Michigan Public Service Commission Tells Consumers Energy to Expand Solar Program

Decision is an Important Step in ELPC’s Effort to Grow Michigan’s Clean Energy Economy

The Michigan Public Service Commission directed Consumers Energy to expand its popular solar energy program, known as the Experimental Advanced Renewables Program (EARP). “This decision moves Michigan’s energy sector in the right direction,” Said Brad Klein, an attorney at the Environmental Law & Policy Center, which has advocated to expand the program. “A smart solar program can keep bills down while creating new jobs and new clean energy for Michigan.”

Consumers Energy had planned to freeze the solar program, which would have slowed solar energy development in Michigan, reduced the diversity of Michigan’s energy portfolio and cut off an important driver for economic growth.  ELPC worked with clean energy businesses in Michigan to advocate for an expansion of the solar program that would continue to create jobs and business growth with minimal impact on consumer bills.

The Public Service Commission agreed with ELPC, stating, “The continuation of the EARP will encourage private investment in renewable energy, accelerate the economic recovery in Michigan and will provide support for the state’s growing clean energy economy.”

The solar energy business in Michigan is thriving. ELPC’s recent report found that over 120 Michigan companies are providing 6,300 jobs in the solar industry. A well-designed solar program will help Michigan’s solar businesses continue to grow while providing a diverse and affordable supply of clean energy to Michigan.

The Public Service Commission’s decision is an important step forward for clean energy in Michigan, though some details of Consumers’ solar program still need to be addressed, especially the prices that will be offered to customers that install solar systems on their homes or businesses.  ELPC is looking forward to working with the Company and the Commission to ensure the Company’s renewable energy program is successful.

Wendy Buhr, owner of Ella’s vintage clothing shop on Front Street in downtown Traverse City, has made a living implementing smart, ecological business decisions. A lover of fashion and an active collector of the antique, Buhr opened Ella’s 12 years ago to support her habit.

“Ella’s started as a vintage store and evolved into a high-end boutique that seeks out designers whom are inspired by vintage and have their designs made with integrity,” said Buhr.

From its creation, Buhr has worked to make Ella’s as eco-friendly as possible, beginning with recycling almost everything and utilizing the Bay Area Recycling Center (BARC).  With the implementation of green cleaning products, recyclable packaging and a new addition of composting coming soon, Ella’s makes every effort to lessen their impact on the environment.

In her latest eco-savvy move, Buhr installed Pure Energy LED lighting in her shop, embracing the new technology for its financial and environmental benefits.

“Switching over to LED lighting has helped us use only a third of our prior energy consumption.” said Buhr, “Comparing January 1 through February 28 this year to last year, our electric expense is down by 36.9%.”

After finding herself throwing away so many light bulbs that were unable to be recycled, Buhr began researching lighting options that would emulate the output of a halogen bulb while saving her money, energy and the hassle of constantly changing fried bulbs. The addition of LED bulbs met all of her criteria.

“The initial investment was big, but knowing that we won’t have to buy a light bulb for 11 years, and the fact that our electric bill dropped so dramatically, it was not a problem,” said Buhr.

Buhr also utilized the Traverse City Light & Power Energy Smart Rebate Program, a fast and easy incentive that made the switch a “no-brainer” for the shop.

On your next stroll of downtown Traverse City be sure to stop by Ella’s at 209 E Front St. to see the LEDs in action, and remember that vintage shopping is just another way to recycle! Call or stop by Eco-Building Products to find out how your home or business can join the movement and benefit from LED lighting as well.

Eco-Building Products » LED Lighting

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VIRIBRIGHT LED Lights 11W E26 Warm Bulb
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VIRIBRIGHT LED Lights 5W E26 Warm Bulb
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VIRIBRIGHT LED Lights 2ft 10W T8 Tube Warm
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VIRIBRIGHT LED Lights 3ft 15W T8 Tube Warm
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VIRIBRIGHT LED Lights 4ft 20W T8 Tube Warm
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HI-Power PAR 30 LED Lights
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HI-Power PAR 20 LED Lights
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HI-Power PAR 38 LED Lights
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HI-Power LED Cup Lights
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DIP LED A-Lamp Light Bulb
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VIRIBRIGHT LED light bulbs are the newest edition to the line of energy conscious and competitively priced LED lighting solutions from Eco-Building Products. With a unique combination of technology, affordability and longevity, VIRIBRIGHT LEDs are a smart choice for an earth-friendly lighting alternative. Available in convenient 5W A-Lamp and 20W T8 Tube sizes, VIRIBRIGHT LEDs are a truly energy and environmentally conscious alternative for lighting your home or office.

Compared to their incandescent counterparts, VIRIBRIGHT LEDs use up to 80-90% less energy per bulb, translating into significant energy and cost savings for the consumer. The LEDs even outperform compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) by 50% in energy savings. The energy advantage is made possible by LED technology that creates very little heat, with most of the energy created going directly to the creation of light. This eliminates the heat build-up that commonly occurs in other bulbs and subsequently drives the cost of energy up.

VIRIBRIGHT LED light bulbs feature a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty, as well as boasting a lifespan up to 6-years, or more than 20,000 hours of usage. Free of mercury and other hazardous materials, VIRIBRIGHT LEDs have been awarded both UL and CE certifications for safety.

Stop by our showroom today to see VIRIBRIGHT LEDs on display and in use, or explore the product pages below for more information.

Eco-Building Products » VIRIBRIGHT

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VIRIBRIGHT LED Lights 5W E26 Warm Bulb
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VIRIBRIGHT LED Lights 11W E26 Warm Bulb
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VIRIBRIGHT LED Lights 2ft 10W T8 Tube Warm
$239.88Price:
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VIRIBRIGHT LED Lights 3ft 15W T8 Tube Warm
$341.88Price:
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VIRIBRIGHT LED Lights 4ft 20W T8 Tube Warm
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Marmoleum Click is a natural product made primarily from renewable resources, including linseed oil, wood flour and pine rosins. Click’s inherent anti-static properties repel dust and dirt, making it easy to clean, reducing exposure to allergens and contributing to better indoor air quality. The flooring “clicks” together for an easy, glueless installation so there are no chemicals or coatings with fumes and gases.

These features make Marmoleum Click the first flooring product to be awarded the asthma & allergy friendly ™ Certification Mark! Marmoleum Click also features anti-microbial properties that halt the breeding of harmful micro-organisms, including MRSA and C-difficile.

Not only does Marmoleum Click help create a healthy environment, it also creates a beautiful environment. Available in 24 colors ranging from soothing neutrals or vibrant bolds, Marmoleum Click makes it easy to create inviting spaces that are unique to your home and lifestyle. Marmoleum Click provides, beauty, durability, warmth and comfort underfoot, and is ideal for kitchens, livings rooms, hallways, bedrooms and offices.

Marmoleum Click is produced of natural linoleum on water-repellant HDF with a cork layer backing for an ecologically and acoustically sound solution. The panels are squares “click” into place using the Valinge locking system for a secure, glueless installation. The panels are approximately 12” wide and 36” long and can be used alone or in combination with the 12” by 12” squares. Also, since no glue is required, the floor can be walked on immediately after installation.

Studies have shown that harmful micro-organisms cannot live or breed on Marmoleum Flooring, which makes it the only flooring choice for those concerned about their health and environment. From Marmoleum Click’s natural ingredients to its glueless installation, you won’t find ANY harmful substances in Marmoleum, including lead or chlorine. The result is a biodegradable floor that has reduced allergen levels, is bacteria-resistant and easy to clean.

1. Marmoleum Click panels and squares are easy to install. With a simple tongue & groove mechanism, the panels simply “click” into place. And no glue is required, so the floor can be walked on immediately after installation.
2. Thanks to Marmoleum’s natural ingredients, Marmoleum Click is anti-static, so dust won’t cling to it. Keeping your floor clean and dust free is easily achieved by dust mopping and damp mopping.
3. Because it is so easy to clean, Marmoleum Click makes life easier for people with asthma, allergies and other respiratory disorders. Click is the first flooring product to be certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America as asthma & allergy friendly ™. For more information on the certification, please visit www.asthmaandallergyfriendly.com.  Marmoleum Click is also naturally bacteriostatic. Independently done lab tests show that Marmoleum Click inhibits the growth of many micro-organisms, including the MRSA strains of bacteria.
4. Because Marmoleum Click is a natural product, like wood, it makes your home snug and warm. It reaches room temperature quickly and is suitable to install over hydronic radiant heat systems. Marmoleum Click features a cork backing for quiet and comfort underfoot.
5. Available in 24 beautiful colors of panels and squares, Marmoleum Click allows you to create an environment unique to your home and lifestyle. Color-coordinating transition moldings are available to add the finishing touch.

Marmoleum Click has a strong, durable protective top layer—Topshield. This innovation from Forbo insures a highly effective shield against dirt and scuff marks. Marmoleum with Topshield is ready for use immediately following installation and does not require the application of additional protective coats of finish. With Topshield, your Marmoleum floor will maintain its beautiful appearance with simple cleaning. Dry dusting is a fast and easy way to keep your floor free from loose dirt. Remove spots with a mop or cloth dampened with diluted Marmoleum Floor Cleaner. Avoid excessive use of water on the floor and make sure chair and furniture legs are covered with felt protectors.

Eco-Building Products » Marmoleum » Marmoleum Floating Click Tiles and Panels

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Marmoleum Click Tile and Panel Flooring
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Marmoleum Underlayment for Click
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Marmoleum Transition Molding for Click
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This winter, the Benzie Community Water Council will continue it’s formal introduction to the surrounding areas with the celebration of the Benzie County Water Festival. After a series of successful satellite events in the local area, the Water Council aims to spread it’s message through education, engagement and celebration for all ages.

On March 19, 2011, the 1st Annual Benzie County Water Festival will take place in the Frankfort area. Featuring world-class musicians, speeches, interactive presentations, artisan foods, children’s activities and much more, the Water Festival will highlight the spectacular natural resource that surrounds northwest Michigan.

“The Festival will be our main introduction to the community,” said Jordan Bates, Co-Chair of the Benzie Community Water Council. “By bringing in well-known water luminaries and musicians, and by providing the opportunity for exhibits, children’s activities, art shows and so on, we think we will be very successful in celebrating water, raising awareness and protecting our water for the common good.”

The mission of the Benzie Community Water Council is to insure that the waters of the county and the northwest corner of Michigan remain subject to the public trust doctrine, and are thus preserved and protected for the common good of the peoples and ecosystems they serve. The Council aims to work with any citizen groups and government entities committed to the common purpose of maintaining safe, clean and plentiful water for the equitable use of people, animals and plants.

These sentiments, often echoed throughout the community, will be given unification by the Water Festival. ”Benzie County is rich in natural resources. It is a lifeblood of our economy, our social lives and our spiritual lives,” said Bates. “Managing this wealth is logical and insures we have a beautiful, rich future.”

The Water Council focuses on this sense of community and shared ownership when it comes to this precious resource. “It isn’t something that sits in a bank,” said Bates, “it is something that enriches our lives everyday.”

Several events for the Benzie County Water Festival are free of charge, including events scheduled at the Frankfort Elementary School and the Garden Theatre. The Benzie Bus will also be available to shuttle residents and visitors from several locations around the county. For more information on events, schedules or to make a donation to the Benzie County Water Festival, please visit www.water-festival.org, or follow the Water Festival on Facebook for breaking news.

Eco-Building Products is proud to support the Water Festival by donating a portion of our in-store sales from the month of March. Stop in today to help us make a difference.

Eco-Building Products is happy to announce the addition of Vermont Natural Coatings to our line of natural, non-toxic finishes and cleaners. Vermont Natural Coatings utilizes PolyWhey to create a safe, durable and easy-to-use finish that meets the highest professional and environmental standards.

PolyWhey is the new generation of polyurethane, a truly waterborne finish that is an integral part of VNC’s ongoing agricultural focus: to find better methods for common tasks using surrounding resources. By displacing the toxic components traditionally found in wood finishes with this recycled whey protein, Vermont Natural Coatings has created a neutral odor, quick-drying and easy-to-clean family of tough, earth-friendly finishes for all interior and exterior wood surfaces.

The patented natural wood finish is an important step forward over existing water-based finishes, eliminating the need for heavy metal driers and displacing the toxic co-binders and carcinogenic solvents often found in past and present finishes. The whey in Vermont Natural Coatings’ products is a natural by-product of the dominant cheese-making agriculture of Vermont. By reusing as much of this by-product as possible in the creation of a high-quality home improvement product, farms and waterways stay clear of the excess whey.

Natural Wood Finish Offerings from Vermont Natural Coatings

Vermont Natural Coatings has your indoor air quality in mind when offering their PolyWhey Natural Floor Finish. This evolved clear coating uses recycled whey to create a durable and safe sealer and topcoat in one. In addition to new bare wood, VNC Natural Floor Finish can also be conveniently applied over both oil-based stain finish, as well as other waterborne finishes, with superior coverage.

PolyWhey Natural Furniture Finish inherits the same recycled whey properties as the Floor Finish and is recommended for bare wood or previously stained furniture, trim, cabinets, paneling, tabletops and doors, as well as craft items. This stunning furniture finish is available in gloss, semi-gloss and satin finishes to meet all your wood furnishing needs.

Used in conjunction with PolyWhey Interior Floor or Furniture Finishes, VNC’s Woodtone Series Concentrated Tints are color-rich, fade resistant and will transform the look and feel of interior wood surfaces. These quick-mix tints have superior colorfast qualities, ensuring consistent tone throughout the project. The Woodtone Series are no-VOC and have no flash point, providing safe, professional color throughout the application and beyond.

Vermont Natural Coatings were created with exterior wood surfaces in mind as well. PolyWhey Exterior Wood Finish is a tough, element-repelling finish that creates a non-toxic and waterproof barrier. With advanced protection from mildew, mold and harmful UV rays, VNC’s Exterior Finish is safe for people and pets. Use on exterior wood decks, fences, railings, siding, outdoor furniture and other exterior wood surfaces for a durable, elegant finish.

Finally, to keep your Vermont Natural Coatings Finish looking its very best, VNC offers a specially formulated, ready-to-use Wood Cleaner. Removing dirt, dust, grease, grime, food and stains is a breeze with this innovative, non-toxic formula that keeps your home clean and safe. The biodegradable, vegetable-based cleaner is yet another example of VNC’s ongoing agricultural, locally-sourced focus. Used for daily or deep cleaning, VNC Wood Cleaner is also suitable for other surfaces such as tile, laminate and stone.

For more information on individual products or for technical information, explore the product pages below, or visit our showroom at 130 Hall St. in the Warehouse District of downtown Traverse City to view all the Vermont Natural Coatings offerings in person.

Eco-Building Products » Vermont Natural Coatings

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Vermont Natural Coatings PolyWhey Floor Finish
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Vermont Natural Coatings PolyWhey Exterior Wood Finish
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Vermont Natural Coatings PolyWhey Furniture Finish
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Vermont Natural Coatings Wood Cleaner
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The NMCAA Weatherization Program works hand-in-hand with qualified auditors like Zack Johnson of ROI Weatherization, to categorize and diagnose energy loss within the home. Eco-Building Products and Johnson recently discussed a family tradition of ecological care, the integral role the NMCAA plays in filling weatherization needs in northern Michigan, as well as Johnson’s company ROI Weatherization, which is available to service local homes and businesses in their energy auditing and contracting needs.

EBP: Tell us a little bit about yourself. How long have you been in the weatherization business?

ZJ: My name is Zachariah Johnson. I’ve been in the field of weatherization for about fifteen years now, not including a time of service in the US Coast Guard and some traveling of the country. I come from a family of hard-working middle class parents that had environmental and social causes in mind when raising my sister and I.

My mother is an art teacher in the Manistee school district and co-founder of the environmental organization AFFEW (A Few Friends for the Environment of the World). My father has owned a successful weatherization company in the southwest Michigan area for around 25 years and is the one who trained me in this niche business since I was 15 years old. My sister is also a weatherization inspector that works closely with the Southern Michigan Community Action Agency performing weatherization inspections/energy audits for low-income clientele.

EBP: How long have you been contracted with the NMCAA Weatherization program, and what has the experience been like?

ZJ: I’ve been working with NMCAA since early 2009, but have kept in contact, staying on their radar since 2003. I have only great praise for the folks that work inside the Weatherization program, from the office personnel to the field crews. I have two contracts as a weatherization inspector for the state working with both the NMCAA and SMCAA and can say that both agencies run tight ships, and rightly so as their goals are lofty and difficult to achieve.

EBP: What do you think is the significance of Weatherization assistance programs like these?

ZJ: I’ve seen first-hand the tremendous benefits of these programs. For instance, on average, after weatherizing a home, energy consumption goes down 15-44%. Calculating that with just above poverty level incomes of $1000-$2000 a month, and say those folks were paying $350 a month in winter for heat, then after work is completed they save on the high side of $150 each month. That translates to better food for the family, health care coverage or whatever is needed that was just out of reach before.

EBP: What are some common weatherization problems present in northern Michigan homes?

ZJ: As far as things I see on a daily basis doing inspections, I’d say a lack of insulation, air infiltration (leaks) and inefficient heating and cooling equipment rank near the top. I’d say 90% of the houses I inspect are in need of weatherization measures to some extent. When I look at a house I need to determine what it’s thermal envelope is and see if that envelope is sealed and insulated properly. If it isn’t, we find the most cost-effective way to remedy it.

EBP: What sets ROI Weatherization apart as people seek resolutions to their energy loss problems?

ZJ: ROI Weatherization is passionate and goal-oriented about reducing energy use, one home at a time. We work within all budgets to help achieve that goal. We use state of the art technology, coupled with advanced training, many years in the field and an ability to understand your home or commercial building to reduce your energy needs.

For more information on how you can begin the weatherization process for yourself or your business, or to contact Zack directly, visit www.roiweatherization.com.

As we approach the middle of winter in northern Michigan, the sting of cold on the faces, toes and wallets of residents is ever apparent. With a few weatherization fixes within the home, the sting of heating bills can be lessened and energy efficiency improved. But while the average home is in need of weatherization, temporary and permanent measures are at times out of reach.

This is where the Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA) has stepped in. The NMCAA is a non-profit Community Action Agency serving ten counties in northwest lower Michigan through programs such as Senior Nutrition, Meals on Wheels, Head Start and the Weatherization program.

The mission statement of the Weatherization program is simple: to reduce energy costs for low-income families by improving the energy efficiency in their homes, while ensuring their health and safety. With a particular focus on the elderly, those with disabilities and children, the program has successfully completed improvements to more than 10,000 homes over the last 35 years. With the relief of some of their energy costs, qualifying individuals are able to put money towards other necessities, such as medicine, food and clothing.

Diagnosing the problems in each home requires an energy audit, which is performed by a qualified auditor. In addition, local weatherization contractors perform the work, and in turn supply their materials locally, boosting the northern Michigan economy. Common weatherization improvements include attic, sidewall and foundation insulation, air infiltration and inspection of all combustion appliances. Permanent energy measures such as storm windows and appliance replacement are also implemented when necessary, all free of cost for the resident.

Program Director Gary Yankee has seen the annual funding for the program fluctuate from as many as 600 houses served per year, down to 80 houses. In April 2009, the NMCAA received a 3-year contract from the Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS) to weatherize 943 homes in cooperation with the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act.

“The problem is, we have accounted for 684 homes, with only 259 yet to be completed and have a waiting list of almost 1000 people across the 10 county service area. Since the regular program is for approximately 100 houses per year, this has created a waiting list that can be as long as 4-years in some counties,” said Yankee. “Obviously this shows a tremendous need for funding this program on the National level.”

While the waiting list continues to grow and more Michigan residents become recipients of this energy- and life-altering program, continued funding will keep the service active in the community. During the month of February, Eco-Building Products will donate 3.5% of our gross profit in our in store sales to the NMCAA to assist in the continuation of their mission of service.

For more details on the Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency and their Weatherization program, visit www.nmcaa.net/weather.asp or call (231) 346-2173.

Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus Natural Floor Finish is a revolutionary technology that requires only a single coating to complete a beautiful, natural wood floor. The line of zero-VOC oil finish, combines natural linseed oil and waxes to bring out the brilliance in your furniture, toys and other wooden surfaces, without the use of harmful chemicals. Available in 34 breath-taking colors, Rubio Monocoat provides distinct variety for all settings.

The one-coat system quickly pays for itself, with one liter of Monocoat Natural Oil covering an average of 400 sq. ft. in a single application. Compared to conventional finishes that require 3+ gallons and three applications to achieve the same result, Monocoat saves valuable time and money.

The single-coat system is made possible by a unique bonding formula. Rubio Monocoat adheres to the first microns of wood molecularly. Due to this molecular bonding, no surface film can form, and no variable saturation can occur. A single-coat is not just recommended, the finished wood simply will not accept a second coat. This unique fusion protects against overlaps and color variance and makes the single-coat process successful.

The ground-breaking new technology is not limited to interior surfaces. Exterior products like Monocoat Decking Oil 2C, Sun Primer and Siding Oil are also available to add the beauty of Rubio to your siding, outdoor furniture, fences and decks. Rubio Monocoat also offers a full range of products to ensure the durability and elegance of your wood surface remains over time. Raw Wood Cleaner, Natural Soap, Satin Soap and more will keep your floor or surface as beautiful as the day it went down. Explore the links below for more information on individual products and applications.

Eco-Building Products » Rubio Monocoat

• Rubio Monocoat Creative Effects (2)
• Rubio Monocoat Exterior Wood Finish (1)
• Rubio Monocoat Interior Wood Finish (10)

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Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus
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Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus 2C Quick Drying
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Rubio Monocoat Refresh Treatment Oil
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Rubio Monocoat Raw Wood Cleaner
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Rubio Monocoat High Traffic Protection
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Rubio Monocoat Surface Care Spray
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Rubio Monocoat Natural Soap
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Rubio Monocoat Soap Satin
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Rubio Monocoat Limespot Remover
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Rubio Monocoat Grease Remover
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Rubio Monocoat Exterior Wood Cleaner
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Rubio Monocoat Smoke Creative Effect
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Rubio Monocoat Fumed Creative Effect
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