GRIFFON CORP
10-K405, 1999-12-20
METAL DOORS, SASH, FRAMES, MOLDINGS & TRIM
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                                 UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, D.C. 20549

                                   ----------

                                   FORM 10-K

              [ X ] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
                    OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
                    For the fiscal year ended September 30, 1999
                                       or
              [   ]  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d)
                    OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
                    For the transition period from            to

                           Commission File No. 1-6620

                              GRIFFON CORPORATION

             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


           Delaware                                       11-1893410
(State or other jurisdiction of                       (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)                        Identification No.)

100 Jericho Quadrangle, Jericho, New York                   11753
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)                  (Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code:     (516) 938-5544


          Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         Name of Each Exchange on
          Title of Class                     which Registered
          --------------                 ------------------------

      <S>                                 <C>
      Common Stock, $.25 par value        New York Stock Exchange
      Preferred Share Purchase Rights     New York Stock Exchange
</TABLE>
          Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

                                      None


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the  preceding 12 months (or for such  shorter  period that the  registrant  was
required  to file  such  reports),  and  (2) has  been  subject  to such  filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No


Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent  filers  pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation  S-K is not contained  herein,  and will not be contained,  to the
best of registrant's  knowledge,  in definitive proxy or information  statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K [x].

State the aggregate market value of the voting stock held by  non-affiliates  of
the  registrant.  (The aggregate  market value shall be computed by reference to
the price at which the stock was sold,  or the average  bid and asked  prices of
such stock,  as of a specified date within 60 days prior to the date of filing.)
As of November 30, 1999 - approximately $225,000,000.

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant's classes of
common stock, as of the latest  practicable  date  (applicable only to corporate
registrants).  As of November 30, 1999 - 30,334,947.

Documents  incorporated by reference:  Part III - Registrant's  definitive proxy
statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A of the Securities  Exchange Act
of 1934.
<PAGE>
                                     PART I
                                     ------
ITEM 1 - BUSINESS
         --------

THE COMPANY

     Griffon is a  diversified  manufacturing  company with  operations  in four
business segments: Garage Doors; Installation Services; Specialty Plastic Films;
and Electronic Information and Communication Systems. The company's Garage Doors
segment designs and manufactures garage doors for use in the residential housing
and  commercial  building  markets.  The  Installation  Services  segment sells,
installs  and  services   garage  doors,   garage  door  openers,   manufactured
fireplaces, floor coverings,  cabinetry and a range of related building products
primarily for the residential  housing market.  The company's  Specialty Plastic
Films segment develops,  produces and sells plastic films and film laminates for
use in infant diapers,  adult incontinence  products,  feminine hygiene products
and  disposable  surgical and patient care  products.  The company's  Electronic
Information and Communication Systems segment designs, manufactures and provides
logistical  support for communication  systems,  radar systems,  information and
command  and  control  systems and custom  mixed-signal  large scale  integrated
circuits  used in the defense,  and other  government  programs  and  commercial
markets.

     The company has made strategic investments in each of its business segments
to enhance its market position,  expand into new markets and further  accelerate
growth.   Garage  Doors  and   Installation   Services  have  acquired   several
manufacturing  and  installation  companies in recent years. In fiscal 1997, the
company acquired a West Coast-based  garage door  manufacturing and installation
company,  which  enhanced  the  company's  national  market  position.  In  1998
Specialty  Plastic  Films  acquired  a  manufacturer  of plastic  packaging  and
specialty films located in Germany,  expanding its markets, and in 1998 and 1999
added additional production capacity in its European joint venture in connection
with multi-year contracts from a major international  consumer products company.
In 1999,  Installation  Services  acquired an operation located in the Southwest
that sells and  installs a range of  specialty  products to the new  residential
construction market, expanding the products and services offered by the company.
The  Electronic  Information  and  Communication  Systems  segment was awarded a
number of new  contracts  which  resulted  in record  sales for this  segment in
fiscal 1999.

GARAGE DOORS

     The company  believes  that its wholly  owned  subsidiary,  Clopay,  is the
largest  manufacturer  and  marketer of  residential  garage doors and among the
largest  manufacturers of commercial  doors in the United States.  The company's
building products are sold under the Clopay(R),  Ideal(R),  Holmes(R),  Atlas(R)
and other brand names through an extensive  distribution  network throughout the
United  States.  The company  estimates  that the majority of Garage  Doors' net
sales are from sales of garage  doors to the home  remodeling  market,  with the
balance from the new housing and commercial construction markets. Sales into the
home  remodeling  market are being driven by the continued  aging of the housing
stock and the  conversion  by homeowners  from wood doors to durable,  easier to
maintain steel doors.
<PAGE>
Industry

     According  to  industry  sources,  the  garage  door  market  for  1998 was
estimated  to be  $1.5  billion,  comprised  of  residential  garage  doors  and
commercial/industrial  doors.  Over the past decade  there have been several key
trends  driving the garage door industry  including the shift from wood to steel
doors and the growth of the home  center  channel of  distribution.  The company
estimates  that over 90% of the total  garage door market  today is steel doors.
Superior  strength,  reduced weight and low  maintenance  have favored the steel
door.   Other  product   innovations   during  this  period  include   insulated
double-sided steel doors and new springing systems.

     The growth of home center  retail  chains in the United States has resulted
in a  significant  new  channel of  distribution,  supplementing  the  company's
substantial  network of professional  installers and wholesalers.  Over the past
decade,  an increasing number of garage doors have been sold through home center
retail chains such as The Home Depot, Inc. These home centers offer garage doors
for  the  do-it-yourself   market  and  commercial   contractors,   as  well  as
installation  services  for other  customers.  Distribution  through  the retail
channel requires a different approach than that traditionally utilized by garage
door manufacturers.  Factors such as immediately  available inventory,  national
distribution,   point-of-sale   merchandising  and  special  packaging  are  all
important to the retailer.

Key Competitive Strengths

     The company believes that the following  strengths will continue to enhance
the market position of Garage Doors:

     National   Distribution  Network.  The  company  distributes  its  building
products  through a wide range of  distribution  channels  including  installing
dealers,  retailers  and  wholesalers.  The company owns and operates a national
network of 47 distribution  centers. The company's building products are sold to
approximately  2,000 independent  professional  installing  dealers and to major
home center retail chains,  including The Home Depot,  Inc.,  Menards,  Inc. and
Lowe's  Companies,  Inc. The company  maintains  strong  relationships  with its
installing dealers and believes it is the largest supplier of residential garage
doors to retail channels.

     Strong Brand Franchise.  The company's brand names,  particularly Clopay(R)
Ideal(R),  and Holmes(R)  residential  doors and Atlas(R)  commercial doors, are
widely recognized in the building products  industry.  The company believes that
it has earned a reputation among installing  dealers,  retailers and wholesalers
for  producing  a broad  range  of  high-quality  doors.  The  company's  market
leadership and strong brand  recognition  are key marketing  tools for expanding
its customer base, leveraging its distribution network and increasing its market
share.

     Low-Cost Manufacturing  Capabilities.  The company believes it has low-cost
manufacturing  capabilities as a result of its automated,  continuous production
manufacturing facilities and its reduced costs for raw materials based on volume
purchases.  These manufacturing  facilities produce a broad line of high quality
garage doors for  distribution to professional  installer,  retail and wholesale
channels.
<PAGE>
Strategy

     The  company  intends  to  increase  its  market  share in Garage  Doors by
capitalizing  on what it believes to be its  leadership  position as the largest
manufacturer  and  marketer of  residential  garage doors and one of the largest
manufacturers of commercial garage doors in the United States. Specifically, the
company intends to: (i) continue expansion of its dealer network;  (ii) increase
brand awareness,  merchandising  programs and trade and consumer advertising and
product  development,  (iii)  leverage  its  extensive  distribution  network by
selling additional products to professional  installers and to major home center
retail chains;  and (iv) expand its production and presence  nationally  through
continued strategic acquisitions.

Products and Services

     The  company  manufactures  a  broad  line  of  residential  garage  doors,
commercial  sectional and coiling  doors and related  products with a variety of
options at varying  prices.  The company's  primary  manufactured  product lines
include  residential garage doors and  commercial/industrial  doors. The company
also sells  related  products such as garage door  openers.  The company  offers
garage doors made from several materials,  including steel and wood. Steel doors
accounted for over 90% of garage doors sold by the company in fiscal 1999.

     The company  markets its line of residential  garage doors in three primary
product  categories:  Value,  Value  Plus and  Premium.  The Value  series  door
construction  consists of a single  layer of steel or wood doors  targeting  the
construction  market  and the cost  conscious  consumer  market.  The Value Plus
series consists of insulated steel doors targeting the  construction  market and
the quality-oriented consumer market. The Premium series consists of steel doors
with a layer  of  insulation  bonded  between  two  sheets  of  steel  targeting
consumers who desire exceptional  strength,  durability,  high insulation value,
quiet operation,  and a finished interior  appearance.  The company also markets
garage door openers that are manufactured by a third party.

     The company markets  commercial  doors in two basic  categories:  sectional
doors and slatted steel coiling doors. Commercial sectional doors are similar to
residential   garage   doors,   but  are   designed   to  meet  more   demanding
specifications.  Slatted  steel  coiling  doors are  generally  utilized in more
demanding  commercial  and  industrial  applications,  providing  an  attractive
combination of flexibility and durability. In this category the company provides
service doors,  thermal doors,  and fire doors which can be found in warehouses,
manufacturing  and  military  installations  as  well  as in  public  and  other
institutional  buildings.  The company also provides (i) counter shutters,  fire
shutters and grilles that are used in shopping malls, schools, hospitals and the
concession  areas of large arenas and convention  centers,  (ii) commercial door
openers that are marketed with slatted door products,  and (iii)  sectional door
openers  that are  manufactured  by a third  party.  During  1999,  the  company
divested an  unprofitable  peripheral  product line,  sheet steel roll-up doors,
which primarily serviced the self storage mini-warehouse market.
<PAGE>
Sales and Marketing

     The  company  sells  residential  and  commercial  doors  for  professional
installation directly to a national network of professional  installing dealers.
The company also sells  garage  doors to retailers  such as The Home Depot Inc.,
Menards,  Inc. and Lowe's Companies,  Inc.  Beginning in fiscal 2000 the company
will become the exclusive  supplier of residential  garage doors  throughout the
United States and Canada to The Home Depot,  Inc.,  with  Clopay(R)  brand doors
being  sold  exclusively  to this  retail  customer  in the  retail  channel  of
distribution.  Sales of the  Clopay(R)  brand  outside  the  retail  channel  of
distribution are not restricted,  and the company is continuing to sell doors to
other  retailers  using  alternative  brands  such as  Ideal(R),  Holmes(R)  and
Anozira(TM).  The  company  distributes  its  garage  doors  directly  from  its
manufacturing   facilities   to   customers   and  through  its  network  of  47
company-owned  distribution  centers throughout the United States and in Canada.
This  network  allows the company to maintain an  inventory of garage doors near
installing dealers and to provide quick-ship service to retail customers.

Acquisitions

     Since 1992,  the company has completed  three  acquisitions  of garage door
manufacturers.  In 1997, the company acquired  Holmes-Hally  Industries,  a West
Coast  manufacturer  and  installer  of  residential  garage  doors and  related
hardware.   This   acquisition   has  increased  the  company's   manufacturing,
distribution  and  installation  presence  in the West  Coast  and  Southwestern
markets.  In 1995,  the company  acquired  the Atlas  Roll-lite  Corporation,  a
manufacturer  and  installer  of heavy duty  coiling  steel  doors,  grilles and
counter  shutters for  industrial and  commercial  markets and sectional  garage
doors for  residential  applications.  In 1992, the company  acquired Ideal Door
Company, a manufacturer of sectional garage doors for residential and commercial
applications.

Manufacturing and Raw Materials

     The company currently operates five garage door manufacturing facilities. A
key  aspect of Garage  Doors'  research  and  development  efforts  has been the
ability to continually  improve and streamline its  manufacturing  process.  The
company's  engineering and  technological  expertise,  combined with its capital
investment  in  equipment,  generally  has enabled  the  company to  efficiently
manufacture  products in large  volume and meet  changing  customer  needs.  The
company's  facilities  use  proprietary  manufacturing  processes to produce the
majority of its products.  Certain of the company's  equipment and machinery are
internally modified to achieve its manufacturing objectives.

     During  1998 and  1999,  in  order to  streamline  operations  and  improve
efficiency,  the  company  consolidated  or  closed  several  manufacturing  and
distribution  facilities,   including  certain  manufacturing  and  distribution
operations of recently acquired businesses. As a result of these actions and the
divestiture of the sheet steel roll-up product line,  facilities employed in the
Garage Doors operation were reduced by approximately 400,000 square feet and the
workforce was reduced by approximately 10%.

     During 1998 and 1999, Garage Doors'  profitability was impacted by capacity
constraints  and  related   manufacturing   inefficiencies   due  to  delays  in
implementing an additional production line. In 1999, this additional line plus a
number of other plant capacity projects were  implemented,  which, in the latter
half of the year, eased the capacity shortage.  Additional  projects to increase
capacity are in progress.
<PAGE>

     The principal raw material used in the company's  manufacturing  operations
is galvanized  steel. The company also utilizes  certain hardware  components as
well as wood and  insulated  foam.  All of these  raw  materials  are  generally
available from a number of sources.

Research and Development

     The company  operates a technical  development  center where its  engineers
work to design,  develop and implement new products and technologies and perform
durability and performance  testing of new and existing products,  materials and
finishes.

Competition

     The  garage  door  industry  is  characterized  by several  large  national
manufacturers and many smaller regional and local manufacturers.  Several of the
national   garage  door   manufacturers,   including  the  company,   have  been
consolidating  the  industry  through  the  acquisition  of  regional  and local
manufacturers.  During 1999,  Garage  Doors  experienced  continued  competitive
pricing  pressures,  resulting in selling price  reductions and increased  costs
associated with retail home center programs that narrowed  margins.  The company
competes on the basis of product line  diversity,  quality,  service,  price and
brand awareness.

INSTALLATION SERVICES

     The  company has  developed a  substantial  network of  specialty  building
products installation and service operations.  These 39 locations in 24 markets,
covering  many of the key new single  family home markets in the United  States,
offer an increasing variety of building products and services to the residential
construction and remodeling  industries.  The company believes that it is one of
the leading installing dealers of both garage doors and manufactured  fireplaces
in the United States.

Industry

     The company provides  installed  specialty building products to residential
builders and to consumers.  Builders are  increasingly  acting as developers and
marketers,  sub-contracting  substantially  all of the actual  construction of a
home.  Consumers  require  professional  installation  services of the company's
building  products due to the skill levels required for installation  and/or the
lack of time to perform the installation themselves.  Traditionally,  the market
for  installation  services  has been very  fragmented,  characterized  by small
operations  offering  a single  type of  building  product  in a single  market.
Recently,  national home center chains have begun to offer installation services
to consumers, provided through sub-contractors (including the company), for some
of its product categories.

Key competitive Strengths

     The company believes that the following  strengths will continue to enhance
the market position of the Installation Services business:

     Scale of Operations.  In what has  historically  been an  undercapitalized,
fragmented industry, the company has sufficient capital and the scale to attract
professional  management,  achieve operating  economies,  and serve the needs of
even the largest national builders.
<PAGE>
     Multiple product and service  offerings.  The company believes it is unique
in its  offering of products and services in several  product  categories.  This
offering is leveraged over a common customer base,  providing  efficiencies  and
convenience for the customer.

     Selection Centers.  The company operates  well-appointed  product showrooms
that  facilitate  selection  of products  by the  consumer,  enhancing  customer
service and providing an environment  conducive to up-selling into higher margin
products.

Strategy

     The company believes that Installation Services has distinguished itself in
the marketplace as an expert in select building product categories, with a focus
on value-added service.

     Installation  Services has targeted geographic markets that have a sizeable
population or significant growth  demographics.  The company currently serves 20
of the top 100 metropolitan  markets based on population and 9 of the top 20 new
single family residential  construction  markets. The markets served contain 24%
of all new residential  housing permits in the United States.  The company seeks
to promote the continued  growth of the Installation  Services  business through
strategic acquisitions of new operations in high growth construction markets.

     Installation  Services'  multiple product offering is primarily targeted at
new  construction,  wherein all products are consumed at approximately  the same
time in the construction process.  Products offered are selected by the customer
in the company's selection centers.  The company believes that its multi-product
offering  provides  strategic  marketing  advantages  over  traditional,  single
product competitors, and provides the company with operational efficiencies. The
company  seeks to increase the  cross-selling  of its  multiple  products to its
existing customers.  Additionally,  the company plans further growth through the
introduction  of additional  installed  building  products.  The replacement and
remodeling  markets  are  additional  markets  for the  company's  products  and
professional installation services.

Products and Services

     Installation Services sells and installs a variety of building products:

     Garage  Doors and Openers - garage  doors are  distributed,  professionally
installed and serviced in the new construction and replacement markets.  This is
the largest product category by volume for Installation  Services.  Installation
Services sources the majority of its garage doors from Garage Doors.

     Fireplaces - manufactured wood and gas fireplaces and related products such
as  stone or  marble  surrounds,  wood  mantels  and gas  logs are  distributed,
professionally installed and serviced primarily to the new construction market.

     Flooring  -  flooring  products   distributed  and  installed  to  the  new
construction market include carpeting, tile and stone, wood and vinyl.

     Appliances  -  appliances   distributed  include   refrigerators,   stoves,
cooktops,  ovens  and  dishwashers.  These  products  are sold  strictly  to the
professional builder market.
<PAGE>
     Kitchen and Bath Cabinets - cabinetry, with options in wood varieties, door
styles and organizer  inserts are offered for  distribution  and installation to
the residential new construction markets.

     Other - other products include  seamless  gutters,  closet systems,  window
coverings and bath enclosures.  Tile and stone  applications for shower and bath
walls, counter tops and fireplace surrounds are also offered.

Acquisitions

     The  Installation  Services  business  has entered  new  markets  primarily
through  acquisition.  Once  established  in a market,  the  company  introduces
additional product categories to the acquired company's product offerings. Since
1993, the company has completed twelve acquisitions of building products service
and installation operations.

Competition

     The installation  services industry is fragmented  consisting  primarily of
small,  single-market  companies  which have less  financial  resources than the
company.  The company competes on the basis of service,  product line diversity,
price and brand awareness.


SPECIALTY PLASTIC FILMS

     The company believes that,  through Clopay,  it is a leading  developer and
producer of plastic films and  laminates for a variety of hygienic,  health care
and industrial  uses in domestic and certain  international  markets.  Specialty
Plastic  Films'  products   include  thin  gauge  embossed  and  printed  films,
elastomeric  films and laminates of film and non-woven  fabrics.  These products
are used  primarily as moisture  barriers in disposable  infant  diapers,  adult
incontinence  products and feminine hygiene products,  as protective barriers in
single-use  surgical and industrial  gowns,  drapes,  equipment  covers,  and as
packaging for hygienic  products.  Specialty  Plastic  Films'  products are sold
through the company's direct sales force primarily to multinational consumer and
medical products companies.

Industry

     The  specialty  plastic  films  industry  has been  affected by several key
trends over the past five years.  These  trends  include  the  increased  use of
disposable  products in emerging  countries and favorable  demographics  in most
countries,  such as high birth rates in third world  countries  and the aging of
the population.  Other key trends  representing  significant  opportunities  for
manufacturers  include the  continued  demand for new advanced  products such as
breathable  and  laminated  products and the need of major  customers for global
supply partners.

Key Competitive Strengths

     The company believes that the following  strengths will continue to enhance
the market position of Specialty Plastic Films:
<PAGE>
     Technological Expertise and Product Development. The company believes that,
as a result of ongoing research and development activities and continued capital
investment,  it is a leader in new product  development  for  specialty  plastic
films and laminates. The company has developed technologically advanced embossed
films,  elastomeric  films,  breathable films,  laminates and cloth-like barrier
products for diapers,  feminine  hygiene  products  and  disposable  health care
products.  The  company  believes  that  its  technical  expertise  and  product
development capabilities enhance its market position and customer relationships.

     Long-Term Customer Relationships and Expanding  International Presence. The
company has developed strong,  long-term relationships with leading consumer and
medical  products  companies.  The company  believes  that these  relationships,
combined with its technological  expertise,  product  development and production
capabilities,  have  positioned it to meet changing  customer  needs,  which the
company expects will drive growth. In addition, the company believes its strong,
long-term  relationships  provide it with increasing  opportunities to enter new
international markets, such as Latin America and the Pacific Rim.

Strategy

     The company seeks to expand its market presence for Specialty Plastic Films
by  capitalizing on its  technological  and  manufacturing  expertise and on its
relationships   with   major   international    consumer   products   companies.
Specifically,  the company  believes that it can increase its domestic sales and
substantially expand  internationally  through continued product development and
enhancement and by marketing its  technologically  advanced breathable films and
laminates for use in all of its markets.  The company believes that its Finotech
joint venture and 1998 acquisition of Bhme (see European  Operations)  provide a
strong platform for additional sales growth in certain international markets.

Products

     Specialty Plastic Films manufactures a wide variety of embossed and printed
specialty  films and laminates for the hygiene,  healthcare  and other  markets.
Specialty  Plastic Films' products are used as moisture  barriers for disposable
infant  diapers,  adult  incontinence  and  feminine  hygiene  products  and  as
protective  barriers  in  single-use  surgical  and  industrial  gowns,  drapes,
equipment  covers and packaging.  A specialty  plastic film is a thin-gauge film
(typically  0.0005" to 0.003") that is manufactured  from polyolefin  resins and
engineered to provide  certain  performance  characteristics.  A laminate is the
combination  of a  plastic  film and a  non-woven  fabric.  These  products  are
produced  using both cast and blown  extrusion and  laminating  processes.  High
speed,  multi-color  custom printing of films and customized  embossing patterns
further  differentiate  the products.  The company's  specialty plastic products
typically provide a unique combination of performance  characteristics that meet
specific,  proprietary customer needs. Examples of such characteristics  include
strength,  breathability,  barrier  properties,   processibility  and  aesthetic
appeal.

Sales and Marketing

     The company  sells its products  primarily in the United  States and Europe
with sales also in Canada,  Latin  America  and the  Pacific  Rim.  The  company
utilizes  an  internal  direct  sales  force and  manufacturer  representatives,
organized by customer  accounts.  Senior  management  actively  participates  by
developing and maintaining close contacts with customers.
<PAGE>
     The company's largest customer is Procter & Gamble, which has accounted for
a  substantial  portion of  Specialty  Plastic  Films'  sales over the last five
years.  The loss of this customer  would have a material  adverse  effect on the
company's business.  Specialty plastic films also are sold to a diverse group of
other leading consumer and health care companies.

Research and Development

     The company  believes it is an industry leader in the research,  design and
development  of  specialty  plastic  films and  laminate  products.  The company
operates a technical  center where  approximately  30 chemists,  scientists  and
engineers work  independently  and in strategic  partnerships with the company's
customers  to develop  new  technologies,  products  and  product  applications.
Currently, the company is engaged in several joint efforts with the research and
development departments of its specialty plastic film customers.

     The  company's  research  and  development  efforts  have  resulted in many
inventions  covering embossing patterns,  improved  processing methods,  product
formulations,  product applications and other proprietary technology. Recent new
products  include  microporous  breathable films and  cost-effective  cloth-like
films and  laminates.  Microporous  breathability  provides  for  airflow  while
maintaining  barrier  properties  resulting  in improved  comfort and skin care.
Cloth-like  films and laminates  provide consumer  preferred  aesthetics such as
softness  and visual  appeal.  The  company  holds a number of  patents  for its
current  specialty  film  and  laminate   products  and  related   manufacturing
processes.  Such  patents are  believed to be a less  significant  factor in the
company's success than its proprietary  know-how and the knowledge,  ability and
experience of its employees.

European Operations

     In 1996, the company formed Finotech,  a joint venture with Corovin GmbH, a
manufacturer of non-woven  fabrics  headquartered in Germany and is a subsidiary
of BBA Group PLC, a publicly  owned  diversified  U.K.  manufacturer.  The joint
venture was created to develop,  manufacture and market  specialty  plastic film
and  laminate  products  for use in the  infant  diaper,  healthcare  and  other
markets.  Finotech,  which is 60% owned by the  company,  focuses on selling its
products in Europe.

     In 1997, Finotech constructed and began to operate a manufacturing facility
in  Germany,  the cost of which  was  approximately  $9  million.  Subsequently,
Finotech  made  capital  expenditures  of  approximately  $25  million  for  new
production lines. This expansion,  which was financed primarily by joint venture
borrowings,  is designed to meet anticipated  demand under multi-year  contracts
with  a  major  international  consumer  products  company,  and  has  increased
Finotech's manufacturing capacity by approximately 200%.

     In July 1998,  the company  acquired Bhme  Verpackungsfolien  GmbH & Co., a
German manufacturer of high-quality  printed and conventional  plastic packaging
and  specialty  films.  The  acquisition  provides a platform to further  expand
Specialty Plastic Films' European  operations and the opportunity to broaden the
segment's  product line by bringing Bhme technology and products to domestic and
other international  markets.  These products include printed and unprinted film
and flexible packaging for hygienic products.
<PAGE>
Manufacturing and Raw Materials

     The company  manufactures its specialty  plastic film and laminate products
on high-speed equipment designed to meet stringent tolerances. The manufacturing
process  consists  of  melting  a  mixture  of  polyolefin   resins   (primarily
polyethylene)  and  additives,  and  forcing  this  mixture  through a  computer
controlled  die  and  rollers  to  produce  embossed  films.  In  addition,  the
lamination  processes involve extruding the melted plastic films directly onto a
non-woven  fabric and  adhesively  bonding  these  materials to form a laminate.
Through  statistical  process control  methods,  company  personnel  monitor and
control the entire production process.

     Plastic  resins,  such as  polyethylene  and  polypropylene,  and non-woven
fabrics are the basic raw materials used in the manufacture of substantially all
of Specialty  Plastic  Films'  products.  The company  currently  purchases  its
plastic  resins in pellet form from several  suppliers.  The  purchases are made
under annual supply  agreements that do not specify fixed pricing terms.  During
1999, Finotech experienced a shortage of certain specialty resins.  Although the
joint  venture  was able to  supplement  its  supply of such  resins  from other
sources and use  alternative  raw  materials,  the ramp-up of its operations was
impacted   by   resultant   higher   raw   material   costs  and   manufacturing
inefficiencies.  The shortage,  which the company  considers  unusual,  has been
resolved.  The  company's  sources for raw materials are believed to be adequate
for its current and anticipated needs.

Competition

     The market for the company's  specialty  plastic film and laminate products
is highly competitive.  The company has a number of competitors in the specialty
plastic  films and laminates  market,  some of which are larger and have greater
resources  than the company.  Over the past several years the specialty  plastic
films  industry  has  experienced  periods of selling  price  reductions  due to
competitive pressures in connection with excess industry  manufacturing capacity
for commodity products. The company competes primarily on the basis of technical
expertise, quality, service and price.

ELECTRONIC INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

     The company, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Telephonics,  specializes
in advanced  electronic  information  and  communication  systems  for  defense,
aerospace,  civil,  industrial and  commercial  markets  worldwide.  The company
designs,   manufactures,   and   provides   logistical   support  for   aircraft
communication  systems,  radars, air traffic management systems,  identification
friend or foe ("IFF") equipment,  transit communications and custom mixed-signal
large scale integrated circuits.  The company believes that it has a significant
presence in the markets for airborne  maritime  surveillance  radar and aircraft
communication  systems,  two of the segment's largest product lines. In addition
to its continued focus on defense applications,  in recent years the company has
adapted  its  technology  to expand its  presence  in  non-military  government,
commercial and international markets.
<PAGE>
     Some of the major  programs  in which the  company  currently  participates
include:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Description                   Customer                        Products
   -----------                   --------                        --------

<S>                           <C>                           <C>
SH-60R                        Lockheed Martin               Multi-mode radar,
(U.S. Navy Multi-                                           intercommunication and
mission Helicopter)                                         radio management and IFF
                                                            systems

NIMROD 2000 (U.K. Royal       British Aerospace             Integration of
Maritime Patrol                                             communications and radio
Aircraft)                                                   management systems

C-17 (U.S. Air Force          Boeing                        Integrated radio
Cargo Transport)                                            management and wireless
                                                            communication systems

AWACS (U.S. Air               Boeing/NATO                   IFF and radio management
Force/NATO Airborne                                         systems
Warning and Control
System)

Joint-STARS (U.S. Air         Lockheed Martin               Intercommunication and
Force Airborne                                              radio management systems
Surveillance System)

Maritime Surveillance        Sikorsky/Kaman                 Airborne coastal
Radar                                                       surveillance radar


Rail Transit                  Kawasaki, Bombardier          Car-borne and wayside
Communications                and others                    communications and
                                                            vehicle health monitoring
                                                            systems for rail cars
</TABLE>
Industry

     The segment's  market is comprised of defense and  non-military  government
and commercial customers, both domestically and internationally.

     In recent years,  the  Electronic  Information  and  Communication  Systems
segment has expanded its customer base with increasing  emphasis on non-military
government,  commercial,  industrial and new international markets. For example,
sales to customers other than the U.S. Department of Defense and its contractors
and  subcontractors  increased from approximately 30% of the segment's net sales
in fiscal 1992 to approximately 52% of net sales in fiscal 1999.

     Although the United States defense budget has remained  relatively constant
in the last several years, the electronics  procurement portion of the budget is
expected to grow approximately 8% per year over the next 10 years,  according to
the Electronics  Industry  Association.  This is due in part to the government's
plan to upgrade the technology in existing weapon systems  platforms rather than
purchase entirely new platforms and systems.
<PAGE>

     One of the major  non-defense  markets  for the  segment's  products in the
United States is the mass transit market. The company believes that both federal
and local  governments will continue to increase funding over the next few years
to upgrade the  infrastructure  of their mass  transit  systems.  This market is
serviced by a limited number of  manufacturers  who are capable of providing the
required electronics, logistics support and installation support.

     Electronic  Information  and  Communication  Systems'  commercial  projects
include contracts with Kawasaki,  Bombardier, Breda and other rail suppliers for
rail   communications   systems   as   well   as  with   Boeing   for   aircraft
intercommunication systems and audio products.

     In recent years, the segment has  significantly  expanded its customer base
in  international  markets.  The  company's  international  projects  include  a
contract with British  Aerospace PLC as part of the United Kingdom's  upgrade of
the NIMROD  surveillance  aircraft and several contracts with the Civil Aviation
Authority of China for air traffic management  systems. As a result of these and
other  developments,  the segment's sales to these markets  increased from 8% of
net sales in fiscal 1992 to 42% of net sales in fiscal 1999.

Key Competitive Strengths

     The company believes that the following  strengths will continue to enhance
the market position of Electronic Information and Communication Systems:

     Innovative Design and Engineering Capability. The company believes that its
reputation  for  innovative  product  design and  engineering  capabilities  has
enhanced its ability to secure,  retain and expand key contracts in its markets.
In  addition,  the  company  is  capable  of  meeting a full  range of  customer
requirements  including product conceptual design,  engineering,  production and
logistical  support.  As a result, the company has been successful in increasing
its  presence in both  domestic  and  international  markets and in applying its
defense technologies in non-military markets.

     Broad Base of Long-Life  Programs.  The company  participates in a range of
long-term defense and non-military  government  programs,  both domestically and
internationally. The company has developed a base of installed products in these
programs that generate significant  recurring revenue and retrofit,  spare parts
and customer  support  sales.  The company  believes  that its recent  awards of
significant  contracts  will add to its installed  base and further  enhance its
ability to generate recurring revenues.

Strategy

     The  company  intends to  increase  the market  penetration  of  Electronic
Information and Communication  Systems' products in the defense and non-military
government  markets both  domestically  and  internationally  by leveraging  its
design and engineering  capabilities.  For example, the company has applied such
capabilities to develop an advanced imaging radar used in the U.S. Navy's SH-60R
multi-mission  helicopter.  As a result,  the company expects  substantial sales
growth as it transitions  from development to the production phase of the SH-60R
helicopter program, which is expected to occur in 2001. In addition, the company
intends to continue to capitalize on the technology it has developed for defense
programs by entering into new non-military government markets, as exemplified by
contracts  to provide  car-borne  communications  systems  for trains and subway
cars.
<PAGE>
Products

     The company manufactures  specialized  electronic products for a variety of
niche applications.  Electronic  Information and Communication  Systems products
include  communication  systems,  radar  systems,  information  and  command and
control systems, and custom mixed-signal large scale integrated circuits used in
defense,  non-military  government  and  commercial  markets.  The company  also
manufactures  audio  products  for  commercial   aircraft,   such  as  headsets,
microphones and handsets.

     The company  specializes  in  communication  systems and  products and is a
leading  manufacturer  of aircraft  intercommunication  systems with products in
digital and analog  communication  management,  digital audio  distribution  and
control,  and communication  systems  integration.  The company's  communication
products are used on the U.S. Navy SH-60R multi-mission  helicopter,  the United
Kingdom's NIMROD surveillance aircraft,  U.S. Air Force C-17 cargo transport and
AWACS.  The company has  expanded  its  communications  expertise  into the mass
transit  rail  market  and its  communication  systems  have been  selected  for
installation by several major mass transit  authorities,  including the New York
City Transit Authority, Long Island Railroad,  Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit
Authority, Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority and California Transit Authority.

     The company's  information and command and control systems include airborne
maritime surveillance radar, air traffic management systems and landing systems.
The company  provides  both the  expertise  and the  equipment for detecting and
tracking  targets in a maritime  environment and flight path management  systems
for air traffic control applications. Its maritime radar systems, which are used
in more than 20 countries,  are fitted aboard  helicopters,  fixed-wing aircraft
and aerostats for use at sea. The company's aerospace electronic systems include
IFF  systems  used by the U.S.  Air  Force and NATO on the  AWACS  aircraft  and
microwave  landing  systems used by NASA and other customers for ground and ship
based applications.

     The company also manufactures  custom  mixed-signal  large scale integrated
circuits   primarily   for   customers   in   the   security,   automotive   and
telecommunications industries, as well as for customers in the defense industry.
Security  applications  include smoke and motion  detectors as well as intrusion
alarm systems. Suppliers to the automotive industry feature the company's custom
circuits in engine controllers, power window controllers,  airbag sensors, fluid
level  sensors and rear window  defoggers.  In addition,  the  company's  custom
integrated  circuits are  important  components in various  computer  peripheral
devices.

Backlog

     The company's funded backlog for Electronic  Information and  Communication
Systems was approximately  $170 million on September 30, 1999,  compared to $189
million on September 30, 1998.

Sales and Marketing

     Telephonics has approximately 15 technical business  development  personnel
who act as the focal point for its marketing  activities  and  approximately  30
sales  representatives  who  introduce  its  products  and systems to  customers
worldwide.
<PAGE>
Research and Development

     A portion of Electronic  Information  and  Communication  Systems'  product
development  activities are generally performed under government contracts.  The
segment also regularly updates its core technologies  through  internally funded
research and development.  The selection of these projects is based on available
opportunities in the marketplace as well as input from the company's  customers.
These projects usually  represent an evolution of existing  products rather than
entirely new  pursuits.  The company's  recent  internally  funded  research and
development  activities are  exemplified by the development of a next generation
airborne radar system and an all digital interior communication system.

Competition

     Electronic  Information  and  Communication  Systems  competes  with  major
manufacturers  of electronic  information  and  communication  systems that have
greater  financial  resources  than  the  company,   and  with  several  smaller
manufacturers  of  similar  products.  The  company  competes  on the  basis  of
technology, design, quality, price and program performance.

EMPLOYEES

     The company has approximately 5,400 employees located throughout the United
States  and in  Europe.  Approximately  100 of its  employees  are  covered by a
collective bargaining agreement, primarily with an affiliate of the AFL-CIO. The
company believes its relationships with its employees are satisfactory.


OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           Served as           Positions and
     Name                   Age          Officer Since            Offices
     ----                   ---          -------------         -------------
<S>                         <C>              <C>               <C>
Harvey R. Blau              64               1983              Chairman of the
                                                               Board and Chief
                                                               Executive Officer
Robert Balemian             60               1976              President
Patrick L. Alesia           51               1979              Vice President and
                                                               Treasurer
Edward I. Kramer            65               1997              Vice President,
                                                               Administration and
                                                               Secretary
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
ITEM 2 - PROPERTIES

     The company occupies approximately 4,000,000 square feet of general office,
factory and warehouse  space and showrooms  throughout  the United States and in
Germany.  The following  table sets forth certain  information as to each of the
company's major facilities:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           Approximate    Owned
                                                                              Square         or
Location            Business Segment              Primary Use                Footage      Leased
- --------            ----------------              -----------              -----------    ------

<S>                 <C>                           <C>                      <C>            <C>
Jericho, NY         Corporate Headquarters        Office                    10,000        Leased

Farmingdale, NY     Electronic Information        Manufacturing            167,000        Owned
                    and Communication
                    Systems

Huntington, NY      Electronic Information        Manufacturing             89,000        Owned
                    and Communication
                    Systems

Cincinnati, OH      Garage Doors                  Office                    50,000        Leased
                    Installation Services
                    Specialty Plastic Films

Cincinnati, OH      Garage Doors                  Research and              49,000        Leased
                    Specialty Plastic Films       Development

Aschersleben,       Specialty Plastic Films       Manufacturing            395,000        Owned
Germany

Dombhl,             Specialty Plastic Films       Manufacturing            398,000        Owned
Germany

Augusta, KY         Specialty Plastic Films       Manufacturing            143,000        Owned

Nashville, TN       Specialty Plastic Films       Manufacturing            126,000        Leased

Fresno, CA          Specialty Plastic Films       Manufacturing             37,000        Leased

Russia, OH          Garage Doors                  Manufacturing            274,000        Leased

Baldwin, WI         Garage Doors                  Manufacturing            216,000        Leased

Nesbit, MS          Garage Doors                  Manufacturing             40,000        Owned

Los Angeles, CA     Garage Doors                  Manufacturing             40,000        Leased

Auburn, WA          Garage Doors                  Manufacturing            123,000        Leased

Tempe, AZ           Garage Doors                  Manufacturing            145,000        Leased
                    Installation Services         Warehousing
</TABLE>
     The company also leases  approximately  1,500,000  square feet of space for
the Garage Doors  distribution  centers and Installation  Services  locations in
numerous facilities throughout the United States.

     The company has  aggregate  minimum  annual rental  commitments  under real
estate  leases of  approximately  $10  million.  The majority of the leases have
escalation  clauses  related to increases in real  property  taxes on the leased
property  and some for cost of living  adjustments.  Certain of the leases  have
renewal  and  purchase  options.  All plants and  equipment  of the  company are
believed to be in adequate  condition and contain  sufficient  space for current
and presently foreseeable needs.
<PAGE>
ITEM 3 - LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
         -----------------

     Department  of  Environmental   Conservation  with  Lightron   Corporation.
Lightron, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the company, once conducted operations at
a  location  in  Peekskill  in the  Town of  Cortland,  New  York  owned  by ISC
Properties,  Inc., a  wholly-owned  subsidiary  of the company  (the  "Peekskill
Site"). ISC Properties, Inc. sold the Peekskill Site in November 1982.

     Subsequently,  the company was advised by the New York State  Department of
Environmental  Conservation  ("DEC") that random  sampling at the Peekskill Site
and in a creek near the Peekskill Site indicated  concentrations of solvents and
other chemicals  common to Lightron's prior plating  operations.  ISC Properties
has  entered  into  a  consent   order  with  the  DEC  to  perform  a  remedial
investigation  and  prepare  a  feasibility  study,  which  has been  completed.
Management  believes,  based on facts presently known to it, that the outcome of
this  matter  will  not  have  a  material   adverse  effect  on  the  company's
consolidated financial position or results of operations.



ITEM 4 - SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A
         VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
         --------------------------

     No matters were  submitted to a vote of security  holders during the fourth
quarter of the fiscal year.
<PAGE>
                                    PART II
                                    -------

ITEM 5 - MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY
         AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
         -------------------------------------

     (a) The company's  common stock is listed for trading on the New York Stock
Exchange.  The  following  table shows for the periods  indicated  the quarterly
range in the high and low  closing  prices  for the  company's  common  stock as
reported by the National Quotation Bureau Incorporated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
     FISCAL QUARTER ENDED                 HIGH                 LOW
                                          ----                 ---

     <S>                                <C>                 <C>
     December 31, 1997                  $17  1/2            $14  3/8
     March 31, 1998                      17  3/8             14 11/16
     June 30, 1998                       15  7/16            12  3/8
     September 30, 1998                  13 15/16             7 15/16
     December 31, 1998                   11  3/16             7  5/8
     March 31, 1999                      10  7/8              6  7/8
     June 30, 1999                        8  3/8              6 7/16
     September 30, 1999                   8                   6 5/8
</TABLE>
     (b) As of November 1, 1999, there were approximately  14,000  recordholders
of the company's common stock.

     (c) No  dividends  on common  stock were  declared  or paid during the five
years ended September 30, 1999.
<PAGE>
ITEM 6 -  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
          -----------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                              1999              1998           1997            1996          1995
                              ----              ----           ----            ----          ----
<S>                      <C>                <C>             <C>            <C>            <C>
Net sales                $1,032,697,000     $914,874,000    $770,227,000   $655,063,000   $506,116,000
                         ==============     ============    ============   ============   ============
Income from
  continuing
  operations             $   20,211,000     $ 29,321,000    $ 33,164,000   $ 28,067,000   $ 23,245,000
                         ==============     ============    ============   ============   ============

  Per share:
    Basic                $          .67     $        .96    $       1.12   $        .93   $        .73
                         ==============     ============    ============   ============   ============
    Diluted              $          .66     $        .94    $       1.06   $        .88   $        .69
                         ==============     ============    ============   ============   ============

Total assets             $  533,440,000     $487,938,000    $384,759,000   $311,169,000   $285,616,000
                         ==============     ============    ============   ============   ============

Long-term
  obligations            $  135,284,000     $112,829,000    $ 53,854,000   $ 32,458,000   $ 16,074,000
                         ==============     ============    ============   ============   ============
<FN>
     Income from  continuing  operations in 1999 was after a $3,500,000  pre-tax
restructuring  charge  which had the effect of  reducing  earnings  per share by
$.07.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
ITEM 7 - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
         FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
         OPERATIONS
         ---------------------------------------
GENERAL

     Statement of Financial  Accounting  Standards  No. 131,  "Disclosure  about
Segments of an Enterprise and Related  Information",  which became effective for
fiscal 1999, established new standards for reporting information about operating
segments.  The following  information  is presented in  accordance  with related
segment  results  presented  in  Note  6 of  "Notes  to  Consolidated  Financial
Statements."

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FISCAL 1999 COMPARED TO FISCAL 1998

     Net sales by business segment were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               Percentage
                                  1999             1998          Change
                                  ----             ----        ----------
                                       (millions)
     <S>                       <C>                <C>             <C>
     Garage doors              $  447.7           $444.0            .8%
     Installation services        240.7            177.1          35.9%
     Specialty plastic films      197.5            167.5          17.9%
     Electronic information
      and communication systems   177.1            156.9          12.9%
     Intersegment revenues        (30.3)           (30.6)
                               --------           ------
                               $1,032.7           $914.9          12.9%
                               ========           ======
</TABLE>

     Net sales of the garage doors segment increased by $3.7 million compared to
1998. The increase was  principally  attributable to higher unit sales of garage
doors ($18.9 million) due to strong  construction and related retail markets and
additional  production  capacity,  partly  offset by the effects of  competitive
pricing and the second quarter sale of a commercial product line.

     Net sales of the installation  services segment  increased by $63.6 million
compared to 1998. The second quarter  acquisition of an operation that sells and
installs a range of specialty  products to the residential  construction  market
accounted for $39.0  million of the increase.  The remainder of the increase was
principally  attributable  to the  segment's  internal  growth due to the strong
housing market, increased market share and expanded product line offerings.

     Net sales of the specialty  plastic films segment  increased  $30.0 million
compared to last year. Net sales of a 1998 fourth quarter acquisition  accounted
for $21.7 million of the increase. The remainder of the increase was principally
attributable  to higher unit volume in the segment's  60%-owned  joint  venture,
partially offset by price competition in the commodity end of the business.

     Net sales of the electronic  information and communication  systems segment
increased $20.2 million  compared to last year due to new programs and increased
funding on existing programs in the segment's defense, international and transit
markets.
<PAGE>
     Operating profit by business segment was as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             Percentage
                                      1999         1998        Change
                                      ----         ----      ----------
                                         (millions)
     <S>                             <C>          <C>          <C>
     Garage doors                    $27.9        $32.1        (13.0%)
     Installation services             6.5          4.6         41.4%
     Specialty plastic films            .6          7.4        (92.6%)
     Electronic information
      and communication systems       15.6         13.7         14.3%
                                     -----        -----
                                     $50.6        $57.8        (12.5%)
                                     =====        =====
</TABLE>

     Operating  profit of the garage  doors  segment  decreased  by $4.2 million
compared to 1998.  The  decrease  was  principally  due to  competitive  pricing
pressures,  expenses  associated with new distribution  centers and, through the
first six months, capacity constraints and related manufacturing  inefficiencies
and the operating  loss related to a divested  commercial  product line,  partly
offset by lower raw material costs and improved  manufacturing  efficiencies  in
the second half of the year.

     Operating  profit of the installation  services  segment  increased by $1.9
million  primarily due to the earnings from an acquired  company.  The effect of
remaining  revenue growth was offset primarily by higher  distribution and labor
costs to support the business' continuing expansion.

     Operating profit of the specialty  plastic films segment  decreased by $6.8
million  compared to last year.  Earnings of a late 1998 acquisition were offset
by the  effects  of  competitive  pricing,  increased  raw  material  costs  and
manufacturing  inefficiencies  related  to the  ramp-up of the  segment's  joint
venture operation.  Operating results of this segment strengthened in the fourth
quarter of the year, and it is anticipated that,  although pricing pressures are
likely  to  persist,   continued   volume-driven   improvement   and   increased
manufacturing efficiencies will result in improving operating results.

     Operating profit of the electronic  information and  communication  systems
segment  increased  by $2.0  million  compared to last year due to the effect of
increased   sales,   partly  offset  by  increased   research  and   development
expenditures.

     In addition to the operating results described above, in the second quarter
of fiscal  1999 the  company  recorded a $3.5  million  restructuring  charge in
connection with the closing of a garage door manufacturing  facility in order to
streamline  operations  and  improve  efficiency.  In  addition  to  divesting a
commercial  product line,  since the last half of 1998 and continuing  into 1999
the company has consolidated or closed several of garage doors' manufacturing or
distribution  facilities.  As a result of these actions,  facilities employed in
the garage doors segment were reduced by  approximately  400,000 square feet and
the  workforce was reduced by 244  employees,  including  approximately  100,000
square feet and 100  manufacturing  employees in connection  with the 1999 plant
closure.
<PAGE>
     Net interest expense increased by $3.7 million compared to last year due to
higher levels of outstanding  debt from  acquisitions  in late 1998 and in 1999,
from  borrowings to finance new  production  lines for specialty  plastic films'
joint venture and from lower investable balances.

FISCAL 1998 COMPARED TO FISCAL 1997

     Net sales by business segment were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                Percentage
                                  1998             1997           Change
                                  ----             ----         ----------
                                       (millions)
     <S>                         <C>              <C>             <C>
     Garage doors                $444.0           $381.9          16.3%
     Installation services        177.1            112.9          56.8%
     Specialty plastic films      167.5            163.7           2.3%
     Electronic information
      and communication systems   156.9            127.3          23.2%
     Intersegment revenues        (30.6)           (15.6)
                                 ------           ------
                                 $914.9           $770.2          18.8%
                                 ======           ======
</TABLE>

     Net sales of the garage doors segment  increased by $62.1 million  compared
to 1997.  A company  acquired  during 1997 that is  included  in 1998  operating
results  for the full year  accounted  for  approximately  $42.2  million of the
increase.  Higher unit sales of garage doors  resulting  from  continued  strong
demand in the  residential  and related  retail  markets,  partly  offset by the
effect of competitive pricing, contributed the remainder of the increase.

     Net sales of the  installation  services  segment  increased  $64.2 million
compared to last year.  Acquisitions,  including a company  acquired during 1997
that is included in 1998  operating  results  for the full year,  accounted  for
approximately  $45.9 million of the increase,  with the remainder  stemming from
geographic expansion and internal growth.

     Net sales of the specialty  plastic films segment increased by $3.8 million
compared to 1997.  In July 1998 the specialty  plastic films segment  acquired a
plastic  packaging  manufacturer  located in Germany which accounted for a sales
increase of $7.6 million.  Lower than anticipated sales from new programs in the
infant  diaper  market  contributed  to a modest  increase in unit  volume,  the
effects of which were offset by price  competition  in the  commodity end of the
segment's business, and a pass-through to customers of lower resin prices.

     Net sales of the electronic  information and communication  systems segment
increased  by $29.6  million,  principally  because  of new  program  awards and
increased  funding  levels on several  programs  in the  segment's  defense  and
international business.  Included were sales of approximately $22 million, a $10
million  increase  compared  to the prior  year,  under a  contract  to  provide
integrated  radio  management  and  communication  systems for a United  Kingdom
coastal surveillance aircraft program.
<PAGE>
     Operating profit by business segment was as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               Percentage
                                1998              1997           Change
                                ----              ----         ----------
                                       (millions)
     <S>                        <C>               <C>            <C>
     Garage doors               $32.1             $37.9          (15.2%)
     Installation services        4.6               3.8           20.8%
     Specialty plastic films      7.4               8.7          (14.0%)
     Electronic information
      and communication systems  13.7              12.1           12.6%
                                -----             -----
                                $57.8             $62.5           (7.5)%
                                =====             =====
</TABLE>

     Operating  profit of the garage  doors  segment  decreased  by $5.8 million
compared  to 1997.  The effect of the sales  growth  was  offset by  competitive
pricing pressures, capacity constraints and related manufacturing inefficiencies
due to delay in implementing an additional  production line, increased operating
expenses  associated  with new  distribution  centers and certain  manufacturing
inefficiencies related to production of commercial doors.

     Operating  profit of the  installation  services  segment  increased by $.8
million  compared  to last year due to the  increased  sales,  partly  offset by
higher costs to support the sales growth.

     Operating  profit of the specialty  plastic films segment  declined by $1.3
million  compared to last year. The segment  experienced  decreased  earnings in
fiscal  1998 due to lower than  anticipated  sales from new  programs  and price
competition  in the commodity end of the  segment's  business,  partly offset by
increased unit sales volume from new infant diaper programs and earnings from an
acquired company.

     Operating profit of the electronic  information and  communication  systems
segment increased by $1.6 million due to the increased sales.

     Net interest  expense  increased  by $1.2  million  compared to 1997 due to
higher levels of outstanding  debt in 1998 from  acquisitions  in 1997 and 1998,
from  borrowings to finance new  production  lines for specialty  plastic films'
joint venture and from lower investable balances in 1998.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

     Cash flow provided by operations  for 1999 was $15.9  million,  and working
capital was $189.0 million at September 30, 1999

     During 1999 the company acquired, in a cash transaction,  an operation with
annual  sales of  approximately  $50 million  that sells and installs a range of
specialty  products to the  residential  construction  market in Phoenix and Las
Vegas.  The purchase price of  approximately  $20 million was financed under the
company's bank credit lines.

     During  1999 the  company  increased  the  amount of its  revolving  credit
facility from $80,000,000 to $120,000,000.  Revolving credit at rates based upon
LIBOR or the prime rate is  available  through  2002,  after  which  outstanding
borrowings  may be converted  into a four-year  term loan. At September 30, 1999
$80,000,000 was outstanding under this facility.
<PAGE>
     The  company   rents   various   real   property  and   equipment   through
noncancellable  operating  leases.  Related future minimum lease payments due in
2000  approximate  $28 million and are expected to be funded  through  operating
cash flows.

     During the year,  the  company had capital  expenditures  of  approximately
$27.7 million,  including $8.6 million to upgrade and enhance strategic business
systems. The balance of capital expenditures were principally made in connection
with increasing production capacity,  including approximately $3 million for new
production  lines for its  specialty  plastic  films' joint  venture in Germany.
During 2000 the company anticipates capital expenditures of approximately $30 to
$35 million,  primarily in the garage doors and specialty plastic films segments
in   connection   with   additional   production   capacity  and   manufacturing
improvements,  and continuing the systems upgrade program. The company estimates
that aggregate capital expenditures for systems upgrade and enhancement programs
will be approximately  $40 million.  Through  September 30, 1999 the company had
incurred approximately $30 million of such costs with the balance to be incurred
through fiscal 2001.

     Anticipated cash flows from  operations,  together with existing cash, bank
lines of credit  and lease  line  availability,  should be  adequate  to finance
presently  anticipated working capital and capital expenditure  requirements and
to repay long-term debt as it matures.

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

     In 1998,  the American  Institute of Certified  Public  Accountants  issued
Statement of Position No. 98-5 (SOP 98-5),  "Reporting  on the Costs of Start-Up
Activities."  SOP 98-5,  which becomes  effective for the company's  fiscal year
ended  September  30,  2000,  sets  accounting   standards  in  connection  with
accounting and financial reporting related to costs of start-up activities.  SOP
98-5  requires  that,  at the date of  adoption,  costs of  start-up  activities
previously  capitalized  be  written-off  as a cumulative  effect of a change in
accounting  principle,  and further requires that such costs incurred subsequent
to adoption be expensed.  Consequently, in the first quarter of fiscal 2000, the
company's  60%-owned  joint  venture  will  be  required  to  write-off,  as the
cumulative  effect  of  a  change  in  accounting  principle,  costs  that  were
previously  capitalized  in connection  with the start-up of the venture and the
implementation of additional  production capacity.  The cumulative effect, after
taxes, of adopting SOP 98-5 will be approximately $5,300,000;  the effect on net
income,  after the minority  interest's share of the cumulative effect,  will be
approximately $3,200,000.

YEAR 2000

     The company has taken  actions in each of its  businesses  to address  Year
2000 issues in connection with the company's application software,  hardware and
related  operating  platforms  ("IT  Systems"),   embedded  technology  such  as
microcontrollers  used in production  equipment or products,  and third parties,
principally suppliers and customers.

     Within the installation  services,  specialty  plastic films and electronic
information  and  communication  systems  segments,  IT Systems were replaced or
modified such that the company believes them to be Year 2000 compliant.
<PAGE>
     The garage doors segment initially  expected that Year 2000 issues would be
addressed  within the context of a substantial  systems  upgrade and enhancement
program.  This program  however,  was running behind  schedule,  and in order to
remediate  identified  Year 2000  issues,  software  modifications  to  existing
systems were  implemented  and completed  such that they are believed to be Year
2000 compliant.

     With respect to embedded technology, inventories and assessments in each of
the company's  business  segments have been  completed.  Based on the results of
this  process,  the company  believes  that there are no  significant  Year 2000
exposures from embedded technology.

     The company  believes  that its  "reasonably  likely worst case  scenarios"
involve the failure of  significant  third  parties  with whom the company  does
business to address their Year 2000 issues.  Contingency  plans being  developed
include,  but are not limited to,  identification  of  alternate  suppliers  and
possible increases in inventory levels.

     In evaluating  the impact of Year 2000 on significant  third parties,  each
business  segment  identified  and contacted  the parties  involved or otherwise
attained an understanding  of such third parties' Year 2000 readiness.  Based on
the  results  of  this  process,   the  company  does  not  anticipate  a  major
interruption of its business activities.  However, that will be dependent on the
ability of significant third parties to be Year 2000 compliant,  a factor beyond
the ability of the company to control. Consequently,  while the company believes
that its actions are responsive to Year 2000 risks regarding  significant  third
parties,  it is not possible to eliminate such risks or to estimate the ultimate
effect that  significant  third  parties' Year 2000  readiness  will have on the
company's operating results.

     The company estimates that  approximately $2.5 million will be expended for
Year 2000 consulting costs, the majority of which was incurred through September
30, 1999. The company has not separately tracked all costs for Year 2000 efforts
since such  compliance  was expected to be achieved as an  ancillary  benefit of
budgeted  systems upgrade and enhancement  programs,  or principally  consist of
payroll and related costs for information systems personnel.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     All statements  other than  statements of historical  fact included in this
annual report,  including without limitation  statements regarding the company's
financial  position,  business  strategy,  Year 2000 readiness and the plans and
objectives   of  the   company's   management   for   future   operations,   are
forward-looking  statements.  When used in this  annual  report,  words  such as
"anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend" and similar expressions,
as they  relate  to the  company  or its  management,  identify  forward-looking
statements.  Such  forward-looking  statements  are based on the  beliefs of the
company's  management,  as well as assumptions made by and information currently
available to the company's  management.  Actual results could differ  materially
from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of certain
factors,  including  but not  limited  to,  business  and  economic  conditions,
competitive  factors and pricing pressures,  capacity and supply constraints and
the impact of any  disruption  or failure in normal  business  activities at the
company and its customers  and  suppliers as a consequence  of Year 2000 related
<PAGE>
problems.  Such  statements  reflect  the views of the company  with  respect to
future  events  and are  subject  to these and other  risks,  uncertainties  and
assumptions relating to the operations,  results of operations,  growth strategy
and liquidity of the company.  Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance
on  these  forward-looking  statements.  The  company  does  not  undertake  any
obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements
to reflect  future  events or  circumstances  or to reflect  the  occurrence  of
unanticipated events.

ITEM 7A -  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
           ---------------------------------------------------------

     Management does not believe that there is any material market risk exposure
with respect to derivative  or other  financial  instruments  that would require
disclosure under this item.

ITEM 8 -  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
          -------------------------------------------

     The financial statements of the company and its subsidiaries and the report
thereon of Arthur Andersen LLP, dated November 11, 1999 are included herein:

     -    Report of Independent Public Accountants.

     -    Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 1999 and 1998.

     -    Consolidated Statements of Income, Cash Flows and Shareholders' Equity
          for the years ended September 30, 1999, 1998, 1997.

     -    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
<PAGE>
                    REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
                    ----------------------------------------


To Griffon Corporation:


We  have  audited  the  accompanying  consolidated  balance  sheets  of  Griffon
Corporation (a Delaware  corporation)  and subsidiaries as of September 30, 1999
and  1998 and the  related  consolidated  statements  of  income,  shareholders'
equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September
30, 1999. These financial  statements and the schedule referred to below are the
responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits.

We  conducted  our  audits  in  accordance  with  generally   accepted  auditing
standards.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes
assessing the  accounting  principles  used and  significant  estimates  made by
management,  as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion,  the financial  statements  referred to above present fairly, in
all  material  respects,  the  financial  position  of Griffon  Corporation  and
subsidiaries  as of  September  30,  1999  and  1998  and the  results  of their
operations  and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended
September 30, 1999 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

Our  audits  were  made for the  purpose  of  forming  an  opinion  on the basic
financial  statements  taken as a whole.  The  schedule  listed  in the index to
consolidated  financial  statements  and  schedules is presented for purposes of
complying with the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and is not part of
the basic financial statements. This schedule has been subjected to the auditing
procedures  applied in the audits of the basic financial  statements and, in our
opinion,  fairly states in all material  respects the financial data required to
be set forth therein in relation to the basic  financial  statements  taken as a
whole.




                                      ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP





Roseland, New Jersey
November 11, 1999
<PAGE>
                              GRIFFON CORPORATION
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             September 30,
                                                         1999           1998
                                                     ------------   ------------
<S>                                                  <C>            <C>
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents                            $ 21,242,000   $ 19,326,000
Accounts receivable, less allowance
  for doubtful accounts of $8,068,000
  in 1999 and $7,476,000 in 1998 (Note 1)             123,008,000    114,784,000
Contract costs and recognized income
  not yet billed (Note 1)                              65,527,000     47,324,000
Inventories (Note 1)                                   94,419,000    104,517,000
Prepaid expenses and other current assets              22,832,000     20,675,000
                                                     ------------   ------------
  Total current assets                                327,028,000    306,626,000
                                                     ------------   ------------

Property, Plant and Equipment, at cost, net
  of depreciation and amortization (Note 1)           134,882,000    132,214,000
                                                     ------------   ------------
Other Assets:
Costs in excess of fair value of net assets
  of businesses acquired, net (Note 1)                 51,315,000     38,359,000
Other                                                  20,215,000     10,739,000
                                                     ------------   ------------
                                                       71,530,000     49,098,000
                                                     ------------   ------------
                                                     $533,440,000   $487,938,000
                                                     ============   ============
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Notes payable and current portion of long-term
  debt                                               $ 17,836,000   $  9,414,000
Accounts payable                                       58,540,000     62,542,000
Accrued liabilities (Note 1)                           61,629,000     63,178,000
Federal income taxes (Note 1)                                 ---      3,010,000
                                                     ------------   ------------
  Total current liabilities                           138,005,000    138,144,000
                                                     ------------   ------------
Long-Term Debt (Note 2)                               127,652,000    107,458,000
                                                     ------------   ------------
Minority Interest and Other                            17,562,000     12,247,000
                                                     ------------   ------------
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 4)

Shareholders' Equity (Note 3):
Preferred stock, par value $.25 per share,
  authorized 3,000,000 shares, no shares issued               ---            ---
Common stock, par value $.25 per share,
  authorized 85,000,000 shares, issued
  31,735,349 shares in 1999 and
  31,706,362 shares in 1998                             7,934,000      7,927,000
Capital in excess of par value                         41,232,000     40,053,000
Retained earnings                                     218,196,000    197,985,000
Treasury shares, at cost, 1,387,402
  common shares in 1999 and 1,287,002
  common shares in 1998                               (14,548,000)   (13,823,000)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (Note 1)        (1,074,000)           ---
Deferred compensation                                  (1,519,000)    (2,053,000)
                                                     ------------   ------------
  Total shareholders' equity                          250,221,000    230,089,000
                                                     ------------   ------------
                                                     $533,440,000   $487,938,000
                                                     ============   ============

<FN>
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part
of these statements.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
                              GRIFFON CORPORATION
                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,

                                                1999           1998          1997
                                          --------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                                       <C>              <C>            <C>
Net sales                                 $1,032,697,000   $914,874,000   $770,227,000
Cost of sales                                783,505,000    685,230,000    571,132,000
                                          --------------   ------------   ------------
                                             249,192,000    229,644,000    199,095,000
Selling, general and administrative
  expenses                                   207,499,000    180,211,000    144,663,000
Restructuring charge (Note 1)                  3,500,000            ---            ---
                                          --------------   ------------   ------------
                                              38,193,000     49,433,000     54,432,000
                                          --------------   ------------   ------------
Other income (expense):
  Interest expense                            (7,871,000)    (3,934,000)    (3,475,000)
  Interest income                                864,000        627,000      1,377,000
  Other, net                                     895,000        416,000        699,000
                                          --------------   ------------   ------------
                                              (6,112,000)    (2,891,000)    (1,399,000)
                                          --------------   ------------   ------------
Income before income taxes                    32,081,000     46,542,000     53,033,000
                                          --------------   ------------   ------------
Provision for income taxes (Note 1):
  State and foreign                            2,238,000      4,027,000      3,102,000
  Federal                                      9,632,000     13,194,000     16,767,000
                                          --------------   ------------   ------------
                                              11,870,000     17,221,000     19,869,000
                                          --------------   ------------   ------------

Net income                                $   20,211,000   $ 29,321,000   $ 33,164,000
                                          ==============   ============   ============

Earnings per share of common stock
 (Note 1):
  Basic                                   $          .67   $        .96   $       1.12
                                          ==============   ============   ============
  Diluted                                 $          .66   $        .94   $       1.06
                                          ==============   ============   ============

<FN>
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part
of these statements.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
                               GRIFFON CORPORATION
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,

                                                    1999            1998           1997
                                                ------------     -----------   ------------
<S>                                             <C>              <C>           <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income                                      $ 20,211,000     $29,321,000   $ 33,164,000
                                                ------------     -----------   ------------
  Adjustments to reconcile net income
    to net cash provided by operating
    activities:
  Depreciation and amortization                   23,013,000      16,255,000     11,452,000
  Provision for losses on accounts receivable      2,780,000       1,907,000      1,312,000
  Deferred income taxes                                  ---      (1,039,000)     2,942,000
  Non-cash asset write-downs from restructuring    2,150,000             ---            ---
  Change in assets and liabilities:
    Increase in accounts receivable
      and contract costs and recognized
      income not yet billed                      (22,727,000)    (15,070,000)   (15,750,000)
    (Increase) decrease in inventories             9,105,000     (14,058,000)       (21,000)
     Increase in prepaid expenses and
      other assets                                (8,382,000)     (5,587,000)    (7,120,000)
    Increase (decrease) in accounts
      payable, accrued liabilities and
      Federal income taxes                       (12,854,000)      4,393,000     12,975,000
    Other changes, net                             2,622,000       4,677,000      2,321,000
                                                ------------     -----------   ------------
  Total adjustments                               (4,293,000)     (8,522,000)     8,111,000
                                                ------------     -----------   ------------
      Net cash provided by operating activities   15,918,000      20,799,000     41,275,000
                                                ------------     -----------   ------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Net decrease in marketable  securities                   ---       1,379,000      2,918,000
Acquisition of property, plant and
   equipment                                     (27,697,000)    (48,002,000)   (25,793,000)
Proceeds from sales of product line
   and discontinued operations                     4,300,000             ---     10,518,000
Acquired businesses                              (20,172,000)    (26,445,000)   (40,953,000)
Other, net                                          (972,000)      2,142,000       (585,000)
                                                ------------     -----------   ------------
      Net cash used in investing activities      (44,541,000)    (70,926,000)   (53,895,000)
                                                ------------     -----------   ------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of treasury shares                         (725,000)     (5,580,000)    (4,223,000)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt          38,629,000      60,600,000     41,183,000
Payments of long-term debt                       (10,107,000)     (1,062,000)   (24,004,000)
Increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings       3,214,000          65,000     (3,968,000)
Other, net                                          (472,000)         16,000      1,200,000
                                                ------------     -----------   ------------
      Net cash provided by financing activities   30,539,000      54,039,000     10,188,000
                                                ------------     -----------   ------------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH
  EQUIVALENTS                                      1,916,000       3,912,000     (2,432,000)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR    19,326,000      15,414,000     17,846,000
                                                ------------     -----------   ------------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR        $ 21,242,000     $19,326,000   $ 15,414,000
                                                ============     ===========   ============
<FN>
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part
of these statements.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
                               GRIFFON CORPORATION
                CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
                             (Dollars in Thousands)

For the Years Ended September 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                  CAPITAL                                 ACCUMULATED
                                                     IN                                     OTHER
                                 COMMON STOCK     EXCESS OF RETAINED    TREASURY SHARES  COMPREHENSIVE    DEFERRED   COMPREHENSIVE
                               SHARES  PAR VALUE  PAR VALUE EARNINGS      SHARES   COST     INCOME      COMPENSATION    INCOME
                               ------  ---------  --------- --------      ------   ----  -------------  ------------ -------------
<S>                           <C>         <C>     <C>        <C>          <C>     <C>      <C>            <C>           <C>
Balances, September 30, 1996  29,253,848  $7,313  $32,764    $135,508     334,896 $ 2,851  $   ---        $  179
Net income                           ---     ---      ---      33,164         ---     ---      ---           ---        $ 33,164
Amortization of deferred                                                                                                ========
  compensation                       ---     ---      ---         ---         ---     ---      ---          (658)
ESOP purchase of Common
  Stock                              ---     ---      ---         ---         ---     ---      ---         3,000
Conversion of Second
  Preferred Stock              1,573,679     394      ---         ---         ---     ---      ---           ---
Purchase of treasury shares          ---     ---      ---         ---     313,969   4,223      ---           ---
Exercise of stock options        443,627     111    2,094         ---         ---     ---      ---           ---
Retirement of treasury
shares                               ---     ---     (441)        ---     (45,165)   (452)     ---           ---
Other                              7,676       2      147          (8)       ---      ---      ---           100
                               ---------  ------  -------    --------   ---------  ------  -------        ------
Balances, September 30, 1997  31,278,830   7,820   34,564     168,664     603,700   6,622      ---         2,621

Net income                           ---     ---      ---      29,321         ---     ---      ---           ---        $ 29,321
Amortization of deferred                                                                                                ========
  compensation                       ---     ---      ---         ---         ---     ---      ---          (668)
Purchase of treasury shares          ---     ---      ---         ---     562,700   5,580      ---           ---
Exercise of stock options        426,786     107    4,427         ---         ---     ---      ---           ---
Retirement of treasury
  shares                          (5,717)     (2)     (96)        ---      (5,717)    (98)     ---           ---
Other                              6,463       2    1,158         ---     126,319   1,719      ---           100
                              ----------  ------  -------    --------   ---------  ------  -------        ------
Balances, September 30, 1998  31,706,362   7,927   40,053     197,985   1,287,002  13,823      ---         2,053

Foreign currency translation
   adjustment                        ---     ---      ---         ---         ---     ---     (631)          ---        $   (631)
Minimum pension liability
   adjustment                        ---     ---      ---         ---         ---     ---     (443)          ---            (443)
Net income                           ---     ---      ---      20,211         ---     ---      ---           ---          20,211
                                                                                                                        --------
   Comprehensive income              ---     ---      ---         ---         ---     ---      ---           ---        $ 19,137
Amortization of deferred                                                                                                ========
  compensation                       ---     ---      ---         ---         ---     ---      ---          (634)
Purchase of treasury shares          ---     ---      ---         ---     100,400     725      ---           ---
Exercise of stock options         19,400       5      156         ---         ---     ---      ---           ---
Other                              9,587       2    1,023         ---         ---     ---      ---           100
                              ----------  ------  -------    --------   --------- -------  -------        ------
Balances, September 30, 1999  31,735,349  $7,934  $41,232    $218,196   1,387,402 $14,548  $(1,074)       $1,519
                              ==========  ======  =======    ========   ========= =======  =======        ======

<FN>
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part
of these statements.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
                              GRIFFON CORPORATION
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.  SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

Consolidation

     The  consolidated  financial  statements  include  the  accounts of Griffon
Corporation and all subsidiaries.  All significant  intercompany items have been
eliminated in consolidation.

Use of estimates

     The  preparation  of financial  statements  in  conformity  with  generally
accepted  accounting  principles  requires  management  to  make  estimates  and
assumptions  that  affect  the  reported  amounts  of  assets  and  liabilities,
disclosure of  contingent  assets and  liabilities  at the date of the financial
statements,  and the  reported  amount  of  revenues  and  expenses  during  the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Cash flows, investments and credit risk

     The company  considers all highly liquid debt instruments  purchased with a
maturity  of three  months or less to be cash  equivalents.  Cash  payments  for
interest were approximately $9,141,000,  $5,353,000 and $3,325,000 in 1999, 1998
and 1997, respectively.

     A substantial portion of the company's trade receivables are from customers
of the garage doors and installation services segments whose financial condition
is dependent on the construction and related retail sectors of the economy.

Comprehensive income

     Statement   of  Financial   Accounting   Standards   No.  130,   "Reporting
Comprehensive  Income",  which became effective for fiscal 1999, establishes the
rules  for  the   reporting  of   comprehensive   income  and  its   components.
Comprehensive   income  is  presented   in  the   consolidated   statements   of
shareholders' equity and consists of net income and other items of comprehensive
income  such as minimum  pension  liability  adjustments  and  foreign  currency
translation adjustments.

     The financial statements of all foreign subsidiaries were prepared in their
respective  local  currencies  and  translated  into U.S.  Dollars  based on the
current exchange rate at the end of the period for the balance sheet and average
exchange rates for results of operations.

     The components of  accumulated  other  comprehensive  income in 1999 were a
foreign  currency  translation  adjustment  of  $631,000  and a minimum  pension
liability adjustment of $443,000.

Accounting for long-term contracts

     The company records sales and gross profits on its long-term contracts on a
percentage-of-completion  basis. The company  determines sales and gross profits
by (1) relating costs incurred to current estimates of total manufacturing costs
of such  contracts  or (2) based  upon a unit of  shipment  basis.  General  and
administrative expenses are expensed as incurred. Revisions in estimated profits
are made in the period in which the circumstances  requiring the revision become
known.  Provisions  are made  currently for  anticipated  losses on  uncompleted
contracts.
<PAGE>
     "Contract  costs  and  recognized   income  not  yet  billed"  consists  of
recoverable  costs and accrued profit on long-term  contracts for which billings
had not been presented to the customers because the amounts were not billable at
the balance sheet date.

Inventories

     Inventories,  stated at the lower of cost (first-in,  first-out or average)
or market,  include  material,  labor and  manufacturing  overhead costs and are
comprised of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             SEPTEMBER 30,
                                        1999               1998
                                   ------------        ------------
<S>                                <C>                 <C>
Finished goods                     $ 51,157,000        $ 58,176,000
Work in process                      23,405,000          27,011,000
Raw materials and supplies           19,857,000          19,330,000
                                   ------------        ------------
                                   $ 94,419,000        $104,517,000
                                   ============        ============
</TABLE>
Property, plant and equipment

     Depreciation  of property,  plant and equipment is provided  primarily on a
straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets.

     Leasehold  improvements are amortized over the life of the lease or life of
the improvement, whichever is shorter

          Property, plant and equipment consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           SEPTEMBER 30,
                                       1999               1998
                                   ------------        ------------
<S>                                <C>                 <C>
Land, buildings and building
  improvements                     $ 37,384,000        $ 31,359,000
Machinery and equipment             157,122,000         153,066,000
Leasehold improvements               12,528,000          10,518,000
                                   ------------        ------------
                                    207,034,000         194,943,000
Less-Accumulated depreciation and
  Amortization                       72,152,000          62,729,000
                                   ------------        ------------
                                   $134,882,000        $132,214,000
                                   ============        ============
</TABLE>
Acquisitions  and  costs in  excess of fair  value of net  assets of  businesses
acquired ("Goodwill")

     In February 1999 the company acquired, in a cash transaction,  an operation
with annual sales of  approximately  $50,000,000 that sells and installs a range
of specialty products to the residential construction market. The purchase price
of  approximately  $20,000,000  was financed  under the company's  bank lines of
credit.

In July 1998 the company  acquired Bhme  Verpackungsfolien  GmbH & Co., a German
plastic packaging  manufacturer with annual sales of approximately  $35,000,000.
The purchase price of approximately  $28,000,000 was  substantially  financed by
borrowings under a subsidiary's bank credit agreement.
<PAGE>
     In July 1997 the company acquired Holmes-Hally  Industries,  a manufacturer
and installer of residential garage doors and related hardware with annual sales
of approximately  $80,000,000.  The purchase price of approximately  $35,000,000
was financed through  borrowings  under existing lines of credit.  Also acquired
during 1997 in cash  transactions  were several other companies  involved in the
installation of building products.

     The above acquisitions have been accounted for as purchases and resulted in
an increase in goodwill of $14,486,000 in 1999 and $3,883,000 in 1998.  Goodwill
is being  amortized on a  straight-line  basis over a period of forty years.  At
September 30, 1999 and 1998, accumulated amortization of goodwill was $9,208,000
and $7,505,000,  respectively. The operating results of acquired businesses have
been  included  in the  consolidated  statements  of  income  since the dates of
acquisition.

Income taxes

     The provision for income taxes is comprised of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                        1999               1998                1997
                    -----------         -----------         -----------
<S>                 <C>                 <C>                 <C>
Current             $11,870,000         $18,260,000         $16,927,000
Deferred                    ---          (1,039,000)          2,942,000
                    -----------         -----------         -----------
                    $11,870,000         $17,221,000         $19,869,000
                    ===========         ===========         ===========
</TABLE>
     The deferred taxes result  primarily  from  differences in the reporting of
depreciation,  the  allowance  for  doubtful  accounts  and other  nondeductible
accruals.

     Cash  payments  for  income  taxes  were   $16,938,000,   $19,670,000   and
$15,328,000 in 1999, 1998 and 1997, respectively.

     The following table indicates the significant elements  contributing to the
difference  between  the U.S.  Federal  statutory  tax  rate  and the  company's
effective tax rate:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                   1999           1998           1997
                                   ----           ----           ----
<S>                                <C>            <C>            <C>
U.S. Federal statutory
  Tax rate                         35.0%          35.0%          35.0%
State and foreign
  income taxes                      4.4            5.6            3.8
Other                              (2.4)          (3.6)          (1.3)
                                   ----           ----           ----
Effective tax rate                 37.0%          37.0%          37.5%
                                   ====           ====           ====
</TABLE>

Research and development costs

     Research  and   development   costs  not  recoverable   under   contractual
arrangements  are  charged  to expense as  incurred.  Approximately  $8,900,000,
$7,700,000 and $7,700,000 in 1999, 1998 and 1997, respectively,  was incurred on
such research and development.
<PAGE>
Accrued liabilities

     At September 30, 1999 and 1998, accrued  liabilities  included  $16,434,000
and $17,960,000 respectively, for payroll and other employee benefits.

Earnings per share (EPS)

     Basic EPS is calculated by dividing income available to common shareholders
by the weighted average number of shares of Common Stock outstanding  during the
period.   Income  available  to  common   shareholders   ($20,211,000  in  1999,
$29,321,000  in 1998 and  $33,157,000  in 1997)  used in  determining  basic EPS
reflects  deductions  of  $7,000  in 1997 for  Preferred  Stock  dividends.  The
weighted average number of shares of Common Stock used in determining  basic EPS
was 30,374,000 in 1999, 30,553,000 in 1998 and 29,664,000 in 1997.

     Diluted  EPS  is  calculated  by  dividing   income   available  to  common
shareholders,  adjusted  to  add  back  dividends  or  interest  on  convertible
securities, by the weighted average number of shares of Common Stock outstanding
plus  additional   common  shares  that  could  be  issued  in  connection  with
potentially dilutive securities. Income available to common shareholders used in
determining  diluted  EPS was  $20,211,000  in  1999,  $29,321,000  in 1998  and
$33,164,000 in 1997. The weighted  average number of shares of Common Stock used
in  determining  diluted  EPS was  30,551,000  in 1999,  31,316,000  in 1998 and
31,231,000 in 1997 and reflects additional shares in connection with convertible
preferred stock (642,000 shares in 1997) and stock option and other  stock-based
compensation  plans (177,000 shares in 1999,  763,000 shares in 1998 and 925,000
shares in 1997).  Options to  purchase  approximately  3,088,000  and  1,000,000
shares were not included in the  computation  of diluted  earnings per share for
the  years  1999  and  1998,   respectively,   because  the  effects   would  be
anti-dilutive.

Start-up costs

     In 1998,  the American  Institute of Certified  Public  Accountants  issued
Statement of Position No. 98-5 (SOP 98-5),  "Reporting  on the Costs of Start-Up
Activities".  SOP 98-5,  which  becomes  effective  for the  fiscal  year  ended
September 30, 2000, sets accounting  standards in connection with accounting and
financial reporting related to costs of start-up  activities.  SOP 98-5 requires
that,  at  the  date  of  adoption,  costs  of  start-up  activities  previously
capitalized  be  written-off  as a cumulative  effect of a change in  accounting
principle,  and further requires that such costs incurred subsequent to adoption
be expensed.  Consequently,  in the first quarter of fiscal 2000,  the company's
60%-owned joint venture will be required to write-off,  as the cumulative effect
of a change in accounting principle,  costs that were previously  capitalized in
connection with the start-up of the venture and the implementation of additional
production  capacity.  The cumulative effect,  after taxes, of adopting SOP 98-5
will be approximately  $5,300,000;  the effect on net income, after the minority
interest's share of the cumulative effect, will be approximately $3,200,000.
<PAGE>
Restructuring charge and sale of product line

     In March 1999 the  company  recorded  a  restructuring  charge  aggregating
$3,500,000  in  connection  with  the  closing  of a garage  door  manufacturing
facility in order to streamline  operations and improve  efficiency.  The charge
consists of the following:

<TABLE>
     <S>                                         <C>
     Non-cash asset write-downs                  $2,150,000
     Employee severance and related benefits        900,000
     Lease and related costs                        450,000
                                                 ----------
     Total restructuring charge                  $3,500,000
                                                 ==========
</TABLE>
     Since  the last  half of 1998 and  continuing  into  1999 the  company  has
consolidated  or  closed  several  garage  door  manufacturing  or  distribution
facilities. Also, in March 1999 the company completed the sale, at approximately
book value, of a peripheral  0product line,  which was operating at a loss. As a
result of these actions,  facilities employed in the garage doors operation were
reduced by  approximately  400,000  square feet and the workforce was reduced by
244 employees, including approximately 100,000 square feet and 100 manufacturing
employees in connection with the March 1999 plant closure.  The majority of cash
expenditures  for  restructuring  costs are expected to be paid within one year;
through  September  30,  1999  approximately  $435,000  was  paid  for  employee
severance  and  related  benefits  and  $190,000  was paid for lease and related
costs.

2. LONG-TERM DEBT:

     During  1999 the  company  increased  the  amount of its  revolving  credit
facility from $80,000,000 to $120,000,000. Revolving credit is available through
2002, after which outstanding  borrowings may be converted into a four-year term
loan.  Borrowings  bear  interest at rates (7.0% as of September 30, 1999) based
upon LIBOR or at the prime rate and are secured by the capital  stock of certain
of  the  company's  subsidiaries.  As of  September  30,  1999  $80,000,000  was
outstanding under this agreement.

     In April 1998 the  company's  German  joint  venture  entered into a credit
agreement  with a bank to finance new  production  lines.  Borrowings  under the
agreement are payable in  installments  through 2001, and bear interest at rates
(4.0% as of  September  30,  1999) based upon LIBOR.  As of  September  30, 1999
approximately $18,491,000 was outstanding under this agreement.

     In connection  with an  acquisition in July 1998 (see Note 1), a subsidiary
of the company  entered into a credit  agreement  with a bank for  borrowings of
approximately  $20,000,000,  payable in installments  through 2005.  Outstanding
borrowings  under the agreement bear interest at rates (4.1% as of September 30,
1999) based upon LIBOR. As of September 30, 1999  approximately  $19,678,000 was
outstanding under this agreement.

     The balance of the company's  long-term  debt  outstanding at September 30,
1999 relates  primarily to real estate  mortgages  and  industrial  revenue bond
financing,  with interest rates ranging from 4.9% to 8.9% and maturities through
2014.
<PAGE>
     The following are the maturities of long-term debt outstanding at September
30, 1999 for each of the succeeding five years:
<TABLE>
                    <S>                 <C>
                    2000                $11,836,000
                    2001                 11,464,000
                    2002                 16,871,000
                    2003                 18,437,000
                    2004                 24,331,000
</TABLE>
3.  SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:

     During 1997 the company called for redemption its Second Preferred Stock at
the  redemption  price of $10.00 per share plus  accrued  and unpaid  dividends.
Holders of 1,524,429  shares of Second  Preferred  Stock  converted their shares
into an equal number of shares of Common Stock,  and 45,165 shares were redeemed
for cash.

     The company has stock option plans under which  options for an aggregate of
6,250,000  shares of Common  Stock may be  granted.  As of  September  30,  1999
options for 1,155,000  shares  remain  available  for future  grants.  The plans
provide for the  granting of options at an exercise  price of not less than 100%
of the fair market value per share at date of grant.  Options  generally  expire
ten  years  after  date of grant  and  become  exercisable  in  installments  as
determined  by the  Board of  Directors.  Transactions  under  the  plans are as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  NUMBER        WEIGHTED AVERAGE
                                                OF SHARES         EXERCISE PRICE
                                                ---------       ----------------
<S>                                             <C>                   <C>
Outstanding at September 30,
  1996                                          2,744,000             $ 7.30
Granted                                           776,500             $13.44
Exercised                                        (217,214)            $ 7.36
Terminated                                         (3,250)            $ 8.04
                                                ---------
Outstanding at September 30,
  1997                                          3,300,036             $ 8.74
Granted                                         2,061,500             $13.35
Exercised                                        (426,786)            $ 4.06
Terminated                                        (43,250)            $13.10
                                                ---------
Outstanding at September 30,
  1998                                          4,891,500             $11.05
Granted                                         1,127,500             $ 8.38
Exercised                                         (19,400)            $ 8.29
Terminated                                       (815,100)            $ 7.97
                                                ---------
Outstanding at September 30,
  1999                                          5,184,500             $10.97
                                                =========
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
     At September  30, 1999 option groups  outstanding  and  exercisable  are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    Outstanding Options
                       ------------------------------------------------
                                          Weighted             Weighted
                                          Average               Average
    Range of           Number of          Remaining            Exercise
 Exercise Price         Options             Life                Price
 --------------        ---------          ---------            ---------
<S>                    <C>                <C>                    <C>
$10.875 to $15.75      2,782,500          8.3 years              $13.26
$ 6.625 to $10.00      2,402,000          7.2                      8.31

                                      Exercisable Options
                       ------------------------------------------------
                                                               Weighted
                                                                Average
     Range of          Number of                               Exercise
  Exercise Price        Options                                  Price
 --------------        ---------                               ---------
$11.125 to $15.75      1,710,250                                 $13.38
$ 6.625 to $9.375      1,407,000                                   8.46
</TABLE>
     Statement  of  Financial  Accounting  Standards  No. 123,  "Accounting  for
Stock-Based  Compensation",  became  effective  for the  fiscal  year  beginning
October 1, 1996,  and  permits an entity to  continue  to account  for  employee
stock-based  compensation under APB Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued
to  Employees",  or adopt a fair  value  based  method  of  accounting  for such
compensation.  The company  has  elected to continue to account for  stock-based
compensation under Opinion No. 25. Accordingly, no compensation expense has been
recognized in connection  with options  granted.  Had  compensation  expense for
options granted been determined  based on the fair value at the date of grant in
accordance  with  Statement  No. 123, the  company's net income and earnings per
share would have been as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                              1999                 1998                 1997
                           -----------         -----------           -----------
<S>                        <C>                 <C>                   <C>
Net income
  As reported              $20,211,000         $29,321,000           $33,164,000
  Pro forma                 15,071,000          24,902,000            31,099,000

Earnings per share
As reported -
  Basic                           $.67                $.96                 $1.12
  Diluted                          .66                 .94                  1.06

Pro forma -
  Basic                           $.50                $.82                 $1.05
  Diluted                          .49                 .80                  1.00
</TABLE>

The fair value of options  granted is  estimated  on the date of grant using the
Black-Scholes  option pricing model. The weighted average fair values of options
granted in fiscal 1999, 1998 and 1997 were $3.89, $6.52 and $6.96, respectively,
based upon the following weighted average assumptions: expected volatility (.321
in 1999, .350 in 1998 and .372 in 1997), risk-free interest rate (5.67% in 1999,
5.67%  in 1998 and  6.40% in  1997),  expected  life (7 years in 1999,  1998 and
1997), and expected dividend yield (0% in 1999, 1998 and 1997).
<PAGE>
     The company has an Outside Director Stock Award Plan (the "Outside Director
Plan"),  which was approved by the  shareholders  in 1994,  under which  300,000
shares may be issued to non-employee directors. Annually, each eligible director
is awarded shares of the company's  Common Stock having a value of $10,000 which
vests over a three-year  period.  For shares  issued under the Outside  Director
Plan,  the fair  market  value of the  shares  at the date of  issuance  will be
amortized to compensation  expense over the vesting period. The related deferred
compensation has been reflected as a reduction of shareholders' equity. In 1999,
1998 and 1997, 9,710,  6,660 and 7,690 shares,  respectively,  were issued under
the Outside Director Plan.

     As of September 30, 1999, a total of approximately  7,100,000 shares of the
company's  authorized  Common  Stock were  reserved  for  issuance  primarily in
connection with stock option plans.

     The company has a shareholder  rights plan which  provides for one right to
be  attached  to each  share of Common  Stock.  The  rights  are  currently  not
exercisable  or  transferable  apart from the Common  Stock,  and have no voting
power. Under certain circumstances,  each right entitles the holder to purchase,
for  $34,  one  one-thousandth  of a  share  of a new  series  of  participating
preferred stock, which is substantially equivalent to one share of Common Stock.
These rights would become  exercisable if a person or group acquires 10% or more
of the company's  Common Stock or announces a tender offer which would  increase
the person's or group's  beneficial  ownership  to 10% or more of the  company's
Common Stock,  subject to certain  exceptions.  After a person or group acquires
10% or more of the company's Common Stock,  each right (other than those held by
the acquiring  party) will entitle the holder to purchase  Common Stock having a
market  price of two times the exercise  price.  If the company is acquired in a
merger or other business combination, each exercisable right entitles the holder
to purchase  common  stock of the  acquiring  company or an  affiliate  having a
market price of two times the exercise price of the right. In certain events the
Board of  Directors  may  exchange  each  right  (other  than  those  held by an
acquiring   party)  for  one  share  of  the  company's   Common  Stock  or  one
one-thousandth of a share of a new series of participating  preferred stock. The
rights  expire on May 9, 2006 and can be  redeemed at $.01 per right at any time
prior to becoming exercisable.

4.  COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:

     The company and its  subsidiaries  rent real property and  equipment  under
operating  leases  expiring at various dates.  Most of the real property  leases
have escalation clauses related to increases in real property taxes.

     Future minimum payments under noncancellable  operating leases consisted of
the following at September 30, 1999:
<TABLE>
                <S>                     <C>
                    2000                $ 28,300,000
                    2001                  18,800,000
                    2002                  11,000,000
                    2003                   7,800,000
                    2004                   6,100,000
                Later years                7,100,000
</TABLE>

<PAGE>
     Rent  expense  for  all  operating  leases,   net  of  subleases,   totaled
approximately  $27,400,000,  $24,500,000 and $19,800,000 in 1999, 1998 and 1997,
respectively.

     The  company  is subject to various  laws and  regulations  concerning  the
environment  and is  currently  participating  in  proceedings  under these laws
involving sites formerly owned or occupied by the company. These proceedings are
at a preliminary  stage, and it is impossible to estimate with any certainty the
amount  of  the  liability,  if  any,  of the  company,  or the  total  cost  of
remediation  and the timing and extent of remedial  actions which may ultimately
be required by governmental authorities.  However, management believes, based on
facts presently known to it, that the outcome of such  proceedings will not have
a material adverse effect on the company's  consolidated  financial  position or
results of operations.

5.  QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED):

     Quarterly  results of operations for the years ended September 30, 1999 and
1998 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            QUARTERS ENDED
                      -----------------------------------------------------------

                      SEPTEMBER 30,     JUNE 30,       MARCH 31,      DECEMBER 31,
                          1999            1999           1999            1998
                      ------------    ------------   ------------   -------------
<S>                   <C>             <C>            <C>            <C>
Net sales             $275,367,000    $262,413,000   $236,360,000   $258,557,000
Gross profit            72,273,000      64,468,000     50,325,000     62,126,000
Net income (loss)        9,703,000       5,817,000     (2,461,000)     7,152,000
Earnings (loss) per
  share of common
  stock:
  Basic                       $.32         $   .19          $(.08)          $.24
  Diluted                     $.32         $   .19          $(.08)          $.23

                                            QUARTERS ENDED
                      -----------------------------------------------------------
                      SEPTEMBER 30,     JUNE 30,       MARCH 31,      DECEMBER 31,
                          1998            1998           1998            1997
                      ------------    ------------   ------------   -------------
Net sales             $256,577,000    $229,407,000   $199,859,000   $229,031,000
Gross profit            65,847,000      57,113,000     48,761,000     57,923,000
Net income              10,935,000       6,753,000      3,118,000      8,515,000
Earnings per share
  of common stock:
  Basic                       $.36            $.22           $.10           $.28
  Diluted                     $.35            $.22           $.10           $.27
<FN>
        Earnings per share are computed  independently  for each of the quarters
presented,  on the basis described in Note 1. The sum of the quarters may not be
equal to the full year  earnings  per share  amounts.  Net loss for the  quarter
ended March 31, 1999  includes a $3,500,000  pre-tax  restructuring  charge (see
Note 1).
</FN>
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
6.  BUSINESS SEGMENTS:


     Statement of Financial  Accounting  Standards No. 131,  "Disclosures  about
Segments of an Enterprise and Related  Information",  which became effective for
fiscal 1999, establishes new standards for reporting information about operating
segments,  and the  restatement  of such  information  for  prior  periods.  The
following  information is presented in accordance with the  requirements of this
Statement.

     The company's  reportable  business  segments are as follows - Garage Doors
(manufacture and sale of residential and commercial/industrial garage doors, and
related  products);  Installation  Services (sale and  installation  of building
products  primarily  for new  construction,  such as garage  doors,  garage door
openers,  manufactured  fireplaces  and  surrounds,  and  cabinets);  Electronic
Information and Communication Systems (communication and information systems for
government and commercial markets); and Specialty Plastic Films (manufacture and
sale of plastic films and film  laminates for baby diapers,  adult  incontinence
care  products,  disposable  surgical  and  patient  care  products  and plastic
packaging).  The company's reportable segments are distinguished from each other
by types of products and services offered, classes of customers,  production and
distribution methods, and separate management.

     The  company  evaluates   performance  and  allocates  resources  based  on
operating  results before interest  income or expense,  income taxes and certain
nonrecurring  items  of  income  or  expense.  The  accounting  policies  of the
reportable  segments  are  the  same  as  those  described  in  the  summary  of
significant  accounting  policies.   Intersegment  sales  are  based  on  prices
negotiated  between the  segments,  and  intersegment  sales and profits are not
eliminated in evaluating performance of a segment.
<PAGE>
Information on the company's business segments is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           Electronic
                                                           Information
                                                              and         Specialty
                                Garage      Installation  Communication    Plastic
                                 Doors        Services       Systems       Films          Totals
                                ------      ------------  -------------  ------------  -------------
<S>                           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
Revenues from external
 customers -
1999                          $418,395,000  $239,737,000  $177,091,000  $197,474,000  $1,032,697,000
1998                           414,588,000   175,919,000   156,864,000   167,503,000     914,874,000
1997                           366,922,000   112,289,000   127,298,000   163,718,000     770,227,000
Intersegment revenues -
1999                          $ 29,318,000   $   932,000  $        ---  $        ---  $   30,250,000
1998                            29,419,000     1,197,000           ---           ---      30,616,000
1997                            15,017,000       634,000           ---           ---      15,651,000
Segment profit -
1999                          $ 27,933,000  $  6,518,000  $ 15,616,000  $    550,000  $   50,617,000
1998                            32,107,000     4,611,000    13,665,000     7,446,000      57,829,000
1997                            37,879,000     3,816,000    12,139,000     8,660,000      62,494,000
Segment assets -
1999                          $158,747,000  $ 89,231,000  $124,766,000  $124,760,000  $  497,504,000
1998                           159,864,000    62,488,000   111,033,000   127,736,000     461,121,000
1997                           144,857,000    54,308,000   100,118,000    63,686,000     362,969,000
Segment capital
 expenditures -
1999                          $ 15,804,000  $    797,000  $  2,728,000  $  8,254,000  $   27,583,000
1998                            13,501,000     1,773,000     3,889,000    28,765,000      47,928,000
1997                             8,118,000       591,000     3,817,000    13,247,000      25,773,000
Depreciation and
 amortization expense -
1999                          $  6,562,000  $  1,884,000  $  3,047,000  $ 11,000,000  $   22,493,000
1998                             6,170,000     1,407,000     2,698,000     5,466,000      15,741,000
1997                             5,035,000       951,000     2,222,000     2,680,000      10,888,000
</TABLE>

     Following  are   reconciliations   of  segment  profit,   assets,   capital
expenditures,  and depreciation and amortization  expense to amounts reported in
the consolidated financial statements:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       1999           1998           1997
                                                   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                                                <C>            <C>            <C>
Profit -
Profit for all segments                            $ 50,617,000   $ 57,829,000   $ 62,494,000
Unallocated amounts                                  (8,029,000)    (7,980,000)    (7,363,000)
Restructuring charge (Note 1)                        (3,500,000)           ---        ---
Interest expense, net                                (7,007,000)    (3,307,000)    (2,098,000)
                                                   ------------   ------------   ------------
   Income before income taxes                      $ 32,081,000   $ 46,542,000   $ 53,033,000
                                                   ============   ============   ============
Assets -
Total for all segments                             $497,504,000   $461,121,000   $362,969,000
Unallocated amounts                                  38,219,000     33,639,000     22,899,000
Intersegment eliminations                            (2,283,000)    (6,822,000)    (1,109,000)
                                                   ------------   ------------   ------------
   Total consolidated assets                       $533,440,000   $487,938,000   $384,759,000
                                                   ============   ============   ============
Capital Expenditures -
Total for all segments                             $ 27,583,000   $ 47,928,000   $ 25,773,000
Unallocated amounts                                     114,000         74,000         20,000
                                                   ------------   ------------   ------------
   Total consolidated capital expenditures         $ 27,697,000   $ 48,002,000   $ 25,793,000
                                                   ============   ============   ============
Depreciation and amortization expense -
Total for all segments                             $ 22,493,000   $ 15,741,000   $ 10,888,000
Unallocated amounts                                     520,000        514,000        564,000
                                                   ------------   ------------   ------------
  Total consolidated depreciation and amortization $ 23,013,000   $ 16,255,000   $ 11,452,000
                                                   ============   ============   ============
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
Revenues,  based on the customers' locations,  and property, plant and equipment
attributed to the United States and all other countries are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      1999           1998          1997
                                                  ------------    ------------  ------------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>           <C>
Revenues by geographic
 area -
United States                                     $  834,057,000  $760,009,000  $663,064,000
Germany                                               64,666,000    37,865,000    37,119,000
United Kingdom                                        44,697,000    37,756,000    23,066,000
All other countries                                   89,277,000    79,244,000    46,978,000
                                                  --------------  ------------  ------------
  Consolidated net sales                          $1,032,697,000  $914,874,000  $770,227,000
                                                  ==============  ============  ============
Property,plant and
 equipment by geographic
 area -
United States                                     $   90,874,000  $ 79,979,000  $ 68,530,000
Germany                                               44,008,000    52,235,000     8,550,000
                                                  --------------  ------------  ------------
  Consolidated property,
    plant and equipment                           $  134,882,000  $132,214,000  $ 77,080,000
                                                  ==============  ============  ============
</TABLE>
     Sales  to  a  customer  of  the   specialty   plastic  films  segment  were
approximately $115,000,000 in 1999, $96,000,000 in 1998 and $82,000,000 in 1997.
Sales to the  United  States  government  and its  agencies,  either  as a prime
contractor  or  subcontractor,  aggregated  approximately  $86,000,000  in 1999,
$79,000,000  in 1998 and  $65,000,000  in 1997, all of which are included in the
electronic  information and communication  systems segment.  Unallocated amounts
include  general  corporate  expenses and assets,  which consist mainly of cash,
investments, and other assets not attributable to any reportable segment.

ITEM 9 - CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
         FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
         ---------------------------------------------------------------

                                    PART III
                                    --------

     The  information  required by Part III is  incorporated by reference to the
company's  definitive  proxy  statement in connection with its Annual Meeting of
Stockholders  scheduled  to be held in  February,  2000,  to be  filed  with the
Securities  and Exchange  Commission  within 120 days  following  the end of the
company's  fiscal year ended  September  30, 1999.  Information  relating to the
officers of the Registrant appears under Item 1 of this report.
<PAGE>
                                     PART IV
                                     -------

ITEM 14 - EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES,
          AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
          ----------------------------------------

          The following consolidated financial statements of Griffon Corporation
     and subsidiaries are included in Item 8:


                                                                      Page
                                                                      ----

  (a) 1. Financial Statements
         --------------------

        Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30,
           1999 and 1998...........................................     27

           Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years
           Ended September 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997.................     28

        Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the
           Years Ended September 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997...........     29

        Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity
           for the Years Ended September 30, 1999, 1998
           and 1997................................................     30

        Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.................     31

<PAGE>
                                                                     Page
                                                                     ----
(a) 2. Schedule
       --------
        II  Valuation and Qualifying Accounts..................      S-1

    Schedules  other  than  those  listed  are  omitted  because  they  are  not
    applicable  or  because  the   information   required  is  included  in  the
    consolidated financial statements.

(b) Reports on Form 8-K:
    -------------------
       None

(c)    Exhibits:
       --------
Exhibit No.

     3.1  Restated Certificate of Incorporation (Exhibit 3.1 of Annual Report on
          Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1995)

     3.2  By-laws  as amended  (Exhibit  3 of  Current  Report on Form 8-K dated
          November 8, 1994)

     4.1  Rights  Agreement  dated as of May 9, 1996 between the  Registrant and
          American Stock Transfer Company (Exhibit 1.1 of Current Report on Form
          8-K dated May 9, 1996)

     4.2  Loan  Agreement  dated as of August 31, 1999  between  the  Registrant
          and lending institutions

     10.1 Employment   Agreement  dated  as  of  October  1,  1998  between  the
          Registrant  and Harvey R. Blau (Exhibit 10.1 of Current Report on Form
          8-K dated November 5, 1998)

     10.2 Employment   Agreement  dated  as  of  October  1,  1998  between  the
          Registrant and Robert Balemian (Exhibit 10.2 of Current Report on Form
          8-K dated November 5, 1998)

     10.3 Form of Trust Agreement  between the Registrant and U.S. Trust Company
          of California,  N.A., as Trustee,  relating to the company's  Employee
          Stock  Ownership  Plan (Exhibit 10.3 of Annual Report on Form 10-K for
          the year ended September 30, 1994)

     10.4 1992  Non-Qualified  Stock Option Plan (Exhibit 10.10 of Annual Report
          on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1993)

     10.5 Non-Qualified  Stock Option Plan  (Exhibit  10.12 of Annual  Report on
          Form 10K for the year ended September 30, 1998)

     10.6 Form of  Indemnification  Agreement  between  the  Registrant  and its
          officers and directors (Exhibit 28 to Current Report on form 8-K dated
          May 3, 1990)
<PAGE>
    10.7  Outside  Director Stock Award Plan (Exhibit 4 of Form S-8 Registration
          Statement No. 33-52319)

    10.8  1995 Stock Option Plan (Exhibit 4 of Form S-8  Registration  Statement
          No. 33-57683)

    10.9  1997 Stock Option Plan (Exhibit 4.2 of Form S-8 Registration Statement
          No. 333-21503)

    10.10 1998  Stock  Option  Plan  (Exhibit  4.1  of  Form  S-8   Registration
          Statement No. 333-62319)

    10.11 Senior  Management  Incentive  Compensation  Plan (Exhibit 4.2 of Form
          S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-62319)

    10.12 1998 Employee and Director Stock Option Plan, as amended  (Exhibit 4.3
          of Form S-8  Registration  Statement No.  333-62319 and Exhibit 4.1 of
          Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-84409)

    21    The following  lists the  company's  significant  subsidiaries  all of
          which  are   wholly-owned  by  the  company.   The  names  of  certain
          subsidiaries   which  do  not,  when   considered  in  the  aggregate,
          constitute a significant subsidiary, have been omitted.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                         State of
               Name of Subsidiary                     Incorporation
               ------------------                     --------------

               <S>                                      <C>
               Clopay Corporation                       Delaware
               Telephonics Corporation                  Delaware
</TABLE>

     23*  Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP

     27*  Financial Data Schedule (for electronic submission only)

- -------

  * Filed herewith.  All other exhibits are incorporated herein by reference to
the exhibit indicated in the parenthetical references.
<PAGE>
The following  undertakings  are  incorporated  into the company's  Registration
Statements  on  Form  S-8  (Registration  Nos.  33-39090,   33-62966,  33-52319,
33-57683, 333-21503, 333-62319 and 333-84409).

(a)     The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:

     (1) To file,  during any period in which  offers or sales are being made, a
post-effective amendment to this registration statement:

     (i)  To  include  any  prospectus  required  by  Section  10(a)(3)  of  the
Securities Act of 1933;

     (ii) To  reflect in the  prospectus  any fact or events  arising  after the
effective date of the registration  statement (or the most recent post-effective
amendment  thereof)  which,  individually  or  in  the  aggregate,  represent  a
fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement;

     (iii) To  include  any  material  information  with  respect to the plan of
distribution  not  previously  disclosed  in the  registration  statement or any
material change to such information in the registration statement;

     Provided, however, that paragraphs (a)(1)(i) and (a)(1)(ii) do not apply if
the  registration  statement  is on Form S-3 or Form  S-8,  and the  information
required to be included in a  post-effective  amendment by those  paragraphs  is
contained in periodic reports filed by the registrant  pursuant to Section 13 or
Section 15(d) of the Securities  Exchange Act of 1934 that are  incorporated  by
reference in the registration statement.

     (2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities
Act of 1933,  each  such  post-effective  amendment  shall be deemed to be a new
registration  statement  relating to the  securities  offered  therein,  and the
offering thereof.

     (3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective  amendment any
of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the
offering.

     (b) The  undersigned  registrant  hereby  undertakes  that, for purposes of
determining  any liability  under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the
registrant's  annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (and, where applicable,  each filing of an employee benefit
plan's annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934) that is incorporated by reference in the  registration  statement shall be
deemed to be a new  registration  statement  relating to the securities  offered
therein,  and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be
the initial bona fide offering thereof.
<PAGE>
 (i) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act
of 1933 may be permitted to directors,  officers and controlling  persons of the
registrant pursuant to the foregoing  provisions,  or otherwise,  the registrant
has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities  and Exchange  Commission
such  indemnification  is against  public policy as expressed in the Act and is,
therefore,  unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against
such liabilities  (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred
or paid by a director,  officer or  controlling  person of the registrant in the
successful  defense of any  action,  suit or  proceeding)  is  asserted  by such
director,  officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being
registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter
has been  settled by  controlling  precedent,  submit to a court of  appropriate
jurisdiction the question whether such  indemnification  by it is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of
such issue.
<PAGE>
     Pursuant  to the  requirements  of  Section  13 or 15(d) of the  Securities
Exchange  Act of 1934,  the  company has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the  undersigned,  thereunto  duly  authorized  on the 20th day of
December, 1999.

                                       GRIFFON CORPORATION

                                       By: /s/ Harvey R. Blau
                                           -------------------------------------
                                           Harvey R. Blau, Chairman of the Board

     Pursuant to the  requirements of the Securities  Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed  below on December 20, 1999 by the  following  persons in
the capacities indicated:


/s/ Harvey R. Blau                Chairman of the Board
Harvey R. Blau                    (Principal Executive Officer)

/s/ Robert Balemian               President and Director
Robert Balemian                   (Principal Operating and Financial Officer)

/s/ Patrick L. Alesia             Vice President and Treasurer
Patrick L. Alesia                 (Chief Accounting Officer)

/s/ Henry A. Alpert               Director
Henry A. Alpert

/s/ Bertrand M. Bell              Director
Bertrand M. Bell

                                  Director
- ------------------------
Abraham M. Buchman

/s/ Clarence A. Hill, Jr.         Director
Clarence A. Hill, Jr.

/s/ Ronald J. Kramer              Director
Ronald J. Kramer

/s/ James W. Stansberry           Director
James W. Stansberry

/s/ Martin S. Sussman             Director
Martin S. Sussman

/s/ William H. Waldorf            Director
William H. Waldorf

/s/ Joseph J. Whalen              Director
Joseph J. Whalen

                                  Director
- ------------------------
Lester L. Wolff
<PAGE>
                                                                     SCHEDULE II

                      GRIFFON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

                SCHEDULE II -- VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

             FOR THE YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999, 1998 AND 1997

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  Additions                         Deductions
                                                          -------------------------          -------------------------
                                         Balance at       Charged to     Charged to            Accounts                  Balance at
                                         Beginning        Profit and       Other               Written                      End
        Description                      of Period           Loss         Accounts               Off          Other       of Period
- -------------------------------------- ------------      ------------    -----------         ------------  -----------  ------------

<S>                                    <C>               <C>             <C>
FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999:
  Allowance for doubtful accounts      $  7,476,000      $  2,780,000    $   154,000         $  2,342,000  $       ---  $  8,068,000
                                       ============      ============    ===========         ============  ===========  ============

FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998:
  Allowance for doubtful accounts      $  6,627,000      $  1,907,000    $   243,000        $  1,301,000   $       ---  $  7,476,000
                                       ============      ============    ===========         ============  ===========  ============
FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997:
  Allowance for doubtful accounts      $  4,519,000      $  1,312,000   $ 1,719,000 (1)     $    923,000   $       ---  $  6,627,000
                                       ============      ============    ===========         ============  ===========  ============
<FN>
(1) Principally related to acquired businesses.
</FN>
</TABLE>



- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------



                                 LOAN AGREEMENT

                                  by and among


                              GRIFFON CORPORATION,

                           THE LENDERS PARTY HERETO,

                       FLEET BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,

                            AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT

                                      and

                THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, AS DOCUMENTATION AGENT

                          Dated as of August 31, 1999



- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

Article 1       Definitions..............................................      1

Article 2       Commitments; Loans.......................................     23

     Section 2.1.    Loans...............................................     23
     Section 2.2.    Notices Relating to Loans...........................     23
     Section 2.3.    Disbursement of Loan Proceeds.......................     24
     Section 2.4.    Notes...............................................     24
     Section 2.5.    Repayment of Principal of Loans.....................     25
     Section 2.6.    Interest............................................     26
     Section 2.7.    Fees................................................     27
     Section 2.8.    Voluntary Changes in Commitment; Prepayments  After
                     Commitment Termination Date.........................     27
     Section 2.9.    Use of Proceeds of Loans; Existing Indebtedness.....     28
     Section 2.10.   Computations........................................     29
     Section 2.11.   Minimum Amounts of Borrowings, Conversions,
                     Prepayments and Interest Periods....................     29
     Section 2.12.   Time and Method of Payments.........................     29
     Section 2.13.   Lending Offices.....................................     30
     Section 2.14.   Failure to Fund.....................................     30
     Section 2.15.   Pro Rata Treatment Between Banks....................     30
     Section 2.16.   Sharing of Payments, and Set-Off Among Banks........     31
     Section 2.17.   Conversions of Loans................................     31
     Section 2.18.   Additional Costs; Capital Requirements..............     32
     Section 2.19.   Limitation on Types of Loans........................     33
     Section 2.20.   Illegality..........................................     34
     Section 2.21.   Certain Conversions pursuant to Sections 2.18 and
                     2.20................................................     34
     Section 2.22.   Indemnity...........................................     35
     Section 2.23.   Security............................................     36

Article 3       Representations and Warranties...........................     36

     Section 3.1.    Organization........................................     37
     Section 3.2.    Power, Authority, Consents..........................     37
     Section 3.3.    No Violation of Law or Agreements...................     38
     Section 3.4.    Due Execution, Validity, Enforceability.............     38
     Section 3.5.    Properties, Priority of Liens; Existing Guarantees..     38
     Section 3.6.    Judgments, Actions, Proceedings.....................     39
     Section 3.7.    No Defaults, Compliance With Laws...................     39
     Section 3.8.    Burdensome Documents................................     39
     Section 3.9.    Financial Statements................................     39
<PAGE>
     Section 3.10.   Tax Returns.........................................     40
     Section 3.11.   Intangible Assets...................................     40
     Section 3.12.   Regulation U........................................     40
     Section 3.13.   Name Changes, Mergers, Acquisitions.................     41
     Section 3.14.   Full Disclosure.....................................     41
     Section 3.15.   Licenses and Approvals..............................     41
     Section 3.16.   Labor Disputes; Collective Bargaining Agreements;
                     Employee Grievances.................................     41
     Section 3.17.   Condition of Assets.................................     42
     Section 3.18.   ERISA...............................................     42
     Section 3.19.   Year 2000 Issue.....................................     44

Article 4       Conditions to the Loans..................................     45

     Section 4.1.    Conditions to Initial Loans.........................     45
     Section 4.2.    Conditions to Subsequent Loans......................     46

Article 5       Delivery of Financial Reports, Documents and Other
                Information..............................................     46

     Section 5.1.    Annual Financial Statements.........................     47
     Section 5.2.    Quarterly Financial Statements......................     47
     Section 5.3.    Projections.........................................     47
     Section 5.4.    Compliance Information..............................     48
     Section 5.5.    No Default Certificate..............................     48
     Section 5.6.    Certificate of Accountants..........................     48
     Section 5.7.    Accountants, Reports................................     48
     Section 5.8.    Copies of Documents.................................     48
     Section 5.9.    Certain Notices.....................................     49
     Section 5.10.   ERISA Notices and Requests..........................     49
     Section 5.11.   Permitted Acquisition Deliveries....................     50

Article 6       Affirmative Covenants....................................     51

     Section 6.1.    Books and Records...................................     51
     Section 6.2.    Inspections and Audits..............................     51
     Section 6.3.    Maintenance and Repairs.............................     51
     Section 6.4.    Continuance of Business.............................     51
     Section 6.5.    Copies of Corporate Documents.......................     52
     Section 6.6.    Perform Obligations.................................     52
     Section 6.7.    Notice of Litigation................................     52
     Section 6.8.    Insurance...........................................     52
     Section 6.9.    Financial Covenants.................................     53
     Section 6.10.   Notice of Certain Events............................     53
     Section 6.11.   Comply with ERISA...................................     54
     Section 6.12.   Environmental Compliance............................     54
<PAGE>
     Section 6.13.   Year 2000 Issue.....................................     54
     Section 6.14.   Projections.........................................     55

Article 7       Negative Covenants.......................................     55

     Section 7.1.    Indebtedness........................................     55
     Section 7.2.    Liens...............................................     55
     Section 7.3.    Guaranties..........................................     57
     Section 7.4.    Mergers, Acquisitions...............................     57
     Section 7.5.    Redemptions; Distributions..........................     57
     Section 7.6.    Stock Issuance......................................     58
     Section 7.7.    Changes in Business and Sales or Pledges of Assets..     58
     Section 7.8.    Investments.........................................     58
     Section 7.9.    Fiscal Year.........................................     60
     Section 7.10.   ERISA Obligations...................................     60
     Section 7.11.   Reserved............................................     60
     Section 7.12.   Transactions with Affiliates........................     60
     Section 7.13.   Hazardous Material..................................     61
     Section 7.14.   Regulation U........................................     61
     Section 7.15.   Limitations on Restrictions on Upstreaming of Funds.     62
     Section 7.16.   Derivative Protection Arrangements..................     62

Article 8       Events of Default........................................     62

     Section 8.1.    Payments............................................     62
     Section 8.2.    Certain Covenants...................................     62
     Section 8.3.    Other Covenants.....................................     63
     Section 8.4.    Other Defaults......................................     63
     Section 8.5.    Representations and Warranties......................     63
     Section 8.6.    Bankruptcy..........................................     63
     Section 8.7.    Judgments...........................................     64
     Section 8.8.    ERISA...............................................     64
     Section 8.9.    Liens...............................................     65
     Section 8.10.   Change of Control...................................     65

Article 9       Miscellaneous Provisions.................................     65

     Section 9.1.    Fees and Expenses, Indemnity........................     65
     Section 9.2.    Taxes...............................................     66
     Section 9.3.    Payments............................................     67
     Section 9.4.    Survival of Agreements and Representations;
                     Construction........................................     67
     Section 9.5.    Lien on and Set-off of Deposits.....................     68
     Section 9.6.    Modifications, Consents and Waivers; Entire
                     Agreement...........................................     68
     Section 9.7.    Remedies Cumulative.................................     69
     Section 9.8.    Further Assurances..................................     69
<PAGE>
     Section 9.9.    Notices.............................................     70
     Section 9.10.   Counterparts........................................     71
     Section 9.11.   Severability........................................     71
     Section 9.12.   Binding Effect; No Assignment or Delegation by
                     Borrower............................................     72
     Section 9.13.   Assignments and Participations by Banks.............     72
     Section 9.14.   Relief From Bankruptcy Stay.........................     74
     Section 9.15.   Governing Law; Consent to Jurisdiction; Waiver of
                     Trial by Jury.......................................     75
     Section 9.16.   Prior Agreement.....................................     76
     Section 9.17.   Interest Adjustment.................................     76
     Section 9.18.   Lost Notes..........................................     76

Article 10      The Administrative Agent.................................     77

     Section 10.1.   Appointment.........................................     77
     Section 10.2.   Individual Capacity.................................     77
     Section 10.3.   Exculpatory Provisions..............................     77
     Section 10.4.   Reliance by Administrative Agent....................     78
     Section 10.5.   Delegation..........................................     78
     Section 10.6.   Resignation; Successor Administrative Agent.........     78
     Section 10.7.   NonReliance on Other Credit Parties.................     79

                                    EXHIBITS
                                    --------
A-1     Form of Note
A-2     Form of Pledge Agreement
B.      States of Incorporation and Qualification, and Capitalization
        and Ownership of Stock, of Borrower and Subsidiaries
C.      Consents, Waivers, Approvals; Violation of Agreements
D.      Permitted Security Interests, Liens and Encumbrances
E.      Judgements, Actions, Proceedings
F.      Defaults; Compliance with Laws, Regulations, Agreements
G.      Burdensome Documents
H.      Name Changes, Mergers, Acquisitions
I.      Labor Disputes; Collective Bargaining Agreements; Employee
        Grievances
J.      Pension Plans
K.      Permitted Contingent Obligations and Guaranties and Existing
        Guarantees, Contingent Obligations and Investments
L.      Form of Assignment and Acceptance

                                    SCHEDULE
                                    --------
I.      Rollover Eurodollar Loans
<PAGE>
                                 LOAN AGREEMENT
                                 ---- ---------

     THIS LOAN AGREEMENT, made this 31st day of August, 1999 (this "Agreement"),
is by and among GRIFFON  CORPORATION,  a Delaware  corporation (the "Borrower"),
the several banks and other parties from time to time that are permitted parties
hereto  (individually,  a "Bank" and,  collectively,  the "Banks"),  FLEET BANK,
NATIONAL  ASSOCIATION,  a  national  banking  association,  in its  capacity  as
Administrative  Agent (as  hereinafter  defined) and THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, a
New York  banking  corporation,  in its  capacity  as  Documentation  Agent  (as
hereinafter defined).

                              W I T N E S S E T H:
                              - - - - - - - - - -

     WHEREAS,  the  Borrower  wishes  to  obtain  loans  from  the  Banks in the
aggregate   principal  sum  of  up  to  One  Hundred  Twenty   Million   Dollars
($120,000,000),  and the Banks are willing to make such loans to the Borrower in
an  aggregate  principal  amount of up to such sum on the  terms and  conditions
hereinafter set forth;

     NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:

     Article 1 Definitions.
               -----------

     As used in this  Agreement,  in addition to the other terms defined herein,
the following terms shall have the following meanings:

     "Additional Costs" is defined in subsection 2.18(b) hereof.

     "Adjusted Net Income" means, for any period, the aggregate income (or loss)
for such period  which shall be an amount equal to net revenues and other proper
items of income, plus extraordinary and unusual non-cash losses for such period,
less any and all items that are treated as  expenses  under  generally  accepted
accounting  principles,  less,  without  duplication,  Federal,  state and local
income  taxes and income  taxes  expensed  for taxes  payable  to  jurisdictions
outside of the United States,  and less extraordinary and unusual non-cash gains
for such period, as determined in accordance with generally accepted  accounting
principles.

     "Administrative  Agent" means Fleet Bank, National Association,  a national
banking  association,  in its capacity as  administrative  and collateral  agent
pursuant  to the terms  and  conditions  of this  Agreement,  and any  successor
thereto.

     "Affected Loans" is defined in Section 2.21 hereof.

     "Affected Type" is defined in Section 2.21 hereof.
<PAGE>
     "Affiliate"  means,  as to any Person,  any other  Person that  directly or
indirectly controls,  or is under common control with, or is controlled by, such
Person. As used in this definition,  "control" (including,  with its correlative
meanings,   "controlled   by"  and  "under  common  control  with")  shall  mean
possession, directly or indirectly, of power to direct or cause the direction of
management or policies  (whether through  ownership of securities or partnership
or other ownership interests,  by contract or otherwise),  provided that, in any
event:  (i) any  Person  that owns  directly  or  indirectly  10% or more of the
securities  having  ordinary voting power for the election of directors or other
governing  body of a  corporation  or 10% or more of the  partnership  or  other
ownership interests of any other Person (other than as a limited partner of such
other Person) will be deemed to control such  corporation  or other Person;  and
(ii)  each  director  and  officer  of the  Borrower  shall be  deemed  to be an
Affiliate of the Borrower.

     "Agent" means the Administrative Agent or the Documentation Agent.

     "Agents"  means  the  Administrative  Agent  and  the  Documentation  Agent
collectively.

     "Aggregate  Revolving  Commitment" means, at any time, the sum at such time
of the Commitments of all the Banks.

     "Aggregate  Revolving Exposure" means, at any time, the sum at such time of
the outstanding principal balance of the Loans of all the Banks.

     "Applicable  Lending office" means, with respect to each Bank, with respect
to each type of Loan,  the Lending  Office as  designated  for such type of Loan
below its name on the  signature  pages hereof or such other office of such Bank
or of an  affiliate  of such Bank as such Bank may from time to time  specify to
the  Borrower  as the  office at which its Loans of such type are to be made and
maintained.

     "Applicable Margin" means as at any date of determination  thereof,  (i) if
the Funded Debt to Cash Flow Ratio is less than 1.50 to 1.00,  then with respect
to any Prime Rate Loans,  0%, and with respect to any Eurodollar  Loans,  1.00%;
and (ii) if the Funded Debt to Cash Flow Ratio is equal to or greater  than 1.50
to 1.00, then with respect to any Prime Rate Loans,  0%, and with respect to any
Eurodollar  Loans,  1.50%. The  determination  of the applicable  percentage set
forth above shall be made on a quarterly  basis based on an  examination  of the
financial  statements  of the Borrower  delivered  pursuant to and in compliance
with Section 5.1 or Section 5.2 hereof;  provided,  however, that the applicable
percentages  as of the date of this  Agreement  shall be as set  forth in clause
(ii) above until adjusted  pursuant to this  definition;  and provided  further,
that upon the occurrence and during the  continuance of a Default or an Event of
Default (other than a Default or Event of Default under Section 8.1 hereof), the
Applicable Margin shall be 1% in excess of the applicable  percentages set forth
in clause (ii) above.
<PAGE>
     The  determination  of the  applicable  percentage set forth above shall be
made on a quarterly basis based on an examination of the financial statements of
the Borrower delivered pursuant to and in compliance with Section 5.1 or Section
5.2 hereof. Each determination of the Applicable Margin shall be effective as of
(a) January 15 of each year with respect to financial statements to be delivered
pursuant  to Section  5.1 hereof and (b) the first day of the  calendar  quarter
following the date on which the financial statements on which such determination
was based were to be delivered pursuant to Section 5.2 hereof. In the event that
financial  statements for the four full fiscal quarters most recently  completed
prior to such date of determination  either:  (i) have not been delivered to the
Banks in compliance with Section 5.1 or 5.2 hereof, or (ii) if delivered, do not
comply in form or substance with Section 5.1 or 5.2 hereof (in the sole judgment
of the Banks), then the Banks may determine,  in their reasonable judgment,  the
ratio  referred  to above that  would  have been in effect as at such date,  and
consequently,  the Applicable Margin in effect for the period commencing on such
date.

     "Assessment  Rate"  means,  at any  time,  the rate  (rounded  upwards,  if
necessary,  to the  nearest  1/100 of 1%) then  charged by the  Federal  Deposit
Insurance  Corporation (or any successor) to the applicable Principal Office for
deposit  insurance  for  Dollar  time  deposits  with such  Principal  Office as
determined by such Principal Office.

     "Assignment and Acceptance" - an agreement in the form of Exhibit L hereto.

     "Bohme"  means   Bohme-Clopay   Verpackungsfolien   GmbH,  a   wholly-owned
subsidiary  of Clopay  Plastic  Products  and  successor  in  interest  to Bohme
Verwaltungs-Gesellschaft mbH and Bohme GmbH & Co. KG Verpackungsfolien.

     "Borrowing Date" means any Business Day on which the Banks make Loans.

     "Borrowing Notice" is defined in Section 2.2 hereof.

     "Business Day" means, any day other than Saturday,  Sunday or any other day
on which  commercial  banks in New York City are authorized or required to close
under the laws of the State of New York.

     "Capital  Expenditures"  means for any period,  the sum of (a) expenditures
for  any  fixed  assets  or  improvements  and  replacements,  substitutions  or
additions  thereto which would be treated as capital  expenditures in accordance
with  generally  accepted  accounting  principles  and  (b) the  portion  of all
payments  with  respect  to each  Capitalized  Lease  which are  required  to be
capitalized  on the balance sheet of the  applicable  lessee in accordance  with
generally accepted accounting  principles.

     "Capitalized  Lease" means,  any lease the obligations to pay rent or other
amounts under which constitute Capitalized Lease Obligations.
<PAGE>
     "Capitalized Lease Obligations" means, as to any Person, the obligations of
such Person to pay rent or other  amounts  under a lease of (or other  agreement
conveying the right to use) real and/or personal  property which obligations are
required to be  classified  and  accounted  for as a capital  lease on a balance
sheet of such Person under  generally  accepted  accounting  principles and, for
purposes  of this  Agreement,  the  amount  of  such  obligations  shall  be the
capitalized  amount thereof,  determined in accordance  with generally  accepted
accounting principles.

     "Cash" means, as to any Person, such Person's cash and cash equivalents, as
defined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles consistently
applied.

     "Change of Control" means (a) the acquisition by any Person, or two or more
Persons acting in concert,  of beneficial  ownership (within the meaning of Rule
13d-3 of the Securities and Exchange  Commission  under the Securities  Exchange
Act of 1934) of 30% or more of the  outstanding  shares of  voting  stock of the
Borrower, or (b) during any period of 25 consecutive calendar months, commencing
on the date of this Agreement, the ceasing of those individuals (the "Continuing
Directors") who (i) were directors of the Borrower on the first day of each such
period or (ii)  subsequently  became directors of the Borrower and whose initial
election or initial nomination for election subsequent to that date was approved
by a majority of the Continuing  Directors then on the board of directors of the
Borrower, to constitute a majority of the board of directors of the Borrower.

     "Chase" means The Chase Manhattan Bank, a New York banking corporation,  in
its capacity as a Bank hereunder.

     "Clopay" means Clopay Corporation, a Delaware corporation.

     "Clopay Plastic  Products" means Clopay Plastic Products  Company,  Inc., a
Delaware Corporation.

     "Clopay   Service"   means  Clopay  Service   Company,   Inc.,  a  Delaware
Corporation.

     "Code" means the Internal  Revenue Code of 1986,  as it may be amended from
time to time.

     "Commitment"  means,  as to each Bank,  the amount set forth  opposite such
Bank's name on the signature pages hereof under the caption "Commitment" as such
amount is subject to reduction in accordance with the terms hereof, which amount
includes,  with respect to Chase and Fleet, the principal amount of all Rollover
Eurodollar Loans.

     "Commitment Fee" is defined in subsection 2.7(a) hereof.
<PAGE>
"Commitment Termination Date" means October 1, 2002.

     "Compliance  Certificate" means a certificate  executed by the president or
chief  financial  officer  of the  Borrower  to the effect  that:  (i) as of the
effective  date of the  certificate,  no Default or Event of Default  under this
Agreement exists or would exist after giving effect to the action intended to be
taken by the  Borrower as  described  in such  certificate,  including,  without
limitation,  that the  covenants  set forth in Section  6.9 hereof  would not be
breached  after giving effect to such action,  together  with a  calculation  in
reasonable detail, and in form and substance  satisfactory to the Administrative
Agent  and  the   Documentation   Agent,  of  such  compliance,   and  (ii)  the
representations  and warranties  contained in Article 3 hereof are true and with
the same effect as though such  representations  and warranties were made on the
date of such certificate,  except for changes in the ordinary course of business
none of which,  either singly or in the aggregate,  have had a Material  Adverse
Effect.

     "Contingent  Obligation"  as  applied  to any  Person,  means any direct or
indirect   liability,   contingent  or  otherwise,   of  that  Person,   without
duplication:  (a) with  respect to any  indebtedness,  lease,  dividend or other
obligation  of  another  Person if the  primary  purpose or intent of the Person
incurring such liability, or the primary effect thereof, is to provide assurance
to the obligee of such liability that such liability will be paid or discharged,
or that any  agreements  relating  thereto  will be complied  with,  or that the
holders of such  liability  will be protected (in whole or in part) against loss
with respect  thereto;  (b) with respect to any letter of credit  issued for the
account  of that  Person or as to which  that  Person is  otherwise  liable  for
reimbursement of drawings; (c) under any interest rate swap agreement,  interest
rate cap agreement, interest rate collar agreement or other similar agreement or
arrangement  designed to protect that Person  against  fluctuations  in interest
rates; or (d) under any foreign  exchange  contract,  currency swap agreement or
other similar  agreement or arrangement  designed to protect that Person against
fluctuations in currency values.  Contingent  Obligations  shall include (i) the
direct or indirect  guaranty,  endorsement (other than for collection or deposit
in the ordinary  course of business),  co-making,  discounting  with recourse or
sale  with  recourse  by such  Person of the  obligation  of  another,  (ii) the
obligation to make  take-or-pay  or similar  payments if required  regardless of
nonperformance  by any other  party or  parties to an  agreement,  and (iii) any
liability of such Person for the obligations of another through any agreement to
purchase,  repurchase  or  otherwise  acquire  such  obligation  or any property
constituting security therefor, to provide funds for the payment or discharge of
such obligation or to maintain the solvency,  financial condition or any balance
sheet  item or  level  of  income  of  another.  The  amount  of any  Contingent
Obligation  shall be equal to the  amount of the  obligation  so  guaranteed  or
otherwise supported or, if not a fixed and determined amount, the maximum amount
so guaranteed.

     "Controlled  Group" means all members of a controlled group of corporations
and all trades or businesses  (whether or not incorporated) under common control
which,  together  with the  Borrower,  are  treated as a single  employer  under
Section 414(b), 414(c) or 414(m) of the Code and Section 4001(a)(14) of ERISA.
<PAGE>
     "Credit  Party" means the  Administrative  Agent or a Bank, as the case may
be.

     "Current  Assets"  means current  assets as  determined in accordance  with
generally  accepted  accounting  principles,   consistently  applied;  provided,
however,  that any of such assets that are subject to a pledge, lien or security
interest held by any Person to secure  payment of any  Indebtedness  that is not
included in Current  Liabilities  shall be excluded  from Current  Assets to the
extent of such Indebtedness.

     "Current   Liabilities"  means  current   liabilities,   as  determined  in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles,  consistently applied,
and shall include, as of the date of determination thereof: (i) all Indebtedness
payable on demand or maturing within one year after such date without any option
on the part of the  obligor  to extend or renew  beyond  such  year,  (ii) final
maturities,  installments  and prepayments of  Indebtedness  required to be made
within one year after such date, (iii) the unpaid principal balance of the Notes
due within one year after such date, and (iv) all other items  (including  taxes
accrued as estimated and reserves for deferred  income taxes) that in accordance
with generally accepted  accounting  principles,  would be included on a balance
sheet as current liabilities.

     "Debt Instrument" is defined in subsection 8.4(a) hereof.

     "Default" means an event which with notice or lapse of time, or both, would
constitute an Event of Default.

     "Defined  Contribution  Plan" means a plan which is not covered by Title IV
of ERISA or subject to the minimum funding  standards of Section 412 of the Code
and which  provides  for an  individual  account  for each  participant  and for
benefits based solely on the amount  contributed to the  participant's  account,
and any income,  expenses,  gains and losses, and any forfeitures of accounts of
other participants which may be allocated to such participant's account.

     "Derivative  Protection  Arrangement" means (i) any interest rate swap, cap
or collar  arrangement or any other derivative  product  customarily  offered by
banks or other financial  institutions to their customers in order to reduce the
exposure of such  customers to interest  rate  fluctuations,  as the same may be
amended,  supplemented  or  otherwise  modified  from  time to time or (ii)  any
foreign exchange contract, currency swap agreement or other similar agreement or
arrangement  customarily  offered by banks or other  financial  institutions  to
their  customers  designed to protect such  customers  against  fluctuations  in
currency values.
<PAGE>
     "Documentation  Agent" means The Chase  Manhattan  Bank, a New York banking
corporation,  in its capacity as  Documentation  Agent pursuant to the terms and
conditions of this Agreement, and any successor thereto.

     "Dollars" and "$" means lawful currency of the United States of America.

     "Domestic Debt Service Coverage Ratio" means, for any period,  the ratio of
(a) EBITDA of the  Domestic  Loan Parties on a  consolidated  basis for the most
recently  completed  four fiscal  quarters of the Domestic  Loan Parties  minus,
Federal, state and local income taxes expensed with respect to the most recently
completed four fiscal  quarters  minus,  Unfunded  Capital  Expenditures  of the
Domestic Loan Parties on a  consolidated  basis for the most recently  completed
four fiscal  quarters to (b) the current portion of Long-term  Indebtedness  for
borrowed money of the Domestic Loan Parties on a consolidated  basis outstanding
as of the last day of such period plus,  Interest  Expense of the Domestic  Loan
Parties on a  consolidated  basis for the most  recently  completed  four fiscal
quarters,  all  determined  in accordance  with  generally  accepted  accounting
principles consistently applied.

     "Domestic Funded Debt Coverage Ratio" means,  for any period,  the ratio of
(a) Long-term  Indebtedness for borrowed money of the Domestic Loan Parties on a
consolidated  basis  plus,  without  duplication,  any  Indebtedness  for  money
borrowed of the Domestic Loan Parties on a consolidated  basis which will be due
and payable  during the  immediately  succeeding  twelve month period plus,  the
Domestic  Guarantee  Amount, in each case outstanding as of the last day of such
period,  to (b) EBITDA of the Domestic Loan Parties on a consolidated  basis for
the  most  recently  completed  four  fiscal  quarters  minus  Unfunded  Capital
Expenditures  of the Domestic Loan Parties on a consolidated  basis for the most
recently  completed  four fiscal  quarters,  all  determined in accordance  with
generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied.

     "Domestic  Guarantee  Amount"  means the  aggregate  amount of  outstanding
obligations  of Foreign  Loan  Parties  that are  guaranteed  by  Domestic  Loan
Parties.

     "Domestic  Loan  Party"  means  the  Borrower  and each  Subsidiary  of the
Borrower  that is  organized  under the laws of any State of the United  States.

     "EBITDA" means,  for any period,  the sum of (i) Adjusted Net Income,  (ii)
Interest Expense,  (iii)  depreciation and amortization and (iv) Federal,  state
and local income  taxes,  in each case,  computed in accordance  with  generally
accepted accounting principles.

     "Eligible  Assignee" - (a) any of the following  that have been approved by
the Required Banks: (i) a commercial bank organized under the laws of the United
States,  or any state  thereof;  (ii) a savings and loan  association or savings
bank organized under the laws of the United States, or any state thereof;  (iii)
a commercial bank organized under the laws of any other country that is a member
<PAGE>
of the OECD or has concluded special lending arrangements with the International
Monetary Fund associated with its General Arrangements to Borrow, or a political
subdivision of any such country, so long as such bank is acting through a branch
or agency  located in the country in which it is  organized  or another  country
that is  described  in this clause  (iii);  (iv) the central bank of any country
that is a member of the OECD which bank has assumed  the assets and  liabilities
of a Bank;  and (v) a finance  company,  insurance  company  or other  financial
institution or fund (whether a corporation,  partnership, trust or other entity)
that is engaged in making, purchasing or otherwise investing in commercial loans
in the ordinary  course of its  business;  (b) any other Person  approved by the
Administrative Agent and the Required Banks; and (c) a Bank or an Affiliate of a
Bank.

     "Employee  Benefit Plan" means any employee benefit plan within the meaning
of Section 3(3) of ERISA which (a) is  maintained  for  employees of Borrower or
any of its ERISA  Affiliates or (b) has at any time within the preceding six (6)
years been  maintained  for  employees  of the  Borrower  or any  current  ERISA
Affiliate while an ERISA Affiliate.

     "Employee  Welfare Benefit Plan" means any employee benefit plan within the
meaning of Section 3(1) of ERISA.

     "Environmental  Laws and Regulations" means all  environmental,  health and
safety laws, regulations, resolutions, and ordinances applicable to the Borrower
or any Subsidiary,  or any of their respective assets or properties,  including,
without limitation: (i) all regulations,  resolutions,  ordinances, decrees, and
other  similar   documents  and  instruments  of  all  courts  and  governmental
authorities,  bureaus and  agencies,  domestic  and foreign,  whether  issued by
environmental  regulatory agencies or otherwise, and (ii) all laws, regulations,
resolutions, ordinances and decrees relating to Environmental Matters.

     "Environmental  Liability" means any liability under any applicable law for
any release of a hazardous substance caused by the seeping,  spilling,  leaking,
pumping,  pouring,  emitting,  emptying,   discharging,   injecting,   escaping,
leaching, dumping or disposing of hazardous wastes or other chemical substances,
pollutants or contaminants into the environment, and any liability for the costs
of any clean-up or other remedial action including,  without  limitation,  costs
arising  out  of  security  fencing,   alternative  water  supplies,   temporary
evacuation  and  housing  and  other  emergency  assistance  undertaken  by  any
environmental  regulatory  body  having  jurisdiction  over the  Borrower or any
Subsidiary  to  prevent or  minimize  any  actual or  threatened  release by the
Borrower  or  any  Subsidiary  of  any  hazardous   wastes  or  other  hazardous
substances, pollutants and contaminants into the environment that would endanger
the public health or the environment.
<PAGE>
     "Environmental  Matter(s)"  means a release of any toxic or hazardous waste
or other hazardous  substance,  pollutant or contaminant into the environment or
the generation,  treatment, storage or disposal of any toxic or hazardous wastes
or other hazardous substances.

     "Environmental  Proceeding"  means  any  judgment,  action,  proceeding  or
investigation  pending  before any court or  governmental  authority,  bureau or
agency, including,  without limitation,  any environmental regulatory body, with
respect  to, or to the best of  Borrower's  knowledge  threatened  against,  the
Borrower or any  Subsidiary or relating to the assets or  liabilities  of any of
them, including,  without limitation, in respect of any "facility" owned, leased
or  operated  by any of them  under the  Comprehensive  Environmental  Response,
Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, or under any state, local or
municipal  statute,  ordinance or regulation in respect  thereof,  in connection
with any release of any toxic or hazardous  waste or other  chemical  substance,
pollutant or contaminant into the environment,  or with the generation,  storage
or  disposal  of any toxic or  hazardous  wastes or other  chemical  substances.

     "ERISA" means the Employee  Retirement  Income  Security Act of 1974, as it
may be amended from time to time, and the  regulations  promulgated  thereunder.

     "ERISA Affiliate" means as applied to the Borrower, any corporation, person
or trade or business which is a member of the Borrower's Controlled Group.

     "ERISA  MAE"  means any  matter  which  would  result in  liability  to the
Borrower or any ERISA  Affiliate in an amount which would  materially  adversely
affect the business or financial  condition of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries
on a consolidated basis.

     "Eurodollar  Business Day" means a Business Day on which dealings in Dollar
deposits are carried out in the Eurodollar interbank market.

     "Eurodollar  Loans" means Loans the interest on which is  determined on the
basis of rates referred to in subparagraph  (a) of the definition of "Fixed Base
Rate" in this Article 1.

     "Event of Default" is defined in Article 8 hereof.

     "Facility Fee" is defined in subsection 2.7(b) hereof.

     "Federal Funds Rate" means,  for any day, the weighted average of the rates
on overnight federal funds transactions with member banks of the Federal Reserve
System  arranged by federal  funds  brokers as published by the Federal  Reserve
Bank of New York for such day,  or if such day is not a  Business  Day,  for the
next  preceding  Business Day (or, if such rate is not so published for any such
day, the average rate charged to each Bank on such day on such  transactions  as
reasonably determined by the Banks).
<PAGE>
     "Fee(s)" is defined in subsection 2.7(d) hereof.

     "Financial  Statements"  means,  with  respect  to the  Borrower:  (i)  its
consolidated  audited Balance Sheet as at September 30, 1998,  together with the
related  audited  Income  Statement,   Statement  of  Shareholders'  Equity  and
Statement  of Cash Flows for the fiscal year then ended,  (ii) its  consolidated
unaudited Balance Sheet as at June 30, 1999, together with the related unaudited
Income  Statement and Statement of Cash Flows for the 9-month period then ended,
and (iii) each of the financial  statements  delivered to the Banks  pursuant to
subsections 5.1 and 5.2 hereof.

     "Finotech"  means Finotech  Verbundstoffe  GmbH, a 60% owned  subsidiary of
Clopay Plastic Products.

     "Firstar" means Firstar Bank, National Association.

     "Fixed  Base  Rate"  means,  with  respect to any  Eurodollar  Loan for any
Interest  Period  therefor,  a rate of interest per annum  (rounded  upward,  if
necessary,   to  the  nearest  1/32  of  one  percent),  as  determined  by  the
Administrative  Agent,  on the basis of the offered  rates for  deposits in U.S.
dollars,  for a period of time  comparable to such Eurodollar Loan which appears
on the  Telerate  page 3750 as of 11:00 a.m.  London time on the day that is two
Eurodollar  Business  Days  preceding  the  first  day of such  Eurodollar  Loan
Interest Period; provided,  however, if the rate described above does not appear
on the Telerate System on any applicable interest  determination date, the Fixed
Base Rate shall be  determined  by the  Administrative  Agent  based on the rate
(rounded  upwards,  if  necessary,  to the nearest  1/32 of 1%) for  deposits in
dollars for a period  substantially  equal to the Interest Period on the Reuters
Page "LIBO" (or such other page as may replace the LIBO Page on that service for
the purpose of displaying such rates), as of 11:00 a.m.(London Time), on the day
that is two (2) Eurodollar Business Days prior to the beginning of such Interest
Period. If two or more of such rates appear on the Reuters Screen LIBO Page, the
rate  shall  be  the  arithmetic  mean  of  such  rates  as  determined  by  the
Administrative  Agent. If both the Telerate and Reuters system are  unavailable,
then the rate for that date will be  determined by the  Administrative  Agent on
the basis of the offered rates for deposits in U.S. dollars for a period of time
comparable to such  Eurodollar Loan which are offered by four major banks in the
London interbank market at approximately 11:00 a.m. London time, on the day that
is two (2) Eurodollar  Business Days preceding the first day of such  Eurodollar
Loan as selected by the  Administrative  Agent.  The principal  London office of
each of the four major  London banks will be requested to provide a quotation of
its U.S.  dollar  deposit  offered  rate.  If at least two such  quotations  are
provided,  the rate for the date will be the arithmetic  mean of the quotations.
If fewer than two quotations  are provided as requested,  the rate for that date
will be determined on the basis of the rates quoted for loans in U.S. dollars to
<PAGE>
leading  European banks for a period of time  comparable to such Eurodollar Loan
offered by major  banks in New York City at  approximately  11:00 a.m.  New York
City time, on the day that is two  Eurodollar  Business Days preceding the first
day of such Eurodollar  Loan. In the event that the Bank is unable to obtain any
such  quotation  as provided  above,  it will be deemed that the Fixed Base Rate
pursuant to a Eurodollar Loan cannot be determined.

     "Fixed  Rate"  means,  for any  Eurodollar  Loan  for any  Interest  Period
therefor,  the rate per annum  (rounded  upwards,  if necessary,  to the nearest
1/100 of 1%) determined by the Administrative  Agent equal to (x) the Fixed Base
Rate for such Loan for such Interest Period;  divided by (y) 1 minus the Reserve
Requirement for such Loan for such Interest  Period.  The  Administrative  Agent
shall use its best efforts to advise the Borrower  upon its request of the Fixed
Rate for each Interest  Period as soon as  practicable  after each change in the
Fixed Rate; provided,  however,  that the failure of the Administrative Agent to
so advise the Borrower on any one or more occasions  shall not affect the rights
of any Agent or any Bank or the obligations of the Borrower hereunder.

     "Fleet"  means  Fleet  Bank,  National  Association,   a  national  banking
association, in its capacity as a Bank hereunder.

     "Foreign  Loan  Party"  means  each  Subsidiary  of the  Borrower  that  is
organized  under the laws of a  jurisdiction  other than any State of the United
States.

     "Funded Debt to Cash Flow Ratio"  means,  for any period,  the ratio of (a)
Long-term  Indebtedness  for borrowed money of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries
plus, without  duplication,  any Indebtedness for money borrowed of the Borrower
and its  Subsidiaries  which  will be due and  payable  during  the  immediately
succeeding  twelve month period,  in each case outstanding as of the last day of
such period,  to (b) Adjusted Net Income of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries on
a consolidated  basis plus, without  duplication,  depreciation and amortization
expense, each for the most recently completed four fiscal quarters.

     "Indebtedness"  means, with respect to any Person and without  duplication,
all: (i) liabilities or obligations,  direct and contingent, which in accordance
with generally accepted  accounting  principles would be included in determining
total  liabilities  as shown on the  liability  side of a balance  sheet of such
Person  at the date as of which  Indebtedness  is to be  determined,  including,
without  limitation,   contingent  liabilities  that  in  accordance  with  such
principles, would be set forth in a specific Dollar amount on the liability side
of such balance sheet, and Capitalized  Lease  Obligations of such Person;  (ii)
liabilities  or  obligations  of others for which  such  Person is  directly  or
indirectly  liable, by way of guaranty (whether by direct guaranty,  suretyship,
discount,  endorsement,  take-or-pay agreement, agreement to purchase or advance
or keep in funds  or  other  agreement  having  the  effect  of a  guaranty)  or
otherwise;  (iii)  liabilities or obligations  secured by Liens on any assets of
such Person,  whether or not such  liabilities  or  obligations  shall have been
assumed by it; and (iv)  liabilities or  obligations  of such Person,  direct or
contingent, with respect to letters of credit (other than documentary letters of
credit used in connection  with the purchase of goods) issued for the account of
such Person and bankers acceptances created for such Person.
<PAGE>

     "Interest  Expense"  means,  for the  applicable  period  of  determination
thereof,  the interest expense during such period  determined in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;  provided,  that,  notwithstanding any
such determination under generally accepted accounting principles, in each event
"Interest Expense" shall be net of all interest income for the applicable period
of determination.

     "Interest  Period" means,  with respect to any Eurodollar Loan, each period
commencing  on the date such Loan is made or  converted  from a Loan or Loans of
another type, or the last day of the next preceding Interest Period with respect
to such Loan,  and ending on the same day in the first,  second,  third or sixth
calendar month thereafter, as the Borrower may select as provided in Section 2.2
hereof,  except  that each  such  Interest  Period  that  commences  on the last
Eurodollar Business Day of a calendar month (or on any day for which there is no
numerically  corresponding  day in the  appropriate  subsequent  calendar month)
shall end on the last  Eurodollar  Business  Day of the  appropriate  subsequent
calendar  month.  Notwithstanding  the foregoing:  (i) each Interest Period that
would  otherwise  end on a day that is not a Business  Day shall end on the next
succeeding  Business Day (or, in the case of an Interest  Period for  Eurodollar
Loans,  if such  next  succeeding  Eurodollar  Business  Day  falls  in the next
succeeding calendar month, on the next preceding Eurodollar Business Day) ; (ii)
no more than five (5) Interest  Periods for Eurodollar  Loans shall be in effect
at the same  time  (not  including  Interest  Periods  in  respect  of  Rollover
Eurodollar Loans); (iii) any Interest Period for any type of Loan that commences
before the  Commitment  Termination  Date shall end no later than the Commitment
Termination  Date;  and (iv)  notwithstanding  clause (iii)  above,  no Interest
Period  shall have a duration of less than one month (in the case of  Eurodollar
Loans).  In the event  that the  Borrower  fails to select the  duration  of any
Interest Period for any Loan within the time period and otherwise as provided in
Section 2.2 hereof, such Loans will be automatically converted into a Prime Rate
Loan  on  the  last  day  of  the  preceding  Interest  Period  for  such  Loan.
Notwithstanding  anything to the contrary  contained  herein,  during the period
commencing  on the date hereof and ending on January 19,  2000,  with respect to
all Loans,  including  Rollover  Eurodollar Loans, the Borrower may elect one or
more Interest  Periods  (including  Interest  Periods of durations other than as
otherwise  provided herein),  so long as each such Interest Period ends no later
than January 19, 2000.  Interest Periods commencing on or after January 19, 2000
may be of any duration otherwise permitted hereunder.

     "Investment" means, by any Person:

     (a) the amount paid or  committed  to be paid,  or the value of property or
services  contributed or committed to be  contributed,  by such Person for or in
connection  with the  acquisition  by such  Person of any stock,  bonds,  notes,
debentures,  partnership or other ownership interests or other securities of any
other Person; and
<PAGE>

     (b) the amount of any advance,  loan or extension of credit by such Person,
to any other Person, or guaranty or other similar obligation of such Person with
respect  to any  Indebtedness  of such other  Person  (other  than  Indebtedness
constituting  trade payables in the ordinary  course of business),  and (without
duplication)  any amount committed to be advanced,  loaned,  or extended by such
Person to any other  Person,  or any amount the payment of which is committed to
be assured by a guaranty  or similar  obligation  by such Person for the benefit
of, such other Person.

     "IRS" means the Internal Revenue Service.

     "Latest Balance Sheet" is defined in subsection 3.9(a) hereof.

     "Leases"  means  leases and  subleases  (other  than  Capitalized  Leases),
licenses for the use of real property,  easements,  grants, and other attachment
rights and similar  instruments  under which the  Borrower  has the right to use
real or personal property or rights of way.

     "Lien"  means any  mortgage,  deed of  trust,  pledge,  security  interest,
encumbrance,  lien or charge of any kind (including any agreement to give any of
the foregoing),  any conditional  sale or other title retention  agreement,  any
lease in the nature of any of the  foregoing,  and the filing of or agreement to
give  any  financing   statement  under  the  Uniform  Commercial  Code  of  any
jurisdiction.

     "Lightron" means Lightron Corporation, a Delaware corporation.

     "Limited Contingent  Obligation" as applied to any Person, means any direct
or  indirect  liability,  contingent  or  otherwise,  of  that  Person,  without
duplication:  (a) with  respect to any  indebtedness,  lease,  dividend or other
obligation  of  another  Person if the  primary  purpose or intent of the Person
incurring such liability, or the primary effect thereof, is to provide assurance
to the obligee of such liability that such liability will be paid or discharged,
or that any  agreements  relating  thereto  will be complied  with,  or that the
holders of such  liability  will be protected (in whole or in part) against loss
with respect  thereto or (b) with respect to any letter of credit issued for the
account  of that  Person or as to which  that  Person is  otherwise  liable  for
reimbursement of drawings.  Limited Contingent Obligations shall include (i) the
direct or indirect  guaranty,  endorsement (other than for collection or deposit
in the ordinary  course of business),  co-making,  discounting  with recourse or
sale  with  recourse  by such  Person of the  obligation  of  another,  (ii) the
obligation to make  take-or-pay  or similar  payments if required  regardless of
nonperformance  by any other  party or  parties to an  agreement,  and (iii) any
liability of such Person for the obligations of another through any agreement to
purchase,  repurchase  or  otherwise  acquire  such  obligation  or any property
constituting security therefor, to provide funds for the payment or discharge of
such obligation or to maintain the solvency,  financial condition or any balance
sheet item or level of income of another.  The amount of any Limited  Contingent
Obligation  shall be equal to the  amount of the  obligation  so  guaranteed  or
otherwise supported or, if not a fixed and determined amount, the maximum amount
so guaranteed.
<PAGE>
     "Loan(s)" is defined in Section 2.1 hereof.  Loans of different  types made
or converted  from Loans of other types on the same day (or of the same type but
having different  Interest Periods) shall be deemed to be separate Loans for all
purposes of this Agreement.

     "Loan Documents" means this Agreement,  the Notes, the Pledge Agreement and
all other documents required to be executed and delivered in connection herewith
or therewith,  including all amendments,  modifications and supplements of or to
all such documents.

     "Loan Party" means the Borrower and any Subsidiary which on the date hereof
or hereafter executes and delivers to any Agent or any Bank any Loan Document.

     "Long-term Indebtedness" means:

     (i) any  Indebtedness  payable more than one year from the date of creation
thereof  (including,  without  limitation and without  duplication,  any portion
thereof  payable on demand or maturing  within one year after such date),  which
under generally accepted accounting  principles is shown on the balance sheet as
a liability (including  Capitalized Lease Obligations but excluding reserves for
deferred income taxes and other reserves to the extent that such reserves do not
constitute an obligation), and

     (ii)  Indebtedness  payable  more than one year  from the date of  creation
thereof  (including,  without  limitation and without  duplication,  any portion
thereof payable on demand or maturing within one year after such date), which is
secured by any Lien on property owned by the Borrower or any Subsidiary, whether
or not the indebtedness  secured thereby shall have been assumed by the Borrower
or such Subsidiary.

Any  obligation  shall be treated as Long-term  Indebtedness,  regardless of its
term if such  obligation  is  renewable  pursuant  to the terms  thereof or of a
revolving credit or similar agreement effective for more than one year after the
date of the creation of such  obligation,  or may be payable out of the proceeds
of a similar obligation  pursuant to the terms of such obligation or of any such
agreement.


     "Material Adverse Effect" means any matter which would materially adversely
affect the  business,  operations,  properties  or  financial  condition  of the
Borrower and its Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

     "Monthly  Dates" means the first day of each calendar  month,  the first of
which shall be the first day of the first calendar  month  following the date of
this Agreement.
<PAGE>
     "Multiemployer  Plan"  means a  "multiemployer  plan" as defined in Section
4001 (a) (3) of ERISA which is a Pension  Plan and to which the  Borrower or any
ERISA Affiliate is making,  or is accruing an obligation to make,  contributions
or has made, or been obligated to make,  contributions  within the preceding six
(6) years while an ERISA Affiliate.

     "New Type Loans" is defined in Section 2.21 hereof.

     "Note(s)" is defined in Section 2.4 hereof.

     "Obligations" means collectively, all of the Indebtedness,  liabilities and
obligations of the Borrower to the Administrative Agent, the Documentation Agent
and/or the Banks,  whether now  existing or  hereafter  arising,  whether or not
currently contemplated, arising under the Loan Documents.

     "Payment  Office" means the office of the  Administrative  Agent located at
300 Broad Hollow Road, Melville, New York 11747.

     "PBGC" means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation.

     "Pension Plan" means at any time an employee  pension  benefit plan that is
covered by Title IV of ERISA or subject to the minimum  funding  standards under
Section 412 of the Code and is either:  (i)  maintained  by the  Borrower or any
ERISA Affiliate for employees of the Borrower,  or by the Borrower for employees
of any ERISA Affiliate,  or (ii) maintained pursuant to a collective  bargaining
agreement  or any other  arrangement  under which more than one  employer  makes
contributions and to which the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate is then making or
accruing an obligation to make  contributions  or has, while an ERISA Affiliate,
within the preceding five plan years made contributions.

     "Permitted  Acquisition"  means  the  acquisition  by the  Borrower  or any
Subsidiary  of any Person or of any  division  or line of business of any Person
(whether a Person,  or division or line of business,  an  "Eligible  Business"),
either by merger,  consolidation,  purchase  of stock,  or  purchase of all or a
substantial  part of the  assets  of such  Eligible  Business  (any such type of
transaction  is  referred  to in  this  Agreement  as an  "acquisition"  and the
principal  agreement relating thereto,  whether a stock purchase  agreement,  an
asset purchase  agreement,  a merger  agreement or otherwise,  is referred to in
this Agreement as the "acquisition agreement");  provided that (i) the aggregate
Permitted  Acquisition Purchase Price of all such Permitted  Acquisitions during
the term of this  Agreement  from and after June 1, 1999 does not exceed (a) Two
Hundred Million Dollars ($200,000,000) in the aggregate, and (b) after excluding
the value of any capital  stock  issued by the Borrower in  connection  with any
Permitted  Acquisition,  One  Hundred  Million  Dollars  ($100,000,000)  in  the
aggregate,  (ii) no Default or Event of Default shall exist  immediately  before
and  after  giving  affect to such  Permitted  Acquisition  or  result  from the
consummation thereof, and (iii) each of the following conditions shall have been
satisfied:
<PAGE>
     (a)  such  transaction  shall  not  be a  "hostile"  acquisition  or  other
"hostile"  transaction (i.e., such transaction shall not be opposed by the Board
of Directors (or similar  governing  body) of the Eligible  Business),  provided
that in the event the  Borrower  proposes  to  initiate  such  transaction  as a
hostile  transaction with the intent to subsequently  obtain the approval of the
Board of  Directors  of the  Eligible  Business,  the  Borrower  may  notify the
Administrative  Agent and each Bank in writing in advance of the  initiation  of
such  proposed  transaction  together  with  any  information   concerning  such
transaction as the Administrative  Agent or any Bank may request,  and, provided
that the Administrative Agent and each Bank shall have approved such transaction
in writing prior to the initiation of such transaction, with the approval of the
each Bank  being  based on any  possible  conflict  of any kind or other  policy
considerations  of such Bank concerning such proposed  acquisition and with such
approval  not to be  unreasonably  withheld,  the Borrower may proceed with such
transaction  so long as the  transaction  ultimately is approved by the Board of
Directors (or similar  governing body) of the Eligible  Business (and a majority
of which were members of such Board of Directors (or similar  governing body) at
the time such transaction was initiated) and is otherwise in accordance with the
terms of this Agreement;

     (b) such acquisition (1) if such acquisition is a stock acquisition,  shall
be of  greater  than 50% of the  issued and  outstanding  capital  stock of such
Eligible Business, whether by purchase or as a result of merger or consolidation
(provided  that the  Borrower  shall be the  surviving  corporation  in any such
merger or  consolidation  in which it is  directly  involved),  and in any event
shall  consist of shares of capital  stock with  sufficient  voting rights which
entitles  the  Borrower to elect a majority of the  directors  of such  Eligible
Business and to control the outcome of any shareholder votes with respect to the
shareholders of such Eligible Business,  and (2) if such acquisition is an asset
acquisition, shall be of all or a substantial part of an Eligible Business; and

     (c)  the  Borrower  or its  Subsidiaries  shall  have  (1)  pledged  to the
Administrative  Agent  for  the  benefit  of the  Banks  all of the  issued  and
outstanding  capital stock acquired by the Borrower or any subsidiary of (A) any
Eligible  Business the capital stock of which is to be acquired pursuant to such
acquisition  in which the Permitted  Acquisition  Purchase Price is greater than
$15,000,000,  and (B) any new Subsidiary created as an acquisition  vehicle with
respect  to  such  acquisition,  (2)  delivered  to  the  Administrative  Agent,
simultaneously  with  consummation  of  such  acquisition,   all  of  the  stock
certificates  representing  such shares,  together with stock powers executed in
blank and proxies  with  respect  thereto and (3) caused to be  delivered to the
Banks from any new Subsidiary customary corporate documents (including certified
certificate of incorporation, by-laws and good standing certificates); provided,
however,  that so long as (i) Clopay remains a wholly-owned direct subsidiary of
the  Borrower  and all of the issued  and  outstanding  capital  stock of Clopay
<PAGE>
remains  subject  to  a  first  priority  security  interest  in  favor  of  the
Administrative  Agent,  Clopay shall not be  obligated  to pledge,  or cause the
pledge of, the capital stock of any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries;  and
(ii)  Telephonics  remains a wholly-owned  subsidiary of the Borrower and all of
the issued and  outstanding  capital stock of Telephonics  remains  subject to a
first  priority  security  interest  in  favor  of  the  Administrative   Agent,
Telephonics  shall not be  obligated  to  pledge,  or cause the  pledge  of, the
capital stock of any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries.

     "Permitted Acquisition Purchase Price" means, with respect to any Permitted
Acquisition,  collectively,  without  duplication,  (i)  all  Cash  paid  by the
Borrower  or  any  of  its   Subsidiaries  in  connection  with  such  Permitted
Acquisition,  including in respect of transaction costs, fees and other expenses
incurred by the  Borrower or any of its  Subsidiaries  in  connection  with such
Permitted  Acquisition,  (ii) all  Indebtedness  created,  and all  Indebtedness
assumed,  by the Borrower or any of its  subsidiaries  in  connection  with such
Permitted Acquisition,  including, without limitation, the maximum amount of any
purchase price to be paid pursuant to any "earn out" provision  contained in the
agreements related to any Permitted Acquisition,  (iii) the value of all capital
stock issued by the Borrower or any of its  Subsidiaries in connection with such
Permitted Acquisition and (iv) any deferred portion of the purchase price or any
other costs paid by the Borrower or any of its  Subsidiaries  in connection with
such Permitted Acquisition.

     "Permitted Liens" means, as to any Person:  (i) pledges or deposits by such
Person under workers'  compensation  laws,  unemployment  insurance laws, social
security laws, or similar legislation, or good faith deposits in connection with
bids,  tenders,  contracts  (other than for the payment of  Indebtedness of such
Person), or leases to which such Person is a party, or deposits to secure public
or  statutory  obligations  of such Person or deposits of Cash or United  States
Government Bonds to secure surety, appeal, performance or other similar bonds to
which such Person is a party,  or deposits as security  for  contested  taxes or
import  duties or for the payment of rent;  (ii) Liens  imposed by law,  such as
carriers', warehousemen's,  materialmen's and mechanics' liens, or Liens arising
out of judgments or awards against such Person with respect to which such Person
at the time shall  currently be prosecuting an appeal or proceedings for review;
(iii) Liens for taxes not yet subject to penalties for non-payment and Liens for
taxes the  payment of which is being  contested  as  permitted  by  Section  6.6
hereof;  and (iv) minor  survey  exceptions,  minor  encumbrances,  easements or
reservations  of, or rights of, others for rights of way,  highways and railroad
crossings,  sewers,  electric  lines,  telegraph and  telephone  lines and other
similar  purposes,  or  zoning  or  other  restrictions  as to the  use of  real
properties, or Liens incidental to the conduct of the business of such Person or
to the ownership of such Person's  property that were not incurred in connection
with  Indebtedness  of  such  Person,  all of  which  Liens  referred  to in the
preceding clause (iv) do not in the aggregate  materially detract from the value
of the  properties  to which they relate or  materially  impair their use in the
operation  of the business  taken as a whole of such  Person,  and as to all the
foregoing only to the extent  arising and  continuing in the ordinary  course of
business.
<PAGE>
     "Person"  means  an  individual,  a  corporation,  a  partnership,  a joint
venture, a trust or unincorporated  organization, a joint stock company or other
similar  organization,  a government or any  political  subdivision  thereof,  a
court, or any other legal entity, whether acting in an individual,  fiduciary or
other  capacity.

     "Pledge Agreement" means that certain Pledge Agreement substantially in the
form of Exhibit A-2 hereto, dated as of the date hereof between the Borrower and
the  Administrative  Agent,  for the ratable benefit of the Banks, and any other
pledge  agreement  executed and delivered by the Borrower or any Subsidiary from
time to time in connection herewith, including all amendments, modifications and
supplements of or to all such agreements.

     "Post-Default Rate" means (i) in respect to principal of or interest on any
Loans  not paid  when due  (whether  at  stated  maturity,  by  acceleration  or
otherwise),  a rate per annum during the period commencing on the due date until
such unpaid principal is paid in full equal to: (x) if such Loans are Prime Rate
Loans,  2%  above  the  Prime  Rate as in  effect  from  time to time  plus  the
Applicable  Margin for Prime Rate Loans (but in no event less than the  interest
rate in effect on the due date),  or (y) if such Loans are Eurodollar  Loans, 2%
above the rate of interest in effect  thereon at the time of such default  until
the end of the then current Interest Period therefor and,  thereafter,  2% above
the Prime  Rate as in effect  from time to time plus the  Applicable  Margin for
Prime Rate Loans (but in no event less than the  interest  rate in effect on the
due  date);  and  (ii) in  respect  of other  amounts  payable  by the  Borrower
hereunder  (other than interest) not paid when due (whether at stated  maturity,
by acceleration or otherwise),  a rate per annum during the period commencing on
the due date  until such  other  amounts  are paid in full equal to 2% above the
Prime Rate as in effect from time to time plus the  Applicable  Margin for Prime
Rate  Loans (but in no event  less than the  interest  rate in effect on the due
date).

     "Prime Rate" means the interest rate established by Fleet from time to time
as its prime rate at its Principal Office.  Notwithstanding  the foregoing,  the
Borrower acknowledges that Fleet may regularly make domestic commercial loans at
rates of interest  less than the rate of interest  referred to in the  preceding
sentence  and that the Prime Rate is a reference  rate and does not  necessarily
represent the lowest or best rate being charged to any borrower.  Each change in
any interest rate provided for herein based upon the Prime Rate resulting from a
change in the Prime  Rate shall  take  effect at the time of such  change in the
Prime Rate.

     "Prime Rate Loans" means Loans that bear  interest at a rate based upon the
Prime Rate.
<PAGE>
     "Principal Office" means, as to the  Administrative  Agent or any Bank, the
principal office designated from time to time by such Person.

     "Principal Subsidiary" means Clopay or Telephonics.

     "Prior Agreement" means that that certain Loan Agreement dated June 8, 1995
by and among the Borrower, NatWest Bank N.A. (now known as Fleet),  individually
and as Collateral Agent, and Chemical Bank (now known as Chase), as the same has
been amended and modified.

     "Projections"  means the  projections  delivered  to the Banks  pursuant to
Section  5.3  hereof  (in the  format  provided  in  connection  with the  Prior
Agreement).

     "Purchase  Money   Indebtedness"  means  Indebtedness  (other  than  Loans)
incurred  in  connection  with  the  Borrower's  acquisition  of  fixed  assets;
provided, that:

     (i) The transaction in which any Purchase Money Indebtedness is proposed to
be created is not then prohibited by this Agreement and

     (ii) The  Indebtedness  incurred or to be incurred does not exceed the cost
of the property or asset acquired.

     "Purchase Money Security Interest" is defined in subsection 7.2(c) hereof.

     "Quarterly  Dates"  means the first day of each  January,  April,  July and
October of each year,  the first of which  shall be the first such day after the
date of this  Agreement,  provided  that,  if any such date is not a  Eurodollar
Business  Day,  the  relevant  Quarterly  Date  shall  be  the  next  succeeding
Eurodollar  Business  Day (or, if the next  succeeding  Eurodollar  Business Day
falls  in the  next  succeeding  calendar  month,  then  on the  next  preceding
Eurodollar Business Day).

     "Quick Ratio" means as at any date, the ratio of Current Assets  (excluding
inventories) to Current Liabilities.

     "Real Property" is defined in Section 7.13 hereof.

     "Regulation D" means  Regulation D of the Board of Governors of the Federal
Reserve System, as the same may be amended or supplemented from time to time.

     "Regulatory  Change"  means,  as to any Bank,  any change after the date of
this  Agreement in United States  federal,  state or foreign laws or regulations
(including  Regulation  D  and  the  laws  or  regulations  that  designate  any
assessment rate relating to certificates of deposit or otherwise  (including the
"Assessment  Rate" if  applicable  to any Loan) or the  adoption or making after
such date of any interpretations,  directives or requests applying to a class of
<PAGE>
banks,  including  such Bank,  of or under any United States  federal,  state or
foreign  laws or  regulations  (whether  or not  having the force of law) by any
court or governmental or monetary  authority charged with the  interpretation or
administration thereof.

     "Related  Parties"  means,  with  respect  to  any  Person,  such  Person's
Affiliates  and  the  respective  directors,  officers,  employees,  agents  and
advisors of such Person and such Person's Affiliates.

     "Required  Banks"  means,  at any  time  while  no  Loans  are  outstanding
hereunder,  Banks having at least sixty six and two-thirds  percent (66 2/3%) of
the  aggregate  amount  of the  Commitments  and,  at any time  while  Loans are
outstanding  hereunder,  Banks holding at least sixty six and two-thirds percent
(66 2/3%) of the outstanding aggregate principal amount of the Loans hereunder.

     "Reserve  Requirement"  means,  for any Eurodollar  Loans for any quarterly
period (or, as the case may be, shorter  period) as to which interest is payable
hereunder,  the average maximum rate at which reserves  (including any marginal,
supplemental  or emergency  reserves) are required to be maintained  during such
period under  Regulation D by member banks of the Federal  Reserve System in New
York City with deposits  exceeding  one billion  Dollars  against  "Eurocurrency
liabilities" (as such term is used in Regulation D). Without limiting the effect
of the  foregoing,  the Reserve  Requirement  shall  reflect any other  reserves
required  to be  maintained  by such  member  banks by reason of any  Regulatory
Change  against:  (i) any  category of  liabilities  that  includes  deposits by
references to which the Fixed Rate for  Eurodollar  Loans is to be determined as
provided in the  definition  of "Fixed Base Rate" in this Article 1, or (ii) any
category of extensions of credit or other assets that include Eurodollar Loans.

     "Revolving  Credit Period" means the period  commencing on the date of this
Agreement and ending on the Commitment Termination Date.

     "Revolving  Exposure"  means,  with respect to any Bank as of any date, the
sum as of such date of the outstanding principal balance of such Bank's Loans.

     "Revolving Percentage" means, as of any date and with respect to each Bank,
the percentage  equal to a fraction (i) the numerator of which is the Commitment
of such Bank on such date (or, if there are no  Commitments on such date, on the
last  date upon  which one or more  Commitments  were in  effect),  and (ii) the
denominator  of which is sum of the  Commitments  of all the  Banks on such date
(or, if there are no  Commitments  on such date, on the last date upon which one
or more Commitments were in effect).
<PAGE>
     "Rollover  Eurodollar  Loans" means  Eurodollar  Loans made pursuant to the
     ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prior Agreement that have an Interest Period that terminates after the effective
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
date of this Agreement, all as set forth in Schedule I hereto.
- --------------------------------------------------------------

     "Security Documents" is defined in subsection 2.23(b) hereof.

     "Standard-Keil"   means   Standard-Keil   Industries,   Inc.,   a  Delaware
corporation.

     "Subordinated Debt" means unsecured Indebtedness for money borrowed that is
subordinated upon terms and in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the
Administrative  Agent and the Banks, as evidenced by the Administrative  Agent's
and  Banks'  written  consent  thereto  given  prior  to the  creation  of  such
Indebtedness.

     "Subsidiary"   means,   with  respect  to  any  Person,   any  corporation,
partnership  or joint  venture  whether now existing or  hereafter  organized or
acquired:  (i)  in the  case  of a  corporation,  of  which  a  majority  of the
securities  having  ordinary  voting power for the election of directors  (other
than  securities  having  such  power  only  by  reason  of the  happening  of a
contingency)  are  at  the  time  owned  by  such  Person  and/or  one  or  more
Subsidiaries  of such  Person,  or (ii) in the  case of a  partnership  or joint
venture in which such Person is a general  partner or joint venturer or of which
a majority of the partnership or other ownership interests are at the time owned
by such  Person  and/or  one or more of its  Subsidiaries.  Unless  the  context
otherwise   requires,   references  in  this   Agreement  to   "Subsidiary"   or
"Subsidiaries"  shall be deemed to be references to a Subsidiary or Subsidiaries
of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries.

     "Tangible Net Worth" means the sum of capital  surplus,  earned surplus and
capital  stock,  minus  deferred  charges   (including,   but  not  limited  to,
unamortized  debt discount and expense,  organization  expenses and experimental
and development expenses, but excluding prepaid expenses and deferred income tax
assets),  intangibles and treasury  stock,  all as determined in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied.

     "Telephonics" means Telephonics Corporation, a Delaware corporation.

     "Termination Date" means October 1, 2006.

     "Termination  Event" means (a) a  "Reportable  Event"  described in Section
4043 of ERISA and the regulations  issued thereunder for which the 30-day notice
requirement  is not  waived by the  regulations;  or (b) the  withdrawal  of the
Borrower or any ERISA  Affiliate from a Pension Plan during a plan year in which
it was a  "substantial  employer" as defined in Section  4001(a) (2) of ERISA or
was deemed such under  Section  4068(f) of ERISA;  or (c) the  termination  of a
Pension Plan  subject to Title IV of ERISA,  the filing of a notice of intent to
terminate a Pension  Plan  subject to Title IV of ERISA,  or the  treatment of a
Pension Plan amendment as a termination  under Section 4041 of ERISA; or (d) the
institution  of  proceedings to terminate a Pension Plan by the PBGC; or (e) any
other event or condition which would  constitute  grounds under Section 4042 (a)
of ERISA for the  termination of, or the appointment of a trustee to administer,
any Pension Plan subject to such Section 4042(a); or (f) the partial or complete
withdrawal of the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate from a Multiemployer  Plan; or
(g) the  imposition  of a Lien pursuant to Section 412 of the IRC or Section 302
of ERISA; or (h) any event or condition which results in the  reorganization  or
insolvency of a Multiemployer  Plan under Section 4241 or Section 4245 of ERISA,
respectively;  or (i) any event or condition which results in the termination of
a Multiemployer Plan under Section 4041A of ERISA or the institution by the PBGC
of proceedings to terminate a Multiemployer Plan under Section 4042 of ERISA.
<PAGE>
     "Unfunded Capital  Expenditures" shall mean Capital Expenditures during the
applicable   period  of   determination   minus   increases  in  Purchase  Money
Indebtedness and offsetting cash sales of capital  equipment,  all determined in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent
basis.

     "Unsubordinated  Liabilities"  means,  with  respect  to  any  Person,  all
Indebtedness  as defined in clause (i) of the definition of  "Indebtedness"  but
excluding any Subordinated Debt.

     "Unused  Commitment"  means, as at any date, for each Bank, the difference,
if any,  between:  (i) the amount of such Bank's Commitment as in effect on such
date, and (ii) the then aggregate outstanding principal amount of all Loans made
by such Bank.

     "Western  Synthetic"  means Western  Synthetic Felt Company,  a division of
Lightron.

     "Year 2000 Issue" means failure of computer software, hardware and firmware
systems and equipment  containing  embedded  computer chips to properly receive,
transmit, process, manipulate,  store, retrieve,  retransmit or in any other way
utilize  data and  information  due to the  occurrence  of the year  2000 or the
inclusion of dates on or after January 1, 2000.

Any accounting  terms used in this Agreement that are not  specifically  defined
herein  shall have the meanings  customarily  given to them in  accordance  with
generally  accepted  accounting  principles  as in  effect  on the  date of this
Agreement,  except  that  references  in Article 5 to such  principles  shall be
deemed to refer to such  principles  as in  effect on the date of the  financial
statements delivered pursuant thereto.
<PAGE>
     Article 2 Commitments; Loans.
               ------------------

Section 2.1. Loans.
             -----

     Each  Bank  hereby  severally  agrees,  on the  terms  and  subject  to the
conditions of this  Agreement,  to make loans (each a "Loan" and, as the context
may require,  collectively  with all other Loans of such Bank and with the Loans
of all  other  Banks,  the  "Loans")  to the  Borrower  from time to time on any
Business Day during the Revolving  Credit Period to and including the Commitment
Termination  Date,  provided  that after giving  effect  thereto (i) such Bank's
Revolving  Exposure  would not exceed such Bank's  Commitment as then in effect,
and (ii) the  Aggregate  Revolving  Exposure  would  not  exceed  the  Aggregate
Revolving Commitment as then in effect.  Subject to the terms of this Agreement,
during the Revolving Credit Period the Borrower may borrow, repay (provided that
repayment of Eurodollar Loans shall be subject to the provisions of Section 2.22
hereof)  and  reborrow  up to the  amount  of  each  Bank's  Commitment  and the
Aggregate  Revolving  Commitment  (after  giving  effect  to the  mandatory  and
voluntary reductions required and permitted herein) by means of Prime Rate Loans
or Eurodollar Loans, and during such period and thereafter until the date of the
payment in full of all of the Loans,  the Borrower may convert Loans of one type
into Loans of another type (as provided in section 2.17 hereof).

     Section 2.2. Notices Relating to Loans.
                  -------------------------

     The Borrower  shall give the  Administrative  Agent written  notice of each
termination  or reduction of the  Commitments,  each  borrowing,  conversion and
prepayment of each Loan and of the duration of each Interest  Period  applicable
to each Eurodollar Loan (in each case, a "Borrowing Notice").  Each such written
notice  shall be  irrevocable  and shall be  effective  only if  received by the
Administrative  Agent not later than 11 a.m.,  New York City  time,  on the date
that is:

     (a) in the case of each notice of  termination or reduction and each notice
of borrowing or prepayment of, or conversion into, Prime Rate Loans, the same as
the  date  of the  related  termination,  reduction,  borrowing,  prepayment  or
conversion; and

     (b) in the case of each notice of borrowing or prepayment of, or conversion
into,  Eurodollar  Loans,  or the duration of an Interest  Period for Eurodollar
Loans,  three (3)  Eurodollar  Business  Days  prior to the date of the  related
borrowing, prepayment, or conversion or the first day of such Interest Period.

     Each such  notice of  termination  or  reduction  shall  specify the amount
thereof.  Each such notice of borrowing,  conversion or prepayment shall specify
the amount  (subject to Section  2.1  hereof) and type of Loans to be  borrowed,
converted or prepaid  (and,  in the case of a  conversion,  the type of Loans to
result from such  conversion),  the date of borrowing,  conversion or prepayment
(which shall be: (x) a Business Day in the case of each  borrowing or prepayment
of  Prime  Rate  Loans  and (y) a  Eurodollar  Business  Day in the case of each
borrowing or  prepayment of  Eurodollar  Loans and each  conversion of or into a
Eurodollar  Loan).  Each such notice of the duration of an Interest Period shall
specify the Loans to which such Interest Period is to relate.
<PAGE>
     Section 2.3. Disbursement of Loan Proceeds.
                  -----------------------------

     (a) The  Borrower  shall  give  the  Administrative  Agent  notice  of each
borrowing  hereunder  as provided in Section  2.2 hereof.  Upon  receipt of each
Borrowing  Notice,  the  Administrative  Agent shall  promptly  notify each Bank
thereof.  Subject  to its  receipt of the notice  referred  to in the  preceding
sentence,  each Bank will make the  amount of its  Revolving  Percentage  of the
requested  Loans  available to the  Administrative  Agent for the account of the
Borrower  at the  Payment  Office  not  later  than 2:00  p.m.  on the  relevant
Borrowing  Date  specified for each borrowing  hereunder,  in funds  immediately
available  to the  Administrative  Agent at such  office.  The  amounts  so made
available to the Administrative  Agent on such Borrowing Date will then, subject
to the  satisfaction  of the terms and  conditions  of this  Agreement,  be made
available  on such  date to the  Borrower  by the  Administrative  Agent  at the
Payment  Office by  crediting  the  account of the  Borrower on the books of the
Administrative  Agent at such office with the aggregate of said amounts (in like
funds) received by the Administrative Agent.

     (b) Unless the Administrative  Agent shall have confirmed that prior to its
funding of a Loan it received  notice from a Bank (by  telephone  or  otherwise,
such notice to be promptly  confirmed by facsimile or other  writing)  that such
Bank will not make  available to the  Administrative  Agent such Bank's share of
the requested Loans, the Administrative Agent may assume that such Bank has made
such  share  available  to the  Administrative  Agent on the  Borrowing  Date in
accordance  with this  Section  and,  in  reliance  upon such  assumption,  make
available to the Borrower on such Borrowing Date a corresponding  amount. If and
to the  extent  such Bank  shall not have so made such  share  available  to the
Administrative  Agent, such Bank and the Borrower  severally agree to pay to the
Administrative  Agent  forthwith  on demand  such  corresponding  amount (to the
extent not  previously  paid by the other),  together with interest  thereon for
each day from the date such amount is made available to the Borrower to the date
such amount is paid to the  Administrative  Agent, at a rate per annum equal to,
in the case of the  Borrower,  the interest  rate  otherwise  applicable to such
Loan,  and, in the case of such Bank,  at a rate of interest  per annum equal to
the  greater  of  the  Federal   Funds  Rate  and  a  rate   determined  by  the
Administrative  Agent in  accordance  with banking  industry  rates on interbank
compensation.   If  such  Bank  shall  pay  to  the  Administrative  Agent  such
corresponding  amount,  such amount so paid shall constitute such Bank's Loan as
part of the relevant borrowing for purposes of this Agreement.

     Section 2.4. Notes.
                  -----

     (a) The Loans made by the Banks shall be evidenced  by separate  promissory
notes of the Borrower payable to each Bank (each, a "Note" and collectively, the
"Notes"),  each in substantially the form of Exhibit A-1 hereto. Each Note shall
<PAGE>
be dated the date of this Agreement,  shall be payable to the order of such Bank
in a principal  amount equal to such Bank's  Commitment as originally in effect,
and shall otherwise be duly completed. The Notes shall be payable as provided in
Sections 2.1 and 2.5 hereof.

     (b) Each Bank  shall  enter on a schedule  attached  to its Note a notation
with respect to each Loan made  hereunder of: (i) the date and principal  amount
thereof,  (ii) each payment and prepayment of principal  thereof,  (iii) whether
the interest rate is initially to be determined  in accordance  with  subsection
2.6(a) (i) or 2.6(a) (ii) hereof,  and (iv) the Interest Period,  if applicable.
The  failure  of any  Bank to make a  notation  on the  schedule  to its Note as
aforesaid shall not limit or otherwise  affect the obligation of the Borrower to
repay the Loans in accordance with their respective terms as set forth herein.

     Section 2.5. Repayment of Principal of Loans.
                  -------------------------------

     (a) The Commitments of the Banks to make  additional  Loans shall terminate
on the Commitment  Termination  Date and the Borrower shall pay to each Bank the
principal of the Loans made by such Bank outstanding on the close of business on
the  Commitment   Termination  Date  in  sixteen  (16)   consecutive   quarterly
installments on the Quarterly Dates,  commencing on January 1, 2003 and with the
final  installment  payable on the Termination Date (provided that the last such
payment shall be in an amount  sufficient to repay in full the principal  amount
of such Loans),  with the amount of the installment paid on each payment date to
be equal to six and  one-quarter  percent (6.25%) of the principal of such Loans
outstanding at the close of business on the Commitment Termination Date.

     (b) The  Loans:  (i)  shall be repaid  as and when  necessary  to cause the
aggregate  principal  amount of the Loans  outstanding not to exceed each Bank's
Commitment, as reduced pursuant to Section 2.8 hereof, and (ii) may be repaid at
any time and from time to time, in whole or in part,  without premium or penalty
(except as otherwise provided in Section 2.22 hereof), upon prior written notice
to each Bank as provided in Section 2.2 hereof,  in a minimum amount of $500,000
and in integral  multiples of $100,000 in the case of Prime Rate Loans, and in a
minimum amount of $2,000,000  and in integral  multiples of $100,000 in the case
of Eurodollar Loans,  except as otherwise  provided in Section 2.11 hereof,  and
any amount so repaid may, subject to the terms and conditions hereof,  including
the borrowing  limitation  imposed by the Commitments,  be reborrowed  hereunder
during the Revolving  Credit  Period;  provided,  however,  that: (A) Eurodollar
Loans may be repaid only on the last day of an  Interest  Period for such Loans,
and (B) all  repayments  of Loans or any portion  thereof shall be made together
with payment of all interest  accrued on the amount  repaid  through the date of
such repayment.
<PAGE>
     (c)  Except  as set  forth in  Sections  2.18,  2.19 and 2.21  hereof,  all
payments and repayments made pursuant to the terms hereof shall be applied first
to Prime Rate Loans, and shall be applied to Eurodollar Loans only to the extent
any such payment exceeds the principal amount of Prime Rate Loans outstanding at
the time of such payment.

     (d) The Borrower may request a Eurodollar  Loan only if compliance with the
payment  schedule  set forth in  subsection  2.5(a)  hereof  (with the  payments
provided for therein being applied in accordance with subsection  2.5(c) hereof)
would not result in any portion of the principal  amount of such Eurodollar Loan
being paid prior to the last day of the Interest Period applicable thereto.

     Section 2.6. Interest.
                  --------

     (a) The Borrower agrees to pay to the Administrative Agent, for the account
of the Banks in accordance with each Bank's  Revolving  Percentage,  interest on
the  unpaid  principal  amount of each  Loan  made by such  Bank for the  period
commencing  on the date of such Loan until  such Loan shall be paid in full,  at
the following rates per annum:

     (i) During such periods that such Loan is a Prime Rate Loan, the Prime Rate
plus the Applicable Margin; and

     (ii) During such  periods  that such Loan is a  Eurodollar  Loan,  for each
Interest Period relating thereto, the Fixed Rate for such Loan for such Interest
Period plus the Applicable Margin.

     (b) Notwithstanding  the foregoing,  the Borrower shall pay interest on any
Loan or any installment thereof, and on any other amount payable by the Borrower
hereunder  (to the extent  permitted by law) that shall not be paid in full when
due (whether at stated  maturity,  by  acceleration or otherwise) for the period
commencing  on the  due  date  thereof  until  the  same  is paid in full at the
applicable Post-Default Rate.

     (c) Except as provided in the next sentence,  accrued interest on each Loan
shall be  payable:  (i) in the case of a Prime Rate Loan,  monthly in arrears on
the Monthly  Dates,  (ii) in the case of a Eurodollar  Loan,  on the last day of
each Interest  Period for such Loan (and, if such Interest  Period exceeds three
months in duration,  on the last day of each three-month period occurring during
such  Interest  Period)  and (iii) in the case of any Loan,  upon the payment or
prepayment  thereof or the  conversion  thereof into a Loan of another type (but
only on the principal so paid,  prepaid or converted).  Interest that is payable
at the  Post-Default  Rate shall be  payable  from time to time on demand of any
Bank.  Promptly after the establishment of any interest rate provided for herein
or any  change  therein,  the  Administrative  Agent will  notify  the  Borrower
thereof,  provided  that the failure to so notify the Borrower  shall not affect
the  obligations  of the  Borrower  hereunder  or under  any of the Notes in any
respect.
<PAGE>
     (d)  Anything  in  this  Agreement  or  any of the  Notes  to the  contrary
notwithstanding,  the  obligation  of the Borrower to make  payments of interest
shall be  subject to the  limitation  that  payments  of  interest  shall not be
required to be made to any Bank to the extent that such Bank's  receipt  thereof
would not be permissible  under the law or laws applicable to such Bank limiting
rates of  interest  that may be charged  or  collected  by such  Bank.  Any such
payments of interest that are not made as a result of the limitation referred to
in the  preceding  sentence  shall be made by the  Borrower  to such Bank on the
earliest  interest  payment date or dates on which the receipt  thereof would be
permissible  under the laws  applicable to such Bank limiting  rates of interest
that may be charged or collected by such Bank. Such deferred  interest shall not
bear interest.

     Section 2.7. Fees.
                  ----

     (a) The Borrower agrees to pay to the Administrative Agent, for the account
of the Banks in accordance with each Bank's Revolving  Percentage,  a commitment
fee (the  "Commitment  Fee") on the daily  average  amount of such Bank's Unused
Commitment,  for the period from the date hereof to and including the earlier of
the date such Bank's  Commitment  is terminated  or the  Commitment  Termination
Date, at the rate of one-quarter  of one percent  (0.25%) per annum on the total
Unused  Commitment  for such Bank.  The accrued  Commitment Fee shall be payable
quarterly in arrears on the Quarterly  Dates,  commencing  with October 1, 1999,
and on the earlier of the date the  Commitments are terminated or the Commitment
Termination  Date,  and, in the event the  Borrower  reduces the  Commitment  as
provided in section 2.8 hereof, on the effective date of such reduction.

     (b) Simultaneously  with the execution and delivery of this Agreement,  the
Borrower shall pay to the Administrative  Agent, for the account of the Banks in
accordance with each Bank's Revolving Percentage,  a non-refundable facility fee
(the "Facility Fee") in an amount equal to Two Hundred Forty Thousand ($240,000)
Dollars in the aggregate.

     (c) Simultaneously  with the execution and delivery of this Agreement,  the
Borrower  shall pay to Fleet and Chase any and all accrued and unpaid  interest,
fees and other  amounts  that are due and owing to them  under or in  connection
with the Prior Agreement,  whether as a "Bank" or as "Collateral Agent" (as such
terms are defined in the Prior Agreement).

     (d) The  Commitment  Fee and the  Facility  Fee are  hereinafter  sometimes
referred to individually as a "Fee" and collectively as the "Fees".

     Section 2.8. Voluntary Changes in Commitment; Prepayments
                  After Commitment Termination Date.
                  ----------------------------------

     Subject to Section 2.15 hereof, the Borrower shall be entitled to terminate
or reduce the Banks' Commitments provided that the Borrower shall give notice of
such termination or reduction to the Administrative Agent as provided in Section
<PAGE>
2.2 hereof and that any  partial  reduction  of the  Commitments  shall be in an
aggregate  amount equal to $500,000 or an integral  multiple  thereof.  Any such
termination or reduction shall be permanent and irrevocable.

     Section 2.9. Use of Proceeds of Loans; Existing Indebtedness.
                  -----------------------------------------------

     (a) The proceeds of the Loans hereunder may be used by the Borrower solely:
(i) to refinance the indebtedness of the Borrower under the Prior Agreement, and
(ii) the Borrower's  working capital  purposes and for other corporate  purposes
permitted hereunder (including,  without limitation,  Permitted Acquisitions and
the repurchase,  redemption, retirement or acquisition of the Borrower's capital
stock not prohibited by Section 7.5 hereof).

     (b) The Notes  executed in connection  with this  Agreement  payable to the
order of each of Chase and Fleet shall amend, restate, replace and supersede the
Notes made by the Borrower to the order of each of such Banks in connection with
the Prior Agreement (the "Prior Notes");  provided,  however, that the execution
and delivery of the Notes hereunder  shall not in any  circumstance be deemed to
have terminated,  extinguished or discharged the Borrower's  indebtedness  under
such Prior Notes with respect to the  Rollover  Eurodollar  Loans,  all of which
indebtedness  shall  continue  under  and be  governed  by  the  Notes  and  the
documents,  instruments and agreements executed pursuant hereto or in connection
herewith.

     (c) With respect to each of Chase and Fleet, Schedule I sets forth (i) each
Rollover  Eurodollar  Loan  outstanding to such Bank as of the date hereof,  and
(ii) the last day of the Interest Period for each such Rollover Eurodollar Loan.

     (d) With respect to all loans  outstanding  under the Prior Agreement other
than  Rollover  Eurodollar  Loans,  the Borrower  shall pay to each of Chase and
Fleet on the date hereof,  the then outstanding  principal  balance of each such
loan,  if any,  together  with all  accrued  and unpaid  interest  with  respect
thereto.  With respect to all Rollover  Eurodollar Loans set forth on Schedule I
hereto,  such loans shall remain  outstanding until the last day of the Interest
Period therefor, at which time the Borrower shall pay to the respective Bank the
entire  principal  balance of such  Rollover  Eurodollar  Loan together with all
accrued and unpaid  interest with respect  thereto  (provided each such Rollover
Eurodollar  Loan  shall be  subject  to all the  terms  and  conditions  of this
Agreement  unless in the opinion of the Agent and the Required Banks the context
should indicate otherwise).

     (e)  Notwithstanding  anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement,
from the date hereof through and including January 19, 2000, the Banks shall (i)
on the last day of each Interest Period, and (ii) on the date of each borrowing,
repayment or  prepayment  of Loan(s)  hereunder,  at the direction of the Agent,
<PAGE>
make  appropriate  adjustments  (whether by  participation  or otherwise)  among
themselves in order to insure that the amount (and type) of Loans outstanding to
the Borrower from each Bank hereunder (as of such date) are proportionate to the
aggregate amount of the total  Commitments of the Banks hereunder.  The Borrower
agrees and consents to the terms of this subsection 2.9(e).

     Section 2.10. Computations.
                   ------------

     Interest on all Loans and each Fee shall be computed on the basis of a year
of 360 days and actual days elapsed  (including  the first day but excluding the
last) occurring in the period for which payable.

     Section 2.11. Minimum Amounts of Borrowings, Conversions,
                   Prepayments and Interest Periods.
                   ---------------------------------

     Except for borrowings,  conversions  and prepayments  that exhaust the full
remaining  amount  of  the  Aggregate  Revolving  Commitment  (in  the  case  of
borrowings)  or  result  in the  conversion  or  prepayment  of all  Loans  of a
particular type (in the case of conversions or prepayments) or conversions  made
pursuant to Section 2.18 or Section 2.20 hereof,  each borrowing from each Bank,
each  conversion  of Loans  of one type  into  Loans  of  another  type and each
prepayment of principal of Loans  hereunder shall be in an amount at least equal
to  $500,000  and in  integral  multiples  of $100,000 in the case of Prime Rate
Loans,  and in an amount at least equal to $2,000,000 and in integral  multiples
of  $100,000  in the  case of  Eurodollar  Loans  (borrowings,  conversions  and
prepayments of different  types of Loans at the same time hereunder to be deemed
separate borrowings,  conversions and prepayments for purposes of the foregoing,
one for each type).

     Section 2.12. Time and Method of Payments.
                   ---------------------------

     (a) Except as provided below, all payments of principal, interest, Fees and
other amounts (including  indemnities) to be paid by the Borrower under the Loan
Documents  or payable by the  Borrower  hereunder  shall be made in Dollars,  in
immediately available funds, shall be made to the Administrative Agent, prior to
11:00 a.m. on the date such  payment is due,  for the account of the  applicable
Credit Party at the Payment  Office,  without  set-off,  offset,  recoupment  or
counterclaim.  The failure of the Borrower to make any such payment by such time
shall not  constitute a Default,  provided that such payment is made on such due
date, but any such payment made after 1:00 p.m. on such due date shall be deemed
to have  been  made on the next  Business  Day for the  purpose  of  calculating
interest on amounts  outstanding on the Revolving Loans. As between the Borrower
and each Credit Party, any payment by the Borrower to the  Administrative  Agent
for the  account  of such  Credit  Party  shall be deemed to be  payment  by the
Borrower to such Credit  Party.  Notwithstanding  the  foregoing,  all  payments
pursuant  to  Sections  2.18,  2.22,  9.1 and 9.2 shall be paid  directly to the
Credit Party entitled thereto.  Furthermore,  the  Administrative  Agent and any
Bank for whose  account  any such  payment  is to be made may,  but shall not be
<PAGE>
obligated to, debit the amount of any such payment that is not made by such time
to any ordinary deposit account of the Borrower with the Administrative Agent or
such Bank, as the case may be. If any payment under the Loan Documents  shall be
due and  payable  on a day which is not a  Business  Day,  the due date  thereof
(except as  otherwise  provided  with  respect  to  Interest  Periods)  shall be
extended  to the next  Business  Day and  (except  with  respect to  payments in
respect of the Fees) interest shall be payable at the applicable  rate specified
herein during such extension,  provided, however, that if such next Business Day
would be after the  Termination  Date,  such payment shall instead be due on the
immediately  preceding Business Day. Additional  provisions relating to payments
are set forth in Section 9.3 hereof.

     (b) If at any time insufficient  funds are received by and available to the
Administrative  Agent to pay fully all amounts of  principal,  interest and fees
then due hereunder,  such funds shall be applied (A) first,  towards  payment of
interest and fees then due under the Loan  Documents,  ratably among the parties
entitled thereto in accordance with the amounts of interest and fees then due to
such parties,  and (B) second,  towards  payment of principal then due under the
Loan Documents,  ratably among the parties  entitled  thereto in accordance with
the amounts of principal then due to such parties.

     Section 2.13. Lending Offices.
                   ---------------

     The Loans of each type made by each Bank  shall be made and  maintained  at
such Bank's Applicable Lending Office for Loans of such type.

     Section 2.14. Failure to Fund.
                   ---------------

     The  failure  of any  Bank to make  any  Loan to be made by it on the  date
specified   therefor  shall  not  relieve  any  other  Bank  of  its  respective
obligations to make its Loans on such date, but no Bank shall be responsible for
the  failure  of any other  Bank to make  Loans to be made by such  other  Bank.

     Section 2.15. Pro Rata Treatment Between Banks.
                   --------------------------------

     Notwithstanding anything to the contrary provided herein, other than as set
forth in Section 2.9 hereof: (i) each borrowing from the Banks under Section 2.1
hereof will be made from the Banks and each payment of each Fee shall be made to
the Banks pro rata according to each Bank's Revolving Percentage (without giving
effect to the  termination  thereof,  whether  pursuant to  subsection  2.5 (a),
Article 8 or otherwise) ; (ii) each partial  reduction of the Commitments  shall
be applied to the  Commitments  of the Banks pro rata  according  to each Bank's
Revolving Percentage;  (iii) each conversion of Loans of a particular type under
Section 2.17 hereof (other than conversions provided for by Section 2.20 or 2.21
hereof)  will be made  pro rata  among  the  Banks  holding  Loans of such  type
according to the respective  principal amounts of such Loans held by such Banks;
(iv) each  payment  and  prepayment  of  principal  of or interest on Loans of a
particular  type  will be made to the  Banks  pro  rata in  accordance  with the
<PAGE>
respective  unpaid  principal  amounts of such Loans held by such Banks; and (v)
each  borrowing  from the Banks  under  Section 2.1 hereof will be made from the
Banks at the same  Interest  Period (if  applicable)  with  respect to each such
borrowing.

     Section 2.16. Sharing of Payments, and Set-Off Among Banks.
                   --------------------------------------------

     The Borrower hereby agrees that, in addition to (and without limitation of)
any right of set-off,  banker's lien or  counterclaim a Bank may otherwise have,
each Bank shall be entitled, at its option, to offset balances held by it at any
of its  offices  against  any  principal  of or  interest  on  any of its  Loans
hereunder,  or any Fee or other amount  payable to it, that is not paid when due
(regardless  of whether such  balances are then due to the  Borrower),  in which
case it shall promptly notify the Borrower and the other Banks thereof, provided
that its failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity thereof. If a
Bank shall  effect  payment of any  principal of or interest on Loans held by it
under this  Agreement  through the  exercise  of any right of set-off,  banker's
lien,  counterclaim or similar right, it shall promptly  purchase from the other
Banks  participations in the Loans held by the other Banks in such amounts,  and
make such other adjustments from time to time as shall be equitable,  to the end
that each Bank shall  share the benefit of such  payment pro rata in  accordance
with the unpaid  principal  and  interest on the Loans held by each of them.  To
such end the Banks shall make appropriate adjustments between themselves (by the
resale of participations sold or otherwise) if such payment is rescinded or must
otherwise  be  restored.  The  Borrower  agrees that such Bank so  purchasing  a
participation  in the Loans held by the other Banks may,  to the fullest  extent
permitted  by law,  exercise  all  rights of  payment  (including  the rights of
set-off,  banker's lien,  counterclaim  or similar  rights) with respect to such
participation  as fully as if such  Bank  were a direct  holder  of Loans in the
amount of such participation. Nothing contained herein shall require any Bank to
exercise  any such right or shall  affect the right of any Bank to exercise  and
retain the  benefits  of  exercising,  any such right with  respect to any other
indebtedness or obligation of the Borrower.

     Section 2.17. Conversions of Loans.
                   --------------------

     The Borrower  shall have the right to convert  Loans of one type into Loans
of another type from time to time,  provided  that:  (i) the Borrower shall give
the  Administrative  Agent notice of each such conversion as provided in Section
2.2 hereof;  (ii)  Eurodollar  Loans may be converted only on the last day of an
Interest Period for such Loans; and (iii) except as required by Sections 2.18 or
2.21 hereof,  no Prime Rate Loan may be converted  into a Eurodollar  Loan if on
the proposed  date of  conversion a Default or an Event of Default  exists.  The
Administrative  Agent shall use its best  efforts to notify the  Borrower of the
effectiveness  of such  conversion,  and  the new  interest  rate to  which  the
converted  Loans are  subject,  as soon as  practicable  after  the  conversion;
provided,  however,  that any failure to give such  notice  shall not affect the
Borrower's  obligations,  or the Banks' or the Administrative Agent's rights and
remedies, hereunder in any way whatsoever.
<PAGE>
     Section 2.18. Additional Costs; Capital Requirements.
                   --------------------------------------

     (a) In the event that any existing or future law or  regulation,  guideline
or  interpretation  thereof,  by any  court or  administrative  or  governmental
authority  charged with the  administration  thereof,  or compliance by any Bank
with any  request or  directive  (whether or not having the force of law) of any
such  authority  shall  impose,  modify  or deem  applicable  or  result  in the
application of, any capital  maintenance,  capital ratio or similar  requirement
against loan commitments made by any Bank hereunder, and the result of any event
referred to above is to impose upon any Bank or increase any capital requirement
applicable as a result of the making or maintenance  off such Bank's  Commitment
or the  obligation  of the Borrower  hereunder  with respect to such  Commitment
(which  imposition  of capital  requirements  may be  determined  by each Bank's
reasonable   allocation   of  the   aggregate  of  such  capital   increases  or
impositions),  then,  upon demand  made by such Bank as promptly as  practicable
after it obtains knowledge that such law, regulation, guideline, interpretation,
request or directive  exists and  determines  to make such demand,  the Borrower
shall  immediately  pay to such Bank from time to time as specified by such Bank
additional commitment fees which shall be sufficient to compensate such Bank for
such imposition of or increase in capital requirements together with interest on
each such amount from the date  demanded  until  payment in full  thereof at the
Post-Default  Rate. A certificate  setting forth in reasonable detail the amount
necessary to compensate such Bank as a result of an imposition of or increase in
capital requirements submitted by such Bank to the Borrower shall be conclusive,
absent manifest  error,  as to the amount thereof.  For purposes of this Section
2.18:  (i) in  calculating  the amount  necessary to compensate any Bank for any
imposition of or increase in capital requirements,  such Bank shall be deemed to
be  entitled  to a rate of return on  capital  (after  federal,  state and local
taxes) of fifteen percent per annum, and (ii) all references to any "Bank" shall
be deemed to include any participant in such Bank's Commitment.

     (b) In the event that any Regulatory  Change shall: (i) change the basis of
taxation of any amounts payable to any Bank under this Agreement or the Notes in
respect of any Loans including, without limitation, Eurodollar Loans (other than
taxes  imposed on the  overall net income of such Bank for any such Loans by the
United  States  of  America  or the  jurisdiction  in  which  such  Bank has its
Principal  Office);  or (ii)  impose  or modify  any  reserve,  Federal  Deposit
Insurance  Corporation  premium  or  assessment,   special  deposit  or  similar
requirements  relating to any  extensions  of credit or other  assets of, or any
deposits with or other liabilities of, such Bank (including any of such Loans or
any  deposits  referred to in the  definition  of "Fixed Base Rate" in Article 1
<PAGE>
hereof);  or (iii)  impose any other  conditions  affecting  this  Agreement  in
respect of Loans,  including,  without  limitation,  Eurodollar Loans (or any of
such extensions of credit, assets,  deposits or liabilities);  and the result of
any event  referred to in clause  (i),  (ii) or (iii) above shall be to increase
such  Bank's  costs of making  or  maintaining  any  Loans,  including,  without
limitation,  Eurodollar  Loans,  or its  Commitment,  or to  reduce  any  amount
receivable by such Bank hereunder in respect of any of its Eurodollar  Loans, or
its Commitment (such increases in costs and reductions in amounts receivable are
hereinafter  referred to as "Additional Costs") in each case, only to the extent
that such Additional Costs are not included in the Fixed Base Rate applicable to
such  Eurodollar  Loans,  then,  upon  demand  made by such Bank as  promptly as
practicable  after it obtains knowledge that such a Regulatory Change exists and
determines to make such demand, the Borrower shall pay to such Bank from time to
time as  specified by such Bank,  additional  commitment  fees or other  amounts
which shall be  sufficient to compensate  such Bank for such  increased  cost or
reduction  in  amounts  receivable  by such Bank  from the date of such  change,
together with interest on each such amount from the date demanded  until payment
in full thereof at the Post-Default  Rate. All references to any "Bank" shall be
deemed to include any participant in such Bank's Commitment.

     (c) Without limiting the effect of the foregoing provisions of this Section
2.18, in the event that, by reason of any  Regulatory  Change,  any Bank either:
(i) incurs Additional Costs based on or measured by the excess above a specified
level of the amount of a category of deposits or other  liabilities of such Bank
which  includes  deposits by reference to which the interest  rate on Eurodollar
Loans is determined as provided in this Agreement or a category of extensions of
credit or other assets of such Bank which  includes  Eurodollar  Loans,  or (ii)
becomes  subject to restrictions on the amount of such a category of liabilities
or  assets  that it may  hold,  then,  if such  Bank so  elects by notice to the
Borrower (with a copy to the other Banks),  the obligation of such Bank to make,
and to convert Loans of any other type into,  Loans of such type hereunder shall
be suspended until the date such  Regulatory  Change ceases to be in effect (and
all Loans of such type then outstanding shall be converted into Prime Rate Loans
or into Eurodollar Loans of another duration,  as the case may be, in accordance
with Sections 2.17 and 2.21 hereof).

     (d)  Determinations  by any Bank for  purposes of this  Section 2.18 of the
effect of any Regulatory  Change on its costs of making or maintaining  Loans or
on amounts  receivable by it in respect of Loans, and of the additional  amounts
required to compensate  such Bank in respect of any Additional  Costs,  shall be
set forth in  writing  in  reasonable  detail  and shall be  conclusive,  absent
manifest error.

     Section 2.19.  Limitation on Types of Loans.
                    ----------------------------

     Anything  herein to the  contrary  notwithstanding,  if, on or prior to the
determination  of an interest  rate for any  Eurodollar  Loans for any  Interest
Period  therefor,  the  Administrative  Agent  or  any  Bank  determines  (which
determination shall be conclusive):

     (a) by reason of any  event  affecting  the  Eurodollar  interbank  market,
quotations of interest rates for the relevant deposits are not being provided in
the relevant amounts or for the relevant  maturities for purposes of determining
the rate of interest for such Loans under this Agreement; or
<PAGE>
     (b) the rates of  interest  referred  to in the  definition  of "Fixed Base
Rate" in Article 1 hereof  upon the basis of which the rate of  interest  on any
Eurodollar  Loans for such period is determined,  do not accurately  reflect the
cost to the Banks of making or maintaining such Loans for such period;

then the  Administrative  Agent or such Bank, as the case may be, shall give the
Borrower and the other Banks prompt notice  thereof (and shall  thereafter  give
the  Borrower and such other Banks prompt  notice of the  cessation,  if any, of
such  condition),  and so long as such  condition  remains in effect,  the Banks
shall be under no  obligation  to make Loans of such type or to convert Loans of
any other  type  into  Loans of such type and the  Borrower  shall,  on the last
day(s) of the then current Interest  Period(s) for the outstanding  Loans of the
affected type either prepay such Loans in accordance  with Section 2.8 hereof or
convert  such Loans into Loans of another type in  accordance  with Section 2.17
hereof.

     Section 2.20. Illegality.
                   ----------

     Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement, in the event that it
becomes unlawful for any Bank or its Applicable Lending Office to: (i) honor its
obligation to make Eurodollar Loans hereunder, or (ii) maintain Eurodollar Loans
hereunder,  then such Bank shall  promptly  notify the Borrower  thereof (with a
copy to the other Banks),  describing such illegality in reasonable  detail (and
shall  thereafter  promptly  notify  the  Borrower  and the  other  Banks of the
cessation,  if any,  of such  illegality),  and such Bank's  obligation  to make
Eurodollar  Loans and to  convert  other  types of Loans into  Eurodollar  Loans
hereunder  shall,  upon written  notice given by such Bank to the  Borrower,  be
suspended  until such time as such Bank may again make and  maintain  Eurodollar
Loans and such Bank's outstanding Eurodollar Loans shall be converted into Prime
Rate Loans in accordance with Sections 2.17 and 2.21 hereof.

     Section 2.21. Certain Conversions pursuant to Sections 2.18 and 2.20.
                   ------------------------------------------------------

     If the  Loans of any Bank of a  particular  type  (Loans  of such  type are
hereinafter  referred  to as  "Affected  Loans"  and  such  type is  hereinafter
referred to as the "Affected Type") are to be converted pursuant to Section 2.18
or 2.20 hereof,  such Bank's  Affected  Loans shall be converted into Prime Rate
Loans,  or  Eurodollar  Loans of another type, as the case may be (the "New Type
Loans")  on the last  day(s)  of the then  current  Interest  Period(s)  for the
Affected Loans (or, in the case of a conversion  required by subsection  2.18(c)
or Section  2.20  hereof,  on such  earlier date as such Bank may specify to the
Borrower  with a copy to the other  Banks) and,  until such Bank gives notice as
provided below that the  circumstances  specified in Section 2.18 or 2.20 hereof
that gave rise to such conversion no longer exist:
<PAGE>
     (a) to the extent that such Bank's  Affected  Loans have been so converted,
all payments and  prepayments  of principal  that would  otherwise be applied to
such Affected Loans shall be applied instead to its New Type Loans; and

     (b) all Loans  that  would  otherwise  be made by such Bank as Loans of the
Affected Type shall be made instead as New Type Loans and all Loans of such Bank
that would  otherwise  be  converted  into Loans of the  Affected  Type shall be
converted instead into (or shall remain as) New Type Loans.

     Section 2.22. Indemnity.
                   ---------

     The  Borrower  hereby  agrees to  indemnify  each Bank  against any loss or
expense  which  such Bank may  sustain or incur as a  consequence  of any of the
following:

     (a) the failure of the Borrower to borrow a Eurodollar Loan after agreement
shall  have been  reached  on the  amount,  interest  rate and  Interest  Period
thereof;

     (b) the receipt or recovery by such Bank, whether by voluntary  prepayment,
acceleration or otherwise,  of all or any part of a Eurodollar Loan prior to the
last day of an Interest Period applicable thereto; or

     (c) the conversion, prior to the last day of an applicable Interest Period,
of a Eurodollar Loan into a Prime Loan.

     Without limiting the effect of the foregoing,  the amount to be paid by the
Borrower to such Bank in order to so indemnify such Bank for any loss occasioned
by any of the events  described in the  preceding  paragraph,  and as liquidated
damages therefor, shall be equal to the excess,  discounted to its present value
as of the date paid to such Bank, of (i) the amount of interest which  otherwise
would have accrued on the principal amount so received, recovered,  converted or
not borrowed during the period (the "Indemnity Period") commencing with the date
of such receipt,  recovery,  conversion, or failure to borrow to the last day of
the applicable  Interest Period for such Eurodollar Loan at the rate of interest
applicable  to such  Loan (or the rate of  interest  agreed  to in the case of a
failure to borrow)  provided for herein  (prior to default) over (ii) the amount
of interest which would be earned by such Bank during the Indemnity Period if it
invested the principal amount so received, recovered,  converted or not borrowed
at the rate per  annum  determined  by such Bank as the rate it would bid in the
London interbank market for a deposit of eurodollars in an amount  approximately
equal to such principal  amount for a period of time comparable to the Indemnity
Period.

     A certificate as to any additional amounts payable pursuant to this Section
2.22 setting  forth the basis and method of  determining  such amounts  shall be
conclusive,  absent  manifest error,  as to the  determination  by such Bank set
forth therein if made  reasonably and in good faith.  The Borrower shall pay any
amounts so  certified  to it by such Bank  within 10 days of receipt of any such
<PAGE>
certificate.  For purposes of this Section  2.22,  all  references to the "Bank"
shall be deemed to include  any  participant  in such Bank's  Commitment  and/or
Loans.

     The  indemnities  set forth  herein  shall  survive  payment in full of all
Eurodollar Loans and all other Loans made pursuant to this Agreement.

     Section 2.23. Security.
                   --------

     (a) In order to secure the due payment and  performance  by the Borrower of
the  Obligations,  simultaneously  with  the  execution  and  delivery  of  this
Agreement (or such later date as referenced below) the Borrower shall:

     (A) Grant to the Administrative  Agent for the ratable benefit of the Banks
a first Lien on, and pledge to the Administrative  Agent for the ratable benefit
of the Banks,  all of the issued and outstanding  shares of the capital stock of
Telephonics and Clopay by the execution and delivery to the Administrative Agent
of a Pledge Agreement substantially in the form of Exhibit A-2 hereto;

     (B)  Grant,   or  cause  each  of  its   Subsidiaries   to  grant,  to  the
Administrative Agent for the ratable benefit of the Banks, all of the issued and
outstanding  shares of the capital stock of any Eligible Business acquired after
the date hereof in a Permitted Acquisition, provided that the foregoing terms of
this  subsection  (B) in respect of  Subsidiaries  of Clopay and of  Telephonics
shall be subject to the terms of the proviso at the conclusion of subsection (c)
of the definition of "Permitted Acquisition"; and

     (C) Execute and deliver or cause to be executed  and  delivered  such other
agreements,  instruments and documents as the  Administrative  Agent or any Bank
may reasonably  require in order to effect the purposes of the Pledge Agreement,
this Section 2.23 and this Agreement.

     (b)  All of the  agreements,  instruments  and  documents  provided  for or
referred  to  in  this  Section  2.23  are  hereinafter  sometimes  referred  to
collectively as the "Security Documents".

     Article 3 Representations and Warranties.
               ------------------------------

     The Borrower hereby represents and warrants to the Administrative Agent and
the Banks that:
<PAGE>
     Section 3.1. Organization.
                  ------------


     (a) Each of the Borrower and each  Subsidiary is duly organized and validly
existing  under the laws of its state of  organization  and has the power to own
its assets and to transact the business in which it is presently  engaged and in
which it proposes  to be engaged.  Exhibit B hereto  accurately  and  completely
lists,  as to the  Borrower  and each  Principal  Subsidiary:  (i) the  state of
incorporation  or  organization,  and the type of legal entity that each of them
is, and (ii) the  classes and number of  authorized  and  outstanding  shares of
capital  stock of each such  corporation,  and the  owners  of such  outstanding
shares of capital  stock (other than with respect to the  Borrower).  All of the
shares of capital  stock of the  Borrower  and each  Subsidiary  or other equity
interests that are issued and outstanding  have been duly and validly issued and
are fully paid and non-assessable, and are owned by the Persons (other than with
respect to the Borrower and any Subsidiary  that is not a Principal  Subsidiary)
referred  to on  Exhibit  B,  free and  clear of any Lien  except  as  otherwise
provided for herein.  Except as set forth on Exhibit B, there are no outstanding
warrants,  options, contracts or commitments of any kind entitling any Person to
purchase  or  otherwise  acquire  any  shares of capital  stock or other  equity
interests of any Subsidiary nor are there  outstanding  any securities  that are
convertible into or exchangeable for any shares of capital stock or other equity
interests  of any  Subsidiary.  Except as set forth on  Exhibit B,  neither  the
Borrower nor any Subsidiary has any Subsidiary.

     (b) Each of the Borrower  and each  Subsidiary  is in good  standing in its
state of organization and in each state in which it is qualified to do business.
There are no jurisdictions  other than as set forth on Exhibit B hereto in which
the character of the properties owned or proposed to be owned by the Borrower or
any  Principal  Subsidiary  or in which the  transaction  of the business of the
Borrower  or any  Principal  Subsidiary  as now  conducted  or as proposed to be
conducted  requires or will require the Borrower or any Principal  Subsidiary to
qualify  to do  business  and as to which  failure  to so  qualify  could have a
Material Adverse Effect.

     Section 3.2. Power, Authority, Consents.
                  --------------------------

     The  Borrower  and each Loan Party has the power to  execute,  deliver  and
perform the Loan Documents to which it is a party. The Borrower has the power to
borrow  hereunder and has taken all necessary  corporate action to authorize the
borrowing hereunder on the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  The Borrower
and each Loan Party has taken all necessary action,  corporate or otherwise,  to
authorize the execution, delivery and performance of the Loan Documents to which
it is a  party.  No  consent  or  approval  of any  Person  (including,  without
limitation,  any  stockholder of the Borrower or any Loan Party ), no consent or
approval  of any  landlord  or  mortgagee,  no  waiver  of any  Lien or right of
distraint or other similar right and no consent,  license,  certificate of need,
approval,  authorization or declaration of any governmental authority, bureau or
agency,  is or will be required in connection  with the  execution,  delivery or
<PAGE>
performance by the Borrower or any Loan Party,  or the validity,  enforcement or
priority,  of the Loan  Documents  or any Lien  created and granted  thereunder,
except as set forth on Exhibit C hereto,  each of which either has been duly and
validly  obtained  on or prior to the date  hereof  and is now in full force and
effect, or is designated on Exhibit C as waived by the Required Banks.

     Section 3.3. No Violation of Law or Agreements.
                  ---------------------------------

     The execution and delivery by the Borrower and each Subsidiary of each Loan
Document to which it is a party and  performance by it hereunder and thereunder,
will not  violate  any  provision  of law  applicable  to the  Borrower  and its
Subsidiaries  and will not,  except as set forth on  Exhibit C hereto,  conflict
with  or  result  in  a  breach  of  any  order,  writ,  injunction,  ordinance,
resolution,  decree,  or other  similar  document or  instrument of any court or
governmental authority,  bureau or agency, domestic or foreign applicable to the
Borrower and its Subsidiaries, or any certificate of incorporation or by-laws of
the Borrower or any  Subsidiary  or create (with or without the giving of notice
or lapse of time,  or both) a default  under or breach of any  agreement,  bond,
note or  indenture  to which the Borrower or any  Subsidiary  is a party,  or by
which it is bound or any of its  properties or assets is affected,  or result in
the imposition of any Lien of any nature  whatsoever  upon any of the properties
or assets  owned by or used in  connection  with the business of the Borrower or
any Subsidiary.

     Section 3.4. Due Execution, Validity, Enforceability.
                  ---------------------------------------

     This  Agreement  and each other Loan  Document  has been duly  executed and
delivered by the Borrower and each Loan Party and each constitutes the valid and
legally binding  obligation of the Borrower and each Loan Party,  enforceable in
accordance  with  its  terms,  except  as such  enforcement  may be  limited  by
applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization,  moratorium, or other similar
laws,  now or hereafter in effect,  relating to or affecting the  enforcement of
creditors'  rights generally and except that the remedy of specific  performance
and other equitable remedies are subject to judicial discretion.

     Section 3.5. Properties, Priority of Liens; Existing Guarantees.
                  --------------------------------------------------

     All of the properties and assets owned by the Borrower and each  Subsidiary
are  owned by each of  them,  respectively,  free  and  clear of any Lien of any
nature  whatsoever,  except as provided  for in the Security  Documents,  and as
permitted by Section 7.2 hereof. The Liens that have been created and granted by
the Security Documents  constitute valid perfected first Liens on the properties
and assets covered by the Security Documents,  subject to no prior or equal Lien
except as  permitted by Section 7.2 hereof.  Exhibit K correctly  sets forth all
Guarantees,  Investments  in Foreign  Loan  Parties and other  known  Contingent
Obligations of the Borrower and each of its subsidiaries as of the date hereof.
<PAGE>
     Section 3.6. Judgments, Actions, Proceedings.
                  -------------------------------

     Except  as set  forth  on  Exhibit  E  hereto,  there  are  no  outstanding
judgments,   actions  or  proceedings,   including,   without  limitation,   any
Environmental  Proceeding,  pending before any court or governmental  authority,
bureau or agency,  with respect to or, to the best of the Borrower's  knowledge,
threatened  against or affecting the Borrower or any Subsidiary  that would,  if
adversely  determined,  in the case of any  action or court  proceeding,  have a
Material Adverse Effect, nor, to the best of the Borrower's knowledge,  is there
any  reasonable  basis  for the  institution  of any  such  material  action  or
proceeding  that is probable  of  assertion,  nor are there any such  actions or
proceedings  in  which  the  Borrower  or  any  Subsidiary  is  a  plaintiff  or
complainant.

     Section 3.7. No Defaults, Compliance With Laws.
                  ---------------------------------

     Except as set  forth on  Exhibit F hereto,  neither  the  Borrower  nor any
Subsidiary is in default under any  agreement,  ordinance,  resolution,  decree,
bond, note,  indenture,  order or judgment to which it is a party or by which it
is  bound,  or any  other  agreement  or other  instrument  by which  any of the
properties  or assets  owned by it or used in the  conduct  of its  business  is
affected,  which default could have a material  adverse  effect on the business,
operations,   financial   condition  or  properties  of  the  Borrower  and  its
Subsidiaries  on a  consolidated  basis or on the  ability  of the  Borrower  to
perform  its  obligations  under  the  Loan  Documents.  The  Borrower  and each
Subsidiary has complied and is in compliance in all respects with all applicable
laws,  ordinances and regulations,  resolutions,  ordinances,  decrees and other
similar  documents and instruments of all courts and  governmental  authorities,
bureaus and agencies, domestic and foreign,  including,  without limitation, all
applicable  Environmental Laws and Regulations,  non-compliance with which could
have a material adverse effect on the business, operations,  financial condition
or properties of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis or on
the ability of the Borrower to perform its obligations under the Loan Documents.

     Section 3.8. Burdensome Documents.
                  --------------------

     Except as set  forth on  Exhibit G hereto,  neither  the  Borrower  nor any
Subsidiary  is a party to or bound by, nor are any of the  properties  or assets
owned by the Borrower or any Subsidiary used in the conduct of their  respective
businesses  affected by, any agreement,  ordinance,  resolution,  decree,  bond,
note, indenture,  order or judgment,  including,  without limitation, any of the
foregoing  relating to any Environmental  Matter,  that materially and adversely
affects  their  respective  businesses,  assets  or  conditions,   financial  or
otherwise, on a consolidated basis.

     Section 3.9. Financial Statements.
                  --------------------

     Each of the  Financial  Statements  is correct and  complete  and  presents
fairly  the  consolidated   financial  position,  the  consolidated  results  of
operations  and cash flows of the Borrower and its  Subsidiaries,  as at and for
its date, and has been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting
<PAGE>
principles consistently applied. Neither the Borrower nor any Subsidiary has any
material obligation,  liability or commitment,  direct or contingent (including,
without limitation, any Environmental Liability and any Contingent Obligation) ,
that is required to be but is not reflected in the Financial  Statements.  There
has been no material  adverse change in the financial  position or operations of
the Borrower and its Subsidiaries on a consolidated  basis since the date of the
latest balance sheet included in the Financial  Statements  (the "Latest Balance
Sheet") which could reasonably result in the Borrower's inability to perform its
obligations  under  the  Loan  Documents.  The  Borrower's  fiscal  year  is the
twelve-month period ending on September 30th in each year.

     Section 3.10. Tax Returns.
                   -----------

     Each of the  Borrower and each of the  Subsidiaries  has filed all federal,
state and local tax returns required to be filed by it and has not failed to pay
any taxes,  or interest and  penalties  relating  thereto,  on or before the due
dates thereof.  Except to the extent that reserves therefor are reflected in the
Financial  Statements:  (i) there are no  material  federal,  state or local tax
liabilities  of the Borrower or any  subsidiary due or to become due for any tax
year ended on or prior to the date of the Latest  Balance Sheet relating to such
entity, whether incurred in respect of or measured by the income of such entity,
that are not properly  reflected in the Latest  Balance  Sheet  relating to such
entity,  and (ii) there are no material  claims  pending or, to the knowledge of
the Borrower,  proposed or threatened against the Borrower or any Subsidiary for
past federal,  state or local taxes,  except  those,  if any, as to which proper
reserves are reflected in the Financial Statements.

     Section 3.11. Intangible Assets.
                   -----------------

     Each of the Borrower and each Subsidiary possesses all patents, trademarks,
service  marks,  trade  names,  and  copyrights,  and rights with respect to the
foregoing, necessary to conduct its business as now conducted and as proposed to
be conducted, without any conflict with the patents, trademarks,  service marks,
trade names,  and copyrights  and rights with respect to the  foregoing,  of any
other Person.


     Section 3.12. Regulation U.
                   ------------

     No part of the  proceeds  received by the  Borrower  from the Loans will be
used  directly or  indirectly  for:  (a) any purpose  other than as set forth in
Section 2.9 hereof, or (b) the purpose of purchasing or carrying, or for payment
in full or in part  of  Indebtedness  that  was  incurred  for the  purposes  of
purchasing or carrying,  any "margin stock", as such term is defined in 221.3 of
Regulation U of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, 12 C.F.R.,
Chapter II, Part 221, other than purchases made in compliance with Regulation U.
<PAGE>
     Section 3.13. Name Changes, Mergers, Acquisitions.
                   -----------------------------------

     Except as set  forth on  Exhibit H hereto,  neither  the  Borrower  nor any
Principal  Subsidiary has within the six-year period  immediately  preceding the
date of this Agreement  changed its name, been the surviving  entity of a merger
or  consolidation,  or acquired  all or  substantially  all of the assets of any
Person, where the value of the assets acquired in such merger,  consolidation or
acquisition was material in relation to the total assets of the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

     Section 3.14. Full Disclosure.
                    ---------------

     None of the Financial  Statements,  nor any  certificate,  opinion,  or any
other statement made or furnished in writing to the Administrative  Agent or the
Banks by or on behalf of the Borrower or any Subsidiary in connection  with this
Agreement or the transactions contemplated herein, contains any untrue statement
of a material fact, or omits to state a material fact necessary in order to make
the statements  contained therein or herein not misleading,  as of the date such
statement was made. There is no fact known to the Borrower that has, or would in
the forseeable  future have, a Material Adverse Effect,  which fact has not been
set forth herein, or in the Financial Statements, or any certificate, opinion or
other written statement so made or furnished to the Administrative  Agent or the
Banks.

     Section 3.15. Licenses and Approvals.
                   ----------------------

     The  Borrower  and  each of the  Subsidiaries  has all  material  licenses,
permits  and  governmental   authorizations,   including,   without  limitation,
licenses,  permits and authorizations  relating to Environmental Matters, to own
and operate its properties and to carry on its business as now conducted.


     Section 3.16. Labor Disputes; Collective Bargaining Agreements;
                   Employee Grievances.
                   --------------------

     Except as set  forth on  Exhibit I  hereto:  (a) no  collective  bargaining
agreement or other labor contract will expire during the term of this Agreement;
(b) to the Borrower's knowledge, no union or other labor organization is seeking
to organize, or to be recognized as bargaining  representative for, a bargaining
unit of employees of the Borrower or any Subsidiary;  (c) there is no pending or
threatened  strike,  work  stoppage,  material  unfair labor  practice  claim or
charge,  arbitration or other  material  labor dispute  against or affecting the
Borrower or any Subsidiary or their representative  employees,  in each case the
consequences of which could reasonably be expected to affect aggregate  business
(regardless  of division or entity) of the Borrower and its  Subsidiaries  which
business  generated  gross revenues in excess of $50,000,000  individually or in
the  aggregate in the prior fiscal  year;  and (d) there are no actions,  suits,
charges,  demands, claims,  counterclaims or proceedings pending or, to the best
of the  Borrower's  knowledge,  threatened  against  the  Borrower or any of the
Subsidiaries,  by or on behalf of, or with, its  employees,  other than any such
actions, suits, charges,  demands, claims,  counterclaims or proceedings arising
in the ordinary course of business that are not, in the aggregate, material.
<PAGE>
     Section 3.17. Condition of Assets.
                   -------------------

     All of the assets and properties of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries  that
are reasonably necessary for the operation of their respective  businesses,  are
in good working  condition,  ordinary  wear and tear  excepted,  and are able to
serve the function for which they are currently being used.

     Section 3.18. ERISA.
                   -----

     (a) Except as  disclosed  on Exhibit J hereto,  no Pension  Plan or Defined
Contribution  Plan  which  is  an  Employee  Benefit  Plan  including,   without
limitation,  any  Multiemployer  Plan,  exists or has ever,  within the six-year
period immediately preceding the date of this Agreement, existed and neither the
Borrower nor any ERISA Affiliate is a participating employer in any Pension Plan
which  is an  Employee  Benefit  Plan in which  more  than  one  employer  makes
contributions  as  described  in  Sections  4063 and 4064 of  ERISA.  Except  as
disclosed on Exhibit J, neither the  Borrower  nor any ERISA  Affiliate  has any
contingent  liability  with  respect to any  post-retirement  benefit  under any
Employee  Welfare  Benefit  Plan which is a welfare  plan (as defined in Section
3(l) of ERISA),  other than  liability  for health  plan  continuation  coverage
described  in Part 6 of Title I of  ERISA,  which  together  with any  disclosed
liability on Exhibit J, will not have an ERISA MAE. The Borrower has given, made
available,  or upon request will deliver,  to the  Administrative  Agent and the
Banks  true and  complete  copies of all the  following:  each  Pension  Plan or
Defined  Contribution  Plan which is an Employee  Benefit Plan and related trust
agreement  (including  all  amendments  and  commitments  with  respect  to such
Employee  Benefit  plan or trust)  which  the  Borrower  or any ERISA  Affiliate
maintains or is committed  to  contribute  to as of the date hereof and the most
recent summary plan description,  actuarial report,  determination letter issued
by the  Internal  Revenue  Service  and Form 5500  filed in respect of each such
Employee Benefit Plan; a listing of all of the Multiemployer  Plans to which the
Borrower or any ERISA  Affiliate  contributes  or is committed to contribute and
the aggregate amount of the most recent annual contributions required to be made
to each such Multiemployer  Plan, and any information which has been provided to
the Borrower or any ERISA  Affiliate  regarding  withdrawal  liability under any
Multiemployer  Plan and the collective  bargaining  agreement  pursuant to which
such contribution is required to be made.


     (b) Each Employee Benefit Plan complies,  in both form and operation in all
material  respects,  with  its  terms,  ERISA  and the Code  including,  without
limitation,  Code Section 4980B,  and no condition  exists or event has occurred
with  respect  to any such plan  which  would  result in the  incurrence  by the
Borrower or any ERISA  Affiliate  of any  material  liability,  fine or penalty.
Neither the Borrower nor any ERISA  Affiliate  has incurred any liability to the
PBGC which remains outstanding other than the payment of premiums, and there are
no premiums which have become due which are unpaid. Neither the Borrower nor any
ERISA  Affiliate  has  engaged  in any  transaction  which  could  subject it to
<PAGE>
material liability under Section 4069 or Section 4212(c) of ERISA. Each Employee
Benefit  Plan,  related  trust  agreement,  arrangement  and  commitment  of the
Borrower and each ERISA Affiliate is legally valid and binding and in full force
and  effect.  Except as  provided  on  Exhibit J and  subject to  amendment  and
submission for a determination  letter with regard to the Tax Reform Act of 1986
requirements and other post 1986  requirements,  each Employee Benefit Plan that
is intended to be qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code has been determined
by the Internal  Revenue  Service to be so qualified,  and each trust related to
such plan has been  determined to be exempt under Section 501(a) of the Code. To
the knowledge of the Borrower, nothing has occurred or is expected to occur that
would adversely  affect the qualified status of the Employee Benefit Plan or any
related  trust  subsequent  to the  issuance of such  determination  letter.  No
Employee  Benefit Plan is being  audited or, to the  knowledge of the  Borrower,
investigated  by any  government  agency or subject to any pending or threatened
claim or suit.


     (c) Each  Pension  Plan  currently  meets the minimum  funding  standard of
Section 302 of ERISA and Section 412 of the Code (without  regard to any funding
waiver).  All contributions or payments due and owing as required by Section 302
of ERISA,  Section  412 of the Code or the terms of any  Pension  Plan have been
made by the due date for such  contributions  or payments.  With respect to each
Multiemployer  Plan,  the Borrower and each ERISA  Affiliate has paid or accrued
all contributions  pursuant to the terms of the applicable collective bargaining
agreement  required to be paid or accrued by it and neither the Borrower nor any
ERISA  Affiliate  has incurred any  withdrawal  liability in  connection  with a
complete  withdrawal or partial  withdrawal from any Multiemployer Plan that has
not been  discharged.  With  respect to each Pension  Plan,  the market value of
assets (exclusive of any contribution due to the Pension Plan) equals or exceeds
or is not more than $250,000 below the present value of benefit liabilities (FAS
35)  (assuming  such  Plan  were to  continue  in  existence)  as of the  latest
actuarial  valuation date for such plan (but not prior to 24 months prior to the
date  hereof),  determined  on  the  basis  of  such  Pension  Plan's  actuarial
assumptions set forth in the most recent  actuarial  report,  and since its last
valuation  date,  there  have been no  amendments  to such plan that  materially
increased the present value of accrued  benefits nor any other material  adverse
changes in the funding  status of such plan.  Neither the Borrower nor any ERISA
Affiliate is required to provide  security to a Pension Plan pursuant to Section
307 of ERISA or Section 401(a) (29) of the Code.

     (d) Neither the Borrower nor any ERISA  Affiliate,  nor, to the best of the
Borrower's knowledge, any fiduciary of any Employee Benefit Plan, has engaged in
a prohibited  transaction under Section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code
with regard to any such Employee  Benefit  Plans.  The  execution,  delivery and
carrying out of the terms of any agreements that are related to this transaction
will not constitute a prohibited transaction under the aforementioned sections.
<PAGE>
     (e) No Termination Event has occurred or is reasonably expected to occur.

     (f) None of the  following  "reportable  events"  which are  subject to the
30-day notice  requirement of Section  4043(b) of ERISA in respect of any of the
Pension  Plans has  occurred:  (i) an inability to pay benefits  when due,  (ii)
bankruptcy or insolvency of the sponsor of the Pension Plan,  (iii)  liquidation
or  dissolution  of the sponsor of the Pension Plan,  (iv) a failure to meet the
minimum funding  standards,  or (v) certain  transactions  involving a change of
employer. The Borrower has not received any notice from the PBGC that any of the
Pension  Plans is being  involuntarily  terminated  or from the Secretary of the
Treasury  that any partial or full  termination  of any of the Employee  Benefit
Plans has occurred and no event shall have occurred, and there shall exist as of
the date hereof no condition or set of  circumstances  which  present a material
risk of the involuntary termination of any of the Pension Plans.

     (g) All  references  to the  Borrower in this  Section 3.18 or in any other
Section  of this  Agreement  relating  to ERISA  shall be deemed to refer to the
Borrower, and any other entity which is considered an ERISA Affiliate.

     (h) All  references in this Section 3.18,  and in other  provisions of this
Agreement  relating to ERISA,  to materiality  or material  liability or similar
phrases  shall be  deemed  to  refer  to the  event  or  matter  described  both
individually  and when taken together in the aggregate with respect to all other
events and matters referred to in this Agreement relating to ERISA as to which a
materiality standard applies.

     Section 3.19. Year 2000 Issue.
                   ---------------

     The Borrower and its  Subsidiaries  are  addressing  the effect of the Year
2000 Issue on the computer software, hardware and firmware systems and equipment
containing  embedded microchips owned or operated by or for the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries or used or relied upon in the conduct of their business  (including
systems and equipment  supplied by others or with which such computer systems of
the Borrower and its Subsidiaries interface).  The costs to the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries of any reprogramming required as a result of the Year 2000 Issue to
permit the proper  functioning  of such  systems  and  equipment  and the proper
processing of data, and the testing of such reprogramming, and of the reasonably
foreseeable  consequences  of the Year 2000 Issue to the  Borrower or any of its
Subsidiaries  (including  reprogramming  errors  and the  failure  of systems or
equipment supplied by others) are not reasonably expected to result in a Default
or Event of Default or to have a Material Adverse Effect.
<PAGE>
     Article 4 Conditions to the Loans.
               -----------------------

     Section 4.1. Conditions to Initial Loans.
                  ---------------------------

     The  obligation  of each  Bank to make  the  initial  Loan to be made by it
hereunder  shall be  subject  to the  fulfillment  of the  following  conditions
precedent:

     (a) The Borrower shall have executed and delivered to each Bank its Note.

     (b) The Borrower  shall have executed and delivered to the Banks the Pledge
Agreement  together  with  the  certificates  evidencing  the  capital  stock of
Telephonics  and Clopay,  accompanied by stock powers duly endorsed in blank and
undated, and irrevocable proxies relating thereto;

     (c) The  Borrower  shall  have paid to the  Administrative  Agent  (for the
ratable benefit of the Banks) the Facility Fee.

     (d) The Borrower shall have paid all amounts required to be paid by Section
2.7(c)  and the  Administrative  Agent  shall have  received  all fees and other
amounts due and payable to the Administrative  Agent under the Loan Documents on
or prior to the date hereof.

     (e) Blau,  Kramer,  Wactlar  &  Lieberman,  P.C.,  general  counsel  to the
Borrower and the  Subsidiaries  shall have delivered its opinion to, and in form
and substance satisfactory to, the Banks.

     (f) The  Administrative  Agent  shall have  received  and  reviewed  to its
satisfaction copies of the following:

     (i) All of the  consents,  approvals  and waivers  referred to on Exhibit C
hereto  (except  only  those  which,  as  stated  on  Exhibit  C,  shall  not be
delivered);

     (ii) The  certificate of  incorporation  of the Borrower and each Principal
Subsidiary certified by the Secretary of State of its state of incorporation;

     (iii) The by-laws of the Borrower and each Principal  Subsidiary  certified
by its secretary or assistant secretary;

     (iv) All corporate action taken by the Borrower to authorize the execution,
delivery and performance of the Loan Documents and the transactions contemplated
thereby, certified by its secretary or assistant secretary,  including,  without
limitation, resolutions of the Board of Directors of the Borrower;
<PAGE>
     (v) Good  standing  certificates  as of dates not more than forty (40) days
prior to the date of the initial  Loan,  with  respect to the  Borrower and each
Principal  Subsidiary from the Secretary of State of its state of  incorporation
and each state in which it is qualified to do business;

     (vi) An incumbency  certificate (with specimen  signatures) with respect to
the Borrower; and

     (vii) Lien searches from such  jurisdictions and in such names as the Banks
may request.

     (g) (i) The Borrower and each Subsidiary shall have complied and shall then
be in  compliance  with  all of the  terms,  covenants  and  conditions  of this
Agreement;

     (ii) After giving effect to the initial Loan,  there shall exist no Default
or Event of Default hereunder; and

     (iii) The representations and warranties  contained in Article 3 hereof and
in the other Loan Documents shall be true and correct on the date hereof;

and the Administrative Agent shall have received a Compliance  Certificate dated
the date hereof  certifying,  inter alia,  that the conditions set forth in this
subsection 4.1(g) are satisfied on such date.

     (h) All legal matters  incident to the initial Loans shall be  satisfactory
to counsel to the Administrative Agent and each Bank.

     Section 4.2. Conditions to Subsequent Loans.
                  ------------------------------

     The  obligation  of each Bank to make each Loan  subsequent  to its initial
Loan shall be subject to the  fulfillment  of the condition  precedent  that the
Administrative  Agent shall have received a Borrowing  Notice in accordance with
Section  2.2 hereof,  containing,  in  addition  to the notice of  borrowing,  a
representation  by the  Borrower  (signed by the  president  or chief  financial
officer of the  Borrower)  that (i) no Default or Event of Default has  occurred
and is  continuing  and  (ii) the  representations  and  warranties  made by the
Borrower  under  Section 3.9 hereof shall be correct on and as of the  borrowing
date for such extension of credit as if made on and as of such date.

     Article 5 Delivery of Financial Reports, Documents and Other Information.
               --------------------------------------------------------------

     While the Commitments are  outstanding,  and, in the event any Loan remains
outstanding,  so long as the  Borrower  is  indebted  to the  Banks  under  this
<PAGE>
Agreement,  and  until  payment  in full of the  Notes  and  full  and  complete
performance  of all of its other  obligations  arising  hereunder,  the Borrower
shall deliver to the Administrative Agent and each Bank:

     Section 5.1. Annual Financial Statements.
                  ---------------------------

     Annually,  as soon as available,  but in any event within one hundred (100)
days  after the last day of each of its fiscal  years,  a  consolidated  balance
sheet of the  Borrower  and the  Subsidiaries  as at such last day of the fiscal
year,  and  consolidated  statements  of income,  shareholders'  equity and cash
flows, for such fiscal year, each prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles  consistently applied, in reasonable detail, and certified
without a "going concern" or like  qualification or exception,  or qualification
arising out of the scope of the audit by Arthur  Andersen LLP or another firm of
independent certified public accountants  satisfactory to the Banks, which shall
state  that  such   consolidated   financial   statements   present  fairly  the
consolidated financial position, the consolidated results of operations and cash
flows of the  Borrower  as at and for the year  ending on its date and as having
been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

     Section 5.2. Quarterly Financial Statements.
                  ------------------------------

     As soon as  available,  but in any event within (i) seventy (70) days after
the end of each of the Borrower's first three fiscal quarterly  periods and (ii)
one hundred,  (100) days after the end of each of the  Borrower's  fourth fiscal
quarterly  periods,  a  consolidated  and  consolidating  balance  sheet  of the
Borrower  and  the  Subsidiaries  as  of  the  last  day  of  such  quarter  and
consolidated  and  consolidating  statements of income and cash flows,  for such
quarter,  and on a comparative basis figures for the corresponding period of the
immediately preceding fiscal year, all in reasonable detail, each such statement
to be certified in a certificate of the president or chief financial  officer of
the Borrower and the  Subsidiaries  as fairly  presenting the  consolidated  and
consolidating  financial position, the consolidated and consolidating results of
operations  and cash flows of the  Borrower as at its date and for such  quarter
and as having been prepared in accordance  with  generally  accepted  accounting
principles consistently applied (subject to year-end audit adjustments).

     Section 5.3. Projections.
                  -----------

     Annually,  as soon as available,  but in any event within 60 days after the
last day of each of the Borrower's fiscal years,  consolidated and consolidating
projections  of the Borrower and the  Subsidiaries  for the  following  five (5)
fiscal years of the Borrower.
<PAGE>
     Section 5.4. Compliance Information.
                  ----------------------

     Promptly after a written  request  therefor,  such other  financial data or
information  evidencing compliance with the requirements of this Agreement,  the
Notes and the other Loan Documents, as any Bank may reasonably request from time
to time.

     Section 5.5. No Default Certificate.
     -----------------------------------

     At the same time as it delivers the financial statements required under the
provisions  of Section 5.2  hereof,  a  certificate  of the  president  or chief
financial  officer of the  Borrower  to the  effect  that no Default or Event of
Default  hereunder  and that no default  under any other  agreement to which the
Borrower or any of the  Subsidiaries  is a party or by which it is bound,  or by
which,  to the best  knowledge  of the  Borrower  or any  Subsidiary  any of its
properties or assets,  taken as a whole, may be materially  adversely  affected,
and no event  which,  with the  giving of notice or the lapse of time,  or both,
would constitute such an Event of Default or default, exists, or, if such cannot
be so certified, specifying in reasonable detail the exceptions, if any, to such
statement.  Such  certificate  shall be  accompanied  by a detailed  calculation
indicating  compliance with the covenants contained in Sections 6.9, 7.3 and 7.8
(other than 7.8(a)) hereof.

     Section 5.6. Certificate of Accountants.
                  --------------------------

     At the same time as it delivers the financial statements required under the
provisions of Section 5.1 hereof,  a certificate  of the  independent  certified
public accountants of the Borrower to the effect that during the course of their
audit of the  operations  of the Borrower and its condition as of the end of the
fiscal year,  nothing has come to their  attention which would indicate that the
Borrower was not in compliance with any of the terms,  covenants,  provisions or
conditions  of Section  6.9 or Article 7 insofar  as they  relate to  accounting
matters, or, if such cannot be so certified, specifying in reasonable detail the
exceptions, if any, to such statement.


     Section 5.7. Accountants, Reports.
                  --------------------

     Promptly upon receipt thereof, copies of all other reports submitted to the
Borrower by its independent  certified public accountants in connection with any
annual or  interim  audit or review  of the books of the  Borrower  made by such
accountants.

     Section 5.8. Copies of Documents.
                  -------------------

     (a) Promptly upon their  becoming  available,  copies of any: (i) financial
statements,  projections,  and requests for waivers, in each case,  delivered by
the Borrower or any of the  Subsidiaries to any lending  institution  other than
the Banks;  (ii)  correspondence  or notices  received by the Borrower  from any
federal,  state or local governmental authority that regulates the operations of
the Borrower or any of its  Subsidiaries  or relating to an actual or threatened
change or  development  that would be materially  adverse to the Borrower or any
<PAGE>
Subsidiary;  (iii)  registration  statements and any amendments and  supplements
thereto,  and any regular and periodic reports, if any, filed by the Borrower or
any of its Subsidiaries with any securities  exchange or with the Securities and
Exchange  Commission or any governmental  authority  succeeding to any or all of
the functions of the said  Commission;  and (iv) any other items which the Banks
may reasonably request.

     (b)  Promptly  upon  request  by  any  Bank,   copies  of  all  acquisition
agreements,  exhibits, schedules, documents and other agreements relating to any
Permitted  Acquisition  (as and when  available  and  whether  in draft or final
form).

     Section 5.9. Certain Notices.
                  ---------------

     Promptly,  notice of the occurrence of any Default or Event of Default,  or
any event  that  would  constitute  or cause a  material  adverse  change in the
condition,  financial or otherwise,  or the operations of the Borrower or any of
its Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

     Section 5.10. ERISA Notices and Requests.
                   --------------------------

     Notice of any of the following  within twenty (20) days after such event or
occurrence:

     (a) the Borrower or any ERISA  Affiliate  knowing or having  reason to know
that a Termination  Event has occurred or that a Defined  Contribution  Plan has
been  terminated  or  partially  terminated,  and a  written  statement  by  the
appropriate chief financial officer setting forth the details of such event;

     (b) the filing of a request  for a funding  waiver by the  Borrower  or any
ERISA Affiliate with respect to any Pension Plan, and a copy of such request and
all communications  received by the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate with respect
to such request;

     (c)  receipt  by the  Borrower  or any ERISA  Affiliate  of a notice of the
PBGC's intent to terminate a Pension Plan, and a copy of such notice;

     (d)  the  Borrower  or any  ERISA  Affiliate  failing  to  make a  required
installment  or payment under Section 302 of ERISA or Section 412 of the Code by
the due date, and a written notice of such failure;

     (e) the Borrower or any ERISA  Affiliate  knowing or having  reason to know
that a  prohibited  transaction  (as  defined in Section 406 of ERISA or Section
4975 of the Code) has occurred with respect to any Employee  Benefit Plan, and a
written  statement of the appropriate  chief financial  officer  describing such
transaction and the action taken;
<PAGE>
     (f)  the  establishment  of a  Pension  Plan  and  written  notice  of such
occurrence;

     (g) receipt by the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate of any  disqualification
notice from the  Internal  Revenue  Service  regarding  the  qualification  of a
Pension Plan under Section 401(a) of the Code and a copy of such letter;

     (h) upon the request of any Bank, the filing of an annual report (Form 5500
series),  including  Schedule  B  thereto,  filed by the  Borrower  or any ERISA
Affiliate with respect to a Employee Benefit Plan, and a copy of such report;

     (i)  upon  request  of any  Bank,  receipt  by the  Borrower  or any  ERISA
Affiliate  of an  actuarial  report  for any  Pension  Plan,  and a copy of such
report;

     (j) receipt by the Borrower or any ERISA  Affiliate  of all  correspondence
from the PBGC,  the  Secretary  of Labor or any  representative  of the IRS with
respect to any  Employee  Benefit  Plans,  relating  to an actual or  threatened
change or development which would have a materially adverse effect on Borrower's
business; and

     (k) receipt by the Borrower or any ERISA  Affiliate  of any  correspondence
from a Multiemployer Plan with respect to withdrawal liability.

     Section 5.11. Permitted Acquisition Deliveries.
                   --------------------------------

     Not later than ten (10) Business Days after the consummation of a Permitted
Acquisition,  (i) on a pro forma  basis  after  giving  effect  to the  proposed
acquisition  and based on  reasonable  assumptions  made by the Borrower in good
faith,  a  consolidated  and  consolidating  balance sheet of the Borrower,  its
subsidiaries  and  each  Eligible  Business,  and  a  related  consolidated  and
consolidating  statement of income and statements of cash flow for the three (3)
fiscal years following the date of such acquisition,  each such statement (1) to
show all deferred  and  contingent  payments  which the Borrower or the Eligible
Business, as applicable, directly or indirectly, would be required to make based
on the Eligible Business' projected pro forma results of operations,  and (2) to
be accompanied by a certificate of the chief  financial  officer of the Borrower
certifying that after giving effect to the  acquisition,  no Default or Event of
Default has occurred and is continuing,  which  certificate shall be accompanied
by a list of Liens,  Indebtedness,  guaranties and letters of credit incurred or
otherwise assumed in connection with such acquisition and such other information
as the Administrative Agent or any Bank may reasonably request.
<PAGE>
     Article 6 Affirmative Covenants.
               ---------------------

     While the Commitments are  outstanding,  and, in the event any Loan remains
outstanding,  so long as the  Borrower  is  indebted  to the  Banks  under  this
Agreement,  and  until  payment  in full of the  Notes  and  full  and  complete
performance  of all of its other  obligations  arising  hereunder,  the Borrower
shall and shall cause each Subsidiary to:

     Section 6.1. Books and Records.
                  -----------------

     Keep proper  books of record and  account in which  full,  true and correct
entries  shall  be made of all  dealings  or  transactions  in  relation  to its
business and activities.

     Section 6.2. Inspections and Audits.
                  ----------------------

     Permit  the  Administrative  Agent and the Banks (i) to make or cause to be
made (and,  after the  occurrence of and during the  continuance  of an Event of
Default,  at the  Borrower's  expense),  inspections  and  audits of any  books,
records  and papers of the  Borrower  and each of its  Subsidiaries  and to make
extracts therefrom and copies thereof and (ii) make inspections and examinations
of any  properties'  and  facilities  of the  Borrower and the  Subsidiaries  on
reasonable   notice,   at  all  such  reasonable  times  and  as  often  as  the
Administrative  Agent or any Bank may reasonably require, in order to assure the
Administrative  Agent  and  each  Bank  that  the  Borrower  is and  will  be in
compliance  with its  obligations  under the Loan  Documents  or to evaluate any
Bank's investment in the then outstanding Notes.

     Section 6.3. Maintenance and Repairs.
                  -----------------------

     Maintain in good repair,  working  order and  condition,  subject to normal
wear and tear, all material  properties and assets from time to time owned by it
and  used in or  necessary  for the  operation  of its  business,  and  make all
reasonable repairs, replacements, additions and improvements thereto.

     Section 6.4. Continuance of Business.
                  -----------------------

     Do, or cause to be done,  all things  reasonably  necessary to preserve and
keep in full force and effect its corporate  existence  and all permits,  rights
and privileges  necessary for the proper conduct of its business and continue to
engage in the same line of business and comply in all material respects with all
applicable laws, regulations and orders.
<PAGE>
     Section 6.5. Copies of Corporate Documents.
                  -----------------------------

     Promptly  deliver to the  Administrative  Agent and the Banks copies of any
amendments  or  modifications  to  its  and  any  Subsidiary's   certificate  of
incorporation  and  by-laws,  certified  with  respect  to  the  certificate  of
incorporation by the Secretary of State of its state of incorporation  and, with
respect  to the  by-laws,  by the  secretary  or  assistant  secretary  of  such
corporation.

     Section 6.6. Perform Obligations.
                  -------------------

     Pay  and  discharge  all of its  obligations  and  liabilities,  including,
without  limitation,  all taxes,  assessments and governmental  charges upon its
income  and  properties  when  due,  unless  and to the  extent  only  that such
obligations,  liabilities,  taxes, assessments and governmental charges shall be
contested in good faith and by appropriate  proceedings  and that, to the extent
required by generally accepted accounting  principles then in effect, proper and
adequate book reserves relating thereto are established by the Borrower,  or, as
the case may be, by the appropriate  Subsidiary and then only to the extent that
a bond is filed in cases  where the filing of a bond is  necessary  to avoid the
creation of a Lien, other than a Permitted Lien, against any of its properties.

     Section 6.7. Notice of Litigation.
                  --------------------

     Promptly  notify the  Administrative  Agent and the Banks in writing of any
litigation,  legal proceeding or dispute  (including,  without  limitation,  any
Environmental  Proceeding),  other  than  disputes  in the  ordinary  course  of
business  or,  whether  or not in the  ordinary  course of  business,  involving
amounts in excess of One Million ($1,000,000)  Dollars,  affecting the Borrower,
any  Subsidiary  or any  Eligible  Business  whether  or not  fully  covered  by
insurance, and regardless of the subject matter thereof (excluding, however, any
actions relating to workers'  compensation  claims or negligence claims relating
to  use  of  motor  vehicles,   if  fully  covered  by  insurance,   subject  to
deductibles).

     Section  6.8.   Insurance.
                     ---------

     (a) (i) Maintain with  responsible  insurance  companies  such insurance on
such of its properties, in such amounts and against such risks as is customarily
maintained by similar  businesses;  (ii) file with the Administrative  Agent and
each of the Banks upon its  request a  detailed  list of the  insurance  then in
effect,  stating the names of the insurance companies,  the amounts and rates of
the insurance,  the dates of the expiration thereof and the properties and risks
covered thereby; and (iii) within ten (10) days after notice in writing from the
Administrative  Agent or any of the Banks,  obtain such additional  insurance as
the Administrative Agent or any Bank may reasonably request; provided, that, the
Borrower may maintain  self-insurance  consistent  with its past  practices  and
policies; and
<PAGE>
     (b) Carry all insurance available through the PBGC or any private insurance
companies covering its obligations to the PBGC. Section

     6.9. Financial Covenants.
          -------------------

     Have or maintain, on a consolidated basis:

     (a) As of the end of each  fiscal  quarter,  a Quick Ratio of not less than
1.10 to 1.00.

     (b) As of the end of each fiscal quarter,  on a rolling four quarter basis,
a Funded  Debt to Cash Flow Ratio for the most  recently  completed  four fiscal
quarters at not more than 4.00 to 1.00.

     (c) As of the end of each  fiscal  quarter,  a ratio of (i)  Unsubordinated
Liabilities of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries to (ii) the sum of Tangible Net
Worth plus  Subordinated  Debt of the Borrower and its  Subsidiaries at not more
than 2.00 to 1.00.

     (d) A Domestic Funded Debt Coverage Ratio of not more than (i) 4.50 to 1.00
as of the end of each fiscal quarter ending during the period from June 30, 1999
through and including  December 31, 1999, on a rolling four quarter  basis,  and
(ii) 4.00 to 1.00 as of the end of each fiscal quarter ending after December 31,
1999, on a rolling four quarter basis.

     (e) As of the end of each fiscal quarter,  on a rolling four quarter basis,
a Domestic Debt Service Coverage Ratio of not less than 2.50 to 1.00. Section


          6.10. Notice of Certain Events.
                ------------------------

     (a) Promptly  notify the  Administrative  Agent and the Banks in writing of
the occurrence of any "Reportable  Event",  as defined in Section 4043 of ERISA,
if a notice of such Reportable  Event is required under ERISA to be delivered to
the  PBGC  within  30  days  after  the  occurrence  thereof,  together  with  a
description of such Reportable  Event and a statement of the action the Borrower
or any ERISA  Affiliate  intends to take with respect  thereto,  together with a
copy of the notice thereof given to the PBGC.

     (b) Promptly  notify the  Administrative  Agent and the Banks in writing of
the  receipt  by the  Borrower  or  any  ERISA  Affiliate  of an  assessment  of
withdrawal  liability in connection  with a complete or partial  withdrawal with
respect to any  Multiemployer  Plan,  which liability of the Borrower and/or any
ERISA Affiliate may exceed  $1,000,000 in aggregate  amount,  and a statement of
the action that the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate intends to take with respect
thereto.
<PAGE>
     (c) Promptly  notify the  Administrative  Agent and the Banks in writing if
the  Borrower or any  Subsidiary  receives:  (i) any notice of any  violation or
administrative  or judicial  complaint or order having been filed or about to be
filed  against  the  Borrower  or such  subsidiary  alleging  violations  of any
Environmental Law and Regulation which could reasonably be expected to result in
liability to the Borrower or any subsidiary in excess of $1,000,000, or (ii) any
notice from any governmental body or any other Person alleging that the Borrower
or such Subsidiary is or may be subject to any Environmental Liability in excess
of $1,000,000;  and promptly upon receipt thereof, provide the Banks with a copy
of such  notice  together  with a statement  of the action the  Borrower or such
Subsidiary intends to take with respect thereto.

     Section 6.11. Comply with ERISA.
                   -----------------

     Materially comply with all applicable  provisions of ERISA and the Code now
or hereafter in effect.

     Section 6.12. Environmental  Compliance.
                   -------------------------

     Operate  all  property  owned  or  leased  by it such  that no  obligation,
including a clean-up  obligation,  shall arise under any  Environmental  Law and
Regulation,  which  obligation  would  constitute  a Lien on any property of the
Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries;  provided,  however, that in the event that
any such  claim is made or any such  obligation  arises,  the  Borrower  or such
Subsidiary shall, at its own cost and expense:

     (a) provide  the  Administrative  Agent and the Banks with  prompt  written
notice with  respect to any suit or claim  initiated or  threatened  against the
Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries involving liability in excess of $1,000,000;
and

     (b) either:  (i)  immediately  satisfy  such claim or  obligation;  or (ii)
contest such claim by appropriate  proceedings and upon final judgment  (subject
to no further  appeal)  immediately  satisfy such judgment;  provided,  however,
that, in all such cases,  the Borrower shall file a bond when necessary to avoid
the  creation  of a Lien  against  any  of  its  or  any  of  its  Subsidiaries'
properties;  and provided,  further,  that the Borrower shall indemnify and hold
harmless   the   Administrative   Agent  and  the  Banks  from  any   liability,
responsibility or obligation in respect thereof or in respect of any clean-up or
any other  liability,  as successor,  secured party or otherwise for any reason,
including, without limitation the enforcement of the Administrative Agent and/or
the Banks' rights under any Loan Document or by operation of law.

     Section  6.13.  Year 2000 Issue.
                     ---------------

     Take, and cause each of its Principal  Subsidiaries  to take, all necessary
action  to  complete  in  all  material   respects  by  October  31,  1999,  the
reprogramming of computer software,  hardware and firmware systems and equipment
containing  embedded microchips owned or operated by or for the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries or used or relied upon in the conduct of their business  (including
systems  and  equipment  supplied  by others or with which  such  systems of the
Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries  interface) required as a result of the Year
<PAGE>
2000 Issue to permit the proper  functioning of such computer  systems and other
equipment and the testing of such systems and equipment, as so reprogrammed.  At
the request of the Administrative Agent or any Bank, the Borrower shall provide,
and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to provide, to the Administrative Agent
and  each  Bank  reasonable  assurance  of its  compliance  with  the  preceding
sentence.

     Section 6.14.  Projections.
                    -----------

     Take all necessary  action to ensure that the  Projections  when  delivered
reflect as of the date  thereof the  Borrower's  good faith  projections,  after
reasonable analysis, of the matters set forth therein.

     Article 7  Negative  Covenants.
                -------------------

     While the Commitments are  outstanding,  and, in the event any Loan remains
outstanding,  so long as the  Borrower  is  indebted  to the  Banks  under  this
Agreement,  and  until  payment  in full of the  Notes  and  full  and  complete
performance  of all of its other  obligations  arising  hereunder,  the Borrower
shall not and shall not permit any of its  Subsidiaries to do or agree to do, or
permit to be done, any of the following:

     Section 7.1. Indebtedness.
                  ------------

     Create,  incur,  permit to exist or have outstanding any Indebtedness  that
would violate the terms of this Agreement.

     Section 7.2.  Liens.
                   -----

     Create,  or assume or permit to exist, any Lien on any of the properties or
assets of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries whether now owned or hereafter
acquired, except:

     (a) Permitted Liens;

     (b) Liens in favor of the Banks under the Loan Documents;

     (c)  Purchase  money  mortgages  or security  interests,  conditional  sale
arrangements and other similar security  interests,  on property acquired by the
Borrower or any Subsidiary  (hereinafter referred to individually as a "Purchase
Money Security Interest") with the proceeds of Indebtedness;  provided, however,
that:
<PAGE>
     (i) The  transaction  in which any  Purchase  Money  Security  Interest  is
proposed to be created is not then prohibited by this Agreement;

     (ii) Any Purchase Money Security Interest shall attach only to the property
or asset acquired in such transaction and shall not extend to or cover any other
assets or properties of the Borrower or, as the case may be, a Subsidiary;

     (iii) The  Indebtedness  secured or covered by any Purchase  Money Security
Interest is secured solely by such Purchase  Money  Security  Interest and shall
not exceed the cost of the property or asset acquired; and


     (iv) Such Indebtedness may be refinanced provided that the principal amount
of such outstanding Indebtedness is not increased;

     (d) The  interests of the lessor under any  Capitalized  Lease as permitted
hereunder;

     (e) Liens on  specifically  identified  inventory  and accounts  receivable
covered by bankers acceptances  resulting from import letters of credit which do
not cover any assets other than those financed with such bankers acceptances;

     (f) Liens securing  Indebtedness  permitted to exist in accordance with the
terms of Section 7.4 hereof in  connection  with a Permitted  Acquisition  which
Liens are of the type otherwise permitted under subsections 7.2(a), (c), (d) and
(e) hereof,  provided that (i) such Liens were  existing  prior to the Permitted
Acquisition in which such  Indebtedness  was assumed or acquired and not created
in contemplation of such Permitted  Acquisition,  and (ii) such Liens shall only
attach  to or  encumber  the  property  and  assets  acquired  in the  Permitted
Acquisition  in which such  Indebtedness  was assumed or acquired  and shall not
attach to or  encumber  any other  property  or  assets of the  Borrower  or any
subsidiary (including, without limitation, any Eligible Business);

     (g) As set forth on Exhibit D hereto;

     (h) Liens on the properties or assets of Finotech securing  Indebtedness of
Finotech  not  in  excess  of an  aggregate  of  $32,000,000  at  any  one  time
outstanding  and liens on the  properties or assets of Bohme not in excess of an
aggregate of $35,000,000 at any one time outstanding; and

     (i) Liens on the properties or assets of Clopay Service or any subsidiaries
of Clopay Service  securing  Indebtedness of Clopay Service and any subsidiaries
of Clopay  Service not in excess of any  aggregate of $5,000,000 at any one time
outstanding.
<PAGE>
     Section 7.3. Guaranties.
                  ----------

     Assume, endorse, be or become liable for, or guarantee, (a) the obligations
of any Person (except by the  endorsement of negotiable  instruments for deposit
or collection in the ordinary course of business), or (b) any Limited Contingent
Obligations, except (i) as set forth on Exhibit K hereto, (ii) guarantees of the
Borrower and its Subsidiaries not in excess of an aggregate of $5,000,000 at any
one time  outstanding,  (iii)  guarantees  by the Borrower or any  Subsidiary of
obligations  of the  Subsidiaries;  provided,  that the Borrower or any Domestic
Loan Party may guarantee the  Indebtedness  of any Foreign Loan Party as long as
the aggregate  amount of  Indebtedness  which is so  guaranteed  does not in the
aggregate at any one time  outstanding  exceed the sum of  $20,000,000  plus the
aggregate  amount of such  guaranteed  Indebtedness  outstanding  as of June 30,
1999,  (iv)  guarantees by a Subsidiary  of  obligations  of the Borrower  under
leases  for real or  personal  property,  provided,  that such  Subsidiary  will
utilize  all or a portion of such  property,  and (v) other  Limited  Contingent
Obligations  not  described  in the  preceding  clauses (i) through  (iv) of the
Borrower and the Subsidiaries not in excess of an aggregate amount of 20% of the
consolidated  Tangible  Net  Worth  of the  Borrower  and its  Subsidiaries  (as
computed  at any time as  shown  on the  Borrower's  Financial  Statements  most
recently  delivered to the Banks) at any one time outstanding.  For the purposes
hereof, the term "guarantee" shall include any agreement, whether such agreement
is on a contingency or otherwise,  to purchase,  repurchase or otherwise acquire
Indebtedness  of any other Person,  or to purchase,  sell or lease, as lessee or
lessor,  property or  services,  in any such case  primarily  for the purpose of
enabling another person to make payment of Indebtedness,  or to make any payment
(whether as an advance, capital contribution,  purchase of an equity interest or
otherwise)  to assure a minimum  equity,  asset base,  working  capital or other
balance sheet or financial  condition,  in connection  with the  Indebtedness of
another Person,  or to supply funds to or in any manner invest in another Person
in connection with such Person's Indebtedness.

     Section 7.4.   Mergers,  Acquisitions.
                    ----------------------

     Merge or  consolidate  with any Person  (whether or not the Borrower or any
Subsidiary is the surviving entity),  or acquire all or substantially all of the
assets or any of the capital stock of any Person;  provided,  however,  that (i)
any Subsidiary may merge with and into any other  Subsidiary or the Borrower (so
long as the Borrower or a wholly-owned  Subsidiary is the surviving  entity) and
(ii) the Borrower or any Subsidiary may make Permitted Acquisitions.


     Section  7.5.  Redemptions;  Distributions.
                    ---------------------------

     Upon the  occurrence  and during the  continuance  of a Default or Event of
Default, or if a Default or Event of Default would be caused thereby:

     (a) Purchase,  redeem, retire or otherwise acquire, directly or indirectly,
or make any sinking  fund  payments  with respect to, any shares of any class of
stock of the Borrower now or hereafter  outstanding or set apart any sum for any
such purpose; or
<PAGE>
     (b) Declare or pay any  dividends or make any  distribution  of any kind on
the  Borrower's  outstanding  stock,  or set aside any sum for any such purpose,
except that the  Borrower  may  declare or pay any  dividend  payable  solely in
shares of its capital stock.

     Section 7.6. Stock Issuance.
                  --------------

     Issue any  additional  shares or any right or option to acquire any shares,
or any  security  convertible  into  any  shares,  of the  capital  stock of any
Subsidiary,  except (a) in  connection  with  stock  dividends  permitted  under
subsection 7.5(b) hereof and (b) to the Borrower or a Subsidiary.

     Section 7.7.  Changes in Business and Sales or Pledges of Assets.
                   --------------------------------------------------

     Make any material change in its business on a consolidated basis, or in the
nature of its  operation,  or  liquidate  or  dissolve  itself  (or  suffer  any
liquidation  or  dissolution),  or convey,  sell,  lease,  assign,  transfer  or
otherwise  dispose  of any of its  property,  assets or  business  except in the
ordinary  course of  business  and for a fair  consideration  or  dispose of any
shares of stock (other than sales or issuances of the Borrower's treasury stock)
or any Indebtedness, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, or discount, sell,
pledge,  hypothecate or otherwise dispose of accounts receivable,  except in the
ordinary course of business and for fair consideration;  provided, however, that
the Borrower or any  Subsidiary may convey,  sell,  lease,  assign,  transfer or
otherwise  dispose of (a) its property and assets the fair market value of which
does not exceed in the  aggregate  in any fiscal year three  percent (3%) of the
consolidated  assets of the Borrower and its  Subsidiaries  as of the end of the
immediately preceding fiscal year for fair consideration,  (b) the capital stock
of any Subsidiary (i) the net revenues of which do not exceed three percent (3%)
of the  consolidated  net revenues of the Borrower and its  subsidiaries or (ii)
the assets of which do not exceed three percent (3%) of the consolidated  assets
of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries;  provided,  however,  that in no event may
the  Borrower  or any  subsidiary  convey,  sell,  lease,  assign,  transfer  or
otherwise  dispose of any capital stock that is at any time pledged to the Banks
pursuant  to the  Security  Documents  and (c) all or any portion of the current
property and assets of Lightron, Standard-Keil and Western Synthetic.

     Section 7.8. Investments.
                  -----------

     Make, or suffer to exist, any Investment in any Person, including,  without
limitation,  any shareholder,  director,  officer or employee of the Borrower or
any of the  Subsidiaries,  except  Investments  which  do not in the  aggregate,
exceed $1,000,000 and:
<PAGE>
     (a)  Investments  in:

     (i) obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States of America;

     (ii) certificates of deposit,  bankers  acceptances and other "money market
instruments" issued by any bank or trust company organized under the laws of the
United States of America or any State thereof and having  capital and surplus in
an aggregate amount of not less than $100,000,000;

     (iii) open market commercial paper bearing the highest credit rating issued
by Standard & Poor's  Corporation  or by another  nationally  recognized  credit
rating agency;

     (iv)  repurchase  agreements  entered  into with any bank or trust  company
organized  under the laws of the United  States of America or any State  thereof
and  having  capital  and  surplus  in an  aggregate  amount  of not  less  than
$100,000,000 relating to United States of America government obligations;

     (v) shares of "money market funds", each having net assets of not less than
$100,000,000; and

     (vi)  corporate  bonds  rated  at  least AA or the  equivalent  thereof  by
Standard  &  Poor's  Corporation  or Aa or the  equivalent  thereof  by  Moody's
Investors Service, Inc.;

in each case  maturing  or being due or  payable  in full not more than 180 days
after the Borrower's acquisition thereof;

     (b)  Investments by the Borrower or any  Subsidiary in entities  related to
the business of the  Borrower or any  Subsidiary  in an aggregate  amount not to
exceed $5,000,000;

     (c)  Investments,  other than  guarantees  permitted by Section 7.3, by the
Borrower or any Subsidiary in any  majority-owned  Subsidiary of the Borrower or
any Subsidiary;  provided, that the Borrower or any Domestic Loan Party may make
an Investment in any Foreign Loan Party as long as the aggregate  amount of such
Investments does not in the aggregate at any one time outstanding exceed the sum
of  $10,000,000   plus  the  aggregate  amount  of  such  Investments  that  are
outstanding as of June 30, 1999; and

     (d) Permitted  Acquisitions  by the Borrower or any subsidiary  pursuant to
Section 7.4 hereof.
<PAGE>
     Section 7.9.  Fiscal Year.
                   -----------

     Change  its  fiscal  year.

     Section  7.10.  ERISA Obligations.
                     -----------------

     The Borrower will not:

     (a) permit the occurrence of any Termination  Event, or the occurrence of a
termination or partial  termination of a Defined  Contribution  Plan which would
have a material adverse effect on the Borrower; or

     (b) permit any  accumulated  deficiency (as defined in Section 302 of ERISA
and Section 412 of the Code) in excess of $1,000,000 in the aggregate  liability
to the Borrower  and its ERISA  Affiliates  with  respect to all Pension  Plans,
whether or not waived; or

     (c) engage, or permit the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate to engage, in any
prohibited  transaction  under  Section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code
for which a civil penalty  pursuant to Section 502(i) of ERISA or a tax pursuant
to Section  4975 of the Code which would have a material  adverse  effect on the
Borrower; or

     (d) engage or permit the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate to engage,  in any
breach of  fiduciary  duty under Part 4 of Title I of ERISA for which 20 percent
of the applicable recovery amount under Section 502(l) of ERISA which would have
a material adverse effect on the Borrower; or

     (e) fail, or permit any ERISA Affiliate to fail, to establish, maintain and
operate each Employee  Benefit Plan in compliance in all material  respects with
the  provisions  of  ERISA,  the  Code  and all  other  applicable  laws and the
regulations and interpretations thereof.

     Section  7.11.  Reserved.
                     --------

     Section  7.12. Transactions with Affiliates.
                    ----------------------------

     Except as expressly  permitted by this  Agreement,  directly or indirectly:
(a) make any Investment in an Affiliate;  (b) transfer,  sell, lease,  assign or
otherwise  dispose of any assets to an Affiliate;  (c) merge into or consolidate
with or purchase  or acquire  assets  from an  Affiliate;  or (d) enter into any
other  transaction  directly  or  indirectly  with  or for  the  benefit  of any
Affiliate  (including,   without  limitation,   guarantees  and  assumptions  of
obligations  of an  Affiliate)  ;  provided,  however,  that:  (i)  payments  on
Investments  expressly  permitted  by Section  7.8 hereof may be made,  (ii) any
Affiliate  who is a natural  person may serve as an  employee or director of the
<PAGE>
Borrower and receive reasonable  compensation for his services in such capacity,
(iii) the Borrower may enter into any  transaction  with an Affiliate  providing
for the  leasing of  property,  the  rendering  or receipt  of  services  or the
purchase or sale of product,  inventory and other assets in the ordinary  course
of business if the monetary or business consideration arising therefrom would be
substantially  as  advantageous  to the  Borrower  as the  monetary  or business
consideration  that would obtain in a comparable arm's length transaction with a
Person not an Affiliate and (iv) the Borrower or any  Subsidiary  may make loans
to Persons who are  stockholders,  officers or  directors  of the  Borrower or a
Subsidiary which do not, in the aggregate,  exceed $250,000;  provided, however,
that for  purposes  of this  Section  7.12 an  Affiliate  shall not be deemed to
include a Subsidiary of the Borrower.

Section  7.13. Hazardous Material.
               ------------------

     (a)  Cause or  permit  (i) any  "Hazardous  Material"  (as  defined  in any
applicable  Environmental  Laws and Regulations) to be placed,  held, located or
disposed  of, on,  under or at any real  property  used in  connection  with the
operation  of the  business of the  Borrower or any of its  Subsidiaries  ("Real
Property") or any part thereof,  except for such Hazardous  Materials  which are
necessary for the Borrower's  operation of its business  thereon and which shall
be used, stored and disposed of in compliance with all applicable  Environmental
Laws and  Regulations  or (ii) such Real Property or any part thereof to be used
as a collection, storage or dump site for any Hazardous Material.

     (b) The Borrower and each Subsidiary acknowledges and agrees that the Banks
shall have no liability or responsibility for either:

     (i) damage,  loss, or injury to human health,  the  environment  or natural
resources  caused by the presence,  disposal,  release or threatened  release of
Hazardous Materials on any part of such real property;

     or  (ii)   abatement   and/or   clean-up   required  under  any  applicable
Environmental Laws and Regulations for a release, threatened release or disposal
of any  Hazardous  Materials  located  at such  real  property  or used by or in
connection  with  the  Borrower's  or  any  Subsidiary's  or any  such  tenant's
business.

     Section 7.14. Regulation U.
                   ------------

     Not use any part of the proceeds  received by the  Borrower  from the Loans
directly or  indirectly  for: (a) any purpose other than as set forth in Section
2.9 hereof, or (b) the purpose of purchasing or carrying, or for payment in full
or in part of  Indebtedness  that was incurred for the purposes of purchasing or
carrying,  any "margin stock",  as such term is defined in 221.3 of Regulation U
of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, 12 C.F.R.,  Chapter II,
Part 221, other than purchases made in compliance with Regulation U.
<PAGE>
     Section  7.15.   Limitations   on Restrictions  on  Upstreaming  of Funds
                      --------------------------------------------------------

     No Loan Party shall enter into any agreement  which prohibits or limits the
ability of any  Subsidiary  to pay  dividends or otherwise  advance funds to the
Borrower  with respect to any fiscal year in an aggregate  amount at least equal
to the sum of (i) the amount of Federal, state and local income taxes payable by
the Borrower  with respect to the income of such  Subsidiary  (as  determined in
accordance with generally accepted accounting  principles  consistently applied)
for such  fiscal  year and (ii) 50% of the net  income  of such  Subsidiary  (as
determined  in  accordance  with  generally   accepted   accounting   principles
consistently applied) for such fiscal year.

      Section 7.16. Derivative Protection  Arrangements
                    -----------------------------------

     No Loan Party shall enter into any Derivative Protection Arrangement unless
such Loan Party has  reasonably  determined  that entering into such  Derivative
Protection  Arrangement  is in the best  interests of such Loan Party and is not
for speculative purposes.

     Article 8 Events of Default.
               -----------------

     If any one or more of the  following  events  ("Events of  Default")  shall
occur and be continuing,  the Commitments  shall terminate and the entire unpaid
balance of the principal of and interest on the Notes  outstanding and all other
obligations and Indebtedness of the Borrower to each Bank arising  hereunder and
under the other Loan  Documents  shall  immediately  become due and payable upon
written notice to that effect given to the Borrower by the Administrative  Agent
upon  the  direction  of the  Required  Banks  (except  that in the  case of the
occurrence of any Event of Default described in Section 8.6 no such notice shall
be required),  without presentment or demand for payment, notice of non-payment,
protest  or  further  notice or demand of any kind,  all of which are  expressly
waived by the Borrower:

     Section 8.1.  Payments.
                   --------

     Failure to make (i) any payment or mandatory  prepayment of principal under
any Note when due or (ii) any payment or mandatory  prepayment  of interest upon
any Note or to make any  payment  of any Fee not later  than five (5) days after
such payment or prepayment is due; or

     Section 8.2.  Certain  Covenants.
                   ------------------

     Failure  to  perform  or  observe  any of the  agreements  of the  Borrower
contained in Section 6.9 or Article 7 hereof; or
<PAGE>
      Section  8.3.  Other  Covenants.
                     ----------------

     Failure by the Borrower or any  Subsidiary  to perform or observe any other
term,  condition  or  covenant  of this  Agreement  or of any of the other  Loan
Documents to which it is a party,  which shall remain unremedied for a period of
15 days after notice  thereof shall have been given to the Borrower by any Bank;
provided, that, a failure to perform under Section 6.13 shall not be an Event of
Default unless such failure to perform such covenant  results or would result in
a Material Adverse Effect; or

     Section 8.4. Other Defaults.
                  --------------

     (a)  Failure to perform or observe any term,  condition  or covenant of any
bond, note, debenture,  loan agreement,  indenture,  guaranty,  trust agreement,
mortgage or similar  instrument  to which the  Borrower or any  Subsidiary  is a
party or by which it is bound,  or by which any of its  properties or assets may
be affected (a "Debt  Instrument"),  so that, as a result of any such failure to
perform,  the  Indebtedness  included  therein or secured or covered thereby has
been declared due and payable prior to the date on which such Indebtedness would
otherwise become due and payable; or

     (b) Any event or condition  referred to in any Debt Instrument  shall occur
or fail to  occur,  so that,  as a result  thereof,  the  Indebtedness  included
therein or secured or covered thereby has been declared due and payable prior to
the date on which such Indebtedness would otherwise become due and payable; or

     (c) Failure to pay any Indebtedness for borrowed money when due;

provided,  however,  that  the  provisions  of this  Section  8.4  shall  not be
applicable  to any Debt  Instrument  that on the date  this  Section  8.4  would
otherwise  be  applicable  thereto,  relates to or evidences  Indebtedness  in a
principal amount of less than $1,000,000; or

     Section 8.5.   Representations and Warranties.
                    ------------------------------

     Any representation or warranty made in writing to the Administrative  Agent
or the Banks in any of the Loan  Documents,  or any  certificate,  statement  or
report made or  delivered in  compliance  with this  Agreement,  shall have been
false or misleading in any material respect when made or delivered; or

     Section  8.6.  Bankruptcy.
                    ----------

     (a) The Borrower or any Subsidiary shall make an assignment for the benefit
of creditors, file a petition in bankruptcy, be adjudicated insolvent,  petition
or apply to any tribunal for the  appointment of a receiver,  custodian,  or any
trustee  for it or a  substantial  part of its  assets,  or shall  commence  any
proceeding under any bankruptcy,  reorganization,  arrangement,  readjustment of
debt, dissolution or liquidation law or statute of any jurisdiction, whether now
or  hereafter  in  effect,  or the  Borrower  or any  Subsidiary  shall take any
corporate action to authorize any of the foregoing actions;  or there shall have
<PAGE>
been filed any such petition or application,  or any such proceeding  shall have
been commenced against it, that remains  undismissed for a period of thirty (30)
days or more;  or any order for relief shall be entered in any such  proceeding;
or the  Borrower or any  Subsidiary  by any act or omission  shall  indicate its
consent to,  approval of or  acquiescence  in any such petition,  application or
proceeding or the appointment of a custodian,  receiver or any trustee for it or
any  substantial   part  of  any  of  its   properties,   or  shall  suffer  any
custodianship, receivership or trusteeship to continue undischarged for a period
of thirty (30) days or more; or

     (b) The Borrower or any  Subsidiary  shall  generally  not pay its debts as
such debts become due; or

     (c) The  Borrower  or any  Subsidiary  shall have  concealed,  removed,  or
permitted to be concealed or removed,  any part of its property,  with intent to
hinder,  delay or defraud  its  creditors  or any of them or made or  suffered a
transfer of any of its property  that may be  fraudulent  under any  bankruptcy,
fraudulent  conveyance  or similar  law; or shall have made any  transfer of its
property  to or for the  benefit  of a creditor  at a time when other  creditors
similarly  situated  have not been paid;  or shall have  suffered or  permitted,
while insolvent,  any creditor to obtain a Lien upon any of its property through
legal  proceedings or distraint that is not vacated within thirty (30) days from
the date thereof; or

     Section  8.7.  Judgments.
                    ---------

     Any judgment against the Borrower or any Subsidiary or any attachment, levy
or  execution  against  any of their  properties  for any  amount  in  excess of
$500,000  shall remain  unpaid,  unstayed on appeal,  undischarged,  unbonded or
undismissed for a period of thirty (30) days or more; or

     Section  8.8.  ERISA.
                    -----

     (a) The  termination of any Pension Plan or the  institution by the PBGC of
proceedings for the involuntary termination of any Pension Plan, in either case,
by reason of, or that results in, a material  "accumulated  funding  deficiency"
with respect to the Borrower and its ERISA  Affiliates,  individually  or in the
aggregate, under Section 412 of the Code; or

     (b) Failure by the Borrower to make required  contributions,  in accordance
with the applicable  provisions of ERISA, to each of the Pension Plans hereafter
established or assumed by it; or
<PAGE>
     Section 8.9.   Liens.
                    -----

     Any of the Liens  created and granted to the  Administrative  Agent for the
ratable  benefit  of the Banks  under the  Security  Documents  shall fail to be
valid,  first,  perfected  Liens,  subject to no prior or equal Lien,  except as
permitted by Section 7.2 hereof; or


     Section 8.10. Change of Control.
                   -----------------

     A Change of Control shall occur.

Upon any Event of Default, the Commitments shall terminate and the entire unpaid
balance of the principal of and interest on the Notes  outstanding and all other
obligations and Indebtedness of the Borrower to each Agent and each Bank arising
hereunder and under the other Loan Documents  shall  immediately  become due and
payable  upon  written  notice  to that  effect  given  to the  Borrower  by the
Administrative Agent upon consent of the Required Banks (except that in the case
of the  occurrence  of any Event of Default  described  in  Section  8.6 no such
notice shall be  required)  and in any such event the  Administrative  Agent (i)
upon the direction of the Required Banks, shall proceed to enforce the rights of
the  holders  of the  Notes  by suit  in  equity,  action  at law  and/or  other
appropriate proceedings,  whether for payment or the specific performance of any
covenant or agreement  contained in the Loan Documents and (ii) may exercise any
and all rights and  remedies  provided to the  Administrative  Agent by the Loan
Documents.  Except as otherwise  expressly  provided in the Loan Documents,  the
Borrower expressly waives presentment,  demand,  notice of non-payment,  protest
and any similar notice.

     Article 9 Miscellaneous Provisions.
               ------------------------

     Section 9.1. Fees and Expenses, Indemnity.
                  ----------------------------

     The  Borrower  will  on  demand  pay:  (a)  all  reasonable  costs  of  the
Administrative  Agent in  preparing  the Loan  Documents  and (b) all  costs and
expenses of the issuance of the Notes and of the Borrower's  performance and the
Subsidiaries'  performance of and compliance  with all agreements and conditions
contained  herein  on its part to be  performed  or  complied  with  (including,
without limitation, all costs of filing or recording any assignments, mortgages,
financing  statements  and other  documents),  and (c) the fees and expenses and
disbursements of special counsel to the Administrative  Agent in connection with
the preparation, execution and delivery, review, administration,  interpretation
and enforcement of the Loan  Documents,  the  consummation  of the  transactions
contemplated by all such documents, the negotiation,  preparation, execution and
delivery of any amendment,  modification  or supplement of or to, or any consent
or waiver under, any such document (or any such instrument which is proposed but
not executed and  delivered)  and with any claim or action  threatened,  made or
brought against any Bank or the Administrative  Agent arising out of or relating
to any extent to the Loan Documents, or the transactions  contemplated hereby or
thereby and (d) the fees and expenses and  disbursements of counsel to the Banks
<PAGE>
and of examiners and consultants of each Bank in connection with  enforcement of
the Loan  Documents  and with any claim or action  threatened,  made or  brought
against any Bank arising out of or relating to any extent to the Loan Documents,
or the transactions  contemplated hereby or thereby.  In addition,  the Borrower
will on demand pay all costs and expenses (including,  without limitation,  fees
and disbursements of counsel) suffered or incurred by the  Administrative  Agent
and/or the Banks in connection  with its  enforcement of the payment of any Note
or any sum due to the  Administrative  Agent  and/or  the  Banks  under the Loan
Documents,  as the case may be,  or any of  Administrative  Agent's  and/or  the
Banks' other rights hereunder or thereunder.  In addition to the foregoing,  the
Borrower  shall  indemnify  the  Administrative  Agent and each Bank and each of
their  respective  directors,   officers,   employees,   attorneys,  agents  and
Affiliates against, and hold each of them harmless from, any loss,  liabilities,
damages,  claims, costs and expenses (including  reasonable  attorneys' fees and
disbursements)  suffered or incurred  by any of them  arising out of,  resulting
from or in any manner connected with, the execution, delivery and performance of
each of the Loan Documents, the Loans and any and all transactions related to or
consummated in connection with the Loans, including, without limitation, losses,
liabilities,  damages,  claims,  costs and expenses  suffered or incurred by the
Administrative  Agent,  such  Bank  and/or  any of their  respective  directors,
officers,  employees,  attorneys or Affiliates in investigating,  preparing for,
defending  against,  or providing  evidence,  producing  documents or taking any
other   action  in  respect  of  any   commenced   or   threatened   litigation,
administrative  proceeding or investigation  under any federal securities law or
any other statute of any  jurisdiction,  or any regulation,  or at common law or
otherwise.  The  indemnity  set forth  herein  shall be in addition to any other
obligations or liabilities  of the Borrower to the  Administrative  Agent and/or
each such Bank  hereunder  or at common law or  otherwise.  All fees,  expenses,
costs,  charges and other  amounts  payable by the Borrower  hereunder  shall be
deemed to be Obligations, and the Administrative Agent and each Bank may, in its
sole  discretion,  exercise  its rights under  Section 9.5 of this  Agreement in
respect of any or all thereof.  The provisions of this Section 9.1 shall survive
the payment of the Notes and the termination of this Agreement.


     Section 9.2. Taxes.
                  -----

     If,  under  any law in  effect  on the  date  of the  closing  of any  Loan
hereunder,  or under any retroactive  provision of any law subsequently enacted,
it shall be  determined  that any  Federal,  state or local  tax is  payable  in
respect  of the  issuance  of any  Note,  or in  connection  with the  filing or
<PAGE>
recording  of  any  assignments,   mortgages,  financing  statements,  or  other
documents (whether measured by the amount of Indebtedness  secured or otherwise)
as contemplated  by this Agreement,  then the Borrower will pay any such tax and
all  interest  and  penalties,  if any,  and will  indemnify  each  Bank and the
Administrative  Agent  against and save each of them  harmless  from any loss or
damage  resulting  from or arising out of the  nonpayment or delay in payment of
any such tax. If any such tax or taxes  shall be assessed or levied  against any
Bank or the Administrative  Agent, such Bank or the Administrative Agent, as the
case may be,  may  notify  the  Borrower  and make  immediate  payment  thereof,
together with interest or penalties in connection therewith, and shall thereupon
be entitled  to and shall  receive  immediate  reimbursement  therefor  from the
Borrower.  Notwithstanding any other provision contained in this Agreement,  the
covenants  and  agreements  of the  Borrower in this  Section 9.2 shall  survive
payment of the Notes and the termination of this Agreement.

     Section 9.3. Payments.
                  --------


     As set forth in Article 2 hereof,  all  payments by the Borrower on account
of principal, interest, fees and other charges (including any indemnities) shall
be made to the  Administrative  Agent for the account of the  applicable  Credit
Party at the Payment Office,  in lawful money of the United States of America in
immediately available funds, by wire transfer or otherwise, not later than 11:00
A.M.  New York City time on the date such  payment is due. Any such payment made
on such date but after such time shall,  if the amount paid bears  interest,  be
deemed  to have been made on,  and  interest  shall  continue  to accrue  and be
payable  thereon  until,  the next  succeeding  Business  Day. If any payment of
principal  or  interest  becomes  due on a day other than a Business  Day,  such
payment may be made on the next succeeding Business Day and such extension shall
be included in computing interest in connection with such payment.  All payments
hereunder and under the Notes shall be made without set-off or counterclaim  and
in such amounts as may be necessary in order that all such payments shall not be
less than the amounts  otherwise  specified to be paid under this  Agreement and
the Notes  (after  withholding  for or on account  of: (i) any present or future
taxes,  levies,  imposts,  duties or other  similar  charges of whatever  nature
imposed by any  government  or any  political  subdivision  or taxing  authority
thereof,  other than any tax (except those  referred to in clause (ii) below) on
or measured by the net income of the Bank or the  Administrative  Agent to which
any such payment is due pursuant to applicable  federal,  state and local income
tax laws, and (ii) deduction of amounts equal to the taxes on or measured by the
net income of such Bank or the Administrative  Agent payable by such Bank or the
Administrative  Agent with respect to the amount by which the payments  required
to be made under this sentence exceed the amounts otherwise specified to be paid
in this  Agreement  and the Notes).  Upon payment in full of any Note,  the Bank
holding such Note shall mark the Note "Paid" and return it to the Borrower.


     Section 9.4. Survival of Agreements and Representations; Construction.
                  --------------------------------------------------------

     All  agreements,  representations  and warranties made herein shall survive
the  delivery  of  this  Agreement  and the  Notes.  The  headings  used in this
Agreement  and the table of contents are for  convenience  only and shall not be
<PAGE>
deemed to constitute a part hereof.  All uses herein of the masculine  gender or
of singular or plural  terms shall be deemed to include  uses of the feminine or
neuter gender, or plural or singular terms, as the context may require.

     Section 9.5. Lien on and Set-off of Deposits.
                  -------------------------------

     As security for the due payment and performance of all the Obligations, the
Borrower hereby grants to each Bank and the  Administrative  Agent a Lien on any
and all  deposits or other sums at any time  credited by or due from any Bank or
the  Administrative  Agent  to the  Borrower,  whether  in  regular  or  special
depository accounts or otherwise,  and any and all monies,  securities and other
property of the Borrower,  and the proceeds  thereof,  now or hereafter  held or
received  by or in transit to any Bank or the  Administrative  Agent from or for
the Borrower, whether for safekeeping, custody, pledge, transmission, collection
or  otherwise,  and any  such  deposits,  sums,  monies,  securities  and  other
property, may at any time after the occurrence and during the continuance of any
Event  of  Default  be  set-off,  appropriated  and  applied  by any Bank or the
Administrative Agent against any of the obligations,  whether or not any of such
Obligations  is  then  due or is  secured  by any  collateral,  or,  if it is so
secured,  whether or not the collateral  held by any Bank or the  Administrative
Agent is considered to be adequate,  all as set forth in and pursuant to Section
2.16 hereof.


     Section 9.6. Modifications, Consents and Waivers; Entire  Agreement.
                  ------------------------------------------------------

     No modification, amendment or waiver of or with respect to any provision of
this  Agreement,  any Notes,  the Security  Documents,  or any of the other Loan
Documents and all other agreements, instruments and documents delivered pursuant
hereto or thereto,  nor consent to any departure by the Borrower from any of the
terms or conditions thereof,  shall in any event be effective unless it shall be
in  writing  and  signed  by  the  Required  Banks;   provided,   however,  that
notwithstanding the foregoing,  without the written consent of each Bank and the
Administrative Agent, in no event shall any amendment,  modification,  waiver or
consent:

     (a)  Be  effective  with  respect  to  Article  2 or  Article  3 (it  being
understood  that a waiver of any Default or Event of Default  under  Section 8.5
hereof  shall  not  constitute  an  amendment  or  modification  of any  Section
therein),  or Sections 8.1 or 9.6 hereof or the  definitions  in Article 1 which
are used in any of the foregoing;

     (b) Extend the final maturity of any Loan or Note (it being understood that
any waiver of the  application of any prepayment of or the method of application
of any  prepayment to the  amortization  of, the Loans shall not  constitute any
such extension) or reduce the principal  amount  thereof,  or reduce the rate or
extend the time of payment of interest or fees thereon;
<PAGE>
     (c) Reduce the percentage specified in the definition of Required Banks;

     (d) Increase the amount of the  Commitment of any Bank  hereunder (it being
understood that a waiver of any Default or Event of Default shall not constitute
a change in the terms of any Commitment of any Bank);

     (e) Extend the Commitment Termination Date;

     (f)  Release or permit the  release of any asset  pledged  under any of the
Security Documents; or

     (g) Consent to any assignment by the Borrower of the Obligations.  Any such
waiver or consent shall be effective  only in the specific  instance and for the
purpose  for which  given.  No consent to or demand on the  Borrower in any case
shall, of itself, entitle it to any other or further notice or demand in similar
or other  circumstances.  This Agreement and the other Loan Documents embody the
entire agreement and understanding among the Banks, the Administrative Agent and
the Borrower and supersede all prior agreements and  understandings  relating to
the subject matter hereof.

     Section 9.7. Remedies Cumulative.
                  -------------------

     Each and every  right  granted  to the Banks and the  Administrative  Agent
hereunder  or under any other  document  delivered  hereunder  or in  connection
herewith,  or  allowed  it by law or  equity,  shall  be  cumulative  and may be
exercised  from  time  to  time.  No  failure  on the  part  of any  Bank or the
Administrative  Agent to exercise,  and no delay in exercising,  any right shall
operate as a waiver  thereof,  nor shall any single or partial  exercise  of any
right preclude any other or future exercise thereof or the exercise of any other
right.  The due  payment and  performance  of the  obligations  shall be without
regard to any  counterclaim,  right of offset or any other claim whatsoever that
the Borrower may have against any Bank or the  Administrative  Agent and without
regard to any other  obligation  of any nature  whatsoever  that any Bank or the
Administrative  Agent  may have to the  Borrower,  and no such  counterclaim  or
offset  shall be asserted by the  Borrower  in any  action,  suit or  proceeding
instituted by any Bank or the Administrative Agent for payment or performance of
the obligations.

     Section 9.8. Further Assurances.
                  -----------------

     At any time and from  time to  time,  upon the  request  of any Bank or the
Administrative  Agent,  the Borrower shall execute,  deliver and  acknowledge or
cause to be executed,  delivered and  acknowledged,  such further  documents and
instruments and do such other acts and things as any Bank or the  Administrative
Agent may  reasonably  request  in order to fully  effect the  purposes  of this
Agreement,  the other Loan Documents and any other  agreements,  instruments and
documents delivered pursuant hereto or in connection with the Loans.
<PAGE>
     Section 9.9. Notices.
                  -------

     All notices,  requests,  reports and other communications  pursuant to this
Agreement shall be in writing, either by letter (delivered by hand or commercial
messenger  service or sent by certified mail, return receipt  requested,  except
for routine  reports  delivered in compliance with Article 5 hereof which may be
sent by  ordinary  first-class  mail) or  telegram  or  telecopy,  addressed  as
follows:

           (a) If to the Borrower:

               Griffon Corporation
               100 Jericho Quadrangle
               Jericho, New York 11753
               Attention:  Robert Balemian
               Telecopier No.: (516) 938-5644

               with a copy to:

               Blau, Kramer, Wactlar & Lieberman, P.C.
               100 Jericho Quadrangle
               Jericho, New York 11753
               Attention:  Edward I. Kramer
               Telecopier No.: (516) 822-4824

           (b) If to the Administrative Agent:

               Fleet Bank, National Association
               300 Broad Hollow Road
               Melville, New York 11747
               Attention:  Christopher J. Mendelsohn
                           Vice President
               Telecopier No.: (516) 547-7815

               with a copy (other than in the case of Borrowing Notices
               and reports and other documents delivered in compliance
               with Article 5 hereof) to:

               Emmet, Marvin & Martin, LLP
               120 Broadway
               New York, New York 10271
               Attention: Richard M. Skoller, Esq.
               Telecopier No.: (212) 238-3100
<PAGE>
           (c) If to the Documentation Agent:

               The Chase Manhattan Bank
               7600 Jericho Turnpike
               Suite 306
               Woodbury, NY 11797
               Attention:  Barbara G. Bertschi
                           Vice President
               Telecopier No.: (516) 364-3307

           (d) If to a Bank:

               To its respective address (telecopy number) set forth on its
               signature page to this Agreement.

Any  notice,  request or  communication  hereunder  shall be deemed to have been
given on the day on  which  it is  telecopied  to such  party at the  telecopier
number  referred  to above or  delivered  by hand or such  commercial  messenger
service to such party at its address  referred to above, or, if sent by mail, on
the third Business Day after the day deposited in the mail, postage prepaid,  or
in the case of  telegraphic  notice,  when  delivered to the telegraph  company,
addressed as aforesaid.  Any party may change the person,  address or telecopier
number to whom or which notices are to be given hereunder,  by notice duly given
hereunder;  provided, however, that any such notice shall be deemed to have been
given  hereunder  only  when  actually  received  by the  party  to  which it is
addressed.

     Section 9.10. Counterparts.
                   ------------

     This  Agreement may be signed in any number of  counterparts  with the same
effect as if the signatures thereto and hereto were upon the same instrument.

     Section 9.11. Severability.
                   ------------

     The  provisions  of this  Agreement  are  severable,  and if any  clause or
provision  hereof shall be held invalid or  unenforceable in whole or in part in
any  jurisdiction,  then such invalidity or  unenforceability  shall affect only
such clause or provision, or part thereof, in such jurisdiction and shall not in
any manner  affect such clause or  provision in any other  jurisdiction,  or any
other  clause or provision in this  Agreement in any  jurisdiction.  Each of the
covenants,  agreements and conditions contained in this Agreement is independent
and compliance by the Borrower with any of them shall not excuse  non-compliance
by the  Borrower  with  any  other.  All  covenants  hereunder  shall  be  given
independent  effect so that if a particular action or condition is not permitted
by any of such  covenants,  the fact that it would be  permitted by an exception
to, or be otherwise  within the limitations of, another covenant shall not avoid
the  occurrence  of a Default or an Event of Default if such  action is taken or
condition exists.
<PAGE>
     Section 9.12. Binding Effect; No Assignment or Delegation by Borrower.
                   -------------------------------------------------------

     This  Agreement  shall be  binding  upon and  inure to the  benefit  of the
Borrower  and  its   successors  and  to  the  benefit  of  the  Banks  and  the
Administrative Agent and their respective successors and assigns. The rights and
obligations  of the  Borrower  under this  Agreement  shall not be  assigned  or
delegated without the prior written consent of each Bank and the  Administrative
Agent, and any purported  assignment or delegation without such consent shall be
void.

     Section 9.13. Assignments and Participations by Banks.
                   ---------------------------------------

     (a) Each Bank may  assign to one or more banks or other  entities  all or a
portion of its rights and obligations under this Agreement  (including,  without
limitation,  all or a portion of its Commitment,  the Loans owing to it, and the
Note or Notes held by it);  provided,  however,  that: (i) each such  assignment
shall be of a constant,  and not a varying,  percentage  of all of the assigning
Bank's  rights  and  obligations  under this  Agreement,  (ii) the amount of the
Commitment of the assigning Bank being assigned pursuant to each such assignment
(determined as of the date of the Assignment and Acceptance with respect to such
assignment)  shall in no event be less than  $5,000,000 and shall be an integral
multiple of $500,000, (iii) each assignee shall agree in writing satisfactory in
form and  substance  to the  Administrative  Agent to be bound by the  terms and
conditions of this  Agreement,  (iv) each such  assignment  other than to a Bank
party hereto or a banking  Affiliate of such a Bank shall require the consent of
the Borrower (unless an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing in which
case such consent shall not be required),  and (v) each such assignment shall be
to  an  Eligible  Assignee.  Upon  such  execution,   delivery,  acceptance  and
recording,  from and after the effective date  specified in each  Assignment and
Acceptance,  which effective date shall be at least five (5) Business Days after
the execution thereof:  (x) the assignee thereunder shall be a party hereto and,
to the extent that rights and  obligations  hereunder  have been  assigned to it
pursuant to such Assignment and Acceptance, have the rights and obligations of a
Bank hereunder,  and (y) the Bank assignor  thereunder shall, to the extent that
rights and  obligations  hereunder  have been  assigned  by it  pursuant to such
Assignment  and  Acceptance,  relinquish  its  rights and be  released  from its
obligations  under  this  Agreement  (and,  in the  case  of an  Assignment  and
Acceptance  covering all or the remaining  portion of an assigning Bank's rights
and  obligations  under  this  Agreement,  such Bank  shall  cease to be a party
hereto).

     (b) By executing  and  delivering an Assignment  and  Acceptance,  the Bank
assignor  thereunder and the assignee  thereunder confirm to and agree with each
other and the other  parties  hereto as  follows:  (i) other than as provided in
such Assignment and Acceptance,  such assigning Bank makes no  representation or
warranty  and  assumes  no  responsibility   with  respect  to  any  statements,
warranties or  representations  made in or in connection  with this Agreement or
the execution, legality, validity, enforceability,  genuineness,  sufficiency or
value of this Agreement or any other instrument or document  furnished  pursuant
hereto; (ii) such assigning Bank makes no representation or warranty and assumes
no responsibility with respect to the financial condition of the Borrower or the
<PAGE>
performance or observance by the Borrower of any of its  obligations  under this
Agreement or any other instrument or document furnished  pursuant hereto;  (iii)
such assignee  confirms that it has received a copy of this Agreement,  together
with  copies  of  such  financial   statements  and  such  other  documents  and
information  as it has deemed  appropriate  to make its own credit  analysis and
decision to enter into such Assignment and Acceptance;  (iv) such assignee will,
independently   and  without   reliance   upon  such   assigning   Bank  or  the
Administrative  Agent  or any  other  Bank  and  based  on  such  documents  and
information as it shall deem  appropriate at the time,  continue to make its own
credit  decisions in taking or not taking action under this Agreement;  (v) such
assignee confirms that it is an Eligible Assignee; and (vi) such assignee agrees
that it will perform in accordance with their terms all of the obligations which
by the terms of this Agreement are required to be performed by it as a Bank.

     (c) Upon  its  receipt  of an  Assignment  and  Acceptance  executed  by an
assignee  representing that it is an Eligible  Assignee,  together with any Note
subject to such assignment, the assigning Bank shall: (i) accept such Assignment
and Acceptance, and (ii) give prompt notice thereof to the Administrative Agent,
the Borrower and each of the other Banks.  Within five  Business  Days after its
receipt of such notice,  the  Borrower,  at its own expense,  shall  execute and
deliver to the assignee Bank in exchange for the surrendered  Note a new Note to
the order of such Eligible Assignee in an amount equal to the Commitment assumed
by it pursuant to such  Assignment and Acceptance and, if the assigning Bank has
retained a Commitment  hereunder,  a new Note to the order of the assigning Bank
in an amount equal to the  Commitment  retained by it hereunder.  Such new Notes
shall be in an  aggregate  principal  amount  equal to the  aggregate  principal
amount  of such  surrendered  Note,  shall be dated the  effective  date of such
Assignment and Acceptance and shall  otherwise be in  substantially  the form of
Exhibit A-1 hereto.

     (d) Each  Bank may,  without  the prior  consent  of any other  Bank or the
Borrower, sell participations to one or more banks or other entities in all or a
portion of its rights and obligations under this Agreement  (including,  without
limitation,  all or a portion of its Commitment,  the Loans owing to it, and the
Note held by it);  provided,  however,  that: (i) such Bank's  obligations under
this Agreement (including,  without limitation,  its Commitment hereunder) shall
remain  unchanged,  (ii) such Bank shall remain solely  responsible to the other
parties hereto for the  performance of such  obligations,  (iii) such Bank shall
remain the holder of any such Note for all purposes of this  Agreement,  and the
Borrower and the other Bank shall continue to deal solely and directly with such
Bank in connection with such Bank's rights and obligations under this Agreement.
<PAGE>
     (e) Each Bank may, in connection  with any assignment or  participation  or
proposed assignment or participation  pursuant to this Section 9.13, disclose to
the assignee or participant or proposed assignee or participant, any information
relating to the Borrower furnished to such Bank by or on behalf of the Borrower;
provided  that,  prior to any such  disclosure,  the assignee or  participant or
proposed assignee or participant shall agree to preserve the  confidentiality of
any confidential  information  relating to the Borrower received by it from such
Bank.

     (f)  Notwithstanding any other provision contained in this Agreement or any
other Loan Document to the contrary,  each Bank may assign all or any portion of
its  Loans  and its  Notes to any  Federal  Reserve  Bank or the  United  States
Treasury (and its transferees) as collateral  security  pursuant to Regulation A
of the Board of  Governors  of the  Federal  Reserve  System  and any  operating
Circular  issued by such  Federal  Reserve  Bank,  provided  that any payment in
respect of such  assigned Loan made by the Borrower to or for the account of the
assigning Bank in accordance  with the terms of this Agreement shall satisfy the
Borrower's obligations hereunder in respect of such assigned Loans to the extent
of such payment.  No such  assignment  shall release the assigning Bank from its
obligations hereunder.

     Section 9.14. Relief From Bankruptcy Stay.
                   ---------------------------

     In  the  event  that  the  Borrower  or  any  of  the  persons  or  parties
constituting  the Borrower shall (i) file with any bankruptcy court of competent
jurisdiction  or be the subject of any petition under Title 11 of the U.S. Code,
as  amended  ("Bankruptcy  Code"),  (ii) be the  subject of any order for relief
issued under the Bankruptcy  Code,  (iii) file or be the subject of any petition
seeking any reorganization, arrangement, composition, readjustment, liquidation,
dissolution,  or similar relief under any present or future federal or state act
or  law  relating  to  bankruptcy,  insolvency,  or  other  relief  for  debtors
(collectively,  "Insolvency  Law")  ,  (iv)  have  sought  or  consented  to  or
acquiesced  in  the  appointment  of  any  trustee,  receiver,  conservator,  or
liquidator,  or (v) be the subject of any order,  judgment, or decree entered by
any court of  competent  jurisdiction  approving a petition  filed  against such
party   for  any   reorganization,   arrangement,   composition,   readjustment,
liquidation,  dissolution,  or similar  relief  under any  Insolvency  Law,  the
Administrative  Agent and each Bank shall thereupon be entitled and the Borrower
irrevocably  consents to immediate and  unconditional  relief from any automatic
stay  imposed by Section 362 of the  Bankruptcy  Code,  or any other stay issued
pursuant  to the  Bankruptcy  Code or any  Insolvency  Law,  on or  against  the
exercise  of the rights and  remedies  otherwise  available  to each Bank or the
Administrative  Agent  as  provided  in  connection  herewith  and as  otherwise
provided by law, and the Borrower hereby  irrevocably waives any right to object
to  such   relief  and  will  not  contest  any  motion  by  each  Bank  or  the
Administrative  Agent  seeking  relief  from  such  stay and the  Borrower  will
cooperate with each Bank and the  Administrative  Agent, in any manner requested
by each Bank or the  Administrative  Agent, in its efforts to obtain relief from
any such stay.
<PAGE>
     Section 9.15.  Governing Law; Consent to  Jurisdiction;  Waiver of Trial by
                    Jury.
                    ------------------------------------------------------------

     (a) THIS  AGREEMENT,  THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS AND ALL OTHER  DOCUMENTS AND
INSTRUMENTS  EXECUTED AND DELIVERED IN CONNECTION HEREWITH AND THEREWITH,  SHALL
BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED AND  INTERPRETED  IN ACCORDANCE  WITH, THE LAWS OF
THE STATE OF NEW YORK  WITHOUT  REGARD TO ITS RULES  PERTAINING  TO CONFLICTS OF
LAWS.

     (b) THE BORROWER  IRREVOCABLY  CONSENTS THAT ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING
AGAINST IT UNDER,  ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY MANNER  RELATING TO THIS  AGREEMENT,
AND EACH  OTHER  LOAN  DOCUMENT  MAY BE BROUGHT IN ANY COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW
YORK,  COUNTY  OF NEW  YORK,  OR IN THE  UNITED  STATES  DISTRICT  COURT FOR THE
SOUTHERN  DISTRICT OF NEW YORK.  THE BORROWER,  BY THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF
THIS AGREEMENT,  EXPRESSLY AND  IRREVOCABLY  ASSENTS AND SUBMITS TO THE PERSONAL
JURISDICTION  OF ANY OF SUCH  COURTS  IN ANY  SUCH  ACTION  OR  PROCEEDING.  THE
BORROWER FURTHER IRREVOCABLY CONSENTS TO THE SERVICE OF ANY COMPLAINT,  SUMMONS,
NOTICE OR OTHER  PROCESS  RELATING TO ANY SUCH ACTION OR  PROCEEDING BY DELIVERY
THEREOF  TO IT BY HAND OR BY MAIL IN THE  MANNER  PROVIDED  FOR IN  SECTION  9.9
HEREOF.  THE  BORROWER  HEREBY  EXPRESSLY  AND  IRREVOCABLY  WAIVES ANY CLAIM OR
DEFENSE IN ANY SUCH ACTION OR  PROCEEDING  BASED ON ANY ALLEGED LACK OF PERSONAL
JURISDICTION,  IMPROPER VENUE OR FORUM NON CONVENIENS OR ANY SIMILAR BASIS.  THE
BORROWER  SHALL NOT BE ENTITLED IN ANY SUCH ACTION OR  PROCEEDING  TO ASSERT ANY
DEFENSE GIVEN OR ALLOWED UNDER THE LAWS OF ANY STATE OTHER THAN THE STATE OF NEW
YORK  UNLESS  SUCH  DEFENSE IS ALSO GIVEN OR ALLOWED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF
NEW YORK.  NOTHING IN THIS  SECTION 9.15 SHALL AFFECT OR IMPAIR IN ANY MANNER OR
TO ANY  EXTENT  THE RIGHT OF THE  ADMININSRATIVE  AGENT OR ANY BANK TO  COMMENCE
LEGAL  PROCEEDINGS OR OTHERWISE PROCEED AGAINST THE BORROWER IN ANY JURISDICTION
OR TO SERVE PROCESS IN ANY MANNER PERMITTED BY LAW.

     (c) EACH OF THE BORROWER,  EACH AGENT AND EACH BANK WAIVES TRIAL BY JURY IN
ANY LITIGATION IN ANY COURT WITH RESPECT TO, IN CONNECTION  WITH, OR ARISING OUT
OF,  THIS  AGREEMENT,  ANY OF THE OTHER LOAN  DOCUMENTS,  OR ANY  INSTRUMENT  OR
DOCUMENT  DELIVERED  PURSUANT TO THIS  AGREEMENT  OR THE  VALIDITY,  PROTECTION,
INTERPRETATION, COLLECTION OR ENFORCEMENT THEREOF.
<PAGE>
     Section 9.16. Prior Agreement
                   ---------------

     Upon the execution of this Agreement and the satisfaction of the conditions
set forth in  Article 4 and the  repayment  in full of all  Rollover  Eurodollar
Loans, the Prior Agreement shall be deemed terminated; provided, that, all right
of the Banks  thereunder  and all  obligations  of the Borrower  thereunder  not
theretofore satisfied shall survive to the extent not covered by this Agreement.

     Section 9.17. Interest Adjustment.
                   -------------------

     All agreements between the Borrower, the Administrative Agent and the Banks
are hereby  expressly  limited so that in no  contingency  or event  whatsoever,
whether by reason of  acceleration  of  maturity of the  indebtedness  evidenced
hereby or otherwise,  shall the amount paid or agreed to be paid to any Bank for
the use or the  forbearance  of the  indebtedness  evidenced  hereby  exceed the
maximum  permissible under applicable law. As used herein,  the term "applicable
law" shall mean the law in effect as of the date hereof provided,  however, that
in the event there is a change in the law which results in a higher  permissible
rate of interest,  then the Loan Documents  shall be governed by such new law as
of its  effective  date. In this regard,  it is expressly  agreed that it is the
intent of Borrower and the Bank in the  execution,  delivery and  acceptance  of
this  Agreement to contract in strict  compliance  with the laws of the State of
New York  from  time to time in  effect.  If,  under  or from any  circumstances
whatsoever,  fulfillment of any provision hereof or of any of the Loan Documents
at the  time of  performance  of such  provision  shall  be due,  shall  involve
transcending  the limit of such validity  prescribed by applicable law, then the
obligation to be fulfilled shall  automatically be reduced to the limits of such
validity,  and if under or from  circumstances  whatsoever the  applicable  Bank
should ever receive as interest and amount which would exceed the highest lawful
rate,  such amount  which would be  excessive  interest  shall be applied to the
reduction of the principal  balance  evidenced by a Note (in such manner as such
Bank may determine in its sole  discretion)  and not to the payment of interest.
This provision shall control every other provision of all agreements between the
Borrower and such Bank.

     Section 9.18. Lost Notes.
                   ----------

     Upon  receipt  of a  certificate  of an officer of any Bank as to the loss,
theft,  destruction  or  mutilation of any Note or any other  security  document
which  is not of  public  record,  and,  in the case of any  such  loss,  theft,
destruction or mutilation, upon surrender and cancellation of such Note or other
security document,  the Borrower will issue, in lieu thereof, a replacement Note
or other security document in the same principal amount thereof and otherwise of
like tenor.
<PAGE>
     Article 10 The Administrative Agent.
                ------------------------

     Section 10.1. Appointment.
                   -----------

     Each of the Banks hereby irrevocably  appoints the Administrative  Agent as
its agent and  authorizes the  Administrative  Agent to take such actions on its
behalf and to exercise such powers as are delegated to the Administrative  Agent
by the terms  hereof,  together  with such actions and powers as are  reasonably
incidental thereto.

     Section 10.2. Individual Capacity.
                   -------------------

     The Person serving as the  Administrative  Agent  hereunder  shall have the
same  rights  and  powers in its  capacity  as a Bank as any other  Bank and may
exercise  the same as  though  it were not the  Administrative  Agent,  and such
Person and its Affiliates may accept  deposits from, lend money to and generally
engage  in any  kind of  business  with the  Borrower,  any  Subsidiary,  or any
Affiliate of the Borrower as if it were not the Administrative Agent hereunder.

     Section 10.3. Exculpatory Provisions.


     The  Administrative  Agent shall not have any duties or obligations  except
those  expressly  set forth  herein.  Without  limiting  the  generality  of the
foregoing, (1) the Administrative Agent shall not be subject to any fiduciary or
other  implied  duties,  regardless  of whether a Default  has  occurred  and is
continuing,  (2) the  Administrative  Agent  shall not have any duty to take any
discretionary action or exercise any discretionary  powers, except discretionary
rights and powers expressly contemplated hereby that the Administrative Agent is
required  to  exercise  in  writing  pursuant  to a written  directive  from the
Required  Banks (or such  other  number or  percentage  of the Banks as shall be
necessary under the circumstances as provided in Section 9.6), and (3) except as
expressly set forth herein, the Administrative  Agent shall not have any duty to
disclose,  and shall not be liable for the failure to disclose,  any information
relating to the Borrower or any Subsidiary  that is  communicated to or obtained
by the bank  serving as  Administrative  Agent or any of its  Affiliates  in any
capacity.  The Administrative  Agent shall not be liable for any action taken or
not taken by it with the  consent or at the  request of the  Required  Banks (or
such other number or  percentage  of the Banks as shall be  necessary  under the
circumstances  as  provided  in Section  9.6) or in the absence of its own gross
negligence or willful misconduct.  The Administrative  Agent shall be deemed not
to have  knowledge of any Default  unless and until  written  notice  thereof is
given to the  Administrative  Agent by the Borrower or another  Credit Party and
the  Administrative  Agent  shall  not be  responsible  for or have  any duty to
ascertain or inquire into (i) any statement,  warranty or representation made in
or in  connection  with this  Agreement,  (ii) the contents of any  certificate,
report or other document delivered  hereunder or in connection  herewith,  (iii)
the performance or observance of any of the covenants, agreements or other terms
or conditions set forth herein, (iv) the validity, enforceability, effectiveness
or  genuineness  of  this  Agreement  or any  other  agreements,  instrument  or
document,  or (v) the  satisfaction  of any  condition set forth in Article 4 or
elsewhere herein,  other than to confirm receipt of items expressly  required to
be delivered to the Administrative Agent.
<PAGE>
     Section 10.4. Reliance by Administrative Agent.
                   --------------------------------

     The  Administrative  Agent shall be  entitled  to rely upon,  and shall not
incur any liability for relying upon, any notice, request, certificate, consent,
statement,  instrument,  document or other writing  believed by it to be genuine
and to have been signed or sent by the proper Person. The  Administrative  Agent
also may rely upon any statement  made to it orally or by telephone and believed
by it to be made by the proper  Person,  and shall not incur any  liability  for
relying thereon.  The  Administrative  Agent may consult with legal counsel (who
may be counsel  to the  Borrower),  independent  accountants  and other  experts
selected by it, and shall not be liable for any action  taken or not taken by it
in accordance with the advice of any such counsel, accountants or experts.

     Section 10.5. Delegation.
                   ----------

     The Administrative Agent may perform any and all of its duties and exercise
its rights and powers by or through any one or more  subagents  appointed by the
Administrative Agent, including, without limitation, the appointment of Chase as
Documentation  Agent,  provided that no such delegation shall serve as a release
of the  Administrative  Agent or waiver by the Borrower of any rights hereunder;
provided further that although Chase, as  Documentation  Agent shall be entitled
to all the benefits of the  exculpatory  provisions set forth in this Agreement,
Chase,  as  Documentation  Agent  shall  have  no  duties,  responsibilities  or
liabilities whatsoever,  in such capacity. The Administrative Agent and any such
subagent  may  perform  any and all of its  duties and  exercise  its rights and
powers through their respective Related Parties.  The exculpatory  provisions of
this Article 10 shall apply to any such  subagent and to the Related  Parties of
the  Administrative  Agent  and any  such  subagent,  and  shall  apply to their
respective   activities  in  connection  with  the  syndication  of  the  credit
facilities provided for herein as well as activities as Administrative Agent.

     Section 10.6. Resignation; Successor Administrative Agent.
                   -------------------------------------------

     Subject to the  appointment  and  acceptance of a successor  Administrative
Agent as provided in this Section 10.6, the  Administrative  Agent may resign at
any time by notifying the Banks and the Borrower. Upon any such resignation, the
Required  Banks shall have the right,  in  consultation  with the  Borrower,  to
appoint  a  successor.  If no  successor  shall  have been so  appointed  by the
Required Banks and shall have accepted such appointment within 30 days after the
retiring Administrative Agent gives notice of its resignation, then the retiring
Administrative   Agent  may,  on  behalf  of  the  Banks,  appoint  a  successor
Administrative Agent which shall be a bank with an office in New York, New York,
or an Affiliate of any such bank.  Upon the  acceptance  of its  appointment  as
<PAGE>
Administrative  Agent hereunder by a successor,  such successor shall succeed to
and become  vested with all the  rights,  powers,  privileges  and duties of the
retiring  Administrative  Agent, and the retiring  Administrative Agent shall be
discharged from its duties and obligations  hereunder.  After the Administrative
Agent's  resignation  hereunder,  the provisions of this Article and Section 9.6
shall continue in effect for the benefit of such retiring  Administrative Agent,
its subagents  and their  respective  Related  Parties in respect of any actions
taken  or  permitted  to be  taken  by any  of  them  while  it  was  acting  as
Administrative Agent.

     Section 10.7. NonReliance on Other Credit Parties.
                   -----------------------------------

     Each  Credit  Party  acknowledges  that it has,  independently  and without
reliance  upon the  Administrative  Agent or any other Credit Party and based on
such documents and information as it has deemed appropriate, made its own credit
analysis  and  decision to enter into this  Agreement.  Each  Credit  Party also
acknowledges  that  it  will,   independently  and  without  reliance  upon  the
Administrative  Agent or any other Credit Party and based on such  documents and
information as it shall from time to time deem appropriate, continue to make its
own decisions in taking or not taking action under or based upon this Agreement,
any related agreement or any document furnished hereunder or thereunder.

                   [BALANCE OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.
                        SIGNATURES FOLLOW ON NEXT PAGES]
<PAGE>
     IN WITNESS  WHEREOF,  the parties  hereto have caused this  Agreement to be
duly executed on the date first above written.


                                   GRIFFON CORPORATION

                                   By:    /s/ Robert Balemian
                                          --------------------------------------
                                   Name:      Robert Balemian
                                          --------------------------------------
                                   Title:     President
                                          --------------------------------------










                       [SIGNATURES CONTINUE ON NEXT PAGE]


<PAGE>
Commitment:
- ----------
$50,000,000                        FLEET BANK, NATIONAL
                                    ASSOCIATION, individually and in its
                                    capacity as Administrative Agent

                                   By:    /s/ Christopher J. Mendelsohn
                                          --------------------------------------
                                   Name:  Christopher J. Mendelsohn
                                          --------------------------------------
                                   Title: Vice President
                                          --------------------------------------

                                   Lending Office for Prime Rate Loans and
                                   ---------------------------------------
                                   Eurodollar Loans:
                                   ----------------
                                   300 Broad Hollow Road
                                   Melville, New York 11747

                                   Attention:  Christopher J. Mendelsohn

                                   Address for Notices:
                                   -------------------
                                   300 Broad Hollow Road
                                   Melville, New York 11747

                                   Attention: Christopher J. Mendelsohn

                                   Telecopier No.: (516) 547-7815





                       [SIGNATURES CONTINUE ON NEXT PAGE]
<PAGE>
Commitment:
- ----------
$45,000,000                        THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK,
                                    individually and in its capacity as
                                    Documentation Agent

                                   By:    /s/  Barbara G. Bertschi
                                          --------------------------------------
                                   Name:   Barbara G. Bertschi
                                          --------------------------------------
                                   Title:  Vice President
                                          --------------------------------------

                                   Lending Office for Prime Rate Loans and
                                   ---------------------------------------
                                   Eurodollar Loans:
                                   ----------------

                                   7600 Jericho Turnpike
                                   Suite 306
                                   Woodbury, New York  11797

                                   Attention: Barbara G. Bertschi

                                   Address for Notices:
                                   -------------------

                                   7600 Jericho Turnpike
                                   Suite 306
                                   Woodbury, New York  11797

                                   Attention:  Barbara G. Bertschi

                                   Telecopier No.:  (516) 364-3307







                       [SIGNATURES CONTINUE ON NEXT PAGE]
<PAGE>
Commitment:
- ----------
$25,000,000                        FIRSTAR BANK, NATIONAL
                                    ASSOCIATION

                                   By:    /s/ Thomas D. Gibbons
                                          --------------------------------------
                                   Name:  Thomas D. Gibbons
                                          --------------------------------------
                                   Title: Vice President
                                          --------------------------------------

                                   Lending Office for Prime Rate Loans and
                                   ---------------------------------------
                                   Eurodollar Loans:
                                   ----------------

                                   425 Walnut Street - ML 8160
                                   Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

                                   Attention:  Derek S. Roudebush
                                               Vice President

                                   Address for Notices:
                                   -------------------

                                   425 Walnut Street - ML 8160
                                   Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

                                   Attention:  Derek S. Roudebush
                                               Vice President

                                   Telecopier No.:  513 632-2068



                                                            EXHIBIT 23



                   CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
                   -----------------------------------------




As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation of our
report,  dated November 11, 1999, included in this Form 10-K, into the Company's
previously filed Registration  Statements on Form S-8 (Nos. 33-39090,  33-62966,
33-52319, 33-57683, 333-21503, 333-62319 and 333-84409).



                                                  ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP



Roseland, New Jersey
December 20, 1999

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5

<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          SEP-30-1999
<PERIOD-END>                               SEP-30-1999
<CASH>                                      21,242,000
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                              196,603,000
<ALLOWANCES>                                 8,068,000
<INVENTORY>                                 94,419,000
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                           327,028,000
<PP&E>                                     207,034,000
<DEPRECIATION>                              72,152,000
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                             533,440,000
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                      138,005,000
<BONDS>                                    127,652,000
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                     7,934,000
<OTHER-SE>                                 242,287,000
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>               533,440,000
<SALES>                                  1,032,697,000
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                         1,032,697,000
<CGS>                                      783,505,000
<TOTAL-COSTS>                              783,505,000
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                     0
<LOSS-PROVISION>                             2,780,000
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                           7,871,000
<INCOME-PRETAX>                             32,081,000
<INCOME-TAX>                                11,870,000
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                         20,211,000
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                20,211,000
<EPS-BASIC>                                       0.67
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     0.66


</TABLE>


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