Oldcastle Architectural, producer of concrete masonry products, has renamed its high-performance wall system with the new name of EnduraMax. 

The change -- the product was previously known as SureTouch -- better communicates its performance offering and reflects its place as a new perspective on a traditional product, the company said.

For about two years, the story at Stanley Black & Decker was never too far removed from the single word: “integration.” The merger of two tool giants was a natural topic for analysts, observers and customers.

During a product demonstration and media day in New York City this month, the story began to change back to another word: “innovation.” The company, as it unveiled dozens of new products at a New York City event this month, says it is beginning to gel across Stanley, Black & Decker, Bostitch, DeWalt and Porter Cable.

CalStar Products, a manufacturer of low-energy, low-CO2 masonry products, has hired Joel Rood as its new CEO. Rood has worked in the building products and materials industry for 15 years, most recently as general manager for CertainTeed Canada. He also served as general manager of the southern U.S. division at James Hardie Corp.

Rood’s previous positions also include assignments with Hilti and Schlumberger in the United States and internationally.

AZEK Building Products, a manufacturer of PVC-based molding, trim and decking, has entered into a strategic alliance with VAST Enterprises, a maker of composite masonry products. Under the agreement, AZEK Building Products has purchased an interest in VAST and will make the VAST brand available to AZEK's distribution network. AZEK and VAST will collaborate on sales and marketing initiatives to drive brand awareness among architects and contractors, according to the announcement.

The Masonry Veneer Manufacturers Association Design Awards recognized a variety of projects featuring masonry veneer on the interior or exterior of the project.

The program was created to recognize the work of industry professionals who are setting trends by featuring manufactured stone veneer in their projects. 

Owens Corning has signed an agreement to sell its masonry division, which makes Owens Corning Cultured Stone exterior siding, to Boral Industries in a two-part transaction, the company announced. 

The building products supplier will sell a 50% stake in its masonry products unit to Boral Industries for $45 million at closing, and the unit will then be operated jointly until early 2014. At that time, Owens Corning will sell its remaining 50% stake for $45 million and may receive additional proceeds dependent upon 2013 financial performance. 

New York-based Dumond Chemicals, maker of paint removal and stone and masonry cleaning products has announced the appointment of John Petroci as President and CEO affective immediately.

Petroci is replacing Hy Dubin, who announced his retirement after serving as president and CEO of the company for 29 years.

Petroci served as VP Sales and Marketing at Dumond since 2005.