Editors' Picks

Feature Story

Shake Test Shows Promise of Wood-Framed Mid-Rises in Earthquake Zones

A team of scientists, including representatives from manufacturer Simpson Strong-Tie and Colorado State University, performed the world's largest earthquake shake table test in Japan last week, creating the equivalent of a 7.5-magnitude earthquake on a seven-story condo tower made up of 23 one- and two-bedroom units. According to a statement, early results showed little damage to the structure, a promising result that has building engineers confident in the possibilities for mid-rise wood-framed structures, which typically are limited to five stories in earthquake-prone areas.

(EBUILD Online)
Entire article

Announcements From Manufacturers

New Green Glue Noiseproofing Clips Provide Soundproofing Solution for New Construction

The Green Glue Company today announced the introduction of its newest product, Green Glue Noiseproofing Clips, a mechanical decoupling noiseproofing solution for new residential and commercial builds. Green Glue Noiseproofing Clips work by mechanically separating two sides of a wall, drastically reducing the transmission of vibrations that cause noise.

Complete details

Anvil Cabinet and Mill Unveils First Fully Automated Cabinetry System

Anvil Cabinet and Mill, a long-time leading provider of custom cabinetry, today announced the launch of Anvil Motion, the world's first fully automated cabinetry system, which brings a new level of convenience, beauty and luxury to kitchens and other living spaces. The creative minds behind Anvil Motion have revolutionized home cabinetry with computer automation that intuitively responds to user activity and needs. Tap your fingers or graze your palm against luxurious construction and the cabinetry comes to life – anticipating your needs with intelligent technology.

Complete details

Fabcon and VAST Enterprises Launch New Composite Thin Brick Wall Panel

Fabcon, one of America's leading manufacturers of fabricated concrete wall panels, has partnered with VAST Enterprises, LLC, a material science research and green building material manufacturer, to launch the first wall panels using composite bricks featuring up to 95 percent post-consumer/post-industrial recycled material. The finished wall panels have a recycled content of up to 85 percent.

Complete details

News and Trends

Energy-Efficient Overhaul

Remodeler Anthony Cerami of Anthony James Construction, in Westfield, N.J., says that meeting Energy Star’s criteria for a remodeling project requires an extensive remodel, but it can be done with the “right project.” He found the right project in this ranch renovation.

(REMODELING Online)

Innovative Products 2009

Every year at this time, JLC editors sort through piles of press releases and swarms of e-mails to round up a batch of building products — tools, materials, fixtures, fasteners — that we think will help you work faster and better. This year, we’re doing something a little different: focusing on products we discovered while walking the floor at JLC Live in Providence, R.I., in March. The sluggish economy notwithstanding, the exhibition hall was full, with manufacturers and suppliers of all stripes seizing the opportunity to reach the JLC audience. Here’s a small sampling of what we found.

(JLC Online)