For more product information, visit ebuild, Hanley Wood's interactive product catalog, at www.builderonline.com or www.ebuild.com.
Get a GripThe manufacturer says this new nylon roof sheathing clip is a dramatic improvement over steel versions because it is faster and easier to install. In fact, the company says, it should save about 1.5 man-hours on a 2,200-square-foot home. The unit has “living hinges” that move to lie flat and grip the sheathing. It leaves consistent 1/8-inch expansion gaps between sheets and can be used on 7/16- to ½-inch-thick boards. Cost: 9 to 11 cents per clip. M&O Products. 608-712-2353. www.griphclip.com.
French ConnectionThe Ice2O—a 25-cubic-foot, French door, bottom-mount refrigerator—brings together the best attributes of side-by-side and top-mount units. It offers full-width shelves, easy access to ice and water, and a design that puts everyday items within reach. Other features include a beverage chiller compartment, a temperature-controlled deli drawer, and a door organizer for cans and other bottles. The Energy Star–rated appliance comes in white, black, bisque, and stainless steel. Cost: $1,999 to $2,499. Maytag. 800-688-9900. www.maytag.com.
Hit the GasThe NR90GC gas-powered framing nailer is a cordless alternative to pneumatic versions, the manufacturer says. Using an interchangeable 7.2-volt nickel-cadmium battery and fuel rod, the tool drives up to two nails per second and over 4,000 nails per charge. Moreover, it weighs only 7.7 pounds, fires clipped-head nails up to 3 ½ inches long, and has a lockout feature to prevent accidental firing. Cost: $417. Hitachi Power Tools. 800-829-4752. www.hitachipowertools.com.
Cut UpMaking cuts in fiberglass insulation requires some skill and a good tool to handle the job. The manufacturer says its new Insul-Knife solves at least the second of these problems. The multi-purpose tool looks like a saw but performs like a razor, providing quick, clean cuts in various types of insulation, including fiberglass, foam pipe, and Styrofoam board. Cost: $35. Cepco Tool Co. 800-466-9626. www.cepcotool.com.
On the LevelAnything to make work easier and more accurate is always welcome. The X3 Laser Level does both, the manufacturer says. It has a knob that allows users to move the laser line up and down for precise placement and three bubble vials to ensure a level line across adjacent walls for hanging corner shelving and other tasks. The tool can be mounted to the wall with 3M Command adhesive strips. Cost: $45. Strait-Line. 800-464-7946. www.strait-line.com.
Water BreakerPlumbing failures and leaks usually happen unexpectedly and can cause severe damage. FloLogic System 3.0, the manufacturer says, uses a flow sensor coupled with a user interface to minimize or prevent the damages caused by such events. The unit monitors all water coming into the home and automatically shuts off if its flow exceeds a preset limit. Cost: $795, including keypad, power supply, cables, battery, valve, and flow sensor. FloLogic. 877-356-5644. www.flologic.com. Circle no. 106.
