Show offs: check out these exciting new products from this year's International Builders' Show. y

Building Products, Jan-Feb, 2005 by Stephanie Herzfeld, Elizabeth Landry, Nigel F. Maynard, Stephani Miller, Katy Tomasulo

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GE security

PremisesConnect, a Web-based server application and security system, provides homeowners with on-site or remote management and control of their homes' security, safety, lighting, home networking, lifestyle, access, HVAC, and CCTV systems. End-users are notified via e-mail, text message, or telephone when an event affecting one of these systems occurs. 800-777-5484. www.gesecurity.com. Circle 362.

L. B. plastics

Three new PVC products include the Sheerline 3000 railing series, a molded newel post, and Ready To Assemble (RTA) gates. The railings, which feature 3-inch profiles, are designed for porches, balconies, and decks; they come in beige and white. The newel post is available in 38- and 54-inch sizes in white, and the gates come in adjustable sizes for custom applications. 800-752-7739. www.lb plastics.com. Circle 363.

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Graphisoft

ArchiCAD 9 Virtual Building solutions software features enriched capabilities and tools for greater ease of use, a more polished workflow, and more powerful functionality, the maker says. Existing functions have been refined and new enhancements reduce iterative work and increase productivity. New functions improve presentation-creating and architectural documentation functionality, says the developer. 617-485-4203. www.graphisoft.com. Circle 364.

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Crane performance siding

Giving builders more exterior trim design options, the Fluted Lineal is the newest addition to the manufacturer's line of insulated architectural accessories. The product features a solid core backing that provides added energy efficiency and 300 percent more impact resistance than ordinary vinyl siding, the company says. It comes in 20-foot lengths in Aspen white and can be used with the manufacturer's solid core and traditional vinyl siding. 800-366-8472. www.vinyl-siding.com. Circle 365.

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Tyco plastics and adhesives

WeatherTrek housewrap features a three-dimensional surface that the manufacturer says directs water down and away from the wall to reduce mold, mildew, and rot potential. The housewrap can be stapled or nailed directly to sheathing; it can be used behind a variety of materials including brick, vinyl, stucco, harboard, wood, and others. 877-832-0333. www.tyco.com. Circle 366.

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Therma-Tru

The Fiber-Classic and Smooth-Star fiberglass patio doors now are available in sliding versions. The doors come in 6-foot-6-inch, 6-foot-8-inch, and 8-foot heights, and in 12-foot widths in two-, three-, and bi-parting four-panel configurations. Multi-point locking hardware is standard. Fiber-Classic doors feature a natural oak grain look and can be stained or painted on the interior. Smooth-Star units have a smooth finish. 800-537-8827. www.thermatru.com. Circle 367.

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Heatilator

Designed to link separate living areas in open floor plans, the Caliber See-Through gas fireplace has a 44-inch-wide opening, and is available with Modernist or Arts & Crafts fronts in several finishes. The unit's flame height control adjusts heat output from 32,500 to 45,000 BTUs, says the maker. An optional fan blows warmth into either room. The fireplace can be vented horizontally or vertically. 800-927-6841. www.heatilator.com. Circle 368.