CA Firefighters Mourn Loss of Two Men Fighting the Station Fire and 18 Homes Are Burned Down

This is a very sad day for California and our Firefighters, with 2 men lost in an accident while driving down a windy, narrow road. With 18 homes lost and a fire that is nearly out of control due to wind, steep terrain and dry vegetation, more homes could be lost.

Please say a prayer for the families and friends of our 2 lost firemen, may they rest in peace.

Read more at the LA Times by clicking here...

Our New Website Has Arrived!

Check it out today! WWW.DECKEXPERT.COM
All new design, easy to navigate, and best of all, optimized for every browser.

Thanks to Valerie Spencer, my designer...

Three spaces are available at the top of each page for advertisers...call me for rates at 805-801-2380.

Waterproofers in NJ Are a Tough Breed...This Robber Tangled With Grandma and Got Roughed Up!

Fiesty is just one word to describe a 78-year-old woman who was robbed and beaten at work Tuesday by a teenager posing as a job applicant in Clifton, New Jersey.

Not only did she fight back, she was also back at work Wednesday. Her boss says she hasn't missed a day of work in 16 years.

"Bother me and I'm gonna fight," Delores Dolan said.

Her friends call her Dee, and she is no shrinking violet.

She's tough, and at 78, she was not about to be the victim of a robbery.

Police say 18-year-old Darwin Rivera found that out the hard way. On Tuesday, the Clifton grandmother was the Rivera's target. She was at work in a back room office of the waterproofing company she works for.

Authorities say Rivera walked in and, at first, said he wanted a job. But Delores says he was really after something else.

READ THE REST BY CLICKING HERE

Freud Introduces the New Diablo Mixers for Superior Durability and Performance in the Construction Market

Calling all Deck Coating Contractors-check these tools out!

Press Release

Freud America, Inc., a premier manufacturer of superior cutting and power tools, has announced the launch of the Diablo Mixers for the construction market. The new Diablo Mixers are specifically designed to give users the safest, easiest, and most controlled way to mix solutions on construction sites. These Mixers provide the versatility to comfortably mix a variety of high and low viscosity solutions.

Mixers on the market today are typically half inch drills. These drills are not designed for mixing applications and thus provide poor ergonomics and limited control. Diablo’s new Mixers combine power with increased comfort and control for the best solution for mixing on a construction jobsite. The Diablo Mixers feature electronic cruise control which keeps paddle at constant RPM, soft-start which reduces start up torque, an electronic regulator to stop paddle rotation in event of overload, and an ergonomic steering wheel handle design to provide the user ultimate control and comfort in mixing applications.

"We are excited about providing the contractor market with a dedicated mixer which is durable, safe, and easy to use," states Eric Baker, Director of Product Development – Power Tools of Freud America, Inc. "These mixers provide a demonstrable performance advantage over current solutions resulting in more efficient mixing, reduced user fatigue, and a more productive jobsite."

The new Diablo Mixers are versatile for all types of mixing including concrete, stucco, leveling compounds, filing compounds, waterproofing compounds and more.

The Diablo Mixers are available in 7amp and 13 amp models and include unique features such as:

• Electronic cruise control keeps paddle at constant RPM
• Electronic regulator stops paddle rotation in event of overload
• Speed control dial ensures mixing speed is set properly
• Ergonomic steering wheel design provides ultimate control and comfort in mixing applications
• Soft start reduces start up torque and reduces splashing of material
• 2 speed gear box on the 13 amp model
• 5 Year Limited Warranty

Settlement Due Today Between Life Paint vs. Paul Koury/Pacific Pebbles Is Delayed 10 More Days

Document #102, dated today, was filed at Santa Ana's US District Court, seeking delay of the settlement for another 10 days.

Life Paint and Paul Koury/Pacific Pebbles apparently have settled a number of items, according to the filing, however the biggest sources of contention relates to the complicated issues of trademarks, service marks and trade names.

A settlement is anticipated within the next 10 days as the parties have already sent documents to the other relating to the final issues.

We'll check in again on September 8th to see what has occurred...stay tuned!

SOURCE AT ICC-ES Tells Deck Expert "Classified Roofing System" Press Release is "Partially in Response to Concerns Over Westcoat's ICC-ES Report"

The letter written by Paul Koury (above) last year is incorrect according to this press release from ICC. Only systems evaluated by ICC-ES are recognized...so the addition of a little WP-40 does significantly change everything as it becomes an un-evaluated system....

Classified Roofing Systems

Please be advised that any changes to components of a classified roofing system, as described in an ICC-ES evaluation report, negates ICC-ES recognition of the classification. The changes may or may not affect the actual classification, but until they are subjected to appropriate testing or are evaluated by a testing agency and declared to be acceptable under the designated classification, ICC-ES is unable to make a determination as to proper classification.

ICC-ES does not offer an opinion on changes to a recognized product or system until evidence has been submitted, evaluated, and recognized in the evaluation report. Fire-resistive assemblies are recognized by ICC-ES only as described in the applicable evaluation report. Assemblies made up of different components than those described in the evaluation report are not recognized.


On Friday afternoon I had a conversation with a source at ICC-ES in regards to Westcoat Specialty Coating Systems ALX System and their use of their ICC-ES Evaluation report #2201. Confirming my suspicions, My source confirmed that this press release was partially in response to the debacle over the Westcoat ICC -ES report.

For those not familiar with the issue at hand, the ALX system, when installed in the manner prescribed in Westcoat's ICC report, has a Class A fire resistance rating.

However, Westcoat's published instructions for assembly of the ALX system does not follow the same method of assembly instructions as listed in the ICC report. Westcoat specifies the required use of "WP-40" a peel n stick waterproofing membrane used on roofs. The WP-40 is not listed by ICC-ES as suitable for use on the type of assembly Westcoat makes, therefore, it's use on a building where a Class A assembly is required negates the Westcoat ICC report.

Simply put, if you need a Class A assembly for your roof or deck and Westcoat is what they want to put down, you won't get the fire rating if your contractor uses WP-40 as Westcoat's instructions say to.

I recommend that you play it safe and use another product without any controversy around it...the ALX system sold by Westcoat has other, better alternatives such as Pli-Dek, Life Deck, Desert Crete, Enduro-Kote, Mira-cote, and AVM Industries that will also give you a One Hour Rated system as well.

APRA's Monthly Newsletter Available Now Online!

APRA is an association of Reserve Professionals for HOA's, check out their newsletter for vital information and news on reserving funds for HOA's


Association of Professional Reserve Analysts (APRA) is the national trade association for those that carry the Professional Reserve Analyst (PRA) credential.
APRA provides a common base of knowledge, standards of care and professionalism. Membership to APRA is open to reserve study providers and affiliate service providers.
For membership information, go to www.apra-usa.com

The latest edition of APRA Advisor is available at www.apra-usa.com

IN THIS EDITION
Common Contract Clauses. Don’t sign one without them.
Ask the Professional Reserve Analyst. Advice worth heeding.
Protect Your Landscape Investment. Hire a pro, not the blow and go boys.
Picture Perfect Reserves. Aim, focus and start shooting.
Barkdust: Landscaper’s Friend. It cuts landscaping and water costs.
APRA 2009 Member Recognition. The list just keeps getting longer.

Richard Thompson PRA™
President - Association of Professional Reserve Advisors

ICC-ES Releases Press Release About CLASSIFIED ROOFING SYSTEMS

DIRECT FROM ICC-ES's Press Releases-

Classified Roofing Systems

Please be advised that any changes to components of a classified roofing system, as described in an ICC-ES evaluation report, negates ICC-ES recognition of the classification. The changes may or may not affect the actual classification, but until they are subjected to appropriate testing or are evaluated by a testing agency and declared to be acceptable under the designated classification, ICC-ES is unable to make a determination as to proper classification.

ICC-ES does not offer an opinion on changes to a recognized product or system until evidence has been submitted, evaluated, and recognized in the evaluation report. Fire-resistive assemblies are recognized by ICC-ES only as described in the applicable evaluation report. Assemblies made up of different components than those described in the evaluation report are not recognized.

Read the actual release at ICC-ES' website by clicking here.

The way I'm reading this, it's a direct rebuttal regarding Westcoat's ALX system, which the manufacturer sells/installs in direct contradiction to their ICC-ES report #2201.

Any manufacturer, including Westcoat, who makes a fire resistive assembly for roofs, that changes the way it is assembled/installed with the components called for in the report, NEGATES the roof classification.

Seems pretty simple...so why does ICC-ES let Westcoat's report live? It's a bogus report that Westcoat never had any intention of following/selling to it's clients. They always intended and have sold WP-40 with their system.

ICC-ES Please oh please do your duty and PROTECT THE PUBLIC! This issue will not go away until you do...and the longer you continue to deny/delay/refuse to address, the more I think you have some culpability...but that's just my opinion.

Mer-Krete Systems Launches Hydro Guard SP-1 Waterproofing Membrane

08/18/2009

ANAHEIM, CA -- ParexLahabra, the parent company of leading building material brands; Parex, LaHabra, El Rey Stucco, Teifs, Mer-Krete Systems and Mer-Ko, announced the launch of Mer-Krete Hydro Guard SP-1, a "Green" waterproofing membrane.

Hydro Guard SP-1, a rapid-drying thin, load bearing waterproof and crack isolation membrane, is composed of modified elastomeric co-polymers. With excellent elongation, adhesion and high strength properties, the product is light green when applied and develops to a emerald green when dry. Hydro Guard SP-1 provides a 100% waterproof membrane that limits the transfer of substrate cracks to the finished ceramic or stone tile surface. Hydro Guard SP-1 is installed in a liquid state and can be applied to practically any form or irregular shape forming a monolithic waterproof barrier.

"Hydro Guard SP-1 is a GREEN, low VOC, rapid drying waterproofing membrane developed to provide installers with application ease, LEED complaints, project versatility, and speed in both drying and flood testing", said Mark Cooke, Brand Manager for Mer-Krete Systems. "Hydro Guard SP-1 is the only product you need to achieve waterproofing and crack isolation protection. You can save time, save cost and literally go Green."

Hydro-Guard SP-1 is for use in commercial buildings, residential housing and other areas requiring positive waterproofing like pools, fountains, spas, hot tubs, kitchens, countertops, balconies, tub surrounds, shower stalls and pans, under terrazzo, quarry, ceramic and stone tile. This membrane can be installed over any sound substrate, vertically or horizontally, interior and exterior.

"There has been a lot of excitement for the launch of Hydro Guard SP-1". remarked Tim McDonald, Vice President of Sales for Mer-Krete Systems. "We didn't take out what made our products good. We added new technology that makes our products great!"

About Mer-Krete Systems
Mer-Krete Systems is a brand of ParexLahabra, Inc., the US based parent company of leading building material brands; Parex, La Habra, El Rey, Teifs, Surewall, Mer-Krete and Mer-Ko. Under these brands ParexLahabra, Inc. manufactures EIFS, stucco, acrylic finishes, tile-setting and waterproofing materials for the construction of commercial, institutional and residential buildings. The 2002, ISO 9001-2000 certification helped to substantiate ParexLahabra, Inc. as a leader in the building materials industry with over 150 years of combined experience in the US construction industry. For more information regarding Mer-Krete Systems or ParexLahabra, Inc. visit www.merkrete.com and www.parexlahabra.com respectively.

Deck Expert Says Westcoat ALX CSI Spec " is No Bueno" , that it Does Not Meet ASTM 108/119 as assembled in the Spec.

Here's a email I sent to CSI complaining about the Westcoat ALX "CSI Specification" that I believe to be misleading...the assembly procedure uses WP-40, which is not an ICC evaluated part of their fire rated assembly procedure.

Hello Roger,

Not sure if you are the right person for this complaint, if not pass it on please…

I’m complaining about a manufacturer in my industry, Div 7 Traffic Coatings, who is listing at their website a “CSI Specification”. You can see it at the link below.

http://westcoat.com/downloads/ALX-Westcoat-Pedestrian-Traffic-Coating-Spec-CSI.pdf

Westcoat Specialty Coatings of San Diego manufacturer’s a decking system called ALX. They have a ICC-ES report, however the report differs in the way the product is assembled according to Westcoat’s specs. See Westcoat’s assembly specs at this link http://westcoat.com/downloads/ALX_Standard_Spec_Sheet.pdf

Here you will see that they specify the use of “WP-40” under the system over the plywood seams, and for “maximum protection” to use WP-40 to cover the entire plywood substrate.

This CSI Spec and Standard spec assembly procedure is NOT what ICC-ES issued a report for, see ICC’s report at http://www.icc-es.org/reports/pdf_files/ICC-ES/ESR-2201.pdf

Where you’ll see the assembly procedure has no mention whatsoever about WP-40. ICC-ES has twice forced Westcoat to delete any reference to their report number on any literature that specifies or mentions the use of WP-40 as it wasn’t an evaluated piece of the assembly.

So, the CSI spec for ALX is grossly misleading, as they claim in the spec that the assembly as specified has met ASTM E 108 and E119. That sir, is a lie. There is no evidence whatsoever that this assembly mets any ASTM testing and in fact, with the use of WP-40, makes the system vulnerable to fires as the WP-40 is not an evaluated product for this type of use. WP-40 is privately labeled by Protectowrap Corp for Westcoat, and is sold as RP-40 by Protectowrap. It’s evaluation report from ICC restricts it’s use on roofs to 16% or greater and is on;y for use on fire rated roofs when under concrete or clay tiles.

Here is the link to the ICC report for RP-40. Section 5.0 is where the restrictions are listed. http://www.icc-es.org/reports/pdf_files/ICC-ES/ESR-1557.pdf

By Westcoat publishing this spec for CSI spec writers to use is dangerous, fraudulent and could put CSI spec writers at risk for liability on a bad spec.

Please do your own research and ask your own questions of ICC-ES and Westcoat. They both know I’ve been Westcoat’s case about this issue for over a year and won’t be surprised by any inquiries..

I can be reached at 805-801-2380.

Sincerely,

Bill Leys

The Deck Expert

www.deckexpert.com

Construction Specifications Institute Seeking Speakers

Tell them the DeckExpert sent ya!

CSI Seeking Top-Notch Speakers

• By: admin
• On: 08/18/2009 01:08:01
• In: Potpourri
• Views: 42
• Comments: 0

You're an expert in your field and you know others could learn from you. Give them the knowledge they need and earn the recognition you deserve! CSI's distance learning programs rely on volunteer speakers in the industry to provide quality education programs at affordable prices.

There is no travel required, the time commitment is minimal and you can present from the comfort of your own home or office. We are currently looking for speakers on a number of topics including:

• Integrated Project Delivery
• Building Information Modeling (intermediate/advanced-level topics)
• Construction Litigation/Legal Issues
• Building Envelope and Vapor Drive
• ADA Common Mistakes
• What the Owner Wants from Architects and Engineers
• Design-Build
• Owner Perspectives
• Fire Compartmentalization
• Digital Specifications
• Active vs. Passive Fire Protective Systems
• Masonry Issues
• Specification Writing
• Advanced Fenestration
• Green Roofs

If you have a presentation on one of these topics or on another you think would be of interest to CSI's audience, contact education@csinet.org with more information. Your knowledge can help CSI lead the construction industry to work safer, faster, and more efficiently!

Elite Crete Announces it's Training Schedule for All 50 States

Elite Crete has nationwide training classes...check out the schedule for the opportunity to learn new techniques and increase your business!

You are Invited to our Decorative Concrete Training Seminar Learn decorative concrete from the professionals. These training seminars are two full days and completely hand-on. View the complete training agenda. View photos of previous training seminars. Find a training office near you and sign up today. August and September Decorative Concrete Trainings - Arkansas: Hot springs - September 25 & 26 - California: Sacramento - August 28 & 29 or September 25 & 26 Los Angeles - August 28 & 29 Simi Valley - September 11 & 12 Temecula - Dates coming soon - Colorado: Denver - September 25th & 26th Pueblo - Dates coming soon - Florida: Fort Myers - August 21 & 22 or September 18 & 19 Orlando - August 21 & 22 or September 18 & 19 - Idaho: Boise - Dates coming soon - Illinois: Crestwood - August 20 & 21 or September 17 & 18 - Indiana: Indianapolis - August 14 & 15 or September 18 & 19 - Kentucky: Lexington - August 21 & 22 or September 11 & 12 - Maryland: Cambridge - August 21st & 22nd or September 18th & 19th - Michigan: Detroit - August 14 & 15 or September 25 & 26 - Minnesota: Minneapolis - August 28 & 29 or September 25 & 26 - Missouri: Kansas City - August 14 & 15 or September 18 & 19 - Montana: Bozeman - Dates coming soon - Nebraska: Lincoln - August 29 & 30 or September 26 & 27 - Nevada: Las Vegas - Dates coming soon - New York: New York City - Dates coming soon - North Carolina: Charlotte - August 21 & 22 or September 18 & 19 - Ohio: Columbus - August 28 & 29 or September 25 & 26 Cleveland - Dates coming soon - Oregon: Portland - August 21 & 22 or September 18 & 19 Pennsylvania: Philadelphia - August 14 & 15 or September 25 & 26 - Texas: Dallas - September 17 & 18 Houston - August 28th & 29th or September 25th & 26th - Wisconsin: Milwaukee - August 13 & 14 or September 10 & 11 - Canada Brantford, Ontario - August 21st & 22nd or September 18th & 19th Montreal, Quebec - September 25th & 26th Toronto, Ontario - August 21st & 22nd Vancouver, British Columbia - August 14th & 15th or September 18th & 19th

For additional information, visit us online at www.elitecrete.com

Deck Expert Challenges Westcoat to a Fire Test, Questions CSI spec they published

Deck Expert has challenged Westcoat's CSI spec and asked about their ASTM testing they claim in the spec...ICC made Westcoat drop any reference to their ICC report in the CSI spec because it was deceptive...I believe it's still deceptive.

I posted direct at Westcoat's blog this morning this post you can read below...


Your CSI spec references that the product meets the ASTM E 119 and ASTM 108 Fire Tests; in the ICC report, there is no reference to any WP-40 being used and that report says ALX met the ASTM tests without WP-40 underneath it.

Did the ALX in the CSI spec have new testing done where ALX passed the ASTM tests with WP-40 under it?

Otherwise you would be lying and misleading the public, architects and CSI with a spec that in fact does not meet ASTM E119 or ASTM E108.

ICC had you remove any reference to their report number in this CSI spec so I think it's quite likely that this CSI spec is in fact a lie.

Rumors around say that your telling people that my video taped fire test used gasoline to get the results I got...

that's a lie too.

Here's my direct challenge-you build, in front of the TV camera's and industry people...RAMTECH, ICC-ES, building officials, fire dept, your peers, etc. , 2 mock-ups of the ALX system as they would be for ASTM 108/119 testing. One using your published spec with the WP-40 under the whole deck, one using the ICC spec with no wp-40 under it.

I'll bring the Class A burning brands and with the camera's rolling, let's burn them again.

Your choice of locations, time, date etc. Within the next 30 days...we can dispel all rumours, myths etc. You up for it?

Let me know, I can be reached direct at 805-801-2380. or email at Bill@deckexpert.com

From The People Who Bring You "The Blue Book", Comes A Contractors Showcase Sept 16th

You're invited to attend

Wednesday, September 16, 2009 3:00 – 6:00PM Radisson Hotel Fresno 2233 Ventura Street, Fresno, CA

The Blue Book welcomes all Subcontractors and Suppliers to join us for a free networking opportunity designed to help you meet and promote your company to participating local General Contractors!

Who will be exhibiting: Presidents, VP’s, Project Managers and Estimators representing your area’s General Contractors will be available to discuss upcoming local project opportunities for your company to bid.

Cost: FREE – You must provide 2 business cards to enter. Hors d’oeuvres and beverages included.

RSVP is required by 9/14/09. To register, simply click here. For more GC Showcases in your area this Fall, please go to www.thebluebook.com/showcaseinfo Questions? Call The Blue Book at 800-431-2584 and ask for the GC Showcase Department.

CV

Tremco Announces Custom Colors for Their 351 Decking System

From Tremco comes this news release on custom colors for the Tremco decking system...

Kimberly E. Rotsky
Tremco Commercial Sealants & Waterproofing
Phone: 216/766-5679
E-mail: krotsky@tremcoinc.com
www.tremcosealants.com


NEWS RELEASE
Now…Custom Colors on Demand for Vulkem® 351 Pedestrian Topcoat
BEACHWOOD, Ohio, (June 2, 2009) – Tremco Commercial Sealants & Waterproofing (CS&W) introduces an industry first for deck coatings – Custom Colors on Demand for Vulkem® 351 Pedestrian Topcoat. With this new offering, lead times are dramatically shortened, restrictive minimums are eliminated, and customers are guaranteed color consistency from pail to pail.
Traditionally, special color deck coating orders were manufactured in large batches made up of resins, pigments and tints, and because of this the customer was required to order a 50-gallon minimum. Now, with Tremco’s new Custom Color-on-Demand program, a neutral base can be made and stored at the manufacturing plant, and quantities as small as a five-gallon pail can be color tinted at the time a customer places an order.
As a result, the product can be produced within five days (after color match approval), where the industry standard is three to four weeks.
With state-of-the art computer dispensing technology, having color consistency throughout the job has never been easier. A new sophisticated color dispensing system allows the neutral base to be color tinted with absolute precision to match color formulas that were developed in Tremco’s Color Laboratory. A technologically advanced color computer ensures the color accuracy of the dispenser and checks it to the approved standard provided by the customer. The color computer measures the overall color difference – Delta E, and can compute a paste formula adjustment for a batch that is out of color specification, ensuring that the difference in color from pail to pail is always a Delta E measurement less than 1. (A less than 1 measurement means any difference in color is virtually imperceptible to the human eye.)

“Being able to provide a special color of Vulkem 351 to our customers on demand and in smaller
quantities puts special color ordering for deck coatings in a whole new league,” Tremco Commercial Sealants & Waterproofing President Chuck Houk stated.
Jobs no longer need to be on the line due to delays waiting for material to arrive at the site or because of inconsistency in color from one pail to the next.
Contact your local Tremco Sales Representative for more information on Tremco’s Custom Colors on Demand for Vulkem 351 Pedestrian Topcoat.

Tremco Commercial Sealants & Waterproofing (CS&W) is a world-leading supplier of deck coatings, sealants, passive fire control systems, glazing systems, air barrier systems and below-grade waterproofing systems for the commercial construction and restoration industries. With experienced sales representatives in most major markets throughout the United States and Canada, Tremco CS&W is positioned to provide assistance for specification development, application-specific product selection, problem-solving and assistance on site. Tremco CS&W is part of Tremco Incorporated, an RPM International Inc. affiliate company employing over 3,500 people in dozens of locations around the world.
#####

HOA's-The New Regenesis Report Is Now Out

HOA's need all the help they can get...Rich Thompson provides great information and articles at Regenesis; check it out at the link below for this months newsletter...

The Regenesis Report is a monthly newsletter published by The HOA Expert™ Richard L. Thompson.
This month’s edition can be viewed at www.Regenesis.net/TheRegenesisReportNational-Aug2009.pdf

IN THIS EDITION

How to Avoid Board Blowback. Play by the rules.
Ask the HOA Expert. Another set of intriguing Q&As.
The Role of the Secretary. It’s more important than you think.

Court Upholds Ban on Exclusive Cable Contracts.
8 Ways to Share the Good News. Cheap ways to communicate your HOA messages.Codes, Reports & Standards, Oh My! Subtle but important differences.
Pull Principle. Be the shepherd toward whom the flock moves.
Invictus. Bloody but unbowed.
Best Headlines. Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash.

SUBSCRIBE Regenesis.net is the world’s largest resource for homeowner association management information.
Besides a wealth of self help information, Gold Subscribers have unlimited consulting with Ask the HOA Expert™.
For details, go to www.Regenesis.net/SubscriberInformation.htm

ADVERTISE The Regenesis Report reaches 7000 homeowner association boards and managers nationwide each month.
For advertiser information, see www.regenesis.net/advertise.htm

Why not share The Regenesis Report with some one you love?

Rich Thompson
The HOA Expert™
www.Regenesis.net

Mer-Kote's Next Seminar Coming Sept 10th!

Attention Want To Be Mer-Kote Applicators-get certified by attending 2 seminars and meeting Mer-Kote's qualifcations by attending

Attention Mer-Ko Applicators-Keep your approved applicator status current by attending

September 10, 2009 Mer-Ko Fundamentals of Waterproofing Deck Systems
Location: 501 Van Ness Avenue, Torrance, CA (8AM - 3PM)

Seminar Descriptions

Fundamentals of Seamless Decking & Waterproofing Systems
This hands-on demonstration and seminar covers the methods and techniques you need to successfully install Mer-Ko's waterproofing and decking systems. Materials and application techniques used in Mer-Ko's waterproofing membranes, underlayments, pedestrian, vehicular and flat roof decking systems are reviewed, as well as basic project considerations, flashing details, and how to select the proper systems and topcoats for a project.

Decorative Coatings & Accents
This hands-on demonstration and seminar covers the methods and techniques you need to successfully install Mer-Ko's decorative coating systems. Materials and application techniques used in Mer-Ko's decorative coating line are reviewed, in addition to various accents and artistic affects (i.e., Antiquing Gels, Antique Release Agents, Kolor Packs, etc.).

---

Lunch is provided at all seminars in conjunction with interactive discussions on topics impacting project site efficiency and application success.

Upon completion of the seminar, new participants are eligible to complete the application process to become a Mer-Ko Currently Listed Applicator. For those who hold an active status as a Mer-Ko Currently Listed Applicator, attendance at any of these sessions qualifies for renewal of your status. Our Currently Listed Applicators enjoy access to Mer-Ko's complete line of waterproofing and decking systems, opening new doors of opportunity to offer high-quality systems that protect and beautify new construction, renovation, preservation, retro-fit and maintenance projects.

Join us for this exciting new seminar and position yourself to capitalize on new project opportunities!

Register Online

Masterseal Corporation of San Clemente CA Becomes Approved Mer-Kote Applicator

David DiBaggio, President of Masterseal Corporation, let me know that his firm is now an approved applicator of Mer-Kote/Mer-Ko products.

Mer-Kote/Mer-Ko, a division of Parex La Habra, is a manufacturer of waterproofing, traffic coatings for decks and tile underlayment systems.

Masterseal, as an authorized applicator, can repair, install and maintain Mer-Kote decking systems with factory backed warranties, technical service and on site job inspections.

HOA's, Apartment communities, residential dwellings can now take advantage of Masterseals quality installations, dedication to service and competitive prices.

Call Dave today at 949-355-5031 for a free estimate on your Mer-Kote decking needs.

Masterseal services the Orange County, San Diego and LA area market.

Get a Free Subscription To Professional Deck Builder Here!

Here ya go, on me...

As a Professional Deck Builder subscriber you already know that it's the deck, dock, and railing contractor's #1 professional resource. We deliver the latest on new products, construction techniques, business management, sales & marketing, industry trends, and much more.

Here's your chance to extend this exclusive invitation for your colleagues to subscribe to Professional Deck Builder – free of charge.

Please forward this email to your colleagues. All they have to do is click on the button below and complete our short online qualification form. It's very fast and easy.

Life Paint vs. Paul Koury/Pacific Pebbles Update-Still Trying to Settle

On Friday July 31st, the 2 parties attorney's filed Document 100 and 100-2; asking the court to extend their deadline of July 31st for a final settlement out to August 25th.

According to the document, "the parties have diligently worked towards reducing their settlement to writing, have reduced their settlement but have been unable to resolve one remaining essential, non-monetary term notwithstanding each parties and counsel's best efforts to consummate settlement prior to this date; and

Whereas, the parties continue discussions with the intent to resolve the remaining term..."

So we wait a little longer, until August 25th, to see what skin Pacific Pebbles/Paul Koury has left...if it were me, I'd leave nothing but a few entrails for the scavengers...

Koury has the most to lose here, it seemingly apparent to any person who reads the case files that Westcoat/Pac Pebbles/Koury performed some dirty deeds in their quest to steal business and deceive the public. Life Paint should be lining up for a big monetary settlement in exchange for allowing Westcoat to live on.

New Issue of WATERPROOF! Magazine Out

The summer 2009 issue of Waterproof! Magazine is now in subscribers mailboxes...

This issue has great articles on Foam and Waterproofing, Solar Roofs and the waterproofing considerations neccesary when installing solar panels on a roof.

An interesting article about silicone sealants from Dow Corning being used on the Antarctica science station "Princess Elisabeth Station" shows the versatility of silicone in extreme environments.

Waterproofing contractors, general contractors, architects, manufacturer's and suppliers-I recommend that you get yourself a subscription. Call The publisher at 877-229-9174 with your info and credit card. One year is $20.00, two years is $35 or 5 years is only $50.00.