Replies

1. 
   danno7x | Dec 20, 2008 11:53pm | #1

   This is it dude.  Lots of experience, lots of opinions, usually lots of feedback.  Ask more specific questions and you'll learn more than you want to.

   Edit: fill in your profile so people can see your location, often matters when asking questions what type of climate you live in.

   
   

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   Edited 12/20/2008 3:54 pm ET by danno7x

1. 
   MichaelW | Dec 21, 2008 12:25am | #3

   Thanks Danno, I have gotten great advice from this forum over the years for things I couldn't solve on my own. I'll add my profile.

2. 
   Ted W. | Dec 21, 2008 12:19am | #2

   Danno took the words right out of my mouth. Other than here, though, you should checkout http://www.ebuild.com

   I'll be watching this threat too, could use some good sources myself. ;-)

   (edit) And of course, http://www.taunton.com/finehomebuilding/ =)

    

   See my work at TedsCarpentry.com
   Buy Cheap Tools! BuildersTools.net

   View Image

    

   
   

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   Edited 12/20/2008 4:21 pm by Ted W.

1. 
   MichaelW | Dec 21, 2008 12:25am | #4

   Ted,Thanks for the tip on ebuild. It is exactly what I was looking for.MW

3. 
   Waters | Dec 21, 2008 03:05am | #5

   There is an advertiser's index in the back of every issue.

   There's your new product goldmine.

   Then just expand from there when you find a product you're interested in. 

    

4. 
   hammer1 | Dec 21, 2008 03:27am | #6

   Prior to the internet age, the standard was "The Thomas Register". Most companies that have to specify a variety of materials have a set. Occasionally, a large library may have them. They would be quite expensive for an individual to purchase. Available online for a fee.

   Things are changing so fast today, it seems like something new is out there every month. Sources of supply and information are expanding like the Big Bang. Those of us in the business often receive info through trade only publications, conventions, salespeople, other contractors and suppliers. These are the best sources since they often come with experienced opinions.

   Beat it to fit / Paint it to match

1. 
   BillHartmann | Dec 21, 2008 05:20am | #8

   Thomas is free.http://www.thomasnet.com/But it is more for components and manfacturing equipment. Although some sections might be helpful.For construction products the standard was Sweets Catalog.I see that they are online.http://products.construction.com/But it is supported by companies that pay.So under residential faucets Delta was the only well know brand. No Kohler, AS.But it still has lots of info..
   William the Geezer, the sequel to Billy the Kid - Shoe

5. 
   xxPaulCPxx | Dec 21, 2008 04:29am | #7

   Get a subscription to Fine Homebuilding and the Journal of Light Construction.  Both feature new products in the back, besides the advertizers.  Great sources of new materials -but be aware that not everything will be offered in your area.

   Tu stultus es
   Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA
   Also a CRX fanatic!

   Look, just send me to my drawer.  This whole talking-to-you thing is like double punishment.

1. 
   MichaelW | Dec 21, 2008 09:17pm | #9

   I've looked through the various journals and Fine Homebuilding seems like the most interesting and closest fit to the kinds of things I do. Also, I continue to be amazed at the quality of the information available on this forum. For someone that is not in the trades, it is a great way to talk to people that really know stuff. Asking a few questions saves me tons of time and regrets later.Thanks everybody for your help.

6. 
   ted | Dec 21, 2008 09:37pm | #10

   They've been using a lot of newer materials on the project for "This Old House" this season. I learned about the shower waterproofing system last week and this week I saw a neat thing for keeping gutters from filling with debris.