The world of building products is one of ongoing evolution and improvement as manufacturers constantly strive to up the ante and provide the most advanced products in their categories, whether tools, trucks, fenestration, flooring, or decking. The result for dealers is the opportunity to continually sell products that help their customers produce work more efficiently, at a higher quality, and to the greater satisfaction of their own clients. In 2004, we witnessed a handful of interesting trends in a few key product categories that are sure to shape the building landscape today and into the future:

Siding Vinyl siding manufacturers have continued to expand their color options with darker, richer shades that are more resistant to fading and heat distortion than some earlier attempts. Manufacturers have taken advantage of advancements in polymer science, infusing their vinyl siding products with acrylic and ASA (acrylonitrile/styrene/acrylate) additives--which are inherently stable against UV radiation--in the form of capstocks. Strong warranties are offered to back up these products.

Fasteners Over the past year, fastener and connector manufacturers have continued to develop new products for use with ACQ-treated lumber, which is more corrosive than its predecessor, CCA. Manufacturers also continue to test these and previously existing products for corrosion resistance, and the majority of manufacturers offer very specific recommendations for the use of their products in conjunction with pressure-treated wood. Until the industry develops a universally accepted test method for corrosion-resistance, though, dealers and customers must remain vigilant to ensure the correct fasteners and connectors are used with ACQ-treated lumber.

Windows The number of manufacturers offering impact-resistant windows and doors has continued to increase during the last few years, but the drive by manufacturers picked up even more steam in 2004 as four hurricanes pounded Florida; months later at January's International Builders' Show in Orlando, the need for impact protection was still top of mind as existing and new lines of storm-resistant windows were heavily promoted.

Interior Doors While the exterior window and door category continues to focus on developing impact-resistant units, the interior door segment has concentrated lately on offering an ever-expanding spectrum of decorative options and designs. Interior door manufacturers are making it easy for builders and designers to carry a home's architectural themes all the way through its interior by offering doors in distinct architectural styles. Other decorative options that have surfaced include vanity-mirror doors, a proliferation of glass light choices, and even specialty panels.

Housewrap The housewrap category is evolving to solve the complex moisture problems of homes as they are understood today by not only preventing air and water intrusion from the outside, but also by allowing water generated inside the home to escape from the wall cavity. Some manufacturers have taken a more aggressive approach by incorporating drainage paths that channel water to the bottom of the wall so it can escape the cavity more quickly.