Keeping Air Clean During Construction

Whether you are making repairs, remodeling, adding a room or building a whole new structure, construction is a messy business. Fortunately, many contractors have become aware of the importance of keeping worksites neat and clean for the benefit of both clients and workers alike.

There is, however, one thing that workplace maintenance efforts don't always consider is air quality. Dust and debris can make it hazardous to breathe in the work area and affects both clients and workers alike. In situations where contractors are engaged in lead removal or asbestos abatement, air quality is of particular concern.

Another consideration is dampness. During construction, the area may be exposed to the elements, resulting in damp creeping in. This slows down the drywall drying process and can encourage the development of mold and mildew. Both can delay projects and force them to run over budget. In addition, there may be liability issues if mold becomes a persistent problem.

image:allamericanportableair.com

Fortunately, there is a way of purifying the air and reducing dampness in the area. Dehumidification systems, also known as air scrubbers, can be placed in the construction area and run continuously to help ensure that the air remains clean and dry.

The type and size of dehumidifier needed will depend on the size of the site as well as the conditions. A good dehumidifier will include a HEPA air filter which can filter out more than 99 percent of airborne particles.

There are other situations in which a dehumidifier may be called for. In situations where there has been a flood or burst pipes, an air scrubber can be very helpful in drawing out an area and reducing airborne contaminants until contractors can come in to address the situation.

Contractors and individuals who are in need of air purification services do not have to invest in the purchase of an advanced system. Instead, Companies like All American Portable Air can provide air scrubber rental services on an as-needed basis, with the option to purchase if desired. Equipment rental is a cost-effective way of protecting one's environment and health during construction or following a disaster.

Infographic: From Attic to the Ultimate Man Cave

How To Turn Your Attic Into The Ultimate Man Cave by Rubber Bond

Choosing a water filter For Family Backcountry Or International Travel

When hiking in the backcountry or doing some international travel with your family it is important to consider that water sources may have contaminates. Drinking unclean water can lead to a barrage of illnesses including parasites. It is hard to tell if a water source is clean as parasites are invisible so even crystal clear water may be teaming with bacteria. Locals from other countries will have a different tolerance to the microbes in water so you may get sick from water sources that they do not.  Therefore besides hiking gear, always make sure that you also bring a water filter or a water purifier. Water purifiers are different than water filters as water filters do not filter out viruses. A purifier typically uses chemicals or UV light whereas a water filter only removes large contaminants.

Some of the most common types of portable water filters are:

Pump Filter: This kind of filter allows the simple method of putting a hose into a water source and is very practical for smaller volumes of water due to the time and effort involved. Some added bonuses are that they can be used in very shallow water and have filters that are easily changed.

Gravity Filter: Using gravity to pull the water through a filter this method is great as energy expenditure is very low compared to the pump filter. The only real problems occur when it is difficult to find a place to hang. Also using it in shallow water conditions can be difficult.

Bottle Filter: A bottle filter is great but only for single person use. Some are designed to be used along with a straw and other styles have it more like a coffee type filter that you press through to catch all the particles. Given that only low volumes of water can be filtered at any time it would require the use of many to be sufficient for a family.

(Note:If you already have a backcountry water filter remember that with any filter repeatedly using it will cause it to become clogged. So be sure to clean it regularly)

When traveling out of the country, if you only use a filter designed for backcountry use, you may be at risk to viruses. Water filters typically only trap bacteria, debris and other protozoa and cannot catch the smaller viruses. A water filter can be used in tandem with a purifier firstly using it to filter out any large particles such as dirt and leaves. This is especially useful when having to filter a large volume of water. So if you are planning international travel be sure to travel with a water filter and a water purifier. Some water filters like the “Village Bucket” described businessconnectworld.com. Are actually water filters that also act as a water purifier. Using sediment which naturally causes viruses to clump together and get caught in the filter which is at the 0.1 micron level.

When considering which type of filter to use it is very important to consider the circumstances that they will be use. Ask yourself the question “will I need this for bacteria or viruses?” so sometimes a typical water filter will get the job done such as one that uses gravity for multiple people or a portable pocket sized straw filter. The easy of transport and the volume of water needing to be consumed should be your two most important means of determining which you should choose. If leaving the country you should always choose a water purifier or a water filter that is strong enough to filter at the 0.1 micron level.

15 Steel Homes You’ll Want To Move Into Today

There are three different types of constructions methods for Steel Building PA residential homes. The first is built using a steel frame, the second uses “I” beams which are generally used for modern architecture styles homes and the third involves building a superstructure from metal. Below is different example for the types of properties using these Prefab Metal Buildings methods:

1 – The Rustic Farmhouse

The rustic farmhouse is a dream home for those who want to get away from the crowds and live in a peaceful environment. It is a family home that is perfect for children to grow up in and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

2 - Gambrel Home

This type of home is small in size measuring around 1440 SQ feet. With a woodwork interior, it adds to the comfort and warmth. It is the perfect choice for someone who wants to build their own home and is easily erected by a small team of people. With the cost of under $25,000, it makes it a very appealing option for those who need to budget.

3 – The Barn Home

If you want a home with lots of space and stunning interior the Barn House is a perfect choice. With exposed woodwork along with high beamed ceilings and large living space, it is the perfect family home.

4 - The Farm Home

The farm home is huge in size and can easily accommodate a large family. With its wrap-around porch, it makes it perfect for enjoying the summer nights or hosting parties.

5 – The Metal Mansion

The metal mansion has everything a man could wish for in a home. It features a large man cave, huge living spaces, and massive hobby garage.

6 - The Modern Farmhouse

This is not a typical farmhouse as it is designed with huge open floor spaces, oversized windows, and an Ultra-modern design.

7 – The Statement House

This is no ordinary home as it's a unique Steel Building PA architecture with large open floor space along with luxurious interior design. With its exposed high beam ceilings, it provides a living space that delivers an airy and comfortable living space.

8 – The Hunting Lodge Home

If you are the outdoorsman type that wants to live away from the crowds this is the perfect home for you. It has a simple exterior but is warm and welcoming inside. It has rustic feel due to the wood paneling and with its large fireplace is a perfect place to cozy up over the winter months.

9 – The Zero Energy House

If you are conscientious about the environment then this home is a perfect solution due to its zero energy design.

10 – The Arched House

For those that are looking to build their own property on a tight budget, this is the home for you as prices start from only $10,000. It has a quirky design and is extremely energy-efficient.

11 – The Lake House

There is no better place to have a home than sat next to a beautiful lake. The home as elegant interior and original woodwork give it a rustic feel.

12 – The Log Cabin

If your dream is to live in the woods then buying a log cabin will fulfill it. From the outside, it does impress but once inside it has a warm interior and is spacious. It is the perfect getaway home and is fully fitted with all the modern equipment.

13 – The Modernist House

If you enjoy the countryside then this home constructed from metal is the perfect example of what can be achieved with Prefab Metal Buildings. It has a minimalist architecture which is elegant and simple.

14 – The Sprawling Ranch Property

This property won first prize in the Design Awards for American Residential custom construction. It has a brick exterior, wraparound porch and large garage that will fit two cars. With breathtaking views, a large open plan kitchen and spacious rooms, it is no surprise that it won the award.

15 – The Folksy Farmhouse

This property is a meticulous redesign farmhouse with a white exterior along with wraparound porch. It is extremely spacious and has an elegant design with large open floor space along with a clean interior.

These home designs are all the brainchild of North American company Americansteelspan.com. For a more details regarding these homes and other metal structures visit their site.

A Healthier Home Begins with Your HVAC System

As a result of recent health and safety research, people are now more aware how important indoor air quality improvement is for their well-being. Advances in technology have brought about several new products which make the air we breathe much safer and healthier. Before modern times, we didn’t even know that air-borne bacteria were a threat to our health. Now, bacteria and viruses are a well-known issue; and it is even standard for places such as hospitals to install air purification systems in their HVAC units to combat these invisible pathogens. There are other ways to improve the indoor air quality as well, and you can consult with your residential HVAC technician in Sacramento CA for more information.

Upgrade Your Air Filter

The most basic way to improve your indoor air quality is to install a better air filtering system. There are two new products that can do this. One is a media filter, and the other is an electrostatic air filter. A media filter is a highly efficient woven fiber filter that is generally between three to five inches thick. It’s meant to replace all of the one-inch filters throughout the home and is only changed once or twice a year. An electrostatic filter is washable and uses electric current and static electricity to catch microscopic particles and forms of bacteria as air passes through it.

Replace Your Ductwork

A duct network is highly susceptible to dust accumulation as well as microorganisms, especially the old fiberglass box-type ducts. Whatever particles may have gotten through your old air filters are now clinging to the inside of the duct system. Really, the only way to completely clean it is to replace it altogether. You can even ask your technician to install one of the new eco-friendly ductwork systems. These ducts are even more efficient at trapping the temperature inside them, preventing heat from leaking in or out of them, ultimately saving you money on your utility bill and reducing your carbon footprint.

Consider Ultraviolet Devices

Hospitals have used UV-C Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation for decades. Now, a form of this technology is cost-efficient enough for residential use. So what is it? Basically, UV-C is a spectrum of light that kills microorganisms. In the HVAC industry, a technician installs one or several bulbs emitting ultraviolet light on the inside of the air handling unit to prevent the growth and spread of harmful viruses and bacteria. There is even a model that goes inside the ductwork to constantly purify and sanitize the air.

If you or anyone in your home suffers from allergies, stuffy nose, or asthma, these could be symptoms of poor indoor air quality in the home. You’ll want to contact an experienced HVAC system installer and repair facility in order to ensure your indoor air quality stands to be improved. Consulting with professionals, along with a family doctor, helps to ensure your home is the healthiest place to be.