Sherwin-Williams Debuts New Coating.

Sherwin-Williams, an NAA/NSC member, introduced Duration Exterior Coating. Duration features breakthrough PermaLast' technology, an acrylic co-polymer blend that allows the coating to forma flexible layer that goes on 70 percent thicker than ordinary exterior paint, for extreme protection along with the ultimate hide. Because Duration is self-priming, it provides superior, one-coat coverage on previously painted surfaces and requires only two coats for new, never-painted surfaces, so it reduces the labor costs that account for the lion's share of most painting projects. Duration's mildew resistance and better protection against peeling and blistering than premium house paints mean greater aesthetic appeal for the property for years to come. Duration is available in flat or satin and a complete range of ColorAnswers' Exteriors Colors. The coating can be used on wood, stucco, masonry/cement composition panels, aluminum, vinyls and galvanized metal.

ThermaProducts Inc., recently released a full line of radiant-heat products that eliminate snow and ice accumulation. This comprehensive product line includes ThermaWalk, ThermaStep, ThermaRamp, ThermaDrive, ThermaRoof and ThermaShingle. ThermaProducts' unique technology revolves around an exclusive, radiant-panel heater design. The heating element is laminated between protective surfaces of rubber and composite materials. The top surfaces, a heavy-duty composite rubber, is impression-molded with a slip-resistant chevron pattern that insures optimal traction. The mats, which install easily, can be left in place year-round or rolled up for easy storage and seasonal use.

CreditRetriever added criminal background checks to its applicant screening service. CreditRetriever's primary applicant screening service is based on sophisticated credit-scoring model designed to improve the screening process and to assist apartment owners and mangers in predicting the performance of prospective residents. The model evaluates hundreds of pieces of data in seconds with access to the national credit bureaus. The service generates an unbiased and reliable recommendation for onsite leasing agents. The new criminal background process enables CreditRetriever to deliver search results in all 50 states plus several Canadian provinces, including Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland, Ontario and Quebec. Search results are available for 20 states within minutes. Results for eight states are available within an hour. Canadian results are available within 48 hours.

Heat-N-Glo, a division of Hearth Technologies Inc., introduced the CFX-Diamond fireplace. This fireplace, which offers a unique new look for distinctive installations, has a prominent appearance, is situated higher on the wall, and opens new applications for fireplace placement. Its exclusive diamond shape brings attention to the fireplace and its burning fire. The CFX-Diamond features Heat-N-Glo's patented CFX Technology, which have ceramic fiber firebox that acts as a great insulator and allows higher BTUs and a more robust fire. They also provide warm radiant heat. The firebox is brick stamped for added authenticity. The Diamond's direct bent design features an airtight combustion chamber that takes all of its combustion air from outside. Direct vents also keep the warm air in and the cold air out while providing thermal efficiency. They're also easier and less expensive to install than a wood-burning fireplace.

The Millwork Store of Martinsburg, W. Va., now offers architectural columns and capitals in sizes consistent with the classic proportions of the Tuscan, Roman, Doric, Ionic and Corinthian Orders. They're available in custom shaft diameters of up to 30" and up to 30' lengths. These columns are ideally suited for exterior or interior new construction and renovation applications. They can be purchased smooth surfaced, fluted normally, given deep dramatic fluting with increased stave thickness, or unfluted. The columns are made from popular designer woods including red oak, hard maple, pine, cherry, redwood, mahogany and black walnut. They are primarily fashioned from solid-stave lumber and feature wood caps and bases.