“Of all the entrants, Evolve Stone is not only a unique and innovative product but solves a big issue of moisture intrusion and meets new code requirements with minimum labor.”
It’s what one of the judges had to say about the Best in Show Winner, Evolve Stone, at the 2022 Best of IBS Awards. Winners were announced on the final day of the NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) in Orlando, Florida.
Best in Show Winner: Evolve Stone by Evolve Stone
Using technology and innovation Evolve Stone delivers a high-performing, beautiful stone veneer that is simply installed with a finish nailer – surpassing the competition in value, ease and design. Formulated from patented Evolve Material, it is the very first stone cladding that can be face nailed in the same fashion as traditional siding, uses all the cutting tools that are already in the siding/trim/deck installers bag and reduces installation time and skilled labor needed dramatically.
“Given the shortage of skilled masons and the demand for realistic stone for both interior and exterior use, manufacturers have been scrambling to develop an authentic looking, easy to install, jobsite friendly “stone” siding product. In this judge’s opinion, Evolve Stone checks all the boxes. It looks and feels like real stone. It is easily installable with a nail gun and finish nails. It cuts like wood and is impervious to moisture. A beautiful product that, provided the price is right and is readily available, will likely be a big hit. This is a true game-changing product,” said Rick Schumacher, Best of IBS Awards judge and Executive Editor & Publisher of LBM Journal.
“It is extremely user friendly for all skill types from DIY to professionals,” said Best of IBS Awards judge Wes Robbins and Chief Marketing Officer of Quick Tie Products.
The onsite judges were also impressed that Evolve Stone is lightweight and would be easy to install with no special tools needed.
2022 Best of IBS Show Winners
NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) recognizes outstanding building products and services from the companies exhibiting at the show.
Over 200 product submissions were reviewed by 24 judges this year. The judges awarded winners in eight categories.
Other award winners:
- Best Energy Efficient Product: SPAN Gen 2 Smart Panel by SPAN
- Best Home Technology Product: SPAN Gen 2 Smart Panel by SPAN
- Best Indoor Product: Flush Mount Pantry Door by Murphy Door Inc.
- Best Kitchen & Bath Product: Swidget 20/40/60 Control Switch by Swidget Corp.
- Best Outdoor Product: Decorative Screen Panels by Barrette Outdoor Living
- Best Window & Door Product: Panolock Multi-Point Lock by Endura Products Inc.
- Most Innovative Building Material: Evolve Stone by Evolve Stone
- Most Innovative Construction Tool: Timberline Solar Energy Shingles by G.A.F. Energy
“The innovation and sustainability of the entries were much more evident in all aspects of products and services, but the biggest take away I saw from a judging standpoint was the efforts to create products that were easy to install for contractors and the ease of use for the end user,” said Pat Coveny, Best of IBS Awards judge and president and owner of Arch Construction Management Inc.
For more information about the Best of IBS Awards, visit BuildersShow.com/BestOfIBS.