After years of trimming jobs in the wake of the Great Recession, contractors and subcontractors say the pendulum has swung the other way, and now they are looking to hire skilled workers who are no longer available in the job market.
“I said this two years ago, if we have a full-speed recovery in the construction industry, we will not have the available workers to fill the jobs,” said Henry Goudreau, CEO & Founder of HG & Associates, Inc., and http://www.contractorcoaching.com. “The only way to correct this is by a grassroots effort by contractors in offering training, or convincing high school candidates to take construction training courses. It is in our best interest to start working on this now rather than later.”
To make up the shortfall, builders are training workers themselves, recruiting from outside the area and working with local technical schools on a slate of new training programs expected to begin in the fall.
Goudreau offers a report for contractors on how to increase sales and drive more money to their bottom-line. It is free for contractors by going to http://tinyurl.com/me78v37.
Henry Goudreau is known as the most sought-after business-building coach, speaker, and author for contractors. He is famous for turning around the problem plagued construction business, building profits, freeing up the owner’s time, and streamlining processes that build success, brand, and loyalty.
He offers business-building advice to contractors at his web site, and works with owners mastering and implementing his proven business model. This virtual road map for contractors helps them to build powerful niches and a true understanding of what it takes to be profitable.
Anyone who watches the job market closely knows that the construction sector has been weak in this recovery, and is just starting to show an increase in numbers of employment. Unfortunately, there is another problem rearing its ugly head.
“Contractors have suffered deeply and carried the brunt of this recession of the last six years. In February, employment in construction changed little, just adding less than 15,000 jobs,” said business-building coach to contractors, Henry Goudreau. “However, this is merely the tip of the iceberg. There are two immense hurdles to overcome for contractors, other than finding and employing skilled craftsman,” says Goudreau. “The second killer is financing,” he warns.
While the Federal Reserve and U.S. Treasury rescued major banks amid the 2008 financial crisis to avert major financial chaos, the bailout didn’t help the small lenders. “Their disappearance, along with the lack of lending by the major banks, has left the contractor hanging out to dry.” explained Goudreau.
“There a two huge voids that contractors must find a way to fill,” said Goudreau. “Filling a demand for skilled craftsmen, and finding start-up funding. Both are going to hit the contractor on the side of the head, especially, if the economy picks up speed and momentum, and together, they will stifle any chance for the industry to get back on the right track out of this recession. With that said, contractors have to get their financial house in order so they can fund their work, and find skilled craftsmen. I can help them get a better handle on their business and build their financial ability, but I believe the labor level will have to be addressed at the local school or vocational tech level since so many have left the industry for greener pastures or retirement.”
Henry Goudreau is known as the most sought-after business-building coach, speaker, and author for contractors. He is famous for turning around problem plagued construction businesses, building profits, freeing up the owner’s time, and streamlining processes that build success, brand, and loyalty.
He offers tons of advice to contractors at his web site, and works with owners mastering and implementing his proven business model. This virtual road map for contractors helps them to build powerful niches and a true understanding of what it takes to be profitable.
Customers of double glazing and replacement window and door companies are being urged to look out for a regulation scheme which is aimed at bringing more peace of mind to homeowners and buyers.
LocalQuoter, a company which puts customers in touch with reputable local tradespeople who are all specialists in a particular sector in the home improvement field and Cheap Double Glazing Quotes, believes that the Certass (Certification and Self Assessment) scheme offers valuable guarantees covering the quality of manufacture and installation of new windows and doors.
It is designed to ensure that all work complies with building regulations, which means that homeowners will be able to produce a certificate which will satisfy the conditions required under Home Improvement Pack (HIPs) regulations should they wish to sell on their home after completion of the work.
Glazing companies working under Certass also sign up to an insurance scheme, which assures customers that, should their installer go out of business, any repairs required under guarantee will be carried out by another Certass member.
LocalQuoter believes that this is a valuable safeguard for homeowners, and will prove especially useful when they want to sell their home, as the information has to be included in the Home Information Pack offered to prospective buyers.
Approval by Certass Glazing will allow member contractors to self-certify work, which means Certass Glazing will be in a position to issue Building Regulation Completion Certificates to homeowners.
Every prospective member of CERTASS glazing will first have to be vetted by the scheme’s officials, who can also carry out random inspections of their members’ work to ensure that they are complying with regulations.
Certass Glazing members will have to apply to rejoin the scheme every year runs from the date of initial approval, so each contractor’s annual period will be unique.
The Certass scheme runs alongside the similar accreditation process operated by FENSA, which in turn covers 9,000 registered window and door manufacturers and installers.
“At LocalQuoter, we offer our customers the double reassurance that companies we recommend meet the requirements laid down by both CERTASS and FENSA,†said Les Yates of LocalQuoter.
In the past two years, Acoustical Solutions, Inc. has teamed up with Jason Cameron and Tony ‘The Goose’ Siragusa of the hit DIY Network television show Man Caves to transform ordinary spaces into a masculine refuges – in the most recent project, Acoustical Solutions, Inc. worked to transform a storage basement into a recording studio for Charm City Cakes’ Chef Duff Goldman.
During the two-day renovation, Acoustical Solutions, Inc. installed Sonex® acoustical foam into the 14’ by 25’ storage basement with the help of hosts Jason Cameron and Tony Siragusa.
Goldman had been using the storage basement as a rehearsal space for his band, “Soihadto,†but said, “We have big amps, and we’re a loud band. When we’re playing, my staff has to pretty much leave.†Show producers called on Acoustical Solutions, Inc. to design a solution that would allow the Food Network host’s band to practice without disrupting the staff in the bakery, which is located directly above the rehearsal area.
Going into the two-day project, Acoustical Solutions, Inc. Sales Manager, David Ingersoll said, “we really have our work cut out for us. There are a lot of different contractors all working in the basement at the same time and the two day deadline will be approaching before any of us know it.†Ingersoll continued to say,“that there was plenty of recording and application equipment in the space.†When the project was completed, Ingersoll mentioned that “…with the equipment paired with Sonex® acoustical foam and a few big screen TVs, the space had become so nice [he] didn’t want to leave.â€
The featured episode is scheduled to air on the DIY Network on October 19th, at 8:30pm ET and will run nightly until October 23.
For more information Sonex® acoustical foam, please contact Acoustical Solutions, Inc. by calling 1-800-782-5742 or by visiting www.AcousticalSolutions.com.
Leading recruiter, Hays Civil & Structural has reported that professionals with previous railways, highways bridges, transport planning and drainage experience are highly sought after in the current market.
Due to the upgrading of the railways infrastructure demand has been created for rail engineers to work on a variety of projects, including station design, resignalling, refurbishment and maintenance schemes.
“Rail, signal, civil and electrification engineers are all prized skills and roles for engineers exist at both intermediate and senior level. There are opportunities for qualified individuals, particularly within design, planning and pre-contract commercial management, to work on major projects such as Crossrail,” said Sean Fitzgerald, senior consultant at Hays Civil & Structural.
There has also been a steady requirement for infrastructure engineering experience, particularly those individuals with a strong design and maintenance background. Highways design, road and junction design and street lighting experience are all sought after skills. A good all round knowledge of different projects, Highways Agency and local authority experience is also a definite plus.
“Candidates need to be flexible and keep an open mind regarding rates, location, projects and employers,” noted Katherine Whipps, manager at Hays Civil & Structural.
The assessment, inspection and maintenance of bridge structures has also created opportunities for qualified structural bridge engineers and bridge inspectors to work on the UK’s canals and estuaries.
Whipps added: “Knowledge of bridge design software and the BS5400 code of practice are pre-requisites for these roles.”
Other resilient areas are transport planning and modelling, geotechnical, water and environment.
“Employers are looking for technical expertise in PDS, MX, Micro Drainage, traffic and transport modelling software, such as Arcady, Picady, Oscady and Saturn,” continues Ben Haigh, manager at Hays Civil & Structural. Demand for senior business development managers has also remained steady: “Organisations are looking for individuals with commercial skills who can generate business, which is so crucial during a downturn.”
The current market situation in which jobseekers are competing for fewer jobs means that more care must be afforded to the job application process. Careful preparation is needed for CVs and interviews for jobseekers to get noticed by employers and stand a better chance of securing a role. However, a recent survey by Hays found that almost half (43%) had not witnessed any improvement in the quality of applications.
Although recruitment activity for engineering jobs has slowed, employers are still keen to hire specialist skills and experience, particularly for rail, highways, bridges, drainage, environmental and transport engineers. While the majority of roles require previous public sector experience and strong technical skills, organisations are also looking for individuals with first-class communication and commercial skills.
*Â Known for professionalism, reliability, and affordability
*Â Accredited A+ roofing contractor with the Better Business Bureau
*Â Certified “Elite Select” Austin roofing contractor by CertainTeed Roofing
*Â Excellent long term warranties on roofing materials and installation
*Â Uses energy efficient materials whenever possible
*Â Roofing specialists along with windows, patio covers, carports, screened rooms, siding and installation
Heritage Home Services is a professional roofing contractor that will provide homeowners, business owners, and property managers with objective information about the type of roofing materials available, their benefits and costs, and other items to consider when completing roof replacement or roof repair in Austin,TX or nearby cities.
Heritage Home Services is experienced with both commercial roofing and residential roofing, so they can help with roof repair or roof replacement on your home or commercial property.
Call Heritage Home Services at (512)410-2652 for a professional estimate on a new roof or roof repair in Austin, TX, today.
Scheidler Roofing proudly announces the opening of its new office in El Paso Texas with the current storm conditions and the growing need for large scale roofing contractors, we have taken the step to give the community a better more reliable option than it currently has at this time. With the deductible program that waives the roof deductible Scheidler Roofing has taken the Texas market by storm, a Houston based company with local sales of 9.62 million in 2008 and projected state wide sales of over 20 million for 2009.
The owner Lee Scheidler says that aggressive and fresh advertising along with unsurpassed customer service are the 2 key factors in their growth, He quotes we spend over 30 hours of training time on sales staff before they are put in the field our competitors usually spend 1 to 4 hours, (lee) they represent me and my company I want them to be at their best every staff member should know every answer to our customers questions. Come visit us at WWW.FREEROOFTEXAS.COM and see the difference.
J.D. Roy Excavating, Inc., a leading site excavation contractor based in Manassas, VA, is pleased to announce that the company is celebrating its tenth year in business. When founded in 1999, J.D. Roy Excavating owned one backhoe and dump truck. The company now owns an extensive fleet of heavy equipment, performing turnkey residential, commercial and municipal site development work throughout Northern and Central Virginia with single projects ranging in value from $100K to over $3M.
Founder and president, Joe Roy is optimistic about the future and remains focused and active in the operations of the company. “We have been fortunate to establish critical relationships within the construction industryâ€, Joe Roy commented. “The key to our success has been the quality workforce we employ, as well as having a clear understanding of our capabilities as a contractor to provide the highest quality product for our clients. We are excited about the future and feel confident that we have successfully positioned ourselves as an organization to foster the future growth of J.D. Roy Excavatingâ€, Joe Roy mentioned when discussing the ten year corporate milestone.
About J.D. Roy Excavating, Inc.
J.D. Roy Excavating is a Class A Virginia Contractor and performs all phases of site development work, including but not limited to, earthwork, site utilities, demolition, erosion control, paving, concrete flatwork as well as rock drilling and blasting. The company maintains a centrally located office and shop in Manassas, VA. J.D. Roy Excavating is a member of the Associated Builders and Contractors Virginia Chapter.
Hail storms and tough economic times in 2009 have left many many with roof damage and insurance deductibles they can’t afford contributing to more economic hardships. Integrity Roofing and Exteriors has announced they will be providing insurance deductible assistance to homeowners in El Paso and help them sift through complicated insurance process.
“Most homeowners do not realize they have hail damage. Why? It is impossible to see damage from the ground,†states Brian James. “Homeowners need a trained professional who knows the difference between nail pops, blistering and hail damage. Just because your car didn’t get dinged up doesn’t mean the integrity of your roof hasn’t been compromised. The solution is to have a trained professional examine your roof up close. And since our company offers a no obligation, free, 35 point inspection, homeowners have nothing to lose – with one exception. If homeowners wait and do not file a claim in time, they may have to pay out of pocket.â€
In addition to offering homeowners great workmanship and great customer service, Integrity has a team of insurance claim specialists that assist homeowners in understanding and working through the often complex insurance claims process.
I want to sing the praises of a local roofing company, Integrity Roofing and Exteriors. They completed my new roof earlier this year. They met with my insurance adjuster and myself, and made me feel very comfortable with the entire process. They kept me up-to-date with my project, and always returned my calls. Not only was the work that they provided exceptional, but I also loved the warranty that I received at no additional charge. They workers were very clean and professional, and my service was wonderful. I would recommend this company to anyone who needs roof work done.
Premier Restoration Firm Tracks Feedback and is Rewarded with Customers Praising Everything from Friendly Crews, Prompt Service, to Help with Adjusters
Rhema Roofing and Exteriors a 5 star residential insurance restoration contractor is proud to announce it has been praised by customers for its service described as efficient, incredible, excellent and very professional.
Almost a year ago we began our 5 star customer care program to provide an unprecedented level of customer service which is managed by a team of top notch project managers. We have always recruited associates with the highest level of character and integrity to insure our customers have a great experience with Rhema and become a customer for life. Were happy to report an overwhelming approval from our customers.
Rhema Roofing and Exteriors has 3 locations in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Stillwater and has emerged as a customer service leader in the industry.
Some customer comments include:
“The fact that you handled all of the paperwork with both my insurance and mortgage company was awesome! That was one less headache for me!†- Martha G
“They left my property so clean; it looks nicer than when they started!â€Â - Lynn L
“I can’t believe how fast you guys got my roof done!†- Hikmet O
My roof was started and finished while I was doing business in Europe; definitely easy to work with.†- Ken E
It is now ten months since the introduction of the new UK planning regulations that came in to effect on the 1 st October 2008 and here, ConservatoryLand, a major manufacturer and supplier of DIYÂ conservatories report on the effects that they have had on the conservatory industry since then.
David Bingham, director of ConservatoryLand says “I have heard reports from certain large conservatory roof manufacturers that the volume of their roof orders have increased but their sales revenue has actually decreased in 2009 compared to that of 2008.
This is thought to have been caused partly due to the new planning permission regulations which are causing consumers to opt for smaller conservatories with a view to keeping within the new size criteria for which you do not now require planning permission approval.â€
The size criteria elements within the new planning regulations that could be affecting this are:
• No extension to be higher than the highest part of the roof
• Maximum depth of a single-storey rear extension of three metres for an attached house and four metres for a detached house
• Maximum height of a single-storey rear extension of four metres
• Maximum depth of a rear extension of more than one storey of three metres including ground floor
• Maximum eaves height of an extension within two metres of the boundary of three metres
• Maximum eaves and ridge height of extension no higher than existing house
• Side extensions to be single storey with maximum height of four metres and width no more than half that of the original house
• Roof pitch of extensions higher than one storey to match existing house
Taking the above criteria in to consideration, it is clear to see why some manufacturers of conservatories and conservatory roofs are thinking that consumers are being guided in to buying smaller conservatories and are blaming this for a smaller average order value.
David Bingham Managing Director of Conservatory Land has given an insight into the conservatory industry and the current trend he is seeing. With 20 years personal experience in the industry he has given some useful advice and tips for anyone looking to buy a conservatory.
Currently, one of the UK’s most popular and appealing home improvement projects for homeowners is adding conservatories to their homes. The choice is vast and if you are considering a sizable investment it is wise to start with the company itself. Choose a company that has satisfactorily supplied or installed conservatories for friends, family or someone else you know. The next step is to decide what type of conservatory you want, or more importantly, what type will best suit your property and keep within your budget.
Measure the space you have available and decide what size you would like and which style would look best. Choose a style and size that will provide you with a usable, furnishable living space whilst at the same time not looking out of place or out of proportion with your property. This step is the most important one so take your time as you will only get once chance to get it right. No one wants to end up with a conservatory that is too small to be of reasonable use or too large for the size and style of your home. David Bingham went on to say “I have heard so many times, customers saying that they wish they had purchased a larger conservatory so that there was more room to seat the whole family for dinner or for watching TV, so choose carefully, but don’t over do it, it needs to be just rightâ€.
Once you have decided on the size and style, be it an Edwardian, Victorian or a simple traditional lean-to conservatory, you need to decide on the actual design. There are three main designs to choose from, dwarf wall, full height glass to ground and full height bottom panels.
Then there are the doors. The most popular choice are French (double) doors but in some situations, sliding patio doors or bi fold doors and be more suitable for some conservatories depending of their location on your home and how you intend to use your conservatory. The company you choose will be able to give you further advice on design options and supply you with CAD drawings to help give you an idea of how the finished conservatory will look.
Colour is also very important. Modern PVCu profiles are available in many colours with the most common being white, mahogany, rosewood, golden (light) oak and more recently cream has been introduced. White PVCu is usually the cheapest option. It is a good idea to choose a colour that will best compliment the fabric of your property and your existing windows and doors.
The final step is to decide on glazing types, both for the frames and roof and you don’t necessarily need the exact same glazing type in the roof as the frames. Frame glazing for conservatories can take many different forms. The very basic frame glazing used in conservatories is clear toughened safety class, usually made up in double glazed sealed units.
However, you may want a higher insulating glass to help keep your conservatory warmer during the winter months such as Pilkington K Glass or a solar reflective glass to help keep it cooler in the summer such as Pilkington Activ Blue which is also self cleaning – or even a combination of both to help keep your conservatory more comfortable all year round. Your conservatory supplier will be able to give you advice and associated costs regarding this.
Then there’s the roof glazing which is very important. There are two basic materials, polycarbonate and glass.
You should decide how you would like your conservatory to look and consider your budget as glass roofs for conservatories are far more expensive and often require additional reinforcement of the frames and roof, further adding to the cost.
The main disadvantage with polycarbonate is the ‘drumming’ effect which can become very loud during heavy rain. Glass roofs can be a better option for conservatories as there is far less noise during rainfall.
David went onto say “I have tried to provide this advice with a view to helping anyone buying a conservatory, whether it is fully installed or a DIY conservatory to make sure that they get exactly what they want and need. When it comes to conservatories, especially DIY conservatories, getting it wrong can be a very expensive mistake and I like to think that ConservatoryLand is one company that can professionally advise on these issuesâ€.
ContractorsCompare.com, the comparison site established for the benefit of tradesmen, has undergone a major renovation in order to deliver a more user-friendly experience by increasing visitors’ ease of usage.
The first change visitors will notice is to the homepage of ContractorsCompare.com. This page has been redesigned to include key services in prominent places, guiding the majority of users to their desired destinations.
The bulk of the reconstruction has taken place with the site’s navigation. Pages are now more easily found and accessed, leading to a reduced search time for users. Other benefits from the refurbishment include a tradesmens news page with regular updates from the contractors’ world and an RSS feed to help readers stay up to date.
Mark Farrimond, director at ContractorsCompare.com, said: “We hope the new look of the site will enable tradesmen to get a greater understanding of the products and services available from ContractorsCompare.com, not only insurance but also employment law advice, health and safety advice and tax advice. Tradesmen can compare quotes for public and employers liability insurance from leading insurers; AXA, Fortis, Groupama and MMA with more insurers to be added to the panel later in the year.
“Tradesmen can also compare prices on tools and equipment from some of the UK’s largest online retailers.”
The site was originally launched in December 2008 but has since undergone redesigns to increase usability and add function to the site – such as additional products and improved services, like the enhanced tool finding service.
ContractorsCompare.com also includes services such as an online chat facility for users to get instant help and advice as well, and a renewal reminder that will notify members when any of their insurance policies are running out.
About ContractorsCompare.com
ContractorsCompare.com is owned by ContractorsCompare.com Ltd, a company established by the directors of Allied Insurance Services Ltd to deliver tradesmen’s insurance to customers via the internet.
Allied Insurance Services were formed in 2001 and have for many years specialised in providing insurance to tradesmen and contractors in the UK. They became the appointed insurance broker to the Federation of Window Cleaners and the Painting & Decorating Association due to this specialism and excellent customer service. Using this expertise and their strong relationships within the insurance market ContractorsCompare.com was born.
ContractorsCompare.com Ltd now acts as an appointed representative of Allied Insurance Services Ltd for the purposes of introducing non-life insurance business. The company also acts as an introducer of life and financial services business to Allied Financial Services Ltd.
In line with Optima Products’ corporate responsibility and environmental awareness policies, the innovative glass partitions company has come up with a new, eco-friendly way of getting vital information to its clients.
Optima Products is now using an ingenious and eco-friendly alternative to the heavy paper version of their Designer’s Guide.
The Designer’s Guide contains in-depth information on office partitioning and other architectural and construction issues spread out over 100 pages of A4. In previous years Optima Products printed in excess of 1000 copies of the Designer’s Guide for its glass partition customers and associates. To bring the production of this year’s Designer’s Guide in line with the glass partition company’s energy efficiency and waste minimisation policies, Optima Products will be providing this fantastic portfolio of information on a small and stylish USB storage device.
This new system will save thousands upon thousands of sheets of paper, not to mention large envelopes, as well as cutting down on the huge postage costs that come with sending out bulky paper packages. This, in turn, cuts down on the amount of fuel used for delivery of the Guides, reducing Optima Products’ overall carbon footprint.
Shaped to resemble a capsule pill, the new USB format Guide will help thousands of Optima Products clients by ‘taking the pain out of detailing.’ It includes:
• The full Designer’s Guide
• 3D interactive Explore-a-Product technical specifications
• Detailed CAD drawings (.dwg files) for designers and architects
• Optima’s Project Photo Galleries
• 3D animations of the Deflection head and Nebula joint solutions
• In-depth case studies of Optima’s latest projects
• Links to Optima’s highly popular Optiman game
The new USB format Designer’s Guide is the latest in a long line of ingenious ideas from the glass partitions specialist to curtail the environmental impact of Optima Products business activities.
Managing Director, Nigel Westray said, “Our products are installed in the offices of some of the most prestigious companies in the UK, companies who are totally committed to Environmental Management, and it is only right that we meet or exceed their standards of environmental best practiceâ€.
Optima Systems’ environmentally ethical practices recently earned the company IS014001 accreditation for its Environmental Management System and the glass partition company has also drawn up plans to make further emissions reductions across all sectors.
Paper copies of the Designer’s Guide will still be available this year by request; however Optima Products aims to faze them out entirely over the coming years.
To find out more about Optima’s eco friendly glass partition systems and services or to learn more about the Designer’s Guide, please visit: http://www.optimasystems.com.
Lynne Crowe, Regional Manager at Hays Construction, commented, “Although the length of contracts has become shorter on average, the demand for trades and labouring jobs has remained steady in some parts of the UK.”
Employers can afford to be more selective regarding the calibre of applicants they recruit and the specific requirements needed given the excess supply of experienced and quality site staff available in the marketplace. Flexibility is an important pre-requisite for employers, who are looking to hire individuals on a temporary basis for their labouring and trades jobs.
Currently the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) is a key requirement, particularly given the health and safety regulations that contractors need to abide by. Lynne Crowe stressed, “It does not matter if you are a fully qualified experienced tradesman or a first time general labourer, a CSCS card provides proof of competency. Employer requirements also include Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association (PASMA) passes in the building aluminium towers.”
The public sector continues to prove resilient and there are a number of long-term opportunities for tradesmen such as carpenters, painters, tilers, plasterers, bricklayers, painters, decorators and banksmen, particularly within the health and education sectors, which have benefited f r o m a significant injection in government investment. Examples include renovation programmes for hospitals and the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme, which continue to create opportunities for skilled operatives.
Although commercial new build activity is being scaled back in the private sector, there has still been ongoing refurbishment activity. “Companies may seek to re-evaluate a move to a brand new office building and instead look at redeveloping existing premises,” noted Lynne Crowe. “The high-end residential market has also created opportunities for those companies with strong cashflow who are able to pick up bargains and inject funds into upgrading properties, which they can then re-sell when property values increase.”
Jobseekers need to stand out and differentiate themselves f r o m their peers to have the best chance of securing employment in the current market. Whether seeking both permanent or temporary work, employers are looking for CVs with evidence of a solid work history, excellent ready references and for tradesmen, full tools specifications. But interpersonal skills are equally important, “A good attitude to work is a must and all jobseekers must be keen to impress, as every job interview is their platform to excel,” concluded Lynne Crowe.
Hays Construction is part of Hays plc, the leading global specialist recruitment group, specialising in construction jobs including construction manager jobs and quantity surveying jobs. It is market leader in the UK and Australia, and one of the market leaders in Continental Europe. The Group employs 8,294 staff operating f r o m 380 offices in 28 countries across 17 specialisms.
Optima Systems’ team of technical engineers have come up with two exciting new products to add to the Optima range.
The two new glass doors are designed to glide smoothly open, saving precious office space and creating a sophisticated and sleek office aesthetic.
The two new products, the Framed Sliding Door and the Pocket Sliding Door, are very different and can be used in conjunction with different Optima glazing systems.
Traditionally, sliding doors and acoustic performance do not go hand in hand, but Optima’s new Framed Sliding Door ensures that this design dilemma is a thing of the past.
The minimal aluminium frame of the Framed Sliding Door incorporates full length brush seals at the head and base and compressible seals on the vertical ‘door stop’ edge for an enhanced acoustic performance.
The door is operated by pull handles which run on Optima’s ever popular Kinetic dual trolley rolling system. The base detail incorporates a discreet anodised channel to fully control the door’s travel, thus eliminating the potential for leading edge drift and ensuring a light yet solid operating feel.
Optima’s Framed Sliding Door is the perfect way to form a space efficient office entrance within Optima’s 117 single glazed partition system, without compromising on acoustic performance.
Optima’s Pocket Sliding Door provides an attractive solution where minimal detailing, space efficiency and acoustic performance are important considerations.
The door was designed as an addition to our popular Revolution 97 double glazed mullion-free partition system. The 12mm glass leaf door is suspended from Optima’s highly popular and proven Kinetic operating system which enables the door to glide effortlessly into the double glazed screen.
The door is designed to be operated by pull handles, providing the benefit of upgrading to floor deployment lockable handles if necessary.
About Optima: Optima offers the highest quality service and innovative design to secure consumer satisfaction, ensuring that their extensive range of partitioning systems are able to meet customers’ exacting specifications, supported by technical expertise to achieve successful project completion.
Nail Jack Tools unveiled their first two nail pulling pliers – the Nail Jack® and Nail Hunter® at the 2009 National Hardware Show in Las Vegas this week and were informed that the Nail Jack has captured Popular Mechanics’ prestigious Editor’s Choice Award.
The publication does not accept submissions for their award, but instead chooses winners from thousands of products based on originality, ingenuity and design. The award recognized Nail Jack Tools for its innovative design in the Nail Jack nail puller – the first hand tool designed as a pliers like device to dig, grab and pull nails, staples and brads. Popular Mechanics called the Nail Jack nail puller a “fresh new hand tool” in a product category that “rarely sees true innovation.”
“We are honored to be recognized by this esteemed group of editors for the 2009 Editor’s Choice Award from Popular Mechanics,†says Nail Jack CEO Mike Foley. “The show has been a great opportunity to showcase our tools, and winning an award like this really confirms the need for a new line of tools designed specifically from the ground up to pull nails and fasteners without damaging costly wood products.â€
The patented and patent-pending designs of the Nail Jack and Nail Hunter fill a large gap in the retail market and construction industry. Designed like pliers, these unique tools do most of their work with “one handâ€, or can be struck with a hammer to dig out a nail, grab a headless brad or nail with their jaws while utilizing a built in fulcrum. The family of tools is specifically designed to pull nails, staples and fasteners with efficiency – saving time and money.
The Idaho-based company founded in 2006 unveiled the Nail Jack tool line at this year’s National Hardware Show. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.nailjack.com or call the company at 1-877-PULL-NAIL (or at +1-208-928-6426).
Integrity Roofing & Exteriors: In response to recent storm damage throughout Southern Ill. is offering free 35 point roof inspections and insurance deductible assistance.
Record catastrophic hail and wind storms strike southern Illinois in 2009 leaving many with roof damage that they aren’t even aware of. Integrity Roofing and Exteriors helps hundreds, not only rebuild, but sift through the complicated insurance process.
Integrity Roofing and Exteriors, the premier residential restoration firm in the Midwest, announced today that its Southern Illinois office will help home owners throughout the Southern Illinois area this year, not only rebuild, but understand and work through the often complex insurance claims process.
“Most homeowners do not realize they have hail damage. Why? It is impossible to see damage from the ground,†states Brian James. “Homeowners need a trained professional who knows the difference between nail pops, blistering and hail damage. Just because your car didn’t get dinged up doesn’t mean the integrity of your roof hasn’t been compromised. The solution is to have a trained professional examine your roof up close. And since our company offers a no obligation, free, 35 point inspection, homeowners have nothing to lose – with one exception. If homeowners wait and do not file a claim in time, they may have to pay out of pocket.â€
In addition to offering homeowners great workmanship and great customer service, Integrity has a team of insurance claim specialists that assist homeowners in understanding and working through the often complex insurance claims process.
I want to sing the praises of a local roofing company, Integrity Roofing and Exteriors. They completed my new roof earlier this year. They met with my insurance adjuster and myself, and made me feel very comfortable with the entire process. They kept me up-to-date with my project, and always returned my calls. Not only was the work that they provided exceptional, but I also loved the warranty that I received at no additional charge. They workers were very clean and professional, and my service was wonderful. I would recommend this company to anyone who needs roof work done.
About Integrity Roofing and ExteriorsÂ
Integrity Roofing and Exteriors is committed to the community it serves providing employment and resources for long-term cooperative growth. Their commitment to 5 star customer service is unprecedented in the construction industry. Call them anytime at: 888-879-5910.
On May16th, from 7pm to 9:30pm Harmony in the Garden, will be held at the St. Augustine Water and Stone Gallery. The event is hosted by businesses that offer top of the line products and services for homes and gardens. This evening offers discerning homeowners the chance to view ideas for their homes while in a luxurious setting with live music, wine, and cocktails, tastes of “Galanga†Fine Cuisine as well as door prizes from the Jacksonville area business hosts. Homeowners will also be able to enjoy renowned artists’ works displayed in a beautiful Zen garden. Collette Vale is reservations by phone at 904-808-8784. More information about the Water and Stone Gallery and their distinguished artists can be found at www.waterandstonegallery.com.
NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Jacksonville provides the latest in energy efficient LED lighting technology, custom lighting design, professional installation, and outdoor lighting repair. NiteLites outdoor lighting fixtures are weather resistant as they are made of copper and brass and are acid-etched for a durable design.
NiteLites is national outdoor lighting franchise and offers additional information about landscape and architectural lighting online at http://www.NiteLites.com. Throughout the U.S. there NiteLites outdoor lighting locations in over 40 cities including: NiteLites Outdoor Lights of Asheville, Greenville, SC 29601, 29602, 29603, 29605, 29607, 29609, 29611, 29615, 29616, and 29617. NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Atlanta 30305, 30319, 30327, Alpharetta 30004, 30005, 30022, 30305, 30319, Duluth, GA 30097, Marietta 30062, Roswell 30075, and Aiken 29801. NiteLites Architectural Lighting of Augusta, SC, Blythewood, SC 29016, Chapin 29036, Columbia 29290, Elgin 29045, Irmo 29063, Leesville 29070, Lexington 29072, and West Columbia 29169. NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Charleston 29401, 29403, 29407, 29412, 29414, 29419, 29492, Daniel Island 29445, Goose Creek 29445, Hanahan 29410, Isle of Palms 29451, Johns Island 29455, Kiawah Island 29455, Moncks Corner 29461, Mt. Pleasant 29464, North Charleston 29405, Sullivans Island 29482, Summerville 29483, 29485, Wadmalaw Island 29487, and Wando 29492. Arlington 60004, Bradenton 34209, Bernardsville 07924, Brentwood 37027, Bridgewater 08807, Branchburg 08876, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Boca Raton 33433, Bonita Springs 34135, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Central New Jersey 08857, Cape Coral 33914, Centerville 45458, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Charleston 29412, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Charlotte 28269, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Chicago 60604, Chicagoland 60004, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Cincinnati 45243, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Clearwater 33755, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Columbia 29212, NiteLites Landscape Lighting of Columbus 43230, Covington 41011, East Brunswick 08816, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Dayton 45423, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Delaware 19898, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Fort Myers 33908, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Fort Lauderdale 33326, Franklin 37064, Greenville 29601, Hilliard 43026 , NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Houston 77095, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Indianapolis 46032, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach 32240, Jupiter 33458, Katy 77450, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Lima 45805, Livingston 27391, Lynchburg 24083, Madison 53707, Maryland 20854, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Middle Tennessee 37075, Millburn 07041, Morristown 07962, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Mt. Pleasant 29464, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Myrtle Beach 29597, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Naples 34109, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Nashville 37221, Newport 41076, New Providence 07974, North Augusta 29841, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Northern Kentucky 41012, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Northern Virginia 22124, Novi 48377, Oxford 45056, Philadelphia 19118, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Roanoke 24018, Sanibel 33957, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Sarasota 34243, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Southeast Michigan 48380, Spartanburg 29304, Springboro 45066, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of St. Louis 63005, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of St. Petersburg 33715, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Toledo 43699, NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of Tampa 33647, Valrico 33594, Venice 34293, Wilmington 19808, Washington, DC 20510, Watchung 08089, West Caldwell 07006, West Orange 07052, Westerville 43081, and NiteLites Outdoor Lighting of West Palm Beach 33414.
David Bingham, Managing Director at Conservatory Land stated that “Besides fitting a conservatory, they are one of the best ways of adding value to the home, as well as making the garden a much more accessible and enjoyable area for the whole family,” and went on to say “In the last 12 months, bi-fold doors have become a must-have on many homes and we always recommend them to our customers who are fitting a conservatory.”
Sliding bi-fold doors have the advantage of providing full access to the garden or patio area, which means that on a warm summer’s day homeowners can literally open up their home to the sunshine, dramatically connecting the indoor and outdoor space. Bi-fold doors can replace an existing patio door in a house or form part of a new conservatory.
The bi-folds’ amazing flexibility is seen in the various fold options, which make it easy to adjust the doors, depending on how much fresh air you require. Opening up to the largest 6.5 metres wide, bi-fold doors are certain to create a beautifully practical living space and ensuring circulation of healthy fresh air throughout your home.
Conservatory Land uses the market leading Eurocell profile system to make the sliding bi-fold doors because it has the reputation as one of the best quality systems on the market. Conservatory Land also sources from Eurocell because it is a local company, based in Derbyshire that offers a full range of windows, conservatories and doors. Offering a full range means being able to provide customers a perfect colour between the windows, conservatory and bi-fold, which is a great way to create a real “wow factor”.
Homeowners that choose bi-fold doors from Conservatory Land have been immediately impressed by the practicality and stunning aesthetics of the product. Because every home is unique, bi-fold doors are available in a choice of sizes, colours and woodgrain finishes. This extensive range of styles means that bi-fold doors can be individually selected to complement both traditional and contemporary homes.
Exceeding the minimum requirement for construction, security, safety, weather-tightness and strength, bi-fold doors are a great way for families to enjoy their garden and patio areas – the wide open space they create makes it easy to both hear and see children in the garden. When fitted into a new conservatory, it provides a truly stunning addition to any home.
Conservatory Land offers a wide range of high performance glass to ensure that your new bi-fold door, conservatory or windows provide you with an efficient and easy to heat home.
Customers wishing to view its bi-fold door range, along with a wide selection of conservatories, will find a welcoming atmosphere in its new showroom on Old Mill Lane Industrial Estate, in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire.
Goudreau offers a report for contractors on how to increase sales and drive more money to their bottom-line. It is free for contractors by going to http://tinyurl.com/me78v37.
