4-types-of-elevators-which-one-best-suits-the-building

Elevators are necessary by law in buildings that are two-story or more. There are standard requirements set by the Otis Safety System and the elevators have to be designed to meet all of the needs for the different types of elevator users that visit the building. There are different elevator options that are available to meet these needs.

The lift installation services by Hin Chong uses the Otis Safety System that has been referred to the most since the 1850s. Otis Safety System has made it known that elevators have essential needs to meet these standards: control systems, counterweights, steel side-by-side pulleys, and steel beams over the elevator car. More modern elevators have emergency event items added such as phones and ceiling trap doors. Machine rooms are no longer necessary in modern elevators due to inbuilt safety mechanisms. The modern elevators come in four main types: hydraulic, traction, machine-room-less, and vacuum.

Hydraulic

Pistons for support are usually placed at the bottom to push the elevator car up while the hydraulic fluid is forced down by the electric motor. They are usually in 2-8 story buildings with 200-feet per minute maximum and the option of being roped to enhance the motion with a 60-foot limit. It is also common to have a pit with a sheave below the floor of the pit to support the retracting piston. There are also low maintenance hole-less hydraulic elevators that have a telescoping piston at the pit base and it can travel 50 feet or if it’s a non-telescoping it travels 20 feet.

Traction

A traction elevator has an electric motor above the shaft that the ropes pass over to raise and lower the elevator. It uses a counterweight to eliminate the occupant weight for easier movement. These come in both geared and gear-less traction. Geared Traction has a gearbox to power the wheel that moves the ropes up to 500 feet per minute, but the gear-less traction doesn’t have speed regulation gears so it can move up to 2,000 feet per minute.

Machine-Room-Less

These are becoming more common in mid-rise buildings. The conservation of energy and fewer space requirements make the name. They are designed with a machine fitted override space that can only be accessed by going through the top of the elevator. They also have a space-limit set at a distance of 250 feet.

Vacuum

These are air-driven and do not use any cables or pulleys to operate. It is a tube that is controlled by the air above and below the elevator car. The air pressure will push the tube upwards or the air pressure is minimized to bring the car down. It is constructed with polycarbonate and aluminum materials. There are three models that range from a single rider to wheelchair three passenger-accessible.

When it comes time to decide which elevator to install into the building, consider the most important factors after the standard safety requirements. Consider the different types of passengers and the weight of the users. If it is only going to be people, that is one thing. But, if it is going to have shipments or be used for services, consider what the shipments or service providers may need in regards to space, weight, height, double doors, and speed before deciding which elevators to purchase and install.

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8-steps-for-creating-a-victorian-style-room

If you’re a fan of period décor, then the Victorian style can be a very popular choice for many rooms of the home. A Victorian-style living room, bathroom, or bedroom can allow for a warm and inviting space filled with key Victorian influence and design

If you love the thought of having a Victorian design scheme in your home but aren’t quite sure where to start, the following steps can help you. 

#1: Choose Victorian-Style Furniture

This is key for seating and tables especially, as you will want to opt for darker and more intricate wood patterns, as well as embroidered fabric and furniture with legs. Winged arms and backs for chairs or couches is preferable, and the more layers you can create with sumptuous throws and cushions, the better. 

#2: Use Dark and Rich Tones 

Whether you’re opting for plainer walls with rich furniture, or dark walls with plainer furniture, using dark tones in the room, in any way, is a must. Fabrics and colors should be rich, like deep burgundy or plum, and layering darker colors together can add to the dramatic effect.

#3: Install a Victorian Feature Fireplace

No period room is complete without a fireplace, especially if you’re planning a traditional holiday season gathered around the fire. Having a Victorian fireplace fitted, or choosing a Victorian-style mantel surround for a current fireplace, ensures that your room has one of the key features known for this time. 

#4: Use Curtains Instead of Blinds

Your window treatments should be full, textured, and bold, which means thick fabric curtains and tiebacks are a must, as opposed to modern blind installments. 

#5: Choose Intricate Picture Frames

If you want to display wall art in your room, then you need to avoid simple or basic-looking frames. Bold and embellished gold frames, or highly ornate surrounds, will be key, and the bigger, the better. That goes for any mirrors, too. 

#6: Install the Right Flooring

Victorian-style flooring can be wood or patterned tiling if you’re looking to fully commit. You might want to install a highly patterned classic tile, or you can simply opt for plain wood, which you can layer up with thick fabric rugs. 

#7: Fabric is a Must 

The more fabric, the better, and the more rich and patterned it is will be more beneficial. As well as the obvious additions like fabric chairs, cushions, curtains, and rugs, you may even want to add more texture by a fabric wallpaper or textured wallpaper. 

#8: Add Period Finishing Touches

Finish off the room by adding period ornaments and Victorian accessories. Think sumptuous lampshades, golden candlesticks, a mantel clock, trinket boxes, footstools, and general overcrowding of shelving accessories and shiny features. 

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5-ways-to-find-the-ideal-first-home

Buying your first home is a daunting, and often confusing task. There is so much to know and for the inexperienced, it can seem like navigating a treacherous minefield. But fear not, we are putting together this concise guide on what to do and what to look out for. Here are our five ways to find the ideal first home.

Needs for your First Home

The first thing to know is what do you need from a home? If you have four kids and a dog, then your requirements are going to be different than if you are just a single person. Do you drive? The answer to this question may influence your choice. Does the property have adequate parking if you do? If not, what is the public transport provision like? You should be able to search for properties with minimum square footage and a number of rooms.

Location

Are you tied down to a particular area? Reasons for this may be that you have caring commitments for family, perhaps an elderly parent? You may want to be mindful of how far your commute to work is. Even if most of us are working from home these days, this trend may not last. If you are looking for homes for sale in Utah then make sure you are strict with your distances and not to leave yourself with too far of a regular trip.

Amenities

There are a lot of new housing developments popping up around the country, which is great, but the downside of this is that often the distance from local amenities can be considerable. It might not be an apparent issue, but if you wind up with a twenty-minute drive each way to get groceries it will become tiresome very quickly. It’s as easy as looking up Google maps and typing in the types of amenities you are interested in and then get directions.

Type of Property

We’ve talked about what size of the property we might be looking for, but this tells us nothing of property type. A detached house would be many people’s preferred choice, you get the most space, the fact that you are not attached to a neighbor and won’t get noise harassment or need to install soundproofing. You also have the advantage of a yard with a house; however, this does bring a degree of maintenance with it. If you go for an apartment then you will inevitably have the smaller square footage, but the cost will be lower, and the property will be easier to keep.

Work Needing Done

One aspect of buying a property that is crucial is to be aware of the condition of a property before making an offer. There is nothing inherently wrong with taking on a property that requires fixing up, but you should be going into the situation fully aware so that you do not end up overpaying. You can then factor in the cost of anything needing doing, from installing an air conditioning unit to fully rewiring the entire property.

SHOP HOME DECOR + HOME UPDATES…

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how-gabion-baskets-can-add-a-wow-factor-to-your-home

If you’re like me, the first thing that you think, when hearing the term ‘gabion baskets’ for the time is: what on earth is a gabion basket? 

Actually, gabions are a versatile design option, which you’ll have seen many times, without realizing they had a name. With an impressive range of uses, both indoors and outdoors, they’re well worth incorporating into any contemporary decorating scheme.  

A steel cage, or basket, is assembled in the shape you require, and packed with natural rocks, round stones or pebbles. With an intriguing blend of a closely defined structure, and the random, organic feel of the natural materials held within, they’ll add a wow factor to your interior however you choose to use them.  

Below are a few ideas which show how versatile gabions can be.

Accent walls and room dividers

One of the great things about gabions is that they’re so easy to install. As they don’t require foundations, you can choose to locate them wherever you want. Either against an existing wall to add depth and interest, or to divide up your space into more discrete areas.  Choose the height of your gabion as you want: it can either be full length, to provide privacy for example, for an office area, or you could create a low wall topped with shelves. This way you create a clear boundary between the two spaces, without blocking light or isolating those on either side.

Kitchens

If you’re thinking about replacing your kitchen island, a gabion base, perhaps incorporating some useful storage, brings a touch of nature into the kitchen to create a stunning and original centre piece. To complete a rustic look, top with a huge slab of antique wood. For something more glamorous, go for marble or granite, polished or unpolished.

Fireplaces

There’s something so primal about flames surrounded by stones. Whether built-in or free-standing, gabion cages give a contemporary look that’s almost minimalist, to your fireplace.  Select the size and color of your stones to tone with your décor and bring a touch of the outdoors inside.

Dining area

Filled with attractive natural stones gabions create the ideal base for a unique dining table. Again, choose the size and shape which fits best with the dimensions of your dining area.  In a large space, perhaps when you choose a square or rectangular base, large, stones can create interest and drama.  However, for circular or pedestal designs, and in less spacious areas, smaller and more regular shapes, such as large pebbles, create a more balanced look.  

The most important finishing touch for your unique table is, of course, the top you choose. Whether you place a handsome block of natural wood, marble or polished natural stone, on the top of the gabion baskets, and you’ll have created a stunning and totally individual piece to express your personal taste and design flair.

These are just a few ideas to spark your creativity. To learn more, look for informative sites such as Gabion Reviews, where you’ll find a wealth of information and lots of inspirational designs.

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5-tips-on-picking-solar-installers-for-homeowners

Switching to solar energy is not just a positive for your household, but for the environment as a whole.

Making the switch to solar power protects the environment, lowers your carbon emissions, and helps you keep more money in your pocket since you won’t have to worry about an electric bill.

With these matters in mind, it’s crucially important for you to find the help and assistance of a solar energy company that can look out for you.

Not all of these companies are created equally, so give yourself the chance to get help from professionals that will look out for you. Picking solar installers becomes easier when you follow the tips in this article.

1. Do Your Solar Energy Research

Do as much research as you can into solar energy. The more that you know about this form of energy, the better chance you have of making a qualified and informed decision.

Come up with a list of questions to ask your prospective solar power experts and you’ll be well ahead of the game when it’s time to hire somebody.

2. Get Referrals on the Best Solar Installation Companies

Referrals are worth their weight in gold when you’re trying to find the top solar installation company in your area.

Just knowing that someone you trust hired the company and had a good experience can put your mind at ease. When you speak to the solar power company, you should also ask them if they can provide you with any references for customers that they have done business with.

This cuts out a lot of the red tape and helps you gauge a company’s credibility.

3. Browse Some Solar Panel Designs

Think about the aesthetic aspects of installing solar power.

Look through the portfolio of your solar power professionals to see what kind of designs they can set you up with. Choose a design that accentuates your roof and brings your entire home to life.

This will buy you plenty of great years out of your panels and will serve as a positive return on investment (ROI) for your home.

4. Get Cost Estimates

Speak to several different solar power professionals to see how much they will charge you for their systems. Ask them if they can apply the federal tax rebate to the purchase as well.

When you know how much these systems cost you, it becomes easier to shop around until you find a fair deal. Ask these professionals if they can price match as well to find the best solar power system for your budget.

5. Find a Company That Will Also Address the Maintenance

Finally, take a long-term approach with your solar panel installation. The company you hire for the installation should also be able to address your ongoing repairs.

Bundle the installation with a maintenance program, and use this as a deciding factor when choosing between different competitors.

Use These Tips When Picking Solar Installers

These tips will help you out if you have the task of picking solar installers. Solar panels provide power to your home that is clean, green, and sustainable.

By putting these tips to use, you’re closer to getting the solar power service that you need.

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10-common-causes-of-mold-in-a-household-environment

Mold is a common household problem that’s potentially unhealthy. Mold spores travel and if inhaled cause all types of respiratory issues and allergies. Moreover, it can lead to lung problems including pneumonia. Here’s a look at some of the common causes of mold in the home.

How to Spot Mold:

Mold is a fungus that can be several different colors and may look fuzzy on the surface. Mold thrives in damp and wet conditions and spreads quickly. Homeowners with a mold problem need to call a specialist. Anyone who needs Mold Removal Melbourne FL needs to get help from a reputable company.

#1 Check the AC System

One of the most common causes of mold is a leaking air conditioner. The system can leak behind drywall and spread mold onto the carpet in the next room. Air conditioning systems cause a type of mold known as mucor which is highly allergenic. You will need to have the leak sealed and make the necessary repairs to get rid of the mold.

#2 Inspect the Foundation

If your landscaping is off just a bit you could become a mold victim. The drain system is supposed to move mold away from the home. However, there’s a slope in the landscaping that causes water to pool around the foundation. This scenario contributes to mold inside the home.

#3 The Basement

Aren’t all basements damp? That’s a definite no or at least they shouldn’t be. A damp basement smells horrible and gets moldy quickly. The basement sits below the ground and is particularly susceptible to leaks and water problems.

#4 Flooding

Mold is a fact of life if you’re the victim of a flood. These natural disasters bring rushing water into the home and a major clean-up is necessary. It takes a while for a house to dry up after a flood. Unfortunately, mold will grow and build up. Floods often trigger toxic mold growth.

#5 Wet Clothes

It’s not uncommon to forget there’s a load of clothes in the washer. Hopefully, the clothes don’t sit too long. Remember, mold begins growing in 24 hours. If the clothes are left too long, wash them again in hot water.

#6 Poor Ventilation

Never completely shutter your home if you leave for a while. There has to be a way for air to circulate. Mold naturally grows on surfaces in the home and a closed house is a perfect place for mold to grow.

#7 Condensation

Condensation is a factor in winter due to changing temperatures. It’s cold outside and warm on the inside. If condensation is a problem, open a window so air can circulate in that room. Further, be sure to check pipes and concrete surfaces for condensation.

#8 Leaking Roof

Be sure to inspect the roof on a regular basis for leaks. Leaky flashing and shingles let water get into your attic. This is a prime breeding ground for mold.

#9 Pipes

Pipes are everywhere in the home. Pipes are in the ceiling, under the floor, and in the walls. If pipes leak, mold grows behind the drywall. You may also notice mold on the ceiling and walls.

#10 Humidity

Your home is a molding target if you live where there’s a lot of humidity. Many homes located beside bodies of water have this problem. Make sure the home is well-ventilated.

Mole can be hazardous to your health. The elderly and young children are most at risk. Make sure to take the necessary precautions to keep your environment mold-free.

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7-tips-for-buying-scaffolding-and-formwork-online

Finding the right scaffolding and formwork can be tough. There are tons of options available online, but they are not all created equal. Given how essential these tools are to ensuring worker safety and getting the job done right, it’s worth taking the time to research options before placing an order. Read on to find seven tips for buying formwork and scaffolding online that will make the process easier.

1. Research the Formwork Supplier

On the surface, it may appear as though all scaffolding and formwork suppliers are the same. Unfortunately, that’s just not the case. Contractors need to research companies in advance to ensure that they actually have the skills and experience required to design safe, effective products. Those who don’t have time to research every online supplier can also visit Doka Formwork to learn about one reputable company that stands out from the rest.

2. Stick to the Standards

Every region of the world has different standards when it comes to formwork and scaffolding, and there’s a reason for them. Make sure the vendor works with other companies in the area and adheres to recognized regional standards. Avoid manufacturers that use unspecified materials. Check the standard numbers on scaffolding and formwork to make sure the materials are designed for that use before setting it up.

3. Avoid Knock-Offs

It’s not uncommon to find knock-off products online, and construction equipment is no exception. Bear in mind that even if knock-off products manufactured in China look like the real thing, they aren’t held to the same quality control standards. Buy directly from a reputable company instead of falling for deals that are too good to be true.

4. Embrace High-Tech Options

Today’s scaffolding and formwork may look simple, but they’re high-tech products. The advantages of spending extra money on high-tech formwork or scaffolding outweigh the higher initial expense. These options will be more adaptable, provide better stability, and avoid hassles on the job-site.

5. Ensure Traceability

Every formwork or scaffolding component should have a unique marking to indicate where it was manufactured. This common industry practice ensures that customers won’t have trouble tracking down parts if they experience equipment failures later down the line. It also says good things about the manufacturer. Manufacturers enhance traceability in part to make it easier to locate and quarantine defective products, indicating that they are willing to take responsibility for their scaffolding or formwork.

6. Look for Stellar Support

When contractors trust reputable suppliers, the chances of something going wrong are slim. It’s still important to work with a company that offers reliable tech support, though. No contractor wants to be left in the dark in the unlikely event that something goes wrong.

7. Inspect the Product

No matter how much homework contractors do before purchasing products, they should still inspect the formwork or scaffolding when it arrives. Make sure that the product delivered meets the expectations established during the sales phase. Check to see that it is properly sized and marked and that it has a good quality finish.

The Bottom Line

The ability to buy necessary equipment online gives modern contractors access to far more options than their predecessors had. All those options can make choosing the right products feel like an ordeal. As long as contractors follow the advice outlined above, they should wind up with exactly the scaffolding or formwork products they need to get the job done right.

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fireclay-and-your-homes-kitchen-design

You’re planning on finally renovating your out-dated kitchen. It’s far past time, and you’re eager to design the farmhouse-style kitchen of your dreams.

There’s a long road ahead of you as you design and start renovations in your kitchen. You’ll have to select cabinet colors, backsplash tile, and, most importantly, a quality sink.

Just as the kitchen is the center of your home life, the sink could be considered the center of your kitchen.

There are countless options for your kitchen sink. You can have a double or single-basin sink. It could be made of steel, ceramic, or granite. The latest trend for sinks is fireclay due to their durability and ceramic style.

Read on to find out why a fireclay sink would be perfect for your new kitchen.

Photo credit: Stuff.co

  What Is Fireclay?

Fireclay sinks are a type of ceramic sink composed of glazed clay heated at extremely hot temperatures (about 1600 degrees). They can take a hit, and they look sleek and soft in any kind of kitchen.

These sinks are also nonporous and heat resistant. They will also hold up against any scratching or scrubbing.

As a minor downside, however, they tend to be quite heavy, and it’s advised that if you are installing a fireclay sink, you should let professionals take care of the handling.

Fireclay Sink Aesthetic

While fireclay sinks look good almost anywhere, they are especially fitting for farmhouse or rustic kitchen designs.

They typically have a deep basin, and most popularly come in white or off-white, but there are other ideas for sink designs that would work in any kitchen you dream up.

You can add a painted or etched design that aligns with the rest of your interior design ideas. A double-basin sink or one with drainboards can alter the use of space depending on how you like to use your kitchen.

A fireclay farmhouse sink can withstand your family’s kitchen antics without wearing down easily.

Photo credit: Home Bunch

  Fireclay Sink Composition

Fireclay sinks are molded prior to being heated and glazed, so you have the flexibility to create any kind of sink shape that best fits your needs.

They are also easy to clean because of the smooth surface that won’t cling to dirt and grime. While they have a similar sleek look to granite and marble sinks, they are much more affordable.

  The Best Sink for Your Kitchen

Don’t underestimate the power of an amazing sink for your new kitchen design. Since the kitchen is the social hub of your home, the sink will be seen and admired often.

Regardless of the colors and new layout you decide on for your kitchen renovation, a fireclay sink can fit in with almost any design. And it’s bound to receive wonderful comments from your friends and family.

Fireclay sinks are cost-effective, long-lasting, and beautiful centerpieces for a home kitchen. Make it a part of your kitchen while you renovate.

For more interior design ideas and inspiration, find your muse on our blog.

SHOP KITCHEN…

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hassle-free-and-durable-building-materials-for-your-home

A home is a place where a family gathers to enjoy the warmth and make memories. With the harsh and unpredictable climate that most states experience, owners need a strong structure. When building a house, it is advisable to consider high-quality and resilient materials to enhance durability. It is possible to live in a residence where you rarely have to repaint the walls, replace the roof, or rebuild the deck.

Most durable building components need minimal maintenance. For example, you can opt for cedar, copper, slate, aluminum, and galvanized steel for the roof. Property owners always have a choice to go for relatively cheap materials that they will replace in a decade or two or pay more for a sturdy structure that will outlive them. They may also consider granite fabrication to make the home’s countertops durable and stylish.

What’s in a Roof?

Roofs are crucial because they shield the occupants of a home from the weather. The direct effects of freezing and thawing are felt most by the roof. When building a house, a low-maintenance roof is not one that lasts 20 years—it’s one that lasts for several decades or a lifetime. The cost of the materials and installation will determine how long the roof lasts. Some of the materials include:

· Clay tiles. Just like concrete, clay tiles can last up to 100 years.

· Slate. Although it may be challenging to source slate, this material may last for a century and beyond.

· Copper. Copper lasts for 70 years or more, but finding reliable installers may be a problem.

· Galvanized steel. Metal is ideal for snowy areas and can last for decades. However, high-quality metal roofs can be costly.

Why Invest in Indestructible Exteriors?

While appearances are always important, the exterior must withstand harsh weather conditions. Remember, the surfaces suffer the wrath of extreme weather conditions. Choosing the best materials is not enough because some builders may not know how to install them correctly.

Insist on sturdy materials that can withstand the repeated effects of freezing and thawing, and get them installed properly by a professional builder. The exterior trim may necessitate maintenance more than any other section. With your builder’s help, you could use the following:

· Fiber cement

· PVC· Aluminum

· Wood

Ensure Your Wood Siding is Low-Maintenance

Natural materials like cedar and redwood require minimal maintenance. For instance, materials like Western Red Cedar will be appealing even without applying any coating. In addition, cedar could last up to 60 years without the need for repairs or replacement.

However, after painting any wood, you may have to recoat it periodically. Although such maintenance costs were minimal in the past, things are different these days. Labor is relatively expensive, and so is the paint. Uncoated wood is ideal for any property, but it may attain a grey color as it ages.

Budget Materials Appropriately 

Some products, like uPVC windows and doors, are meant to be low-maintenance. However, employing the principle of proper installation applies. When installing the windows, it is imperative to hire experienced contractors to achieve the best results. Budget appropriately to ensure you get the best low-maintenance materials for the home.Scheduling maintenance and repairs is vital. All the low-maintenance materials, however good, require some care. Ensuring that preventive maintenance is done on time might guarantee low upkeep. It is important to work with a reputable professional that will work with your schedule.

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my-top-9-favorite-table-lamps

Let’s talk table lamps…I have been working with a client (updating her family room) and one of the key pieces in her space is lighting. I have been sourcing out (and am currently obsessed with voluminous table lamps)…I have found so many incredible options – I just had to share…

Table lamp inspo

What I am loving about these lamps is the amazing texture! I know I’m always presenting neutral options but what I love about neutral pieces is that the shape and texture can really add interesting visual elements to any room. These styles are perfect for a bedroom, entryway or living room – I love the voluminous shape and size of these options. Lighting can make a statement in your space and also be functional.

This entryway is a great example of an entryway with this style of lamp. It adds a great design element to this space — this space is neutral (black + white) with pops of gold really set a welcoming scene to this home.

Photo credit: Studio McGee

When it comes to shopping for a lamp I highly recommend sticking with a neutral tone – it’s versatile and classic. Lamps are definitely an item worth investing in, since they are used season to season – so be sure to think long term when it comes to buying lighting.

A few tips when it comes to purchasing a table lamp…

  1. When it comes to the correct height, think about the location of the lamp – is it beside the sofa? Be sure to base it on your eye level when sitting, you will want to make sure that when you sit down you are eye level with the bottom of the shade. This will make sure that the light is not shining directly into your eye.
  2. Your lampshade should never overlap the surface it is on. So for example if you are selecting a lamp for an entry console table make sure the lamp shade isn’t wider than the table it sits on.
  3. Be aware of the size of your room. A small and skinny lamp in a large room will look even smaller. Proportions are important.

Shop table lamps

  1. Fairfax table lamp
  2. Barstow ceramic table lamp
  3. LaBrea table lamp
  4. Miller ceramic table lamp
  5. Faris ceramic table lamp
  6. Maddox Terra cotta table lamp
  7. Tinney table lamp
  8. Tinney 1 light table lamp
  9. Latrobe taupe table lamp

I hope you love this round up of table lamps. Let me know which one is your favorite!

SHOP LIGHTING….

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