The NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS) kicked off this week in Orlando, Fla., bringing together home building and multifamily professionals from around the world. Our editorial team scanned the show floor for new and innovative products of interest to the multifamily community. Here are our top product picks:
Acoustiblok
While many sound-abatement products rely on solid or absorbent materials, Acoustiblok does neither. Rather, the system’s thin, flexible, 1/8-inch-thick polymer sheets are stapled or screwed to the studs before drywall. As the product vibrates from sound, the acoustical energy is transformed into inaudible internal friction energy, the firm says. Acoustiblok doesn't increase wall thickness and allows easy access to the wall interior for plumbing and wiring maintenance. The recyclable material comes in rolls of 30-, 60-, and 350-foot lengths and can be easily cut with a box knife. The company also offers Acoustigrip Tape and Acousticaulk to seal the system. acoustiblok.com
Napoleon Condo Pack
The Napoleon Condo Pack is a self-contained heating and cooling unit for multifamily buildings that brings the unit indoors. Whereas many multifamily properties install HVAC systems outdoors, the individual condo packs can be placed inside each apartment unit. The module is pre-wired and pre-charged and slides in and out for easy installation. Condo Pack can be matched to the exterior-wall color for seamless integration. The product has a number of module options developers can choose from, including hydronic, high-efficiency, and electric. condopack.com
Schlage Custom Hardware
Schlage’s new Custom Hardware system allows homeowners and builders to customize the look, style, and locking mechanism of any given door in minutes without changing the inner core of the hardware. The Schlage Custom Hardware collection includes dozens of knobs, handles, and trim items in a wide variety of styles and finishes, including aged bronze, bright chrome, and matte black. Each knob, handle, and trim piece is fastened to the core hardware with a hidden screw. Hundreds of combinations are possible. A broad range of locking styles is available, including deadbolts, bed–bath locks, and nonturning handles. Matching deadbolts, handlesets, and electronics are also available. schlage.com
Reinvented Load Center
Leviton’s new load center and circuit breakers focus on ease of installation, enhanced safety, and a more intuitive interface for the homeowner. The Leviton Load Center’s plug-in system allows contractors to wire the system, stopping at rough-in, and inserting circuit breakers later to complete installation. Its design enables users to switch out branch circuit breakers with no rewiring required. Reset lockout technology to both GFCI and AFCI/GFCI circuit breakers exceeds UL standards. On the front end, circuit breakers are housed behind an optional clear door, which while aesthetically pleasing, has more functionality than just looks; circuit breaker LEDs communicate trip condition and type of fault. The product can be configured with 20, 30, or 42 load-center positions for multifamily buildings. leviton.com
Trex Signature Railing
Minimalist and modern, Trex’s new Signature Rod Rail brings sleek commercial design to the backyard or courtyard. The product line offers the view-optimizing aspects of cable railing with the strength of aluminum, for chic outdoor living. While the Signature Rod Rail is intended for residential applications, its commercially inspired design was facilitated by the company’s recent acquisition of SC Railing, the country’s leading manufacturer and supplier of custom architectural railings. With access to expanded engineering expertise and capabilities, Trex was able to quickly deliver the industrial style, durability and low-maintenance qualities sought by today’s builders and residents. Rod Rail spans long lengths for panoramic sightlines from decks, patios, balconies, and front steps. It comes in three color combinations: black/platinum, bronze/platinum, and black/black. trex.com
Mohawk Revwood Plus
Mohawk’s Revwood Plus wood-look laminate plank flooring is designed to be stain-, scratch-, and dent-resistant; pet- and kid-friendly; and waterproof. Besides facilitating easy installation of the floating planks, the firm's Uniclic MultiFit glueless locking system keeps dirt and spills on the surface for quick, easy cleanup. mohawkflooring.com
Mixing Fire and Water
Hearth Products Controls’ Water Feature Insert Series combines fire and water effects in a single outdoor pit whose core basin is made from durable polyurethane, with a choice of a copper or concrete bowl. The basin comes fully assembled and ready to install in any outdoor space and can be covered in stone, veneer, stucco, or any other kind of enclosure, including Hearth Product Controls’ 74-inch aluminum enclosure. Buyers may choose between a round bowl with 360-degree water flow or a four-scupper bowl with separate water flows. The fixture’s gas-operated fire ring is completely submerged in the surrounding water, with a patent-pending burner design that serves to protect the controls from the water. The system includes wall switches for fire, water, and LED light control. hpcfire.com
Industrial-Style Compact Surface
In collaboration with architect and designer Daniel Germani, Cosentino has introduced four new colors to its Dekton Industrial Collection. Suitable for countertops, flooring, stairs, and exterior façades or cladding, Dekton by Cosentino aims to capture the organic texture of weather-worn stone and metals. Orix mimics eroded cement in grays, blues, and greens, while Nilium blends minimal silver and white hues. Trilium gives the appearance of oxidized stainless steel, and Radium offers an acid-washed look. Smooth to the touch, the materials resist scratches, stains, UV rays, and temperature shocks, the company says. cosentino.com
Vinotemp Wine Cooler
Vinotemp launched a new series of wine coolers at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, co-locating with the NAHB International Builders’ Show. The Vinotemp Private Reserve Series offers a new level of functionality and style for storage of up to 25 cases of wine. The series includes patent-pending interior lighting with three different LED options: Soft White, Amber, and Vinotemp BioBlu. Designed for either built-in or freestanding use, the cooler dampens vibrations and cradles bottles so that labels are front-facing. Users can customize storage or serving temperatures between 41°F and 64°F. The Vinotemp Private Reserve is engineered for low noise and low energy consumption. vinotemp.com
A Screwless Door Frame
Trimlite’s Solution Series door frames and door lites, seven years in the making, are part of a one-piece, screwless door frame system designed to reduce installation time with no frame plugs necessary. The product's low-profile appearance directs the eye to the lites, and its clean lines are intended to integrate with modern, craftsman, or mid-century architectural styles. Trimlite’s Solution Series frame features a 3/16-inch Shaker-style profile and a compression seal to protect from water infiltration. ABS plastic frames are available in white or tan vertical wood patterns and can be paired with 11 energy-efficient glazing options. trimlite.com
