Question: Did you see any interesting new...

Question: Did you see any interesting new products at the recent Pacific Coast Builders Conference in San Francisco?

Answer: Yes, there were several. One of the companies that I have always liked has introduced two new products.

One is a counter-top dishwasher called “Husqvarna.” It is manufactured by Electrolux of Sweden and would be very useful, particularly for renters who do not wish to install a permanent dishwasher. It is housed in a stainless-steel cabinet and uses only a little over 3 1/2 gallons of water.

The other is a compact automatic washer/dryer combination that can wash up to 12 pounds of dry weight. Its dimensions are 34 inches high, 23 inches wide and about 21 inches deep.

Another useful product this firm has is a pop-out ironing board that folds up and fits into a drawer. The dealer in California is Water Inc., P.O. Box 3658, Manhattan Beach 90266.

A very convenient product is the Perma System type of awnings for residential and commercial usage. The system works on something very similar to the old-fashioned blinds. The awning can be rolled up by pushing an electric button or manually.

Also available were aluminum and copper shingles, which can be used as roofing material. The aluminum shingles come in a variety of different colors, such as red, brown, white and gray. These shingles cost about twice the price of ordinary high-quality shingles, can be quite attractive and easy for a roofing contractor to install. The manufacturer of this product is Reinke Shakes at 4415 Lovers Lane, Dallas, Tex. 75225.