SatSense Ltd, one of few satellite-derived ground movement data providers in Europe has developed an autonomous self-service based transactional portal for its users. SatShop allows users to log into a website and download InSAR ground movement data over their area of interest. InSAR, or Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar, is a
Lengthy stints of lockdown restrictions have caused many homebuyers to reevaluate what they want from their bricks and mortar investment. The conclusion? A bigger home, more outdoor space and a move away from the city. While this has been a trend that has intensified over the last year, the latest
Every industry is facing an uncertain few years. Changes to the way we live our lives are driving fundamental changes in our society. As is digital transformation. The wholesale uptake of digital technologies, robotics, automated systems and electronics is moving us further and further away from traditional modes of work.
If your building makes employees experience sick building syndrome (SBS), it’s time for you to take this matter seriously. SBS is a condition where people get sick because of the building’s condition. Many factors contribute to this, like poor indoor air quality and other subfactors that weren’t considered beforehand. Since
The construction industry has always been ranked as among the most dangerous sectors to work in. The combination of safety and health risks that involve heavy-duty equipment, vehicles, and manual tasks makes the industry notoriously dangerous. In fact, statistics from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) shows that 20%
Nottingham: Blocwork LLP, a 50:50 joint venture between Network Rail and Bloc Group to develop rail side sites nationally, has appointed GRAHAM as construction partner to build a PRS ‘build to rent’ development on Queens Road, Nottingham. The development is being funded by the FTSE250 property business, Grainger Plc, the
SEGRO is taking sustainability to a new level after securing a major pre-let at SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway with a leading online retailer, which will include double-deck parking for 200 electric vans. The customer has agreed a 15-year lease for a 150,000 sq ft unit on a 21-acre
Premier Forecourts and Construction, a specialist in forecourts and diverse construction projects, has completed works at a Motor Fuel Group (MFG) site at Crow Orchard in Wigan, providing MFG’s latest ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) 150kW chargers. Swansea-based Premier Forecourts and Construction was appointed by MFG as principal contractor to install
Technology will help Knight Frank RAM perform key management activities and improve tenant communications MRI Software, a global leader in real estate software solutions, announces that Knight Frank’s Residential Asset Management (RAM) department is now leveraging MRI’s widely used property management and accounting platform, MRI Qube PM – deepening the technology
Let’s face it. Clogging is a common issue in every home. As long as your house has a drainage system, you will experience some form of clogging at one time. Your sink will block. The toilet drain will clog, and the drainage flow will stop. These plumbing issues vary in
SatSense Ltd, one of few satellite-derived ground movement data providers in Europe has developed an autonomous self-service based transactional portal for its users. SatShop allows users to log into a website and download InSAR ground movement data over their area of interest. InSAR, or Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar, is a technique used in remote sensing. Satellite radar images are used to generate insight into surface deformation. SatSense Ltd. uses this data to help people understand historic and ongoing ground and structure movements, accurate down to millimetres. Traditionally, SatSense compile a detailed report with expert analysis to aid customers but now, select users will be able to select and download the data for themselves. The Leeds-based scale-up understands that time and accessibility are often key pain points for their userbase, who are often geotechnical engineers. The CEO, Matthew Bray has been quick to note that the traditional way of obtaining InSAR data can be laboured and unnecessarily time consuming. The self-service portal is their answer to this, and in doing so, they aim to integrate their solution more effectively into engineers’ workflow processes. The CEO Matthew Bray commented that “Our next generation solution is one that will continue to give value to our customers; the self-service portal, SatShop, is our way of helping to drive efficiency and reduce costs for geotechnical engineers. The easy to use, step-by-step process will only boost our rapidly increasing adoption – we look forward to continuing to develop our products with customers and maintain this upward trajectory.” This is a strong statement of intent from SatSense Ltd. as they move towards a frictionless transaction system, one that will be seen more and more in the coming years. The portal interface is set up to allow complete autonomy by allowing users to interact entirely with the digital process, and have data sent directly to them, in their preferred format, when they want it. SatSense Ltd. Have gone from strength to strength since receiving significant investment from local investment house Mercia Asset Management. Investment Manager at Mercia, William Schaffer issued a statement welcoming the move to an autonomous digital platform. “SatSense is a promising investment for the Northern Powerhouse investment Fund. In bringing their solution forward and offering a seamless user experience, they are commercialising and democratising an incredibly valuable data set in a truly unique way. We anticipate their efforts will deliver substantial value to their customers and markets.”
Lengthy stints of lockdown restrictions have caused many homebuyers to reevaluate what they want from their bricks and mortar investment. The conclusion? A bigger home, more outdoor space and a move away from the city. While this has been a trend that has intensified over the last year, the latest research from Warwick Estates has revealed that demand for apartment living remains strong in a number of the UK’s major cities. Warwick Estates analysed homebuyer demand based on the number of apartments and flats in each city that were already sold subject to contract (SSTC) or under offer, attributing a demand score based on this level of stock as a percentage of all flats listed for sale. So if 100 flats are listed and 50 are already SSTC or under offer, buyer demand in that particular city would sit at 50%. UK demand for flat living When looking at overall demand across the UK’s top 20 major cities, an average of 40% of all flats listed for sale have already been snapped up by buyers. However, in some major cities, the demand for flat living is far higher. Glasgow ranks as the flattest place in the UK property market at present, with buyer demand at 71%. Nearby Edinburgh is also a flat homebuyer hotspot, with 60% of all flat and apartments listed for sale already SSTC or under offer. Outside of Scotland, Bristol ranks top for flat demand in England at 55%, while Plymouth (53%), Bournemouth (47%), Portsmouth (45%), Leeds (42%), Southampton (42%), Nottingham (42%) and Sheffield (41%) also rank high. Most in-demand flat property features When looking at what features of a flat are most sought after amongst buyers, the availability of garden space within a development is the hottest requirement in the current market. 44% of all flats with garden space listed for sale on the market are already sold or under offer. Parking and garage space ranked as the second most sought after feature of an apartment property (42%), with a balcony and terrace (36%) placing ahead of a porter or concierge (27%). COO of Warwick Estates, Emma Power, commented: “There’s no doubting that the monotony of lockdown has caused many to look to greener, larger, pastures, that allow them the space to escape the confines of their four walls even under lockdown restrictions. However, this certainly doesn’t mean that flats and apartments have become redundant in today’s market and in many cities, this is quite the opposite. For some, it’s simply a lifestyle choice, others will be looking to downsize and for many more, the generally more affordable price of apartments allows them to get a foot on the ladder with a place to call their own. With a lockdown escape plan now in place, we expect demand for flat living to strengthen as our major cities once again become the hub for our professional and social lives. Of course, with the pandemic and memories of lockdown still very fresh in our minds, homebuyers of all property types will continue to prioritise size and outdoor space when searching for their perfect home. ” Table shows overall buyer demand for flats listed in each city, as well as individual demand for flats based on each property feature City Overall demand Garden Parking or Garage Balcony or Terrace Porter or Concierge Glasgow 71% 74% 69% 64% 71% Edinburgh 60% 61% 60% 51% 45% Bristol 55% 56% 54% 45% 44% Plymouth 53% 58% 56% 45% 43% Bournemouth 47% 45% 48% 45% 28% Portsmouth 45% 47% 45% 46% 34% Leeds 42% 51% 49% 36% 32% Southampton 42% 47% 43% 39% 20% Nottingham 42% 48% 43% 39% 28% Sheffield 41% 52% 51% 41% 33% Cardiff 39% 46% 41% 30% 21% Belfast 36% 42% 39% 40% 0% Bradford 34% 38% 38% 39% 26% Newcastle 31% 37% 29% 19% 7% Leicester 28% 26% 33% 25% 27% London 27% 31% 29% 23% 14% Birmingham 25% 31% 31% 27% 15% Liverpool 25% 32% 32% 26% 21% Swansea 24% 25% 26% 20% 13% Manchester 22% 23% 26% 22% 13% Average of all 20 UK Cities 40% 44% 42% 36% 27% Data sourced from Zoopla (18/03/2021). Demand based on the number of properties sold subject to contract or under offer as a percentage of all properties listed.
Every industry is facing an uncertain few years. Changes to the way we live our lives are driving fundamental changes in our society. As is digital transformation. The wholesale uptake of digital technologies, robotics, automated systems and electronics is moving us further and further away from traditional modes of work. The construction industry is facing the same reckoning. With new innovations for building materials and methods hitting the trade market more often, some industry insiders worry that the demand for skilled tradesmen withing the building industry will decrease. Traditional tradesmen, highly skilled workers who have learned their trade, have been at the epicentre of construction for hundreds of years. Their knowledge and expertise have helped to complete some of the greatest construction projects on earth. Developments in building methods and technology are starting to undermine the traditional trades. Hoping to make construction more efficient, modern building technologies and methods could see demand for skilled trades decrease in the years to come. For example, a dry hip system removes the need for sand and mortar when installing a roof, making the installation process much simpler. How the demand for skilled labour will be impacted is still unclear. However, the Chancellor’s announcement of financial incentives for apprenticeships will further boost the numbers of young people looking to move into trades. If the industry gets on top of learning and teaching these new building methods, we could see a boom of more efficient building projects across the country. This could improve the living conditions for thousands of people across the UK, while also providing secure jobs for generations of seasoned and new tradespeople up and down the country. It will hopefully fill the gap of highly skilled European workers who are no longer coming to Britain after Brexit. As fears of decreased demand for skilled workers in the construction industry continue, there are areas of construction where jobs opportunities look set to improve over the next few years. Project management demand within the industry is still high and looks set to remain that way. While the demand for tradesmen and skilled workers may fluctuate over the next few years, the industry as a whole looks set for a boom decade. Learning new building methods, how to maintain and run automated systems, and adapting to new work environments will make the difference between employment or not over the next few years.
If your building makes employees experience sick building syndrome (SBS), it’s time for you to take this matter seriously. SBS is a condition where people get sick because of the building’s condition. Many factors contribute to this, like poor indoor air quality and other subfactors that weren’t considered beforehand. Since the sick building syndrome includes many symptoms, it’s difficult to tell if one is only experiencing a common cold. One thing to tell things apart is when the symptoms continue to reoccur when someone visits or returns to the exact location. If you want to know more about this specific disorder, you can get more information here. It’s imperative for buildings to be constructed with one’s health concern in mind. Thus, if you’re on your way to construct or renovate, here are some ways to prevent health problems from your building: 1. Improve Air Ventilation Doubling the air ventilation system in your building will also double the output for your workers’ cognitive function. This will impact productivity and performance, resulting in decreased sick leaves by employees. Although investing in double ventilation may cost a bit higher initially, this will create a better atmosphere and working environment on your office floors. Inadequate ventilation will lead to high humidity and increase carbon dioxide concentrations, which will cause people to feel stuffy and suffocated. Proper ventilation controls odors and dilutes gases, as well as hampers the spread of respiratory diseases. Invest in a good quality HVAC system for all offices and floors of your building. Also, consider your structure’s demographic location as summer and winter season often requires your air conditioner and heater to function perfectly. 2. Allow More Natural Light Even in the old times, many building occupants usually complain about the lighting. It may be too dark and dim or some buildings are blasted with harsh fluorescents. The good thing about technological advancement is that many building construction projects have now utilized more natural lighting and techniques, like task lighting, dimmers, and timers. Such methods are suitable for the environment, as well as result in happier and more productive employees and building occupants. Another good news in the field of natural lighting in buildings is that more scientific research is being conducted on how some lighting designs can influence the body’s daily cycles and circadian rhythms. By using specific bulb designs that are blue-enriched and are naturally mimicking daylight, employees can now have improved sleep quality at night. 3. Go Green Incorporating nature into the workplace is one of the ways for buildings to become more work-friendly to everyone. Placing indoor plants and having a rooftop garden are some strategies for facilities to ensure an environment that helps maintain people’s mental health. Indoor plants are said to reduce stress levels and sharpen people’s attention. Many companies and organizations have been keenly aware of this advantage, which is why most commercial buildings have gone green with their interiors. 4. Design Your Building Appropriately The blueprint and architectural design of your building play a vital role in maintaining the occupants’ health condition. Also, encouraging mobility and interaction between colleagues are dependent on how the building is designed. The interior design and placements of furniture and equipment should be properly planned out. Your building should have locations for cluster printers, water coolers, and designate communal trash and recycling bins. As for the outer part of your building, you should have streetscapes that encourage occupants and employees to take a walk, ride bicycles, or make it accessible to commute via public transportation, so occupants have a space for some physical exercises. 5. Apply Healthy Building Strategies Another way to boost your building’s defenses against disease is to enact healthy building strategies. Know which areas and corners in the building need to be more ventilated. Use portable air purifiers on each floor and consider different innovative gadgets like touchless entryways, elevators, and automatic systems for sinks and toilet flushes. Furthermore, using enhanced disinfection and sanitization protocols will meet everyone’s demands for maintaining a clean and healthy space. Thus, invest in hygiene systems and proper training for the cleaning staff. Ensuring a clean workspace will inspire everyone in the building to stay organized and healthy. Conclusion Ensuring that your building is in its best condition for your occupants and employees is very important, which is why it’s important to apply these different ways to prevent health problems. Keep in mind that your building should have good ventilation, more natural light, designed with some greeneries, and should have a productive interior and exterior design. All these factors and more will ensure everyone in the building will stay healthy and happy.
The construction industry has always been ranked as among the most dangerous sectors to work in. The combination of safety and health risks that involve heavy-duty equipment, vehicles, and manual tasks makes the industry notoriously dangerous. In fact, statistics from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) shows that 20% of workplace deaths occurred in construction sites. The 2020 pandemic made safety in construction sites even more of a concern. Protocols would have to be implemented, and local laws regarding COVID 19 safety would have to be followed diligently. Cutting corners to save costs may be tempting for employers, but workplace-related injuries would be more costly in the long run; around 1.6 million workdays are lost annually due to work accidents and injuries. Besides, ignoring safety rules would be gambling with workers’ safety, not to mention the lawsuits that could result if safety protocols are ignored. In any case, safety should always be a priority as it’s in everybody’s interest. All stakeholders involved in the job should be able to work without worrying about unsafe workplaces. There are many ways to improve safety in the job, and the cost doesn’t have to be prohibitive. Below are a few tips for staying safe in the construction industry. Tips For Staying Safe In the US, an average of two construction workers die every day due to work-related injuries. One in five workplace deaths, in fact, happens in the construction industry. The most common causes of fatalities in construction sites are being struck by or caught between objects, falls, and electrocution. An employee typically cannot sue the employer for any injuries suffered on the job. What the employee can do is make use of the workers’ compensation system. There are instances, however, when the contractors and the owners of the premises could be held liable if any injuries happened to workers on-site. Furthermore, laws and regulations can apply differently to non-union employees who weren’t eligible for safety training. Here are the findings regarding cases like these. 1. Workers Should Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) If you’re an employer, provide your workers with the appropriate personal protective equipment. A proper PPE worn correctly can protect people from injuries of all sorts—minor, serious, or the fatal kind. A properly-appointed PPE can consist of a helmet, safety goggles, ear protection, knee pads, safety shoes, safety belt, and hi-visibility jackets. If any of the pieces are worn out or broken, have them replaced immediately. Also, ensure that PPEs are worn by the workers at all times while on-site. 2. Scaffolding Should Be Up To Standard Scaffoldings can be dangerous, that’s why neither shortcuts nor improvisations should be involved when erecting one. Scaffoldings shouldn’t have any risk of collapsing; they should be erected on stable ground and with a solid foundation. Scaffoldings should also be well-maintained. If any damage or inconsistencies appear, it should be immediately repaired. Make sure also that workers are trained adequately in scaffolding safety. Keep in mind that 47% of construction workers’ injuries result from falls. 3. Health And Safety Training Sufficient health and safety training is required for construction workers, especially those who work in high- and medium-risk environments. They should also be made aware of COVID-19 health protocols for the job site and the community, and ensure that they follow these to the letter. Workers should also be aware of the risks involved with their jobs, like when working at a height, in confined spaces, or with machinery. Basic knowledge of first aid and know-how to give life-saving techniques like CPR are also advised. 4. Display Signs Prominently Construction sites are inherently hazardous, not only for the workers, but for the public too. That’s why putting up signs and posters prominently to warn everyone to be careful is important. Signs could alert everyone of the presence of dangers, such as falling debris or objects, the presence of chemicals or gas, or large vehicles. Putting up signs can be a cost-effective method of lessening accidents. 5. Regular Inspection of Tools and Equipment Workers depend on their tools—to get the job done and to do the job efficiently. Broken tools are unsafe and could result in serious accidents. Almost 3% of construction workers suffered injuries for the year 2019-2020, which is higher statistically than the rate in all other industries. For the rate to be reduced, a thorough and regular inspection of equipment should be conducted to prevent any malfunction that could cause harm. Any issues stemming from defective equipment or subpar tools should be highlighted by both the employer and the workers. The responsibility falls on everybody involved. Conclusion Construction sites are one of the most dangerous places to work in. Injury and workplace fatality rates in the construction industry are among the highest. Employers, contractors, and workers should be made aware that safety is everybody’s concern. Ignoring safety protocols can be costly, in more ways than one.
Nottingham: Blocwork LLP, a 50:50 joint venture between Network Rail and Bloc Group to develop rail side sites nationally, has appointed GRAHAM as construction partner to build a PRS ‘build to rent’ development on Queens Road, Nottingham. The development is being funded by the FTSE250 property business, Grainger Plc, the UK’s largest listed provider of private rental homes, and is its first PRS ‘build to rent’ development in Nottingham. Designed by Franklin Ellis Architects, the development has already secured planning consent for 348 homes and is located in a desirable location on the Queens Road, which is near the town centre and adjacent to Nottingham railway station. Providing 197,250 sq ft over 10 floors, the development will comprise a mix of studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with amenity and commercial space at ground floor level. It will be built in just over a 2-year construction programme. Ronan Hughes, Regional Director from GRAHAM, said: “There’s a strong market for high-quality PRS development in Nottingham and this project represents a positive step forward in the area’s future development. Grainger is universally recognised as one of the leading providers of build to rent accommodation, so we are looking forward to working with them and the wider project team to bring this development forward.” Helen Gordon, Chief Executive of Grainger, said: “We are pleased to progress with our Nottingham development, which upon completion will provide 348 new high quality rental homes, all professionally managed by an inhouse Grainger service team. Nottingham has a vibrant community with a strong and growing demand for renting and our Queens Road development will offer renters in the city a great home, great value, flexible and long-term agreements, and a range of resident amenities, including co-working space and superfast highspeed broadband included within the rent. Grainger’s homes appeal to a diverse range of renters; from young professionals through to families and downsizers. We look forward to sharing updates as the development progresses” Richard Thomas, Director, Bloc Ltd and Blocwork LLP said: “We are delighted to be working with GRAHAM and Grainger on this project. Having been a former student at Nottingham University many years ago, I have really enjoyed putting the scheme together with our team that once completed will add to the vibrancy of this part of Nottingham and complete the redevelopment of the station which has become a great regional transport hub.” Stuart Kirkwood, Group Property Director, Network Rail Property said: “The Nottingham development is a fantastic example of Network Rail working closely with the private sector to deliver vital new homes on land no longer required by the operational railway. The investment by Grainger points to the growing appetite in the sector for viable build to rent schemes, and we are pleased this investment has now moved on the construction phase. Network Rail has a track record of successful partnership projects across the country, which not only deliver housing, jobs and economic growth, but also generate vital funds to be reinvested back into the railway, improving services for our passengers.” GRAHAM started on site last month and construction is expected to complete April 2023.
SEGRO is taking sustainability to a new level after securing a major pre-let at SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway with a leading online retailer, which will include double-deck parking for 200 electric vans. The customer has agreed a 15-year lease for a 150,000 sq ft unit on a 21-acre site. The BREEAM ‘Excellent’ (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) building will be used as a distribution hub. The double-level vehicle parking areas will have the ability to provide electrical charging to all 200 van parking spaces on site. Other sustainable features include roof-mounted photovoltaic panels and LED lighting. SEGRO has been able to provide an accelerated construction programme to enable the customer to expand its operations as quickly as possible. The accelerated programme will enable SEGRO to deliver the space to the customer in just over five months, rather than the nine months a standard build programme would take for a building of this size. Furthermore, the customer will have access to be able to begin its internal fit out after just 14 weeks. The pre-let illustrates the developer’s ‘Responsible SEGRO’ commitment – a framework launched in February, which is anchored on three priority areas; championing low-carbon growth, investing in local communities and nurturing talent. Andrew Pilsworth, Managing Director, National Logistics, SEGRO, said: “This pre-let is a brilliant example of how we are supporting our customers’ growth plans and showcases how we are helping them meet their sustainability goals. “The deal highlights the region’s increasing demand for modern, sustainable warehouse and industrial space, and how developments like SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway can provide the scale, location and connectivity to meet them.” Already home to a diverse range of customers including Games Workshop and DHL, the logistics hub is centrally located within the UK industrial and logistics market, offering immediate access to the UK’s motorway network as well as dedicated on-site rail and air freight terminal – the UK’s largest freight airport operating 24 hours a day – with direct link to Felixstowe and Southampton. The proximity to the major cities of Leicester, Derby and Nottingham and other local towns ensure a strong labour pool. Practical completion of the new unit is anticipated in August 2021. For more information please contact: Lara Al-Sabti, External Communications Executive, SEGRO lara.alsabti@segro.com
Premier Forecourts and Construction, a specialist in forecourts and diverse construction projects, has completed works at a Motor Fuel Group (MFG) site at Crow Orchard in Wigan, providing MFG’s latest ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) 150kW chargers. Swansea-based Premier Forecourts and Construction was appointed by MFG as principal contractor to install eight new bays with ultra-rapid 150kW chargers for electric vehicles at the site. The Crow Orchard electric vehicle hub is the first of MFG’s EV Power stations to be located next to a major trunk road. The site now caters for drivers of electric vehicles as well as traditional petrol and diesel engines, with the cutting-edge ultra-rapid EV chargers allowing around 100 miles of driving from just 10 minutes of charging – making the refuelling experience comparable to that of drivers of petrol and diesel cars. Following Prime Minister Johnson’s announcement towards the end of 2020, which brought forward the date for the ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars and vans to 2030, the future of motoring is undoubtedly electric. As a result, MFG are investing significantly in electric vehicle charging points across the UK. Time-lapse footage released collaboratively by Premier Forecourts and Construction and Motor Fuel Group shows how the work to install the eight new EV chargers was able to be completed, whilst allowing the busy service station to remain open. The project was completed on time, safely and without disruption, despite the challenging working environment caused by COVID-19. Formerly the construction division of The Premier Group, Premier Forecourts and Construction has grown and diversified into other areas of construction, in addition to its specialist forecourt work. Its work base within the electrical vehicle charging sector has significantly increased in recent years, showcasing its successful expansion into new markets. Steve Evans, Premier Forecourts and Construction managing director, said: “We were delighted to be working on such an important project for MFG using its new design of EV charger. We hope this will be the first of many similar projects we complete for them across the UK.” Andrew Edwards, Group Infrastructure Director at MFG, said: “A very complex construction project delivered on time, delivered on budget and made easy, thank you Premier!”
Technology will help Knight Frank RAM perform key management activities and improve tenant communications MRI Software, a global leader in real estate software solutions, announces that Knight Frank’s Residential Asset Management (RAM) department is now leveraging MRI’s widely used property management and accounting platform, MRI Qube PM – deepening the technology partnership between the two companies. Qube PM will help Knight Frank RAM perform all key management activities and improve communications with tenants. It will also power the integrated MRI Engage resident portal, enabling tailored resident experiences for different clients. After identifying the need to replace its existing solution, Knight Frank RAM surveyed the market and decided on MRI’s Qube PM application due to its rich functionality and proven performance, scale, and innovation. Michael Toogood, Partner at Knight Frank, said: “Choosing a partner for such a mission-critical step for our business was always a decision that we would take after careful due diligence. I am delighted that we appear to have made a good decision.” Responsible for the block and corporate client management of Knight Frank’s residential operation, the RAM business unit offers a full service, covering property accounting, property and maintenance management, and client portal engagement. Daniel Foryszewski, Sales Manager for MRI’s residential solutions, said: “It is great to see the RAM team has selected a solution from MRI for this requirement, and that we have an opportunity to deepen an already strong partnership with Knight Frank, helping them support this established service line.” About MRI Software MRI Software is a leading provider of real estate software solutions that transform the way communities live, work and play. MRI’s comprehensive, flexible, open and connected platform empowers owners, operators and occupiers in commercial and residential property organizations to innovate in rapidly changing markets. MRI has been a trailblazer in the PropTech industry for over five decades, serving more than two million users worldwide. Through leading solutions and a rich partner ecosystem, MRI gives real estate companies the freedom to elevate their business and gain a competitive edge. For more information, please visit mrisoftware.com.
Let’s face it. Clogging is a common issue in every home. As long as your house has a drainage system, you will experience some form of clogging at one time. Your sink will block. The toilet drain will clog, and the drainage flow will stop. These plumbing issues vary in magnitude and type. When clogging occurs, many people opt for DIY approaches. You will come across many articles and blogs offering ideas on how to deal with blocked drains. The idea of unblocking drains yourself is to help you save money. Some people will even advise you to never engage a plumber in such tasks. Whether true or not, working with a plumber when you face a clogging problem is crucial. Here are some reasons why: Drain cleaning chemicals damage your pipes Many do-it-yourself unclogging approaches involve the use of chemicals. The chemicals such as vinegar and baking soda work perfectly, solving the clogging problem. Many sellers of these caustic products promote them as healthy and user-friendly. They present them as an excellent way to save those coins you would use to hire a plumber. While the options work, what they do not tell you is the impact of the caustic chemicals on your drainage pipes. These elements eat up your pipes when their residue attaches to the interior surface. As you continue using them, you will likely suffer pipe bursts. Such an experience would be more costly than hiring a plumber. Despite the magnitude of the clog, involving a plumber is always a good idea than using these caustic substances. They have the right tools Plumbers are professionals who use specific tools in their job. They have special tools for handling each case in the plumbing system. When your drainage block, a plumber will bring the right tools to assess your situation. For instance, a plumber can have motorized and manual augers for snaking your drains. Also, they have HD drain and sewer line cameras for viewing your entire drainage system. Others have a hydro-jetting machine essential for cleaning your drainage and dealing with nasty smells. With these tools, you can be confident that they will troubleshoot and solve your clogging issue effectively. Clogging can be a sign of a bigger drainage issue Frequent clogging or multiple slow down on your drainage, maybe more than what you see. You might think that the issue is on your sink. So, you use the DIY mechanism to unclog it. Tomorrow, you experience a repeat of the same issue. Multiple clogging might be a sign of a bigger issue on your drainage system. In this case, considering a Sydney Drainage Plumber is a good idea. The plumber will use their drainage assessment tools. Through them, they will diagnose any other potential issues in your drains. This way, you will avoid future costly issues and get an immediate fix. Saves your money One marketing hype that DIY unclogging promoters use is that you will save money by unblocking your drains without involving a plumber. Though there is some truth in it, you might end up spending more money on fixing your drain that you would with a plumber. The caustic products are cheap, while other options do not require you to spend any cash. But involving a plumber is a money-saving affair. A plumber will do an intensive diagnosis of your drainage system. They understand that a clog might be a reflection of a bigger issue. So, they will not only fix the clog but will do extra assessments. This way, you will save money that you would spend on fixing the major drainage in the future. Professionalism A plumber will not only unblock your drains. Rather, plumbers like Fixed Today will offer professional drain cleaning services. The services will include cleaning any debris and sticky elements on your drain pipes. Also, they will clean out the residues of your DIY products lying on your pipes. Remember, plumbers have the right skills for handling each draining case. So, they will always offer professional unclogging services. This aspect will save you from other replacement costs. Hence, if you value professionalism, you should consider engaging a qualified plumber in any case of clogged drains. Reduce chances of future clogs No doubt, DIY unclogging does not offer a permanent solution. Your drainage will clog again after some time. The caustic products only work to remove the clogging debris but do not clean your pipes. This means that the greasy and dirty stuck on the pipe walls remain intact. In the end, these elements and chemical residues will cause another clogging in the near future. In some cases, they become corrosive and cause leaks on your draining system. Working with a qualified plumber comes with some benefits. As noted above, the plumber will not only unclog the drains but also will go on and clean them. This act removes all sticky elements enhancing the drainage flow. As well, a clean drain has lower chances of experiencing future clogs. Hence, a plumber provides a long-term solution, unlike the use of DIY approaches. Efficient and healthy As you know, clogged drains are smelly and awful, which makes them unhygienic and unhealthy. This aspect puts your family at risk of diseases. The debris and unclogging chemicals enhance bacteria growth. Others are hazardous and with the potential of hurting your skin. Since plumbers have professional training in handling clogged drains, they know the best chemicals to use in their job. So, they will only use substances that are less hazardous and safe for your health. This would not be the case when you use the locally fed unclogging products. Wrapping up In a word, clogged drains are a disaster in any household. Think of the awful smell and messy floods on the floor. When clogging occurs, many people rush for the DIY methods. Only a few homeowners contact a plumber. In essence, a plumber is the last resort for many people. However, this should not be the case. As