tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11974624928378788352024-03-17T20:03:13.972-07:00C & E's Constructive BlogsResource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-4810929361709807392020-10-27T18:24:00.005-07:002020-10-27T18:24:57.249-07:00Insulate an Attic the Right Way!<p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">In the winter you need to keep the heat from escaping, and in the summer, the heat from entering. If you insulated just under the roof at the top if the attic, you would be heating the attic area in the winter. That's because the outside insulated wall would be at the roof and not at the ceiling. If you had central air conditioning, the same would be true in the summer when you'd be forced to cool the whole attic.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ltbg6EI58xo/X5jG3-DN9zI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/Tjab_IEQ8IMCVMOMBug3fn9DhZNqnxMMACLcBGAsYHQ/s539/insulation-options.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="358" data-original-width="539" height="274" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ltbg6EI58xo/X5jG3-DN9zI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/Tjab_IEQ8IMCVMOMBug3fn9DhZNqnxMMACLcBGAsYHQ/w412-h274/insulation-options.jpg" width="412" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Another important factor in attic insulation is ventilation. The attic area above the insulation needs to be kept cold in the winter to prevent ice dams from forming on the roof and to keep moisture from condensing on the insulation and on the roof framing. This is achieved by ventilating the attic. In the summer months, a well-ventilated attic and the actual roof above it, will stay cooler by allowing excess heat to escape through vents thereby keeping the living space below cooler.</span></p><p><br /></p>Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0Houston, TX, USA29.7604267 -95.36980281.4501928638211545 -130.5260528 58.070660536178849 -60.2135528tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-80304784452055656162020-07-07T17:00:00.001-07:002020-07-07T17:00:02.029-07:00Be Weary When Asked Do You Provide This Service and Do You Accept CC as Payment via TextAlthough it’s not a topic that gets as much attention as many others within the processing industry, merchant accounts holds are something that every business needs to understand. If a business doesn’t understand the basics of merchant account holds, they may be completely blindsided in the event of any of their funds being held. Since that can directly interfere with cash flow, knowing why merchant account holds happen and what can be done to decrease the likelihood of a hold occurring is very beneficial for businesses of all sizes.<div><br /><div>Be sure to keep an eye out and look for these telltale signs that you may be dealing with a fraudster.</div><div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>New customers contact you via text and ask if you accept credit cards</li><li>Emails from domains like outlook.com & fastmail.com</li><li>Being asked to pay a third party by wire transfer or Western Union.</li><li>Poor grammar and spelling mistakes in communications.</li><li>Failed payment attempts by the customer who then asks you to process for them</li></ul></div>
<h4><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OdgnpGur0UM/Xv0yKSY7bAI/AAAAAAAAB5M/RFHGMpHifH8KCc90J1I8q4WWc2-WiLosACK4BGAsYHg/s590/possible-scam-alert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="230" data-original-width="590" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OdgnpGur0UM/Xv0yKSY7bAI/AAAAAAAAB5M/RFHGMpHifH8KCc90J1I8q4WWc2-WiLosACK4BGAsYHg/s320/possible-scam-alert.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></span></h4><h4><strong><u>Merchant Account Holds 101</u></strong></h4>
The term merchant account hold refers to a situation where a processing bank freezes the merchant account of a business. When a merchant account hold occurs, a business won’t be able to access its account. Other effects of this situation include funds from open authorizations being held for a potentially extended period of time, an inability to process any new transactions and income not being deposited for weeks or even longer.<br />
Suspected fraud is the most common reason merchant account holds occur. There are situations where an individual opens a merchant account and then carries out some kind of fraud. However, it’s much more common for a legitimate business to experience a hold because the processor is going on the defensive against some other kind of suspected fraud.<br />
<h4>
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>5 Reasons Merchant Account Holds Occur</strong></span></h4>
Excessive chargebacks are the first reason merchant account holds occur. One of the biggest misconceptions is when a business wins a chargeback case, it’s not counted against them. In reality, processors track the total number of chargebacks a business receives regardless of outcome. And if too many occur, it can result in a hold.<br />
The second reason a hold may happen is a business processes in excess of declared volume and average ticket size. This is information that needs to be declared accurately when signing up with a processor. Third on the list is using an account to accept payment for services or goods that are undisclosed. Directly related to this is the next cause, which is accepting payments for other businesses.<br />
Finally, the last reason a hold may occur is suspicious processing behavior. Of all the potential triggers for a hold, this can be the most ambiguous. A business may simply receive notice and have to figure out the how to deal with a hold from there.<br />
<h4>
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>How to Reduce the Likelihood of a Hold</strong></span></h4>
While the thought of receiving a merchant account hold can be quite scary, the good news is there are steps any business can take to minimize the chances of this happening. The first is to accurately declare volume and average ticket information and update if needed. It’s also important to avoid processing payments for undisclosed services or goods, as well as other businesses.<br />
And since suspicious processing behavior can also trigger a hold, businesses should make sure they fully understand merchant account fraud and the best ways to protect themselves.</div></div>Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-62298764595399641832020-06-30T21:19:00.001-07:002020-06-30T21:20:07.185-07:00What's Your Good Impression? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>WE COUNT ON DOORS TO MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION. </b>This can be accomplished in three ways: Repair and paint or stain; attach new hardware; or replace them. Paint or stain is inexpensive and quick. New hardware offers an old door a new lease on life. Doors that are damaged, warped, or just out of style should be replaced.<br />
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If you want a professional-looking job, follow the advice of professional painters and finishers:<br />
<ul>
<li>Prep work is the most important part of painting or staining. Prep may take 80 to 90 percent of the total time for a project.</li>
<li>Always prime whatever surface you're about to paint. Primer seals any stains in the surface below it and improves adhesion of the finish coat.</li>
<li>The door will never look any better than what's underneath. Scratches, gouges, and discoloration will show right through the most expensive products. Sand, seal, and fill before you apply the finish.</li>
<li>Apply paint or stain generously. Use enough to get complete, uniform coverage.</li>
<li>Start with the edges. You can roll extra paint up onto the wider surface and work it into that paint.</li>
<li>Mask surfaces you don't want to paint or stain and work in well-ventilated spaces. Wear a respirator and rubber gloves as required by manufacturer of the product you're using</li>
<li>Keep your work area clean and free of dust.</li>
</ul>
Or book your project with us at <a href="http://www.cne-gc.net/booknow.htm" target="_blank">C & E General Contractors, Inc</a>! Check out our website @ <a href="http://www.cne-gc.net/">www.cne-gc.net</a><br />
<br />Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0Stafford, TX, USA29.6160671 -95.55772209999997829.5608541 -95.638403099999977 29.671280099999997 -95.47704109999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-42609760870092650042015-06-23T15:50:00.001-07:002015-06-23T15:59:34.909-07:00The Great Misconception: Construction Contracting's Cost Structure By Matt Stevens PhD <span style="font-size: large;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1435098260374_8274">Every type of business can be classified into one of two informal cost categories: <em id="yui_3_16_0_1_1435098260374_8291">Fixed or Variable</em>. Each of these have dramatically different characteristics. Consequently, those who want to successfully manage either type of business have to act in certain ways. <span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1435098260374_8276">Construction contracting is a variable cost business. This characteristic is very important to understand in situations such as planning for growth, project selection or negotiating with a client. Not to realize this may lead to some poor operational and financial decisions. Our observation has been this is a critical strategic and business understanding one must have about construction contracting. </span></span></span>Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.comStafford, TX, USA29.6160671 -95.55772209999997829.5608541 -95.638403099999977 29.671280099999997 -95.47704109999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-89454933702618840712015-03-12T10:46:00.000-07:002015-03-12T09:52:29.662-07:00Ways to Avoid Costly Repairs<div style="text-align: right;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>FROM CLOGGED GUTTERS TO BROKEN SHINGLES AND MOLD, HOME REPAIRS CAN EASILY ADD UP </b>— especially with all the precipitation and cold weather this time of year.<br /><br />The costs of home ownership stretch far beyond mortgage payments, property taxes and insurance.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Inspect Your Foundation </span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">Routinely Unclog Your Gutters </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Look For Exterior Leaks <br />Inspect Your Roof <br />Change Heating or Furnace Filters <br />Replace Hoses in Laundry Room <br />Remove Build-Up in Your Water Heater </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />Before attempting to do any repairs, learn how to do them properly or better yet, hire a professional, like us. The cost of having a repair done right is cheaper than repairing a "bad" fix. Visit us at <a href="http://www.cne-gc.net/">www.cne-gc.net</a></span><br />
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Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0Stafford, TX, USA29.6160671 -95.55772209999997829.5608541 -95.638403099999977 29.671280099999997 -95.47704109999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-73180360033403244472014-11-28T06:00:00.000-08:002014-11-14T16:29:37.636-08:00Wanting A Job In The Construction Industry? Serving In The Greater Houston Area<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NRg5BQkRqfs/T-3JeaIQaiI/AAAAAAAAAEk/FWHESgy0p6Q/s1600/JobEventPIC2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NRg5BQkRqfs/T-3JeaIQaiI/AAAAAAAAAEk/FWHESgy0p6Q/s400/JobEventPIC2.jpg" height="400" width="280" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"><span itemprop="description"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>W</b></span>e are looking for licensed electricians and plumbers for upcoming projects.</span> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"><span itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>I</b></span>n the midst of hurricane season, </span></span><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"> C & E General Contractors are in search for laborers whom<span class="paragraph_text"> demonstrate a good persistence in their professional orientation.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-large;"><span itemprop="description" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>I</b></span>f you have any craft or trade workers' experience</span><span style="font-size: large;"> and passionate about the construction industry today, visit our site and fill out an <<<<a href="http://www.cne-gc.net/employmentregistry.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e8141b;">APPLICATION</span></a>>>>.</span> </span></div>
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Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0Stafford, TX, USA29.6160671 -95.55772209999997829.5608541 -95.638403099999977 29.671280099999997 -95.47704109999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-34193913870068400162013-06-12T07:22:00.000-07:002013-06-12T07:22:52.772-07:00Hurricane Facts<ol style="text-align: justify;">
<li> Hurricanes are giant, spiraling tropical storms that can pack
wind speeds of over 160 miles an hour and unleash more than 2.4 trillion
gallons of rain a day. These same tropical storms are known as cyclones
in the northern Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal, and as typhoons in the
western Pacific Ocean. </li>
<li> The Atlantic Ocean’s hurricane season peaks from mid-August to late October and averages five to six hurricanes per year. </li>
<li> When they come onto land, the heavy rain, strong winds and heavy
waves can damage buildings, trees and cars. The heavy waves are called a
storm surge. </li>
<li> Storm surges are very dangerous and a major reason why you MUST
stay away from the ocean during a hurricane warning or hurricane. </li>
<li> Hurricanes rotate in a counter-clockwise direction around the eye.
The rotating storm clouds create the "eye wall”, which is the most
destructive part of the storm. </li>
<li>The difference between a tropical storm and a hurricane is wind
speed – tropical storms usually bring winds of 36-47 miles per hour,
whereas hurricane wind speeds are over 74 miles per hour.</li>
<li>Hurricanes are classified into five categories, based on their wind speeds and potential to cause damage.
<ul><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CZxDR2e4_6k/UDu4akFY6GI/AAAAAAAAAFI/WkxwU2tVDlw/s1600/hurricane-facts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CZxDR2e4_6k/UDu4akFY6GI/AAAAAAAAAFI/WkxwU2tVDlw/s200/hurricane-facts.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li> Category One -- Winds 74-95 miles per hour </li>
<li> Category Two -- Winds 96-110 miles per hour </li>
<li> Category Three -- Winds 111-130 miles per hour </li>
<li> Category Four -- Winds 131-155 miles per hour </li>
<li> Category Five -- Winds greater than 155 miles per hour </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li> Hurricanes are named to help us identify and track them as they
move across the ocean. For Atlantic Ocean hurricanes, the names may be
French, Spanish or English, since these are the major languages
bordering the Atlantic Ocean where the storms occur. </li>
<li> Sometimes names are "retired" if a hurricane has been really big
and destructive. It's like when a sports jersey or number is retired
after a really great athlete leaves a sport. Retired names include
Katrina, Andrew and Mitch. </li>
<li> The costliest hurricane to hit landfall was Hurricane Katrina, a
Category 5 storm that slammed Louisiana in August of 2005. Damages cost
an estimated $91 billion. </li>
<li> The deadliest U.S. hurricane on record was a Category 4 storm that
hit the island city of Galveston, Texas, on September 8th, 1900. Some
8,000 people lost their lives when the island was destroyed by 15-foot
waves and 130-mile-an-hour winds. </li>
</ol>
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<a name='more'></a><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b><br />Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-10172318085161023122013-06-03T13:50:00.000-07:002013-06-03T13:50:09.161-07:00London Bridge is Falling Down, Falling Down. . .<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-utl-j3MtaRI/Uazr_gMo_AI/AAAAAAAAAN0/OmejGSpReFQ/s1600/London-Bridge-is-Falling-Down1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-utl-j3MtaRI/Uazr_gMo_AI/AAAAAAAAAN0/OmejGSpReFQ/s200/London-Bridge-is-Falling-Down1.gif" width="191" /></a>Ever think about the bridges you cross on your way to work? So I came across this article today, and I immediately started reminiscing this nursery rhyme... Here is an image for dramatic effect:<br />
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<br />
On a serious note, how many bridges have fallen? And how many are at the risk of collapsing? Hundreds? I read an article that claims thousands are at the risk of giving in . . .<br />
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<h1 class="f28">
<span style="font-size: large;">Thousands of Bridges at Risk of Freak Collapse</span></h1>
<div class="f13 mt10">
By: Mike Baker and Joan Lowy - ASSOCIATED PRESS</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-42CcQ3oRUCs/Uaz9JZt9-GI/AAAAAAAAAOA/OmJ237IbYn0/s1600/1369376263000-AP-I-5-Bridge-Collapse-003-1305240219_4_3_rx404_c534x401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-42CcQ3oRUCs/Uaz9JZt9-GI/AAAAAAAAAOA/OmJ237IbYn0/s320/1369376263000-AP-I-5-Bridge-Collapse-003-1305240219_4_3_rx404_c534x401.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
A portion of the Interstate 5 bridge is submerged after it collapsed
into the Skagit River, dumping vehicles and people into the water in
Mount Vernon, Wash., May 23, according to the Washington State Patrol.
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wLGMWga5ZMw/Uaz9QP6JX5I/AAAAAAAAAOI/3fzBgwlCi8w/s1600/I-35W-bridge_collapse-Minneapolis-20070801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wLGMWga5ZMw/Uaz9QP6JX5I/AAAAAAAAAOI/3fzBgwlCi8w/s320/I-35W-bridge_collapse-Minneapolis-20070801.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="f13 mt10">
The most famous failure of a fracture critical bridge was the collapse
of the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis during rush hour on Aug. 1, 2007,
killing 13 people and injuring more than 100 others.<br />__________________________________________________________________</div>
<article id="storyBody">
SEATTLE (AP) Thousands of bridges around the United States may be
one freak accident or mistake away from collapse, even if the spans are
deemed structurally sound.<br />
<br />
The crossings are kept standing by
engineering design, not supported with brute strength or redundant
protections like their more modern counterparts. Bridge regulators call
the more risky spans "fracture critical," meaning that if a single,
vital component of the bridge is compromised, it can crumple.<br />
<br />
Those
vulnerable crossings carry millions of drivers every day. In Boston, a
six-lane highway 1A near Logan airport includes a "fracture critical"
bridge over Bennington Street. In northern Chicago, an I-90 pass that
goes over Ashland Avenue is in the same category. An I-880 bridge over
5th Avenue in Oakland, Calif., also is on the list.<br />
<br />
Also in that
category is the Interstate 5 bridge over the Skagit River north of
Seattle, which collapsed into the water after officials say an oversized
truck load clipped the steel truss.<br />
<br />
Public officials have
focused in recent years on the desperate need for money to repair
thousands of bridges deemed structurally deficient, which typically
means a major portion of the bridge is in poor condition or worse. But
the bridge that collapsed May 23 is not in that deficient category,
highlighting another major problem with the nation’s infrastructure:
Although it’s rare, some bridges deemed to be fine structurally can
still be crippled if they are struck hard enough in the wrong spot.<br />
<br />
</article>
<div style="float: left; padding-right: 10px;">
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<article id="storyBody">
<br />
"It probably is a bit of a fluke in that sense," said
Charles Roeder, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at
the University of Washington.<br />
<br />
While the I-5 truck’s cargo
suffered only minimal damage, it left chaos in its wake, with two
vehicles catapulting off the edge of the broken bridge into the river
below. Three people involved escaped with non-life threatening injuries.<br />
<br />
The most famous failure of a fracture critical bridge was the
collapse of the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis during rush hour on Aug. 1,
2007, killing 13 people and injuring more than 100 others. The <a href="http://www.constructionequipmentguide.com/manufacturer/national/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">National</a>
Transportation Safety Board concluded that the cause of the collapse
was an error by the bridge’s designers — a gusset plate, a key component
of the bridge, was too thin. The plate was only half of the required
one-inch thickness.<br />
<br />
Because the bridge’s key structures lacked
redundancy, where if one piece fails, there is another piece to prevent
the bridge from falling, when the gusset plate broke, much of the bridge
collapsed.<br />
<br />
Mark Rosenker, who was chairman of the NTSB during
the I-35W bridge investigation, said the board looked into whether other
fracture critical bridges were collapsing. They found a few cases, but
not many, he said.<br />
<br />
"Today, they’re still building fracture critical bridges with the belief that they’re not going break," Rosenker said.<br />
<br />
Fracture
critical bridges, like the I-5 span in Washington, are the result of
Congress trying to cut corners to save money rather than a lack of
engineering know-how, said Barry B. LePatner, a New York real estate
attorney and author of "Too Big to Fall: America’s Failing
Infrastructure and the Way Forward."<br />
<br />
Approximately 18,000 fracture
critical bridges were built from the mid-1950s through the late 1970s
in an effort to complete the nation’s interstate highway system, which
was launched under President Dwight Eisenhower, LePatner said in an
interview. The fracture critical bridge designs were cheaper than
bridges designed with redundancy, he said.<br />
<br />
Thousands of those bridges remain in use, according to an AP analysis.<br />
<br />
"They
have been left hanging with little maintenance for four decades now,"
he said. "There is little political will and less political leadership
to commit the tens of billions of dollars needed" to fix them.<br />
<br />
There
has been little focus or urgency in specifically replacing the older
"fracture critical" crossings, in part because there is a massive
backlog of bridge repair work for thousands of bridges deemed to be
structurally problematic. Washington state Rep. Judy Clibborn, a
Democrat who leads the House transportation committee, has been trying
to build support for a tax package to pay for major transportation
projects in the state. But her plan wouldn’t have done anything to
revamp the bridge that collapsed.<br />
<br />
National bridge records say the
I-5 crossing over the Skagit River had a sufficiency rating of 57.4 out
of 100 — a score designed to gauge the ability of the bridge to remain
in service. To qualify for federal replacement funds, a bridge must have
a rating of 50 or below. A bridge must have a sufficiency rating of 80
or below to qualify for federal rehabilitation funding.<br />
<br />
Hundreds
of bridges in Washington state have worse ratings than the one that
collapsed, and many around the country have single-digit ratings.<br />
<br />
Clibborn
said the Skagit River crossing wasn’t even on the radar of lawmakers
because state officials have to prioritize by focusing on bridges with
serious structural problems that are at higher risk of imminent danger.<br />
<br />
Along
with being at risk of a fatal impact, the I-5 bridge was deemed to be
"functionally obsolete," which essentially means it wasn’t built to
today’s standards. Its shoulders were narrow, and it had low clearance.<br />
<br />
There
are 66,749 structurally deficient bridges and 84,748 functionally
obsolete bridges in the United States, including Puerto Rico, according
to the Federal Highway Administration. That’s about a quarter of the
607,000 total bridges nationally. States and cities have been whittling
down that backlog, but slowly. In 2002, about 30 percent of bridges fell
into one of those two categories.<br />
<br />
Spending by states and local
government on bridge construction adjusted for inflation has more than
doubled since 1998, from $12.3 billion to $28.5 billion last year,
according to the American Road and Transportation Builders Association.
That’s an all-time high.<br />
<br />
"The needs are so great that even with
the growth we’ve had in the investment level, it’s barely moving the
needle in terms of moving bridges off these lists," said Alison Premo
Black, the association’s chief economist.<br />
<br />
There is wide
recognition at all levels of government that the failure to address
aging infrastructure will likely undermine safety and hinder economic
growth. But there is no consensus on how to pay for improvements. The
federal Highway Trust Fund, which provides construction aid to states,
is forecast to go broke next year. The fund gets its revenue primarily
from federal gas and diesel taxes. But revenues aren’t keeping up
because people are driving less and there are more fuel-efficient cars
on the road.<br />
<br />
Neither Congress nor the White House has shown any
willingness to raise federal gas taxes, which haven’t been increased
since 1993. Many transportation thinkers believe a shift to taxes based
on miles traveled by a vehicle is inevitable, but there are privacy
concerns and other difficulties that would preclude widespread use of
such a system for at least a decade.<br />
<br />
Transportation spending got a
temporary boost with the economic stimulus funds approved by Congress
after President Barack Obama was elected. Of the $27 billion designated
for highway projects under the stimulus program, about $3 billion went
to bridge projects, Black said.<br />
<br />
States are looking for other
means to raise money for highway and bridge improvements, including more
road tolls, dedicating a portion of sales taxes to transportation and
raising state gas taxes. Clibborn, the Washington state lawmaker, has
proposed a 10-cent gas hike to help pay for projects, though the effort
has been held up by a dispute over how to rebuild the Columbia River
bridge connecting Vancouver, Wash., and Portland, Ore.<br />
<br />
"We can’t possibly do it all in the next 10 years, but we’re going to do the first bite of the apple," Clibborn said.<br />
<br />
</article>
<div class="articleFooter">
Region: <a href="http://www.constructionequipmentguide.com/pages/news/national/">National Edition</a> | StoryID: 20518 | Published On: 6/3/2013<br />
<br />
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Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-14506167297601159882013-03-23T11:00:00.000-07:002013-03-23T09:09:40.397-07:00Put the Right Floor in the Right Place<br />
Following is a list of various types of floors and where you can install them.<br />
<br />
<ul><a href="https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/197994_537723319588816_1900386275_a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="photo_img img" src="https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/197994_537723319588816_1900386275_a.jpg" /></a>
<li><b>Solid wood floors</b> can be installed above grade
(ground level), but not below. The preferred subfloor is 3/4-inch CD
grade exterior (CDZ) plywood. You can also use 3/4-inch Oriented Strand
Board (OSB) underlayment, 5/8-inch CDX, or tongue-and-groove
subflooring.</li>
<li><b>Parquet floors</b> can be installed above grade, but
not below. The preferred subfloors are 3/4-inch CDX plywood or 3/4-inch
OSB. You can also apply parquet over 5/8-inch CDX or existing solid wood
flooring.<span class="photo_right"></span></li>
<li><b>Engineered wood</b> can be installed above or below
grade. Recommendations on use in bathrooms varies by manufacturer. This
cannot be installed on moist or damp floors. If it is applied over a
crawlspace, there must be at least 24 inches between the bottom of the
joists and the ground.</li>
<li><b>Laminate floors</b> can be installed above or below
grade and over radiant heat. Recommendations on use in bathrooms varies
by manufacturer. Laminate can go over almost any subfloor, including
concrete slabs, ceramic tile, stone, vinyl sheet and tile, chipboard,
particleboard, and terrazzo. If installed over a crawlspace, there must
be at least 24 inches between the bottom of the joists and the ground.</li>
<li><b>Sheet vinyl</b> can be installed above or below grade
over existing sheet vinyl, linoleum, tile, new plywood, concrete,
ceramic tile, or marble. Do not apply over lauan. Some plywoods are made
especially to be used as underlayments for vinyl.</li>
<li><b>Vinyl tile</b> is not recommended below grade. Install
over smooth, single-layer vinyl floors that are firmly attached, dry
concrete, and wood floors with a plywood overlay. Do not apply over
lauan.</li>
<li><b>Ceramic and stone</b> can be installed above or below
grade and over radiant heat. Suitable subfloors include cement
backerboard, or concrete. They cannot be installed over moist or damp
floors.</li>
<li><b>Carpeting </b>can go over almost any subfloor. If planning to use it below grade, make sure the carpet you have in mind is suitable.</li>
</ul>
Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-60292415604482211292013-03-18T18:57:00.003-07:002013-03-18T19:00:34.755-07:00Some Considerations of Sustainability...<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GACdw05DHs4/UJqe-bTnOoI/AAAAAAAAAIE/-jva6rJPyec/s1600/047007468X.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GACdw05DHs4/UJqe-bTnOoI/AAAAAAAAAIE/-jva6rJPyec/s320/047007468X.jpg" width="238" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<h2>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">... in Steel Frame </span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Construction</span></h2>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Manufacture</b></span></div>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The raw materials for steel are iron ore, coal, limestone, air, and water. The ore, coal, and limestone are minerals whose mining and quarrying cause disruption of land and loss of wildlife habitat, often coupled with pollution of stre<span style="font-size: small;">ams and rivers. Coal, limestone, and low-grade iron ore are plentiful, but high-grade iron ore has been depleted in many areas of the earth.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Supplies of some <span style="font-size: small;">alloying metals, such as manganese, chromium, and nickel, are becoming depleted.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The manufacture of a ton of steel from iron ore by the basic<span style="font-size: small;"> oxygen process consumes 3170 pounds of ore, 300 pounds of limestone, 900 pounds of coke (made from coal), 80 pounds of oxygen, and 2575<span style="font-size: small;"> pounds of air. In the process, 4550 pounds of gaseous emissions are given off, and 600 pounds of slag and 50 pounds of dust are generated. Further emissions emanate from the process of converting coal to coke.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The steel industry has worked hard to reduce pollution of air, water, and soil, but much work remains to be done.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The embodied energy of steel produced<span style="font-size: small;"> from ore is about 19,200 BTU/pound.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Most structural steel in North America is made from recycled scrap; its embodied energy is only about 39 percent of that of steel made from ore.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">S<span style="font-size: small;">i</span>xty-six percent of all<span style="font-size: small;"> steel in eventually re<span style="font-size: small;">cycled, which is a very high rate. In a recent 10-year period, 1.2 trillion tons o<span style="font-size: small;">f steel were recycled worldwide. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Construction</span></b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWq11MTJnd4/UUfF5k5OdMI/AAAAAAAAAKw/zbdoA0VBGeo/s1600/image_slideshow_f09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWq11MTJnd4/UUfF5k5OdMI/AAAAAAAAAKw/zbdoA0VBGeo/s320/image_slideshow_f09.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stee<span style="font-size: small;">l fabrication and erection are relatively clean, efficient processes, although the paints and oils used on steel members can cause air pollution.</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Steel fram<span style="font-size: small;">es are light in weight as compared to concrete and masonry frames <span style="font-size: small;">that would</span></span> do the <span style="font-size: small;">s<span style="font-size: small;">ame job. Thi<span style="font-size: small;">s means that a steel building generally has smaller foundations and requires less excavation work.</span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Some spray-on fireproofing materials can pollute the air with stray fibers.</span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">In Service</span></b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Steel framing, if prot<span style="font-size: small;">ected from water and fire, will last for many generations with little or no maintenance.</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Steel exposed to weather needs to be repainted periodically unless it is galvanized or given a long-lasting polymer coating.</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Steel framing members in building walls and roofs should be thermally broken or insulated in such a way that they do not conduct heat between indoors and outdoors.</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">When a steel building frame is demolished, its material is almost always recycled.</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Steel seldom causes indoor air quality problems, although surface oils and protective coating sometimes outgas and cause occupant discomfort.</span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></span>Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-24889489946219311492013-01-29T09:55:00.000-08:002013-01-29T10:26:54.018-08:00The History of Clay Brick<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">After researching the history of
clay brick, it has been told that the first brick probably was made in the
Middle East, between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, in what is now Iraq. Early
builders here relied on the abundant natural materials to make their sun-baked
bricks. However, these were of limited use because they lacked durability and
couldn’t be used outdoors. Exposure to the elements caused them to
disintegrate. The Babylonians, who later dominated Mesopotamia, were the first
to fire bricks, from which many of their tower-temples were constructed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">From the Middle East the art of
brickmaking spread west to what is now Egypt and east to Persia and India.
Although the Greeks, having a plentiful supply of stone, did not use much
brick, evidence of brick kilns and structures remains throughout the Roman Empire.
However, with the decline and fall of Rome, brickmaking in Europe soon
diminished. It did not resume until the 1200s, when the Dutch made bricks that
they seem to have exported to England. In the Americas, people began to use
brick during the sixteenth century. It was the Dutch, however, who were
considered expert craftsmen. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Prior to the mid-1800s, people made
bricks in small batches, relying on relatively inefficient firing methods. One
of the most widely used was an open clamp, in which bricks were placed on a
fire beneath a layer of dirt and used bricks. As the fire died down over the
course of several weeks, the bricks fired. Such methods gradually became
obsolete after 1865, when the Hoffmann<u><span style="color: blue;"> </span></u>kiln
was invented in Germany. Better suited to the manufacture of large numbers of
bricks, this kiln contained a series of compartments through which stacked
bricks were transferred for pre-heating, burning, and cooling. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Brickmaking improvements have
continued into the twentieth century. Improvements include rendering brick shape
absolutely uniform, lessening weight, and speeding up the firing process. For
example, modern bricks are seldom solid. Some are pressed into shape, which
leaves a depression, on their top surface. Others are extruded with holes that
will later expedite the firing process by exposing a larger amount of surface
area to heat. Both techniques lessen weight without reducing strength. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">However, while the production
process has definitely improved, the market for brick has not. Brick does have
the largest share of the opaque materials market for commercial building, and
it continues to be used as a siding material in the housing industry. However,
other siding materials such as wood, stucco, aluminum, plaster, and vinyl are
strong competitors because they cost up to 50 percent less, and some (notably
stucco and plaster) offer built-in insulation.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To produce brick, the raw materials
are first crushed and ground in a jaw crusher. Next, the ingredients are formed
using one of several methods. In extrusion, the pulverized ingredients are
mixed together with water, passed into a de-airing chamber (to prevent cracking),
compacted, and extruded out of a die of the desired shape. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KdjcjR66Oec/UQgLkXYfyOI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/R_bSjUIzW5o/s1600/220px-JetawanaStupa1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KdjcjR66Oec/UQgLkXYfyOI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/R_bSjUIzW5o/s1600/220px-JetawanaStupa1.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The ancient Jetavanaramaya stupa in
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka is one of the largest brick structures in the world.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zubPT5Qs_U/UQgLv76KZXI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/gfoMoAo50gM/s1600/220px-LandshutStMartin01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zubPT5Qs_U/UQgLv76KZXI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/gfoMoAo50gM/s1600/220px-LandshutStMartin01.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
world's highest brick tower of St. Martin's Church is in Landshut, Germany,
completed in 1500.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pVQXAmSCDlc/UQgMS6cMWZI/AAAAAAAAAKE/Ht-xFd5gGU0/s1600/220px-Historic_brick_street_in_Natchitoches,_LA_IMG_1943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pVQXAmSCDlc/UQgMS6cMWZI/AAAAAAAAAKE/Ht-xFd5gGU0/s1600/220px-Historic_brick_street_in_Natchitoches,_LA_IMG_1943.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> The historic
brick street lays in Natchitoches, Louisiana.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-INkHEchvvuY/UQgMyc9A4GI/AAAAAAAAAKc/lRRyfOK8bwc/s1600/220px-Trier_Basilika_Electoral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-INkHEchvvuY/UQgMyc9A4GI/AAAAAAAAAKc/lRRyfOK8bwc/s1600/220px-Trier_Basilika_Electoral.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Roman Basilica Aula Palatina
in Trier, Germany, was built with fired bricks in the 4th century, as an
audience hall for Constantine I.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5r2_SU7ns6Q/UQgMS_TFbdI/AAAAAAAAAKM/s_2YgcHyVw4/s1600/220px-Panorama_of_Malbork_Castle,_part_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5r2_SU7ns6Q/UQgMS_TFbdI/AAAAAAAAAKM/s_2YgcHyVw4/s1600/220px-Panorama_of_Malbork_Castle,_part_4.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Malbork Castle is the biggest brick castle in the world.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R6rg0VTKgWI/UQgMS5ylfjI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/ZqR-UDvB7cQ/s1600/220px-Shebli2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R6rg0VTKgWI/UQgMS5ylfjI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/ZqR-UDvB7cQ/s1600/220px-Shebli2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> The brickwork of Shebeli Tower in Iran displays 12th century
craftsmanship.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">According to the U.S. Industrial
Outlook, the use of brick as a siding material for single-family homes dropped
from 26 percent in 1984 to 17 percent in 1989. Currently, the use of brick has
remained steady, at around seven to nine billion a year, down from the 15
billion used annually during the early 1900s. In an effort to increase demand,
the brick industry continues to explore alternative markets and to improve
quality and productivity. Fuel efficiency has also improved, and by the year
2025 brick manufacturers may even be firing their brick with solar energy.
However, such changes in technology will occur only if there is still a demand
for brick.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Even if this demand continues, the
brick industry both here and abroad faces another challenge: it will soon be
forced to comply with environmental regulations, especially in the area of
fluorine emissions. Fluorine, a byproduct of the brickmaking process, is a
highly reactive element that is dangerous to humans. Long-term exposure can
cause kidney and liver damage, digestive problems, and changes in teeth and
bones, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has consequently
established maximum exposure limits. To lessen the dangers posed by fluorine
emissions, brickworks can install scrubbers, but they are expensive. While some
plants have already installed such systems, the U.S. brick industry is trying
to play a more important role in developing less expensive emissions testing
methods and establishing emission limits. If the brick industry cannot persuade
federal regulators to lower their requirements, it is quite possible that the
industry could shrink in size, as some companies cannot afford to comply and
will go out of business.</span></div>
Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-16610861839374309682013-01-08T09:04:00.000-08:002013-01-08T09:04:39.252-08:00Some Considerations of Sustainability ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GACdw05DHs4/UJqe-bTnOoI/AAAAAAAAAIE/-jva6rJPyec/s1600/047007468X.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GACdw05DHs4/UJqe-bTnOoI/AAAAAAAAAIE/-jva6rJPyec/s320/047007468X.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>... in Brick Masonry Construction</b></span></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Clay and shale, the raw materials for bricks, are plentiful. They are usually obtained from open pits, with the attendant disruption of drainage, vegetation, and wildlife habitat.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Because of the energy used in its firing, brick is a relatively energy-extensive product. The energy embodied in an average brick is 14,300 BTU. The usual energy sources for brick kilns are oil, gas, or coal. Air pollution can result from improperly regulated kilns.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Clay and shale are found almost everywhere. The majority of bricks come from regional plants, which reduces the energy needed to ship them.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Bricks last a very long time and usually an be recycled when a building is demolished.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Brick masonry is not associated with indoor air quality problems.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The thermal mass effect of brick masonry can be a useful component of fuel-saving natural heating and cooling strategies such as solar heating and nighttime cooling.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Mortar is made of minerals that are generally abundant in the earth. Portland cement and lime are energy-intensive products.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Relatively small amounts of waste are generated on a construction site during the construction of a brick building, including partial bricks, unsatisfactory bricks, and unused mortar. These wastes generally go into landfills or are buried on the site.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">When a brick building is demolished, the bricks may be cleaned of mortar and reused. However, the more usual practice is to dump the bricks and mortar in a landfill or to use them as fill on a construction site.</li>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KvFEeWb74Bw/UOxO1i1FsWI/AAAAAAAAAJk/v7x51aMYe1s/s1600/Brickwork-1259649298_54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KvFEeWb74Bw/UOxO1i1FsWI/AAAAAAAAAJk/v7x51aMYe1s/s640/Brickwork-1259649298_54.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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What is <a href="http://cne-gc.blogspot.com/2012/10/what-is-sustainability.html" target="_blank">sustainability</a>?</div>
Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-71964052454173356122012-12-04T12:13:00.001-08:002012-12-04T12:18:12.131-08:00Some Considerations of Sustainability...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GACdw05DHs4/UJqe-bTnOoI/AAAAAAAAAIE/-jva6rJPyec/s1600/047007468X.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GACdw05DHs4/UJqe-bTnOoI/AAAAAAAAAIE/-jva6rJPyec/s320/047007468X.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">... in Site Work, Excavations, and Foundations</span></div>
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<br />
<b>Site Selection</b><b> </b><br />
<ul>
<li>Buying and renovating an existing building rather than building a new one saves a great deal of building material. If the existing building has been scheduled for demolition, it also avoids dumping an enormous quantity of material into a landfill.</li>
<li>Building on a damaged site, and designing the building so that it helps to restore it, benefits the environment rather than degrading it.</li>
<li>Building on agricultural land takes that land out of production forever.</li>
<li>Building in forests and on wetlands and prairies destroys wildlife habitat.</li>
<li>A building that is well connected to existing networks of public transportation , and to pedestrian and bicycle paths, pays environmental dividends every day for the life of the building by saving fuel, reducing air pollution from automobiles, and minimizing commute times.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GIqohV3Bp4E/UL5Uzv4y8KI/AAAAAAAAAIg/o-rTSYlta78/s1600/11.016_SiteSelection_Map2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GIqohV3Bp4E/UL5Uzv4y8KI/AAAAAAAAAIg/o-rTSYlta78/s200/11.016_SiteSelection_Map2.png" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8KSv2yfAXI/UL5U07-LLeI/AAAAAAAAAIo/ph7r5MNkOlA/s1600/AC170E01.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8KSv2yfAXI/UL5U07-LLeI/AAAAAAAAAIo/ph7r5MNkOlA/s200/AC170E01.gif" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a> <b>Site Design</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qYeQ2c7YB5I/UL5U3oBdQTI/AAAAAAAAAI4/r56158cpihY/s1600/service1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qYeQ2c7YB5I/UL5U3oBdQTI/AAAAAAAAAI4/r56158cpihY/s320/service1.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<li>Large existing trees cannot be replaced except by growing new ones, which takes many decades. Planting of new trees is always a good thing, but preservation of existing trees is even better.</li>
<li>Distinctive site features such as rock formations, forests, grasslands, streams, marshes, and recreational paths and facilities, if destroyed by construction, can never be<b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b>replaced.</li>
<li>Protection
and enhancement of the health of ecosystems such as marshes, lakes,
forests, and prairies is essential to the maintenance of biodiversity.</li>
<li>Grading the site to appropriate slopes and planting vegetation that holds the soil in place will prevent erosion.</li>
<li>A drainage system that conducts water to areas on the site where it is absorbed into the earth works to replenish natural aquifers and avoids overloading of storm sewers.</li>
<li>Building above the water table helps avoid disturbance of aquifers.</li>
<li>A new building that shades adjacent buildings deprives them of natural illumination and, in many cases, useful solar heat. The result is an increase in the amount of electricity and heating fuel used by the shaded building.</li>
<li>Siting a building for best exposure to sun and wind maximizes solar heat gain in winter and minimizes it in summer to save heating and air conditioning fuel. It also allows utilization of daylight to replace electric lighting.<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span id="goog_1993696192"></span><span id="goog_1993696193"></span><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gR9JZ6PbgWI/UL5U1-G3roI/AAAAAAAAAIw/ub-oayx7i-Q/s1600/const_draw.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></li>
<li><span id="goog_1993696190"></span><span id="goog_1993696191"></span>In general, a building should be designed in such a manner that the site does the heaviest work of <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gR9JZ6PbgWI/UL5U1-G3roI/AAAAAAAAAIw/ub-oayx7i-Q/s1600/const_draw.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>environmental modification through good orientation to sun and wind, trees that are placed so as to provide shade and windbreaks, and use of below-grade portions of the building for thermal mass. The passive shell of the building can do most of the rest of the work through orientation of windows with respect to sunlight, good thermal insulation and airtightness, utilization of thermal mass, and tight multipane windows. The active heating, cooling, and lighting equipment should serve only to fine-tune the interior environment, using as little fossil fuel and electricity as possible.</li>
</ul>
<ul><br /></ul>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gR9JZ6PbgWI/UL5U1-G3roI/AAAAAAAAAIw/ub-oayx7i-Q/s1600/const_draw.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><b>Construction Process</b><br />
<ul>
<li>It is essential to protect trees and sensitive areas of the site from damage during construction.</li>
<li>A building should comply with all local conservation laws relating to soils, wetlands, and stormwater.</li>
<li>Topsoil should be stockpiled carefully during construction and reused on the site.</li>
<li>It is important to guard against soil erosion by water and wind during construction.</li>
<li>Vehicle tires compact soil so that it cannot absorb water or support vegetation. Thus, it is important to develop minimal, well-marked access routes for trucks and construction machinery that minimize soil compaction, as well as minimizing noise, dust, air pollution, and inconvenience to neighboring buildings and sites.</li>
<li>Construction machinery should be selected and maintained so that it pollutes the air as little as possible.</li>
<li>Surplus excavated soils should be reused either on the site or on another site nearby.</li>
<li>Construction wastes should be recycled as much as possible. </li>
</ul>
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What is <a href="http://cne-gc.blogspot.com/2012/10/what-is-sustainability.html" target="_blank">sustainability</a>? Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-68620344612577437772012-11-07T09:53:00.000-08:002012-11-07T09:53:31.067-08:00What Frame Are You?<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">W</span></i>ood light frame construction is the most versatile of all building systems. There is scarcely a shape it cannot be used to construct, from a plain rectilinear box to cylindrical towers to complex foldings of sloping roofs with dormers of every description. During the century and a half since it first came to use, wood light framing has served to construct buildings in styles ranging from reinterpretations of nearly all the historical fashions to uncompromising expressions of every 20th-century architectural philosophy. It has assimilated without difficulty during this same period a bewildering and unforeseen succession of technical improvements in building: central heating, air conditioning, gas lighting, electricity, thermal insulation, indoor plumbing, prefabricated components, and electronic communications. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ipae0ZUFwGc/UJqfZN6kGSI/AAAAAAAAAIM/7paXTkrWQnw/s1600/Post_and_Beam_home_02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ipae0ZUFwGc/UJqfZN6kGSI/AAAAAAAAAIM/7paXTkrWQnw/s640/Post_and_Beam_home_02.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Light frame buildings are easily and swiftly constructed with a minimal investment in tools. Many observers of the building industry have criticized the supposed inefficiency of light frame construction, which is carried out larghely by hand methods on the building site, yet it has successfully fought off competition from industrialized building systems of every sort, partly by incorporating their best features, to remain the least expensive form of durable construction. It is the common currency of small residential and commercial buildings in NorthAmerica today.</div>
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Wood light frame construction has its deficiencies: If ignited, it burns rapidly; if exposed to dampness, it decays. It expands and contracts by significant amounts in response to changes in humidity, sometimes causing chronic difficulties with cracking plaster, sticking doors, and buckling floors. The framing itself is so unattractive to the eye that is seldom left exposed in a building. These problems can be controlled, however, by clever design and careful workmanship, and there is no arguing with success: Frames made by the monotonous repetition of wooden joints, studs, and rafters are likely to remain the number one system of building in North America for a long time to come.</div>
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<b>by</b>: </div>
Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-35427385936244005322012-11-02T10:34:00.000-07:002012-11-07T10:45:17.707-08:00Happy Birthday!C & E General Contractors, Inc. highly recommends Clean As A
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Whistle is certified by the IICRC, the Institution of Inspection, Cleaning, and
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designations. Clean As A Whistle's cleaning systems are the most advanced on the
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Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0Houston, TX, USA29.7601927 -95.369389629.319101200000002 -96.001103600000008 30.2012842 -94.7376756tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-51494991740250325562012-10-29T09:46:00.003-07:002013-01-08T09:05:48.138-08:00What is Sustainability?<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sustainability may be defined as meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. By consuming fossil fuels and other nonrenewable resources, by building in sprawling urban patterns that cover extensive areas of prime agricultural land, by using wood from forests that are not replanted, by allowing topsoil to be eroded by wind and water, and by generating substances that pollute water, soil, and air, we have been building in a manner that will make it increasingly difficult for our children and grandchildren to meet their needs for buildings and healthy lives.</div>
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On the other hand, if we reduce building energy usage and utilize sunlight and wind as energy sources for our buildings, we avoid depletion of fossil fuels. If we reuse existing buildings imaginatively and arrange our new buildings in compact patterns on land of marginal value, we minimize the waste of valuable land. If we harvest wood from forests that are managed in such a way that they can supply wood at a sustained level for the foreseeable future, we maintain wood construction as a viable option for centuries to come. If we protect soil and water through sound design and construction practices, we retain these irreplaceable resources for our successors. If we systematically reduce or eliminate the various forms of pollution emitted in the processes of producing and operating buildings, we keep the environment clean in perpetuity. It is often possible to do these things without increasing the monetary costs of constructing and operating buildings, and in some cases actually to reduce these costs. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Realization to these goals is dependent on our awareness of the environmental problems created by building activities, knowledge of how to avoid these problems, and skill in designing and constructing buildings that harness this knowledge. Sustainable design and construction, also called "green" building, is steadily becoming the goal of more and more building owners, architectural and engineering firms, contractors, and building operators, among them some of the largest organizations in each field.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sustainability must be addressed on a life-cycle basis, from the origins of the materials for a building, through the manufacture and installation of these materials and their useful lifetime in the building, to their eventual disposal when the building's life is ended.<br />
<br />
Considerations of sustainability:<br />
<a href="http://cne-gc.blogspot.com/2012/12/some-considerations-of-sustainability.html" target="_blank"> in Site Work, Excavations, and Foundations</a><br />
<a href="http://cne-gc.blogspot.com/2013/01/some-considerations-of-sustainability.html" target="_blank"> in Brick Masonry Construction</a> </div>
Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-20390698336592819072012-10-22T10:10:00.001-07:002012-10-22T10:12:25.556-07:00Strategy for Remodeling BathroomsYou dream about a bathroom that’s high on comfort and personal style,
but you also want materials, fixtures, and amenities with lasting
value. Wake up! You can have both.<br />
<br />
A mid-range bathroom
remodel is a solid investment, according to Remodeling Magazine’s
annual Cost vs. Value Report. An average bath remodel of $16,500 will
recoup about 62% of those costs when it’s time to sell your home, and a
more extensive $52,200 job returns about 55.5%. In addition, you can
maximize the value of your investment by using these smart strategies,
which will create a stylish yet budget-friendly bathroom.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Lzy3JF5TeE/UIV8Xn6xw9I/AAAAAAAAAFc/i6i5bdMvgWM/s1600/bthrmRemodel.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Lzy3JF5TeE/UIV8Xn6xw9I/AAAAAAAAAFc/i6i5bdMvgWM/s320/bthrmRemodel.jpg" width="239" /></a> <br />
<b>1. Stick to a plan</b><br />
<br />
You can afford that Italian tile you love if you can live with the total square footage you already have. <br />
<br />
Keeping
the same footprint, and locating new plumbing fixtures near existing
plumbing pipes, saves demolition and reconstruction dollars. You’ll also
cut down on the dust and debris that make remodeling so hard to live
with.<br />
<br />
Make the most of the space you have. Glass doors
on showers and tubs open up the area. A pedestal sink takes up less room
than a vanity. If you miss the storage, replace a mirror with a deep
medicine cabinet.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Keep the same footprint</b><br />
<br />
You can afford that Italian tile you love if you can live with the total square footage you already have. <br />
<br />
Keeping
the same footprint, and locating new plumbing fixtures near existing
plumbing pipes, saves demolition and reconstruction dollars. You’ll also
cut down on the dust and debris that make remodeling so hard to live
with.<br />
<br />
Make the most of the space you have. Glass doors
on showers and tubs open up the area. A pedestal sink takes up less room
than a vanity. If you miss the storage, replace a mirror with a deep
medicine cabinet.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Make lighting a priority</b><br />
<br />
Multiple
shower heads and radiant heat floors are fabulous adds to a bathroom
remodel. But few items make a bathroom more satisfying than lighting
designed for everyday grooming. You can install lighting for a fraction
of the cost of pricier amenities.<br />
<br />
Well-designed
bathroom task lighting surrounds vanity mirrors and eliminates shadows
on faces: You look better already. The scheme includes two ceiling- or
soffit-mounted fixtures with 60 to 75 watts each, and side fixtures or
sconces providing at least 150 watts each, distributed vertically across
24 inches (to account for people of various heights). Four-bulb
lighting fixtures work well for side lighting.<br />
<br />
<b>4. Clear the air</b><br />
<br />
Bathroom ventilation systems may be out of sight, but they shouldn’t be out of mind during a bathroom remodel.<br />
<br />
Bathroom
ventilation is essential for removing excess humidity that fogs
mirrors, makes bathroom floors slippery, and contributes to the growth
of mildew and mold. Controlling mold and humidity is especially
important for maintaining healthy indoor air quality and protecting the
value of your home—mold remediation is expensive, and excess humidity
can damage cabinets and painted finishes.<br />
<br />
A bathroom
vent and water closet fan should exhaust air to the outside—not simply
to the space between ceiling joists. Better models have whisper-quiet
exhaust fans and humidity-controlled switches that activate when a
sensor detects excess moisture in the air.<br />
<br />
<b>5. Think storage</b><br />
<br />
Bathroom
storage is a challenge: By the time you’ve installed the toilet,
shower, and sink, there’s often little space left to store towels,
toilet paper, and hair and body products. Here are some ways to find
storage in hidden places.<br />
<br />
• Think vertically: Upper
wall space in a bathroom is often underused. Freestanding, multi-tiered
shelf units designed to fit over toilet tanks turn unused wall area into
found storage. Spaces between wall studs create attractive and useful
niches for holding soaps and toiletries. Install shelves over towel bars
to use blank wall space.<br />
<br />
• Think moveable: Inexpensive
woven baskets set on the floor are stylish towel holders. A floor-stand
coat rack holds wet towels, bath robes, and clothes.<br />
<br />
•
Think utility: Adding a slide-out tray to vanity cabinet compartments
provides full access to stored items and prevents lesser-used items from
being lost or forgotten.<br />
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Visit our web site at </span><a href="http://www.cne-gc.net/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">C & E General Contractors, Inc.</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> ~</span></div>
Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-55127756087268762662012-08-28T09:34:00.000-07:002012-08-28T09:34:15.049-07:00Storm Preparedness<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Protecting the home</b></span><br />
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Every region in the United
States is susceptible to some type of major storm. Whether it’s a
hurricane on the Atlantic or Gulf coast, a tornado in the Midwest or a
tropical storm in the Pacific, there are steps homeowners can take to
protect their homes and keep their families safe.<br />
<br />
<b>Keep your roof in good shape</b>:<br />
The roof is your home’s primary defense against the elements, and an
annual roof inspection should be part of your storm preparedness plan.
During an inspection, a roofer will check the overall structural
integrity of your roof; look for loose shingles that could easily blow
away in a storm, and other areas that may be prone to damage. For
homeowners who live in areas prone to high winds, a roofing company
can install wind-resistant shingles, plug areas where water could enter
the home, and add extra fortification to your gables, rafters and
sheathing.<br />
<br />
<b>Clear gutters and downspouts:</b><br />
Make sure your gutters and downspouts
are clear of obstructions and in good repair. This is important to do
anyway, but as they will need to work overtime during a major storm.
Poorly sloped, leaking or obstructed gutters and downspouts can
overflow, causing water damage to your home’s exterior or foundation.<br />
<br />
<b>Tend to trees and other wind hazards</b>:<br />
If you have trees near your house, have an expert look at them once
every year or two to trim away dead limbs that could break off during a
storm and crash through your roof. Don't just hire the guy with a
chainsaw who knocks on your door; find a qualified tree expert and have weak limbs taken down before a storm does it.<br />
When a big storm is headed your way, look around your property for
objects that could become dangerous flying debris. Even heavy structures
like playground equipment, porch swings and grills should be secured to
the ground.<br />
<br />
<b>Give your sump pump a backup</b>:<br />
The sump pump is often overlooked during storm preparation, yet it
provides the main line of defense against basement flooding. If you have
a finished basement, install a sump pump with a battery backup to ensure it will continue to operate in the event power is lost.<br />
<br />
<b>No, don't open the windows:</b><br />
It’s a common misconception that you should open windows in the home
in anticipation of a wind event such as a tornado or hurricane. It was
incorrectly assumed that it would help move air through the home and
prevent it from becoming too pressurized and exploding. This theory has
been debunked, and it actually puts your family at a greater risk of
injury caused by flying debris.<br />
Homeowners in areas prone to tornadoes can install impact-resistant
glass for extra protection. People in coastal areas can install hurricane shutters made out of plywood, aluminum or steel to prevent windows from breaking. Talk to a window installation company for more information.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Insurance considerations</b></span></div>
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<br />
Having a homeowner’s
insurance policy does not guarantee that your home will be covered from
weather-related storm damage. In fact, many insurance policies do not
cover things like floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides
and even sewer backups. It's important to check with your agent so you
know what is covered and under what circumstances.<br />
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<b>Read the policy:</b><br />
You are responsible for reading the entire policy, and understanding
the type of coverage you have for your home and possessions. Many
policies do not cover things that might seem automatic, and a failure to
understand your policy could result in high replacement costs down the
road.<br />
You need to determine the potential weather-related threats that
could damage your home, and adjust your insurance policy accordingly. If
you have any questions about your existing policy, or want to confirm
whether have coverage for things like hail damage or flooding, consult
your insurance agent.<br />
<br />
<b>Make sure you're covered:</b><br />
Get an appraisal by a home appraiser to establish how much insurance
coverage you need. Although it may be more expensive, you should
purchase a policy that insures your home for 100 percent of the
replacement cost. If you get 100 percent coverage, you will be
reimbursed for the full cash value of the home and not the depreciated
cost.<br />
It’s important to ensure you have the right type of insurance for
your home. Many policies do not cover floods, hurricanes, hail and other
weather-related damage.<br />
Insurance companies often change the wording of their policies, and
the items they cover can be extremely confusing. For example, insurance
policies routinely do not cover water damage, so if your home gets
flooded by a hurricane, you might have to pay for the damage in full,
and out of pocket. Homeowners in low-lying areas should purchase flood
insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program.<br />
<br />
<b>Take inventory of your belongings</b><br />
Many insurance policies will reimburse you for your personal
possessions at a rate of half the overall insured value of the home. If
your home has a $300,000 policy, your possessions would be covered for
$150,000.<br />
Take an inventory of your possessions to ensure everything is
appraised and accounted for. Take photos and video of your possessions
for proof in case you have to file a claim. Include all of your
possessions in the inventory from jewelry and clothing to CDs and DVDs.
If you are concerned that your policy will not cover the actual value of
your possessions, you should purchase a policy with full replacement
value. This type of policy reimburses at the actual retail value of an
item without taking age and depreciation into account.<br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1197462492837878835" name="3"></a>Make a family plan</b></span></div>
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Anything can happen during a major storm, so it’s important to
establish a family preparedness plan before severe weather strikes. Your
plan should have specific instructions for how your family will ride
out a storm, as well as plans for evacuating the home and a meeting at a
predetermined location in case family members become separated.<br />
The most important part of your preparedness plan should explain
exactly how your family will stay safe during a storm. If you live in an
area of the country that is prone to tornados or other sudden
catastrophic weather events, you should designate a safe spot for the
family to take refuge. Basements and storm shelters should be utilized
if possible. People who do not have an underground space should take
refuge in a windowless room in the middle of the home.<br />
In the event of a hurricane or tropical storm, it’s wise to establish
an evacuation route and destination for riding out the storm. You need
to consider the fact that many other people will also be trying to flee,
causing congestion on roadways and gas stations. If at all possible,
pick a relative or friend’s house because hotels fill up fast during
storm evacuations.<br />
You also need to establish a place where the family can meet in case
someone becomes separated. The meeting spot can be a place in the home,
at a neighbor’s house or community storm shelter. Once there, take a
head count and check to see if anybody needs medical attention.<br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1197462492837878835" name="4"></a>Emergency supply kit</b></span></div>
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No matter how well prepared
local officials and utility companies may be, a major weather disaster
will stretch all resources thin. If your house is badly damaged and
you're left without power for a week it will make a big difference
whether you've made your own preparations. Think about essentials like
food, water, medications and important documents.<br />
<br />
<b>Water</b> – Experts recommend 1 gallon of water for every member of the family per day. You should keep a week’s supply on hand.<br />
<br />
<b>Food</b> – You also want to have enough food to feed
each member of the family for at least seven days. Choose nonperishable
foods like canned goods or dehydrated foods. You may also need a
hand-operated can opener and eating utensils. If you lose power, keep
the refrigerator door shut as much as possible because cold food will
only last for a couple of hours before going bad.<br />
<br />
<b>First aid kit</b> – Keep a first aid kit on hand with
medical necessities like rubbing alcohol, bandages, gauze and pain
relievers. If a family member depends on daily prescription medicine,
never let your stockpile of that precious commodity dwindle to less than
a week's supply.<br />
<br />
<b>Clothing and bedding</b> – You definitely want to make
sure you have an extra supply of blankets. You could lose power for
weeks in the event of a major storm which would prevent your HVAC system
from working. You also want to keep additional clothing on hand but the
type depends on your geographic location. People in colder climates
should stock up on extra jackets, long pants, boots, hats and gloves. In
warmer climates, you want extra rain gear, dry clothes and shoes.<br />
<br />
<b>Radio</b> – Keep a battery powered or hand
crank-operated radio on hand (and a couple of packages of new batteries)
in case you lose power for an extended period of time. It could be the
only way to stay informed with weather and news updates.<br />
<br />
<b>Flashlights and batteries</b> – In the event of a power
loss, a flashlight is one of the handiest tools to keep on hand. Of
course, you also need several extra sets of batteries.<br />
<br />
<b>Important documents</b> – Make copies of important
documents and keep them in a waterproof container. You should include
medical records, bank account numbers and credit cards, insurance
records and emergency contact information.<br />
<br />
<b>Cash</b> – In the event of a widespread power outage,
local businesses and gas stations could lose power. Cash could be your
only option for purchasing food and supplies.</div>
</div>
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Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-46457305937213860732012-06-15T12:37:00.003-07:002012-07-31T12:36:57.020-07:00Launching Our Referral Reward Program!<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium;">C & E General Contractors offers general
residential construction services. We specialize in insurance claims and also
provide home owners and real estate investors with a multitude of services:
including kitchen/bathroom remodeling, room additions, drywall repair and
upgrade services for a reasonable price and within a reasonable time
frame.<br /><br />Our mission is to create strong, lasting relations within the
community and to cultivate exceptional service and products through continuous
improvement... <span style="color: #e8141b; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium;"><a class="fw_link_page" href="http://cne-gc.webs.com/booknow.htm">Book an
estimate</a></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium;"> with us online today and
your consultation will be free... Call us at (713)363-4124 or download a
</span><span style="color: #e8141b; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium;"><a class="fw_link_file" href="http://cne-gc.webs.com/Brochure2.pdf">brochure</a></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium;"> for more information.</span><br /><br />We are offering a special Referral Reward Program to honor those who provide new clients to our company. This is your opportunity to earn credit with us in exchange for your referrals.</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium;"><br /><br />We believe there are a number of construction or building opportunities available, the challenge is discovering where they are. That is where you come in... When you know of a potential project we want to hear from you. Perhaps you have a friend that manages a property looking to renovate or remodel, or maybe a friend or family member who recently had a flood in their home or property. This Referral Reward Program was created to express and extend our gratitude for your support.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Refer us to your customers, friends, or family by displaying or sharing our brochures, business cards, or our website. </div>
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~ Visit our website for continuous updates... <a href="http://cne-gc.webs.com/">http://cne-gc.webs.com</a> ~</div>
____________________________________________________________________<br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><strong></strong></span></h1>Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-71200026629882060962012-06-11T06:45:00.000-07:002012-06-11T06:45:31.154-07:00Reading "The Construction Contractor's Digest"<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">C & E enjoys receiving informative emails from the Construction Contractor's Digest... And to all those starting out in the construction industry, this is awesome stuff and good to know. We encourage you to click on the full article below especially if you would want to get on the big boss' good side!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> By: Matt Stevens<br /> Titled: <u>For Your May / June Graduates</u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have been asked on several occasions for career advice from young construction professionals. Here is the start of the conversation that others should continue. We have collected and listed 15 hard won lessons and observations for young construction professionals to consider. We are certain there are many more if you ask any executive in a construction firm. Again, here is a starting point.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001YrCp8xb9lZEujFn7xPKqIRPBnw5MFoWMR8xydEuk6m3yPW4UzzP4kxxEhl9h-DaPSkNdz-el0GhPwUiiJ1yC9ecGIW-SZ5zJyYrVgt1QuFMjuVrQn2UeUVUhLLLMpRyLOtNMbdl3XeDGC2LcIZFzC4-5isiCt9srSS7VfpkGxB-DyKKsotgaeCTlPus-kR-zSeYdShB7arwdtdH36bFnG7tZDk996ymKhujSuTUjfPo=" target="_blank">Click here to see the full article...</a> </div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>~ Are you looking for a career in the construction industry? Well, hurricane season is here. Visit our web site at </strong><a href="http://www.cne-gc.webs.com/"><strong>http://www.cne-gc.webs.com</strong></a><strong> and click on the Employment option... ~</strong> </div>
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<a name='more'></a>Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-85808515648620491482012-06-08T13:35:00.000-07:002012-06-08T13:37:22.220-07:00Flood Insurance vs. Home Owner's Insurance<span style="font-size: medium;"><strong><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Visit our website at </span><a href="http://www.cne-gc.webs.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.cne-gc.webs.com</span></a></div>
</strong></span><div style="text-align: justify;">
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><strong>FLOOD INSURANCE</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As the name
implies, a standard flood insurance policy, which is made available by the
National Floor Insurance Program, provides coverage up to the policy limit for
damage caused by flood. The dictionary defines "flood" as a rising and
overflowing of a body of water onto normally dry land. For insurance purposes,
the word "rising" in this definition is the key to distinguishing flood damage
from water damage. Also important to note is that flooding must be general and
temporary, and it must affect more than just one property.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Generally,
damage caused by water that has been on the ground at some point before damaging
your home is considered to be flood damage. Examples of flood damage may
include:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A nearby river overflows its banks and washes into you
home.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Surface water caused by a heavy rain seeps into your basement
because the soil can't absorb the water quickly enough.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A heavy rain or
flash flood causes the hill behind your house to collapse into a mud slide that
oozes into your home.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Flood damage to your home can be insured only with
a flood insurance policy -- no other insurance will cover flood damage. Flood
insurance is available through your insurance professional. To determine if your
home is located in a flood plain, contact your county planning office. If you
are living in a flood plain, flood insurance may be an excellent
purchase.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">HOMEOWNERS
INSURANCE</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A homeowners insurance policy does not provide
coverage for flood damage, but it does provide coverage for many types of water
damage to your home. Just the opposite from flood damage, for insurance
purposes, water damage is considered to occur when water damages your home
before the water comes in contact with the ground. A few examples of water
damage may include:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A hailstorm smashes your window, permitting hail and
rain free access to your home.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A heavy rain soaks through the roof,
allowing water to drip through your attic or ceiling.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A broken water pipe
spews water in your home.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Even if your homeowners insurance policy
doesn't cover the water or flood damage you've experienced, losses from theft,
fire or explosion resulting from that damage are covered. For example, if a
nearby creek overflows and floods your home, and looters steal some of your
possessions after you've evacuated the house, the theft would be covered by your
homeowners insurance. However, the flood damage would be covered only if you
have flood insurance.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Flood insurance and homeowners insurance do not
duplicate coverage for water damage. Instead, they complement each other. It is
up to you to talk to your insurance professional about flood insurance and
homeowners insurance and then decide which insurance coverage you need to
protect your home, its contents and your family.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Visit our website at </span><a href="http://www.cne-gc.webs.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.cne-gc.webs.com</span></a></div>Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-52929715610467168592012-05-29T10:22:00.001-07:002012-05-29T10:23:41.904-07:00Are You Prepared For A Hurricane?Hurricane season takes place in the Atlantic, Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and Central Pacific from June 1 to November 30 while in the Eastern Pacific the season is from May 15 to November 30.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-fha07fmaY/T8UEuVFPOzI/AAAAAAAAADg/kvHcRmfU0FA/s1600/hurricane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; height: 135px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 201px;"><img border="0" height="130" rba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-fha07fmaY/T8UEuVFPOzI/AAAAAAAAADg/kvHcRmfU0FA/s200/hurricane.jpg" width="200" /></a>A hurricane is one of many destructive natural phenomenons which occurs about 40 to 50 times worldwide each year. Hurricanes are violent tropical storms with sustained winds of at least 74 mph. They form over warm ocean waters – usually starting as storms in the Caribbean or off the west coast of Africa. As they drift slowly westward, they are fueled by the warm waters of the tropics. Warm, moist air moves toward the center of the storm and spirals upward. This releases torrential rains. As updrafts suck up more water vapor, it triggers a cycle of strengthening that can be stopped only when contact is made with land or cooler water.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Are you prepared</u>?</strong> </span> Below is a list of what you can do to get prepared for a hurricane:<br />
<ul>
<li><b>First and foremost pay attention to what is going on concerning the weather.</b> </li>
<b>
<li><b>Stock up your water supply, non-perishable food items and any special dietary foods.</b> </li>
<li>Always keep your car's gas tank full.</li>
<li><strong>Have a two-week supply of your prescription medications. </strong></li>
<br />
<li><b>Make a plan if you choose to evacuate and a list of supplies you'll need.</b> </li>
<li><b>Store valuables and documents like birth certificates and other important documents in waterproof containers.</b> </li>
<li><b>Prepare and secure your home with plywood to protect your windows and glass doors.</b> </li>
<li><b>Make sure your pets are included in your evacuation plan and list as well.</b> </li>
<li><b>Start an emergency cash fund. </b></li>
<li><strong>Have a disaster supplies kit which should contain the following:</strong></li>
</b> </ul>
<ol><ol>
<li><b>Flashlights</b> and several sets of batteries for each member of the family.</li>
<li><b>Portable radio</b> and batteries. </li>
<li><b>Drinking Water.</b> A supply of one gallon per person, per day for a minimum of three days.</li>
<li><b>Non-perishable Food.</b> A two-week supply is best. </li>
<li><b>Special dietary foods.</b> </li>
<li><b>Non-electric can opener.</b> </li>
<li><b>Prescription medications.</b> Always keep a two-week supply on hand. </li>
<li><b>Infant supplies</b> that include sterile water, diapers, ready formula, bottles, etc. </li>
<li><b>Mosquito repellent.</b> </li>
<li><b>First aid kit</b> including a first aid book, bandages, antiseptic, tape, compresses, aspirin and nonaspirin pain reliever, antidiarrhea medication and antacid. </li>
<li><b>Distress flag</b> and/or whistle. </li>
<li><b>Toilet paper, paper towels</b> and pre-moistened towelettes. </li>
<li><b>Camera</b> and film. </li>
<li><b>Coolers.</b> One to keep food and another to transport ice. </li>
<li><b>Plastic tarp</b>, roofing paper, nails, tools, etc. </li>
<li><b>Plastic trash bags.</b> </li>
<li><b>Clean-up supplies</b> including a mop, buckets, towels, disinfectant, etc. </li>
<li><b>Water purification kit.</b> Tablets, plain chlorine and iodine.</li>
<li><b>If you evacuate</b> take the supplies above and also take:</li>
<ol>
<li>Personal hygiene items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. </li>
<li>Extra clothing, shoes, eyeglasses, etc. </li>
<li>Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, cots or air mattresses, folding chairs or lawn chairs. </li>
<li>Turn off electricity, water and gas. </li>
<li>Lock windows and doors. </li>
<li>Let relatives know where you are going.</li>
</ol>
</ol>
</ol>Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-47902480412494593572012-05-25T14:05:00.001-07:002014-06-11T09:02:01.481-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="lifeEventStoryText lifeEventShortStory" style="text-align: center;">
We are <span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b>C & E General Contractors</b></span> working hard so you don't have to!<br />
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Subscribe To Our Web Site: <a href="http://cne-gc.net/" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank">http://cne-gc.net</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;">For all your home improvement projects, you'll need a general contractor you can trust! From roofing and siding, ceiling to new flooring -- C & E is a must! <a class="fw_link_page" href="http://www.cne-gc.net/booknow.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color: #660000;">Schedule</span></a><span style="color: #660000;"> </span>an appointment with us online and your consultation will be free... Download <a class="fw_link_file fw_link_newWindow" href="http://www.cne-gc.net/Brochure3.pdf" target="_blank">brochure</a> for more information...</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" class="fw_image_computer fwSizeProp" src="http://cne-gc.webs.com/Mastertub.jpg" height="110" style="height: 110px; margin: 8px; width: 148px;" width="148" /><img border="0" class="fw_image_freewebs fwSizeProp" src="http://cne-gc.webs.com/d8489105e342.jpg" height="125" style="height: 125px; margin: 8px; width: 167px;" width="167" /><img border="0" class="fw_image_computer fwSizeProp" src="http://cne-gc.webs.com/839cb0b69d44e801b9ce65618b877977[2].jpg" height="108" style="height: 108px; margin: 8px; width: 145px;" width="145" /></span></span></div>
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Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-53141650168773205662012-04-17T14:13:00.000-07:002012-04-17T14:13:50.670-07:00The Average Cost of Foundation Repair<span style="font-size: large;">A</span><span style="font-size: small;">s almost any homeowner knows, the stronger the foundation of a house, the more secure the house itself is, and that translates into fewer cracks, leaks and losses of support structures. Of course, not every house can go through its life cycle with the foundation performing flawlessly. This is where foundation repair comes in and it becomes necessary to start calculating fix-it averages. <br /><br />Read more: The Average Cost of Foundation Repair from </span><a href="http://www.ehow.com/about_5393343_average-cost-foundation-repair.html">eHow.com </a><br />
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<br /></div>Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1197462492837878835.post-72262769916275095492012-04-06T10:39:00.000-07:002012-04-06T10:51:51.821-07:00Preventing Water Damage In Your HomeLearn where your home is most likely to suffer water damage, and what you can do to help prevent it. <br />
<h2>
Possible Indoor Culprits:</h2>
<h3>
The Kitchen</h3>
A good place to start when you're trying to prevent water damage is the kitchen: a place where we work with a whole lot of water, right?<br />
Look carefully at your major appliances, and make sure they are up to par.<br />
<ul>
<li><b>The Dishwasher:</b> Periodically check for leaks under the sink where the hose connects to the water supply. Look around the base of the dishwasher for evidence of leaks, such as discolored, warped, or soft flooring materials, or water damage to nearby cabinets.</li>
<li><b>The Refrigerator:</b> If your refrigerator has an icemaker, make sure the hose connection is securely attached to the water supply line. Also, a wet spot on the floor may be a sign of a crimped icemaker line about to burst.</li>
<li><b>The Sink:</b> Replace deteriorated caulk around sinks, and check the pipes under the sink for leaks. A slow-draining pipe may indicate a partially blocked drain that needs cleaning.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
The Bathroom</h3>
The bathroom is another water damage hot spot. Here's what you should examine and address: <br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Showers And Bathtubs:</b> Remove and replace deteriorated or cracked caulk and grout. Water from a broken supply pipe behind the wall can leak through these damaged sealants, causing stains or soft areas around nearby walls and floors. Leaking drain pipes and shower pan leaks are also common sources of water damage. If necessary, contact a plumber or <a href="http://cne-gc.webs.com/apps/location/" target="_blank">contractor</a> for help.</li>
<li><b>Sinks:</b> Check under the sink for leaks from water supply lines or drainpipes. If necessary, contact a plumber or <a href="http://cne-gc.webs.com/apps/location/" target="_blank">contractor</a> for help.</li>
<li><b>Toilets:</b> Clogs can result from too much toilet paper or objects such as hanging bowl deodorants. Also, some chlorine tablet cleaners may corrode internal plastic or rubber parts, leading to a leak. Again, don't hesitate to call in a <a href="http://cne-gc.webs.com/apps/location/" target="_blank">professional</a>.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
The Basement, Laundry, Or Utility Room</h3>
<ul>
<li><b>Washing Machine:</b> Check hoses regularly for bulging, cracking, fraying, and leaks around hose ends. Replace the hose if a problem is found or every 3 to 5 years as part of a proactive maintenance program. To help make sure the hose doesn't kink, leave at least 4 inches (or 11 centimeters) between the water connection and the back of the washing machine. Be sure to read the manufacturer's installation instructions carefully.</li>
<li><b>Water Heater:</b> Most water heaters last 8 to 15 years. Wet spots on the floor or a rusted tank may signal a leak. Water heaters should be installed on the lowest level of the home, next to a floor drain, or inside a drain pan piped to the floor drain.</li>
<li><b>Sump Pump:</b> Battery-operated backup sump pumps can help protect against power failure or failure of the primary pump. Test the sump pump before the start of each wet season. Sump pumps are not intended to last more than 10 years and must have some components replaced or serviced within those 10 years.</li>
</ul>
Since water may still come through an overflowing drain or cracks in the foundation walls, make sure items stored in the basement are kept off the floor. Furniture should be on casters or shims and arranged away from floor drains.<br />
<h2>
Stopping Indoor Leaks</h2>
The quickest way to stop a leak is to turn off your home's water. Of course it's not a permanent fix, but turning off the water in the moment can give you time to repair the specific problem.<br />
Make sure everyone in your household knows where the water shutoff valve is and how to open and close it. Check it frequently for problems, and shut off the water if you are away from your home for several days or longer.<br />
Depending on the severity of your leak, you may be able to fix it with relative ease. Plumbing, though, is a complicated business; if you're not sure what to do, don't hesitate to call a plumber or a <a href="http://cne-gc.webs.com/apps/location/" target="_blank">contractor</a>.<br />
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<h2>
Possible Outdoors Culprits: </h2>
<h3>
The Roof</h3>
It's not rocket science: roofs are there to keep your home dry, and if you've got water coming inside, your roof is a pretty good place to start. There are a number of different ways for water to get in through your roof, so consider the following points as you conduct the examination: <br />
<ul>
<li>Keep the roof free from leaves, twigs, and other litter to allow for proper drainage. Clogged gutters can easily lead to poor drainage, which in turn can lead to leaks in both the walls and at the foundation.</li>
<li>Make sure air can flow freely through all soffit and roof vents. This will reduce the buildup of heat and moisture and help extend the life of the roof.</li>
<li>Consult a professional on using a preservative or cleaner (depending on the type of roof you have) to help limit the weathering effects of moisture and slow the growth of molds and mosses.</li>
<li>Replace missing, curling, cupping, broken, or cracked shingles.</li>
<li>Watch for damage in valley areas of the roof, and around the flashing at chimneys, vents, and other junctions.</li>
<li>Check your attic around flues, plumbing vents, and chimneys for roof leaks, especially if you've noticed water stains on the ceiling.</li>
<li>If it's winter and you've got water in the attic or see water stains on your ceilings or walls, look for any <a href="http://learningcenter.statefarm.com/residence/maintenance/ice-dams-and-attic-condensation">ice dams</a>.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
From Gutters To The Ground</h3>
Once you're off the roof, there are still possible culprits to investigate. Take a look around the foundation of your home; a few simple changes could make all the difference.<br />
<ul>
<li>Place splash blocks at the end of downspouts to carry water away from the foundation, or add an extra length of downspout if necessary.</li>
<li>Every spring, have the air conditioning (A/C) system serviced by a qualified contractor. Make sure their service includes inspecting and cleaning the A/C condensation pan drain line. Change the air filters on a regular basis.</li>
<li>Before winter starts, disconnect garden hoses from all spigots and turn off each spigot's water supply.</li>
<li>Replace any damaged caulk around windows or doors.</li>
<li>Repaint wood siding as needed.</li>
<li>Fill in any low spots next to the house to help water drain away from the foundation. </li>
</ul>
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Subscribe to our web site at <a href="http://www.cne-gc.webs.com/"><span style="color: red;">http://www.cne-gc.webs.com</span></a></h3>Resource Developmenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01874503076618699495noreply@blogger.com1