ProBuilder Product Report: Flooring

Hardwoods such as ebony, rosewood and walnut are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. A low-cost alternative called Alowood by EverTech uses plantation-grown, sustainable lumber that's organically hardened and colored with the company's starch-based Everdex technology. The product is FSC-certified.

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The Cartglass Luster Series of ¾ by ¾-inch glass tiles by Hakatai feature cool opal-like iridescent colors for exterior walls; countertops; backsplashes; and pool and residential floors. The sleek-surface series is available in 1.15-square feet sheets that are mesh-back mounted for easy installation.

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Following the 2006 CushionStep fiberglass flooring launch are 23 new designs from Armstrong Floor Products in the company's Wood, Stone and Impression lines under the 120-, 100-, and 80-mil BETTER and BEST collections. BETTER additions include the Messina, Sedona canyon and shoreline beige.

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New stair riser offerings from Kerfkore include a new paint grade version at half the price of the standard veneer products. The risers are made in an 8-inch step height that can be ripped down to match new specs or existing stairs. If you want to really go nuts, you can purchase them single- or double-nosed or in red oak, pine and maple veneer.

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Providing a warm and cozy ambiance, hardwood flooring from Preverco's Exotic Series includes striking species from South America and Africa. Planks are made in 3¼-inch widths in both engineered and solid hardwood. Choices include Brazilian cherry/jatoba, santos/cabreuva, sapele and tigerwood.

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Builders looking to green up their operations can tell customers that, according to Stairtek, the wood in its stair treads is derived from environmentally managed forests. High-quality pre-finished stair treads by Stairtek are available in three widths and five lengths in 12 different exotic species. Treads and risers are sorted by appearance and grain patterns for a more consistent look. A 25-year residential wear guarantee is offered.

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You can either slap these floors down with or without an adhesive, according to Domco. Its latest collections, the Urbana and Eloquence, are low-maintenance and are extremely quiet to walk over. A 15-year performance warranty is offered.

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