204 New Things...and Counting
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We're not quite halfway through the year and already I've written about 204 new building prodcuts either in print or in my weekly Product Extra slideshows like the one below. Two hundred and four! That's just a fraction of what's been introduced to the industry, but I do my best to bring you details on as many promising and interesting products as possible.
So, of those 204, how many have you actually tried?
I realize that the Products pages of our magazines are about more than just selling products. (Don't tell the manufacturers I said that!) They're about stimulating designers' minds with new ideas. They're about helping remodelers locate visuals of finishes and fixutres their clients can't put into words. They're about educating building professionals on new trends and techniques emerging around the industry.
That said, I do want to make sure that the coverage I'm bringing you is actually helpful, and that we're sharing information on products you actually want to put into use.
Outside of the office, I sit down with my Sunday paper each week and sift through the coupons and circulars. We all have preferred brands that we use day in and day out, whether it's soap or showerheads. But how often do you go outside that comfort zone and try a new product? Dozens of new grocery items are come out each month, and coupons are often enough to entice me to try them.
I may not be able to offer you product discounts on the newest tools or cabinetry, but there is a way you can test the waters without fully investing in a product you're not sure about. Just request more information! In each issue of Remodeling, at the bottom of the products pages, you'll see a Web address to visit: http://remodeling.hotims.com. Just choose the right issue and check the boxes next to products you want more information about. Literature will be sent directly to you from the manufacturers.
In the meantime, as design styles change and as homeowners continue to get ideas for new products from TV and magazines (i.e., "Can you get me that faucet I saw on Design on a Dime?"), take a chance and consider how you might integrate new product options into your next projects. You just might find a new indespensible product for your arsenal!
Have information about a favorite product you want to share? Or, did you take a chance on a new product and find it was the best decision you could have made? Share your comments here, or visit the Remodeling Online forums and shout it out! If you mention a product here, I'll feature you and the product in an upcoming product slideshow!