BERTHOUD, Colo., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Sun Mountain, Inc. announced the launch of a new website, http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.sunmountaindoor.com. The website includes significant new content relating to Sun Mountain's custom high-end wood door, moulding and flooring products. "We are extremely excited about our new website," stated Thad Walton, Vice President of Sales. "It presents the full breadth of our industry leading high-end millwork products via the Internet for the first time in company history." The new site presents Sun Mountain's product offerings in a way which assists users in easily finding the unique product designs they desire. Door designs can be browsed by: * Type, meaning application such as Interior doors, Exterior doors, French doors, Pantry doors, etc., * Style, meaning design style such as Panel doors, Plank doors, Glass doors, Arched doors, etc., or * Architectural Style, meaning doors matching specific architectural motifs such as Contemporary, Craftsman, French Country, etc. Further sorting can be done to view specific top rail or arched top treatments, and specific panel and lite (glass pane) designs. "We believe the presentation of our custom styles and designs in this structured approach will be a great benefit to both the trade (architects, designers and builders) and the homebuyer. Users can quickly and easily find cutting edge custom designs to match their unique vision," stated Mr. Walton. After selecting a product design, the user can further customize the product by selecting options such as wood species, door size, pre-hanging, etc. The new site allows users to "Get an Estimate" at any stage of their exploration by submitting their specific design choices to the company. The company then promptly responds to such quote requests by providing pricing, CAD drawings, etc. in a personalized quote. Founded in 1998, Sun Mountain, Inc. is a privately held manufacturer of custom wood doors, flooring, moulding and millwork products.

The Holmes Inspection Host Introduces the Must-Have Guide for Every Home Renovation NEW YORK, June 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- General contractor Mike Holmes, star of the popular television programs Holmes on Homes and Holmes Inspection (ranked as the #1 and #2 shows on HGTV), is a major force in changing the way U.S. homeowners think about the building industry. (Photo: http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110628/NY27540 ) Now, bestselling author Holmes is sharing with Americans his essential guide for every homeowner: Make It Right: Inside Home Renovation . Whether a homeowner is just considering a renovation or is already in the process, Holmes' Make It Right: Inside Home Renovation walks them through the entire process from start to finish. From finding a reliable contractor to explaining the inner workings of a house, Holmes covers the most popular renovation projects and describes the common pitfalls. Holmes weighs in on the issues that homeowners need to understand, including topics such as the hazards of mold, red flags to watch for when hiring a contractor and how to implement green technology like geothermal heating. Make It Right: Inside Home Renovation is packed full of information, including sidebars, checklists, diagrams and even a full glossary. "Mike's Tips" are located throughout, giving the reader advice straight from the expert's lips. In Make It Right: Inside Home Renovation , Holmes shows readers what to expect from contractors and trades people, and how to keep every renovation running on time and on budget. The book also includes Holmes' recommendations on: * Eight things that should be in your contract * Ten things to remember about your bathroom, kitchen and basement renovations * Mike's bi-annual maintenance check-list * Types of insulation, siding, roofing and countertops Make It Right: Inside Home Renovation is the must-have book for homeowners planning, executing or evaluating their home overhaul. The book retails for $21.95 U.S. (Softcover, Time Home Entertainment Inc.) and is available online and at bookstores nationwide.

Dow Corning Products and Professional Services Enable Building Designers to Create World Class Sustainable Architecture MIDLAND, Mich., June 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- To support the growing demand of designing and constructing innovative, high-performance and sustainable structures, Dow Corning is strengthening its suite of construction solutions and services for building professionals. Dow Corning silicon-based sealants, coatings, water repellents and concrete admixtures are designed to protect, strengthen, and preserve building materials in new construction and renovation projects. For example, silicone construction silicone sealants have a life expectancy that is typically three times longer than organic sealants used in the same applications. They waterproof, remain flexible and resist the effects of ultraviolet (UV) light and common temperature extremes. Use of Dow Corning silicone products can contribute to building performance improvements such as: * sealants for structural glazing and weatherproofing applications to increase energy performance and extend building life; * water repellents to help reduce damage to materials from water penetration, minimizing the needed for structural repairs; * concrete admixtures used for pretreatment of substrates help to reduce thermal conductivity and evaporation of water in materials, two leading causes of structural heat loss. In addition, when used in combination with other construction materials, use of Dow Corning silicones can contribute to earning LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) credits as administered by the U.S. Green Building Council. Dow Corning also provides industry professionals with product information, technical expertise, design tools and other resources to create total building system solutions, based on decades of construction industry expertise, technical service, support resources, and customized construction services. Dow Corning offers: * information regarding using silicone to achieve LEED credits; * online construction calculators for project management and products usage; * downloadable product selection guides, data sheets, application tutorials/seminars and technology developments; * blueprint evaluations to ensure proposed applications meet Dow Corning joint standards for warrantable performance; * videos demonstrating how silicone technology contributes to sustainable buildings; and, * online order entry and sample requests. Working with leading architects and contractors, Dow Corning has contributed to innovative designs such as the Solano County Government Center in Fairfield, California. Solano County's first LEED-certified building, the building incorporates sustainable design/build elements, including extensive use of solar electricity and an award-winning co-generation plant. Dow Corning® brand silicone sealants complement its energy-efficient technologies with contributions to its weatherproofing and life-cycle.

BuilderMT’s Professional Services Effort Is Needed Because BuilderMT Continues To Rapidly Add So Many New Capabilities LAKEWOOD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BuilderMT, North America’s best-selling construction workflow software solution provider, announced today that its Professional Services team is in the midst of a concerted effort to reach into its user base to alert them to new features and system capabilities of BuilderMT’s Workflow Management Suite (WMS). The Professional Services efforts include presentations and webinars that review the many new features and enhancements to WMS, followed by a no-cost system review by BuilderMT’s consultants to analyze the builder’s setup and workflow within their estimating, operations, accounting, and product database. Many builders have suffered staff reductions in the downturn, so it’s imperative that management teams be aware of WMS’ numerous time-saving processes. These now include web-based bidding, a Trade Portal, true Mobile Scheduling, improved payment processing, digital takeoffs within estimating, and stronger integration with Sales Simplicity Software, among many other enhancements. The Professional Services outreach comes during a period of remarkable growth for BuilderMT, as it recently announced that it has added 3,000 housing starts across multiple builders in the U.S. and Canada (including a top-five volume builder from Canada), and nearly as many starts in Australia.

Easy to use Sprinkler Times app uses localized scientific data to maintain healthy landscapes, encourage conservation and save homeowners hundreds of dollars a year in needless overwatering FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Summer 2011 is finally here, and Garden Apps, creators of landscaping and irrigation focused mobile applications and Web services, today unveiled the Sprinkler Times™ app, helping people across the United States find the correct number of minutes to set their sprinkler timers for maintaining healthy gardens all year round. Available for iPhones, iPads, Android smartphones and tablets, as well as on the Web, Sprinkler Times is the first mobile app built using Garden Apps’ 3Green™ approach to personal technology: save plants (green in the yard), save the environment (green in philosophy), and save money (green in the bank). Sprinkler Times easily and instantly calculates the correct settings for automated sprinkler systems so that landscapes get the optimal amount of water for specific regions and plant types all year long. Using regionally-based, historical climate information together with industry-regulated soil and plant data, the easy to use Sprinkler Times app determines the best possible settings required for automated sprinkler systems for healthy lawns and landscapes all year round. Garden Apps has been using this data successfully for decades to eliminate overwatering, leading to healthier landscapes and household savings of hundreds of dollars annually. Now the company delivers Sprinkler Times for year-round water optimization: Summer time: Sprinkler Times ensures that people aren’t underwatering their yards during the two hottest months of year, July and August. Spring and fall: These two seasons account for most of the water wasted in landscaping and gardening. Often misled by healthy looking plants, people are unaware they are overwatering their plants by hundreds of gallons a year. Proper settings ensure healthy plants and potential savings of hundreds of dollars. Winter: One of the trickiest seasons for watering plants in some regions, the Sprinkler Times apps uses historical data to determine whether watering plants, even a couple minutes per week, makes sense. Sprinkler Times takes the guesswork and complexity out of watering, creating a perfect watering regimen every time. All a person needs to know to use the Sprinkler Times app is the zip code of the landscaping, type of plants being watered, type of sprinklers used to water, type of soil and whether the plants are in the sun or shade. Sprinkler Times and its data bank and irrigation algorithms do the rest. Sprinkler Times is available for free in the iTunes App Store and Android Market. To unlock all features, people can upgrade Sprinkler Times via an in-app purchase of $5.99. The online version of Sprinkler Times costs $5.99 and is available at www.sprinklertimes.com.

Customize, Visualize and Experience Blu Homes in Vivid 3D with "The Configurator" LOS ANGELES, June 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- What if you could walk through your dream home before the foundation was ever poured? Compare the way cabinet finish, site orientation, and siding choices impact the way it feels to live in a space? Experience light as it moves through a room? With "The Configurator," Blu Homes' online 3D customization tool, all this will be possible for the first time to homebuyers. Blu Homes (www.bluhomes.com), the largest green prefab homebuilder in the U.S., is offering previews of "The Configurator" at Dwell on Design (www.dwellondesign.com) in Los Angeles, June 24-26. "The Configurator" will officially launch later this summer. To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/bluhomes/40399/ (Photo: http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110624/MM25047) Blu designs and builds eco-friendly prefabricated homes with the same state-of-the-art 3D modeling technology used by Boeing, Virgin Galactic, and Ford Motors. With "The Configurator," Blu will extend the same design capabilities to potential homebuyers, empowering them to personalize and experience their future Blu Home in a way never before seen in the homebuilding industry. Within "The Configurator," customers will be able to choose from a variety of Blu home models and floorplans, and then personalize their home by choosing from thousands of combinations provided by Blu – from appliances and colors to window placement and siding. Each choice will render in real-time and in a stunning, realistic 3D environment. Blu will preview "The Configurator" at booths 841 and 843 at Dwell on Design, allowing visitors to make changes to a sample home, and to virtually walk around the home they have personalized. Blu's digital tooling experts will be on hand to guide visitors through this state-of-the-art technology, and other Blu representatives will answer any and all questions about Blu and its unique building process. Blu Homes has offices outside of Boston, Mass. and in San Francisco, and has recently expanded its presence in Southern California, with representatives in L.A. and upcoming events in the L.A. area as well as in San Diego, Santa Barbara, and San Louis Obispo. Over 60 of Blu Homes' designs have been built to date across the U.S. The company has six home designs to choose from, including Michelle Kaufmann's iconic Glidehouse and Breezehouse. Thanks to proprietary steel framing and building folding technology, Blu's designs can be shipped conveniently and efficiently across North America. Click here to watch a video of a Blu home unfolding. Blu recently raised $12.5 million dollars in additional capital from private investors, bringing total investment in the company to $25 million since 2007.

DHL Global Forwarding Miami Facility Meets Commercial Interiors Green Top Standards MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--DHL, the world’s leading logistics company, announces that their Miami DHL Global Forwarding building, owned by DCT Industrial (NYSE: DCT), a leading industrial real estate company, has received LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Commercial Interiors Gold certification. Located in the City of Doral, in Miami-Dade County, this is the first DHL commercial LEED Gold certified building in the United States. The internationally recognized green building certification validates that the structure was designed and built using environmentally friendly features aimed at: improving performance in energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, stewardship of resources, and sensitivity to their impacts. The building has received certification in the Gold category based on the U.S. Green Building Council’s Commercial Interiors v2009 point rating system. The building scored especially high in the area of energy conservation; its lighting systems are 46 percent more efficient and contain reduced levels of mercury; over 95 percent of the building was equipped with occupancy sensors; and only Energy Star equipment and appliances were installed. In the area of water conservation, indoor water consumption was reduced by 32 percent with low-flow fixtures. The indoor environmental quality has been protected with the use of low emitting adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings, carpet systems and composite woods throughout the structure. Additionally, all the new furniture is Greenguard certified which further protects occupants from indoor contaminants, and an Integrated Pest Management program has been implemented to reduce the amount of chemicals needed to treat pests. The company has implemented several sustainable features on the outside as well, including landscaping with native drought tolerant plants, bicycle storage and a changing room facility for employees using alternative means of transportation. This certification is in-line with the company’s GoGreen climate protection program, aimed at improving its CO2 efficiency across all of its operations, including subcontracted transportation services, by 30 percent by 2020. For DHL, the Miami building is the first building to receive LEED Gold certification in the United States. In May 2011, the company relocated its Global Forwarding and Express Nashville operations to a LEED certified facility and it is currently seeking certification for its Seattle facility, adding to a total of three DHL LEED certified buildings in 2011.

Anaheim, CA – June 21, 2011 – Parex USA, Inc. the parent company of leading building material brands; Parex, LaHabra , El Rey Stucco, Teifs, and Merkrete today announced the addition of Karine Galla and Heidi Larsen to the marketing team. Galla and Larsen will each take the on position of Product Manager, focusing on the two main elements of Parex USA’s Façade division, Stucco Solutions and EIFS respectively. Karine, an eleven year veteran of Parex USA, has been promoted to the position of Product Manager. She previously worked as a Project Manager at the Riverside plant and most recently as the Manager of the Customer Service department. Her intimate knowledge of the products, infrastructure and customers of the company make her a valuable asset to the Marketing Department. Heidi has extensive experience in the construction products industry. Prior to joining Parex USA, Inc., she served as the Marketing and Architectural Sales Manager for a leading supplier of cementitious floor underlayments and acoustical control products. There she became well versed in developing architectural specifications, data sheets and submittal packages. She is also very knowledgeable about the building industry and will bring a fresh new perspective to the team. “The addition of Karine Galla and Heidi Larsen, to our marketing team provides us with a unique bank of expertise covering a broad spectrum of the building materials industry,” said Jamie Makuuchi, Director Marketing and West Coast Sales Manager. “I am confident that their impact on our marketing team will help lead to future successes.” About Parex USA, Inc. Parex USA, Inc. Parex USA, Inc., a California Corporation, is a subsidiary of the ParexGroup, a division of Materis, S.A., a French Corporation. The ParexGroup is one of the world's leading manufacturers of specialty chemicals and ready-to-use mortars for the construction industry. With over 45 manufacturing sites in 18 countries the ParexGroup employs more than 2,700 industry professionals who are the corner stone of this thriving global organization. For more information regarding Parex USA, Inc. visit www.parexusa.com.

Company Seeking Distributors for LED-Powered Flood Light Floor Mat SAN JACINTO, Calif., June 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- ILLUMINUP™, developer and manufacturer of LED-powered floor mats, announces the immediate availability of the Universal Multi-Purpose Lite Mat. The versatile mat provides the ideal solution for a variety of uses, from a work light for do-it-yourself mechanics and car show enthusiasts, to patio lighting and an outdoor welcome mat. ncorporating ILLUMNIUP's proprietary, ultra-efficient "SunStruck" LED technology, the mat is constructed from 100% recyclable polypropylene. Measuring 36.5" x 15.75" with 2.5" beveled edges all around, the mat's unique dovetail design holds the 96 LEDs in place. MSRP for the mat is $199.95, and can be ordered online at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.illuminup.com/Products/Automotive-Products/Universal-Lite-Mat. The company is establishing a nationwide distributor network. Qualified individuals are invited to visit http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.illuminup.com/Become-A-Distributor for details. About ILLUMINUP™ ILLUMINUP™ is the developer and manufacturer of LED-powered floor mats. Incorporating our proprietary, ultra-efficient "SunStruck" LED technology. ILLUMINUP mats deliver a light dispersion profile that illuminates the entire surface simultaneously. Headquartered in San Jacinto, Calif., distributor opportunities are available now.

The New Online Source for Construction News FORT ATKINSON, Wis., June 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- In this changing economy, construction professionals need a trusted, informed source for news that impacts their businesses. Enter Construction News Tracker , a new seven-minute video newscast program that premiered June 16 on ForConstructionPros.com . Unveiled as the industry's only regularly scheduled newscast program, Construction News Tracker features developing and breaking news, products, information, and industry analysis specifically for construction professionals. The program is hosted every other week by construction correspondent Roger Mann. A former television anchor and news producer, Mann has served as the chief correspondent for Cygnus Business Media's Building and Construction Group since 2006. In its inaugural newscast, Construction News Tracker featured news and analysis of federal and state transportation budgets, construction jobs creation, a report urging road repairs rather than new construction as a cost-savings measure, and federal fuel economy and environmental impact disclosure rules that are increasing the price of new vehicles. The program's feature segments covered the mid-year construction forecast from Associated Builders and Contractors and a story about Ditch Witch from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) as part of its IMAKEAMERICA.COM series. The newscasts are archived on ForConstructionPros.com. Hosted on the web portal ForConstructionPros.com, Construction News Tracker is brought to the industry by Caterpillar, manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and a wide offering of related services. Construction professionals can follow construction news via Twitter (twitter.com/4ConstructnPros) and Facebook (facebook.com/ForConstructionPros). Cygnus Building and Construction Group, a division of Cygnus Business Media, reaches more than 200,000 construction professionals each month through its portal ForConstructionPros.com, pavement trade expos, digital news offerings, and print publications: Equipment Today, Concrete Contractor, Sustainable Construction, Rental, Asphalt Contractor, Construction Distribution, and Pavement. Cygnus Business Media reaches millions of professionals annually. As one of America's top business-to-business media companies, Cygnus is leading the way in providing targeted content to top decision-makers and organizations. The company's corporate initiatives and organizational architecture are built with one goal: to fully engage audiences in building and construction, public safety and security, aviation, agriculture, transportation, printing, accounting, vending, and other markets.

TACOMA, Wash., June 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Milgard Windows & Doors introduces Fiberglass ADA French Doors, providing a solution to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliancy and consistency throughout a project. Milgard is known for their popular door models such as the WoodClad™ and Ultra™ Series In-swing and Out-swing Doors. This virtually identical door meets ADA requirements with a 32-inch clear opening, 10-inch bottom rail and 1/2-inch sill for universal access. It is sold as a complete pre-hung door system. The ADA Fiberglass Door is available in all fiberglass Essence, WoodClad and Ultra Series exterior colors. This makes it easy to use both standard and ADA doors in the same project and achieve a similar look. This new ADA Door carries the same 10-Year Multi-Family warranty on parts and labor that is standard on Milgard French door systems. Milgard is one of the few window and door manufacturers that provide service rather than using subcontract labor.

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--USG Corporation (NYSE: USG), a leading building products company, announced today the availability of its lightweight SHEETROCK® Brand UltraLight Panels FIRECODE® 30. The lightweight 5/8-inch non-Type X gypsum panels meet current building codes for non-fire rated areas and are up to 30 percent lighter or up to 27 pounds lighter for a four-foot by twelve-foot panel than the competition’s standard Type X panel, making them easier to transport, lift, and install. USG once again leads the industry with the introduction of SHEETROCK® UltraLight Panels FIRECODE® 30 following the successful launch of its innovative SHEETROCK® Brand UltraLight Panels 1/2-inch gypsum panels, which are also 30 percent lighter than the competition and are now available at 1,500 retail and specialty dealers in the United States and Canada. UltraLight Panels FIRECODE® 30 are available at more than 200 specialty dealers in the eastern half of the United States. SHEETROCK® UltraLight Panels FIRECODE® 30 Meet Building Requirements UltraLight Panels FIRECODE® 30 meets International Building Code (IBC) standards for use in non-rated and 30-minute fire-rated partitions. Instead of using Type X wallboard—a key component in many fire-rated partitions—throughout a project even when it is not required on a high percentage of the partitions in the building, architects now have greater flexibility and can specify USG’s UltraLight Panels FIRECODE® 30. In certain types of construction, including Type VB Group R, one-hour rated partitions can be reduced to 30 minutes if fire suppression sprinklers are installed, according to IBC standards (certain requirements vary by area). SHEETROCK® UltraLight Panels were invented at USG’s Corporate Innovation Center, located in Libertyville, Ill. Using proprietary technologies and processes, USG’s scientists created a lightweight panel that is up to 30 percent lighter than the competition’s 5/8-inch Type X, making them easier to transport and install. SHEETROCK® UltraLight Panels FIRECODE® 30 feature a significantly higher strength-to-weight ratio compared to standard, heavier 5/8-inch Type X. These panels also feature comparable strength and impact resistance and can be used in any commercial or residential project where Type X panels are not required, ultimately helping contractors increase productivity compared to using a 5/8-inch Type X panel. The lightweight 30-minute fire rated panels meet ASTM C1396 Specification for Gypsum Board for 5/8-inch non-Type X gypsum wallboard and ASTM E84 Class A Surface Burning Characteristics as defined in IBC Section 803.1. The panels are UL Classified for use in a single layer with steel- and wood-framed 30 minute fire-rated partitions. Specifications for SHEETROCK® UltraLight Panels FIRECODE 30® Boost Productivity, Profit SHEETROCK® UltraLight Panels and SHEETROCK® UltraLight Panels FIRECODE® 30 help reduce fatigue for wallboard installers because of their lighter weight, and easier installation—ultimately helping contractors meet schedule demands. Dealers also benefit from the lighter weight with reduced employee fatigue, and the ability to ship more products per truck, resulting in increased operational efficiency. An environmentally friendly product, UltraLight Panels FIRECODE® 30 are made with up to 95 percent recycled content, offer a reduction in transportation energy, and qualify as a low volatile organic compound (VOC) emitting material. USG’s lightweight panels are also sustainable and were the industry’s and company’s first product to undergo Underwriters Laboratories Inc.’s UL Environment™ Validation. The 1/2-inch lightweight gypsum panels are made with up to 95 percent recycled content, offer up to a 20-percent reduction in transportation energy, conserve raw materials by up to 15 percent, and also qualify as a low VOC emitting material.

COVENTRY, England--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Luxury flooring specialist Amtico International has launched 79 new flooring designs into its Amtico and Spacia collections – the biggest and most radical product launch in the company’s history. Whether you want to create character, capture rustic charm or opt for modern simplicity and minimalistic chic with your flooring, the Amtico and Spacia ranges can provide an inspirational design for any type of interior environment – including offices, hospitals, schools, retail premises, hotels, restaurants and housing. The Amtico collection of 158 sophisticated, aspirational flooring designs inspires architects, designers and specifiers to experiment with exciting new product combinations and new cutting formats. Grouped according to shade or tone, designers can now choose from Wood, Stone and Abstract ranges that include collections such as Golden Woods, Design Woods, Neutral Stones, Warm Stones, Abstract Elements and Abstract Indulgence. With so many options available, Amtico allows complete flexibility to customise the interior space. The Spacia collection of 79 stylish, hard-wearing floorcoverings provides an extensive choice of options, with new, larger formats, and a new range of bold and striking abstract designs to create statement flooring. Spacia also includes a range of wood and stone styles, combining the realism of nature with outstanding high-performance to provide an attractive and practical flooring solution. By experimenting with new pigments, artwork, embossing techniques and design layouts, Amtico International’s dedicated in-house design team is able to stay at the forefront of flooring design. All Amtico and Spacia products come with a 25-year commercial warranty against wear-out, giving specifiers and end-users confidence in the longevity of its appearance.

New LEED Provisions Raise the Bar by Rewarding Increased Performance and Transparency of Building Products and Materials NORTHBROOK, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--UL Environment Inc., a business unit of UL (Underwriters Laboratories), and its affiliates are among the first organizations whose services help building products qualify for the recently released Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Pilot Credit 43, Certified Products. LEED has become synonymous with Green Building over the last decade and is the name of the green building guidelines set forth by the US Green Building Council (USGBC). Projects earn points that contribute to meeting the LEED requirements. Today’s announcement acknowledges that qualified products evaluated by UL Environment can contribute extra innovation points toward LEED certification. The recently released pilot credit, which serves as a “trial run” credit before its formal adoption into the LEED rating system, rewards LEED projects for using products whose life cycles, ingredients, and other environmental attributes are high performing and more transparent. UL Environment’s Sustainable Product Certification, Environmental Claims Validation, and Environmental Product Declarations can now enable manufacturers to meet this requirement. UL’s affiliate program run by Terrachoice in Canada, the EcoLogo program, also qualifies. To achieve the new pilot credit, LEED projects must demonstrate that, based on value, at least 10 percent of non-structural products meet one of the following requirements: * have environmental claims verified by a third party; * are certified to third-party multi-attribute performance standards; or * are accompanied by a life cycle assessment report or a third-party verified Environmental Product Declaration. Among the non-structural product types that qualify under the new pilot credit are gypsum board, doors, insulation, heating and cooling systems, hot water tanks, office furniture and panel systems, sealants, caulking, adhesives, carpet, tile, and other flooring—all of which have a UL Environment or EcoLogo sustainability standard. Several additional product standards, including ceiling tiles and luminaires, are under development and expected to be released later this year. Swinging doors will also be eligible for pilot credit qualification with UL Environment’s recently announced UL ISR 102, which establishes sustainability certification criteria for doors that are meant to swing, hang or glide. UL Environment is poised to build upon UL’s long history of standards development, testing, compliance, and training to help today’s manufacturers clearly communicate product performance and environmental impact. UL Environment can certify to independent standards and regulations, summarize environmental product life cycle data in Environmental Product Declarations, and test a wide range of environmental attributes—from recycled content and energy efficiency to water usage and product emissions. To assist architects, manufacturers and other stakeholders understand the requirements of the new pilot credit, UL University, the education arm of UL, has developed a new online course for LEED project teams. It’s also expected that the free webinar, scheduled for June 28, 2011, will support continuing education requirements for AIA and LEED accredited professionals. Those interested can learn more and register for the course by visiting www.leedproductcredit.com

ORANGE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Landscape architects, designers and contractors who want to add their personal creative vision to commercial and residential landscapes often lack a centralized resource that informs them of new, rare and unusual plant materials. In addition to reliable favorites, they also seek essential information such as availability and appropriateness for their particular geographic region. Village Nurseries, a specialty grower for landscape professionals, recently redesigned its website (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.villagenurseries.com) to provide such a beneficial and vast resource. Features of Village Nurseries’ New Website Revised, updated plant library. An expanded catalogue describes most every plant Village Nurseries grows along with vital data such as climate, hardiness, characteristics, bloom content, height and width. The catalogue is a great tool for professionals who want a single resource for specifying colorful new options or personal favorites that grow and thrive in their region. New introductions are updated regularly. Wholesale experience. Landscape professionals can find: * What’s Growing Today, a sampling of the wide range of materials available this week. * New Introductions, highlighting new varieties of plant materials that Village Nurseries is constantly adding to its inventory. * Availabilities, a private area where subscribers logon to gain access to a full list of plant materials currently available and customize favorite plant lists in a format they can store for future use or share with clients. * A current inventory of proprietary and patented Monrovia varieties and design favorites that are among the most sought-after plant materials in the United States. * A current inventory of exclusive Anthony Tesselaar family of plants specifically selected to be environmentally friendly and easy to care for. * Business tools such as a calculator for determining the number of plants in an area, a USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, credit applications, etc. * Keep In Touch, featuring the latest nursery news while allowing subscribers to follow Village Nurseries on Twitter and Facebook. * Village Nurseries Landscape Contractor Centers. A customer service locator to find your local sales representative.

Leading online distributor of light bulbs and accessories adds full line of Philips energy-efficient lamps designed to replace traditional incandescent lamps and offer energy savings of 28% or more. WORCESTER, Mass., June 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Bulbs.com, one of the largest online distributors of replacement lighting, will now sell a full line of A-Style halogen incandescent light bulbs from Philips. These bulbs are designed to meet the new efficiency standards mandated by the 2007 Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) that takes effect in January 2012, which will effectively end the production of most traditional 100, 75, 60 and 40 watt incandescent bulbs by 2014. The new Philips EcoVantage line of A19 lamps are the same shape and size of the bulbs they replace. They also: * Reduce energy by at least 28% * Last between 1000 and 1200 hours * Are fully dimmable * Will work with existing lighting fixtures * Contain no mercury * Are available in natural white, soft white, and clear finishes n addition to the Philips EcoVantage line, Bulbs.com has other EISA-compliant products including hundreds of Compact Fluorescent light bulbs and over 150 LED products designed to save customers up to 90% in energy costs. About Bulbs.com Bulbs.com, headquartered in Worcester, Mass., is a leading online incandescent, fluorescent and LED lighting supplier. Established in August 1999, Bulbs.com provides lighting products to a growing list of nearly 100,000 commercial customers operating 300,000 locations in the hospitality, retail, property-management, healthcare, manufacturing and municipal sectors.

ECOsurfaces Commercial Flooring recently had the opportunity to donate flooring to a non-profit organization, called charity: water that builds fresh water wells and sanitation projects in developing nations. charity: water has been growing fast, and they're up to over 1,048,309 people receiving access to clean drinking water in 16 countries through 2,321 projects! ECOsurfaces donated 2,500 square feet of ECOstone's River Rock for charity: water's Manhattan office space. We are privileged to have the opportunity to support these efforts and help make a difference in our world. To learn more about charity: water visit www.charitywater.org

DIY experts provide top secrets for avoiding appliance repair disasters HALIFAX, Nova Scotia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--PartSelect.com, the complete online resource for the do-it-yourself (DIY) repair market and official home of the Virtual Repairman, wants to turn every dad into Mr. Fix-It this Father’s Day. Today, the company is revealing the top dos and don’ts of DIY appliance repair to help fathers avoid the most common home-improvement mishaps. If past home-improvement projects have resulted in more power outages and floods than actual solutions, rest assured. The following tips will help dads avoid these faux pas and make the next DIY appliance repair a breeze: DO look into the appliance’s manufacturer warranty, as well as the warranty for your home, before you start to see if the repair in question might still be covered. There is no sense taking on a project that could be done for you at no extra cost. DO conduct background research. Watch relevant how-to videos, know what tools are required and familiarize yourself with the portion of the appliance you will focus on. Also research how to properly handle the parts surrounding the item you’re replacing so as not to cause additional breaks or damage. DON’T forget to disconnect the appliances from utility circuits such as electrical connections and water lines before beginning the repair process. Forgetting this crucial step could lead to damaging and dangerous situations. Appliances must be in a stable position on a level surface before you attempt to work on them. DON’T use a part that is similar to the one you need, or one that you are “pretty sure” is the right fit for your product. Every make and model is different, and attempting to insert the incorrect repair part will more often than not result in appliance disaster. Substandard parts from your neighbor’s garage or plucked at random off a shelf at the hardware store will not give you the results you’re looking for. DON’T use broken or improper tools. Approaching every household appliance with that same pair of pliers is not only ineffective, but it can also cause unnecessary wear to the tool, as well as injuries. All dads’ toolboxes should be equipped with the following tools in a quality brand: multi-bit screwdriver with ratcheting, combination wrench, wire strippers, nut driver, and multimeter. You should also have a selection of at least two to three types of pliers, including needle-nose, slip joint and water pump pliers. DO take photos during each step of the repair process. The best-kept secret to successfully reassemble an appliance is to always have your digital camera on hand. Flipping backwards through the step-by-step photos you took during the repair will serve as your roadmap for piecing the appliance back together. DO know your DIY limits and take proper safety precautions. Safety goggles and other protective apparel should be worn at all times, particularly when dealing with spring loaded mechanisms. Protective gloves should be worn when working around glass items or sharp metal edges, and if you are moving an appliance, protective footwear is a must. It is unsafe to attempt a repair that is beyond your comfort level, so don’t be afraid to call in the experts.

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.researchandmarkets.com/research/f131ba/the_csi_constructi) has announced the addition of John Wiley and Sons Ltd's new book "The CSI Construction Specifications Practice Guide" to their offering. The must-have specifications writing reference and essential study aid for the Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) Exam The CSI Practice Guides are a library of comprehensive references specifically and carefully designed for the construction professional. Each book examines important concepts and best practices integral to a particular aspect of the building process. The CSI Construction Specifications Practice Guide is focused on the roles and responsibilities of the specifications professional in meeting the challenges of the changing world of construction. In this volume, guidelines on topics like writing quality construction specifications and product selection are meshed with best practices for managing project information, working with Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Integrated Project Delivery, and writing sustainable design specifications. Other material covered in this guide includes: * The Construction Specifications Institute's collected best practices for authoring specifications * Specialized guidance on presentation and management of project information in the context of Building Information Modeling and sustainable design * Includes access to a password-protected web site with bonus content, including a PDF of the printed book and copies of CSI format documents, such as UniFormat and SectionFormat/PageFormat An authoritative resource for effective written communication of design intent, The CSI Construction Specifications Practice Guide presents construction professionals and students studying for the Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) Exam with a solid foundation for improving their methods of collecting and delivering important specifications data. * Serves as an authoritative resource for effective writing of design intent * Includes CSI's best practices for authoring specifications * Offers specialized guidance on project information in the context of BIM and sustainable design

LONG BEACH, Calif., June 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Architectural design firm rktequ is equipped with the latest CAD technology, but one tool stands out with high-quality performance, blazingly fast speed and excellent reliability. The firm uses the Epson® WorkForce® 1100 wide-format printer in its busy business office to produce client designs and everyday projects up to 13"x19." After years working for mega-sized architectural design firms, the founders of rktequ [pronounced "ar-ke-tek"] knew it was time to set up their own business. "We were more than ready to skip the everyday bureaucratic roadblocks, develop our own design ideas, build strong client relationships, and choose the equipment that fits our business," said co-founder Paul Geldbach. The busy entrepreneurs just finished designing the first of several popular china bistro concept restaurants. rktequ also has a full slate of buildings, interiors and public spaces on the drawing board for major clients. Built to Perform "Paul and I are both very 'hands on' in all design projects, but I especially rely on the printer for everyday wide-format work, such as printouts or spreadsheets that we need to review right away with the internal team or the client," said Yopp, who handles the financial part of the business. The design team also employs a high-end printer for creating especially large sets of drawings, but rktequ finds the less expensive WorkForce 1100 very convenient for day-to-day, high performance wide-format work. Output includes spreadsheets, charts, graphs, conceptual designs, building plans, construction drawings, specifications, site analyses, and feasibility studies. The WorkForce 1100 produces high quality images using Epson exclusive instant-dry DURABrite® Ultra inks for fade (1), smudge- and water (2)-resistant prints, ranging from index cards to 13x19 output, making it ideal for creating marketing and business materials in a variety of sizes. The printer offers high performance print speeds – 13 ISO ppm black and 5.5 ISO ppm color single-sided (3).

Survey from Whirlpool Corporation and Habitat for Humanity International Shows that Consumers Commonly Define "Green" as Saving Energy and Water BENTON HARBOR, Mich., June 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- A recent survey conducted on behalf of Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) and Habitat for Humanity International by the NAHB Research Center* showed that 74 percent of consumers believe that less than a quarter of their home can be categorized as “green.” The complete study reported opinions from consumers and builders on various topics related to green home building. n response to a related question, 34 percent of consumers felt that the most common definition for a green home is that it reduces energy and/or water consumption by a significant percentage. Another 23 percent felt that a home can be considered green when the entire home is green. Responses for this question were similar across all income levels. Builders who participated in the survey had similar feelings about the definition of green homes – 35 percent preferred the definition of reducing energy and/or water consumption. However, an additional 35 percent defined homes as green if they are built to certification standards. With regard to green certification programs, consumers overwhelmingly responded that ENERGY STAR® qualification is important for residential builds (78%). The National Green Building Standard® was also considered important by shares of respondents (44%), as well as state certification programs (40%). There were 75 percent of builders who felt that ENERGY STAR® qualification was important for residential builds, while 57 percent responded that the National Green Building Standard® was important. Further demonstrating the importance of certification to this group, 59 percent of builders indicated that they sometimes or always certify homes they build to the specifications of a green certification program. Highlighting the growing importance of the web in green initiatives, 60 percent of consumers answered that they get their green information from the Internet. Consumers also consider TV/radio (54%) and magazines/periodicals (42%) as their primary sources for green news and information. Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that builds, rehabilitates and repairs simple, decent and affordable houses. Habitat homebuyers purchase homes at no profit and finance them with affordable loans. Whirlpool Corporation donates a range and ENERGY STAR® qualified refrigerator to every Habitat home built nationally, totaling more than 125,000 appliances to-date. This is the fourth in a series of findings on the Whirlpool Corporation and Habitat for Humanity survey on green homes that was conducted among consumers and builders. The first press release was issued on Nov. 16, 2010, the second on Jan. 20, 2011 and the third on March 29, 2011.

Makes it Easier to Shop Anywhere, Anytime MADISON, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rayovac®, a worldwide leader in battery power and innovation, announced today the launch of its improved industrial website at www.rayovacindustrial.com. The site now features an e-commerce shopping option that reflects the company’s focus on enabling professional industrial customers to have 24/7 online access to its industrial battery product offerings. The site makes it easier for customers to purchase industrial batteries and lights that are engineered for professional use. Distributors throughout the United States can buy industrial batteries and lights direct from the manufacturer, Rayovac. Online customers can shop at their convenience. Each must meet a minimum order quantity of $300. Exclusive product offers and promotional discounts will be available on the site, such as savings on orders of $500 or more receive free shipping, excluding Alaska and Hawaii. The redesigned and updated website is more current and educational, and includes more information and expert product knowledge. It features easy-to-use navigation with a fresh look and feel that allows online commercial buyers to shop by product category and easily search for specific batteries and lights. The site increases Rayovac’s ability to reach out on a larger scale and more frequently interact with business customers through easy access to social networks and communities of their choice such as Facebook and YouTube. Another key feature is that online customers can sign up and join Rayovac Industrial’s mailing list. Once registered, each e-mail address will receive valuable e-mail notifications about future promotions and product updates.

Highly-integrated Driver Utilizes Unique Control Method to Equalize Current Between Multiple LED Strings SANTA Clara, Calif., June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- National Semiconductor Corp. (NYSE: NSM) today introduced the LM3466, a highly integrated linear LED driver that simplifies the design of high power, wide area lighting fixtures such as streetlights. The LM3466, with just a few passive components, provides a complete system that drives each LED string from any off-the-shelf AC/DC constant-current power supply. LED drivers today often require multiple components to accurately drive a string of LEDs. In addition, maintaining equal currents among LED strings results in a complex design. National's LM3466 solves these problems by integrating a MOSFET and utilizing a unique control scheme. The high level of integration enables a basic design of just one LM3466 along with one resistor and one capacitor to drive a string of LEDs. A complete fixture can be constructed by repeating the strings in parallel. A unique dynamic current equalizing control scheme enables communication between each LM3466 LED driver to divide current equally or ratiometrically amongst multiple active LED strings. No binning of the LEDs is required. During an open (inactive) string state, each LM3466 automatically equalizes current throughout remaining strings to maintain relatively constant output power. National will demonstrate the LM3466 in its booth A43 in Hall 8.1 at the Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition in Guangzhou, China, June 9-12. Technical Features of National's LM3466 LED Driver National's LM3466 linear LED driver integrates a 70V, 1.5A N-Channel MOSFET and features a wide input range of 6V to 70V. LED strings with maximum stack voltages exceeding 70V may be driven with minor changes to the external components. The LM3466 includes a fault status output, input under voltage lockout, current limit and thermal shutdown protection. Linear circuitry wards against any EMI and ensures compliance to the EN 55015 EMC standard or other regional EMC regulatory requirements. Each LM3466 conducts a current up to 1.5A. Communication between the LM3466 and constant current power supply is not required, nor is LED voltage binning. The LM3466 operates with minimal overhead voltage to maximize electrical efficiency. System output power is maintained even for any number of open strings.

ATLANTA, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Home builders who are still searching for ROI from social marketing are in luck. With the release of the second edition of Social Media for Home Builders 2.0: It's Easier Than You Think, they will learn how to build an effective social marketing program using blogs, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and other tools. Author Carol M. Flammer, MIRM, CAPS, CSP helps readers understand social media and construct a strategic plan for attracting more prospects, following up on leads and closing on more homes. Released by BuilderBooks, the publishing arm of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the book includes case studies showing results ranging from a 25-300 percent increase in website traffic, to increased customer referrals through using social media. Social Media for Home Builders 2.0: It's Easier Than You Think, speaks specifically to the needs of the real estate industry, and teaches home builders how to build a social media presence from the ground up. The updated edition includes even more examples, details and strategies than the first edition, featuring examples of specific social media campaigns and their sales results by builder type; sample tweets and Twitter campaigns to draw foot traffic to homes and communities; and new research on how people are using social media. Flammer outlines in a clear, concise style how to engage consumers through social media. She provides content suggestions for creating and maintaining a blog, and includes real-life examples of successful blogs that have attracted readers. Flammer also provides details on how to: * Improve search engine optimization (SEO) * Gain Facebook friends and Twitter followers * Find the right social media groups * Run social media campaigns * Optimize websites, blogs and other social networking sites * Track, analyze and improve results Carol Flammer is a public relations and social media marketing expert, strategist and consultant. With 20 years of experience, Carol has established herself as the "go to" person for real estate and construction products public relations and social media. Carol is the founder of Atlanta Real Estate Forum, president of Flammer Relations, Inc., and managing partner of mRELEVANCE, LLC, an Internet marketing, social media and public relations firm with offices in Atlanta and Chicago. Social Media for Home Builders 2.0: It's Easier Than You Think is available for purchase at www.BuilderBooks.com.

ESCONDIDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Realty Income Corporation (Realty Income), The Monthly Dividend Company®, (NYSE: O), announced today that it has launched a new corporate website to provide shareholders and investors with more in-depth information about the Company. In addition to offering expanded content about Realty Income, the new site provides investors with easy access to get answers to their investment questions and allows them to sign up to receive various email communications from the Company. Visitors to the site can also enjoy educational videos as well as many charts, graphs, and other interesting comparative data. Realty Income, The Monthly Dividend Company®, is a New York Stock Exchange real estate company dedicated to providing shareholders with dependable monthly income. To date the Company has declared 491 consecutive common stock monthly dividends throughout its 42-year operating history and increased the dividend 61 times since Realty Income’s listing on the New York Stock Exchange in 1994. The monthly income is supported by the cash flow from over 2,500 properties owned under long-term lease agreements with regional and national retail chains and other commercial enterprises. The Company is an active buyer of net-leased properties nationwide. Additional information about the Company can be obtained from the corporate website at www.realtyincome.com.

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Reliant Energy’s low-income customers will get relief from high temperatures and summer electricity bills through several assistance programs announced today, including Beat the Heat Centers, free home energy monitors to help manage energy use, bill payment assistance and flexible payment options. For the sixth consecutive year, Reliant is sponsoring Beat the Heat Centers in Houston to provide a place for individuals to stay cool during the heat of the day and minimize their home electricity use. Beat the Heat Centers are open now until Oct. 1, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. This is the second year for Beat the Heat Centers in Dallas and Corpus Christi. The company is also giving away up to 1,000 home energy monitors to help low-income customers with smart meters learn more about how they use electricity, giving them more control over their energy use and cost. The home energy monitor is a wireless in-home display that communicates near real-time information, including current electricity usage and cost, and a comparison of daily usage and weekly usage information. With that information, customers can make decisions about how they use energy to help manage their household budget.

BW Creative Wood Industries, the world's leading manufacturer of innovative railing systems for both interior stairways and exterior deck or porches, has launched a new website MAPLE RIDGE, British Columbia, June 1, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The new website, www.bwcreativewood.com, provides visitors with a wealth of insight and information including "How to" videos, "Features and Benefits" videos and practical insight from professional installers. "This new website brings together all our innovative railing products and brands under one corporate site," says Rob Mitchell, President of BW Creative Wood Industries Ltd. "This new website is the perfect next step in providing our customers with an unparalleled experience. About BW Creative Wood Industries Ltd. BW Creative Wood Industries Ltd. is one of the world's leading manufacturers of railing systems, components, and accessories for the residential housing market. Since 1974 they have built an outstanding reputation on their core values of trust, integrity, respect and fairness. BW Creative Wood products not only enhance the beauty and safety of homes, but are simple to install. BW Creative Wood Industries' products are sold through Wholesale Distributors, DIY Retail Chains, Home Improvement Centers, Independent Lumberyards & Dealers as well as OEM relationships.

TAMPA, Fla., May 31, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- CertainTeed is introducing a new drywall solution, Easi-Lite™ gypsum board. Up to 30 percent lighter than standard gypsum boards, Easi-Lite can be used for both interior ceilings and walls in residential and commercial applications. The lightweight design makes the wallboard easier to transport, stock on the jobsite and install, reducing muscle strain and fatigue. In addition, Easi-Lite gypsum board is easy to score and snap for improved installation. Designed with sag resistance, it is ideal for 1⁄2-inch ceiling applications, allowing for one board type to be used on the interior walls and ceilings. Easi-Lite features a uniform high-strength, sag-resistant gypsum core with a 100 percent recycled face and back paper and enables building professionals to achieve the same high performance standards of a traditional gypsum board. It is GREENGUARD® Children and Schools(SM) certified and designated as a low volatile organic compound (VOC) emitting product. "Building professionals are constantly looking for innovative ways to streamline their processes to maximize profitability without sacrificing quality," said John Donaldson, president of CertainTeed Gypsum. "The introduction of Easi-Lite complements CertainTeed's comprehensive product line and strengthens our position as a single source for products that meet a wide range of performance attributes and specifications." Easi-Lite gypsum board is now starting to ship on a regional basis, and availability will soon be expanded across North America. Offering a broad range of gypsum and finishing products for interior and exterior needs, CertainTeed Gypsum has served the North American building industry for more than 80 years and is a subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, the world's leading producer of gypsum products. This, in combination with the full range of affiliated CertainTeed Corporation building products, provides architects, contractors, builders and dealers one partner to provide service and support for commercial and residential building projects.

SF Mobile is now available as a free app from iTunes FALLS CHURCH, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Noblis, Inc., a leading science, technology, and strategy organization with a proven record of success working in sustainable practices and operations, announced today that SF Mobile, a cross-platform mobile application of the U.S. General Services Administration’s (GSA’s) Sustainable Facilities Tool (SF Tool), is now available in the iTunes App Store. The SF Tool and its new mobile counterpart, SF Mobile, were designed to help users develop strategies, standards, guidance, and measures to improve operational performance and spur achievement of federal sustainability goals. SF Mobile gives users access to sustainable building information and design guidance for interior space projects. It helps users identify and prioritize cost-effective, sustainable strategies for workplace projects, especially those less than 10,000 sq. ft. The app features 3-D representations of office interiors and built-in material comparisons, as well as design guidance, and a rich, searchable glossary of commonly used terms. Where further detail is appropriate, SF Mobile links directly to the online Sustainable Facilities Tool. SF Mobile is intended for building occupants and owners as well as property and project managers and developers seeking guidance about sustainability, why it matters, and how to implement sustainable solutions.