Show Time: IBS PreviewCheck out some of the hottest products from the International Builders' Show.

The International Builders' Show is back in Orlando, Fla., for a third year, and the NAHB expects it to be bigger and better than ever. The event at the Orange County Convention Center Feb. 7-10 promises to include the most exciting new products for the home building and remodeling industries. There will be more than 1,600 exhibitors from the United States and around the world. In this issue, catch a glimpse of some of the products and materials that can help you save time and money and attract new customers. Walking around the Builders' Show may not be as fun as spending time at Disney World, but it's certainly more educational.

Thomas Lighting

Thomas Lighting. With its obelisk cage design and architectural feel, the Longitude collection embodies urban chic, the maker says. The highlighted bronze finish and painted parchment glass add warmth and welcome, the firm says. The manufacturer is also introducing five mini pendants, which they say are becoming increasingly popular in kitchens over islands or bars. 800-365-4448. www.thomaslighting.com.

KitchenAid

KitchenAid. A new series of built-in appliances completes the KitchenAid Architect series II suite. The suite combines the durability and performance of the original Architect series with a cohesive style, consistent design, and advanced product features, the maker says. Handles are easier to grip, even with an oven mitt, and beveled, seamless edges make cleaning easier. 800-253-3977. www.insideadvantage.com.

Merillat Industries

Merillat Industries. Fusion's clean design is a new option for buyers who like contemporary cabinets, the manufacturer says. The line has a European-style full-overlay, one-piece door that is available in maple and cherry and can be transformed to soft contemporary with the company's moldings or other accessories. 517-263-0771. www.merillat.com.

Jeld-Wen

Jeld-Wen. Miracle Door is a re-introduction of a historic interior door design that originated in the 1920s. The company brought back the door due to customer request and to meet the demand for retro-inspired products. The door has a flat panel and picture-frame molding accents, and the molding, panel, and door frame can be different species. 800-877-9482. www.jeld-wen.com.

Empire Level

Empire Level. Featuring a solid-block acrylic vial that provides enhanced readability and accuracy, the True Blue heavy-duty magnetic em71 Jamb Set level is designed to make squaring door jambs easy, fast, and accurate. The em71 set includes a 78-inch and a 32-inch level. Neodymium rare earth magnets stabilize the levels on metal studs, door frames, or any other metal surface for hands-free use. 800-558-0722. www.empirelevel.com.

Cultured Stone

Cultured Stone. The Pro-Fit Alpine Ledgestone is perfect for color and shadow in a variety of design applications, the maker says. The modular components feature a patented interlocking mortar groove for secure adhesion and tight-fitting installation to ensure an expertly crafted, finished look. New colors for 2007 include autumn, Mojave, and shale (shown). 800-255-1727. www.culturedstone.com.

Eagle Roofing Products

Eagle Roofing Products. Designed to complement the company's Capistrano roof tile, the Boosted Capistrano decorative cap tile offers the look and feel of a mortar-boosted clay roof. The cap tile comes in seven colors that emulate the rustic tones of natural clay in combinations of brown, gold, tan, natural, and yellow terra-cotta blends. Boosted Capistrano is easy to install, and is priced less than two-piece clay boosted systems, the maker says. 800-300-3245. www.eagleroofing.com.

ClosetMaid

ClosetMaid. New upgrades to the laminate MasterSuite closet system include full-extension drawer slides for optimum accessibility to drawer interiors. The easy-to-install drawer slides offer builders another way to upsell a MasterSuite system, according to the manufacturer. The MasterSuite system offers several drawer models and sizes. 800-874-0008. www.closetmaid.com.

Hansgrohe

Hansgrohe. The Allegro has a high-arc spout to accommodate large pots and pans, but its flattened design also offers extra clearance. A 60-inch pullout spray has a one-touch button and a built-in spray-lock button provides hands-free usage. Cast brass housing offers corrosion resistance and ceramic cartridges provide durable operation. It comes in chrome and steel or a combination of the two. 800-488-8119. www.hansgrohe-usa.com.

Weather Shield

Weather Shield. Engineered to improve a home's energy usage while protecting comfort levels, Zo-e-shield glazing systems are now available on many of the firm's window and door products. The system delivers the lowest center-of-glass U-values and solar heat gain coefficients and protects a home's interior from UV rays while allowing more visible light into the home, according to the manufacturer. 800-538-8836. www.weathershield.com.

Exterior Portfolio by Crane

Exterior Portfolio by Crane. Offering the aesthetics of natural stone in a format that installs at least 50 percent faster than traditional stone, BellaStone exterior panels weigh five times less than manufactured cement stone, according to the manufacturer. The panels mount directly to the wall without any prep work or special installation materials. BellaStone offers an R-value of up to 4.0 and reduces sound transmission; its built-in moisture management system prevents water damage. 800-366-8472. www.thinkoutsidenow.com.

Arch Wood Protection

Arch Wood Protection. The Danback wood backing system for steel-framed construction saves 90 percent of the time required to install backers by the usual one-at-a-time method, the manufacturer says. Providing support for anchoring cabinets, shelves, counters, handrails, sinks, and other fixtures in a steel-framed building, Danback units consist of Arch Wood Protection Dricon plywood sections joined by flexible metal hinges. 770-805-3280. www.dricon.com.

Masterbrand

Masterbrand. Featuring a light stain and intricate furniture distressing techniques, the new Baroque finish for the Omega brand creates heirloom appeal with strong character. The finish is available in pecan and alder, and is only offered through the Omega Custom line. It is shown here on the Durham door style in pecan (left) and alder (right). 319-235-5700. www.omegacabinetry.com.

Delta Faucet

Delta Faucet. A magnetic closure ensures that the wand of the Allora pull-down spray kitchen faucet engages when docked with the spout and stays engaged until pulled out again. The faucet's high-arc spout and belled spray head have a hint of traditional styling coupled with a modern aesthetic and functionality. The pull-down wand switches from stream to spray at the touch of a button. Chrome and the maker's Brilliance stainless steel finishes are available. 800-345-3358. www.deltafaucet.com.

Georgia-Pacific

Georgia-Pacific. Featuring a water-repellant coating, Plytanium DryPly plywood absorbs up to 40 percent less water than panels without the protective application for up to four weeks, the company says. The maker adds that using the product for subfloors can help builders avoid problems such as warping and excessive edge swelling. 800-284-5347. www.gpplywood.com.

Boise

Boise. Engineered for tall walls and other applications requiring strong, straight framing materials, the Versa-Stud offers at least 2.1 times more bending strength and 20 percent more stiffness than No. 2 SPF 2x6 studs, according to the manufacturer. Featuring none of the checks, cracks, or twists common in solid lumber, the Versa-Stud comes in consistent dimensions—a 1-1/2-inch width and five different depths—to create squarer corners and flatter, more plumb walls. 208-384-6161. www.bc.com.

Quiet Solution

Quiet Solution. QuietRock 510 soundproof drywall panels are 1/2 inch thick and come in panel sizes of 4 feet wide by 8, 9, 10, or 12 feet long. Installed, the material delivers solid sound reduction, with STC ratings of 47 to 52 in typical remodel situations, and higher performance depending on construction techniques and combination of materials. 408-541-8000. www.quietsolution.com.

Formica

Formica. Two new series are being added to the manufacturer's Riverwash high-pressure laminate finish collection. Both Quarstone series and Granite series laminate surfaces have a low-luster dual gloss texturing that emulates the crystalline structure of natural quartz and granite. The Quarstone series is available in Crème, Walnut, and Smoke; the Granite series, featuring random color variations and veining, comes in American Rose, Brazilian Brown, and Venetian Gold. 800-367-6422. www.formica.com.

Hickory Hardware

Hickory Hardware. Inspired by 19th-century metalwork, the Studio collection of decorative cabinet hardware reflects the simple modern aesthetic of post-Victorian style, the company says. The pieces have a touch of Japanese influence, too, and come in bright nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and Venetian bronze. The line includes knobs, pulls, and cup pulls. 877-556-2918. www.hickoryhardware.com.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee. Three new rotary hammers for the 1-inch SDS category include the V28 cordless compact (0756-22), 1-inch compact (5363-21), and 1-inch D-handle (5369-21) models. All three feature three modes of operation for maximum versatility, a keyless SDS chuck for fast tool-free bit changes and a variable-speed trigger and reverse switch that allows accurate drill bit starting and easy bit/fastener removal. An industry-exclusive Anti-Vibration System (AVS) is featured on the compact and D-handle corded models. 800-729-3878. www.milwaukeetool.com.

Therma-Tru

Therma-Tru. The Tru-Defense line of entry and patio door systems is designed to protect homes from severe weather, including flying debris from high winds, torrential rains, and harsh winter storms, the manufacturer says. The products have been engineered to work together to provide better protection against air and water infiltration and structural wind loads. The entry and patio systems are DP-40 certified. 800-843-7628. www.thermatru.com..

Armstrong Flooring

Armstrong Flooring. Designed for easy, quick installation, the Locking Hardwood flooring offers domestic and exotic species in three visual collections: hand-scraped, global species, and oak. The 5-inch-wide planks install similarly to click laminate floors, without nails, staples, or glue. The engineered construction controls natural expansion and contraction, so the hardwood flooring can be installed at any grade, including below ground. 800-527-5903. www.armstrong.com.

Cambria

Cambria. Four colors are being introduced to the Cambria Quartz line of surfacing for countertops and other applications. Sussex offers hints of gray and blue on a chocolate brown base; Dover is a sleek tan ideal for contemporary projects; Southampton features a bold mixture of black, gray, copper, and sky blue; and Hyde Park showcases natural gray and light green tones. 866-226-2742. www.cambriausa.com.

Wellborn Cabinet

Wellborn Cabinet. The Café finish is now available on the manufacturer's hickory cabinets. It is the first glaze the firm has added to the hickory species. Café will be available on all five wood species including cherry, character maple, maple, hickory, and oak. 800-336-8040. www.wellborn.com.

Maytag

Maytag. The Epic front-load laundry pair features a Smooth Balance suspension system that works like shock absorbers to help reduce noise and vibration. The washer is available in two Energy Star-qualified models providing 3.8 cubic feet of wash space. Each load uses 65 percent less water and 46 percent less energy than conventional top-load washers. 800-253-3977. www.insideadvantage.com.

ILevel by Weyerhaeuser

ILevel by Weyerhaeuser. ILevel TimberStrand laminated strand lumber beam allows builders to cut larger holes in the field to accommodate pipes, wires, and conduits. The product's design allows for multiple holes depending on length. It comes in widths of 1-3/4 or 3-1/2 inches in depths of 9-1/2, 1-17/8, and 14 inches. 888-453-8358. www.ilevel.com.

Beam Industries

Beam Industries. The Serenity QS Power Unit central vacuum's smoke-tinted, antimicrobial collection receptacle is lined with an agent that prevents the formation and growth of mold for improved indoor air quality. Its specially designed motor produces up to 640 air watts of cleaning power, but the system operates 4 decibels quieter than competitive systems, the company says. Serenity QS's Quiet Pak insulation package, Sound Off muffler, and a unique mounting and bumper system reduce vibration and motor noise. 515-832-4620. www.beamvac.com.

Azek Trimboards

Azek Trimboards. Azek to Mill provides a 1-1/4-inch-thick cellular PVC trimboard that allows millwork shops or builders to mill custom trim profiles without having to laminate several thinner boards together to achieve the correct thickness. Available in boards 9-1/4 inches wide and 18 feet long as well as sheets 48 inches wide and 96 inches long, Azek to Mill provides the look, feel, and sound of wood trim without the maintenance issues, the manufacturer says. 877-275-2935. www.azek.com.

Royal Group Technologies

Royal Group Technologies. Designed to meet recent changes to the Florida Building Code, RoyalGuard impact-resistant windows and doors are rated DP-50+ and also meet standards for burglary resistance and preventing forced entry. The windows feature a fully welded 3-1/4-inch frame and sash, and 7/8-inch double glazed IG units. Patio doors are also fully welded with a 5-5/8-inch frame, reinforced panels, and a heavy-duty aluminum screen. The product line's laminated, insulated glass also reduces sound transmission and protects against UV rays. 905-264-0701. www.royalcustomprofiles.com.

TimberTech

TimberTech. The Colonial spindle, a part of the RadianceRail system, features a spindle design that was created to fit current styles and trends in decking, according to the manufacturer. The co-injected spindle consists of a wood composite core capped with an exterior layer of vinyl. The spindles install the same as square balusters and use the same hardware. 800-307-7780. www.timbertech.com.

Knaack Mfg. Co

Knaack Mfg. Co. Bulkhead and shelving systems are the new introductions to the Weather Guard line of van storage products. Made from 16-gauge steel and 3/16-inch steel top mounting angles, the products include a 9-by-12-inch Dog Hatch in the bottom of the bulkhead and a 14-inch-wide shelf with a tapered end for closer installation to the sidewall. The products fit Ford and Chevy vans. 800-456-7865. www.weatherguard.com.

Dow

Dow Building & Construction. To accommodate regions where code requirements have limited the use of rigid foam in foundation applications because of the potential for termite damage, Dow has developed Styrofoam Blueguard extruded foam insulation, which incorporates Preventol HS100 insecticide into its foam matrix. Styrofoam Blueguard can be used in areas with very heavy termite infestation in below-grade applications, the company says. The product also provides a high R-value and moisture resistance. 866-583-2583. www.insulateyourhome.com.

CertainTeed

CertainTeed. Northwoods vinyl siding offers the look of milled cedar shingles and is ideal for siding accents or whole-house applications. Two profiles, single 7-inch straight edge rough-split shakes and single 10-inch random hand-split shakes, are made of .05-inch-thick PVC and come in 17 colors. Northwoods siding installs 16 inches on center and comes in a 10-foot panel length for fewer laps and faster installation. 800-233-8990. www.certainteed.com.

Hy-Lite

Hy-Lite. The Private Elegance series of decorative glass windows has highly obscure glass patterns that offer privacy but facilitate light transmission. A variety of glass types and leading create the Victorian, floral, and spring flower designs in square- or oval-shaped vinyl-framed windows. 800-655-9087. www.hy-lite.com.

Fypon

Fypon. Designed to install around existing structural supports in 15 minutes, the semi-assembled PVC Column Wrap system comes in kits containing the two-piece column shaft with interlocking vertical grooves, two sets of squaring blocks, a two-piece cap and base design, and PVC adhesive to glue the pieces together before fastening. The non-structural wraps come in 18 sizes and several styles. 800-446-3040. www.fypon.com.

Bosch Power Tools

Bosch Power Tools. The 36V Flexible Power System offers two task-specific 36-volt battery packs in a lithium-ion platform to run on the company's 36-volt Litheon line of tools. Weighing less than a 14.4-volt nicad battery, the SlimPack is ideal for one-handed applications or overhead work, and it provides twice the voltage and up to 15 percent more runtime than many 18-volt tools. The FatPack delivers twice the voltage and runtime of an 18-volt nicad battery at nearly the same weight for heavy-duty or extended applications. 877-267-2499. www.boschtools.com.

MTI Whirlpools

MTI Whirlpools. The 7242 shower base has a customizable glass enclosure system that allows users to select one, two, or three glass panels. The base is made from non-porous Lucite cast acrylic and has a center drain. Hinges come in four options: chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed or polished brass. 800-783-8827. www.mtiwhirlpools.com.

Price Pfister

Price Pfister. Merging beauty and practicality, three of the maker's lines have added convenient pull-down faucets. Available in the Hanover, Treviso, and Ashfield collections, each high-arc faucet has an anti-splash feature that allows users to adjust spray volume to a desired pressure between 20 percent and 100 percent. The spray head also lets users easily toggle between spray and stream modes. A 360-degree swivel spout permits custom handle positioning. Each style incorporates a 75-inch nylon hose with ball swivel spray for maximum flexibility. 800-732-8238. www.pricepfister.com.

Baldwin Hardware

Baldwin Hardware. More than a dozen contemporary styles have been added to the Estate collection of door hardware, including the modern Lakeshore handleset and five coordinating levers forged of solid brass. The Lakeshore suite offers five additional lever designs available in singles or pairs in stainless steel. Lakeshore and the other new contemporary styles are available in Baldwin's full range of finishes. 800-437-7448. www.baldwinhardware.com.

Rheem

Rheem. The maker's second-generation tankless water heating products include the addition of an intermediate-size 5.3-gpm model, and a 7.4-gpm direct-vent model that alleviates indoor air quality problems by bringing combustion air in from the outside. The EZ-Link feature connects two side-by-side tankless units by a communication cable, letting them operate as a single water heater. A 140-degree thermostat and .66-gpm minimum activation flow are now standard and an auto-on feature automatically restores power after an outage. 334-213-3800. www.rheem.com.

Simonton

Simonton. StormBreaker Plus impact-resistant sliding vinyl doors reach up to 8 feet tall and span an opening of up to 12 feet. Made with one pane of tempered glass and one pane of impact-resistant laminated glass to withstand severe weather, the doors are available in two- and three-panel configurations in nine stock sizes with tan or white vinyl frames. 800-746-6686. www.simonton.com.

Henkel Corp

Henkel Corp. Green series sealants and adhesives give builders and contractors a way to meet low-VOC regulations. The products contribute to improved indoor air quality and aid in making structures more energy efficient, the company says. A variety of products are available including drywall and panel construction adhesive and subfloor and deck adhesive. 440-937-7000. www.henkel.us.

Pella

Pella. Architect series windows and doors are now available in an expanded line of wood styles. Mahogany brings fine-furniture elegance to windows and doors, while alder adds rugged beauty to a rustic décor. Douglas fir offers a distinctive grain pattern for a sleek, contemporary look, and pine features a versatile grain pattern perfect for painting or staining. Design options include unique shapes and sizes, unlimited exterior colors, and standard and custom grille patterns. 888-847-3552. www.pella.com.