The K&A team attended the Pacific Coast Builders Conference (PCBC 2015), located in sunny San Diego, from June 24 to 25. Our adventure began by sweeping the show floor to scope out the latest products and trends specifically catering towards residential and commercial builders based in the western region of the United States, and this year did not disappoint. From wall to wall, manufacturers showcased new home and building innovations for both interior and exterior applications.
K&A spotted two trends at PCBC, from opposite sides of the spectrum, fire safety and rain-style showerheads caught our attention.
The state of California has strict new building codes and rules that builders, remodelers and contractors need to adhere to, including Title 24, which took effect on January 1, 2014. Under this code, California design/build professionals are required to implement certain measures to ensure fire safety. To guarantee the regulations are met, home and building manufacturers are developing products that cater to this need.
Select examples the K&A trend-spotting team uncovered can be found below:
Georgia-Pacific Gypsum ToughRock® Fireguard 45™ Gypsum Board
Specifically used in residential projects, ToughRock® Fireguard 45™ Gypsum Board is the only standard ½” wallboard to be UL classified for 45-minute fire-rated wall assemblies, and can be used anywhere standard or lightweight ½” drywall is used today. In addition, based on RAL™ Sound Transmission Loss Testing, ToughRock® Fireguard 45™ Gypsum Board provides quiet, peaceful living by lowering the transmission of sounds between rooms more effectively than competing ½” lightweight gypsum board, as tested in assemblies with 24″ wood/steel stud walls.
LP Building Products FlameBlock Fire-rated OSB Sheathing
LP® FlameBlock® Fire-Rated OSB Sheathing has structural design values equal to standard sheathing in the same performance category. It is ICC-certified (ESR-1365) per AC264 with a Class A and 30-minute Flame Spread Rating. This impressive sheathing product combines fire resistance and impressive structural performance in a single panel.
KPS PowerHome Fire Alarm Monitoring Systems
Fire monitoring systems can be lifesavers. KPS fire alarm monitoring systems are cost effective and fully UL Certified. These systems are designed with two points of connection for monitoring, including a dedicated phone line and a second back-up phone line. In addition, the second line required by fire authorities can be connected using the company’s cellular back-up service so the fire alarm can send the signal even if the phone line service is down. When the fire alarm detects smoke, heat or water flow in fire sprinklers, it automatically sends a signal to the KPS Monitoring Command Center.
The second trend K&A honed in on was rain-style showerheads for bathroom spaces. As demand builds among homeowners for spa-like retreats in their homes, kitchen and bath design/build professionals are expecting fixture manufacturers to meet those demands. While drought-stricken California has strict water consumption rules in place, manufacturers such as Kohler, Toto and Parmir Water Systems are designing products that not only accommodate homeowners’ needs but also comply with government regulations.
Here are examples of rain-style showerhead products we saw:
Toto Aero Showerhead
The Aero rain-style showerhead meets California’s water-saving regulations, but does it with style. The Aero is available in multiple diameters, which allows a homeowner to customize their bathroom space to their liking. It features Aero-Jet+™ technology, which adds air to each water droplet, to create a sensual, revitalizing experience. It’s available in polished chrome, polished nickel or brushed nickel finishes.
Kohler Contemporary Square Rainhead
This showerhead simulates the soaking deluge of a warm summer downpour. It features innovative Katalyst air-induction technology, which efficiently mixes air and water to produce large water droplets and deliver a powerful, thoroughly drenching overhead shower experience. It also has an optimized sprayface that creates a denser uniform spray pattern for consistent coverage and feeling of warmth. Made from solid brass, it is available in polished chrome, vibrant polished nickel, vibrant brushed nickel, and vibrant brushed bronze finishes.
Parmir Water Systems Shower / Tub Faucet
Part of the Passion series, this intimate, sleek design rain-style showerhead is also practical. It can be used for both residential and commercial applications, ensuring a spa-like atmosphere regardless of location. Parmir solely incorporates the finest, high density, SS 304 stainless steel to construct its faucets with single cast technology. Like all Parmir showerhead and faucets, it is environmentally friendly faucets and is 100% lead-free, rust-resistant, anti-oxidant and completely recyclable.
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