Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Decking Material: Wood/ Composite/ PVC?

  Decking Material Options:

As spring time approaches and if you are considering a deck project, now is the time to plan.  It’s the perfect addition to any home. However, if you’re not sure what material to build this new deck out of, this article will help you decide the perfect option for your exterior needs, with frequently asked questions about the ins-and-outs of decking materials.
What kind of wood is best suitable for a deck?
A wood deck generally needs minimal maintenance. Depending on which kind of stain you apply, most decks only need re-staining every other year. The darker the stain, the longer time required in between staining. A pressure-washer, cleaner, or brightener is recommended if the wood has grayed. All in all, the time between re-staining depends on the type of stain, how dark the stain is, and how exposed your deck is to harmful elements or weather.
Are there any alternatives to wood decking?
Yes, there are. The two main alternatives out there are composite decking and PVC decking.
Composite vs. PVC, what’s the difference?
Composite decking and PVC decking are very different. Composite decking is made from plastic and wood fibers blended together. PVC is made 100% from plastic. Both need very minimal maintenance, only an occasional sweeping or wash with the hose. PVC is more resistant to scratching than composite decking because of its dense surface. PVC is also lighter than other types of decking, making it easier to install. It can often weight 30% to 40% less than composite decking.
What are the advantages of composite decking?
The biggest reason composite decking is so popular is because it has the look and feel of wood without all the hassle. You don’t have to stain or maintain it or worry about termite damage. Also, composite decking is made from recycled materials, which is not only good for you, but also good for the environment. And if for some reason it would be become damaged, most companies offer warranties to replace it. Composite decking comes in many colors, with any kind of railing to match, making your dream deck as easy and beautiful as possibility.
What are the advantages of PVC decking?
Like composite decking, PVC looks like wood without the hassle. It is more stain resistant than other kinds of decking, making it literally the easiest to maintain. It won’t warp, splint or rot. After the easy installation you won’t have to worry about your deck again. PVC is also more scratch resistant, and doesn’t absorb stains. PVC has built in UV protection, which will protect it from sun damage and ensure long lasting color.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Keeping Indoor Humidity just right

Effects of Indoor Humidity
Indoor humidity can affect your health and your home. Below are some of the possible effects.
Too Dry 

  • Damage to wood floors, furniture, musical instruments
  • Static electricity; electronic equipment damage
  • Increased dust
  • Respiratory, throat and skin irritations

Too Wet 

  • Termites, cockroaches and other insects
  • Condensation and stains on walls, ceilings and windows
  • Flaking paint and peeling wallpaper
  • Mold, mildew, dust mite growth; allergic reactions

Ice Damming... What to look for/ How to prevent.

http://bct.eco.umass.edu/publications/by-title/preventing-ice-dams/

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Q&RHILLC to attend JLC LIVE Residential Construction Show


About JLC LIVE

SHOW DESCRIPTIONSince 1995, the JLC LIVE Residential Construction Show has brought editorial content to life from The Journal of Light Construction magazine on an exhibit hall floor.  From the first show in Cambridge, Massachusetts, JLC LIVE has become a must-attend event for residential construction professionals. The unique combination of hands-on education in conjunction with manufacturer exhibits is what differentiates JLC LIVE from any other trade show in the industry.  In addition to all the education found in the exhibit hall JLC LIVE also offers a top-notch educational conference program.

LIVE EXHIBIT HALL EVENTS In addition to the exhibits, attendees will also find many educational opportunities on the show floor. The LIVE events are taught by some of the top experts in their fields including Gary Katz, Michael Byrne, Mike Sloggatt and Myron Ferguson. In addition to working with JLC LIVE our building specialists run very successful businesses as well as write for The Journal of Light Construction and other publications. LIVE events include building clinics, a design software workshop, decks and rails under construction as well as exhibitor demonstrations.

CONFERENCE DESCRIPTIONJLC LIVE New England offers a four-day, educational conference program featuring over 50 unique sessions covering a full range of topics, from business to construction techniques, in a classroom style setting.  Conference instructors are industry leaders and experienced both in the field and in the classroom.  They offer useful and practical information that can be implemented immediately on return to the office/field from the show. 

WHO ATTENDSJLC LIVE New England attracts a variety of residential construction professionals from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, New Jersey, Maine and Pennsylvania. 

WHO EXHIBITS
Exhibitors include manufacturers and regional distributors encompassing all aspects of residential construction. Due to the interactive aspect of JLC LIVE, exhibitors not only sell their products on the show floor but demonstrate them as well.

ADMISSION AND REGISTRATIONJLC LIVE is a trade only event and only professionals from the industry will be allowed to attend.

MAGAZINE PARTNERS
The Journal of Light Construction, Remodeling and Tools of the Trade.