This chapter has briefly described a variety of framing materials that could easily work on your next project. Perhaps you're ahead of the game and already know about or use some of these products. If so, congratulations. Either you're a conscientious builder or you're willing to try new things – or both. But don't stop here. Keep looking for and trying alternative materials and methods. Become an experienced professional.

For those who've not yet stepped off the conventional construction path, it's time to get your feet wet. You have so many more choices today than I had when I started over 20 years ago. The opportunities are waiting for you, but you have to make that first step. Remember, when some crazy company came out with big sheets of plaster sandwiched between paper and called it wallboard, a lot of builders wouldn't go near it. Lath and plaster works just fine for me, they said, shortly before being put out of business by younger guys who could rock a wall in minutes. Not every product will be right for you, but you won't know that until you try it. The key to success is to be willing to try something different. It's that simple. I hope something in this section was appealing enough that you'll run down to your local supplier and check it out!

Chapter 5 has some interesting roofing products that may fit right in with your next project. Some of the products might sound too good to believe, so contact the manufacturer for a sample. Seeing is believing . . .

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