*******  Last week, in Chicago, the 21st annual Hanley Wood-sponsored Remodeling Show went down. Now, if you have been around these parts, for awhile, you know then about our relationship with, well, it. In 2011, we put together the 106 Mile Fund and then, a year later, we were admittedly responsible for the 106 Yard Fund. Click on those links if you feel you would like some context, but bottom line – we were not there this year.  This is notable, but only because I am coming at you today with something from … ha!, last year’s Show. ******* Last June (2012), I found myself on a radio show called My Fix It Up Life. It is skillfully hosted by the husband and wife team of Mark &amp; Theresa Clement. I was on with them to talk about that very same 106 Yard Fund.  (You can read a transcript of that interview here.) But it was in Baltimore, at the Show, that I had the opportunity to flip that script. I mean – if you’ve been to (almost) any construction- or design-oriented trade show in the last few years, then likely you have seen them – set up somewhere in plain view and broadcasting. The Show last year provided an opportunity to sit down with them and have them fire back at some questions. It just happened to take us (me and Barry) … a year to mix down the interview. (Yeah … animal-print pants out of control  … is how we roll.) Listen (on site) below: ******* Highlights Be warned that at the beginning of the interview, my man Barry had to do some heavy handed editing … trying to get a complete question in and a straight answer isn’t necessarily the easiest across their always-on and light-hearted banter.  Through “home improving home improving” to writing to video, then through (sometimes national) TV appearances, their “baby” was born. My Fix It Up Life, as they tell us, is “A Home Improvement Lifestyle Show.” It is for all people interested in the home. It is about “home and living in it” – the Journey, the Joy and Enjoying. Tips and Tricks. Saving time and saving money, but ultimately it is about helping folks “get what they want.” We talk kids, and involving the kids, how they met and perhaps where they are going. ******* According to their site: MyFixitUpLife airs in Mark &amp; Theresa’s home-city of Philadelphia on WCHE 1520am on Saturdays at 10am, and then nationally on Thursdays at noon on BlogTalkRadio. See more at: http://myfixituplife.com/DIY/on-air/#sthash.G8q2rnOV.dpuf. Mark I know is a learned carpenter. Similarly Theresa is accomplished designer. Recently, they were involved in those capacities with the pilot for the Cooking Channel show Save My Bakery. (“Our fingers are crossed.”) Mark is an accomplished instructor, in fact – he presented at JLC Live when we were in Providence earlier in the year. Both have written for many top tier outlets, including among others: This Old House, Old House Journal and Popular Mechanics. They are also deeply involved with neighborhood projects with Rebuilding Together. Of that relationship, they say – “They make an amazing difference for low-income homeowners, and the priority is for veterans, senior citizens, and single-parent families.”  ******* Thanks for taking the time guys and thanks to you for listening. You can follow along with Mark &amp; Theresa @ http://myfixituplife.com/; they recently celebrated its 4th Anniversary. Cheers, Happy Anniversary and thanks again. ~jb The post Behind the Scenes with My Fix It Up Life :: An Interview with Mark &amp; Theresa Clement appeared first on Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair ||  DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie.

******* <a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Mark_and_Theresa_-_My_Fix_It_Up_Life.png" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Last week, in Chicago, the 21st annual Hanley Wood-sponsored <a href="https://www.remodelingdeck.com/en/home.html" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Remodeling Show</a> went down. Now, if you have been around these parts, for awhile, you know then about our relationship with, well, it. In 2011, we put together <a href="http://webcontent-jb.com/106-miles-to-the-remodeling-show-2011/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">the 106 Mile Fund</a> and then, a year later, we were admittedly responsible for <a href="http://webcontent-jb.com/106-yards-remodeling-show-2012/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">the 106 Yard Fund</a>. Click on those links if you feel you would like some context, but bottom line – we were not there this year.  This is notable, but only because I am coming at you today with something from … ha!, last year’s Show. ******* <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MyFixItUpLife-2012-Remodeling-Show.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>Last June (2012), I found myself on a radio show called <a href="http://myfixituplife.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">My Fix It Up Life</a>. It is skillfully hosted by the husband and wife team of Mark &amp; Theresa Clement. I was on with them to talk about that very same <a href="http://webcontent-jb.com/building-moxie-the-remodeling-show-2012-106-yard-sponsors-press/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">106 Yard Fund</a>.  (You can read a transcript of that interview <a href="http://myfixituplife.com/DIY/2012/07/building-moxie-talks-wth-mark-theresa-about-family-and-remodeling/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.) But it was in Baltimore, at the Show, that I had the opportunity to flip that script. I mean – if you’ve been to (almost) any construction- or design-oriented trade show in the last few years, then likely you have seen them – set up somewhere in plain view and broadcasting. The Show last year provided an opportunity to sit down with them and have them fire back at some questions. It just happened to take us (me and Barry) … a year to mix down the interview. (Yeah … animal-print pants out of control  … is how we roll.) Listen (on site) below: ******* <h3>Highlights</h3> Be warned that at the beginning of the interview, my man <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/author/barry/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Barry</a> had to do some heavy handed editing … trying to get a complete question in and a straight answer isn’t necessarily the easiest across their always-on and light-hearted banter. <a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Mark-Theresa-JB-Barry.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Through “home improving home improving” to writing to video, then through (sometimes national) TV appearances, their “baby” was born. My Fix It Up Life, as they tell us, is “A Home Improvement Lifestyle Show.” It is for all people interested in the home. It is about “home and living in it” – the Journey, the Joy and Enjoying. Tips and Tricks. Saving time and saving money, but ultimately it is about helping folks “get what they want.” We talk kids, and involving the kids, how they met and perhaps where they are going. ******* <h4>According to their site:</h4> MyFixitUpLife airs in Mark &amp; Theresa’s home-city of Philadelphia on WCHE 1520am on Saturdays at 10am, and then nationally on Thursdays at noon on BlogTalkRadio. See more at: <a href="http://myfixituplife.com/DIY/on-air/#sthash.G8q2rnOV.dpuf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://myfixituplife.com/DIY/on-air/#sthash.G8q2rnOV.dpuf</a>. Mark I know is a learned carpenter. Similarly Theresa is accomplished designer. Recently, they were involved in those capacities with the pilot for the Cooking Channel show <a href="http://www.cookingchanneltv.com/shows/save-my-bakery.html" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Save My Bakery</a>. (“Our fingers are crossed.”) Mark is an accomplished instructor, in fact – he presented at <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/2013/03/jlc-live/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">JLC Live</a> when we were in Providence earlier in the year. Both have written for many top tier outlets, including among others: This Old House, Old House Journal and Popular Mechanics. They are also deeply involved with neighborhood projects with <a href="http://rebuildingtogether.org/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Rebuilding Together</a>. Of that relationship, they say – “They make an amazing difference for low-income homeowners, and the priority is for veterans, senior citizens, and single-parent families.” <a href="https://i2.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/mark-theresa-jb-my-fix-it-up-life.png" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> ******* Thanks for taking the time guys and thanks to you for listening. You can follow along with Mark &amp; Theresa @ <a href="http://myfixituplife.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://myfixituplife.com/</a>; they recently celebrated its 4th Anniversary. Cheers, Happy Anniversary and thanks again. ~jb The post <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com/my-fix-it-up-life-interview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Behind the Scenes with My Fix It Up Life :: An Interview with Mark &amp; Theresa Clement</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair || DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie</a>.

Behind the Scenes with My Fix It Up Life :: An Interview with Mark & Theresa Clement

*******  I think it is always good to remind you that I have a partner (for the lack of a better word) on this site.  His name is Barry and this is him here &gt;&gt; in our Media Kit. I mean – I wouldn’t blame you, though, if you didn’t know him. Barry has been pretty quiet the last 12 months or so, as he dove both feet into his real world coastal construction restoration business. Barry was with me on our adventures last October at the Remodeling Show in Baltimore.  And while I ran a full press schedule, Barry was able to assist by photographing and acting as engineer on several audio interviews. Only two of which he had been able to mix down.  In this post, I will finally deliver the 3rd – an interview with Wilsonart’s Mike Lallo, a Segment Manager in Home Center Segments. Wilsonart, and specifically Wilsonart HD, was a sponsor of our 106 Yard Fund, which ultimately brought Sean Lintow, Sr. to Baltimore for the Show.  The Panel Discussion: Looks for Less  I took part in an hour long panel discussion on the topic of Looks for Less. And while I promised (to a few), I really never had time to circle back and report on it … till now.  I mean – reminded of the uncomfortableness I experienced with presenting. Well, all through college, I was reluctant, but in the end, decided – really, what did I have to lose. With the charismatic Mike moderating, the panel also consisted of Remodeling Magazine’s Senior Editor Nina Patel (who I was actually acquainted with prior) and TV personality – Summer Baltzer. Summer’s credits include work on HGTV‘s Design on a Dime &amp; TLC’s Unhinged.  And truth – Summer is the first person I ever (knowingly) met that has been involved with a TV series.  While it was fun to learn that Summer lives in LA, and that see actually even happens to be Delta Burke’s goddaughter … it was equally as cool to learn that Summer is a working designer, and contractor, and that she actually really knows her sh*t.  While the discussion did have a rough outline (prepped for via a conference call), I think it is fair to say that, and especially as the audience got involved, she mostly steered our participation (and trust me – I didn’t mind).  The topic – “How do we, as Remodelers, provide Homeowners with hi-end looks for, well, less?” I felt comfortable, locked in as we discussed staged remodeling (tackling projects in a phased approach), the practical use of existing spaces, leveraging digital tools like Skype and Houzz. Even as we discussed working with specialty subs to maximize output and productivity, I felt good. But I got a lot more quiet as we moved into things like trends toward transitional design. And current opportunities to save with product selection. Here, I sat back (with everyone else), and got schooled … by Summer.  She was fun to watch.  And that was that … it was a blast. And while I’ll probably need to learn not to chew gum when speaking in public, I’d love to do something like it again. ******* Building Moxie with Mike Lallo from Wilsonart And anyways, back to our fearless moderator, Mike Lallo. He was not only the patient guide for our hour-long discussion, he was also busy throughout the entire Remodeling Show giving installer-oriented demos on the company’s decorative edging. Mike has been with Wilsonart for a few years (I wanna say 20). He has built an expertise in premium laminates and sinks, along with those edges, but … you learn quickly, as I did, he by nature is an educator.  Here we talk about the design and technology behind the products, and specifically the HD line. HD acted as both sponsor to Building Moxie at the Show, but also as the sponsor of the panel discussion. Among other things, we discuss his pet personal mission of eliminating laminates’ dreaded “brown line.” To Highlight: Mike tells us – HD differentiates in 3 ways: design, surface texture and performance. At the time we recorded this, there were 52 styles in the line, available in both matte and gloss finishes.  He also discusses the design and the installation of associated high performance edging. Listen below: *******  Quick Facts on Wilsonart HD: * Provides superior product/durability with AEON technology that is 3x more scratch resistant than other laminates. * Offers both homeowners and businesses many designs for traditional, transitional and contemporary spaces. * Leads the industry in sustainability – first to achieve Forest Stewardship (FSC) Council Chain of Custody Certification (Wilsonart Laminates contain 70% FSC Certified wood fibers). ******* That’s it; thanks for reading and listening. Thanks to Mike for taking the time and thanks to Wilsonart for the support. Cheers all and enjoy. ~jb All images via AdManJack (Jack Silverman) For more coverage on products appearing at the 2012 Remodeling Show, Product Round Up 1 &amp; Product Round Up 2. The post Revisiting the Panel Discussion “Looks for Less” &amp; an Interview with Mike Lallo from Wilsonart appeared first on Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair ||  DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie.

******* <a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Wilsonart-Booth-Remodeling-Show-distance.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> I think it is always good to remind you that I have a partner (for the lack of a better word) on this site.  His name is Barry and this is him here &gt;&gt; in <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/media-kit/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">our Media Kit</a>. I mean – I wouldn’t blame you, though, if you didn’t know him. Barry has been pretty quiet the last 12 months or so, as he dove both feet into his real world coastal construction restoration business. <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/author/barry/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Barry</a> was with me on our adventures last October at the <a href="https://www.remodelingdeck.com/en/home.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Remodeling Show</a> in Baltimore.  And while I ran a full press schedule, Barry was able to assist by photographing and acting as engineer on several audio interviews. Only two of which he had been able to mix down.  In this post, I will finally deliver the 3rd – an interview with Wilsonart’s Mike Lallo, a Segment Manager in Home Center Segments. Wilsonart, and specifically <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/dream-kitchens-real-budgets-wilsonart-hd/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Wilsonart HD</a>, was a sponsor of our <a href="http://webcontent-jb.com/106-yards-remodeling-show-2012/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">106 Yard Fund</a>, which ultimately <a href="http://webcontent-jb.com/and-the-winner-is-you-know-of-a-trip-to-the-remodeling-show/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">brought Sean Lintow, Sr. to Baltimore for the Show</a>. <a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Looks-for-Less-panel-after.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h3>The Panel Discussion: Looks for Less </h3> I took part in an hour long panel discussion on the topic of <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/2012/10/building-moxie-remodeling-show-wilsonart-looks-for-less/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Looks for Less</a>. And while I promised (to a few), I really never had time to circle back and report on it … till now. <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Panel_Learn_and_Earn.png" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> I mean – reminded of the uncomfortableness I experienced with presenting. Well, all through college, I was reluctant, but in the end, decided – really, what did I have to lose. With the charismatic Mike moderating, the panel also consisted of Remodeling Magazine’s Senior Editor <a href="http://twitter.com/SilverNina" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Nina Patel</a> (who I was actually acquainted with prior) and TV personality – <a href="http://www.summerbaltzer.com/ " rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Summer Baltzer</a>. Summer’s credits include work on HGTV‘s <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design_on_a_Dime" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Design on a Dime</a> &amp; TLC’s Unhinged.  And truth – Summer is the first person I ever (knowingly) met that has been involved with a TV series. <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Looks-for-Less-panel-laughing.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> While it was fun to learn that Summer lives in LA, and that see actually even happens to be <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delta_Burke" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Delta Burke</a>’s goddaughter … it was equally as cool to learn that Summer is a working designer, and contractor, and that she actually really knows her sh*t.  While the discussion did have a rough outline (prepped for via a conference call), I think it is fair to say that, and especially as the audience got involved, she mostly steered our participation (and trust me – I didn’t mind). <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/10-Tips-for-the-Looks-for-Less.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> The topic – “How do we, as Remodelers, provide Homeowners with hi-end looks for, well, less?” I felt comfortable, locked in as we discussed staged remodeling (tackling projects in a phased approach), the practical use of existing spaces, leveraging digital tools like Skype and <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/using-houzz-to-build-a-web-presence/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Houzz</a>. Even as we discussed working with specialty subs to maximize output and productivity, I felt good. But I got a lot more quiet as we moved into things like trends toward transitional design. And current opportunities to save with product selection. Here, I sat back (with everyone else), and got schooled … by Summer.  She was fun to watch. <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Looks-for-Less-panel.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> And that was that … it was a blast. And while I’ll probably need to learn not to chew gum when speaking in public, I’d love to do something like it again. ******* <h3>Building Moxie with Mike Lallo from Wilsonart</h3> And anyways, back to our fearless moderator, Mike Lallo. He was not only the patient guide for our hour-long discussion, he was also busy throughout the entire Remodeling Show giving installer-oriented demos on the company’s decorative edging. Mike has been with <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/dream-kitchens-real-budgets-wilsonart-hd/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wilsonart</a> for a few years (I wanna say 20). He has built an expertise in premium laminates and sinks, along with those edges, but … you learn quickly, as I did, he by nature is an educator. <a href="https://i2.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Mike-Lallo-Summer-Baltzer-JB-Bartkowiak.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Here we talk about the design and technology behind the products, and specifically the HD line. HD acted as both sponsor to Building Moxie at the Show, but also as the sponsor of the panel discussion. Among other things, we discuss his pet personal mission of eliminating laminates’ dreaded “brown line.” To Highlight: Mike tells us – HD differentiates in 3 ways: design, surface texture and performance. At the time we recorded this, there were 52 styles in the line, available in both matte and gloss finishes.  He also discusses the design and the installation of associated high performance edging. Listen below: ******* <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Wilsonart-HD-booth.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Quick Facts on Wilsonart HD: * Provides superior product/durability with AEON technology that is 3x more scratch resistant than other laminates. * Offers both homeowners and businesses many designs for traditional, transitional and contemporary spaces. * Leads the industry in sustainability – first to achieve Forest Stewardship (FSC) Council Chain of Custody Certification (Wilsonart Laminates contain 70% FSC Certified wood fibers). ******* That’s it; thanks for reading and listening. Thanks to Mike for taking the time and thanks to Wilsonart for the support. Cheers all and enjoy. ~jb All images via <a href="http://twitter.com/AdManJack" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">AdManJack</a> (Jack Silverman) For more coverage on <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/category/products/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">products</a> appearing at the 2012 Remodeling Show, <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/remodeling-show-10-products/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Product Round Up </a>1 &amp; <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/remodeling-show-product-roundup-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Product Round Up 2</a>. The post <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com/panel-discussion-looks-for-less-interview-with-mike-lallo-from-wilsonart/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Revisiting the Panel Discussion “Looks for Less” &amp; an Interview with Mike Lallo from Wilsonart</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair || DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie</a>.

Revisiting the Panel Discussion “Looks for Less” & an Interview with Mike Lallo from Wilsonart

Miriam Illions

******* Day 3 of the Remodeling Show, we were fortunate enough to spend part of the afternoon with Miriam Illions (pronounced “Millions” just minus the M) . . . of HomeTalk.com.  Never mind that Miriam is likely one of the sweetest, bestest, goodest people I know from the interwebs, she happens also to be a passionate, well-spoken representative of the HomeTalk brand.  That day, she was gracious enough to sit down with us for a candid (audio) interview. How to Build an Internet Community Miriam is Director of Community Development at the widely popular home-oriented social networking site.  She is also the sole Admin of their Facebook page, which … on last glimpse, has already pulled something like 482,538 Likes. (I know! – Nearly ½ a M.Illion(s)! &lt;&lt; Okay, not my best joke.) Pretty impressive, I’d say, especially for a team that consists of a single New York-based business development manager, a few designers and, well, Miriam.  Add to that a team of about 10 developers, who are currently working on such things as a soon-to-be-released iPhone app. As Miriam points out, focus within this group is on optimizing the platform. And making it the best possible place for people.  The goal – to have users not only come and visit, but to stay. They want visitors to become a part of the rich community. Her words, “To have them really make it part of their day to day lives.”  This seems to be her primary mission and perhaps her biggest challenge. And on that, I’ll leave you with a question that she asked, well, us – “What do you, in your life, use every single day . . . that is not a device?”  It only took Barry &amp; I about ten days … but BMoxie‘s official response = coffee. ******* Audio Interview with Miriam from Hometalk Listen in as M.Illions and I discuss where HomeTalk is and where it is going, what they are doing to better engage the Pro user + important tips that might help you get “featured” on her Facebook page.  If you listen closely, you might even hear valuable info that could help you if are a Facebook Admin, anywhere. ******* – To find out more about HomeTalk &gt;&gt; http://www.hometalk.com/about – Find them on Facebook &gt;&gt; https://www.facebook.com/Hometalk . . . and don’t forget to hop on and look Miriam up.  Cheers  &gt;&gt; http://www.hometalk.com/miriamillions  ******* HomeTalk — Where people share and help with everything home and garden. If you were wondering to maintain that type of follow-ship – Miriam posts 7 posts a day between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. She balances that with a combination of photos and other link posts.  Miriam says, “I don’t think brands should just copy that; I think they need to know their audiences and feel out what works.” For more on Building Moxie’s encounters and collaborations with HomeTalk through the years, see this link, here. Thanks for reading, have fun and be safe. ~jb The post Building Moxie with Miriam Illions :: An Interview with HomeTalk’s HomeTalker Numero Uno appeared first on Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair ||  DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie.

******* <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/HomeTalk-Facebook-Logo.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>Day 3 of the <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/remodeling-show-10-products/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Remodeling Show</a>, we were fortunate enough to spend part of the afternoon with Miriam Illions (pronounced “Millions” just minus the M) . . . of <a href="http://HomeTalk.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HomeTalk.com</a>.  Never mind that Miriam is likely one of the sweetest, bestest, goodest people I know from the interwebs, she happens also to be a passionate, well-spoken representative of the <a href="http://www.hometalk.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">HomeTalk</a> brand.  That day, she was gracious enough to sit down with us for a candid (audio) interview. <h3>How to Build an Internet Community</h3> Miriam is Director of Community Development at the widely popular home-oriented social networking site.  She is also the sole Admin of their Facebook page, which … on last glimpse, has already pulled something like 482,538 Likes. (I know! – Nearly ½ a M.Illion(s)! &lt;&lt; Okay, not my best joke.) Pretty impressive, I’d say, especially for a team that consists of a single New York-based business development manager, a few designers and, well, Miriam.  Add to that a team of about 10 developers, who are currently working on such things as a soon-to-be-released iPhone app. As Miriam points out, focus within this group is on optimizing the platform. And making it the best possible place for people.  The goal – to have users not only come and visit, but to stay. They want visitors to become a part of the rich community. Her words, “To have them really make it part of their day to day lives.”  This seems to be her primary mission and perhaps her biggest challenge. And on that, I’ll leave you with a question that she asked, well, us – “What do you, in your life, use every single day . . . that is not a device?”  It only took Barry &amp; I about ten days … but BMoxie‘s official response = coffee. ******* <h3>Audio Interview with Miriam from Hometalk</h3> Listen in as M.Illions and I discuss where HomeTalk is and where it is going, what they are doing to better engage the Pro user + important tips that might help you get “featured” on her Facebook page.  If you listen closely, you might even hear valuable info that could help you if are a Facebook Admin, anywhere. ******* – To find out more about HomeTalk &gt;&gt; <a href="http://www.hometalk.com/about" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.hometalk.com/about</a> – Find them on Facebook &gt;&gt; <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hometalk" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/Hometalk</a> . . . and don’t forget to hop on and look Miriam up.  Cheers  &gt;&gt; <a href="http://www.hometalk.com/miriamillions" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.hometalk.com/miriamillions</a> <a href="https://i2.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Miriam-Illions-Hometalk.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> ******* HomeTalk — Where people share and help with everything home and garden. If you were wondering to maintain that type of follow-ship – Miriam posts 7 posts a day between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. She balances that with a combination of photos and other link posts.  Miriam says, “I don’t think brands should just copy that; I think they need to know their audiences and feel out what works.” For more on Building Moxie’s encounters and collaborations with HomeTalk through the years, see this link, <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/?s=Hometalk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. Thanks for reading, have fun and be safe. ~jb The post <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com/interview-milliam-illions-hometalk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Building Moxie with Miriam Illions :: An Interview with HomeTalk’s HomeTalker Numero Uno</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair || DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie</a>.

Building Moxie with Miriam Illions :: An Interview with HomeTalk’s HomeTalker Numero Uno

*******  I made one stipulation of Sean Lintow, Sr, as the grand royale champion Winner of our 106 Yard Fund.  And . . . “What’s that?” you might ask. Well, Sean happened to … offer his gracious Remodeling Show Recap, giving thanks to the Fund’s sponsors and the judges . . . it does quite a little bit to explain it all.  I’m proud to say that he made the trip to Baltimore for this year’s Remodeling Show and Deck Expo as Building Moxie’s Chosen One :: Year 2012. Oh Yeah! One stipulation, and since we recently dropped on Barry’s recording set-up, Sean would have to sit down and grant us a candid interview.  And here it is.  This is the first of four we did at this year’s Remodeling Show. An Audio Interview with Sean Lintow of The HTRC Here Sean and I, Barry too, discuss Sean’s business and blog (one of my personal favorites).  With that, while Sean is known by many as @SLSConstruction, it is actually the steady expansion of his service offerings that intrigued us.   While you could certainly look at his blog the Homeowner’s and Trades Resource Center (The HTRC for short) as one of these, it is his move more specifically to offer a formal green solutions suite that really piqued our interest.  Passionate about smart building, this led to Sean’s creation of Alabama Green Building Solutions in 2010. Let’s listen to see where he plans to take it and Enjoy! ~jb *******  ******* To learn more about Building Moxie’s Chosen One – Sean Lintow Sr.  HTRC – http://blog.sls-construction.com/ SLS Construction – http://sls-construction.com/  For a sample of some of Sean’s fantastic articles with us, his author’s page, here. His list of articles for Building Moxie include:  Installing a Bath Fan Timer Energy Audit Cost &amp; More recently – Tips for Managing Masonry Dust  Image at top John Bartkowiak Jr. with Sean Lintow Sr. The post Building Moxie with the HTRC :: An Interview with Sean Lintow Sr. of SLS Construction appeared first on Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair ||  DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie.

******* <a href="https://i2.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/John-Bartkowiak-Sean-Lintow.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> I made one stipulation of Sean Lintow, Sr, as the grand royale champion <a href="http://webcontent-jb.com/and-the-winner-is-you-know-of-a-trip-to-the-remodeling-show/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Winner of our 106 Yard Fund</a>.  And . . . “What’s that?” you might ask. Well, Sean happened to … offer his gracious <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/remodeling-show-recap-sean-lintow-sr/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Remodeling Show Recap</a>, giving thanks to the Fund’s sponsors and the judges . . . it does quite a little bit to explain it all.  I’m proud to say that he made the trip to Baltimore for this year’s <a href="https://www.remodelingdeck.com/en/home.html" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Remodeling Show</a> and <a href="https://www.remodelingdeck.com/en/home.html" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Deck Expo</a> as Building Moxie’s Chosen One :: Year 2012. Oh Yeah! One stipulation, and since we recently dropped on <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/tag/the-sounding-board/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Barry’s recording set-up</a>, Sean would have to sit down and grant us a candid interview.  And here it is.  This is the first of four we did at this year’s Remodeling Show. <h3>An Audio Interview with Sean Lintow of The HTRC</h3> Here Sean and I, <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/author/barry/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Barry</a> too, discuss Sean’s business and blog (one of my personal favorites).  With that, while Sean is known by many as <a href="http://twitter.com/SLSConstruction" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">@SLSConstruction</a>, it is actually the steady expansion of his service offerings that intrigued us.   While you could certainly look at his blog the Homeowner’s and Trades Resource Center (<a href="http://thehtrc.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The HTRC</a> for short) as one of these, it is his move more specifically to offer a formal green solutions suite that really piqued our interest.  Passionate about smart building, this led to Sean’s creation of Alabama Green Building Solutions in 2010. Let’s listen to see where he plans to take it and Enjoy! ~jb ******* <a href="https://i2.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/SLS-Construction.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> ******* <h4>To learn more about Building Moxie’s Chosen One – Sean Lintow Sr.</h4> <ul> <li>HTRC – <a href="http://blog.sls-construction.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://blog.sls-construction.com/</a></li> <li>SLS Construction – <a href="http://sls-construction.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://sls-construction.com/</a></li> </ul> For a sample of some of Sean’s fantastic articles with us, his author’s page, <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/author/sls-construction-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. His list of articles for Building Moxie include: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/installing-a-bathroom-fan-timer/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Installing a Bath Fan Timer</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/energy-audits-costs-prices/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Energy Audit Cost</a></li> <li>&amp; More recently – <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/silica-dust-standard-tips/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tips for Managing Masonry Dust</a></li> </ul> Image at top John Bartkowiak Jr. with Sean Lintow Sr. The post <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com/interview-sean-lintow-sr-slsconstruction/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Building Moxie with the HTRC :: An Interview with Sean Lintow Sr. of SLS Construction</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair || DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie</a>.

Building Moxie with the HTRC :: An Interview with Sean Lintow Sr. of SLS Construction

Paul Treanor

As I wind down on my coverage on the 2011 Remodeling Show, it could not be complete without a little love for Hanley Wood. More specifically, Conference Manager, Paul Treanor. Not two weeks after I launched our fundraising efforts, I found myself on a conference call with Paul and his team. We agreed early on that his direct involvement would nullify our efforts. This call did however demonstrate his unequivocal support for our endeavor. In fact, it was this type of backing (from Paul and others), which ended up being so valuable. Far more valuable than any type of direct monetary contribution. (Paul did ultimately “comp” our passes for the Show.) What I found from “working” with Paul was that he simply has a head/an eye for flair (right down to his shoes). And I guess you’d have to know how to make a splash to be any sort of effective event organizer. While I was unable to implement most of the fundraising initiatives we spit-balled, a sponsored night on the town did in fact come to being. (Shout to Crestview Doors and Crown Point Cabinetry on this – Thanks.) A handful of the presenters and speakers I spoke with throughout the event had high marks and raves for Paul. Barry and I witnessed his “wild fits of calmness.” And I marveled at the thought of all that must go on to pull off a week of conference classes, coordinating with 250+ exhibitors. All while hosting thousands of show-floor guests (though Paul does not take credit for this). Here at the end of four action-packed days, Barry and I caught up with Paul for a quick interview. And while Paul will likely be mortified by the scratchiness in his voice here, we felt instead that it shows just how hard this guy worked to pull off this portion of the Show.  (We enjoyed ourselves.) Our Interview with Paul Treanor In the interview, we discuss the Show, the highs, and what to look for in 2012 Remodeling Show. Yes, as it returns to Baltimore next year. Listen in below. ******* Enjoy and back with one last post from the 2011 Remodeling Show soon. For more interview with industry personalities, see our category called, well, Interviews. ~jb The post Remodeling Show: An Audio Interview with Conference Manager Paul Treanor appeared first on Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair ||  DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie.

<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/remodeling-show-deck-expo-mcCormick-Place.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>As I wind down on my coverage on the <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/2011-remodeling-show-product-round-up-1/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">2011 Remodeling Show</a>, it could not be complete without a little love for Hanley Wood. More specifically, Conference Manager, Paul Treanor. Not two weeks after I launched <a href="http://webcontent-jb.com/106-miles-to-the-remodeling-show-2011/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">our fundraising efforts</a>, I found myself on a conference call with Paul and his team. We agreed early on that his direct involvement would nullify our efforts. This call did however demonstrate his unequivocal support for our endeavor. In fact, it was this type of backing (from Paul <a href="http://webcontent-jb.com/how-to-run-an-online-fundraiser/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">and others</a>), which ended up being so valuable. Far more valuable than any type of direct monetary contribution. (Paul did ultimately “comp” our passes for the Show.) <a href="https://i2.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/paul-treanor-with-unidentified-attendee.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>What I found from “working” with Paul was that he simply has a head/an eye for flair (right down to his shoes). And I guess you’d have to know how to make a splash to be any sort of effective event organizer. While I was unable to implement most of the fundraising initiatives we spit-balled, a sponsored night on the town did in fact come to being. (Shout to <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/update-door-lite-kit/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Crestview Doors</a> and <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/custom-cabinetry-crown-point-cabinetry/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Crown Point Cabinetry</a> on this – Thanks.) <a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/paul-treanor-snake-skin-shoes.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>A handful of the presenters and speakers I spoke with throughout the event had high marks and raves for Paul. Barry and I witnessed his “wild fits of calmness.” And I marveled at the thought of all that must go on to pull off a week of conference classes, coordinating with 250+ exhibitors. All while hosting thousands of show-floor guests (though Paul does not take credit for this). Here at the end of four action-packed days, Barry and I caught up with Paul for a quick interview. And while Paul will likely be mortified by the scratchiness in his voice here, we felt instead that it shows just how hard this guy worked to pull off this portion of the Show.  (We enjoyed ourselves.) <h3>Our Interview with Paul Treanor</h3> In the interview, we discuss the Show, the highs, and what to look for in <a href="http://www.remodelingshow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">2012 Remodeling Show</a>. Yes, as it returns to Baltimore next year. Listen in below. ******* Enjoy and back with one last post from the <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/building-moxie-remodeling-show-2011-product-report-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">2011 Remodeling Show</a> soon. For more interview with industry personalities, see our category called, well, <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/tag/interview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Interviews</a>. ~jb The post <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com/interview-paul-treanor-remodeling-show/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Remodeling Show: An Audio Interview with Conference Manager Paul Treanor</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair || DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie</a>.

Remodeling Show: An Audio Interview with Conference Manager Paul Treanor

Chris Wright

******* One mainstay staple at the Remodeling Show (at least for me) has been Christopher Wright of Indianapolis-based Wrightworks. He is also a multiple award-winning, “designer-friendly” remodeler.  A friend. I initially met Chris through the circles of Remodel Crazy (a construction forum for pros and homeowners).  His participation as a moderator for RC was one of the things we discussed briefly at last year’s show.  And it’s funny . . . I happened to catch up with him this year in just about the same exact spot as last . . . at the NARI National booth.  (That’s the National Association of the Remodeling Industry … and if you were wondering, the recommended pronunciation sounds like “hairy.” – I think.)  He is president of the Indianapolis chapter. Listen in (Here, Chris talks about the benefits of association as well as the power of networking.  Note:  This was our first experience with recording in a hall setting but still an outstanding interview): I was fortunate enough (though it was early Thursday) to catch Chris’ presentation . . . “A Design/Build Twist: How to Find and Cultivate Relationships with Outside Design Firms” and  imho — he crushed it. A natural speaker Chris opened by talking about his sincere and humble passion for building things. But drawing on personal history both with FedEx and on his martial arts background, he talked of the common perceptions both sides face . . . how designers see contractors and how contractors see designers. But he says, and targeted to those of us sitting in the audience, “You must empty the cup.” He talked of contractor/designer relationship as a long term relationship and ripe with opportunity. He talked of respecting each others efforts and leveraging reputation to create situations where all involved succeed.  Like any relationship – you must, as he said, nurture it. On the final day, and a just moments before we headed out, Barry &amp; I caught up with Chris in the slightly quieter confines of “command central” — the press room space. Listen in (Here, Chris shares his thoughts on the Show and talks about the value of meeting people … you know — in person): Interview with Chris Wright Please check Chris’ site at http://www.wrightworks.net &lt;&lt; probably one of the more fluently designed small biz sites I’ve seen.  He can be found on Twitter @ChrWright &amp; on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/WrightWorks. Thanks out to Barry for his audio efforts and to Chris for taking the time.  I’m out on Chris’ million dollar secret . . . for remodeling (business) success.  Shot from my belt buckle cam, enjoy. ~jb ******* ******* The post Remodeling Show Regular :: an Interview with Chris Wright of WrightWorks appeared first on Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair ||  DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie.

******* One mainstay staple at the <a href="http://remodelingshow.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Remodeling Show</a> (at least for me) has been Christopher Wright of Indianapolis-based <a href="http://www.wrightworks.net/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Wrightworks</a>. He is also a multiple <a href="http://www.wrightworks.net/about/awards" rel="nofollow nofollow noopener" target="_blank">award-winning</a>, “designer-friendly” remodeler.  A friend. <a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Chris-Wright-Barry-Morgan-at-the-Remodeling-Show.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>I initially met Chris through the circles of Remodel Crazy (a construction forum for pros and homeowners).  His participation as a moderator for RC was one of the things we discussed briefly at <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/building-moxie-goes-to-the-remodeling-show/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">last year’s show</a>.  And it’s funny . . . I happened to catch up with him this year in just about the same exact spot as last . . . at the <a href="http://www.nari.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">NARI National</a> booth.  (That’s the National Association of the Remodeling Industry … and if you were wondering, the recommended pronunciation sounds like “hairy.” – I think.)  He is president of the Indianapolis chapter. Listen in (Here, Chris talks about the benefits of association as well as the power of networking.  Note:  This was our first experience with recording in a hall setting but still an outstanding interview): I was fortunate enough (though it was early Thursday) to catch Chris’ presentation . . . “A Design/Build Twist: How to Find and Cultivate Relationships with Outside Design Firms” and  imho — he crushed it. <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Chris-Wright-Brothers-at-Building-Moxie-outing.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>A natural speaker Chris opened by talking about his sincere and humble passion for building things. But drawing on personal history both with FedEx and on his martial arts background, he talked of the common perceptions both sides face . . . how designers see contractors and how contractors see designers. But he says, and targeted to those of us sitting in the audience, “You must empty the cup.” He talked of contractor/designer relationship as a long term relationship and ripe with opportunity. He talked of respecting each others efforts and leveraging reputation to create situations where all involved succeed.  Like any relationship – you must, as he said, nurture it. On the final day, and a just moments before we headed out, Barry &amp; I caught up with Chris in the slightly quieter confines of “command central” — the press room space. Listen in (Here, Chris shares his thoughts on the Show and talks about the value of meeting people … you know — in person): <h3>Interview with Chris Wright</h3> Please check Chris’ site at <a href="http://www.wrightworks.net" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.wrightworks.net</a> &lt;&lt; probably one of the more fluently designed small biz sites I’ve seen.  He can be found on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/ChrWright" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">@ChrWright</a> &amp; on Facebook @ <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WrightWorks" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/WrightWorks</a>. Thanks out to Barry for his audio efforts and to Chris for taking the time.  I’m out on Chris’ million dollar secret . . . for remodeling (business) success.  Shot from my belt buckle cam, enjoy. ~jb ******* ******* The post <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com/remodeler-chris-wright-at-the-remodeling-show/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Remodeling Show Regular :: an Interview with Chris Wright of WrightWorks</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair || DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie</a>.

Remodeling Show Regular :: an Interview with Chris Wright of WrightWorks

******* Crown Point Cabinetry . . . Where do I start?  Hmmmm . . . maybe this?  Thirty years in business — a 2nd-generation, family-owned custom cabinet maker out of southern New Hampshire . . . Claremont.  Maybe this?   Direct to architects, designers, remodelers, builders – no middle . . . persons.  Hmmm . . . ? Or maybe their beautifully appointed cabinetry, their easy going and cool CEO Brian Stowell, or maybe their 18 in-house designers . . . like Bob Davis and Vanessa Perry — the “dynamic duo” holding down the booth at the Remodeling Show earlier this month.  Maybe I start this story telling you about their Remodeler Appreciation Program.  Or . . . ? How about I start with this . . . “Fine Quality Custom Cabinetry Handcrafted for Your Entire Home.”  That’s exactly how it reads in Crown Point Cabinetry’s own tagline.  “Kitchens, Baths, Laundries, Offices, Home Bars” . . . *breath* . . . “Islands, Pantries, Breakfast Nooks, Closets, Built-Ins.”  They build every cabinet to the exact specifications you provide for your project, and really anything you could imagine . . . in terms of cabinetry.  True Custom. Now a Site Visit &amp; a Story: A few weeks back, I had the opportunity to join the team of Stacey Nachajski, PR ambassador for CP, and the company’s resident tech guru and photographer – Jeff Stowell (Brian’s brother, yep — who also doubles as the company’s Creative Director).  They were on location just up the road from me in Hunt Valley, MD for a Crown Point photo shoot. After getting some background on the shoot, and some of the niceties associated with a first meeting out of the way, I had the opportunity to then tour, with the homeowner, the still newishly-completed house.   A gorgeous and expansive structure impeccably detailed from the stone work and multiple weather vanes in the front, to the equally impressive ipe decking and large patio in the back.  Cabinets of Any Kind in Any Room But it was just about when we made it to the second-floor sitting room when I began to understand.  And as we moved across the 20×20 room at the top of stairs, from an eight-person window seat (bookended with bookshelves and wrapped in cherry trim . . . beautiful), he points to the bookshelf in a large nook . . . . He says, “This is what I mean – construction was underway when I called up my designer . . . .” Let me point out that this homeowner had already pretty much had his entire house on order.  From Crown Point — a bank of cherry kitchen cabinets (including a bar), multiple closets, a laundry, and by my count at least eight bathroom vanities.  Continuing in his words, “…I said – ‘Hey, I’ve got some blank space here.  What can we do with it . . . ?  And like a day later — they had some ideas . . . .’” The homeowner from the Hunt Valley had rooms featuring cabinets in tiger maple, cherry, knotty pine (actually worked really well in his clubbed basement bath), and bird’s eye maple — a wood which Brian told me later prices out at about $100 a foot (it is hand-selected).  These were just the species I could identify in the time between wowing over the true 4/4 (that’s one inch) drawer faces, and hearing the high notes of client satisfaction, which . . . were almost off the meter. For him, it was the little things and being able to work closely with a single designer throughout the process.  Now, here . . . he had a custom-designed, darkly-stained and wholly unique bookcase that ended up filling a space which would have otherwise been nothing more than a void in his floor plan.  Impressive. Now for Some of the Whys with Crown Point This homeowner focused on and carried a Shaker style throughout.  Shaker — a classic, with simplified lines, is one of the company’s bread and butter(s)… they also offer Arts &amp; Crafts, Early American, Victorian and Transition styles . . . or at least these are the baselines as listed on their website.  The company’s catalog boasts a total of 58 door styles.  (And just try ripping through them here. Go ahead; it’s fun!) Wood Species Wood Species? you ask.  Well  — twelve option in what they call a “Standard Line”, eight in “Vintage” – antique options coming from, as the website puts it, “. . . structures having been cataloged for demolition. Expert eyes scour the buildings, and those structures deemed acceptable are carefully taken apart and brought to the lumber mill. The wood is cut into wide planks, which are then kiln-dried, sized, and carefully graded.“  (To hear more about Crown Point‘s connection with wide plank salvaged products, here &gt;&gt; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_rrkB3gfzU.)  They even have sexy “exotics” to choose from.  Zebrawood, as I learned from Shannon at McIlvain, is likely the most rare, read: expensive, wood on the planet.  And CP can get it. Finishes Early on though, Stacey highlighted the finishing process for me.  Finishes feature Farrow &amp; Ball and/or milk paint (the original and “eco” paint) and really, again, almost any configuration of stain, distressing, or glazing . . . etc. is possible. Hardware And as I type, ‘every order can completed with coordinating hardware’ — it occurs to me that maybe these are less like cabinets and more like furniture.  In fact, when asked about shipping and availability, CEO Brian says, “Shipments are blanket-wrapped, like furniture, and delivered direct to the job site.  While we have a former Crown Point employee handling all of regional shipping, over a larger footprint we use a national carrier.” ******* What the Pros Say OK, OK . . . maybe I am biased in my new found appreciation of Crown Point, because they generously helped sponsor Barry and I with our trip to the Remodeling Show.  For this, of course, I am thankful, grateful and willing to write.   And maybe my words here aren’t good enough, so let’s try this instead . . . the words from a few others:  Speaking on Leah Thayer’s Daily5Remodel, award-winning remodeler Chris Wright says: “They’ve put together a business model that hits me right where I live. Their quality is outstanding, but that’s the starting point. They sell direct to me, outside of normal channels of distribution (showrooms, distributors, etc.). …” “Before fabrication, they also construct and send me a complete mini-cabinet with door and drawer in the wood and finish selected so that the end client can see what their cabinets will look like, including hardware.” “As competitive as this environment is, for vendors and contractors, I think you have to be excellent across the board to succeed. Excellent product. Excellent service (way beyond the basics). Most of all, excellent at communicating and connecting with your ideal market.” A Crown Point Factory Tour BMoxie poster, Todd Vendituoli had the opportunity to tour CP’s facility recently –  http://thebuildingblox.blogspot.com/2011/08/visit-with-crown-point-cabinetry.html.  Todd says:  “(The factory) is cleaner than some people’s homes that I have seen. The facility is really state of the art from the initial design work that they do with their clients to the finished product.” . . . “Cabinet design, woods, colors and hardware have been decided and measurements have been taken, the design is worked up on a computer. From here the dimensions can and do go to all of the people and machines in the factory that will be making the individual parts and assembling them!” “Then once the style has been picked out and there are so many choices, a mock-up is made for your approval.  This enables you to see the wood, colors/stains and hardware that you have chosen in your potential project before all of the cabinets have been made! I am assuming that this service is available for various projects and it would be best to check with Crown Point for the pricing and availability. They would love to help you.” Now back to me:  While the company has been known traditionally both for quality and their unique selling model, they are quite nimble and innovative.  Again with Leah Thayer, she recently featured the company’s Linea SystemTM.   Leah characterizes it as a “kitchen assistant.”  And I was able to see it firsthand, included in the display at the Remodeling Show.  Coolness. Crown Point is Social Their approach to marketing too, and most specifically social media, is forward thinking.  New friend, Stacey has the makings of a social media superstar. The company’s YouTube channel is a valuable source of information, and a powerful selling tool, but fun too.  Stacey is proud of the updates she is doing with Edson Project.  This series is currently tracking a couple in nearby Cornish, NH as they renovate the kitchen in 1870s Cape using, of course, Crown Point cabinets.  Innovative. Stacey holds down the company’s blog too. Named Wood Shavings, one series she recently started toying with is called Crown Point Critters, and it seems super fun. Is it Love or Custom Cabinetry? I say check out CP for yourself to find out  For me – I’d say the 2011 Remodeling Show simply would have not been the same without them.  And in my time, I spied a fun and friendly corporate culture; a glimpse at 88 folks working at a company in southern New Hampshire . . . doing what they love.  And if love translates to cabinets, I’d say it’s probably right here.  Almost everyone that I spoke with at the Show, and as I told of our connection, I heard — “I know them.”  The admiration for Crown Point seemed pretty pre-existent; something that made our job of spreading the good word … just that much easier. ******* Thanks for reading and Thank You CP!  We are out with a brief audio clip, a picture of a tee shirt and back again soon with more stuff from the Remodeling Show.  Cheers. ~jb ******* Audio Interview with Brian Stowell from Crown Point  A visit with Brian Stowell of Crown Point Cabinetry at the 2011 Remodeling Show  — 2 minutes 28 seconds *Note on the Audio:  The interview here with Brian Stowell occurred just minutes before we left the Remodeling Show behind for 2011.  It features Brian’s thoughts on the Show.  It was recorded, edited and intro-ed by Barry Morgan.  For more from us on Cabinetry, please see our category called, well, Cabinetry. ~jb  The post Inside Custom Cabinetry :: Crown Point Cabinetry a Unique Proposition for Pros appeared first on Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair ||  DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie.

******* <a href="http://www.crown-point.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Crown Point Cabinetry</a> . . . Where do I start? <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Crown-Point-Prairie-vertical-Linea-System-d5R.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Hmmmm . . . maybe this?  Thirty years in business — a 2nd-generation, family-owned custom cabinet maker out of southern New Hampshire . . . Claremont.  Maybe this?   Direct to architects, designers, remodelers, builders – no middle . . . persons.  Hmmm . . . ? Or maybe their beautifully appointed cabinetry, their easy going and cool CEO Brian Stowell, or maybe their 18 in-house designers . . . like Bob Davis and Vanessa Perry — the “dynamic duo” holding down the booth at the <a href="http://www.remodelingshow.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Remodeling Show</a> earlier this month.  Maybe I start this story telling you about their <a href="http://www.crown-point.com/remodeler-appreciation-program.html" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Remodeler Appreciation Program</a>.  Or . . . ? <h3>How about I start with this . . .</h3> “Fine Quality Custom Cabinetry Handcrafted for Your Entire Home.” That’s exactly how it reads in Crown Point Cabinetry’s own tagline.  “Kitchens, Baths, Laundries, Offices, Home Bars” . . . *breath* . . . “Islands, Pantries, Breakfast Nooks, Closets, Built-Ins.”  They build every cabinet to the exact specifications you provide for your project, and really anything you could imagine . . . in terms of cabinetry.  True Custom. <h4>Now a Site Visit &amp; a Story:</h4> A few weeks back, I had the opportunity to join the team of Stacey Nachajski, PR ambassador for CP, and the company’s resident tech guru and photographer – Jeff Stowell (Brian’s brother, yep — who also doubles as the company’s Creative Director).  They were on location just up the road from me in Hunt Valley, MD for a Crown Point photo shoot. After getting some background on the shoot, and some of the niceties associated with a first meeting out of the way, I had the opportunity to then tour, with the homeowner, the still newishly-completed house.   A gorgeous and expansive structure impeccably detailed from the stone work and multiple weather vanes in the front, to the equally impressive ipe decking and large patio in the back. <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Antique-Hutch-HeartPine-from-Crown-Point.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h5>Cabinets of Any Kind in Any Room</h5> But it was just about when we made it to the second-floor sitting room when I began to understand.  And as we moved across the 20×20 room at the top of stairs, from an eight-person window seat (bookended with bookshelves and wrapped in cherry trim . . . beautiful), he points to the bookshelf in a large nook . . . . He says, “This is what I mean – construction was underway when I called up my designer . . . .” Let me point out that this homeowner had already pretty much had his entire house on order.  From Crown Point — a bank of cherry kitchen cabinets (including a bar), multiple closets, a laundry, and by my count at least eight bathroom vanities.  Continuing in his words, “…I said – ‘Hey, I’ve got some blank space here.  What can we do with it . . . ?  And like a day later — they had some ideas . . . .’” The homeowner from the Hunt Valley had rooms featuring cabinets in tiger maple, cherry, knotty pine (actually worked really well in his clubbed basement bath), and bird’s eye maple — a wood which Brian told me later prices out at about $100 a foot (it is hand-selected).  These were just the species I could identify in the time between wowing over the true 4/4 (that’s one inch) drawer faces, and hearing the high notes of client satisfaction, which . . . were almost off the meter. For him, it was the little things and being able to work closely with a single designer throughout the process.  Now, here . . . he had a custom-designed, darkly-stained and wholly unique bookcase that ended up filling a space which would have otherwise been nothing more than a void in his floor plan.  Impressive. <h3>Now for Some of the Whys with Crown Point</h3> This homeowner focused on and carried a Shaker style throughout.  Shaker — a classic, with simplified lines, is one of the company’s bread and butter(s)… they also offer Arts &amp; Crafts, Early American, Victorian and Transition styles . . . or at least these are the baselines as listed on their website.  The company’s catalog boasts a total of 58 door styles.  (And just try ripping through them <a href="http://www.crown-point.com/door-styles/door-styles.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. Go ahead; it’s fun!) <h5>Wood Species</h5> <a href="http://www.crown-point.com/custom-cabinet-wood-species.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Wood Species</a>? you ask.  Well  — twelve option in what they call a “Standard Line”, eight in “Vintage” – antique options coming from, as the website puts it, “. . . structures having been cataloged for demolition. Expert eyes scour the buildings, and those structures deemed acceptable are carefully taken apart and brought to the lumber mill. The wood is cut into wide planks, which are then kiln-dried, sized, and carefully graded.“  (To hear more about Crown Point‘s connection with wide plank salvaged products, here &gt;&gt; <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_rrkB3gfzU&amp;feature=colike" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_rrkB3gfzU</a>.)  They even have sexy “exotics” to choose from.  Zebrawood, as I learned from <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/understanding-lumber-grading/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Shannon at McIlvain</a>, is likely the most rare, read: expensive, wood on the planet.  And CP can get it. <h5>Finishes</h5> Early on though, Stacey highlighted the finishing process for me.  Finishes feature <a href="http://www.crown-point.com/finishes/farrow-and-ball/farrow-and-ball.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Farrow &amp; Ball</a> and/or milk paint (the original and “eco” paint) and really, again, almost any configuration of stain, distressing, or glazing . . . etc. is possible. <h5>Hardware</h5> And as I type, ‘every order can completed with <a href="http://www.crown-point.com/Hardware/hdwboardchoices.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">coordinating hardware</a>’ — it occurs to me that maybe these are less like cabinets and more like furniture.  In fact, when asked about shipping and availability, CEO Brian says, “Shipments are blanket-wrapped, like furniture, and delivered direct to the job site.  While we have a former Crown Point employee handling all of regional shipping, over a larger footprint we use a national carrier.” ******* <h4>What the Pros Say</h4> OK, OK . . . maybe I am biased in my new found appreciation of Crown Point, because they generously helped sponsor Barry and I with our trip to the Remodeling Show.  For this, of course, I am thankful, grateful and willing to write.   And maybe my words here aren’t good enough, so let’s try this instead . . . the words from a few others: <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/cabinet-mock-up-Crown-Point-via-Building-Blox.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Speaking on <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/building-moxie-leah-thayer-and-a-comfy-comfy-chair/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Leah Thayer</a>’s Daily5Remodel, award-winning remodeler <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/remodeler-chris-wright-at-the-remodeling-show/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chris Wright</a> says: “They’ve put together a business model that hits me right where I live. Their quality is outstanding, but that’s the starting point. They sell direct to me, outside of normal channels of distribution (showrooms, distributors, etc.). …” “Before fabrication, they also construct and send me a complete mini-cabinet with door and drawer in the wood and finish selected so that the end client can see what their cabinets will look like, including hardware.” “As competitive as this environment is, for vendors and contractors, I think you have to be excellent across the board to succeed. Excellent product. Excellent service (way beyond the basics). Most of all, excellent at communicating and connecting with your ideal market.” <h4>A Crown Point Factory Tour</h4> BMoxie poster, Todd Vendituoli had the opportunity to tour CP’s facility recently –  <a href="http://thebuildingblox.blogspot.com/2011/08/visit-with-crown-point-cabinetry.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://thebuildingblox.blogspot.com/2011/08/visit-with-crown-point-cabinetry.html</a>.  Todd says: <a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Crown-Point-Cabinetry-via-Building-Blox.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> “(The factory) is cleaner than some people’s homes that I have seen. The facility is really state of the art from the initial design work that they do with their clients to the finished product.” . . . “Cabinet design, woods, colors and hardware have been decided and measurements have been taken, the design is worked up on a computer. From here the dimensions can and do go to all of the people and machines in the factory that will be making the individual parts and assembling them!” “Then once the style has been picked out and there are so many choices, a mock-up is made for your approval.  This enables you to see the wood, colors/stains and hardware that you have chosen in your potential project before all of the cabinets have been made! I am assuming that this service is available for various projects and it would be best to check with Crown Point for the pricing and availability. They would love to help you.” Now back to me:  While the company has been known traditionally both for quality and their unique selling model, they are quite nimble and innovative.  Again with Leah Thayer, she recently featured the company’s Linea SystemTM.   Leah characterizes it as a “kitchen assistant.”  And I was able to see it firsthand, included in the display at the Remodeling Show.  Coolness. <h4>Crown Point is Social</h4> Their approach to marketing too, and most specifically social media, is forward thinking.  New friend, Stacey has the makings of a social media superstar. The company’s <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/crownpointcabinetry" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a> is a valuable source of information, and a powerful selling tool, but fun too.  Stacey is proud of the updates she is doing with <a href="http://www.crown-point.com/blog/2011/05/the-edson-project-not-your-average-kitchen-remodel/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Edson Project</a>.  This series is currently tracking a couple in nearby Cornish, NH as they renovate the kitchen in 1870s Cape using, of course, Crown Point cabinets.  Innovative. Stacey holds down the company’s blog too. Named <a href="http://www.crown-point.com/blog " rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Wood Shavings</a>, one series she recently started toying with is called <a href="http://www.crown-point.com/blog/2011/09/crown-point-critters-say-hello-to-speedo/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Crown Point Critters</a>, and it seems super fun. <h3>Is it Love or Custom Cabinetry? I say check out CP for yourself to find out</h3> <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Brian-Stowell-discusses-the-benefits-of-Crown-Point-Remodeling-Show.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> For me – I’d say the 2011 Remodeling Show simply would have not been the same without them.  And in my time, I spied a fun and friendly corporate culture; a glimpse at 88 folks working at a company in southern New Hampshire . . . doing what they love.  And if love translates to cabinets, I’d say it’s probably right here.  Almost everyone that I spoke with at the Show, and as I told of our connection, I heard — “I know them.”  The admiration for Crown Point seemed pretty pre-existent; something that made our job of spreading the good word … just that much easier. ******* Thanks for reading and Thank You CP!  We are out with a brief audio clip, a picture of a tee shirt and back again soon with more stuff from the Remodeling Show.  Cheers. ~jb ******* <h3>Audio Interview with Brian Stowell from Crown Point</h3> <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/A-visit-with-Crown-Point-Cabinetry.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A visit with Brian Stowell of Crown Point Cabinetry at the 2011 Remodeling Show </a> — 2 minutes 28 seconds *Note on the Audio:  The interview here with Brian Stowell occurred just minutes before we left the Remodeling Show behind for 2011.  It features Brian’s thoughts on the Show.  It was recorded, edited and intro-ed by <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/author/barry/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Barry Morgan</a>. For more from us on Cabinetry, please see our category called, well, <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/tag/cabinetry/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cabinetry</a>. ~jb The post <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com/custom-cabinetry-crown-point-cabinetry/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Inside Custom Cabinetry :: Crown Point Cabinetry a Unique Proposition for Pros</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair || DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie</a>.

Inside Custom Cabinetry :: Crown Point Cabinetry a Unique Proposition for Pros

The DAP Spec Line – First to Include Industry Specifications in Product Names, Removes Guesswork from Jobs One of the bigger announcements that came out of the Remodeling Show in Chicago last week was a new product line from DAP targeting professional contractors and remodelers. The DAP Spec Line by DAP is the first full line of sealants and adhesives designed specifically to help professionals meet industry specifications for each job by including the required spec as part of the product name. Numeric labels match proven industry specification standards. Professionals can now easily select the best product for each job application. The DAP Spec Line is also the company’s first complete product line designed for window and siding installations. “We developed The DAP Spec Line of products to meet the needs of professionals who can trust the product will not only meet industry specifications but also provide the quality and proven end-user experience that people know they can count on from DAP,” said Mark Longo, Vice President and General Manager, WDS Division. “The DAP Spec Line takes the guesswork out of the purchasing process and professionals can be certain they are getting the right product for the job every time.” * Building Moxie Exclusive Here, Richard Lawrence, Vice President of Sales for the WDS (that’s Windows, Doors &amp; Siding) Division explains some of the thinking behind the product naming. Plus the technologies found in the new line (listen in as you read the balance of the post; it’s pretty cool): DAP Spec Line Richard Lawrence — 7 minutes 1 second ** ******* Product Simplicity With The DAP Spec Line To make selection even easier, The DAP Spec Line prints the Performance Facts right on the product, similar to the layout of a nutrition label. Performance Facts include the amount and coverage per cartridge, recommended use, features, specifications and other product details. Another innovation found on DAP® DYNAFLEX 920 Premium Exterior Elastomeric Sealant. This product line makes color matching simpler. It indicates the color right on the label with an actual swatch, along with a list of matching exterior building material colors from key manufacturers. “As the most recognized product brand in the sealant and adhesive categories, DAP is now strategically targeting more professional user groups with the launch of The DAP Spec Line,” said John McLaughlin, President and CEO of DAP Products Inc. “With the WDS teams’ extensive knowledge of the market and DAP’s expertise in product innovation, we have created a bundle of products that we know will help the industry to provide best-in-class work for every job.” Whether installing a window, door, siding, laying subfloor or hanging drywall, The DAP Spec Line offers a simple way to be sure the job meets the highest product and industry standards. The DAP Spec Line includes three main categories: DYNAFLEX to seal, DYNAGRIP to adhere and DRAFTSTOP to install. The product listing is as follows:  DAP® DYNAFLEX 230® This interior and exterior latex sealant meets federal specification TT-S-230C. DAP DYNAFLEX 230. Itcombines outstanding durability and adhesion with superior paintability. DAP® DYNAFLEX 800 This polymer sealant is tested in accordance with industry specification AAMA 800. It is ideal for installing and sealing around windows, doors, siding, trim and other penetrations where a tough, durable seal is required. It provides a watertight, weatherproof seal and will adhere to wet and damp surfaces. DAP® DYNAFLEX 920 This high performance, exterior elastomeric sealant meets industry specification ASTM C920. Developed for professional siding and window installations, it provides a long-lasting elastomeric seal which helps prevent water and air intrusion. The extensive offering of colors provides an aesthetically appealing and finished look to any installation. There are more than 100 colors available. Suitable for all weather conditions, DAP DYNAFLEX 920 will not wash away when exposed to rain prior to full cure. DAP® DYNAGRIP 557 This drywall panel adhesive meets industry specification ASTM C557. Designed specifically for drywall and paneling installation, it is easy to apply and provides a bond that requires fewer screws or nails. DAP DYNAGRIP 557 reduces nail pops and helps limit air and sound movement between walls. DAP® DYNAGRIP 3498 This subfloor and construction adhesive meets industry specification ASTM D3498. It can be applied to wet and frozen lumber and will extrude easily at temperatures as low as 20 degrees. DAP DYNAGRIP 3498 is ideal for reducing floor squeaks and improving the structural performance of the floor assembly. DAP® DYNAGRIP FRP This multi-purpose panel adhesive meets industry specification ASTM C557. This high-strength, quick-grab, latex-based adhesive bonds a wide variety of building materials. Especially the installation of fiberglass reinforced panels (FRP), tub surrounds and other decorative panels where the use of mechanical fasteners is limited. DAP DYNAGRIP FRP features low odor and easy soap and water cleanup. DAP® DRAFTSTOP 812 This low pressure window and door foam meets the industry specification AAMA 812. DAP DRAFTSTOP 812. Low Pressure Polyurethane Window and Door Foam is a gun-grade, low-pressure polyurethane foam designed to fill gaps between fenestration products and rough openings. ******* The DAP Spec Line Website  With the availability of the new product line, DAP launched an interactive and user-friendly website. It calls out the best product to use to meet the spec for each project. The new website is available today at www.dapspecline.com. The freshly designed site includes the following:  Rich content, including an introductory video, to demonstrate the product and application use. A complete description of products including SKU number, size, color options, tech data and MSDS. Streamlined “search options” with intuitive navigation. A color match database that allows contractors to find just the right color of DAP DYNAFLEX 920. Major manufacturers of exterior building products are all cataloged, so finding just the right color is easy.  ******* To Summarize:   Part of me wants to say that we heard clues (on our recent tour of DAP’s HQ) that something big was going to break.  But honestly, I don’t think Barry and I could have expected anything nearly this big.  DAP Products, dominant with diyers/homeowners, made a bold move here with/for professionals. Like the glue that holds our home improvement projects together (pun intended), they set a new benchmark to which other manufacturers might potentially target. It’s simply smart thinking, we think.  I should note too that while we were recently compensated by DAP as part of the DAP Seal Your Home Blogger Challenge, and in turn — they indirectly helped with the sponsorship of our trip to the Remodeling Show, the above opinion was not driven or swayed by this.  Thanks for reading and hope you enjoyed.  You’ll find extended coverage of this year’s Remodeling Show, here.  ******* ** A Note on the Audio:  Our interview with Richard Lawrence was recorded, edited and narrated by Barry Morgan, but I do talk some . . . and a little less than I usually do. You can here more of his audio recordings in The Sounding Board.  ~jb  The post Big News from the Remodeling Show :: Dap Products Debuts ‘The DAP Spec Line’ appeared first on Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair ||  DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie.

<h3>The DAP Spec Line – First to Include Industry Specifications in Product Names, Removes Guesswork from Jobs</h3> <a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Every-Job-Has-A-Spec-to-Meet-DAP-Spec-Line.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>One of the bigger announcements that came out of the <a href="http://www.remodelingshow.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Remodeling Show</a> in Chicago last week was a new product line from <a href="http://dap.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">DAP</a> targeting professional contractors and remodelers. The DAP Spec Line by DAP is the first full line of sealants and adhesives designed specifically to help professionals meet industry specifications for each job by including the required spec as part of the product name. Numeric labels match proven industry specification standards. Professionals can now easily select the best product for each job application. The DAP Spec Line is also the company’s first complete product line designed for window and siding installations. “We developed The DAP Spec Line of products to meet the needs of professionals who can trust the product will not only meet industry specifications but also provide the quality and proven end-user experience that people know they can count on from DAP,” said Mark Longo, Vice President and General Manager, WDS Division. “The DAP Spec Line takes the guesswork out of the purchasing process and professionals can be certain they are getting the right product for the job every time.” <h4>* Building Moxie Exclusive</h4> Here, Richard Lawrence, Vice President of Sales for the WDS (that’s Windows, Doors &amp; Siding) Division explains some of the thinking behind the product naming. Plus the technologies found in the new line (listen in as you read the balance of the post; it’s pretty cool): <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DAP_Spec_Line_Richard_Lawrence.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">DAP Spec Line Richard Lawrence</a> — 7 minutes 1 second ** ******* <h3>Product Simplicity With The DAP Spec Line</h3> <a href="https://i2.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/the-DAP-Spec-Line-What-the-Job-Demands-1.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>To make selection even easier, The DAP Spec Line prints the Performance Facts right on the product, similar to the layout of a nutrition label. Performance Facts include the amount and coverage per cartridge, recommended use, features, specifications and other product details. Another innovation found on DAP® DYNAFLEX 920 Premium Exterior Elastomeric Sealant. This product line makes color matching simpler. It indicates the color right on the label with an actual swatch, along with a list of matching exterior building material colors from key manufacturers. “As the most recognized product brand in the sealant and adhesive categories, DAP is now strategically targeting more professional user groups with the launch of The DAP Spec Line,” said John McLaughlin, President and CEO of DAP Products Inc. “With the WDS teams’ extensive knowledge of the market and DAP’s expertise in product innovation, we have created a bundle of products that we know will help the industry to provide best-in-class work for every job.” Whether installing a window, door, siding, laying subfloor or hanging drywall, The DAP Spec Line offers a simple way to be sure the job meets the highest product and industry standards. The DAP Spec Line includes three main categories: DYNAFLEX to seal, DYNAGRIP to adhere and DRAFTSTOP to install. <a href="https://i2.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DAP-SPEC-LINE.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>The product listing is as follows: <h4> DAP® DYNAFLEX 230®</h4> This interior and exterior latex sealant meets federal specification TT-S-230C. DAP DYNAFLEX 230. Itcombines outstanding durability and adhesion with superior paintability. <h4>DAP® DYNAFLEX 800</h4> This polymer sealant is tested in accordance with industry specification AAMA 800. It is ideal for installing and sealing around windows, doors, siding, trim and other penetrations where a tough, durable seal is required. It provides a watertight, weatherproof seal and will adhere to wet and damp surfaces. <h4>DAP® DYNAFLEX 920</h4> This high performance, exterior elastomeric sealant meets industry specification ASTM C920. Developed for professional siding and window installations, it provides a long-lasting elastomeric seal which helps prevent water and air intrusion. The extensive offering of colors provides an aesthetically appealing and finished look to any installation. There are more than 100 colors available. Suitable for all weather conditions, DAP DYNAFLEX 920 will not wash away when exposed to rain prior to full cure. <h4><a href="https://i2.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/seal-adhere-foam-the-DAP-Spec-Line-1.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>DAP® DYNAGRIP 557</h4> This drywall panel adhesive meets industry specification ASTM C557. Designed specifically for drywall and paneling installation, it is easy to apply and provides a bond that requires fewer screws or nails. DAP DYNAGRIP 557 reduces nail pops and helps limit air and sound movement between walls. <h4>DAP® DYNAGRIP 3498</h4> This subfloor and construction adhesive meets industry specification ASTM D3498. It can be applied to wet and frozen lumber and will extrude easily at temperatures as low as 20 degrees. DAP DYNAGRIP 3498 is ideal for reducing floor squeaks and improving the structural performance of the floor assembly. <h4>DAP® DYNAGRIP FRP</h4> This multi-purpose panel adhesive meets industry specification ASTM C557. This high-strength, quick-grab, latex-based adhesive bonds a wide variety of building materials. Especially the installation of fiberglass reinforced panels (FRP), tub surrounds and other decorative panels where the use of mechanical fasteners is limited. DAP DYNAGRIP FRP features low odor and easy soap and water cleanup. <h4>DAP® DRAFTSTOP 812</h4> This low pressure window and door foam meets the industry specification AAMA 812. DAP DRAFTSTOP 812. Low Pressure Polyurethane Window and Door Foam is a gun-grade, low-pressure polyurethane foam designed to fill gaps between fenestration products and rough openings. ******* <h3>The DAP Spec Line Website</h3> <a href="https://i2.wp.com/www.buildingmoxie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Hamtil-Construction-Remodeling-Show-2011-DAP-Products-Booth.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> With the availability of the new product line, DAP launched an interactive and user-friendly website. It calls out the best product to use to meet the spec for each project. The new website is available today at <a href="http://www.dapspecline.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.dapspecline.com</a>. The freshly designed site includes the following: <ul> <li>Rich content, including an introductory video, to demonstrate the product and application use.</li> <li>A complete description of products including SKU number, size, color options, tech data and MSDS.</li> <li>Streamlined “search options” with intuitive navigation.</li> <li>A color match database that allows contractors to find just the right color of DAP DYNAFLEX 920. Major manufacturers of exterior building products are all cataloged, so finding just the right color is easy.</li> </ul> ******* <h4>To Summarize:  </h4> Part of me wants to say that we heard clues (on our recent tour of <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/dap-products-tour/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">DAP’s HQ</a>) that something big was going to break.  But honestly, I don’t think Barry and I could have expected anything nearly this big.  DAP Products, dominant with diyers/homeowners, made a bold move here with/for professionals. Like the glue that holds our home improvement projects together (pun intended), they set a new benchmark to which other manufacturers might potentially target. It’s simply smart thinking, we think. I should note too that while we were recently compensated by DAP as part of the <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/weatherized-caulk/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">DAP Seal Your Home Blogger Challenge</a>, and in turn — they indirectly helped with the sponsorship of our trip to the Remodeling Show, the above opinion was not driven or swayed by this.  Thanks for reading and hope you enjoyed.  You’ll find extended coverage of this year’s Remodeling Show, <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/building-moxie-remodeling-show-2011-product-report-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. ******* ** A Note on the Audio:  Our interview with Richard Lawrence was recorded, edited and narrated by <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/author/barry/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Barry Morgan</a>, but I do talk some . . . and a little less than I usually do. You can here more of his audio recordings in <a href="http://www.buildingmoxie.com/the-sounding-board-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Sounding Board</a>.  ~jb The post <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com/2011-remodeling-show-news-dap-debuts-the-dap-spec-line/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Big News from the Remodeling Show :: Dap Products Debuts ‘The DAP Spec Line’</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.buildingmoxie.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair || DIY &amp; Pro :: Building Moxie</a>.

Big News from the Remodeling Show :: Dap Products Debuts ‘The DAP Spec Line’

Home Improvement | Remodeling | Home Repair ||  DIY & Pro :: Building Moxie

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