www.architecturalrecord.com/articles/7149-editor-s-bookmarks-october-2008

Editor's Bookmarks - October 2008

October 19, 2008

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.kohler.com/pro
Kohler has launched a password- protected Web site to serve the needs of several trade groups including plumbers, contractors, architect/designers, builders, remodelers, and countertop installers. Users from each trade group receive customized information from Kohler based on their indicated areas of interest. Visitors can search for product info, create folders to keep projects organized, and store it all for future access.

www.ilevel.com/performance
connection The iLevel Performance Connection Tool is a simple interface for professionals looking for information on structural framing products suitable to the requirements of their geographic area. Visitors enter their zip code, and the tool provides a listing of appropriate products based on four key environmental conditions: seismic design category, maximum wind speed, snow load, and average annual precipitation.

www.restorationglass.com
S.A. Bendheim has launched a new site featuring extensive information about Restoration Glass, a line of mouth-blown window glass the company exclusively imports. Online visitors will find enhanced navigation, images, and a QuickTime video demonstrating the centuries-old traditions employed to produce the glass. The Web site also includes “How to Measure” guidelines and an online shop.

www.buildinggreen.com/calc/fuel_cost.cfm
To help consumers and professionals objectively compare fuel costs, BuildingGreen (which collaborates on McGraw-Hil’s GreenSource magazine) has launched a free online fuel-cost-comparison calculator. The calculator helps simplify the process by considering the heat content of each fuel, the efficiency of combustion by the heating equipment, and the efficiency of distribution.