BASEMENT REMODELING TREND REPORT REVEALS INCREASED INTEREST IN ALTERNATIVE FRAMING SOLUTIONS
Armstrong’s QuikStix Offers Advantage Over Traditional Framing Methods

LANCASTER, Pa. (Jan. 20, 2009) — A new report by the Specialists in Business Information (SBI) suggests that homeowners are being more selective when it comes to remodeling projects, opting for investments that add value to their homes and provide a better quality of life for their families. Basement remodels are at the top of the list, recouping 75 percent of the project cost according to SBI.

The SBI report, Trends and Opportunities in the U.S. Basement Remodeling Market, provides a comprehensive assessment of trends in the U.S. basement finishing market. SBI is a division of MarketResearch.com, the world's largest aggregator of syndicated market research reports. SBI’s report reveals that many homeowners will turn to remodeling the basement to increase square footage as an alternative to buying a new home. SBI details that the professional basement finishing market had a compound annual growth rate of 21 percent between 2005 and 2007 and the market is on track to outpace the overall remodeling industry through 2012.

Topping the list of trends is the increased use of products specific to the basement remodeling industry. A growing number of homeowners are searching for innovative products that help alleviate or solve many of the challenges of below-grade environments. SBI reports that the number one concern for basement owners is moisture — a major challenge unique to remodeling a home’s basement. Fortunately, product developments in waterproofing, mildew and mold control, and other challenges specific to basement finishing are giving builders and consumers the confidence to undertake these projects.

One such product is Armstrong Building Products’ QuikStix™, a drywall framing system intended for residential applications on walls, ceilings and soffits. QuikStix’s steel components do not support mold or mildew, are not combustible and will not warp or twist, unlike traditional wood framing methods.

“QuikStix solves several of the unique challenges presented by a basement remodel that traditional wood framing systems do not. QuikStix resists insects, rust, mold and water damage, and the system is easy to repair, if needed,” said Rich Wiley, associate marketing manager – Armstrong residential ceilings.

Fast. Easy. Green.
As an added benefit, QuikStix is simpler and easier to install than traditional framing methods, dramatically lessening time spent involved in the installation process. QuikStix’s ‘Twist-Click-Lock’ feature aids dimensional stability by minimizing measuring, simplifying framing tee layout and making the application of drywall to framing easier than ever.

“Consumers are seeking new products to create a healthy and safe environment in their basements,” said Wiley. “Builders who use QuikStix will differentiate themselves by providing peace of mind and helping their customers to make a sustainable, responsible choice in home building.”

Using a steel framing system also has environmental benefits. For example, QuikStix is made from 30 percent recycled steel and will last the life of the structure in which it is installed, creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly home.

As a complement to the QuikStix system, Armstrong also offers BioBlock®, an anti-microbial treatment designed to protect homeowners from the harmful effects of odor- and stain-causing mold and mildew. BioBlock is applied to many of Armstrong’s 2’ x 2’ and 2’ x 4’ suspended ceiling panels, including the company’s popular 1201 and 1205 Raised Panel HomeStyle® ceiling products, allowing homeowners to address moisture issues in their basements without compromising the architectural detail of the panels. The QuikStix framing system is also compatible with Armstrong’s WoodHaven® and Metallaire® decorative ceiling products.

QuikStix Drywall Framing System is available exclusively at select Lowe’s locations. For more information, please visit www.armstrong.com/quikstix. To view Armstrong’s line of residential ceiling products, visit www.armstrong.com.

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