St Cloud Times - Inspiring People - Barrier's Vice President, Ms. Jan Loebel

In this past Sunday's St. Cloud Times - Life Section, there was an article on Barrier's very own Ms. Jan Loebel, Vice-President of Operations. Jan describes her approach to balancing a challenging career along with her personal life. Her mission at Barrier is to be proactive, continually focus on process improvement, support a learning environment, and helping others to succeed. Her overall mission is to enjoy each and every day. Click here to read the full article.

Jan shown here with her dogs, Basil and Buster. (Photo by St. Cloud Times)

Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

2008 Builders Product & Service Show - BATC

On Wednesday, April 23, Barrier Technology exhibited at the 2008 Builders Product and Service Show of the Builders Association of the Twin Cities (BATC) in the Minneapolis Convention Center.

Mike Huddy, President & CEO of Barrier, along with Jim Dukart, Sales Manager, were on hand to meet with architects, designers, builders, and building supply distributors from hundreds of companies across central Minnesota. Barrier featured product samples and information, including a new brochure that highlights the comparative advantage of using Blazeguard over chemically treated plywood (FRT) or gypsum wallboard in multifamily roof deck applications. See Handout

Along with information distribution to new and existing Blazeguard customers, Barrier used the BATC Show as an opportunity to connect with numerous Twin Cities - area building supply companies that carry Blazeguard.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

WallSt.Net interviews Barrier President, Dr. Michael Huddy

Yesterday after our Q3 Sales Revenue and Volume press release, WallSt. Net requested an interview with Barrier's President and CEO, Dr. Michael Huddy, for their show "The Three Minute Press". The interview captures Barrier's thoughts on the previous quarter and a vision for the near future.

Here is a link to the interview: http://tv.wallst.net/3-min-press/3-min-press.php. Scroll down the page on click on “International Barrier Technology, Inc” under “Featured Companies”.

Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

MBI Trade Show April 5th-April 8th Bonita Springs, FL

Barrier President and CEO, Dr. Michael Huddy, PhD; along with our partners Mule-Hide Products, and ABC Supply Co., participated in the Modular Building Institutes annual trade show last week. The show was held in Bonita Springs, FL on April 5th through the 8th. According to Dr. Huddy, the show was very well attended. Participants, including key decision makers and owners, were interested and had a broader awareness this year of the FR Deck Panel (manufactured with Blazeguard technology) and its benefits to commercial modular roof deck applications.

In 2007, the commercial modular industry grew by 8% overall (a positive trend in comparison to the negative media attention to the residential housing market). The industry expects that same growth rate, at a minimum, this year.

Barrier experienced double digit growth in the commercial modular sector last year as the FR Deck Panel remained the choice for many and with several new manufacturers making the switch. We are optimistic at the anticipated overall growth in the industry for 2008 as well.

Here are a couple pictures from the show...














Pictured from left: Mike Huddy, Barrier President & CEO; Walt Griffin, Mule-Hide Modular Program Manager

The Mule-Hide booth took first place at the show!

Pictured from left, Mike Huddy, President, Barrier Technology; Ken Long, Government Projects Manager, ABC Supply Co.; Walt Griffin, Modular Program Manager, Mule-Hide Products; John Van Beek, National Sales Manager, Mule-Hide Products

Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

Proposed legislation could provide financial relief for builders

This week, the Senate unveiled a bi-partisan provision that would allow builders (along with other companies) to apply current losses to taxes paid four years ago, instead of just two-years back as the current regulations allow for. The benefit for builders would be allowing them to apply their losses back to profits gained during the housing boom.

Builders have been lobbying for this carry-back provision for awhile. They see it as a positive in a couple ways: 1. Prevent companies from having to sell land at large discounts. Fire sales have helped to drive down property values and contributed to foreclosures. 2. Help to prevent small builders from going out of business.

If builders can keep control of their land and small builders can stay in business, Barrier is optimistic the housing crisis will be over sooner rather than later. We think that this carry-back provision, coupled with the Economic Stimulus Plan, are both positive for the economy as a whole.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

Barrier goes "SIP"-ing in New Orleans

Barrier was proud to be a Silver Sponsor of the 2008 Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA) Annual Meeting and Conference this past week in New Orleans.

Barrier offered information on Blazeguard as a fire-rated coating on the inside-facing panel of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for use in energy-efficient and labor-saving commercial and residential construction. In particular, Barrier is targeting commercial, industrial and institutional SIPs construction, such as use in the roof of an Ohio prison dormitory. Blazeguard's 20-minute thermal barrier and Class A flame spread rating make it an ideal fire treatment for this type of construction, obviating the need for gypsum wallboard on the inside face of SIP walls and roofs.

The 2008 SIPA Annual Meeting and Conference featured seminars on the energy efficiency and eco-friendliness of SIPs as well as the continued growth of the SIPs industry.

Information on Blazeguard was well-received at the show, with Barrier quoting Blazeguard-on-SIPs for restaurant construction in Georgia, residential building in Mississippi and a government building in Pennsylvania. Numerous architects, designers and panel manufacturers in attendance collected case-study information on Blazeguard-on-SIPs for use in future projects.

Barrier Sales Manager James Dukart has also joined the SIPA Supplier's Committee as well as SIPA's newly-formed Commercial Marketing Sub-Committee.

Watch the Barrier Web site and this blog for ongoing information about Blazeguard on SIPs. Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

Blazeguard Sales Representation in south Texas

Barrier has added independent sales representation in the south part of Texas. Lance McHaney and Betsy Finch are an enthusiastic team currently selling other building materials in the region. They already have a strong option for wholesale distribution, with multiple locations and a rail spur to minimize shipping costs. In addition, they will participate in an upcoming CSI show in their region (3/24) to promote Blazeguard Fire-Rated Panels.

Barrier had identified Texas as one of the next key territories to focus on introducing Blazeguard products and penetrating with sales several months ago. We are excited that we have been able to align ourselves with reputable, experienced sales folks there and are looking forward to the opportunities that now present themselves in this region. Their focus will be on making builders, architects, and distribution aware of all the applications Blazeguard can be used in to meet fire code requirements.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

Best time to buy a house in four years?

National City Corp and Global Insight, a financial analysis firm with offices in 13 countries, is reporting that right now might be the best time to buy a house in more than four years!

This report shares that home prices are falling and home valuations (the difference between what a home SHOULD cost and its actual price) are at their lowest point since 2004. Home valuations are starting to return to a more normal level, but prices could drop again. By the end of 2008, housing markets could be undervalued on a broad basis.

Increased affordability and price drops in the last three months of 2007 were reported by 88% of the 330 housing markets analyzed.

We hope that as housing prices continue to decline and financing remains at affordable levels, that those debating first time homeownership or retiring and downsizing will look at multifamily housing and condominium developments as an afforable option. Our sales force is closely following multifamily building starts nationwide and using that as one tool to identify regions to focus our sales/marketing efforts.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

Case Study - Ohio Prison using Blazeguard Fire-Rated Panels

An Ohio Prison is increasing security, saving time, and money by utilizing SIPs panels manufactured by Pacemaker/Plymouth Foam and constructed using Blazeguard Fire-Rated Sheathing.

Attached is a link to the full story...

Case Study - Pacemaker, Ohio Prison

Blazeguard technology is a perfect fit for SIPs panels as it offers a price competitive product that exceeds the thermal requirement, has a Class A flame spread rating, reduces labor, and offers impact resistance. Barrier definitely sees this market as the next step in market diversification. Our manufacturing facility has the ability and capacity to produce SIPs up to an including 8' x 24' panels. Barrier is attending the SIPA annual show in New Orleans later in March and plans on increasing our marketing efforts in this arena. Stay tuned for more...Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

Barrier Attends Wisconsin Code Change Update Session

Barrier Technology CEO, Mike Huddy and Sales Manager, Jim Dukart attended the Northwest Building Inspectors Association Wisconsin Commercial Building Code update seminar in Eau Claire, Wisconsin on Thursday, February 21.

The seminar, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce Buildings and Safety Division, focused on code changes the state is implementing as it adopts the 2006 International Building Code (IBC), approved by the Wisconsin state legislature in November 2007. Wisconsin's updated Commercial Building Code will go into effect March 1, 2008.

Among the most significant changes for Barrier is that there will now be exceptions to the requirement for sprinkler systems in multifamily buildings that have 8 units or less and are less than 16,000 square feet in size. Blazeguard Fire-Rated Sheathing can now be used in combination with a 2 hour rated fire wall to separate units and eliminate the requirement for a sprinkler system. This is a new territorial opportunity for our residential roof deck market. Barrier will review the code changes and offer technical advice on their effect on townhome builders in Wisconsin. Please watch this blog for further information, or call Jim Dukart at (800) 638-4570 for details.

The meeting was attended by more than 80 code officials, architects, and designers, and was part of a state-wide series of seminars regarding Wisconsin's code changes. Barrier frequently attends such seminars to help builders better understand how Blazeguard can be used to meet or exceed code requirements. If there are code changes or seminar in your area that Barrier should know about, please pass them along. Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

First Large Government Project using the Blazeguard product, FR Deck Panel is secured!

Yesterday we received the news...a large government project, barracks for a military base, will be constructed using our Blazeguard product, Mule-Hide FR Deck Panel! ABC Supply Co, the major distributor of the Mule-Hide FR Deck Panel used in commercial modular construction, has been working diligently to get our panels listed in the government specifications for these types of modular buildings. Their hard work has paid off! This project alone will require over 5,000 FR Deck Panels. In addition, there are already two other similar governmental projects in the works looking to convert to this modular system as well.

Barrier is excited at the growth opportunity this new market sector brings to our existing commercial modular business.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

Logan Lumber Company hosts Buyer Show/Open House

Logan Lumber Company, our wholesale distributor in Florida, is hosting a Buyers Show/Open House next week to showcase their new facility.

Here are the details:
Tuesday, February 19th
1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
1635 Tappan Boulevard
Tampa, FL
(813) 253-3445

Logan has been a long-time partner with Barrier in bringing the Blazeguard Fire-Rated Product to the Florida multifamily construction market. In 2006, we shipped almost 4 million square feet of Blazeguard into this market. 2007 was obviously impacted significantly by the steep downturn of the housing industry, especially in Florida, as speculative investing and over supply peaked. However, we have already seen the market start to turn ever so slightly with several car load volumes shipped down there since the first of the year. We wish Logan a successful Open House/Buying Show next week and a successful 2008.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

Economist predictions from International Builders Show

The International Builder's Show took place this week in Orlando. Economists at the show spoke about predictions that residential building nationwide would continue dropping through out 2009, but put a ray of light out there as well...lower home prices will help correct the current housing decline.

David Seders, NAHB's Chief Economist, told those attending the conference that single family home starts could decline on into 2008, but lower home prices is part of the long-term solution. Reduced prices will spur sales and increase demand for new homes and residential building.

Another positive note was from the Chief Economist for Freddie Mac. In summary, he said the Fed Reserve interest rate cuts and the economic stimulus plans are both positive. It will take a little while for the impact to boost the economy, but lower interest rates will help home buyers make housing purchases.

Barrier sees the demand for multifamily housing to continue. The demand for afforable housing for first-time home buyers and maintenance free-living opportunities for baby boomers downsizing remains strong. The over supply in inventory continues to slowly deplete and we've seen new projects begin the construction phase again. Lower interest rates, combined with the proposed government economic stimulus plans, can only help those financially responsible folks who have been on the fence about homeownership take the leap.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

Blazeguard Fire-Rated Sheathing Case Study - Used in SIPs construction in Cottonwood, MN

Blazeguard Fire-Rated Sheathing was used as the required thermal barrier in a Structurally Insulated Panel (SIPs) project in Cottonwood, MN. Extreme Panel Technologies manufactured and installed the panels. Attached is a link to the full story...

Case Study - Extreme Panel, Cottonwood, MN

Blazeguard technology is a perfect fit for SIPs panels as it offers a price competitive product that exceeds the thermal requirement, has a Class A flame spread rating, reduces labor, and offers impact resistance. Barrier sees this market as the next step in market diversification. Our manufacturing plant has both the ability to produce "jumbo" panels - up to 8' x 24' - and the available capacity. Look for Barrier to strengthen its relationship with SIPA (Structurally Insulated Panel Association) and increase marketing efforts directly to SIPs manufacturers over the next year.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulated panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

2008 Architect Perspective

In the January/February 2008 issue of Architectural West, the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) continued up more than two points in November. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported that the November ABI rating was 55.3 up from 53.2 in October. Inquiries for new projects were 56.6. Any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings. We know that there is an approximate 9 to 12 month lag between architect billings and construction spending. This really dove tails with other projections reported of a recovery of some of our construction revenues in the second half of 2008.

Architects/Engineers are a key focal point for the Barrier sales team in the residential roof deck market. Barrier approaches this audience by attending AIA shows, group presentations, and on-site visits. By providing them our Blazeguard Fire-Rated Panel code reports, product specifications and load limits, we give them the tools to confidently specify Blazeguard in projects required to meet certain fire codes. The more Blazeguard is specified up front in the planning phase, the more likely our product will be used over competitive products when construction begins.

We remain positive about the potential 2008 brings for Barrier. Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulative panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board

New Commercial Modular Customer in PA

We are excited that another commercial modular manufacturer, Crest Homes in the Lewistown, PA area, has chosen to use the Blazeguard product - Mule-Hide FR Deck Panel - in a large upcoming project. Barrier is pleased at the growth in product awareness among commercial modular manufacturers and end users which allows us to continue to increase market share and further our quest to be THE product of choice for fire protection.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulative panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board

Senator Norm Coleman and Forum Panel Discuss the Housing Sitaution in Minnesota

Yesterday, Senator Norm Coleman, along with a panel of others held a forum in Saint Cloud, MN to publicly discuss the current housing situation in Minnesota. I attended and wanted to share some of the information I came away with. Foreclosures have steeply increased and subprime lending plays a big role. At the time many Minnesotans financed their homes with an ARM, housing prices were on the rise. The basic principle that refinancing into another mortgage product at the time the ARM expired; utilizing the growth in property value was a very realistic, although not risk-free, option. Looking back into 2007 and forward into 2008 with property values actually declining, refinancing to maintain affordable mortgage payments has and will continue to be difficult for many homeowners.

Several audience comments to Senator Coleman focused on the need for much tighter federal regulations in the mortgage industry. Banks are subject to regulatory paperwork and are subject to regular reviews; why shouldn't all mortgage funding companies? Looking back in history, tight funding regulations were put into place in the 80's in response to the housing recession and funding issues back then.

Senator Coleman's response was two fold. 1. Tighter restrictions on fraudulent, predatory lending agencies and speculative buyers MUST be addressed. 2. However, we have to be careful not to restrict and eliminate ALL "subprime lending" in the market place. A large number of subprime mortgages are not in default.

The housing industry, as others on the panel pointed out, led the way for economic growth in the late 90s through 2006; is a main reason the economy has been so negatively impacted the past year; and will be a main factor in our country’s ability to overcome the economic downturn. With housing prices on the decline and mortgage rates relatively low, now is a prime opportunity for home ownership. We need to encourage and educate as many people as possible on the benefits and responsibilities of homeownership. At the same time, ensure there are a variety of prudent financial options available. There are many responsible, hard working people who don't qualify for a conventional mortgage, yet deserve the opportunity to become a home owner.

From Barrier's point of view; consumer confidence, regulation on speculative/fraudulent investments, and responsible access to mortgage funds, are critical to support a steady recovery of the residential housing industry. This is a prime opportunity for many to seek first-time homeownership.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulative panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board

Texas - more wildfire damage than California?

FS-World magazine recently released an interesting article on wildfires in Texas. Officials are warning that Texas could soon surpass California in wildfire damage. Texas - from the Gulf Coast to the Panhandle - is in the midst of a high risk fire season. Heavy summer rains produced vast amounts of grass that have since died/dried over the winter and will provide significant fuel.

According to the Texas Forest Service, there are currently over 35 counties in Texas that are under Red Flag Warnings as the conditions for wildfires are prime (strong cold fronts and gusty winds moving in). There are 153 counties with burning bans in place and 5 counties with disaster declarations. Officials warn this season could exceed the 2005-06 disaster that claimed 19 lives, 734 homes, and over 2 million acres.

Barrier has identified Texas as a region that can benefit extensively from Blazeguard and Pyrotite technology in both multifamily residential roof deck construction and commercial modular applications. We currently ship Mule-Hide FR Deck Panel into the region for commercial modular construction. Finding a sales representative for the residential roof deck market is a priority over the next six months. Feel free to contact us if you're interested.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulative panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board

There is a glimmer of light in Minnesota...and the national Multifamily Market?

The BATC (Builders Association of the Twin Cities) released their new year housing outlook. "We are in an industry that fluctuates through cycles," says 2007 BATC President Michael Noonan. "As we enter 2008, it is likely that we are nearing the end of trending downward. With standing inventory drawn down, stable interest rates, and minimal new activity, the new home market should be in a position that is leveling-off from correction."

In addition, the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) released forecast data for the Multifamily Housing Sector. They are predicting a gain in Multifamily Housing starts of roughly 75 million throughout 2008.

Barrier believes the residential roof deck market is already slowly but steadily improving. We don't believe it will be as dramatic of an upswing as it was a downswing, however; we are bullish about 2008.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulative panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board

SIPS Manufacturer Plant Tour

Earlier this week, key members of Barrier's management and sales team had the privilege of meeting with the President and owner of Extreme Panels Technology, Inc. and his key executives. Terry Dieken personally guided us on a tour of his facility, and showed us how he has developed his business to meet the needs of the Structurally Insulative Panel market. Both parties share the opinion that the Blazeguard product can be an important part of the SIPs industry offering. Terry is also Vice President of SIPA, which is the national organization of structurally insulative panel builders. Barrier is planning a presence at their upcoming trade show in March (14-17) to bring more awareness to our product solution for the code required thermal barrier SIPs panels must meet.

Barrier continues to be excited about the opportunity presented by the SIPs market and the ideal match between Blazeguard and the needs of SIP manufactures. We will continue to keep you posted on the development of this business as it unfolds. Stay tuned!Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulative panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board, SIPs

Wildland Urban Interface Building Standards

Mike Huddy and Wayne Crutchfield, our external sales rep in California, attended a presentation sanctioned by the office of the California State Fire Marshall last week. The main topic of discussion was the emergency supplemental codes addressing special requirements for exterior wild fire exposure in wild fire prone regions.

Interestingly, the focus of these codes is prevention of ignition for the short duration of the flame front advance of a wild fire: as opposed to previous concerns with spread of flame, burn through resistance and smoke development once ignited. Blazeguard is a superior solution to meet not only the spread of flame, burn through resistance and smoke development requirements of the previous codes, but also an excellent choice for this new stringent requirement. Pyrotite's unique formulation releases water when exposed to the heat of fire. The water cools the surface of the panel, thus prevents ignition.

Several new product applications for pyrotite were identified by Mike and Wayne as a result of this seminar, reinforcing Barrier's decision to focus heavily on the California market.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulative panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board

Japanese Investors Stepping into the MultiFamily Market

An interesting article was published on Multi-Housing News..."Japanese Investors Seek U.S. Multifamily Opportunities." Currently in Japan, the real estate market is oversaturated, whereas here in the US we continue to face a soft housing market. That, coupled with incredibly low interest rates (3.2% vs. the 7% in the US), has led a Japanese real estate development firm (Nomura Real Estate Development) to seek multifamily and commercial investment opportunities in the US - most specifically- in the New York area. The areas they took most interest were regions similar to the suburbs of Tokyo...metro areas with good school districts.

If Japan indeed does start investing in the US, it may be another key factor to keep the trend in multifamily housing growing.Fire-rated sheathing, town homes, multi-family construction, housing market, small cap, otcbb, ibtgf, barrier, blazeguard, mycoguard, fire-rated paint, intumescent paint, mold, mildew, fire-retardant plywood, frt, sips, structurally insulative panels, fire-rated wall assemblies, commercial modular, modular home construction, green building products, LEED, control room, electrical panel backer board