Tag Installation & Maintenance

A dumbwaiter is a device similar to the elevator and can be used to convey food or other materials from one floor to another. Dumbwaiters are not new in the industry and are used throughout homes around the world. Dumbwaiters can carry clothes, groceries, laundry, firewood, books and other household items. Apart from residential use, dumbwaiters are ideal for commercial use in stores, restaurants, and cafeterias.

Two common models of dumbwaiters available in the market are manual dumbwaiters and electrical dumbwaiters. Manual dumbwaiters are less costly than electrical models and operate by means of a rope which can be pulled by the operator to move items from one floor to another. Electrical models are run by motors with varying load carrying capacities and are easier to operate at the simple push of a button.

Considering the cost factors, dumbwaiters are available at half the cost of a small residential elevator. The major cost factors include installing enclosed shafts and lifting device motor, and installing the rails for the dumbwaiter to ride on the wall. These devices are made of highly durable components which are the same materials used in commercial elevators. Dumbwaiter cabs are available in stainless steel material and also in high quality wood finish. They come with safety features such as magnetic door switches to prevent the system from running with open doors.

The dumbwaiter can be called a small mini-elevator with guide rails, pulley systems, and control systems. Most dumbwaiters are capable of carrying weights ranging from 75 to 150 lbs. These elevators are built to last longer and come with manufacturer warranties that cover free servicing and replacements for damages. As the unit comes with hand ropes, cables and installation fasteners which are easier to handle and assemble, the relocation of the whole unit is quite easy.

Dumbwaiters are not luxury items since they have considerable practical use in both residential and commercial buildings. These products can save your valuable time and reduce the risk of back pain and injuries you may incur by lifting heavy household items. They can also add to the resale value of your home.

Source by Tom M Smith

So a basement drywall is cheap and gives a smooth finish. That’s only half of the story. What you may not know is that there are some disadvantages to using drywall material. Consider these first before installing one in your basement.

Limited Access

The single most crucial drywall disadvantage is that it offers very limited access to pipes and wires. If you have to install or repair some connections or leaks, you may have to rip open part of your drywall. Some home owners have solved this problem by cutting access points in some parts of the drywall and using pipes to house wires. This is only a good idea though if only wires need maintenance and if you know exactly what water pipe sections need repair. If you are unable to detect a leak early, you might even end up with a completely damaged drywall.

Limited access can also be bothersome if you want to renovate your basement again. You might have to destroy your drywall if you want to improve even just a section of the basement. Taking out an old drywall can be a messy task.

Can Attract Mold

The term basement drywall may be a bit misleading. You might think that if you have one, you are also fortifying your basement from common enemies such as moisture and molds. Your drywall however is part paper. That means it is even more attractive and inviting to molds. The mold in your drywall can become so bad that other items in your basement could suffer too. The worst part is that it may actually take some time before you notice that something is wrong.

Expensive in the Long Run

Drywall installation may be cheap at first. If you carefully sum up all your expenses however, you might realize that you have actually spent even more than you originally planned. It can be expensive for example to have to repair mold and leak damage. Removing and replacing a drywall because of a common basement problem can double your expenses.

Now you know both sides of the story when it comes to basement drywall installation. You can now decide if it truly is the best choice for your basement.

Source by Casey Torren

Bifold doors are expensive but well worth the investment if you are considering renovations. Your house opens up to the garden and creates an amazing aesthetic when these doors are installed. It pays to exercise caution and care in a selection of the doors and consider various factors.

Price is not everything

The cheapest is not the best and the most expensive also is not necessarily the best. A Bifold door is not just panels put together; it is an entire system where design, engineering precision and choice of hardware plays an important in the door’s looks and performance just as much as the bifold door installation does. Buying a well known international brand with local support is a good option.

Material of door

Bifolds can have wood, steel, uPVC or aluminum section frames. Wood can obstruct the view and be heavy. uPVC material can flex and distort which will affect the working of the door and there is a size limitation as well. Steel can be heavy. Aluminum is the best material for sections. It is relatively stable and does not tend to distort with temperature variations. From the maintenance point too aluminum scores because powder coated or natural anodized aluminum does not need frequent paint or maintenance.

Top hung or bottom rolling?

Bifold doors are available as top hung or bottom rolling types. If a strong enough beam is present then the top hung type is best because it does not collect leaves and debris and the frame conceals the mechanism from view.

Hardware and installation

Hardware is complex with bifold doors and must be precision engineered from quality materials besides being fitted just right during installation. Improper alignment can affect performance and cause stress on frames besides making the door hard to open and close. Quality systems have wheels that run on flat tracks and pivoted end doors for smooth movement even when the jamb does not allow much adjustment. Bifold door installation is important too when it comes to getting the threshold right to prevent rain seepage and yet creating a smooth transition that does not cause one to stub one’s toes. Rain penetration is an important matter especially if the door is exposed. This is where the expertise of installer comes into play to provide a perfectly rebated rain-proof threshold. Security is another aspect to consider in the matter of bifold door hardware and a typical secure door would have multipoint locking system with shoot bolt for intermediate panels.

Single or double glazing

Energy conservation is important so double glazing is recommended. It will also provide some degree of acoustic insulation. Quality manufacturers provide U-values of 1.8w/sqmK or lower for such energy efficient bifold doors.

Screening

There are times when one may want an unimpeded view and there are times when one may want to shut out the light. Curtains are good but can impede the view. Venetian blinds that roll up all the way to the top may be ideal. If you choose a double glazed door then the blinds may be incorporated into the panels but at the cost of impeding the view. It is best to coordinate with the installer and clear this point as well before ordering a bifold door.

Source by Flora Adams

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians are skilled tradespersons that install heating and cooling systems. Additionally, they maintain and repair the system when problems arise. This may be in a residential setting or for commercial facilities. Those who work for a retailer are often responsible for selling service contracts to clients.

Types of Certification

Becoming HVAC certified will depend on the type of certification that you desire and the training that you have achieved. Since many people work in the field under a licensed HVAC person, they may have some experience before taking classes. Those who have over a year of experience in installation and at least 2 years in maintenance will have a wider choice when it comes to the type of HVAC certification they choose.

In order to become certified, the proper classes must be taken. Before doing so, a high school diploma or GED is required. This is required for admittance to most accredited HVAC training programs. These programs offer classes in the installation and repair of HVAC as well as reading blueprints, temperature control, construction and equipment design. The programs are available at various schools and colleges as well as online.

The programs are generally from six months to two years and depending on the length of the course, upon successful completion, the student will receive a certificate or an associate’s degree. There are also opportunities available for those who join the Armed Forces to receive specialized training in the HVAC field.

Licensing

After completing the training program successfully, earning a certification or a degree, sitting for the HVAC licensing exam will be required by most states to work in this field. The licensing exam will differ somewhat from one location to another. The main consideration is the knowledge of all the aspects of installation and repair of HVAC systems. In addition, some licensing exams require the applicant to know electrical codes.

If the career chosen will include working with refrigerants, a separate certification is needed for this field. This includes high and low-pressure refrigerants and servicing small appliances. When this career is chosen at an early age, usually while in high school, it is beneficial to take classes that can help in preparing the student for the classes they will take next. The basic recommendations are mathematics, physics, electronics and mechanical drawing.

There are additional licenses needed if the HVAC career will include contractor services. This is often a career that is chosen after learning the other aspects of HVAC. The qualifications to apply for a license as an HVAC contractor include being at least 18 years of age, speaking and reading the English language and four years of verifiable experience in warm heating.

If the applicant meets these qualifications, they must take an ICC examination. The International Code Council (ICC) develops these exams and they are in charge of giving them for many states. They are given at approved testing sites across the nation and are required for anyone that represents themselves in any way as an HVAC contractor.

As seen, the HVAC career is quite diverse. It can include various aspects of this profession, each having their own requirements and licenses.

Source by Lorn H.

You dream to be the owner of a building that is picture-perfect, as well as, versatile. You want it to counter the ravaging influence of time. If you are genuinely interested in making an ultimate statement, then, you have to choose the tile and stone installation. The material base lends a timeless durability to structures. Apart from this, such installations also stand out, on account of their grace and natural beauty.

Endless options to choose from

The category includes plenty of options. You can make your pick from the ceramic, porcelain and glass tiles. As far as the stone-based installation is concerned, you will not run short of options that are unique, appealing and natural. Just as you can choose marble or granite, similarly, you can use travertine to come up with a long-lasting designing solution.

Things that you should know

It is important that you are aware of the features and finishes of the different types of stone and tile-based installation. You should know how much to pay for the tile or stone that you have selected. But do remember, installation charge and knowing the cost of materials are not the only aspects to focus on. You should know the maintenance cost, as well. For instance, if you understand that it is easier and more economical to maintain tile than installations based on stone, then, you can take a useful decision.

Know the performance of each installation

Product performance of individual installation varies according to the density. Porousness and glaze also affect the net performance and durability. Granite, as well as marble, is denser than the other varieties of stone. So, if you have to choose between these and travertine, you should vote for the former. With their greater density, they impart solidarity and permanence to installations. Just as you need to study the hardness level of different types of wood while selecting wooden furniture, similarly, you should know which stone type is denser than the other. Only then, you can assess the performance potential of different installations.

Different types of tiles

While researching the tile and stone installation, you have already noted that tile is more cost-effective to manage and maintain than stone. So, you are looking for one of the best varieties of tile. In this context, it is worth noting that different varieties of tiles are rated differently. Flooring experts categorize different varieties according to their abrasion resistance and overall durability. The rating comes on a scale of one to five. Both porcelain, as well as, ceramic tile is rated highly because of their durability and resistance to abrasion. Glass tiles are not rated that highly. You now know the reasons that are responsible.

Constructional differences are also there

Ceramic tiles of the glazed type are made of earth materials. But since the porcelain tile happens to be the hardest, it is used across a wide variety of applications. The latter is more popular than the former in the constructional industry. Glass tiles come in different textures, sizes, colors, and shapes. The glass-based variety accommodates mosaic configuration. You can use the type to accentuate the impact of your floors, showers, and backsplashes.

Source by Kaiyden Tyler

Do you want to have a water cooler in your home, giving you a chance to enjoy cold and fresh water, whenever you feel thirsty? Then there are two viable options for you – rent or buy.

Homeowners tend to opt for renting. The service includes the delivery of bottles and the sanitation of the equipment. But is rental really the most financially savvy option?

Rental is connected to a monthly charge. This fee includes maintenance and some repairs, as well. These additional services are viewed as a great convenience, which is probably why some people prefer renting.

Long-term decisions, however, especially ones that incorporate lifestyle changes favour the purchase of a water cooler for household use.

Buying a unit for your home is connected to numerous benefits that include drinking more water and saving on the purchase of bottled water from the local supermarket and also an overall healthy lifestyle mind-set.

Purchase, Maintenance and Repairs

Rental does come with the added benefit of maintenance and repairs that are included in the monthly fee. But what are the benefits, if the home water cooler is purchased?

For one, the supply company could provide proper installation and maintenance even after you buy the equipment, so you’re never left out on a limb. Having a water cooler you’ve bought also gives you more freedom when it comes to choosing the sanitation and maintenance procedures.

The product is usually delivered with a comprehensive installation guide. Additionally, websites nowadays provide more than sufficient information about sanitation and proper maintenance. But if you have no interest in doing the maintenance yourself, you can always choose a qualified technician.

Getting Refill Bottles

Most suppliers will also be offering bottle refill services. In fact, most suppliers insist on supplying bottles for the maintenance agreement to remain valid. However, owners of home water coolers who’ve purchased outright can get their bottles from an alternative supplier, that they choose.

All water coolers have universal fitting anyway, which means that the most common and popular water bottle brands will be suitable for the equipment.

Extra Tips:

Read the small print

When choosing a bottle refill supplier, take a close look at the contract to make sure that you are getting the best possible conditions without an overly long-term commitment.

Find a local supplier

Going for a local company is always the best and the most affordable possibility. Compare different options and figure out whether getting the bottles from the supplier is the most beneficial option.

Most suppliers deliver additional services, which means you will be free from worrying about maintenance and sanitation and just be able to enjoy a steady supply of drinking water in your home to complement a healthy lifestyle.

When deciding whether to rent or to buy, you will have to think about the time period in which you will need to use the piece. But buying your own equipment will always be the better investment over the long term for a homeowner.

Source by Nick Swan

The term and idea of property maintenance was developed to provide comprehensive maintenance services to the retail, commercial and industrial sectors throughout the UK.

As the prices of the property market continue to increase there has never been more of a need to provide effective maintenance of existing property. Maintenance of property now also represents a significant proportion of the construction output.

Maintaining a building involves the need to carry out numerous tasks. This is especially true with older structures as more work may be needed on them to keep them in good working condition.

Property maintenance makes up just one of the tasks that can be carried out by a property management company. The task of property maintenance refers to several tasks and can refer to both emergency repair work and more cosmetic work. Whether you need work to be carried out such as electrical installation, building repair work or fixing a roof a property management team can perform all of these tasks as part of their property maintenance work. Also classed as property maintenance are aspects such as interior painting, plastering and carpentry work; whether aspects such as these are being done merely to improve the look or a property or because they are needed as repair work, again, a property maintenance team can perform all of these tasks.

Below are a few example of what constitutes property maintenance:

Building Repairs

Building Repairs is a broad term; it can cover straight forwards repairs that can be done within a day, through to other repairs that are more complicated where major work will needed to be carried out. Work such as this could range from weeks to even months to repair. Maintenance of your property and any alterations you might consider can save you from having to face expensive costs when things get to a point beyond repair.

Electrical Installation

Electrical Installation is a process that shouldn’t be taken lightly; even the smallest mistakes can result in severe consequences. This is why it is always best to enlist the help of a professional when it come to doing any electrical installation or repairs as part of your property maintenance.

The job of an electrician is to determine the wires that are needed for a particular home or business and to provide your property with adequate power in the safest possible way.

Carpentry

Carpentry stands as the largest trade out of the construction sector. Jobs within the trade range from building highways/bridges to installing kitchen cabinets.

Carpentry covers aspects of woodworking such as constructing buildings, furniture and other formations out of wood. Carpenters erect, install and repair structures which are made from wood and other materials.

Roofing

Without a properly maintained roof your home is left susceptible to damage from elements of the weather. You’re roofing and guttering need to be kept in good condition to enable your property to remain weatherproof.

The type of roof that is on your property can vary. Factors such as what the building is being used for, local traditions of construction and wider concepts of architectural design can all determine whether your property has a slate roof, title roof or felt roof.

Source by Helen Cox

Electronics perform essential functions in your life. Owning a television, a refrigerator and an air conditioner is considered normal in every household. Although ubiquitous equipment, very few people possess the knowledge to install and repair them.

Of all these, air conditioning installation requires the most training. That’s why most rely upon professional HVAC professionals for installation and repair. Finding a dependable HVAC company can be tricky. An air conditioner keeps your home comfortable during the warmest parts of the summer. If it is not installed properly in the first place, it can cost you almost the double amount to get it reinstalled. A lot of people hire air conditioning experts to ensure its safe and correct installation. Following these tips can help you avoid the mistakes that a lot of people make while installing.

1. If you are moving into a new house and your building contractor insists on installing your air condition for you, make sure that he brings in an expert from a qualified HVAC company to do the installation. A lot of times, people leave it to the contractors to get it done and they don’t hire HVAC experts for the installation. In such a case, you might face problems after you have moved into the house. A qualified HVAC installer adjusts and tunes your air conditioner according to the manufacturer’s specifications, thus reducing the chances of breakdowns.

2. If you are renovating your house, you may change the layout, the usage of the space or even use a different material for construction. All this will affect the size of the unit you should buy for your house. Most people avoid this detail and simply replace the old unit with a new one, possibly of the same company and the same size. That unit may not have efficient energy as you might want it to be or it may not sufficiently cool your home. It is better to take an expert’s advice before installing an air conditioner to avoid these problems.

3. If you simply reinstall the old air conditioner or get the very same model without looking around for more options, you may be missing out on some really improved versions of these units that would enhance the comfort of your space. With the innovation in technology, much more sophisticated HVAC technology units are available in the market. You would know about all of this had your hired an expert to guide you through buying and installing.

4. The biggest mistake of all is to hire a company that only installs the air conditioners but does not repair them. It is very important to choose a HVAC company that not only installs your new ac units, but can also service it when required. Once the ac unit is installed, make maintenance your priority. Otherwise your unit will break down more often.

Installing an A/C system may seem like a trivial thing, but if not done properly, it can cost you quite a bit of money to set it right. To avoid all the trouble, hire a true HVAC expert in the first place who not only installs your unit but also offers its maintenance.

Source by Hara E Ford

Watermark Faucets are undoubtedly world class products made after careful concept making, manufactured in stringent processing facilities and marketed by a large number of reputable distributors. Certainly, there are several basic questions that revolve around the installation, maintenance or repair of these faucets. A few of which will be answered below.

Can a new faucet be installed using the previous drainage set-up?

For most faucets made by Watermark, this installation is easily feasible. Such is especially true if the original assembly and the new faucet belong to the same finishing styles (example: both have brass finishes). If you desire a faucet with a new style, then it will be beneficial for you to replace the drain assembly with the same finish for easier management of the overall set-up.

Can you install or repair Watermark Faucets using silicone, Teflon tape or plumber’s putty without voiding the warranty?

Watermark allows the homeowner to use silicone for forming water tight seals between sink and drain, and between sink and faucet. If silicone is used, it is advised that only purely non-corrosive silicone must be utilized. Teflon tape is allowed to effectively seal pipes without compromising any warranty. On the other hand, the company won’t tolerate the use of plumber’s putty. Although its function is similar to that of silicone, it contains an acidic component that can potentially corrode some coatings. This possible corrosion causes plumber’s putty application to nullify any product warranty.

What must not be done while cleaning Watermark Faucets?

If a cleaner’s ingredients include alcohols, organic solvents, abrasives or other very reactive chemicals, then you must never apply that cleaning agent on any Watermark Faucet. The mentioned components compromise the finish of the faucet and may speed up corrosion and further damage. Cleansers or sponges, which are not proven safe for polished metallic surfaces, shall not also be used on any Watermark product. Majority of fibrous pads or sponges have unseen minute particles that can scratch the faucet’s finish. Leaving the cleaner for far too long is another terrible mistake. Instead of preserving the faucets, the cleaners may instead shorten the lifespan of your faucet. To avoid such, immediately remove the cleaner with water after enough contact has been established between the cleaning agent and the product being washed.

What must you do if you observe that your Watermark faucet or valve is leaking?

If you observe any leak, it might be helpful to identify the source of the problem. Leaks are typically the consequences of torn or scratched cartridges. This scratch may be caused by over tightening, hard water or debris in the water line. For best results, consult a nearby professional plumber or contact Watermark immediately after observing any leak. If it will be found out that your faucet or valve must be completely replaced, then you must purchase genuine replacement components from your nearest Watermark supplier.

What must you do if your faucet’s finish is beginning to corrode?

Gold, copper and nickel finishes may perish over time because of microscopic particles normally present in the air or because of improper cleaning. If your faucet’s gold or copper finish starts to fade, you have to rub the faucet with a rag containing a mild quantity of lemon-scented furniture finish. Nickel finishes lack any protective coating to allow the viewer to gaze through the faucet’s true aesthetic form. When nickel oxidation happens, just apply a small quantity of mild metal polish to the corroding faucet. There are really some instances when you have to exert serious effort in keeping the exceptional artistry and functionality of your Watermark Faucets.

Source by Arrick Chakraborty