October 2008 Product Review

Kichler’s 15765AZT textured architectural bronze six groove LED mini deck light is a versatile little 1.9-Watt LED-based accent lighting system. The lights are housed in die-cast aluminum in multiple finishes and can illuminate decks, steps and landscapes. The cable connector is included as an added bonus.

For more information, click here.

Made from an Idaho sustainable forge using recycled materials, the latest Sun Valley Bronze hardware pieces come handcrafted and hand-finished in bronze. The Textures Collection, shown here, is a great complement to modern architecture. Kitchen, bathroom and cabinet hardware pieces are also available.

For more information, click here.

The Reclaimed From Nature line by Greyne Custom Wood Co. uses reclaimed or other environmentally friendly products for a distinct look. The Reclaimed floor boards join the company’s scrape-textured hardwood line, Inspired by Tradition, and customizable Originals Inspired by You lines.

For more information, click here.

Available in wheat, chestnut, java, as well as brindle, a beautiful new color blending natural and caramelized bamboo strands, Teragren’s Synergy Strand bamboo panels are perfect for kitchen and bathroom cabinetry. The panels are made by fusing bamboo strands with an eco-friendly adhesive to make them harder than oak.

For more information, click here.

The latest improvements to Ply Gem subsidiary Great Lakes Window’s UniFrame includes the addition of a new folding, locking, rigid nail fin. The windows feature the company’s patented glass and insulation system, resulting in a U-Factor as low as .18, which easily beats Energy Star requirements.

For more information, click here.

PV Powered’s new photovoltaic line is designed to provide maximum energy harvest for smaller PV installations. Models PVP1100, PVP2000 and PVP3000 are available with or without a built-in, multi-function display. They also include wired or wireless data monitoring, which provides access to current and historical system performance data through a customized online interface.

For more information, click here.

We’ve heard of low-VOC paints before. Mythic Paint, according to the manufacturer, is the first and only high-performance paint that has zero VOCs, zero toxins and is non-carcinogenic. The low-odor line has 1,232 colors in both interior and exterior finishes; the company can also color match competitor’s paints.

For more information, click here.

The H-300 drinking water system from Everpure reduces lead to below the Federal Action Level of 15 ppb and effectively adsorbs VOCs and other nasties. The ½-micron filtration provides NSF-certified aesthetic chlorine/chloramine reduction and removes or reduces off-tastes and odors. New KDF media controls bacteria and inhibits lime scale build-up.

For more information, click here.

Remodelers can create a squeak-free floor while taking it easy on the environment. iLevel’s Subfloor Adhesive fills the gaps and creates a strong bond between floor panels, joists and other framing components — even if the joists are wet or frozen. The formula’s low VOC count gives you piece of mind while making your homes tighter.

For more information, click here.

Here comes another bamboo product to hit the market. Mr. Bamboo’s latest SimplyGreen Bamboo Cabinets combine clean European-inspired lines with a warm look and low or no VOC content. The line features two styles, the milano and cascata, in two bamboo colors. Glass insert options are available.

For more information, click here.

The Sydney Low Profile by Caroma is ideal for installations that require a shorter toilet due to space restrictions, such as under a counter or where a grab bar is located above the tank. This high efficiency toilet uses 1.6 or .8 gallons per flush (full/half flush). Two configurations of the model have already been WaterSense-approved.

For more information, click here.

Danze’s new low-flow showerheads use only 1 1/2 gallons per minute regardless of low or high water pressure. The showerheads are available in five popular decorative designs. Shown is the lamp sunflower showerhead, which features 36 jets and is available in chrome and brushed nickel finishes.

For more information, click here.

First flooring, then cabinets. Now bamboo has hit the sink. Totally Bamboo’s solid bamboo sink is 17 inches wide and 6 inches tall; has a 1 3/8 inch thick wall; and has a recessed drain opening. The vessel sinks come in a variety of shapes and size. It is sealed in waterproof polyurethane and has a 10-year guarantee.

For more information, click here.

Rheem Solaraide systems use a specially developed, freeze-proof heat transfer fluid to absorb and deliver heat energy even on cold and overcast days for solar water heating systems. The fluid also circulates in a “closed-loop” environment, which further protects against freezing. It is made for Rheem by its Australian subsidiary Solahart.

For more information, click here.

Performance Brick is an environmentally friendly panelized product for the façade and is made of recycled gypsum and reinforced with high-density polymer materials. The moisture-resistant panels interlock with the company’s Fast-Track system to provide up to 3/4-inch airspace behind each panel to allow for air flow and water drainage.

For more information, click here.

If you’re chasing the slate look, try using Belgard’s new Urbana paver line. The line uses a three-piece modular system with an optional large square to add a broader range of shapes and patterns. The pavers are lighter and more efficient to install than their natural counterparts, and a contractor can save plenty on installation costs.

For more information, click here.

The CrossVent from Atlas Roofing Corp. is an eco-friendly polyiso foam insulation board for use over sloped unventilated roof decks. The CrossVent contains vent spacer strips to separate 7/16-inch OSB from the foam insulation to promote air circulation. It combines a nailable surface, insulation and a ventilating airspace all in one panel.

For more information, click here.