Contractor Advantage July / August 2017 by Espress Labs Inc.

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW IN ROOFING & SIDING DOORS, WHAT CONSUMERS WANT WINDOW FASHION

Columns Inside What's Trending Money Matters Product Platform Design Talk

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Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. is a Canadian member-owned, Lumber, Building Materials and Hardware buying group representing over 300 member locations across Canada.

Contractor Advantage Magazine is the exclusive publication of Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. featuring quality Castle vendor brands available at Castle Building Centres locations. Visit castle.ca to find a Castle location in your area.

Editorial Director Castle Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. Jennifer Mercieca Publisher - JAD Media Group Inc. Dan Alexander Managing Editor Teresa Christine Art Director Aram Stamboulian Contributors Teresa Christine Lawrence Cummer Melissa Campeau Jill Johnson Lei Wang

Advertising Inquiries Jennifer Mercieca Director of Communications Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. 905-564-3307 jmercieca@castle.ca

JULY / AUGUST 2017 Volume 22 Issue 4

Material Contact Maryam Bashir Marketing Coordinator Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. 905-564-3307 mbashir@castle.ca Published and designed exclusively for Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. by JAD Media Group Inc. About Contractor Advantage

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Contributors

Lawrence Cummer Lawrence (“Law”) Cummer has more than 20 years of experience writing for trade periodicals, businesses and communications agencies. He writes on topics ranging from contracting and construction, to general business, to information technology, personal finance and occupational safety, and has been a frequent contributor to Contractor Advantage since 2009. He’s passionate about learning and sharing how people across industries and roles can achieve greater success.

Melissa Campeau Melissa Campeau is a Toronto-based journalist who regularly contributes to such publications as Yardstick, the OUR HOMES series of magazines, Mortgage Journal, Financial Post and National Post. She lives in Toronto with her husband, seven-year-old son and two-year-old puppy. Daily living in a “quirky” century house with an active first-grader and an accidentally destructive 50-lb dog means you’ll often find tradespeople and contractors on hand, as well.

Jill Johnson Jill Johnson is the President and Founder of Johnson Consulting services, a highly accomplished speaker, an award-winning management consultant, and author of the forthcoming Bold Questions series. Jill helps

her clients make critical business decisions and develop market-based strategic plans for turnarounds or growth. For more information on Jill Johnson, please visit www.jcs-usa.com.

Lei Wang Lei Wang is an internationally-recognized adventurer, motivational speaker and author of After the Summit: New Rules for Reaching Your Peak Potential in Your Career and Life. The first Asian woman to complete Explorers Grand Slam (climb the highest peak on each

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continent and ski to both poles), Lei channels her experiences to convey a message of perseverance and steadfast determination that her audiences can use at work or at home. For more information about Lei Wang, please visit www.JourneyWithLei.com.

Contributors

What’s Inside?

7 News & Notes

Eight Essential Strategies for Achieving Business Longevity

13 What’s Trending

The New Generation of Home Buyers

23 Money Matters

Six Keys to Shed Fear and Take Smart Professional Risks

Doors, What Consumers Want

What’s New in Roofing & Siding

Contractors armed with knowledge of popular trends and offering options can give homeowners the entrance way of their dreams.

27 Leaders in the Limelight

Small Town, Big Dreams

45 Supplier Spotlight

JELD-WEN Canada

55 Product Platform

Premium products from Castle Vendor Partners

65 Design Talk

Curb Appeal Trends for 2017

Trends in roofing and siding reflect the challenges of weather, the price of a Canadian home and the options made possible by brand-new technologies.

Window Fashion When it comes to windows, styles and colours may change, but the need for functionality always remains.

On the Cover Photo courtesy of Mitten by PlyGem

Contents

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Colour

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News & Notes

Enduring Enterprises: Eight Essential Strategies for Achieving Business Longevity Written by Jill Johnson

Everyone who starts or leads a business dreams of passing it along to the next generation. But few are successful in making it happen. Every year, countless businesses and organizations fail. Excuses are made and fingers are pointed. Long-term success takes more than hard work and a little luck. Leaders and entrepreneurs who achieve exceptional business longevity share eight business practices that move them to long-term success. They think differently. They operate differently. And they lead differently.

1. Engage in Ongoing Planning With a Realistic Vision Successful executives and entrepreneurs prepare for success on an on-going basis, not just when they are in start-up mode. They move beyond their initial business plan to augment their success by leveraging new opportunities and seeking ideas to enhance operations and profitability. They are discip-

News & Notes

lined in writing down their plans, reviewing them and sharing with their key employees and advisors. They know on-going planning keeps them focused and moving forward. These leaders continually, and formally evaluate, what is working and what needs changing.

2. Establish a Realistic Vision for the Future Lasting business leaders also match their vision to their abilities. They leverage one success into another rather than rapidly making huge leaps beyond their capabilities. Those who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a realistic vision risk everything because they reach too high before their cash, talent or operational capability is ready for higher levels of success. Enduring leaders actively and effectively manage their transitions and hire sophisticated talent to match their future needs. Their success is sustainable because they build it on a viable foundation that is based in reality not on wishful thinking.

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3. Use Disciplined Approaches to Developing Leadership Skills Leaders who operate enduring enterprises understand experience is critical; not just with the operational or technical expertise, but also with the ability to lead, manage and weather the daily challenges of not having someone tell you what to do. These leaders understand they need to continue cultivating their ability to manage and create strategies. Those with enduring success continue developing and enhancing their skills to build their business arsenal. They read. They hire the consulting and professional talent they need to augment their internal expertise.

4. Implement Sound Fiscal Management Fiscal discipline is fundamental to long-term business or enterprise success. Yet few leaders have the self-discipline to manage their cash flow for the inevitable peaks and valleys. They respond to immediate pressures and spend money they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have. Too many leaders spend money on the flash and

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glitz trying to impress people. They never prepare for the future because theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re focused on living in the moment. Some make ill-advised decisions that create financial crises rather than making prudent commitments they can realistically handle. Successful leaders of enduring enterprises focus on building real net worth by being masters at financial discipline and tightly controlling what they spend.

5. Adapt to Changing Circumstances Markets change and technology advances. Those who are successful over the long-term understand and adapt to change. They invest in people and technology to enhance productivity. They stay on top of competitors and respond as necessary. By continually adapting, they are able to leverage the evolving trends that are fundamentally transforming their industries. Enduring leaders create enterprises that last well beyond their tenure, always looking ahead to identify tools, resources, ideas and technology that can enhance their organizational success.

News & Notes

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6. Build Substance Into The Enterprise Businesses and organizations have come and gone over the decades. Some succeeded brilliantly, but most failed to meet the expectations hyped by their founders and owners. The primary reason is lack of substance to the enterprise; most of what was promoted was smoke and mirrors. Sustainable enterprises have substance. They deliver on their promises. Clients, vendors and employees can count on them. These enterprises demonstrate a consistency of product and service quality that can be trusted over time. An on-going reputation for dependability is often a real predictor of long-term enterprise success.

7. Control Growth Those who survive long-term carefully and deliberately manage the size and growth of their enterprises. Those who focus on growth ensure they have adequate finances, equipment and staff to meet their evolving needs. Those who maintain a smaller size often find they can better manage the stability of their overhead and fixed costs. Maintenance-oriented enterprises may even make more money and have less stress than their growth-oriented peers. Both growth and maintenance oriented leaders who succeed over the long-term effectively manage their appetite for risk and keep business scope within their comfort zone. They maintain leadership enthusiasm through controlled growth or by achieving sustained financial success.

8. Maintain Motivation Staying motivated is tough in any enterprise after the euphoria of taking over or starting up dies down. Once the day-to-day activities begin to become routine, most people lose their enthusiasm. Even harder is dealing with the real stresses of leadership. Boredom is often a leaderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worst enemy. Leaders of enduring enterprises motivate themselves and their employees by continuing to look for new opportunities to better meet client needs. This provides at atmosphere of innovation and ongoing success measured in revenues, customer satisfaction and employee retention. Leaders who enjoy enduring business success have learned to constantly adapt and evolve. They respond to continuing competitive pressures by finding ways to meet evolving client needs. The secret to long-term sustainable success is doing things with discipline and excellence. Leaders of enduring enterprises both big and small do more than just dream of success. They make their success a reality by taking the actions necessary to achieve it. And make it last.

News & Notes

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What’s Trending

The New Generation of Home Buyers Written by Teresa Christine Managing Editor

According to the 2017 National Association of Realtors “Home Buyer and Seller Generational Trends”, the millennial generation has dominated the real estate buying market and has made up the largest share of homebuyers for the past four years. In 2016, at 34 percent, over half of these were also firsttime home buyers. What are millennials looking for when they purchase a home? The report noted that 46 percent of millennial homebuyers (currently aged 18 to 35) purchased newly constructed homes to avoid renovations and any potential problems with a re-sale home. Another interesting find was that heating and cooling costs were the most important environmental features for 33 percent of them. This is perhaps part of what’s fuelling the “green” trend. Millennials are looking to purchase homes with high-quality, eco-friendly products and energy-efficient materials—right down to details like house wrap and weatherization systems. When you consider these home buying statistics with the fact that millennials heavily research products using knowledgeable online sources, it’s obvious that today’s homebuilders have a golden opportunity to educate and influence this fastest growing sector of future homebuyers who rely on “expert content” over “branded content”. Builders, contractors and manufacturers of home improve-

What’s Trending

ment products are also using this opportunity to influence and encourage these buyers through social media, online blogs and e-news. Companies such as DuPont™ with their Tyvek® HomeWrap® product, see this as an opportunity to educate while learning more about this demographic and using this knowledge to influence and understand that they shop differently. In this market, businesses need to understand that this demographic of home buyers wants to be engaged and involved in researching their choices. They not only want quality products, but also want to ensure those products come from corporations that share the same social and economic values. Even organizations in the “building envelope” sector that were a bit sceptical or hesitant at first, are quickly realizing that sharing their knowledge and insights will not only help engage and educate millennial homebuyers, but also help to position their company as an industry expert who understands what today’s consumer wants and needs.

References: DuPont™, National Association of Realtors®

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DOORS, WHAT CONSUMERS WANT

Contractors armed with knowledge of popular trends and offering options can give homeowners the entrance way of their dreams. Written by Lawrence Cummer

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Feature Story: Doors, What Consumers Want

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. For homeowners, the entrance system is the first impression their home makes on its guests. For the contractors installing exterior doors, they are lasting impressions of their skills. “It’s basically your first focal point when you’re entering the home, so it absolutely plays a big part in its curb appeal,” says Marianne Thompson, Vice-President of Sales at JELD-WEN of Canada, of the importance placed by consumers on their front doors. While many consumers today are seeking custom doors that highlight their own personal styles, they are doing so with a keen eye on the issues of performance, security and energy efficiency. “Today everyone wants something different,” says John Arsenault, Director of Sales for Peter Kohler Windows and Entrance Systems. “There are three or four families of style emerging as popular, but they are all very different.” From Shaker style doors to ’70s and ’80s-style multi-door-lite throwbacks, providing customers with ample choices is the key to connecting with their individual tastes; however, savvy contractors can help homeowners discover options they didn’t yet know that they always wanted.

Adding Value With the sharp increase in real estate prices in many regions, it only makes sense that homeowners are in turn spending more attention (and money) sprucing up the entrance into their huge investment. For many it’s a great way to easily and affordably increase the home’s value. “Housing costs have climbed, but pricing on exterior doors have remained competitive,” says Hardy Rahn, Director of Sales at Alliance Door Products Canada. “So, when all of the sudden you (the homeowner) are spending a half a million on a home, you can cost-effectively add a lot of value with a relatively small investment in the exterior door, and there are now so many more options available.”

Photo courtesy of JELD-WEN

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

Photo courtesy of All Weather Windows

Big and Tall As they have for years, trends are continuing towards wider and taller doors, say manufacturers, with 8’ doors continuing to replace standard 6’ 8” entrances. “Larger and wider doors make a home stand out,” says Tracy Nadiger, Director of Marketing at All Weather Windows. This adoption of larger doors is driven by the trends towards higher ceilings in new homes and, Thompson says, it ties directly back to curb appeal. “When you get to higher end and custom build, all the entrance doors are 8’,” she adds. The trend can be found coast to coast. For instance, while Rahn witnesses it in the west, particularly Alberta and the B.C. lower mainland, Arsenault notes interest in the Atlantic, such as his home city of Halifax. “Homeowners are looking for 8’ doors, wider doors, and double doors, of course,” Arsenault notes. “Also, they are looking for multipoint locks instead of just a straight handle and deadbolt.”

Arsenault points out that three or four-point locking systems offer performance improvements due to a tighter seal and hold stronger for greater security. They become even more important the larger the door, and Kohler’s recommends them on all 8’ slabs.

Exacting Aesthetics While numerous styles are popular, a few notable design features appear to be leading the charge. Contemporary designs, with straight, simple lines and little or no embossing continues to grow in approval. “Many homeowners are looking to follow their interior door pattern outside,” Arsenault says. Thompson notes the reverse—coordinating their interior doors to match the exterior—is also true. In keeping with contemporary style, “The door glass itself is getting very linear,” he adds. “Straight-lines and textured glass that obscures with a pebble or bubble effect, for example. There are no more

Photo courtesy of Peter Kohler Windows and Entrance Systems

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Feature Story: Doors, What Consumers Want

JELD-WEN. Together We’re Experts. Vinyl windows provide a clean, contemporary look without compromising performance. These windows are built to weather the extremities, creating an airtight seal between the outdoors and the home—especially when they are equipped with tripane glass, one of JELD-WEN’s most energy efficient products to date. Homeowners prefer vinyl for its versatility, durability, costefficiency and modern style profile. You won’t find a better-

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Photo courtesy of All Weather Windows

flowers or swirls in glass designs. They’re just looking for very clean looking.” Of course, door lite preferences, like all home fashions, vary by region. “The markets across Canada differ between full glass, some glass and no glass for varying degrees of privacy,” Nadiger points out, with custom glass textures and types being popular. Full-length door lites, with or without side lites, are also very popular, Thompson suggests. Some homeowners may want to match their door lites with their window glass. All manufacturers point to a high interest from today’s consumers in Shaker Craftsman doors. “Today’s consumers want truer architectural

detailing,” Rahn notes. “They want architectural accuracy, like 90° angles for a true Shaker Craftsman look.”

Fibreglass Growth More and more homeowners are requesting fiberglass doors, especially those that emulate wood grains for their aesthetics and performance. As code changes continue to push energy performance demands up, manufacturers say that fibreglass is a cost-effective alternative to the insulated hardwood doors that many find visually more attractive than steel. “It’s not like the steel doors of the’70s and ’80s,” Arsenault says. “It’s like, ‘I can’t believe it’s not wood,’ when you look at one

of our hand-stained fibreglass doors. It’s very rich looking. There’s no trade off.” Whereas a typical exterior wood door might have an R value of 2, fiberglass can boast R-12 or R-14. This is the energy efficiency of the slab alone, of course, but has a significant impact on the overall entrance system. The U.S. Department of Energy says that steel or fibreglass-clad door systems have R values of about five times better than solid wood. Maintenance is, of course, another major motivator for homeowners asking for fiberglass over wood. “No one wants to spend their Saturdays off doing maintenance, so they are going to fiberglass for the longevity and because they know it’s going to perform,” Rahn says.

Photos courtesy of Alliance Door Products

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Feature Story: Doors, What Consumers Want

Photos courtesy of Peter Kohler Windows and Entrance Systems

SIDEBAR

Bold Hues Colour is one of the easiest ways for an entrance door to stand out and homeowners are gravitating towards bolder ones. “We have a colour paint shop, and we’re now painting more custom colours than standard ones,” says John Arsenault, Director of Sales at Peter Kohler Windows and Entrance Systems. “We’re seeing more oranges, purples, firetruck red…” While brighter and bolder colours are experiencing an uptick, when it comes to woodgrain-textured fibreglass doors, the tendency is towards darker stains such as mahogany or even black.

Feature Story: Doors, What Consumers Want

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

Photos courtesy of Spectrum Brands

SIDEBAR

Get Smart Keyless electronic locks have continued to gain popularity with consumers, says Steve Kolobaric, Channel Marketing Manager at Spectrum Brands, maker of Weiser locks. “The number one thing consumers are looking for today is electronics,” Kolobaric says. “They aren’t afraid of it anymore, and they are getting really excited about what the technology can do.” Locking systems like Weiser’s SmartCode not only allow keyless entry and remote access but now integrate with other elements of the smart home. Integration continues to expand as players like Weiser work with technology giants like Apple and Google. “The lock has become the central part of the smart home,” he says. “People like the ability to lock and unlock their doors from anywhere in the world, but also to have it communicate with other parts of the house. For example, when you lock the door from outside it can arm the alarm, turn off the lights and drop the thermostat.”

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Feature Story: Doors, What Consumers Want

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Money Matters

Six Keys to Shed Fear and Take Smart Professional Risks Written by Lei Wang

Like all the knowledge and skills that people learn, fear of failure is also learned. And as you age, you gain more and more mental constraints. Those mental constraints remove creativity and replace it with yet more fear. Fear is perceived risk; it is learned, and it can be unlearned through practice. The ability to overcome fear—to combat fear—is like a muscle. It can be trained and can get stronger through exercise. Through deliberate practice, you can become courageous, and harness your fear to take informed, intelligent, and potentially lucrative professional risks.

1. Harness Fear’s Positive Power Fear is an extremely powerful emotion—and thus, an extremely powerful motivational tool. When facing fear, the normal response is fight-or-flight. Flight is to let the fear and the worry take control of your mind. Fight is turning fear into a positive

Money Matters

risk management response, forcing you to focus and actively do the best to overcome the present situation. When you take a leap of faith to confront a new career challenge, instead of worrying “What if I fail?” imagine you have no opportunity to back out. Instead of letting the fear hold you back, take that first step, and turn fear into a positive strength that compels you to focus and to make your best effort.

2. Act Early, Act Decisively Rather than waiting until your industry or department becomes dispensable, proactively manage your career growth; learn new skills and think ahead of the curve continually to prevent a career crisis from happening. Anticipate problems and dangers before they occur. Once danger does arrive, it is often too late to do much in response.

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Act early and act decisively, because waiting diminishes the chances for success. Practice facing fear by taking chances. Even if you fail the first time, you should try again. Start with a small task, such as a new project, something you have never done. The more you try, the easier it will become to overcome fear.

3. Separate Probability from Consequences Many working professionals are afraid of taking risks because the probability of success appears low and the consequences of failure are frightening. When you think about the consequences of a failure, it is important to recognize the difference between the immediate consequences and the ultimate consequences. Yes, the probability that a new startup will succeed is low, and the immediate consequence could be losing investment money. For any new product launch or new job, there is a chance of failure, and losing your current position. But that is only temporary. Not taking the risk means that the ultimate consequence is failure. A low probability of success should not be the reason holding you back, as long as the temporary consequences of failure are recoverable. Be more mindful of the ultimate consequence of not taking that chance.

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4. Know Your Risk Management Capacity When approaching a risky situation, some people—often those who have some special talents or experiences—would go all-in and aim to grab the opportunity fast by taking bigger risks. Others take time to build a more solid foundation through each step so they have more control of the risk—at the cost of slower progress. Which style should you choose? It depends on the situation, your skill, and your risk management capacity. There is no right answer for everyone or every instance. Consider what the cost and return of taking those risks may be. Think about the alternatives you have and what the risk and return of those alternatives will be. Evaluate what losses you can afford, and consider what the temporary losses and permanent loss might mean. Ask yourself what your options are in the event of a soft loss, a hard loss, or a replaceable loss. Think about how you would recover from these possible losses. Keep in mind ways you could prepare yourself for the best outcome. You have to balance your skill level and risk management ability.

5. Be a Smart Advice-Taker It can be difficult to measure your own capability against the risk you are considering taking, because it’s hard for

Money Matters

people to see themselves completely objectively. But there are mirrors to help you see yourself better. That mirror is the feedback from people around you, such as a mentor, colleagues, or your boss. Seeking advice is imperative before you take a risk. How do you decide which advice to heed when they conflict with each other? It is important to discern the intention behind each person’s perspective. Some might be over-protective of you because of emotional attachment, such as friends or family; some may be driven by personal interest. Everyone has a bias; it is important to learn to recognize the value of different feedback. Do not just listen to the feedback that you want to hear. Do not brush aside opposing opinions too easily. Learn to form your own judgment based on those who give you advice.

6. Pushing Too Far vs. Not Pushing Far Enough The line between pushing too far and not pushing far enough is a fine line, especially when the stakes are high. In business, not pushing enough causes mediocrity and

Money Matters

may eventually lead to a company’s demise. Pushing too far causes burnout and unsustainable growth, or pursuing economic return without regard to the wellbeing of the environment or community. Managing this delicate balance is a skill that can be learned, like courage and other risk management skills. In order to avoid costly mistakes on either side of the line, you need to learn the skill of heeding the feedback you receive and improve your ability to make sound judgments. Through practice, you can gradually develop objective criteria before real danger arrives, and become better at calculating risks. Fear of failure is not the reason to avoid taking risks. Of course it’s not smart to jump at every opportunity—you have to calculate and make the best decisions under the circumstances and constraints of your knowledge and vision. Even a calculated risk can prove wrong sometimes, but when you take a chance you have the opportunity to learn and grow. If you are afraid of failure and never risk anything, you will risk everything in the end.

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Leaders in the Limelight

Small Town, Big Dreams Written by Teresa Christine Managing Editor

If you ever find yourself driving down Nova Scotia Highway 104, you will come across the small farming community of Debert or “Masstown” as the locals call it. Duly named, given its history of being the site of the very first Acadian church in Nova Scotia, there are just a few small businesses and a whole lot of farmland. But there is however, one prominent family owned and operated business that has been a community icon for decades. Founded by David Gratto in 1954, the Gratto family has been serving the community for over 60 years. Although, the business has evolved over the years, both in name and product offering, the Gratto’s commitment to their community

Leaders in the Limelight

and to upholding their family values, has remained the same. Today, Castle Masstown Hardware Building Centre owners Kurt and Noel Gratto are locally known as the Gratto boys, and are the third generation of Gratto’s to operate a business at this location. In the early 1990’s, Kurt and Noel decided it was time to change the focus of the business and with Aubrey ready to retire and the local hardware store in Debert set to close, the boys jumped on the chance to start their own hardware and building materials store in the community. Major renovations have taken place over the years as the business and demand for product grew; a new lumberyard, storage facilities and a 2-storey addition, to name a few.

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Fast-forward over two decades and as they celebrate their 25th anniversary, the Gratto boys are still thinking bigger and better. The business has continued to grow not only in footprint, but also in product assortment and services. One thing is for sure, Castle Masstown Hardware offers something that the big city folks can’t and that’s small-town service. In fact, they pride themselves on it, and with only 8 employees on staff, you can be certain that these guys know their stuff and know everyone that walks in by name. The experience leaves customers with the nice, nostalgic feeling of “back in the day” type of service at the local hardware store

but still enjoy all of the current day bells and whistles of course. Giving back to the community is what Masstown Hardware is all about. Whether it’s the local women’s hockey team they sponsor each year, or the fund raisers for local charities, Masstown Hardware is always a major community sponsor at all the town events. They have a connection to their community and it’s a testament to why the family business has stood the test of time. Congratulations to the Gratto family on their 25th Anniversary!

Chris Alexander, Sid Lomond, Roger Morrisey, Kurt Gratto, Noel Gratto, Nick Redden, Mike Morrisey, Jim Eaket

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Leaders in the Limelight

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Concealed fastener STEEL roofing profiles

ACRYLIC siding

ALUMINUM, soffits, mouldings and flat stock

BEAUTIFUL TRADITION • Traditional design • 2 crimping modes (90° and 180°) • 3 options available: striations, major rib or flat • Width of 14.5" in 22 GA, widths of 16" and 20" in 24 GA and 26 GA • Installation with clips • Optional floating clips to allow for thermal expansion • Can be installed on any sloped roof (from a 1.5/12 with a sealant)

A DISTINCTIVE HIGH-END ACRYLIC SIDING THAT SETS YOUR DREAM HOME APART • Unique selection of 15 stylish Signature colours, developed in collaboration with a designer specializing in fashion and colour trends • Pronounced wood grain perfectly reproducing the warmth and authenticity of wood • Unequalled performance against aging, fading and chalking thanks to the acrylic resin used in the siding composition • Reliable durability

THE PERFECT COMPLEMENT TO VINYL SIDING AND STEEL ROOFING AND SIDING • Wide selection of dark and classic colours offered in a broad selection of complementary products • Plain and woodgrain finishes • Horizontal and vertical applications • Complete range of mouldings and accessories • Duchesne offers a unique colour match system in three complementary lines of exterior siding – vinyl, aluminum and steel. My Colour Universe® system gives you the flexibility of combining different materials of the same or accent colour in one project.

CONTEMPORARY ORIGINAL • Snap-lock design • 3 options available: striations, multiple ribs or flat • Widths of 16" and 20" in 24 GA and 26 GA • Installation with nail strips or with clips • Can be installed on any sloped roof (from a 1.5/12 with a sealant)

UNDENIABLE QUALITY AND DURABILITY • Manufactured from top-quality aluminum • High-quality baked paint finish that stands the test of time • Meets or exceeds the applicable standards of the construction industry and the National Building Code • Duchesne aluminum soffit ensures an optimal and secure ventilation reducing the risks of rotting, pest infestation and loss of energy EASY INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE • Lightweight • Easy to handle and to cut • Minimal maintenance

PRESTIGIOUS • Batten design • 3 options available: striations, major rib or flat • Widths of 16" and 20" in 24 GA and 26 GA • Easy installation with a unique clip design • Installation on a minimum slope of 3/12 recommended

See our complete roofing and siding lines and discover our Home Visualizer at www.duchesne.ca

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW IN ROOFING & SIDING

JULY / AUGUST 2017

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE

Feature Story: What's New in Roofing & Siding

Trends in roofing and siding reflect the challenges of weather, the price of a Canadian home and the options made possible by brand-new technologies. Written by Melissa Campeau

Photo courtesy of Gentek Building Supplies

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

Much like a good suit, a home’s exterior makes a statement to the world. Also like a suit, what’s available, what’s possible and what’s in fashion will change, over time.

Natural and Neutral When it comes to siding, for example, there’s been a definite shift in the past few years to a more sophisticated, timeless palette. “We’ve got a colour we introduced two years ago called gunmetal grey,” says John Vukanovich, Vice President, Marketing at Ply Gem Canada. “It’s a

dark grey siding that really looks rich and the sales on that have been tremendous.” Black, too, is an increasingly popular choice. “There was a time you’d never see black on a home,” says Ted Talboom, Manager Retail Sales, Gentek Building Products. “Now it’s becoming really popular. People are using it as an accent, and it works really well with natural wood and stone.” In general, popular hues are rich and classic, rather than bright and vibrant. “Dark colours have set the trends in vinyl siding over the last decade and are still

in high demand,” says Catherine Quéze, Product Manager, Sidings at Duchesne et fils Ltée. “Homeowners are searching for great looks that reflect their personality while standing the test of time.” The trend toward darker, bolder colours is based in part on improved technology. “Painting, coating and siding companies can now enable their products to withstand weather conditions,” says Marilyn Chase, Director of Marketing with Royal Building Products. “Improvements in product formulations have overcome concerns related to fading or distortion from heat or freezing and Photo courtesy of Duchesne

Photo courtesy of Royal Building Products

Photo courtesy of Gentek Building Supplies

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Feature Story: What's New in Roofing & Siding

SIDING

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ENTRY & PATIO DOORS

ACCENTS

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All we make are superior exteriors.

Our highly curb-appealing, effortlessly low-maintenance siding, decking and trim match exteriors to the distinct personalities of their owners. Plus, they build up the reputations of the pros who make those exteriors happen. You’re welcome.

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Photo courtesy of Mitten by PlyGem

thawing conditions.” She adds, “Lowmaintenance products are one of the biggest home renovation trends. Homeowners don’t want to spend a lot of time having to maintain their home.” Wade O’Reilly with Kaycan Ltd. has seen the same trend, with respect to darker hues. “With both homeowners and contractors, curb appeal is important,” say O’Reilly. Keeping that curb appeal longer is easier now, too, says O’Reilly, who notes that his company offers a 25-year non-fade warranty on some lines.

Coordinated Effort Blending siding with wood or stone is another key trend. “Lately what we’re seeing is more mixing of elements, so you

might have stone at the ground level, siding in the middle, and then maybe cedar shake towards the roofline,” says Vukanovich. “That can all be color coordinated, and that’s a real strong design trend, lately.” Chase agrees, adding, “Homeowners are mixing a variety of siding materials – like vinyl siding with aluminum and stone accents – to put an individual twist on their home design.” To make the look work and keep it modern, they’re choosing clean and simple lines with their moulding and trim, says Chase. Vukanovich points out this shift is nation-wide, even where there’s significant regional differences. “In Atlantic Canada, for example, you’ll see siding in

blue, red and plenty of other colours,” says Vukanovich. “But even in that market where they’ve traditionally had more of a vibrant colour palette, we’re still seeing them mix up the textures.” It’s a look that’s been around in high-end design for some time, but its appeal and application are becoming more widespread. “What we’ve normally seen in custom homes, we’re seeing in new construction,” says Talboom. For those in the industry, that means an opportunity for big-picture planning with clients. “We definitely see the integration of products as something that’s going to be critical, in the near future,” says Vukanovich. “We rarely talk just in terms of siding, but in terms of Photo courtesy of Gentek Building Supplies

Feature Story: What's New in Roofing & Siding

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

the complementary products to go with the siding, like stone, like shakes, like aluminum soffit and trim coil. We see those being sold as packages more than individual products and then mixing the colour palette together.” Advances in technology, too, have made creating the look of a custom home more affordable, in recent years. “Products these days are easier to install, and that means labour is less expensive,” says Talboom. “In past years, you’d need a stone mason to do that kind of intricate work around the house, but now you can get panels, made of cement, that can be screwed on, and you wouldn’t know the difference.”

Weathering the Changes In terms of roofing, new advances and products have given consumers greater choice, as well. That’s good news, because changes in our weather patterns mean a need for products with a set of attributes. “With environmental conditions getting more extreme, we came up with an asphalt shingle that has better resistance to wind uplift,” says Gilles Landry, Building Products Manager, Building Products of Canada Corp. “All our laminate shingles include a patented solid sealant band that we call the Weather-Tite Technology,” says Landry, allowing the company to extend its warranty and cover the effects of winds up to 135mph.

Laminate shingles can also provide an advantage with respect to temperature, says Adam Prestwich, Director of Sales, Canada, GAF. “We seem to be getting a lot more heat, with warmer summers and milder winters,” says Prestwich. “Heat has a profound affect on asphalt tiles—they get compromised and their weatherability gets cooked out.” In fact, says Prestwich, laminate shingles have gone from being an outlier product to commanding 82% of the marketplace. Rob Davidson, VP of Residential Sales for IKO Canada, says the weather has prompted innovation at his company, as well. The company has new shingle feature called ArmourZone, offering an enlarged nailing area. “AmourZone

Photo courtesy of GAF

Photos courtesy of Building Products of Canada Corp. 38

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Feature Story: What's New in Roofing & Siding

SELL THE BRAND THAT HELPS YOU SELL! Selling roofing is tough business. So why not make your life easier by selling the brand that helps you sell: GAF.

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We’re committed to bringing you the tools you need to build your business while taking the hassles out of selling roofing. To learn more, visit gaf.ca.

*See GAF Shingle & Accessory Ltd. Warranty for complete coverage and restrictions. The word “Lifetime” refers to the length of coverage provided by the GAF Shingle & Accessory Ltd. Warranty and means as long as the original individual owner(s) of a single-family detached residence [or the second owner(s) in certain circumstances] owns the property where the shingles and accessories are installed. For owners/ structures not meeting the above criteria, Lifetime coverage is not applicable. Lifetime ltd. warranty on accessories requires the use of at least three qualifying GAF accessories and the use of Lifetime Shingles.

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is reinforced by a tear-resistant, woven band that helps provide resistance to high winds, with a limited wind warranty of up to 210 km/h,” says Davison. “The ArmourZone also provides fastening strength over a greater surface area of the shingle, helping to resist nail heads from pulling through the shingle in high winds."

Customization in Demand Manufacturers are now producing laminate shingles for hip and ridge areas on roofs (the horizontal and vertical planes where rooflines meet) in low, medium or high profiles. This, says Prestwich, offers customers the opportunity to customize. “Depending on where you are in Canada, you might be looking for different shingle profiles,” says Prestwich. “For example, on the east coast, houses have mostly

low-profile hip and ridge.” He adds, “On the west coast, they’re used to wood shake roofs, which are very dimensional, so they go with a high profile.” Customers are looking for choice, says Davidson. “Homeowners are demanding customization through a variety of colour options and shingle styles.” To meet the demand, IKO offers 11 colour options, from cool to warm, as well as a range of shingle styles including some that mimic cedar shakes or look like natural slate. Steel shingles are another alternative for customers wanting durability with plenty of style options. “For many years, the only affordable option in roofing was asphalt,” says Steve Brooks, Residential Sales Manager for Vicwest Building products. He says homeowners are now thinking differently about their roofs

and recognize the distinction between cost and investment. “Today, there are shingles, shakes and panels that look like slate or tile, all made of specially engineered metal,” says Brooks, who adds that homeowners appreciate the range of looks as well as the durability of the product. “The demand for sustainable, ecofriendly and energy efficient home improvement roofing materials continues to grow in North America, growing at a rate of between 8 and 10% every year,” says Brooks. “More and more people are looking at an alternative to asphalt shingles and investing in a long-term solution to their roofing needs with an affordable steel roof that will last for years.” René Laplante, President and CEO of Ideal Roofing points out that steel roofing’s market share is growing steadily Photo courtesy of IKO Canada

Feature Story: What's New in Roofing & Siding

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

Photo courtesy of Vicwest Building Products

Photos courtesy of Ideal Roofing

and now stands at 12%. “Steel roofing will outlast asphalt shingles by three times,” says Laplante. “It’s also available in a multitude of choices, so it’s become a very popular choice for residential applications.”

Serve and Protect Another evolution in roofing products is the development of a synthetic underlayment—the layer of protection between shingles and the deck to which they’re affixed. “Synthetic underlayments have gained a lot of ground,” says Prestwich. They offer a protection from wind, and can be made in a breathable synthetic that keeps rain out but allows moisture from the home to vent. “It also helps mitigate some of the expansion and contraction that happens with the Canadian climate, which puts a lot of stress on asphalt shingles if they are fastened directly to that deck,” says Prestwich.

Here comes the Sun Technology Just around the corner, the next big thing in roofing is likely solar-related innovation: specifically, individual shingles that collect solar power. “The technology isn’t quite there yet,

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CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE

but there are definitely people trying to launch that kind of product,” says Prestwich. “You can see where imagination and technology is going.” For now, there have been significant steps in that direction. “GAF has launched a line of solar panels that flash right into the roof,” says Prestwich. “So the panels don’t go above the shingles, they go directly to the deck and you flash around it like you would a skylight.” He adds, “It’s very low profile, very streamlined.”

The Power of a Makeover Many of the trends in roofing reflect consumers’ growing interest with that part of their home’s exterior. “In the last decade and a half the architectural community has had a big influence on homes,” says Prestwich. Roofs in the past few decades have become more prominent and intricate. While replacing shingles on a 1950s bungalow wouldn’t make much of a difference to curb appeal, the same investment in a newer home could have a huge impact. “With more prominent roofs, you have to invest the same time on a roof you’d spend thinking about the garage door, the windows,

the front entry and so on,” says Prestwich. If there’s a renewed emphasis on improving a home’s curb appeal, popular culture might be behind at least some of that shift. “I think the proliferation of renovation shows on TV has encouraged people to think about this a lot more,” says Vukanovich. “There’s also more information available on manufacturers’ websites and on design sites like Houzz.com. I think that’s all influencing the trends.”

In It for the Long Haul Sky-high home prices in many parts of the country may play a role, as well. As Canadians choose to stay put and renovate, they tend to want to make their changes last for a longer time, a move that’s likely influencing the shift to more conservative colours, natural materials and custom-looking design choices. Like shopping for a good suit, choosing quality over fads means an investment in the longer term. “That’s probably at least partly behind the appeal of choices like darker colours, natural elements, and so on,” says Talboom. “If you plan to enjoy your home for a while, you want any investments you make to have some real longevity.”

Feature Story: What's New in Roofing & Siding

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

THE GUST STOPS HERE. Get 2x the bond strength and 209 KM/H / 130 MPH wind resistance. SEE THE STRIP. TRUST THE GRIP.

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THE PINK PANTHER™ & © 1964-2017 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. All Rights Reserved. © 2017 Owens Corning. All Rights Reserved. SureNail Technology® is not a guarantee of performance in all weather conditions. SureNail Technology® is available only on Owens Corning Duration® Series Shingles. *SureNail Technology® is proprietary with U.S. and foreign protection including U.S. Patent Nos. 6,471,812; 7,836,654; 8,156,704; 8,181,413; 8,240,102; 8,430,983; 8,607,521; 8,623,164; 8,752,351; 8,991,130; 9,121,178; and other patents pending. SureNail Technology® is not a guarantee of performance in all weather conditions.

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Supplier Spotlight

JELD-WEN Canada JELD-WEN Windows & Doors has been producing superior window and door products for over 50 years. With over 1200 employees, and a transnational network of strategically positioned manufacturing facilities and dealers. JELD-WEN continues to produce the highest quality products, engineered to perform within the diverse Canadian climate and marketplace. With operations that range from manufacturing facilities, dealers and design centres, JELD-WEN remains an innovative force within the renovation and home construction industry. Every product we build is stamped with our thoughtful planning, diligent craftsmanship and expertise. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a long journey, and our hard work and patience has truly paid off. Today, we fly our flag proudly as the number one window and door brand in Canada. www.jeld-wen.com

Supplier Spotlight

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

WINDOW FASHION

When it comes to windows, styles and colours may change, but the need for functionality always remains. Written by Lawrence Cummer

JULY / AUGUST 2017

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE

Feature Story: Window Fashion

Windows are taking a bigger role of the home’s design in both size and style; however, performance remains as important as ever to homeowners. In recent years, whether through upgrades offered by new home builders, custom-built retirement abodes or renovations for energy efficiency, homeowners are becoming increasingly involved in window decisions, manufacturers say. “We’re seeing very different homes being built,” says John Arsenault, Director of Sales for Peter Kohler Windows and Entrance Systems. “It used to be that homeowners would stick to the paint colours and the flooring, but the new consumer is more educated and they’re looking at a lot of building material options.” “Windows and doors become a big part of the spend sometimes. They’re really important depending on the homeowners’ views from a scenic standpoint.”

Black and White Two tones are particularly important when it comes to windows fashion. On the exterior, black windows are becoming even more popular, manufacturers say. “Painted windows are continuing to grow like crazy, in particular black windows” Arsenault says. “You see whole streets going up with black windows in every home.” Darker trim makes windows pop, says Marianne Thompson, Vice-President of Sales for JELD-WEN of Canada. She points to popular exterior vinyl colours like blacks, browns and clay, adding that many homeowners coordinate this colour choice with their entrance or garage door. White interior windows are, of course, always a safe bet. Thompson notes that this is because a white window interior ties it closely to the room’s moulding, which is typically white. “Windows are now part of the design process of the interior. Colour and options to have a wood looking interior without the maintenance provide a designer or a homeowner flexibility with their win-

Photo courtesy of Peter Kohler Windows and Entrance Systems

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

dows inside not just outside,” says Tracy Nadiger, Director of Marketing at All Weather Windows. She says coloured interiors are gaining in popularity, particularly black or other “timeless finishes” like stainable fir. An impressive variety of wood grain substrates are now available as stainable interior wood foils, she suggests, but without the need for maintenance of actual wood windows.

Is Bigger Better? Larger windows have become a popular aesthetic for many homeowners. “Larger glass continues to gain popularity as homeowner’s design windows to bring more of the outside inside,” Nadiger says. The trend parallels one seen in entrance systems (See: Doors: What Consumers Want, page 14). Just as the 9’ ceilings are becoming the new norm, this trend is driving homeowners toward tall, wide

doors, and they are also helping to promote the same in windows, Arsenault says. “We’re seeing a lot more of that. Tall windows with a small operating window at the top or bottom,” he says, adding there’s less focus on window grills to create a larger, more open appearance. “We’re seeing a lot of that. It’s a more modern look.” However, larger panes of glass can have a performance impact to consider

Photos courtesy of All Weather Windows

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CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE

Feature Story: Window Fashion

Just another case of window envy. With good looks and available state-ofthe-art features like our leak-free V-Weld technology, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no wonder our windows attract attention. Visit allweatherwindows.com to learn more about our Canadian-made windows and doors.

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

Photo courtesy of Peter Kohler Windows and Entrance Systems

and account for. “Homeowners want bigger and larger windows, especially on the rear of their house, but as you get bigger glass units you need more steel reinforcement, and that’s a negative impact on energy performance,” Arsenault says.

The Rise of Contemporary Modern-contemporary styles, featuring right angles, straight lines and simplicity continue to gain traction in the windows

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market, just as they have in doors, cabinetry and other areas of the home. “If you imagine a Craftsman-style door, the same thing is going on in the area of windows,” Thompson says of this design trend. “The profile is very linear, meaning it’s flat.”

Form, Function or Both? For many homeowners, nothing looks better than feeling comfortable. Fortu-

nately, with Low-E options and multipane glass there is no trade-off needed between aesthetics and performance. “Triple-pane glass is now offered in all our window lines, from sliders to awnings and casement windows,” Nadiger notes. “Comfort is a feature that most people underestimate in a (window) renovation, but we hear a lot of feedback that they can’t believe how quiet their home is, and warm.”

Feature Story: Window Fashion

Photo courtesy of JELD-WEN

Consumers are generally more educated and familiar with the issues of energy efficiency, and everyone wants the best for their home, Thompson adds. The consumer demand for energy efficient windows has even started to go beyond building code requirements, Arsenault suggests. “Homeowners are now asking about Passive House certified windows, in addition to Energy Star and Green Build, NetZero and LEED.” “We have engineers who work closely with builders and (now) consumers who have very specific requirements about the low-e (low-emissivity) being used. We never had requests like that 10 years ago.”

SIDEBAR

Mixed Materials – Vinyl, Aluminum and Acrylic When it comes to combining style and performance an innovation is gaining traction, according to Marianne Thompson, Vice-President of sales at JELD-WEN of Canada. Hybrid windows, such as her company’s DF hybrid window family, combine the interior aesthetics and low-maintenance that come from

high-performance all-vinyl windows (on the inside), but with the increased durability to weather and elements attributed to aluminum cladding (on the exterior). “It increases the durability and weather protection and enhances the appearance of the window,” she says. These windows typically have a darker exterior profile with white interior. Tracy Nadiger, Director of Marketing

for All Weather Windows points contractors and homeowners to the use of acrylic foil in place of paint or aluminum clad windows. The advantage, she says, is her company’s interior and exterior acrylic foil wrap—a unique combination of polymers to reduce heat absorption, improve UV resistance and resist weathering—which is also scratch resistant and has a 10-year warranty.

Photos courtesy of JELD-WEN

Feature Story: Window Fashion

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

Performance Power Tool Accessories for Green Builders When it comes to protecting our environment and delivering value, EAB gets top marks. Over 1,200 high performance products to ensure your job is top-notch. Make the smart choice and contribute to saving our planet hundreds of tons of natural resources —everything we do at EAB is lean green. And we’ll put dollars back in your wallet with our green buy it, exchange it, and save. When you bring back your used blades, we’ll credit you up to 40% towards your next EAB purchase.

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H G U O FIERCELY T Razor Back® Blades Razor Back®, true to its name, is a powerful breed of high performance power tool blades. We guarantee these saw blades, diamond blades, hole saws, and reciprocating blades will outlast all others. And when you’re ready for a replacement, we’ll put dollars back in your wallet with our green exchange system. Just bring back your used blade, and we’ll credit you up to 40% towards your next EAB purchase.

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Product Platform

PRODUCT PLATFORM

Latest & Greatest Products Available at Local Castle Building Centres

Milwaukee M18™ & M12™ Vehicle Charger As cordless technology continues to take over the jobsite, the demand for convenient charging solutions is increasing. Tradesman are often on the go throughout the day or working on jobsites without power – making mobile charging all the more appealing. Now, Milwaukee has a solution with the launch of the new M18™ & M12™ Vehicle Charger. The new charger plugs into 12V DC outlets and accepts all M18™ and M12™ battery packs, charging them sequentially. With Milwaukee® REDLINK™ Intelligence, this charger communicates directly with M18™ and M12™ battery packs

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Pinnacle™ Cedar Shingle Panel A true advancement in shingle panel design technology. The Pinnacle™ Cedar Shingle Panel is made from 100% fine grain Western Red Cedar and features an advanced interlocking shingle panel design.

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DONT JUST GLUE IT.

A NEW STANDARD FOR SUPER PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION ADHESIVES LIQUID NAILS® FUZE*IT® All Surface construction adhesive features hybrid technology that bonds nearly everything to everything, offers instant grab to save time and can be applied to dry and damp surfaces. Hot, cold, wet or dry, porous or smooth, Fuze*It All Surface offers a durable, flexible bond that is two times stronger than fasteners alone.

THE BRAND YOU TRUST For more than 45 years, professionals have relied on the Liquid Nails brand to deliver outstanding long-term durability, adhesion and impact-resistant bonds that won’t crack or break as substrates and buildings shift overtime. Our product line includes a broad range of adhesives, caulks, sealants and home repair products with project specific formulas to tackle the toughest jobsite challenges.

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CHOOSE VINYL WINDOWS FOR LOW MAINTENANCE & HIGH PERFORMANCE Vinyl windows are an affordable, low-maintenance option, that provide a clean, modern look. These windows are built to weather the extremities and provide excellent insulation. With JELD-WEN Vinyl Windows, homeowners can cozy up in their favourite chair and enjoy comfortable, consistent room temperature on a warm or cool day. Vinyl gives homeowners the versatility of interior and exterior options, energy-efficiency and a modern appearance, on any budget.

CUSTOMIZE - With JELD-WEN Vinyl windows, the options are limitless. Discover a wide selection of custom options, including window style, colours, grille patterns and more. GRILLE PATTERNS - Give contemporary windows a classic appearance, while creating an attractive focal point within the area of the glass pane. Choose from our selection of grille configurations or have us design a custom pattern in a material of your choice. COLOUR - JELD-WEN Vinyl windows are available in a number of exciting colour options, allowing homeowners to match their

Visit jeld-wen.com to explore our endless selection of top-performing windows and doors. 58

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2016

window frame to the architectural look of their home.

Manufacturer of the Year Windows and Doors

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resisto.ca | 1 877 478-8408 60

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Celect and painting: Don’t even think about it. Celect® Cellular Composite Siding is engineered to be the most aesthetically pleasing and maintenance-defying exterior on the block. That means no painting and no caulking. Celect’s advanced cellular material and fade-resistant Kynar Aquatec® coating work together to protect homes from the impact of the sun and the punishing effects of time. Plus, the patented interlocking joints that produce its virtually seamless looks inspire effortless admiration while blocking out moisture and all varieties of weather. Just a few of the things that make Celect perfectly superior to fiber cement, engineered wood and the rest of the siding crowd. Find out everything siding can do at celect.royalbuildingproducts.com.

7" CLAPBOARD / PINE BROOK

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We Can Help With Your Next Exterior Project SIDING & TRIM

DECKING & RAILING

STONE | FIBER CEMENT PREFINISHED | ENGINEERED WOOD

COMPOSITE DECKING | ALUMINUM RAILING TREATED WOOD | CEDAR

MoistureShield® Infuse™ redefines composite decking with the exclusive Co-X manufacturing process. Infuse boards feature a realistic woodgrain finish, enriched colour variegation and an enhanced colour palette of deep earth tones. • • • • •

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1”x 6” deck board Lengths available: 12ft, 16ft, 20ft Transferable lifetime warranty 25-Year fade and stain warranty Offered in 3 rustic colours

Visit our electronic catalogue for more information

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www.canwel.com

DO MORE IN A DAY WITH RIGIDSTACK™ SIDING Nail Line

22% FASTER INSTALL

375% STRONGER

Time studies show that RigidStack™ strand lap siding built on LP® SmartSide® with its heavy duty spline installs up to 22% faster than standard 16’ lap.

Pull tests show it takes 70 pounds to pull RigidStack away from the wall compared to traditional blind nailed lap siding.

UNIQUE FEATURES

Distributed by:

•

Built in nailing line for proper fastening placement

•

Available in 16' lengths for faster installation; Available in 6”, 8” and 12” widths

•

Up to 33% fewer seams than traditional 12' siding

•

Exclusively pre-finished with Diamond Kote™, 30-Year No Fade Warranty and 5/50 Year Warranty on the material

FREE SAMPLES See the difference for yourself. Email us for free samples of RigidStack™ Siding and find a dealer location near you! contactus@dkprefinish.com Sample Code: rigidsample2017 dkprefinish.com Designed with the Installer in Mind .

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

Start Painting Castlegard has everything you need to start painting including a premium line quality of paintware. Whether professional or DIY, Castlegard has the painting accessories you need to get the job done.

Exclusively at Castle Building Centres locations. Visit www.castle.ca to find a Castle near you.

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Design Talk Photo courtesy of IKO Canada

Curb Appeal Trends for 2017 Written by Teresa Christine Managing Editor

First impressions, for the most part, are fairly important. This is specially so when it comes to real estate. Whether you’re buying, selling, renting or investing, the first time you walk up or in to a home is memorable and leaves an impression. From the front yard, the landscaping, or lack thereof, to the windows and doors, curb appeal plays a role in how you view the value of the home and property itself and can even make or break a sale. According to the National Association of Realtors, 63 percent of homebuyers will drop by a house they like after viewing it online. Oftentimes

Design Talk

buyers will make this decision based solely on seeing an exterior image of the home in the hopes that the snapshot they saw is indicative of its interior too. As the curb appeal trend continues to influence and entice homebuyers and sellers, here are a few ways to help maximize the value of your property at first glance.

Knock, Knock The trends in doors, as they have for years, are continuing towards wider and taller entrances. Homeowners are opting for contemporary designs, with straight, simple lines and little or no embossing. Manufacturers are also seeing a push for

fiberglass doors, especially those that emulate wood grains for both their aesthetics and performance value. Colour is also one of the easiest, and cost effective, ways for an entrance door to stand out. Homeowners are gravitating towards bolder hues and whether they opt to buy a coloured door or simply paint it, this trend can be a budget-friendly way to increase curb appeal. For more on this year’s door design forecast visit pg. 16.

A Little Pane for a lot of Profit Windows are also taking a bigger role of the home’s curb appeal. Design

CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE JULY / AUGUST 2017

trends in both size and style are reigning high however, performance remains as important as ever to homeowners. In particular, two tones are trending when it comes to window fashion. On the exterior, black windows are becoming even more popular and modern-contemporary styles, featuring right angles, straight lines and simplicity continue to gain traction in the windows market. This trend has had a similar effect in doors, cabinetry and other areas of the home. For more on window trends for 2017 visit pg. 48.

to cultivating curb appeal, more than half of those updating their front yards say that beds or borders (47%), shrubs (29%), and perennials (28%) are the most important features of their home’s curb appeal. Although it’s just as important to landscape and manicure your grass and hedges, adding a pop of colour with bulbs and blooms is the current trend. For those homeowners who don’t have a “green thumb”, this trend includes adding potted plants and other distinctive vases, urns or containers that will elevate your yard to a higher level of appeal and beauty.

Siding for the Win

R&R for your ROI

There has been a definite shift in the past few years when it comes to siding. This includes homeowners favouring a more sophisticated, timeless palette. The trend here is to blend siding with wood or stone. The fact that homeowners have so many choices to colour coordinate the siding with the other materials keep this trend on the upward side. For more on roofing and siding trends visit pg. 34.

With the spring and summer months still signaling busy seasons for the real estate market, “rest” or “relax” stations are ever more popular. Two-thirds of homeowners use their outdoor spaces for relaxing (69%), from gardening to entertaining to spending time with their family.* From the patio furniture to the backyard accessories, homeowners are looking for a retreat style getaway that they can escape to whenever needed. Before this trend was relegated to the backyard but has now transitioned into the front of the home as well. More and

Beds, Borders and Blooms According to a 2017 Landscape Trends Study conducted by houzz, when it came

more, seats, swings, loungers or benches have become part of the entrance décor and amplified the home’s curb appeal. There is no denying that in the ever increasing competitive real estate market, curb appeal is becoming one of the most important factors in gauging the value of a home. For homeowners looking to sell, it’s the ideal way to drive more traffic to their listing. For those buying, a first impression oftentimes determines the general feeling of the home. And, for homeowners anchored where they are, the curb appeal trend is an investment that is sure to increase overall enjoyment and property worth for years to come.

* For more information on the 2017 Landscape Trends Survey visit houzz.com

Photo courtesy of Mitten by PlyGem

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Design Talk

COVER UP AN UGLY CEILING WITH WOOD-LOOK PLANKS

Remove panels

Give your outdated ceiling a fresh look with WoodHaven ™ Ceiling Planks . Offered in a variety of new finishes, WoodHaven Ceiling Planks can be installed directly

Snap on Easy Up clips

over existing 15/16-in grid using Easy Up ® clips. WoodHaven planks can also be installed over drywall, plaster or popcorn ceilings using furring strips or the Easy Up® system. See the full installation details and finish options at ceilings.com/woodhaven Position planks; slide and secure clips

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Build beautifuly WITH GENTEK

From specialty sidings and decorative accents to custom window colours and more, our extensive product selection is designed to inspire! Here you will find the innovative technology, artistic detail and superb craftsmanship that will take your projects to the next level – with bold and beautiful results.

INTERIOR EXTERIOR APPLICATIONS

SAGIPER PVC CLADDING • Replica-wood PVC panels let you achieve custom-crafted elegance • Applications include exterior cladding, soffits, covered decks, front veranda areas, interior ceilings (basements, bathrooms, coffered ceilings), interior walls and more • Tongue-and-groove corrugated PVC planks are wrapped in a high-quality exterior vinyl coating that’s virtually maintenance-free • Water absorption 0.04% – perfect for high humidity areas • Available in standard and special order colours

SEQUOIA® SELECT ULTRA-PREMIUM VINYL SIDING

LONGBOARD® PREMIUM ALUMINUM SOFFIT & SIDING

• Low-gloss finish with natural cedargrain texture • 4 classic profiles and 28 colours for greater design options • Ultra-premium .046" panel thickness • Windload tested up to 407 km/h (253 mph)* • Lifetime limited, non-prorated, transferable warranty† with hail and fade protection

• Ideal for commercial and high-end residential applications • Available in a wide range of realistic woodgrain finishes and colour options • Available in 24' lengths and 22 woodgrain finishes with a full selection of powder-coated colours • Zero long-term maintenance; won’t rot, warp, peel or fade • Up to 25% recycled content and 100% recyclable • AAMA 2604 certified powder coatings

Ultr a - Pr e mi um V i ny l Si d i ng *Windload performance may vary by profile design. †See printed warranty for complete details. Not all colours are available in all profiles.

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1001 Corporate Drive Burlington, ON L7L 5V5 Make us a part of your home. CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGEgentek.ca