Tradeshow Report

(Feb. 2009)

Steve Kleber Recaps The 2009 International Builders' Show

The mood of the decision makers in attendance at the 2009 International Builders’ Show was cautious but optimistic that the quality of products and ecological innovation being shown would lead the industry out of the economic downturn later in the year. Many companies continued with new product introductions aimed at providing builders with added value and design options for home systems, home interiors and exterior ease of maintenance and variety. As we toured the show over several days, it was the K&A team’s impression that there was a lot to be excited about.

Although there was more there than could possibly be captured in this short piece, we marveled at the new offering of home elevators by Otis Residential Elevators. We also loved the Honeywell Prestige Comfort Systems thermostat, which self adjusts to cut annual heating and cooling by over 30 percent. Hearth and Home Technologies unveiled its new LUX60, modern collection Direct-Vent Gas Fireplace complete with LED lights and a sealed combustion system to protecting the home from carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide.

Also new to the marketplace was Rinnai’s entry into the outdoor living category with their Hearth Products, Outdoor Fireplaces. “Building Better with Soy” seemed to be on everyone’s tongues BioBased Insulation and others showcased their soy-based products including plywood, plastics and foam insulation.

Health and wellness remains a key hot button for the homeowner and Everpure was a leader at the show with their commercial water filtration systems for today’s homes and buildings.  Air quality was also a hot topic and we loved the innovations by Panasonic and Continental Fan.

In the energy category, solar powered water heating was featured by Stiebel Eltron and Cooper Lighting introduced its HALO EcoTwist light bulbs. Windows and doors took on beauty, function, and energy efficiency with several newcomers to the category and to the US including Patagonia and some of our favorites with outstanding track records such as Eagle Windows and Doors.


 

 


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