150 people were

ets of challenging jobs. What is his philosophy in dealing

employed. Then in the early 1990s, the Casino Construc-

with difficult situations?

tion division began. Based on the success of these smaller

“We try to sit down and talk things through. We make

offices, as well as the Fulton division and the modern

sure we get all questions answered and work it out. It’s

technology of being able to estimate jobs with a comput-

got to be a team effort,” he says.

er rather than by hand, additional offices were opened

Burleson says all last year and the beginning of this

in Middleton, Tenn.; Southaven/Jackson/Ocean Springs/

year have been very slow in regards to projects. Admit-

Cleveland, Miss.; Tuscaloosa and Huntsville, Ala.; and

tedly, it’s been a struggle, he says. But, “we are seeing

Pensacola, Fla.

private money increase so I believe things will be turning

The corporation now consists of 12 branch offices and

around here real soon.”

its newest additions FLC Imports and FLC Industrial

As a member and past president of the South Cen-

Services. The company has approximately 500 people

tral Wall, Ceiling & Plaster Association (formerly the

currently employed.

Texas Lathing & Plastering Contractors Association),

“Our philosophy is that with the proper management,

Burleson is hoping to make this year’s conference. F.L.

any new business opened will be an asset to our employ-

Crane & Sons has a long-lasting relationship with Allied

ees, the surrounding community and us,” says Johnny

Building Products.

Crane. Chip Crane makes the company third generation.

“I have been doing business with Allied Building Products for a long time,” Burleson says. “They continue to

WHAT ABOUT BOB?

have great service and fair prices. They take care of us.”

Walls & Ceilings recently spoke with Bob Burleson, president of F.L. Crane’s Texas Division. Burleson has

74

| Walls & Ceilings | June 2011

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