Concrete &amp; Masonry

Concrete & Masonry

From decorative to structural, this month’s roundup represents the state of the art and technology involved in such innovative materials and processes as versatile steel-frame formworks, light-transmitting concrete panels, special flooring finishes, and veneer cladding systems. — Linda C. Lentz

Sheer dichotomy
Defying all previous assumptions, TranslucentConcrete by Andreas Bittis for the German manufacturer Florack is a high-density product that can be fabricated in up to 48" x 79" panels at about ¾" thick. (Other versions of this material are available in smaller 24" x 48" sheets.) A combination of optical fibers (5 percent) and fine concrete, this light-transmitting material maintains the structural integrity of the concrete. Florack, Heinsberg, Germany. www.andreasbittis.de

[Reader Service: April 2008 #214]

Secure hold
Engineered to meet the new stringent International Building Code (IBC) requirement of strength, the Power-Stud+SD2 carbon-steel bolt is a one-piece, fully threaded wedge anchor with a stainless-steel clip designed for concrete and other masonry applications. Available in a full range of lengths and diameters, this bolt is said to have significantly more holding power than the company’s previous version of this product. Power Fasteners, Brewster, N.Y. www.powers.com

[Reader Service: April 2008 #215]

LEED-ing the way
A patented dry method of polished concrete-floor or surface restoration, the VOC-free FGS PermaShine System gains points for the LEED certification of a building through the LEED for New Renovations Version 2.2 Green Building Rating System. Besides reducing waste and energy by refurbishing a preexisting surface, the system extracts and retains dust during the grinding process. L&M Construction Chemicals, Omaha, Neb. www.fgs-permashine.com

[Reader Service: April 2008 #216]

Rock-solid veneer
Appropriate for numerous residential and commercial projects, interior and exterior, Realstone Systems natural stone veneer panels are fabricated in hand-selected, split slate, quartz, limestone, and sandstone. Available in five profiles and shades, such as the new Accent Stone (top left), each modular panel measures 6" by 24" and weighs between 8 and 14.5 pounds. Configurations include corner pieces (bottom left), cut with fingered ends, and precut outlet panels. Realstone Systems, Troy, Mich. www.realstonesystems.com

[Reader Service: April 2008 #217]

Linda Lentz is managing editor at Architectural Record, responsible for the Record Interiors issue, lighting sections, and schools. She joined RECORD in 2008. Previously, the Brooklyn native worked as a freelance writer and editor covering design, materials, and products for RECORD and such design and shelter publication as Interior Design, This Old House, and Consumer Reports. This followed 10 years as Articles Editor at Home Magazine. She holds an M.A. from NYU and a B.F.A. from Pratt Institute.