Book Helps Envision Architectural Finishes

The Graphic Standards Guide to Architectural Finishes: Using MasterSpec to Evaluate, Select and Specify Materials is designed to be an unbiased, single-source visual guide to product performance as well as current product standards established by various professional and government agencies.

Co-authored by the American Institute of Architects and Architectural Computer Services Inc., the 288-page book evaluates materials for characteristics such as fire and water resistance, energy efficiency, durability, affordability, environmental friendliness and aesthetics. It also looks at other material specifications, including product size as well as installation and maintenance data.

The book, published in August 2002 by John Wiley & Sons, costs $125. It can be ordered by calling 800/225-5945 or visiting www.wiley.com.