ToolBase E-News volume 151
In This Issue:
CHECK OUT NEW AND IMPROVED TOOLBASE.ORG:
If you have never explored ToolBase.org, now is the time to check it out. Even if you're a regular user of the site, you'll look at it anew. The ToolBase site, always known as a reliable resource for technical information on innovative and advanced building products and practices, has recently re-launched with an improved site architecture and navigation system. As always, the site still features the PATH Technology Inventory, ToolBase Newsletters, and write-ups on relevant industry Field Evaluations and case studies. Now the site also includes easy-to-get-to sections on Building Systems, Home Building Topics, Design and Construction Guides, Best Practices, and Construction Methods. Find ways to improve the homes you build today -- visit the new ToolBase.org.
NEW APPROACH CAN HELP CUT WASTE WHILE BUILDING HOME:
According to a recent Associated Press article (David Bradley, 06/11/06), about 25 percent of the waste that ends up at dumps each year is tied to housing – that’s more than 31 million tons. However, a new system recently introduced by Weyerhaeuser aims to reduce construction waste and maximize materials usage by systemizing the fabrication of framing materials from blueprints. According to the article, the iLevel Business Unit will enable plans and specs to be followed precisely, and builders will receive precise materials that eliminate guesswork and make jobs easier for crews. In addition to optimizing material usage, the company says the iLevel approach will help roofs fit better to the walls and walls to floors. To learn more, read the article.
SOLAR POWER BECOMING MORE OF A NEW HOME SELLING POINT FOR CONSUMERS:
A recent Roper survey commissioned by Sharp Electronics Corporation found that 80 percent of Americans believe home builders should offer solar power as an option for all new home construction. According to a press release (06/21/06), the survey, which measured perceptions of solar power among 1,004 respondents, found that once respondents were told solar homes have a proven higher resale value, two-thirds of them stated that they would pay a premium for homes with solar systems installed. Half of those surveyed would spend up to 10 percent more for a solar-equipped house. The top reason homeowners in the survey specified for wanting to use solar power is to save money on monthly utility bills, but respondents also cited wanting to use solar to decrease the United States' dependence on oil. To learn more about the survey and survey results, read the release.
BUYERS SHOWING INCREASED DEMAND FOR STORM-RESISTANT HOUSES:
It may come as no surprise, but according to a recent article in the New York Times (Joseph B. Treaster, 06/22/06 – reprinted in Orlando Sentinel), after two years of horrendous hurricanes, demand for homes that can withstand potentially disastrous weather conditions has jumped sharply along the Southern coasts. Builders who construct storm-resistant homes, which may exceed even the strictest building codes, are seeing brisk sales even without advertising. Market research conducted in Florida this year found that potential homebuyers ranked safety and durability much higher than traditional upgrade features, like granite countertops. In addition to withstanding damage from severe storms, these homes often qualify for lower insurance premiums and can have higher resale values. To learn more, read the article.
ALCOA UNVEILS NEW KEVLAR-BASED, PROJECTILE-PROOF PANELING MATERIAL:
According to a recent Associated Press article (Daniel Lovering, 06/08/06), Alcoa Inc. is introducing a construction paneling material designed to shield building facades from high winds and debris during hurricanes and other storms. The material uses an aluminum composite lined with DuPont’s Kevlar, the material used to make bulletproof vests. It is intended to deflect projectiles rather than let them penetrate the outer layer of a building’s façade. Although some similar products exist, Alcoa claims the new product, Reynobond, is innovative because it needs no concrete, plywood, or other reinforcing material. The product has undergone storm simulation tests, where it was rammed with 2x4 planks traveling at 50 feet per second. To learn more, read the article.
PROGRAM ENGINEERS A NEW FUTURE IN TECHNOLOGY FOR GIRLS:
A recent article in the Oakland Tribune (Monique Beeler, 06/22/06) highlights an intensive two-week summer program based at the Chabot Space & Science Center in Oakland, Calif., that taught girls in grades 5 through 12 how to install innovative building practices and techniques in a green “dollhouse.” Students learned about wallpaper made from recycled water bottles, solar panels, bamboo flooring, porous concrete, building products made from recycled nylon and tires, and about how different glass products react to sunlight and heat. The Techbridge Summer Academy, which is free to participants, aims to combat trends that show low numbers of women in engineering and sciences by teaching girls about the practical applications of science, engineering, and technology in an atmosphere that encourages them to consider jobs in technical fields. In 2005, the program was honored by the National Science Foundation as its "model program demonstrating significant achievement." To learn more read the article.
