Performance-tested lumber

According to iLevel, component manufacturers rely on its MSR/MEL Performance Tested Lumber to help ensure the lumber they use meets the critical engineering design values required for prefabricated structural framing. iLevel tests every piece of Machine-Stress-Rated Lumber (MSR) and Machine-Evaluated Lumber (MEL) for quality and consistency. The result of the mechanical grading and quality-control processes is lumber that meets the required design properties for a given grade and specific application, regardless of the species. In addition, this grading precision minimizes waste and can help framing component manufacturers save money by more precisely matching the lumber to the specific application needs.
iLevel by Weyerhaeuser
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Composite decking
CertainTeed Corporation pairs the strength of its core Boardwalk composite decking technology with a unique, weatherable cap to create a new line of composite decking with deeper, richer colors and a new natural wood texture. The new line, Boardwalk Signature HFS (Hidden Fastener System) features the strength and durability of CertainTeed’s patented EcoTech material, which consists of a unique blend of polyvinyl chloride, a weatherable polymer, and recycled natural fibers to provide a reliable, even-textured product for greater strength and consistent appearance.
CertainTeed Corporation
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Flooring warranty
Ainsworth has released a new, improved warranty on its Durastrand Flooring Sturd-I-Floor. The warranty guarantees the installer will not have to worry about sanding the edge-enhanced subfloor during installation. The no-sand warranty is for 90 days and also includes a guarantee against delamination for 50 years. According to the company, the no-sand warranty will lower the installed cost to the builder by reducing labor costs.
Ainsworth
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Water-repellent plywood sub-floor
Georgia-Pacific Wood Products LLC’s Plytanium DryPly plywood—with a water-repellent coating—helps protect against rain- and moisture-related problems during the normal construction cycle. For added security, Georgia-Pacific offers a 100-percent Builder Satisfaction Guarantee against delamination, edge swell, and joint sanding. Additionally, Georgia-Pacific is giving builders an incentive to try the product for themselves through the DryPly Builder Partnership Program, offering rebates and sales tools to builders who join the program.
Georgia-Pacific Wood Products LLC
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Deck screw
Simpson Strong-Tie’s new deck screw solves several fastening issues with composite-decking installation. The Composi-Lok Deck Screw, part of Simpson’s Quik Drive product line, combines ease of installation and reliability with a finished look that will complement any deck. Composi-Lok features "wings" on the shaft of the screw that counter-bore a hole into the deck board. These wings create a channel for the excess composite material, which reduces upward pressure on the screw and prevents the common problem of "spin out," which typically occurs in hard, cold, or wet boards. The screw’s cap-style head captures any mushrooming material, keeping it out of sight and ensuring a clean look.
Simpson Strong-Tie
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