Category Archives: Contractors

Chiller Noise No Longer Problem After Acoustifence Barrier Installed

Installation of a 24-foot noise barrier utilizing Acoustifence outdoor sound abatement material at the new Sheboygan Festival Foods store is complete, ending complaints from nearby residents over extreme levels of noise leaking from the store’s industrial refrigeration chillers into the community.

Folks in Sheboygen were celebrating when the popular Wisconsin-based Festival Foods grocery chain opened the 70,000 square foot mega store here on September 16, 2011. Less than two weeks later, the community’s warm welcome had grown icy as neighbors began to complain about noise from the store’s industrial refrigeration chiller that was so loud, it violated the city’s noise ordinance.

Festival Foods enlisted the help of Acoustical Engineer Eric Wolfram of Milwaukee-based Scott R. Riedel & Associates, LTD, who consulted with Acoustiblok’s Jay Boland to choose Acoustifence noise barrier material, a product of Acoustiblok, Inc. of Tampa Florida, to bring the decibel level down below the legal threshold and restore peace and quiet to the neighboring community.

When Wolfram first investigated the site in September, decibel readings ranged between 78.4 and 90.7, loud enough to be a risk for noise-related health problems to nearby residents and workers, had they been subjected to the noise over time. The Sheboygan Department of City Development demanded the level be reduced by at least five decibels, Wolfram said.

“The existing refrigeration pump and motor systems produce extreme noise levels,” Wolfram said. “This noise reverberates within the sheet-metal paneled enclosure interior and escapes through several different exhaust and ventilation openings.

“Additional noise was generated by the cooling and exhaust fans mounted above the enclosure.”

Working with sound consultants from Acoustiblok, Inc., Wolfram designed a two-step solution, creating a barrier with Acoustifence noise deadening material to block noise around the massive system, and incorporating another Acoustiblok product, QuietFiber, to help reduce sound from reflecting off of the taller adjacent building behind the chillers.

Minimal structural changes were required, as the â…›- inch Acoustifence was easily attached to an existing chain link fence and the outdoor-rated QuietFiber with a perforated metal cover was capconed to the building.

The results were better than Wolfram had hoped, with decibel levels reduced to 57.3 the moment the barrier was in place – well below the City’s legal threshold, and more than 20 decibels lower than before the Acoustiblok products were installed. Neighbors are no longer bombarded with the irritating chiller noise, now replaced with the ordinary ambient sounds that existed before.

“Sounds from local traffic and roadways exceeded that of the compressor equipment after installation of the Acoustifence and QuietFiber products,” Wolfram said.

Lahnie Johnson, founder and president of Acoustiblok, Inc., applauded Festival Foods’ quick action in addressing the noise complaints right away, stating that the product combination was the perfect solution for this particular type of noise challenge.

“The Acoustifence and QuietFIber treatments were the perfect solution for the Festival Foods chiller noise, as both of these materials are designed to hold up in inclement weather, and as you can see from the results, they do their job well beyond everyone’s expectations,” Johnson said. “The Acoustifence and Quiet Fiber are also substantially less costly than attempting a structural enclosure solution.”

For more information on industrial noise solutions, visit the Acoustiblok website, Email sales@acoustiblok.com, or call 813-980-1400.

Via EPR Network
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Acoustiblok Creates Damped, Expandable Acoustical Envelope in New York ITB Recording Studio

Acoustiblok noise abatement material was installed in the nearly completed Artist Workshop Studios recording facility, an in-the-box (ITB) studio designed and built by Artist Workshop Studios owner Tom Donofrio. Acoustiblok was chosen to provide a sound barrier for the small, 12 foot x 12 foot basement studio that could drop decibels levels within the space and provide a neutral acoustical environment for recording.

Donofrio, an electrical engineer, and musician who has built recording studios in the past using different sound deadening materials, chose Acoustiblok for his newest project after consulting with Marilyn Myers of Acoustiblok, Inc., because of its sound damping and noise blocking qualities, as well as its thin, flexible structure that adds no volume to walls within the studio space. Attached to the studs before drywall is hung, Acoustiblok performs without the need to add layers of rigid drywall or modified drywall, a method Donofrio used in the past with mixed results and significant floor space reduction.

“I was looking for a product that would lower the decibels in the studio without taking up any additional space,” Donofrio said. “I was able to achieve the neutral acoustics desired in the space, which makes me extremely happy.

“I didn’t want a sound quality that was too dead or too live, so the Acoustiblok turned out to be an excellent choice.”

Donofrio and a friend were able to hang the 3mm Acoustiblok on the newly framed stud walls within the studio space, including cutouts around a window and electric sockets, and seal the seams according to installation recommendations, all in less than four hours.

The Artist Workshop Studios recording space was built for Donofrio to indulge his own talents as an acoustical guitarist and vocalist, and to be made available to artists on a budget who need an affordable studio with high quality production equipment and the expertise of a seasoned technician to record a song or album.

“Acoustiblok is a perfect choice for establishing sound quality within a sound recording studio like this one,” said Lahnie Johnson, president and founder of Acoustiblok, Inc.

“Unlike additional drywall or other solid rigid materials used for sound reduction, the 1/8-inch heavy, limp Acoustiblok allows the room to be a damped, expandable acoustical envelope. As such, a studio or home theater has less reflection and actually sounds significantly better.”

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Quiet Fiber® Used to Quiet Industrial Generator Noise at Galleria 360 in Santo Domingo

Installation of 18,000 square feet of non-fiberlass Quiet Fiber® noise abatement material has been completed in the massive generator room of the newly constructed, 750,000 square foot Galleria 360 mall in Santo Domingo.

Quiet Fiber, a product of Acoustiblok, Inc. in Tampa, Florida, was installed on the ceiling and walls of the mall’s generator and substation rooms. These rooms house the industrial emergency generators necessary to keep power running in this coastal area of the Caribbean, plagued by frequent power outages.

The Galleria 360’s industrial generators, installed by Santa Domingo-based Edelca, are a staple in this island republic. Edelca owner Carlos Montos, Edelca consulted with Jay Boland of Acoustiblok, Inc., and used Quiet Fiber on the project after achieving excellent results with Quiet Fiber on a similar project at the La Sirna Superstore in the eastern coastal town of Higuey, Dominican Republic.

“Even though Quiet Fiber is not the least expensive product on the market, I keep coming back to it because the results beat all the competitors’ noise deadening products with double the noise insulating qualities,” Montos said. “The customer on this job wanted to install a double layer of a different product but I convinced him to try the Quiet Fiber.

“I’ve been designing and installing these emergency generators for 20 years, and I have never had the results from other noise abatement products that I have with Quiet Fiber, and now I’m trying to use it everywhere.”

Montos says noise from these industrial generators on which the island has become dependent in order to maintain consistent power is a major problem plaguing businesses and residential property owners when the generators are running. Not only is generator noise bad for business, but its constant drone can cause permanent hearing loss. Another important consideration in the selection of soundproofing material is its fire resistance.

Recently in Santo Domingo a serious fire started in a generator room, and the existing foam sound proofing material was a prime contributor. The fire caused Montos to search for a new fireproof solution. Quiet Fiber is fire resistant even at 2,000 degrees.

“The noise levels are almost unbearable, so you need to have an adequate level of soundproofing in place when they are running,” Montos said. “I always install noise absorbing material wherever I install my generators, and Quiet Fiber is the best soundproofing product we’ve ever used.”

Montos and his crew were able to easily cut the Quiet Fiber to fit around electric conduits, and secured the material to the walls and ceiling with standard insulation stick pins.

The sound deadening qualities of Quiet Fiber will help to protect the mall’s employees, and streams of tourists and local residents from the high volume industrial noise caused by the generators when they are operating.

Lahnie Johnson, president and founder of Acoustiblok, Inc., says that the application of Quiet Fiber in the Galleria 360 generator and substation rooms was exactly what was needed for addressing the high decibel, reverberant sound emanating from the concrete walls.

“Quiet Fiber was designed with this type of hot, humid environment in mind,” Johnson said. “When you’re addressing solid surface noise issues, which in this case with concrete walls, you need a product with proven maximum sound absorption, high temperature rating for fire blocking, and hydrophobic (resistant to moisture).”

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Tool-NET Sales Heat Up This Spring

Online tool superstore Tool-NET has reported that the unusually warm spring weather caused a spike in product purchases from their range of DIY tools. With an unseasonably hot March, Tool-NET has experienced significant growth in sales of gardening and DIY tools and accessories. This is largely thanks to UK householders shaking off their winter inertia and starting projects in the home and garden.

The hot March weather appears to have encouraged a lot of fair-weather spending. The British Retail Consortium claim retail sales across the board were up year-on-year by 1.3% in March, with clothes, barbecue foods and gardening goods as the most popular products. Online retailers saw rises of 13.9%, and Tool-NET saw an even stronger sales rise.

Tool-Net has developed a strong customer base among trade tool purchasers, DIY fanatics and casual purchasers of tools for the home and garden. Offering a no-nonsense returns policy and dispatch times where 98% of orders are sent out the day they are received, Tool-NET also offers strong savings with discounts of up to 70% off list prices. These are available on a wide range of more than 6500 power tools, gardening accessories, fixings, fastenings, hand tools, ancillaries and consumables.

Another factor which has helped Tool-NET sales heat up this spring is an ever-growing catalogue. With new lines being added daily it has never been easier for customers to find the right tool at the right price.

Among the new gardening lines which are proving popular is the innovative cordless gardening multi-tool from CEL-UK. The PS1 Powerstick dispenses with the hassle and trip hazard of a cord while adding an unrivalled versatility which allows it to convert effortlessly from a grass trimmer to a hedge trimmer to a garden rake and broom.

More traditional brands continue to fare well in the fair weather, too. Black & Decker’s reputation for performance and reliability at an attractive price has been continued in its latest range of gardening tools, including chainsaws, hedge trimmers, line trimmers, blower/vacs and lawn mowers.

With its ever-expanding catalogue, competitive pricing and fast dispatch times Tool-NET is continuing to help fuel the UK’s spring clean of gardens and homes.

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Tool-NET Advises Homeowners To Get Ready For Summer Now

Leading online garden and power tool retailer Tool-NET.co.uk today urged homeowners that in the run-up to spring now is the best time to get those outside spaces ready for summer.

Tool-NET has highlighted five jobs that should be an essential part of summer preparations this spring:

Clean gutters may not be the first thing commented on by summer guests, but nonetheless, spring is the best time to get those gutters clear of the leaves, twigs, and debris left in winter’s wake. Failing to do this can lead to clogged water being driven under the eaves of the house and ultimately into its walls.

Decking that has been scrubbed down and protected with decking oil will not only look a lot better and help frame your outdoor space, it will also last a lot longer.

Sorting your shed out will make storing gardening equipment, along with barbecues and chairs, so much easier. First, throw away or recycle what you do not need. Next organise what is left into groups and then store it in boxes, on shelves or on hooks. Try to keep things off the floor to maximise your space.

Now you can turn your attention to the garden. Rake your lawn to remove dead growth, stray leaves and twigs. This will give the soil the light and air it needs to support grass growth. If you spot bare or damaged patches of lawn, spring is a great time to reseed them before the garden gets heavy use in the summer.

Finally, weed your beds before unwanted plants become established. Now is the time to move any shrubs you wish to relocate so they can establish themselves in their new location. Use an organic dormant oil spray to remove pests who have overwintered in your fruit trees, magnolias, crab apples and shrubs.

Tool-NET is currently offering discounts of up to 70% off the list price of gardening tools and other power and hand tools so that, whatever tool you need for your garden, it needn’t cost the earth.

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Tool-NET: The Best New Tools And Accessories Available

Since the start of this year the team at Tool-NET.co.uk have been adding innovative new products to its already extensive range of power tools, hand tools, accessories, site equipment and consumables. You can now browse and order more than 6500 products from big name brands and hard-to-source specialist suppliers alike.

The buying team at Tool-NET have taken a short break from their endless search for the latest and greatest tools and accessories to rate and review the latest products to appear online and pick their favourites.

First up is the small but perfectly formed hammer drill from Bosch (GBH18VLI-CP). A plumber’s or electrician’s dream come true this tiny hammer drill weighs in at just 1.9kg and measures just 278mm. Like a champion flyweight boxer, however, this incredibly light tool packs a punch much more powerful than you may expect. It is capable of delivering an unrivalled power-to-weight ratio of 1.7 joules to 2.6 kg. Small, light and strong and perfect for those working in confined and cramped conditions.

Keeping with the small but perfectly formed theme is the latest cordless Jigsaw from Makita. The JV100DZ delivers the sort of power you would expect from a much heavier, corded model but weighs only 1.7kg. With a list price of £80.00 Tool-Net customers need puzzle no longer about this Jigsaw purchase as it is available from Tool-NET at only £44.40.

The Sliders are the latest offerings from Van Vault and they offer all the safe, secure, strong and convenient tool storage that has come to be associated with this manufacturer. These ultra-strong tool drawers will slot into the floor-space of any commercial vehicle and are tough enough to take the heaviest load piled upon them. With a list price starting from £319 exc. VAT Tool-NET customers can safely expect to pay no more than £274.86.

With hundreds of new products being added to the Tool-NET catalogue there are many other great new products at fantastic prices available on Tool-NET. Tool-Net can help you find the right tool for the job at the right price.

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Brits Enjoy Best Choice of Home Improvement Companies Thanks to Doubleglazinglocal.co.uk Local Search

Doubleglazinglocal.co.uk is helping more UK consumers to source the perfect locally-based home improvement company thanks to the website’s dedicated local search facility.

Powerful local search capabilities like that available through Doubleglazinglocal.co.uk allow consumers to quickly and conveniently source the best locally-based home improvement company for their needs – whether they are looking for windows, solar panels or double glazing doors.

Peter Jakubek, Interactive Director at DoubleGlazingLocal.co.uk, says, “We are able to help our site users source the ideal home improvement company in their vicinity thanks to the power of our local search functionality. We want to help UK consumers continue to learn the lessons of unscrupulous traders – there are far too many cold-callers and dishonest suppliers around these days.”

“Our site and local search functionality only ever offer our users approved companies which have adhered to our strict standards and guidelines. Local search has helped us to build lots of new business and leads recently, with suppliers listed able to give quotes on everything from standard patio doors through to sash windows prices.”

Google continues to dominate the online local search sector, and is being joined by other services this year including those offered by Facebook, Twitter and Google Plus. Companies are today aware that local search gives them enhanced exposure and access to new customers all over the country.

Peter Jakubek goes on, “Local search has helped us to build our own business and to offer better, approved companies to our users. Consumers know that they can trust Doubleglazinglocal.co.uk to put them in touch with the most trustworthy local suppliers in the home improvement space – for all solutions from standard windows through to even triple glazing.”

DoubleGlazingLocal.co.uk reports that consumers are now more aware of the tricks utilised by rogue salesman and cold callers, and third party recommendation is enabling them to make more informed choices of suppliers.

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Tool-Net: Making Winter Easier

This chilly time of year can be very difficult if you work outdoors as a builder, joiner, mechanic or another type of labourer. If you shop with Tool-Net, you can find a whole world of products which make these winter months a lot more straightforward.

Icy conditions, freezing temperatures and dangerous weather conditions are just some of the things that you will have to combat over the next few months, so it is important that you take care and make your job easier. There are many products and items available in the Tool-Net catalogue that can help you do this.

Some of these include:
• How annoying can it be having to take your tools and equipment home with you every night? If you leave them on site they are prone to weather damage, especially at this time of the year. The Van Vault Site Store Strong Box therefore is an essential item; designed to store and protect tools, flammables, chemicals and other substances. Available for £662.40 (RRP £790.50).

• Another product that could come in handy includes the Clarke air compressor. This is perfect if you are looking to apply pressure to any number of devices. This air compressor is known for its durability and has a reputation for high performance. Yours for just £662.22 (RRP £1,120.74).

All you need to do to make your winter months a lot less complicated is log on to the easy to use Tool-Net website. Soon you could be performing your day-to-day job in a much more straightforward manner. If you struggle to get online when at home, you can access a mobile-friendly version of the website from your smartphone. On top of the wide range of items in the store that can make the next few months a lot more bearable, Tool-Net give you seven days to return your products. So if you are not happy with what you have bought, you get a ‘no fuss’ returns period.

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Gamma Continues Momentum – Opening Five New Offices In North American By End of 2012

Gamma U.S.A., Inc. and Gamma Windows and Walls International Inc. (Canada) – -divisions of the Far East Global Group Limited and ranking among the largest curtain wall, window wall and recladding companies in North America and the world – – announced today North American expansion plans over the next 10 months.

According to Gamma Chairman Elliot Kracko, “the company is growing and is scheduled to open five new North American offices in the next 10 months – – by the end of 2012. These include offices in Chicago, Boston, Washington, D.C., Texas and Toronto, Canada.”

Today, the company has 200 employees in operations located in New York City, Miami, Quebec City and Montreal. Gamma’s fabrication facilities are located at its North American, state-of-the-art plants – – the 160,000 sf fabrication plant in Miami and the 85,000 sf plant facility in Quebec City, Canada. Gamma also offers fabrication, at customers’ choice, at one of Far East Global’s three major plants in China which exceed 1 million sf of plant area.

“Gamma is known for ‘Performance Assured,’” explains Kracko. “For clients, this means three key things: the highest level of client responsiveness and certainty that the complexities of a project will be anticipated and addressed; that the job will be ‘done right’ in terms of quality, scheduling and budget; and the highest level of predictability for a smooth construction journey with minimal impacts to performance.

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Gamma Named To Engineering News Record’s (ENR) 2011 Lists Of Top Speciality Contractors And Top Glazing And Curtain Wall Companies

Gamma U.S.A, Inc. – – a division of the Far East Global Group Limited and one of the largest curtain wall, window wall and recladding companies in North America and the world – – was named for the first time both to ENR’s annual listing of specialty construction contractors and top 20 glazing and curtain wall companies in the field for the year 2010. ENR published the lists and story in its issue of October 17, 2011.

Gamma was listed as the number 5 glazing and curtain wall company and number 257 among specialty contractors.

According to Elliot Kracko, Gamma Chairman, “we are proud and delighted to be included in these ENR prestigious listings of leading companies. It reflects our momentum of the last 12 months.”

About Gamma
Today, the company has 200 employees in operations located in New York City, Miami, Quebec City and Montreal. Gamma’s fabrication facilities are located at its North American, state-of-the-art plants – – the 160,000 sf fabrication plant in Miami and the 85,000 sf plant facility in Quebec City, Canada. Gamma also offers fabrication, at customers’ choice, at one of Far East Global’s three major plants in China.

Gamma has a 40-plus year track record in aluminum and glass products, curtain wall, recladding and window wall. Kracko and his 25-year management team have installed curtain wall on notable buildings for the most respected commercial and residential high rise owners, developers, general contractors, construction managers and public entities along the eastern seaboard from Canada to New York City and South Florida.

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Acoustiblok Named “Best Practices” Customer by Hubspot Internet Marketing

Eighteen months after adopting Hubspot’s all-in-one marketing platform, Tampa, Florida-based Acoustiblok has increased website traffic by 210 percent, increased organic search leads by 307 percent, and increased customer transactions by 40 percent, contributing to Acoustiblok’s record sales increases in 2011.

Hubspot named Acoustiblok a “Best Practices” customer based on its application of Hubspot marketing tools for website management, blogging, search engine optimization (SEO), lead management, marketing analytics, social media monitoring, and website analysis.

“Being recognized by an industry leader as a “best practices” customer is a real accomplishment, and one we’ve worked hard to achieve,” said Liz Ernst, director of public relations for Acoustiblok, Inc. “We have a small marketing and PR team, and we had been trying different approaches to increasing traffic and drawing attention to our Acoustiblok soundproofing product line, and our Thermablok aerogel insulating strips.

“Hubspot gave us some serious one-on-one attention and guidance to understand where to best devote our efforts for the greatest return on our marketing and PR campaigns.”

Acoustiblok President and Founder Lahnie Johnson says that Hubspot provided the traffic building tools he had been looking for in order to achieve the huge growth goals the company had set for itself.

“We knew we had to get more web traffic, and that more traffic would equate to more leads,” Johnson said. “We were able to use the HubSpot software to help us with our traffic building initiatives, and our leads increased dramatically as our traffic increased.”

HubSpot, Inc., based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, provides an all-in-one marketing software platform used by more than 5000 companies in 34 countries. HubSpot is also the developer of WebsiteGrader.com, a website analysis tool with more than 3 million users. HubSpot, Inc. was founded in 2006.

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Acoustifence Installed at Coca-Cola Plant To Reduce Industrial Noise Pollution

Coca-Cola has completed installation of Acoustifence® noise barrier fencing along the west perimeter of its Bay City plant, bringing to an abrupt halt those noise issues that had been plaguing neighbors in the surrounding community and attracting local news organizations as the outcry from area residents grew.

Architect Jack Zelazny of Dearborn, Michigan, acting as a consultant to Coca Cola’s contractor Kirco Manix, chose Acoustifence noise barrier fencing for the core of the 300 foot wide noise barrier project designed to alleviate noise from idling delivery trucks at the plant that had been plaguing neighbors in the South End Community.

Zelazny said the initial plan was to construct a 30 foot acoustical metal fence along the perimeter roadway to address the problem, but he nixed the idea in favor of something significantly less expensive and more aesthetically pleasing to the community’s residents.

“I didn’t think it was appropriate for the neighbors to have to stare at a 30 foot industrial metal fence from their small residential yards,” Zelazny said. “I really wanted to find something more organic and natural.”

After researching sound barrier fencing options, he found Acoustifence, a product of Acoustiblok, Inc. in Tampa Florida, and discussed his options with acoustical consultant Paul Getts of Acoustiblok. After conferring with Getts, Zelazny moved ahead with construction of a grass covered, 300 foot wide berm that incorporated a nine foot high Acoustifence barrier and landscaping for an attractive roadside aesthetic. The project was completed in the final weeks of December, and both company officials and neighbors rang in the New Year with their new found peace and quiet.

“The Acoustifence went up flawlessly, and it’s not unpleasant to look at,” Zelazny said. “When we covered it with the dark green acoustical fabric covering it looked natural and organic, as we had hoped.

“But the real surprise was the immediate impact it had on the noise.”

Zelazny said the plant noise measured at 89 decibels before installation of the Acoustifence began, and registered at 68 decibels immediately after the Acoustifence went up. His hope was to lower the noise by 20 decibels, a figure that was exceeded at the plant, and more than doubled at the neighboring residence as soon as the Acoustifence was put in place. A reading taken at the adjacent residential property registered in the low to mid 40 decibel range.

“It exceeded my expectations, I think it exceeded everyone’s expectations,” he said.“The people at Coca Cola are happy with it, and most importantly the neighbors in the surrounding community are happy with it.

“I couldn’t speak more highly of it.”

Lahnie Johnson, president and founder of Acoustiblok, Inc., said that the application of Acoustifence in the bottling plant’s noise barrier berm was the soft drink company’s best alternative for significantly reducing noise, and respecting the surrounding community’s call for peace and quiet.

“I think Coca Cola acted quickly and responded to the area’s residents as a good corporate neighbor should,” Johnson said. “It’s particularly important that they sought out a serious noise blocking option while respecting the fact that neighboring residents would be living with whatever solution they chose, and viewing it every day – some from their own back yards.”

Acoustifence was designed to address outdoor noise pollution in residential communities, or any community that cares about its appearance.”

ABOUT ACOUSTIFENCE:
Originally developed as a noise barrier on loud offshore oil rigs, Acoustifence is a simple and economical first-step noise abatement solution for both residential and commercial usage.

A 1/8-inch (3mm) thick unique sound deadening material measuring 6 feet (1.82 meters) high by 30 feet (9.14 meters) long with black anodized brass eyelets along the top and bottom edge for easy attachment to any existing fence or structure. Heavy-duty nylon ties are included with each roll. Easily installed or removed in less than one hour, impervious to mold, mildew, and UV, Acoustifence is virtually indestructible. The soundproofing material in Acoustifence is a proprietary formula of the Acoustiblok Corporation, developed and refined over a 10-year period.

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Gamma Adds New Senior Curtain Wall Construction Executives In U.S. and Canada

Gamma U.S.A., Inc. and Gamma Windows and Walls International Inc. (Canada) – – divisions of the Far East Global Group Limited and ranking among the largest curtain wall, window wall and recladding companies in North America and the world – – announced today the appointment of two new executives as the company continues its development and expansion in North America – – a new Canadian President and a new Director of Operations.

According to Elliot Kracko, Gamma Chairman, “To help manage our expansion and momentum, I am absolutely delighted to announce the appointment of James G. Mitchell as President of Gamma Canadian Operations. Jim will be headquartered in Toronto and report to me.” Jim Mitchell succeeds Gamma’s Louis Fortin, who will now lead engineering and production for Gamma in Canada.

Jim Mitchell is a respected senior executive with over 30 years leadership experience in international markets, Canada and North America in the specialty construction, curtain wall, window wall and recladding industries. Combining experience in leading corporate development, sales and manufacturing, Mitchell previously was Executive Vice President of Oldcastle Building Envelope, Executive Vice President/Owner of Anatamex International (which was purchased by Old Castle) and Director of Sales and Marketing Canada for the Kawneer Aluminum Building Products Division of Alcoa.

“I could not be happier to be with Gamma as it continues to build on its record of ‘Performance Assured’ for clients in North America and now around the world. With this record and with Gamma’s global flexibility in fabrication options and its world-class cost-competitiveness, I am eager to help Gamma extend its leadership,” notes Jim Mitchell.

Gamma also is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark I. Ospala as Director of Operations, headquartered in Gamma’s office in New York City, according to Kracko.

“Mark brings more than 33 years of U.S. and international construction and program/project management experience, having managed the lifecycle of projects from the conceptual stage, design management, construction and closeout. Mark has helped manage the construction of noted projects in both the private and public sectors – – including for the last three years the World Trade Center Project in New York City and previously such projects as Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport, Ritz-Carlton Hotel in New York and Tiffany’s Customer Fullfillment Center in New Jersey, to name a few,” says Kracko.

“It’s a professional pleasure to be working with Gamma, an industry leader. It is exciting to be a member of the team as we expand in North America across the U.S. and Canada,” states Ospala.

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DIY Becomes More Popular

Continued economic difficulties have placed severe constraints on the budget of the average UK family. Today, most families look for ways to reduce their monthly expenses.

In addition to cutting out luxuries – such as satellite TV and high speed internet connection – many families are also looking for ways to reduce the cost of maintaining their homes. Homeowners can no longer afford the inflated charges levied by tradesmen. They have therefore resorted to DIY methods in order to repair small problems around their homes.

Until now, people have been hesitant to resort to DIY methods because they were regarded as too difficult. The current economic climate has left many families with no choice but to try their hand at DIY.

The internet, YouTube in particular, has become a popular reference guide for people interested in DIY. It is has become easy to find step-by-step instructions on how to repair almost any problem in the home.

The technological advancement of tools has also made it easier for the average person to build or repair household items. Older power tools were difficult to control, but this has changed. Today’s tools have versatile, user-friendly designs, suitable for any amateur.

In addition, DIY has also become easier because of multipurpose tools, which can complete a host of tasks. A modern Bosch power tool can often fulfil a variety of functions, making it unnecessary to invest in many new tools. The development of tool technology has resulted in affordable tools, which enable more people to attempt DIY projects.

DIY has become popular because it is easier and more affordable than it has ever been. Technological advancements and the internet have combined to make it possible for any person to complete a DIY project. Today, you no longer need to pay the exorbitant fees charged by a tradesman, because you have the option to do it yourself.

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Copper Electric, Ohio & Kentucky’s Premium Electrical Contractor, Celebrate 65 Years in Business

It all started 65 years ago, with one employee and a few clients. Now, over six decades later, Cincinnati-based Cooper Electric enjoys a healthy business, with service vans spanning two States.

The company are now seen as one of the country’s top service-based electrical contractors for the residential, commercial and industrial sectors – including their flagship Thermographic inspection service.

They still pride themselves on their core values – quality, value and service. Strict standards are maintained, including the answers on their phones twenty four hours a day, and a requirement for each of their experienced on-site staff to have completed a minimum 4-year apprentice program. So, if your Thermographer requires inspection, you can guarantee it will be attended to promptly.

As the company’s management team explain, the key to their success has been the value they base on every one of their clients:

“Using the highest ethical standards, we promise to provide the best electrical solutions for our customers through QUALITY, VALUE, and SERVICE. We strive to implement a long term relationship with our customers, based on safety, prompt service, and anticipating our customer’s needs. To guarantee our QUALITY, we will continually invest in training and education for our work force, and will never knowingly violate the standards of the National Electrical Code” they say.

The biggest pride-call for Cooper Electric is their client return rate, which currently sits at well over 70%.

“That in itself is a testament to the importance we place on everyone we serve. We’d like to thank everybody for a wonderful first 65 years in business, as we excitedly look forward to 65 more”.

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In Difficult Construction Market, Gamma Continues North American Momentum With Five New Curtain Wall Wins

Gamma U.S.A., Inc. and Gamma Windows and Walls International Inc. (Canada) – – divisions of the Far East Global Group Limited and ranking among the three largest curtain wall, window wall and recladding companies in North America and the world – – has added five new private and public sector curtain wall projects totaling more than $30 million in construction costs and more than 530,000 square feet in three Canadian cities. Two projects are in Gatineau, the fourth largest city in Quebec Province and immediately across the Ottawa River from Ottawa City; two are in Montreal; and one is in Toronto.

According to Elliot Kracko, Gamma Chairman, “We are delighted to be selected as the curtain wall contractor for these projects which represent prestigious names. In Montreal, the jobs are being constructed for:

•  the 40 storey Marriott Courtyard Hotel and condo residences for Canvar Construction of Montreal (Brian Elsden Architects – Le Groupe Architex, also of Montreal).

•  the 12 storey Ritz Carlton condo residences for Pomerleau Construction of Montreal (Provencher Roy + Associes Architects, also of Montreal).

In Ottawa/Gatineau, the jobs are for:

•  two different office buildings for the Government of Canada, one 13 storeys and one 16 storeys, both for Broccolini Construction of Montreal (DCYSA Architects and Design – – Desmarais, Cousineau,Yaghijian, St Jean & Associates of Montreal).

And in Toronto, the project consists of:

•  a low rise, prestigious headquarters office on behalf of the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario for Bird Construction of Toronto (KPMB – – Kuwabara, Payne, McKenna, Blumberg Architects, also of Toronto.)

For all the projects, Gamma is designing, fabricating and installing unitized curtain walls, fenestration, aluminum paneling and entrances, with the addition of skylights for the Elementary Teachers Federation Building in Toronto,” Kracko explains. He cites the ability to manage projects with complexities as a key reason why Gamma was awarded these contracts.

“Gamma is known for ‘Performance Assured,’” explains Kracko. “For clients, this means three key things: the highest level of client responsiveness and certainty that the complexities of a project will be anticipated and addressed; that the job will be ‘done right’ in terms of quality, scheduling and budget; and the highest level of predictability for a smooth construction journey with minimal impacts to performance.”

New Senior Executives
“To help manage our expansion and momentum, I am absolutely delighted to announce the appointment of James G. Mitchell as President of Gamma’s Canadian Operations. Jim will be headquartered in Toronto and report to me.” Jim Mitchell succeeds Gamma’s Louis Fortin, who will now lead engineering and production for Gamma in Canada.

Jim Mitchell is a respected senior executive with over 30 years leadership experience in international markets, Canada and North America in the specialty construction, curtain wall, window wall and recladding industries. Combining experience in leading corporate development, sales and manufacturing, Mitchell previously was Executive Vice President of Oldcastle Building Envelope, Executive Vice President/Owner of Anatamex International (which was purchased by Old Castle) and Director of Sales and Marketing Canada for the Kawneer Aluminum Building Products Division of Alcoa.

“I could not be happier to be with Gamma as it continues to build on its record of ‘Performance Assured’ for clients in North America and now around the world. With this record and with Gamma’s global flexibility in fabrication options and its world-class cost-competitiveness, I am eager to help Gamma extend its leadership,” notes Jim Mitchell.

Gamma also is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark I. Ospala as Director of Operations, headquartered in Gamma’s office in New York City, according to Kracko.

“Mark brings more than 33 years of U.S. and international construction and program/project management experience, having managed the lifecycle of projects from the conceptual stage, design management, construction and closeout. Mark has helped manage the construction of noted projects in both the private and public sectors – – including for the last three years the World Trade Center Project in New York City andpreviously such projects as Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport, Ritz-Carlton Hotel in New York and Tiffany’s Customer Fullfillment Center in New Jersey, to name a few,” says Kracko.

“It’s a professional pleasure to be working with Gamma, an industry leader. It is exciting to be a member of the team as we expand in North America across the U.S. and Canada,” states Ospala.

Via EPR Network
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Rapid Restoration Launches New Website For Easier Navigation Of Restoration And Remediation Services Information

Rapid Restoration announces the launch of their new website, rapidrestorationmn.com, and the new features that it offers its customers. The website is easier to navigate and allows the user to choose the area of interest from the menu at the top. Some of the new areas include:

  • FAQs : Provides information on the most commonly asked questions, and gives tips about what to do in the event of a specific emergency like water flooding your basement, or after a fire.
  • Testimonials : Offers case studies on what other people have experienced
  • Certifications : Lists the certifications that Rapid Restoration has
  • Services offered for water damage restoration, mold remediation, smoke and fire damage repair, storm damage, and biohazard cleanup, which includes crime scene and meth lab decontamination.

Rapid Restoration also includes their 24-hr emergency line, so victims of disasters and emergencies can reach them at any time of the day or night for immediate service.

About Rapid Restoration
Rapid Restoration offers complete emergency services and restoration of both building and contents for water damage, fire, biohazard, and storm disasters to residents and businesses around the Twin Cities metro area. Their commitment is to provide property owners with dependable services using the latest in technology and equipment to help them get through any disaster, 24-hours a day.

Via EPR Network
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Let Tool-Net Warm You Up

Winter has well and truly arrived. As chilly Brits up and down the country look set to spend the next few months up to our eyeballs in snow, rain and cold weather, Tool-Net offers up a solution with a fantastic range of heaters.

It’s no fun working in cold conditions – productivity levels drop and it’s certainly no good for your health. This year, why not pick up a heater to help you through those chilly winter months? With the aide of a heater your workshop, factory, garage, office or home will be transformed into a much nicer place to work. If you’ve suffered with these problems in the past, then you should waste no time in getting in touch with Tool-Net as soon as possible.

The catalogue contains many different types of heater – from affordable budget options through to more high-end, professional models. There are many different choices and Tool-Net looks to offer something for everybody. With offers and discounts on some of the world’s leading brands and manufacturers, it is easy to see why customers keep flocking back to Tool-Net as the cold sets in.

There’s lots of choice in the Tool-Net store, with many different models and brands on offer. It’s worth doing a bit of research to make sure you purchase the perfect heater for your needs, so why not take a look at the different styles in stock such as: Butane and Propane, Ceramic, Diesel and Paraffin, Electric, Infra-Red and Halogen, and Oil.

Tool-Net also offers its customers lots of other products with both power and hand tools, DIY accessories, garden equipment and much more. It’s a great place to stock up on essentials for your business, build up your reputation as a handyman and find those perfect presents for friends and loved ones. The website also offers up-to-date industry news and a blog featuring all the latest products and offers.

So whether you’re looking to buy site lighting, a Bosch drill, an outdoor heater, some new gardening equipment or anything else tool-related, chances are you’ll find it at www.tool-net.co.uk. The best news is, everything is competitively priced too, with new offers and deals becoming available all the time.

Via EPR Network
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Tool-Net Urges Power Tool Users To Be Safe

Nearly every home in the country has an electric drill but today the power tool experts, Tool-Net, suggested that very few users are aware of basic safety precautions that should always be taken when using their drill. Those who do not follow these precautions run the risk of having an accident that could hurt them or damage their drill.

Tool-Net highlighted the risk that loose clothing, jewellery or long untied back hair can pose. Any of these can easily be snagged in the drill as it rotates. Whilst these should be avoided safety goggles should be worn as these help prevent damage to your eyes caused by filings or shavings that are created by drilling. Whilst the heat of a drill bit can burn hands those who choose to wear gloves should make sure they are tight fitting.

The main area of risk when drilling is that caused by the drill slipping. Tool-Net outlined five simple steps that will greatly reduce this risk. First is to use a centre punch to start your drilling and to apply even pressure throughout. Second is to secure the material you are drilling in a vice. Third is to use a drill frame if you are drilling harder materials such as metal. Fourth is to make a pilot hole if you are drilling a screw into wood. The fifth rule is to always double check that the drill bit you have selected is sitting correctly and is held tightly by the chuck.

Both corded and cordless drills have specific rules that Tool-Net urged users to follows. A common way that corded drills are damaged is through careless treatment of the electrical cord which can be damaged if strained through being tripped over, used to pull a plug out of a socket or used to carry the drill itself. Cordless drills can easily be damaged if the incorrect charger is used to charge the drill or if it is charged in temperatures beyond those recommended by the manufacturer.

A Tool-Net spokesperson commented that “drills are an essential power tool and following these simple rules will help users avoid the risk of accident, injury or damage to their drill”.

Via EPR Network
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Tool Company Helps Build Better Environment

Businesses generate approximately one quarter of all waste in England, according to the Department of Farming and Rural Affairs. To help reduce this figure, Tool-NET has introduced a company-wide environmental policy that targets any inefficient use of resources.

A spokesman from the company said that it is “committed to treating the environment with consideration and respect, particularly in the way it affects our staff, our customers and the local communities in which we operate.”

The most sustainable of waste management techniques is to avoid the creation of waste in the first place. With this in mind, the company does not to buy in materials for packaging its products ready for shipping, choosing instead to re-use materials from deliveries made to it.

Staff are encouraged to re-use paper whenever possible. Used paper is saved and collected by contractors for recycling, as is a variety of other unavoidable waste. Waste bins are collected for controlled disposal as required by the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

The company invites its customers to return old batteries. These are then sent out to its manufacturing suppliers for safe and environmentally friendly disposal. Tool-NET has a policy to minimize the disposal of waste electrical and electronic equipment as unsorted municipal waste and to achieve a high collection of WEE for treatment, recovery and environmentally sound disposal.

Via EPR Network
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