Architecture Products

Editor's Bookmarks - April 2010

Each month RECORD reviews building product related web sites and blogs that might be of interest to our readership. We visit each site, kick the tires a bit, and share what it is about and how it functions. Please let us know if there is a site you've found particularly useful, well-designed, or easy to navigate. — Rita Catinella Orrell

www.greenguard.org
The Greenguard Environmental Institute’s (GEI) site has been updated with a new layout and improved navigability to provide architects and designers with easier access to a redesigned database of low-emitting products and materials that can earn green building and design credits. In addition to the revamped product guide, the new site offers info on GEI’s Continuing Education Units—accredited courses that help architects and designers earn sustainability credits from organizations like USGB, AIA, IDCIC, and CSI. The site also gives visitors one-click access to an Indoor Air Quality Management Plan, which can be used as a supplement to Master Specification Section One. During our test run, there seemed to be missing images for products in the database — question marks appeared in both Firefox and Safari browers — but otherwise it was easy to navigate.

www.WMDA.com
Although not flashy, the Window & Door Manufacturers Assocation’s new site is a good resource for anyone looking for product information specific to the window, door, or skylight industry.

The site includes new features like a State Legislative Issues Tracker, which allows visitors to see which states are working on similar issues, or view all proposed changes in their area. WMDA members receive full access to all of the site’s online content including WDMA’s 2010 National Policy Agenda and code & regulatory updates, such as information on the new EPA lead ruling.