Author: Larry Sanford

Choosing the Right Insulation for Your Needs

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Insulation Perth is material that resists the flow of heat, reducing heating and cooling costs. It also reduces noise levels and helps meet OSHA standards for workplace safety and comfort.

Insulation

Homebuyers today are looking for energy efficient homes with good insulation. Proper insulation is a simple and affordable upgrade that is easily installable by a homeowner.

Insulation slows the transfer of heat between spaces in a home or building, making it easier for heating and cooling systems to keep indoor temperatures steady. This helps minimize energy consumption by allowing a building to stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer without the need for excessive heating and cooling. Depending on the climate, homes and buildings that are adequately insulated can save an average of 11% on their annual energy bills.

During the early stages of human civilization, prehistoric peoples used animal skins and plants to provide thermal insulation for their shelters. Later, as people developed agriculture, they began constructing stone, earth and cave dwellings to protect themselves from wild animals, harsh weather conditions and extremes of temperature.

Today, a variety of materials are available to create effective thermal insulation and reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. Typically, insulation materials are made of nonmetallic substances filled with air pockets. The air pockets resist the flow of heat about 15,000 times better than a good metallic conductor of the same thickness. Insulation is rated according to its thermal resistance, or R-value. The higher the R-value, the more effective the material.

Most homes in the United States are under-insulated and have significant air leaks. Sealing these leaks and adding insulation is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve energy efficiency. This not only reduces energy bills, but also minimizes the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by powering your appliances and heating and cooling system.

In addition to reducing energy costs, proper insulation provides comfort and durability for the home. It maintains a consistent interior temperature throughout the year, reducing drafts and eliminating cold spots. It also helps prevent moisture infiltration, which can contribute to mold growth, rot, and other structural problems.

If you’re ready to start saving on your energy expenses, get started with Drawdown’s insulation solution. Check out our Massachusetts Mass Save rebate program for more information on a high-performance home upgrade. We also offer a free in-home energy assessment. Then contact our team to learn about your options for installing insulation and air sealing in your home or business.

Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Insulation reduces carbon footprints by reducing the use of fossil fuels such as natural gas, propane, fuel oil, and electricity to heat and cool buildings. This conserves nonrenewable energy supplies and helps to prevent air pollution. In addition, insulation reduces the amount of greenhouse gases released during the production and combustion of these fossil fuels.

Increasingly, homeowners and builders are placing more emphasis on choosing building materials that minimize environmental impact. This includes seeking out products that are recycled, responsibly sourced, and have low embodied carbon. In particular, a focus is placed on energy-efficient and eco-friendly building products like insulation that are made from natural or recycled materials.

The type of insulation used can have a significant impact on a building’s overall embodied carbon, or the amount of carbon it contains when manufactured and installed. Different insulation materials have varying levels of embodied carbon, with some types having significantly higher levels than others. For example, spray foam insulation is a popular option for new construction, but it is not sustainable and poses health risks due to the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) it releases during installation.

Cellulose, on the other hand, has a very low embodied carbon compared to other insulation types. This is because cellulose is produced using natural materials, while most competing products are manufactured from plastics. Additionally, cellulose insulation can be used with lower carbon energy sources such as solar or wind power, which further reduces its carbon footprint.

When comparing the carbon footprints of different insulation types, it is important to consider both the embodied carbon and the operational carbon emissions. The embodied carbon is the total amount of greenhouse gases that are emitted during manufacturing, including the use of blowing agents and transportation. The operational carbon emissions refer to the carbon dioxide that is emitted during heating and cooling.

The best way to determine the overall carbon performance of insulation is to calculate its carbon avoidance, or how much greenhouse gases it saves over its 75-year life span compared to its embodied carbon. The chart below compares the carbon avoidance of several different insulation types, with cellulose insulation clearly outperforming all competitors.

Increases Home Value

While many homeowners renovate their homes to make them more aesthetically pleasing, some fail to realize that updating insulation is one of the best ways to increase a property’s value. This is because potential buyers are interested in a home that is energy efficient and has low utility bills, since this translates to lower monthly energy costs. Additionally, newer insulation helps to keep a home cooler during the summer and warmer during the winter, which is more comfortable.

Insulation is also environmentally friendly as it reduces the use of natural gas, fuel oil, propane and electricity to heat and cool a house, thus lowering emissions that cause global warming. Furthermore, certain insulating materials like cellulose are made from recycled materials, which is great news for the environment as well.

A home with good insulation will reduce heating and cooling costs, improve indoor air quality, reduce noise pollution and leave behind a smaller carbon footprint, all of which are valuable selling points for your home. Additionally, as energy costs continue to rise, re-insulating your home can help to mitigate the cost increases for future owners of your home, making it a sound financial investment.

Adding or replacing old insulation is a relatively affordable project that can be done quickly, especially when compared to other home improvement projects with high return on investment. In fact, according to Remodeler Magazine’s annual “Cost vs. Value” report, upgrading your attic with fiberglass insulation is the highest returning home improvement project, recouping 117% of its initial cost in increased home value upon sale.

As more and more homeowners are becoming aware of the benefits of insulation, they are increasingly seeking this feature when buying a new home. Appraisers are also taking note of the energy efficiency features of a home, as they are seen as investments in future savings and sustainability, and can help to boost a home’s market value.

A well-insulated home is a warm, cozy home and it will stay that way all year round – even during the harsh winter weather! In addition, a well-insulated home will allow the HVAC system to work more efficiently as it won’t be working so hard to maintain your preferred temperature.

Reduces Health Issues

Insulation does more than increase energy efficiency. It is also a crucial element in controlling indoor temperature, sound and humidity levels and providing a healthier environment for people to live and work in. This can make a significant difference to the quality of life for elderly and socially disadvantaged people as well as reducing energy costs, which are often a major financial burden.

Insufficient insulation allows outdoor air pollutants like pollen, dust mites and mold to enter and accumulate in the home. These irritants can cause breathing problems, dry throats, itchy eyes and other respiratory issues. They can also impact indoor air quality (IAQ) and contribute to long-term health problems.

Poor insulation can also cause moisture accumulation and damage to structures, which is an issue because of the potential health risks it presents. Wet insulation can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can release spores into the home and spread throughout the air. This can be a serious problem for those with weak immune systems, young children and the elderly.

When wet, fiberglass insulation can also release formaldehyde into the home. This is an issue because formaldehyde has been linked to a range of health issues, including eye, nose and throat irritation and asthma symptoms. It can also trigger allergies and may even cause cancer in some cases. Insulation made of natural materials, such as cellulose, wool and cotton can avoid this issue because they don’t release any chemicals or off-gasses.

In addition, cellulose and wool insulation are made of recycled paper products, making them environmentally friendly. Wool and cellulose can also be treated with fire retardants, meaning that they are resistant to both flames and smoke. In tests, a home insulated with cellulose and treated with borate has been shown to resist fire for longer than an uninsulated home.

The type of insulation that is best for your home depends on your climate. Some insulation is better suited to cold climates, where it prevents heat from escaping, while other types are more effective in hot climates, where they block out unwanted heat.

Window Cleaning Tips

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Professionals use a sponge, a squeegee with a long pole handle (if necessary) and cloths or chamois to clean windows. They work on one pane at a time and wipe them horizontally and vertically.

Window Cleaning

They may spray a vinegar and water solution or a commercial window cleaner on the glass, and then sluice it off with a squeegee. They wipe the squeegee blade clean after each stroke and dry the sill with a soft cloth or lint free rag.

A clean window is a wonderful thing, but it takes more than just a little soap and water to get there. Professionals use a variety of cleaning solutions and techniques to achieve the best results, especially for high-rise buildings where there are often many windows.

First, they may use a broom or dusting brush to remove as much dirt as possible from the frames and sills. They may then wash the frames with a solution of mild detergent or specialist cleaner for uPVC windows. For tough dirt or grime, a soft sponge or even a bit of scouring powder can be helpful. If the frames are particularly grubby, they might need to be scrubbed by hand before being rinsed and allowed to dry.

After washing the frame, they might wipe it with a microfiber cloth dampened with a solution of vinegar and water or a commercial cleanser. Then they might move onto the glass, washing it a section at a time to avoid letting the soap suds dry and leaving streaks. Depending on the type of glass, they might follow this by drying it with a lint-free cloth or sponge or, for a more sparkling result, a chamois.

Once the glass is clean, they might repeat the process with the frames and squeegee the window. They might also use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe any drips off the edges of the glass and dry it with a lint-free towel or newspaper pages.

For larger picture windows, they might use a technique called the snake, which involves pulling the squeegee across the window in one long stroke. Starting at an upper corner, they might work their way down to the opposite lower corner, overlapping each stroke slightly and wiping the rubber edge of the squeegee on the towel after each pass.

They might repeat this whole process for every pane in the window, checking carefully for streaks before moving on to the next area. For a final polish, they might dip a clean microfiber cloth or chamois into a mug of cold tea, as seen on some cleaning groups. It’s said that the tannins in the tea help to break down any residual soap suds, so the window will shine without leaving a mark.

Window Cleaning Equipment

Professional window cleaning equipment includes tools like squeegees, scrubbers, and cleaning solutions. Professional squeegees have metal frames and replaceable rubber blades for long-lasting use. They come in different sizes for the various windows you clean, and a few specialty blades for stubborn stains. To keep your supplies organized, consider holsters and belts that hold all of your cleaning materials for easy access. You’ll also need a bucket for your cleaning solution, and be sure to choose one that fits the size of your squeegees and other tools.

Ladders are another important piece of window cleaning equipment, and be sure to select a sturdy ladder that is safe to use on uneven surfaces. For high-rise buildings, you may need to add ladder stabilizers to make the job safer and more efficient. You should also invest in a window washing solution that is effective on grease and grime. For example, a commercial dish soap like Dawn or Palmolive mixed with water can tackle most exterior window stains without requiring the use of harsh chemicals.

If you’re looking for a more advanced tool, try a commercial window washing drone that utilizes soft wash cleaning technology. This method of window washing uses low-pressure water jets and detergents, or a chemical solution like Lucid Clear that leaves a streak-free and spot-free perfect shine for your windows. This window cleaning drone eliminates the need for workers to touch the glass, which reduces the risk of injuries and makes the job much faster and more efficient.

If you’re a professional window cleaner, it’s important to keep up with the latest trends in window cleaning equipment and techniques. Becoming an expert in window cleaning is the best way to guarantee quality results for your clients and stay competitive in the industry. Consider partnering with us today to learn more about how our commercial window cleaning drone can help you streamline your process and take your business to the next level! Reach out to a Squeegee Squad location near you to receive a quote for our commercial window cleaning services. Our teams of experts are standing by to assist you!

Window Cleaning Tips

If you want your windows to shine like new and stay free of streaks, you’ll need to take care not only of the glass but also of the frames. Start by wiping the frames with a damp cloth to remove any dirt that’s stuck. If the frame is stained or discolored, use a bit of mineral spirits on a soft rag to remove any blemishes that won’t come off with plain soapy water.

Once the frames are clean, wipe the window panes, starting from the top down and working over the whole surface. Don’t skip any areas of the glass, and always keep a clean lint-free towel or the rubber blade of your squeegee dry in between passes. This will help prevent drips and a wet film from forming on the glass.

Streaks often occur during the drying process, so it’s important to pay attention to how you dry the glass. To avoid streaks, try to vary the direction you wipe while drying, as this will reduce any build-up of water spots or soap residue.

You should also consider using a microfiber cloth for wiping your windows, as these are far more effective than paper towels, which can leave behind lint. And if you’re cleaning hard-to-reach or out-of-the-way windows, a telescoping pole with microfiber cloths (such as Ettore’s 6-inch squeegee in our guide to the best window squeegees) will let you reach even the highest parts of your windows without having to teeter on a ladder.

Lastly, if you encounter any stubborn residuals on your glass, such as tree sap, adhesives or other stains, use a bit of fine steel wool to buff them away before washing the window again. Just be careful not to use too much pressure so you don’t scratch the glass. And make sure you’re wearing a dust mask when using the steel wool.

One final tip that Laura shares is to start with the frames first, so you don’t get any dirty water on the clean windows. And if you’re unsure what to use for the frame, don’t be afraid to reach for a quirky cleaning hack that we saw shared on some online forums—a kitchen towel dipped in cold tea should do the trick!

Window Cleaning Solutions

Professional window cleaners use various cleaning solutions to remove dirt and grime from windows without leaving streaks. They also use these products to wash windows and other surfaces, such as mirrors, stainless steel appliances, vinyl siding and doors. They may also clean and polish exterior windows with a soft brush and a soft, lint-free cloth.

The best window cleaning solution is a mixture of liquid dish soap and distilled water, which offers impressive cleaning power with no streaking. Professionals sometimes add rubbing alcohol or isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol to this solution for an extra boost of cleaning strength, and they may also incorporate cornstarch for added mild abrasive action that breaks down mineral deposits. This type of solution can be found in a variety of commercial and store-bought cleaning products, but it is much cheaper to make at home using household supplies.

Before washing a window, professionals typically sweep the area around it to remove loose dirt and debris. This step helps prevent dirty water from mixing with the dirt and grime on the windows, resulting in sludge and streaks. They may also wipe the frames, hinges and tracks with a soft, lint-free cotton cloth.

Depending on the type of windows, cleaning agents may include liquid dish soap, such as Dawn, or vinegar. Vinegar is an excellent choice for removing grease and other sticky substances, but it can also leave streaks. To reduce the risk of streaks, a diluted mixture of ten parts water to one part white distilled vinegar can be used to clean windows.

Some professional window cleaners also utilize a solution of rubbing alcohol and vinegar, which provides both cleaning power and a quick drying effect. In addition, they may use a mild abrasive, such as baking soda, to help break down hard-water mineral deposits and to scrub stubborn spots.

A few other cleaning products that are often used by professionals include a non-phosphate bowl cleaner, such as AJAX, and hydrochloric acid bleach, which is an effective and powerful degreaser. These products, however, are not recommended for use on finished surfaces, including metal fixtures, paint and furnishings, because they can damage these materials if allowed to soak in too long.

Identifying Roof Repair and Replacement Issues

Roofing No Comments

Roof damage is a common problem that requires prompt attention. If left untreated, it can lead to a domino effect that ultimately costs homeowners money and peace of mind.

Roof Repair

Start with a visual inspection of the area surrounding your home. Look for dents in plastic roof vents and broken seams in metal ones. Contact A. Parker Contracting for professional help.

That roof over your head can endure a lot of weather, but it can’t last forever. Over time, loose or sagging shingles, worn flashing and clogged gutters can lead to water damage that eats away at structural members, causing them to degrade. That’s why identifying and repairing roof issues early is important for your home’s safety and comfort.

Repairs are usually less expensive than replacement and often entail fixing components other than the shingles themselves. For example, a roof repair might include replacing or patching a hole in the venting system, attic insulation, or other parts of the roofing structure. The repair can also involve addressing problems with the chimney, skylights or other fixtures on the roof.

Leaks are the most common issue that leads to roof repair and replacement, especially if they occur in areas where protrusions or seams intersect with the rest of the roof, such as at dormers, chimneys and skylights. Cracks in the shingles, faulty caulking, improper ventilation and other factors can cause leaks around these points.

The type of climate where you live can also affect the kind of issues your roof experiences. For example, humid climates are susceptible to algae streaking on the roof surface, while snowy environments can experience ice damming. This occurs when a buildup of ice blocks the flow of melting snow and causes it to back up under shingles. The resulting weight can cause shingles to degrade or even tear off.

Other signs that your roof needs repair or replacement include moss growth, sagging or buckling of the decking and rotting in attic beams. You should also keep an eye out for shingle discoloration, especially if the colors change. This can indicate that the shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan or have been damaged by hail or other forces.

In addition to routine cleaning and inspection, it’s a good idea to have emergency repairs done after a major storm and at regular intervals throughout the year. This will ensure that problems are addressed as they arise, minimizing the likelihood of more costly repair and replacement work in the future.

Getting an Estimate

An estimate, also known as a roof quote, should detail all of the work that a contractor plans to do on your home’s roof. This includes the price of materials and the labor cost to install them. A good estimate will make it clear whether a roofing repair or a roof replacement project is in order.

It should also include a warranty for the materials. The length of this warranty can vary from company to company. It’s important to check with a couple of different contractors and ask them about the length of their warranties.

Before the contractor gives you a quote, they should go on top of your house and walk around the roof. They should look at the condition of the shingles and the flashings that connect them to the sheathing or decking. They should also inspect the ventilation and ridge vents. These components are crucial for preventing moisture buildup in the attic and lowering your energy bills.

If they find any problems, the estimate should include a list of repairs and their prices. These repairs should be addressed as soon as possible, because they can lead to bigger problems if not fixed immediately. Minor repairs, such as shingle replacement or fixing leaky areas, are usually the lowest in cost and don’t take very long to complete.

You should also ask your contractor about the flashings on your roof, as these are important for directing water flow away from certain parts of your home, like chimneys and walls, or into open valleys. If your existing flashings are in good shape, your contractor may be able to reuse them and cut down on costs. The estimate should also specify the type of metal the flashings will be made of and where they’ll be placed on your roof.

If your roof is in severe disrepair, it’s probably time to replace it. A new roof can protect your home from the elements and give you peace of mind. It can also add value to your property and lower your insurance rates.

Choosing a Roofing Contractor

Choosing the right roofing contractor for your roof repair or replacement project is critical to its long-term success. A roof is a complex building component composed of many separate components that must work together with total synchronicity. If even one of these parts is installed incorrectly, it will quickly fail.

To ensure that you hire a qualified and trustworthy roofing contractor, you must do some research and carefully evaluate multiple candidates. Ask potential contractors for references and read online reviews. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, invite them to your home to inspect the roofing system and scope out the work. During this inspection, ask the contractors to explain the roofing materials they use and how they will proceed with the work.

A reputable contractor will provide a written estimate after the inspection. This will include a complete breakdown of the cost of materials and labor, along with any additional expenses. This estimate will help you create an accurate budget for your roofing repair or replacement project and compare estimates from different contractors.

It is also important to check with the state licensing agency in your area to make sure that your roofer is properly licensed to do business in your community. Also, make sure that your contractor carries proper insurance coverage for both workers’ compensation and general liability. 

You should also check with your local building authority to see if a permit is required for reroofing. If a contractor recommends that you skip this step to save money, it is a red flag and should be a major factor in your decision-making process.

When it comes to hiring a roofing contractor, it is best to stick with a local professional as they will be better acquainted with the specific building codes and weather conditions of your area. This familiarity will make it easier for you to communicate with them during the project and ensure that the job is done correctly.

Getting Started

Your roof is an integral part of your home, protecting you and everything within from harsh weather conditions and falling debris. However, even the sturdiest roof can succumb to damage over time. When that happens, it is important to take the proper steps to address it quickly and effectively to preserve your property and prevent further damage.

While replacing your roof may be the best option in severe cases of damage, a repair is often a more cost-effective and less invasive solution. Roof repair focuses on fixing specific components of your roof that are leaking or having other minor issues, rather than removing and replacing the entire roof. Whether you need to repair your roof after a recent storm or because of aging, it is important to make the right decision to protect your investment.

If you decide to opt for a roof repair, there are some things that you can do to prepare. First, be sure to choose the right contractor for the job. Experienced roofing contractors bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table that can help ensure your project is a success. Additionally, choosing a contractor with a good track record can help reduce the risk of problems during and after the installation process.

It is also a good idea to get a complete inspection of your roof as soon as possible. Even small leaks can cause big problems if left unchecked for long periods of time. For example, a leaking flashing can lead to mold, rotted framing and sheathing, destroyed insulation and water-stained ceilings.

It is also a good idea to go up into the attic, crawl space or whatever room you have access to that’s closest to your roof. Get your smart phone out and start taking pictures, making sure they have a clear sequence and are focused on the areas that need to be repaired. Look for anything out of the ordinary, especially stains, drips or standing water. Don’t forget to check out your gutters, as these can be a source of leaks if they are clogged or rusting.

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