Residential concrete products.

In July, Hanley Wood LLC published the first issue of RESIDENTIAL CONCRETE, a new magazine dedicated to the growing uses of concrete in homes. Here is a preview of the next issue. The cover story will look at interior concrete floors, while a second feature spotlights ICFs in residential homes.

We've included here a list of manufacturers and suppliers who in our first issue represented a range of residential concrete products. If you want more information about any of these products, circle the corresponding reader service number and mail in the card. If you are a residential or decorative contractor and would like to learn more about RESIDENTIAL CONCRETE, contact Chari O'Rourke at 630-705-2696 or corourke@hanleywood.com.

Dispensing colored concrete

Cement Tech offers two systems to help meet growing demand for colored concrete. The liquid system has a 35-gallon storage tank, recirculating system for agitation, variable-speed motor drive, and other features. The dry color product offers a 4-cubic-foot capacity, weather-tight storage bin, precise auger metering, and easy dial control for accuracy. Cement Tech, 800-247-2464, www.cementech.com. Circle 12.

Countertop design training

Designer Fu-Tung Cheng--author of the bestselling book Concrete Countertops offers intensive, five-day workshops that include hands-on crafting of several of his designs, as well as access to a number of sought-after trade secrets. Cheng Design, 510-849-3272, www.concreteexchange.com. Circle 13.

Support for concrete home builders

The Concrete Home Building Council--a division of the National Association of Home Builders--offers a wealth of benefits for the concrete industry, including networking, national recognition, updates on new technology, regional groups, marketing support, advocacy and legal assistance, information on concrete-specific events, and a resource center on cement-based products. Concrete Home Building Council, 202-266-8362, www.nahb.com. Circle 14.

High-performance stamping system

The Ultra-Surface stamping system can be applied 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick over existing surfaces and stamped in a variety of textures, patterns, and designs using the company's polymer concrete and custom-made stamps (available in 30 patterns and textures). The system achieves the same beauty, elegance, and natural-looking appearance of traditional 4-inch stamped concrete without the need to remove and replace the existing surface. Concrete Solutions, 800-232-8311, www.concretesolutions.com. Circle 15.

At home with concrete

Use the inviting colors of concrete in and around your home to increase its liveability and safety while reducing maintenance. Colorful concrete can also increase your property values. Concrete can be produced in a wide range of colors: warm earth tones, variegated shadings, vivid hues, and any shade of gray, ranging from warm to deep and dark. Degussa Buidling Systems. www.concretelifestyles.com. Circle 16.

Quick, easy-to-use reusable bracing

The Footlock Bracing System, designed for use on below-grade foundation walls in residential construction, can be used on poured concrete or block wall foundations. No tools are required for installation; no additional footing is needed for support. It can be installed or removed by one person in less than a minute, it is completely reusable and can be transported in the bed of a pickup truck. Direct Steel, 800-658-8429, www.footlock.com. Circle 17.

Waterproofing membrane

Ecobase II is a high-performance, cost-effective waterproofing solution. It is very flexible, enabling it to handle movement and minor cracking. Its instant build ensures proper membrane thickness every time. Use it to create a completely seamless water proofing membrane, polymerized for resistance to chemical breakdown. Epro Services, 800-882-1896, www.eproserv.com. Circle 18.

Waterproofing and decorative cements

Excellent Coatings' waterproofing membranes and decorative polymer cements can be used together or as stand-alone systems. The polymer cements are low-profile overlays that can be applied over concrete or plywood substrates. Create stone, tile, brick, and wood effects using trowelled, sprayed, or stamped techniques. The company also offers epoxy garage-floor coatings for interior applications that require chemical resistance and easy cleanup. Excellent Coatings, 800-473-3817, www.excellentcoatings.com. Circle 19.

Aluminum gang form adapter

With Gates & Sons' aluminum gang form adapter you can gang-form or hand set aluminum panels. The product is available for aluminum or steel-flame/plywood systems. Contractors can put existing panels to better use and increase their productivity. The system's reusable taper ties do not need an inner wall spreader. Gates & Sons, 800-333-8382, www.gatesconcreteforms.com. Circle 20.

Reactive concrete stain

Infusion is a line of reactive stain product that can enhance new or existing concrete, using a unique shading of colors. Use either the solvent- or water-based sealers as a topcoat; both contain UV inhibitors to create a uniform, non-yellowing film. The industrial floor finish can be used as a topcoat for high-traffic areas; it requires no buffing. H&C Concrete, 800-867-8246, www .hc-concrete.com. Circle 21.

The Ultimate Cover-Up for Boring Concrete

The Thin-Crete stamped overlay system duplicates the natural look of stone, slate, granite, brick and even wood, in realistic deep relief patterns over existing concrete surfaces. It eliminates the hassle and expense of concrete replacement which makes it perfect for commercial renovation and fastrack projects. Incredibly durable, Thin-Crete cures to over 6000 psi, can be colored and textured to match any design theme or specification providing a versatile flooring system that's as durable as it is beautiful. Increte Systems, 800807-0807, www.increte.com. Circle 22.

Planetary polisher

The D8 301 planetary polisher, available from Intertool, is a rugged tool that produces a fiat, swirl-free finish on countertops, floors, walls, and steps. It can grind, hone, polish, and clean concrete, terrazzo, marble, or granite surfaces using coated abrasives, diamond polishing, lightweight diamond wheels, or brushes. Intertool Inc., 800-926-9244, www.intertool.com. Circle 23.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Eliminate random cracks

Joint Mate attaches to your wall panel ties, speeds installation, and delivers maximum crack control. The product is fully reversible to enhance or minimize the joint surface area. In contrast to other joint systems, Joint Mate does not require you to open your panels, break off, and throw away half of the plastic. Joint Mate, 515-202-2133, www.jointmate.com. Circle 24.

Masonry fireplace dampeners

The FireMagic line of masonry fireplace dampeners is designed to promote maximum draft efficiency. Each of the products is constructed of heavy-gauge steel for durability. The line includes high and square forms, high domes, rumfords, and custom sizes. A range of accessories is available. K&W Manufacturing, 909-277-3300, www.k-and-w-mfg.com. Circle 25.

Color variation

Kemiko Stone Tone stain transforms an ordinary concrete slab into a luxurious floor that resembles marble or glazed stone. Unlike paint, the product reacts with the minerals in the concrete. With varying degrees of intensity, each slab displays multi-hued variations. Kemiko Concrete Products, 903-587-3708, www.kemiko.com. Circle 26.

Easy selection guide

Request the new Scofield Systems brochure for an easy selection guide. See the difference that professional stains, dry shake hardeners, release agents, stamping and texturing tools, and cementitious toppings can make. Find out about our next generation of compatible more durable sealers. L.M. Scofield Co., 800-800-9900, www.scofield.com. Circle 27.

Saves time and money

The RB650 rebar tying tool reduces the time tying. Using up to 16-gauge tie wire, it can tie up to two #10 rebars in one second. This cordless tool comes with a 9.6-V battery, charger, and holster. An optional extension bar reduces the risk of back injuries. Max USA Corp., 800-223-4293, www.rb650.com. Circle 28.

Good impressions

Make a good impression with Miracote's line of decorative concrete overlays and repair products. A variety of polymer-modified cementitious technologies are the backbone of the product line. They are VOC compliant, or 100% solids, and resist water and chloride penetration. Miracote, a div. of Crossfield Products, 310-886-9100. www.miracote.com. Circle 29.

Low-cost wall systems

The company's insulating concrete forms offer lower labor costs and easy installation and cleaning, with no design limitations. The system also saves time, without need for stud walls or surface prep for interior finishes. The form ties virtually eliminate blowouts and will grip nails and screws for applied finishes. Phoenix Systems & Components, 877-423-3676, www.phoenixicf.cnm. Circle 30.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Tips on decorative surfaces

The second edition of Finishing Concrete with Color and Texture offers contractors tips on planning and constructing decorative surfaces on concrete slabs. The updated guide includes a new chapter on white concrete, as well as enhanced coverage on staining and painting. The book also assists in developing specifications for decorative projects. Portland Cement Association, 847966-6200, www.cement.org. Circle 31.

Key to low-cost construction

Precise aluminum forms for concrete are the key to fast, low-cost construction because they require far less labor than conventional wood flame construction. Concrete is also fire-resistant and cuts down on outside noise. This low-maintenance system also reduces long-term insurance costs. Precise Forms, 800-537-0706, www.preciseforms.com. Circle 32.

Insulating concrete forms

The Quad-Lock insulating concrete form is a versatile system that can be shaped into almost any design, including arches, corners, and curves. The expanded polystyrene panels feature R-values of 22, 32, and 40, lowering heating costs. The patented tie design also reduces the likelihood of blowouts. Quad-Lock Building Systems Ltd., 888-7115625, www.quadlock.com. Circle 33.

Largest color supplier

The company's decorative concrete division, now providing products to the United States, is the largest supplier of color to Mexico's fast growing decorative market. It manufactures color hardeners, release agents, sealers, overlay materials, stains, and stamping tools. Rotec International, 877-969-4141, www.rotecsite.com. Circle 34.

Decorative concrete saw

The X150D Decorative Prowler saw was designed especially for the contractor who wants a no-hassle way to make decorative cuts. Designed to be economical and durable, it has a low-noise, low vibration 4.5-hp engine. It is ideal for that beautiful decorative look for control joints and saw cuts on large and small jobs. Soft-Cut International, 800-776-3328, www.soffcut.com. Circle 35.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Countertop Mix

The new SS Countertop Mix is a blend of 3/8-inch rock and several sand sizes, with a choice of white or gray cement. The refined blend of aggregates requires less cement and less water. This results in higher substrate strengths with less shrinkage--keys to avoiding curling and cracking. The Stamp Store, 888-848-0059, www.thestampstore.com. Circle 36.

Protects against mold and mildew

Stego Wrap vapor barrier protects against floor covering failures and mold and mildew problems. It provides the performance and protection to comply with industry standards and to help prevent moisture-related problems for the life of your building. Stego Industries, 949-493-5460, www.stegoindustries.com. Circle 37.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Decorative formliners

The Design-Crete concrete stamping system changes ordinary concrete surfaces into exceptional architectural designs. A combination of colors and special tools are used to permanently imprint newly placed concrete. De tailed stone, brick, or tile patterns can be simulated in a variety of colors and textures at a fraction of the cost of comparable materials. Symons Corp., 847-2983200, www.symons.com. Circle 38.

Window-well system

The 5600 series modular egress window well offers flexibility in creating emergency escapes from any basement area. It features a patent-pending, snap-together design. Individual sections are easy to handle and can be installed by one person. Pieces interlock to form a window well that fits any home. Wellcraft Inc., 989-224-7095, www.wellcraftwells.com. Circle 39.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Removable forms

The Comfort Wall system, a removable and reusable aluminum forming system, provides insulated concrete walls without special ties, tools, or foam. The system costs less than traditional ICFs, wood framing, or block methods. Installation is easy: one crew can do the entire process, including forming, insulating, pouring, and stripping. Western Forms Inc., 800-821-3870. www.westernforms.com. Circle 40.