Paslode introduced its revolutionary new fastener, TetraGrip, at the 2011 International Builders' Show. TetraGrip is a subfloor fastener that drives like a nail and holds like a screw, saving time and money on installations and costly call-backs. As part of its IBS 2011 Best of Show series, AvidBuilder met with Paslode to learn about this new construction technology and to get a firsthand look at how it works.

Boral Roofing showcased its smog-eating roof tiles at the 2011 International Builders’ Show. Smog is formed when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds combine in action with sunlight. Boral’s recyclable roofing tiles neutralize nitrogen oxides using photo catalysts charged by the sun’s ultraviolet rays — thereby preventing smog from forming. As part of its IBS 2011 Best of Show series, AvidBuilder met with Boral Roofing to learn more about this new technology.

PVT Solar exhibited its energy- and cost-saving Echo Solar System at the 2011 International Builders’ Show. The system captures about 50 percent of the sun’s energy, compared with 15 percent for traditional solar/electric systems. This energy is used for water heating, home heating and cooling, and ventilation. As part of its IBS 2011 Best of Show series, AvidBuilder reveals more about this system, which can be easily monitored using an Internet-enabled computer or mobile device.

At the 2011 International Builders’ Show, Unico exhibited its Green Series air handlers, which use less space and deliver greater capacity than traditional HVAC systems. Unico uses variable speed fan motors for energy efficiency and flexible tubing that is one-third the size of conventional ductwork. As part of its IBS 2011 Best of Show series, AvidBuilder met with Unico to learn how this energy-saving, low-profile design eliminates drafts while quietly delivering consistent room temperatures.

CPS showcased its interactive topographical table at the 2011 International Builders’ Show. Called SalesTouch, the unit uses touchscreen technology to engage users, who can view site maps, choose unit options, modify plans and even E-mail or print documents. As part of its IBS 2011 Best of Show series, AvidBuilder met with CPS to learn how this turnkey solution has become a more versatile, customizable and affordable sales and marketing tool for home builders.

Legrand exhibited its surprisingly affordable Unity home automation system at the 2011 International Builders’ Show. Controlling more than just lights, the scalable system uses multi-room audio, intercom and camera technologies to meet a wide range of home automation needs. As part of its IBS 2011 Best of Show series, AvidBuilder met with Legrand to see how the Unity system can be integrated into a home for as little as $1 per square foot.

Eaton impressed attendees at the 2011 International Builders’ Show with its Level 2 electric car charging station. The indoor/outdoor unit can be mounted on a wall or pedestal and can charge most electric vehicles in less than eight hours. As part of its IBS 2011 Best of Show series, AvidBuilder met with Eaton to see how this $1,600–$1,800 system can be used for single-family homes, multi-family units, homeowner associations and even commercial businesses.

Hy-Lite Products revealed its diverse line of operable, acrylic block windows at the 2011 International Builders’ Show. The windows provide the look of glass block while allowing for fresh-air ventilation, making them ideal for bathrooms, kitchens and basements. AvidBuilder met with Hy-Lite to explore how these windows are meeting the needs of homeowners who want it all: light, ventilation and privacy.

Dow Solar Solutions showcased its solar shingles at the 2011 International Builders’ Show. The photovoltaic shingles integrate seamlessly with asphalt shingles and can be installed by any roofing contractor, who simply feeds an electrical harness through the roof to be connected to the home’s electrical supply. As part of its IBS 2011 Best of Show series, AvidBuilder met with Dow to learn how this system addresses concerns about solar’s aesthetics, cost, installation and warranty.

Formica showcased its expanded line of large-scale patterned laminates at the 2011 International Builders’ Show. The 180fx line takes advantage of new printing technologies that make it possible to produce 5-foot sheets of non-repeating patterns, allowing the company to mimic exotic materials such as petrified wood, marble and travertine. AvidBuilder met with Formica to learn how these eye-catching lookalikes can be had for one-fourth the cost of real materials.

It seems like there’s an app for everything these days, and now Aareas Interactive has made it possible for home builders to be onboard the technology bandwagon. The company has unveiled an iPad app that enables sales agents and consumers to tour homes virtually. This technology even includes the ability for buyers to choose options and sign sales contracts online.