Business : BDC Blog News

Caterpillar® Operator Challenge crowns best UK & Ireland operators

The victors in the UK and Ireland leg of the Caterpillar® Global Operator Challenge have been confirmed following a set of highly competitive tests at the Caterpillar Visitor Centre in Leicestershire.  Operators demonstrated agility, speed and precision in a variety of challenges using the latest Cat equipment. Amongst a tough

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WAVIN TEAMS UP WITH BAND OF BUILDERS TO SUPPORT HEREFORD TRADESMAN

Leading plumbing and drainage manufacturer Wavin has completed the first project in a new relationship with Band of Builders to support tradespeople in need. Band of Builders is a registered charity that provides support for members of the construction industry who are facing life-changing health issues. Since it was created

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5 Things to Know About a Slitter Rewinder

A slitter rewinder is a machine used in the converting industry. The converting industry is an important part of manufacturing, and it’s especially relevant right now, as the U.S. is working to promote more onshoring of manufacturing and similar work.  The following is a guide to the converting industry and

Read More »

Understanding Fluid Catalytic Cracking and FCCU Repairs

Any business that does oil refinement or something similar must know about fluid catalytic cracking and fluid catalytic cracking units, which some in the industry abbreviate as FCCUs. We’ll go over both of those concepts in detail in the following article. What is Fluid Catalytic Cracking? Fluid catalytic cracking is

Read More »

Ensuring Your Building Fully Maximises Renewable Energy

With the threat of climate change being high, many people want to help in their own way. As a building owner, you are in an excellent position to make significant changes to your building. The general opinion is that integrating these innovations into the building can get expensive. However, modern

Read More »

Top Five Evergreen Trees for Landscaping

Landscaping covers an array of different features when it comes to gardening, including flower beds, fences, walkways, fountains and much more.  In particular, evergreen trees are a must-have when it comes to landscaping. They offer a vibrant display of rich, green-coloured foliage that can be greatly enjoyed through every season,

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9 Great Ways to Upgrade Your Deck Area

If your deck area is becoming a little bland, it may be time to spice it up with some upgrades. A majority of the options in this article are inexpensive and straightforward to implement. So you can have your deck area transformed in a matter of days to weeks if

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

Business : BDC Blog News

Leep Utilities signs as new season sponsor with Hednesford Town Football Club

As the football season is about to kick off, Southern Central Premier Leagues Hednesford Town Football Club is the latest winning team to partner with Leep Utilities – but this time it’s as club sponsor. The deal will provide much needed support to the thriving non-league semi-professional football club, with a growing youth academy and as a vibrant and active part of the local community. It will also support its ambitious plans to return to the English Football League and again compete in matches like its 1997 FA Cup fourth round nail biter against EFL Championship side Middlesbrough. As part of the deal, Leep Utilities’ logo features on the First Team players’ shirts. The owner-operator of regulated and non-regulated multi-utility networks across the UK is also sponsoring centre midfielder Lewis Hayden and will feature on pitch-side advertising hoardings and in all home game programmes. Hednesford Town Football Club’s Chairman and Co-Owner Graham Jones said: “We’re thrilled to welcome on board Leep Utilities as a main sponsor this season. We’re both ambitious and the next 12 months looks equally bright for both of us.” “Our pre-season friendlies have been brilliant and we’re really getting noticed by the bigger teams, such as Aston Villa and Birmingham City, who are sending over topflight players and are keen to play against us. They recognise that our game quality is high, and that they’ll have a great physical fight on their hands for 90 minutes or more. As a club, we’re moving in the right direction, for sure, and we can’t wait to see what this next season has in store.” “We’re also really looking forward to getting back into creating exceptional match experiences for our sponsors. I took over the club in May 2020 and the pandemic put a stop to the match day experience. But it’s back and we can’t wait for our sponsors to enjoy our corporate hospitality and use our games as an enjoyable and valuable networking experience as well. We’re aligned to some very successful organisations, and we can’t wait to welcome them all here, to enjoy great football and hopefully business opportunities, from 6th August.” Leep Utilities’ CEO Louise Manfredi said: “We’re delighted to be able to help kick off the new season as a main sponsor at Hednesford Town Football Club. As a company, Leep owns and operates and owns essential “last mile” utility infrastructure in local communities – connecting new buildings across the UK to electricity, gas, water and wastewater networks – and we have very ambitious growth plans of our own, just as Hednesford Town Football Club does. “ “This summer marks some very important milestones in our development. We’ve recently won our 200th project, we’ve moved into spacious new offices to accommodate our growing team and we’re enjoying some truly wonderful successes. We’re certainly excited about our future and it appears that Hednesford Town Football Club is at a similarly exciting point.” “So, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish the Hednesford Town’s First Team the very best of luck this season and we’ll be cheering you on from the side-lines, when we come along to watch with many of our business partners.”

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Landlords and Home Owners: Discover how to make Viral Videos on TikTok

Social networks are one of the main marketing tools in today’s world. That includes TikTok, which can be a little more difficult to handle, unless you find someone below 25 years of age to take care of it, for you. However, this may not be the best solution either. Here are a few tips to help you create viral videos on TikTok. Follow the Waves Actually, on TikTok, these waves are called trends. They can be explained simply as a large number of people copying a video that has worked well. To do so, they use the element that enabled it to reach so many people and to become a viral TikTok video. Sometimes it is a special filter that was used, while at others, it is about using a particular song, or dancing in a certain manner. These waves are what you need to ride upon, if you want a chance to also go viral. Naturally, you need to find a way to insert the subject that you want to talk about, which is apartments or houses to rent. The next tip may be the hardest one to follow… Be Funny The TikTok crowd is different from Instagram and Facebook. It is one that doesn’t take anything seriously. The way to their heart is humour. And so, you need to find a way to get your message through, while not taking yourself seriously. However, since the crowd is young, you have a large gathering of potential students needing to find somewhere to stay, over the next semesters. Therefore, TikTok is not something you should neglect. Find the Right Hashtags If you want other people than your followers looking at your video, you need to start by adding hashtags to it. Again, you need to think of two completely different things: One – to be funny, and two – to be on the subject. And so, you should choose hashtags according to the trend it is following, but also make it about people who are looking to rent an apartment or a house. Five hashtags per post should do the trick. Gain Followers The thing about viral videos, is that they get shared by the people who view them, to their own followers. If it works, the latter will also share it to theirs, and so on, creating a gigantic number of views and likes. Therefore, to increase your chances of being reshared, over and over again, you need to grow your number of followers. The higher the number, the more chances you have to start the wave, so that it can grow to a viral status. Be Original As much as you want to copy others, you also want to be original in the way you do it. Otherwise, you will remain just another video on a popular subject. Sometimes, you need to break the mold, so that people do react to your content. There are many ways to do so. Up to you to find the one that fits your message. Be careful but also bold.

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Caterpillar® Operator Challenge crowns best UK & Ireland operators

The victors in the UK and Ireland leg of the Caterpillar® Global Operator Challenge have been confirmed following a set of highly competitive tests at the Caterpillar Visitor Centre in Leicestershire.  Operators demonstrated agility, speed and precision in a variety of challenges using the latest Cat equipment. Amongst a tough field, Finning announced the UK regional winner as Bryan Williamson with an overall time of 6 minutes and 6 seconds and the Irish regional winner as returning 2019 champion Tommy Murphy, with an overall time of 5 minutes and 54 seconds. Both will now go through to the European semi-finals which are being held in Malaga in October. Here they will compete in a series of even tougher challenges against some of the best machine operators in Europe for a place at the prestigious final to be crowned Global Champion in Las Vegas. To find the winners, a host of talented operators from the UK and Ireland competed in three challenges using different machines and illustrating different skills and capabilities. This year’s challenges included working with a Cat Next Generation 313 excavator and a 930 Wheel Loader. Bryan Williamson, UK regional winner said: “I am so pleased to have represented my country well in this challenge, it’s a great achievement. “After competing at the previous Operator Challenge in 2019, my day-to-day work as an operator at Eastern Civils and Construction and a bit of luck prepared me for this year’s challenge.  Although there was some tough competition and challenging tasks, I know it will be fiercer competition at the next stage in Malaga.” Tommy Murphy, Irish regional winner said: “It’s great to see that the stakes are getting higher each year, but a returning win feels incredible.  “After the tough finale in Las Vegas in the last Operator Challenge, I hope this time I will be crowned the champion!” With a two year hiatus since the last event, a new and unique mystery challenge was introduced.  Using the new Cat Command technology, operators were tasked with using a remote console to control a dozer located over 5000 miles away in Arizona. This helped to test the 21st century skills of the operators, whilst demonstrating the huge potential benefits for safety and productivity that Cat Command offers. Tracey Earp, Marketing Manager at Finning said: “We are so pleased with the turnout at this year’s challenge after a two year break during Covid. We have been really impressed with the quality of entrants and how they all took to the range of challenges we had set. So both Bryan and Tommy did absolutely brilliantly to finish in first place.” “Events like this make me so proud of the people we have in our industry and hopeful for the future, with a few female contenders being role models for all women in construction. We are so excited to see who will be awarded European Champion in October and if Bryan or Tommy will progress to compete on the world stage.” Visit Finning’s website for more information: https://www.finning.com/en_GB.html

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WAVIN TEAMS UP WITH BAND OF BUILDERS TO SUPPORT HEREFORD TRADESMAN

Leading plumbing and drainage manufacturer Wavin has completed the first project in a new relationship with Band of Builders to support tradespeople in need. Band of Builders is a registered charity that provides support for members of the construction industry who are facing life-changing health issues. Since it was created in 2016, it has completed more than 25 construction projects across the UK, bringing volunteers from across the industry together to provide financial and emotional support for tradespeople and their families. Wavin recently supported Band of Builders on a project to help Kyle O’Connor – a multi-skiller from Hereford who had previously worked with the charity as a volunteer and received a cancer diagnosis part-way through an extension on his family home. Band of Builders and its team of volunteers stepped in to complete the work, with Wavin providing all drainage products, including those needed for a wetroom conversion. Lee Frimston, Key Account Manager Independents and Buying Groups, at Wavin UK, said: “Band of Builders is a fantastic charity and shows what can be achieved when people work together in this industry. We’re proud to have supported the team on this project for Kyle, and look forward to continuing to support the incredible work they do.” Tony Steel, Operations Director at Band of Builders, said: “One of the most rewarding aspects of our job is improving the lives of construction workers, and we’re grateful to play our part in unifying the construction industry under this common goal. “Projects such as this, alongside our Big Brew initiative – which is focused on mental health awareness – are examples of how our sector can make tradespeople’s lives better. We are incredibly thankful to Wavin for supplying materials and the volunteers who gave up their time to work on Kyle’s project.” For more information on Band of Builders, visit: https://bandofbuilders.org/ Or, to find out more about Wavin’s products and services, visit: https://www.wavin.com/

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5 Things to Know About a Slitter Rewinder

A slitter rewinder is a machine used in the converting industry. The converting industry is an important part of manufacturing, and it’s especially relevant right now, as the U.S. is working to promote more onshoring of manufacturing and similar work.  The following is a guide to the converting industry and what the implications are, as well as more specifics about the slitter rewinder, also just known as a slitter.  1. The Converting Industry The term converting industry refers to manufacturing processes and practices that are used to process materials that come in thin layer form. Thin layer-formed materials can include textiles, paper, foil, plastic film, and materials that aren’t woven.  The materials are usually stored and then shipped in their roll form after being wound.  A roll of shipped materials can be just a few inches in diameter, or these materials can be many feet.  The material width can be a fraction of an inch to several feet wide.  Converting processes include painting, coating, and laminating. Other converting processes include slitting, which means making narrow rolls from wider roles, drying, die cutting, packaging, and extruding.  The processes can go from very slow speeds to high speeds of thousands of feet per minute. The processes can be high-tech and sophisticated, and they’re often pretty customized.  A material roll is usually unwound from its roll form in one layer, then they’re processed and rewound into a roll so it can be shipped or processed further. The single material layer is the web that flows through machines or a process.  Basically, the term converting in converting industry means a roll of material is processed and then converted into a roll of something else.  2. Web Handling Web handling is the engineering, equipment, and science that’s needed to bring flexible materials through the different required converting processes. The right kind of web handling, which can be done through the use of the right designed, engineered, and manufactured equipment, can make sure that webs are transported through their converting processes without any defects.  3. The Role of a Slitter Rewinder Slitter rewinders are used for some essential functions that help make the modern soft materials we know today. Slitter rewinders are machines that cut what’s known as a parent or master roll of material to a width that’s smaller.  The materials need to be cut smaller so they can go on to the next step in the production process. A slitter rewinder is a piece of equipment that’s found in a wide range of manufacturing facilities across many global industries.  The majority of these pieces of machinery are built for particular types of material, but they can also be modified, so they’re able to slit different materials.  Along with the roll specifications of the material, most manufacturers want machines that will slit specific materials when they’re choosing them. They also want to consider factors like how easy to use they are, their safety, floor space they would take up, and speed.  A master roll is made to be as large as it can be because that’s cost-effective, which is why it then needs to be slit to the right width.  4. Winding Type Slitter rewinders can be characterized and categorized based on winding type, including: – Center winding: This is the most common method to rewind materials that might have different levels of thickness throughout the roll’s width. The material will go through a nip and anvil roll where it’s then slit using the right method. At that point, it’s rewound onto a core. This rewinding method is used for materials like woven items, foams, foils, films, and tapes. It’s useful for materials that could be sensitive to higher tension settings and compression.  – Turret winding: The method is a variation of center winding. It’s an alternative that can help reduce machine downtime, so multiple shafts are used, and then the machine can keep slitting on an active shaft, while an operator or sometimes automated mechanisms will unload and then reset the finished shift. This method is meant to help reduce changeover times. It’s for consumer goods, paper items, tapes, and high-volume products.  – Surface winding: Also referred to as drum surface winding, in this method, the rewinding materials are usually large in diameter. Non-wovens and paper are the applications of surface winding.  – Center surface winding: in this method, there’s a combination of elements borrowing from traditional surface rewinding and also center winding. The applications for this method include materials that aren’t woven and are slit to a smaller width. As the diameter goes up, the rewinding center shaft will keep the tension.  5. How It Works There are three primary functions of a slitter rewinder which are performed in a fixed order. The process starts with the already rolled paper or material, and it has to be unwound so that it can go through the rewinder in one single layer. As it goes through the machine, it’s slit by one of many available cutting methods into strips of the right thickness.  After the material is slit to its market-ready dimensions, it’s rewound into a roll that’s then sellable.  The cutting can be done in different ways, primarily based on the type of material.  The oldest type of cutting is known as score cutting. With score cutting, the materials between a dull blade and hard surface are cut. This is used for adhesives like tape, with a dry and sticky side.  Another method is razor blade cutting, which tends to be the most cost-effective approach. This uses a blade positioned over the area where the sheet is fed. As the material goes through a drum or set of drums, it’s drawn against the blade.  The method can’t be used for heavy items, rigid materials, or abrasive materials.  Finally, there’s shear cutting which is the most accurate method, and it can be used with rigid, thicker, and heavier materials like laminates and foils. This uses two, typically rotating blades. The material is pulled between

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Understanding Fluid Catalytic Cracking and FCCU Repairs

Any business that does oil refinement or something similar must know about fluid catalytic cracking and fluid catalytic cracking units, which some in the industry abbreviate as FCCUs. We’ll go over both of those concepts in detail in the following article. What is Fluid Catalytic Cracking? Fluid catalytic cracking is part of the complex, lengthy gasoline production process. If you’re dealing with catalytic particles, you’ll soon discover that they convert long-chain, thick hydrocarbons. These come from crude oil. You’re trying to create gasoline from those because it’s profitable and beneficial for humanity. You’ll need what those in the industry call a riser line. There, you can refine the long-chain hydrocarbons by fluidizing them. You blow them upward at a very high velocity, and as they rise, they react. This produces a coke-coated catalyst. In your reactor, you’ll have two cyclone sets. These work on the hydrocarbons by feeding them into the regeneration section. An air grind fluidizes them. At that point, you can burn off the catalyst particles that you no longer need. The catalyst absorbs the excess heat, and you can control the cracking reaction safely and expediently. This is where FCCUs come into play. What is a Fluid Catalytic Cracking Unit? You’ll need a fluid catalytic cracking unit if you want to make safely refined gasoline and similar products. What you need to do is make sure to take care of these units if you have some in a warehouse or somewhere similar. You must keep a close eye on them because they can sometimes sustain damage during the gasoline refinement cycle. With these units, you’ll have refractory linings in the major vessels and transfer lines. If you look at them after heavy use, you may uncover damage. You can expect that with heavier use unless you examine these units after each refinement process. You must appoint an expert who can examine your FCCUs regularly. That way, you do not risk any costly and dangerous equipment malfunctions. How Can You Repair a Damaged FCCU? If you do see that you have a damaged FCCU, you’ll need to stop gasoline production while you repair it. Once you start learning about these units, you’ll soon find that they have six major components, any of which can potentially sustain damage with heavy use. The six components include the distribution rig, your overhead lines, the slide valves, the internal cyclones we discussed earlier, the regenerator, and the reactor itself. They’re all delicate and costly. If you look at your FCCU and see damage, you’ll need to bring in a company to repair it. Such companies do exist, but you’ll want to locate one that has an excellent industry reputation. You’ll also want one that does not charge an exorbitant price. When you look at an FCCU repair company’s website, you’ll want to see some evidence that they can do the job right. You might look for former client recommendations. You’ll also want to see what training their technicians received. Anyone who examines and tries to fix your FCCU must know what they’re doing. If they don’t, and they’re only faking their credentials, they might make the situation worse and endanger your workers. They can also cost you more production time if they make the unit worse instead of better. What Else Do You Want from Your FCCU Repair Company? When you contact a company to repair your FCCU, you’ll also want one that knows about all the potential problems that these units can develop as time passes. For instance, the company you hire should know how to fix a unit with silica mitigation issues or independent anchoring system problems. You might want a company that can do some IDA and stud welding. You may need hexavalent chrome mitigation instead. Some businesses that do this kind of refinement need hydro-demolition, so the company you hire should know all about that as well. You should know very quickly when you talk to a company representative whether this business entity can repair your FCCU and get it up and running again. They’ll know all the appropriate terminology and have the latest tools and techniques mastered. You can’t fake this knowledge. Additional Requirements As you’re narrowing down the list regarding who should repair your faulty or damaged FCCU, you’ll need to think about availability as well. Maybe someone in your area can fix your FCCU, but they have a long wait time because they’ve got other clients in line ahead of you. That probably won’t work for you. Remember that as a refinery or an entity that uses FCCUs, you probably want to get back to work as soon as possible. If you have to wait weeks for the repairs and new components you need, that won’t do you much good. The repair company you hire should also have the parts you need on hand. If they need to wait for weeks to get someone to ship them those parts, you’ll probably have to go with someone else. Finally, you should establish a rapport with the company you hire. You and the techs they send over won’t be best friends, but they need to have a positive attitude. If you get someone surly who doesn’t seem to want the job, that won’t work. You’re giving this company an opportunity and probably paying them well to get your FCCU up and running again. They should appreciate that and respect you. If they don’t, you should go with another company that can give you prompt service, a fair price, and also has excellent customer service and response time. Once you find a company to service your FCCUs, you might use them for many years to come. If you’re constantly using those FCCUs for refining, you’ll likely need service for them periodically.  You can call the entity you use and get them to send someone every time you need that service. Your two companies can benefit from each other over the years.

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Ensuring Your Building Fully Maximises Renewable Energy

With the threat of climate change being high, many people want to help in their own way. As a building owner, you are in an excellent position to make significant changes to your building. The general opinion is that integrating these innovations into the building can get expensive. However, modern technology can allow the addition of renewable tech easily. Here are some tips on how to do it. Solar energy The easiest way to integrate when it comes to renewables is solar energy. First, there is the use of passive solar energy. It refers to the indirect usage of the sun as an energy source. For example, you can consider adding more natural lighting to your building as a passive use of solar energy. Instead of paying for interior lights, you can install bigger windows and mirrors for better daylight lighting that can save you a lot of money. Another passive use is solar heating through better insulation and intelligent positioning of windows. This approach can be a big help during the summer months. For a more active use of solar energy, there is the installation of solar panels for the building. It should be easy to find a solar company in Manchester that can do the installation for those based in the area. It is a great way to use the rooftop space if you don’t have a penthouse. In addition, the electricity your panels can generate will cut down on the external energy consumption of your building. Wind energy Another easily accessible renewable method for a building is wind energy. Natural ventilation through the use of wind catchers can be a good alternative to mechanical ventilation and even air conditioners. If you position them in the right places, your building will always feel like it has fresh air moving through it. A building still in the design stage could also use clever design for better air movement. For example, large spaces connected to hallways naturally draw in the air so that you can encourage natural movement. For example, you can place an atrium in the direction of prevailing winds. This position allows the surrounding spaces to have cold air because of the windows while warmer air collects in the atrium. The temperature difference then encourages the hot air to spread out into the nearby space while the colder air rushes in. Geothermal energy While many think geothermal energy requires a nearby volcano or hot spring, the earth’s natural properties can provide some renewable energy. It is because the temperature below ground is much different from above it. Using a heat pump, you can pump in cold air to push warmer underground air to heat a building. You can also do the opposite with hot air passing underground and dispersing its higher temperature so you can cool a building. It takes some planning, but this approach can help reduce HVAC costs a lot. Final thoughts Adding renewable energy to your building is not as complex as it initially appears. The pointers above should give you an idea of integrating renewables into your building’s systems. You can assure yourself that you are doing your small part in fighting climate change.

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How Technology Is Aiding In The Rehabbing of Historic Architecture

Technology is often blamed for destroying historic architecture, but in some cases, it can be used to help preserve and restore these buildings. In this article, we will discuss how technology is being used to aid in the rehabilitation of historic architecture. We will also discuss the benefits of using technology in this restoration project. Helping To Preserve Our Cultural Heritage Rehabilitating historic architecture is a necessary process that helps preserve our cultural heritage. Historic buildings are a valuable part of our built environment and represent an essential part of our collective history. By rehabilitating these buildings, tech expert Mark Stiffler believes we can maintain their architectural integrity and ensure that they will be able to stand for future generations. The rehabilitation of historic architecture also positively impacts the local economy. It can create jobs, revitalize communities, and attract tourists. In addition, the reuse of existing buildings can help to reduce our carbon footprint and conserve natural resources. Therefore, the rehabilitation of historic architecture is a necessary process that helps preserve our cultural heritage. Technology Makes Rehabilitation Easier And More Affordable While many challenges are involved in rehabilitating historic buildings, technology has made many aspects of the process easier and more affordable than ever before. For example, advances in laser scanning and 3D modeling have made it possible to create accurate digital representations of existing structures. This data can be used to develop virtual reality simulations that allow stakeholders to explore different design options and make informed decisions about the project’s direction. In addition, new construction techniques and materials have made it possible to replicate or restore original features with greater precision and at a lower cost than ever before. As a result, technology has played a vital role in ensuring that our shared heritage can be preserved for future generations. Using 3D Printing To Create Replicas Tech expert Mark Stiffler noticed that 3D printing could be used to create precise replicas of missing or damaged architectural elements. This technology can create detailed models of complex shapes, which can then be used to develop full-scale prototypes. Additionally, 3D printing can make molds for casting, which can be used to create exact replicas of the original piece. This process can be used to repair or replace missing or damaged pieces of architecture, such as statues, columns, or other ornamental elements. In addition, 3D printing can be used to create customized facades or other factors that are not readily available. As a result, this technology offers a versatile and precise solution for creating missing or damaged architectural elements. The Use Of Drones In Historic Architecture One of the most exciting applications of technology in historical architecture is the use of drones. Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that can be equipped with a variety of cameras and sensors. They have been used extensively recently to capture detailed images and video footage of hard-to-reach places. This data can then create accurate three-dimensional models of buildings or sites. In the past, this type of data would have been complicated and expensive to obtain. However, thanks to drones, it is now possible to gather this data quickly and affordably. This information can help plan and execute rehabilitation projects more accurately and precisely. CAD Software Easily Creates Plans And Drawings Architects and engineers frequently use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed plans and drawings for construction projects. However, CAD software can also help restore old buildings to their original condition. By creating a 3D model of the building, CAD software can be used to identify areas that need to be repaired or rebuilt. In addition, CAD software can be used to create accurate plans for restoration work, which can help to ensure that the work is carried out correctly and that the finished product closely resembles the original building. As a result, CAD software can be a valuable tool for those undertaking the challenging task of restoring an old building. Conclusion Rehabilitating historic architecture is a necessary process that helps preserve our cultural heritage. However, it can be difficult and expensive, especially when done correctly. Thankfully, technology has made many aspects of the rehabilitation process more accessible and more affordable than ever before. For example, computer-aided design (CAD) software can be used to help restore old buildings to their original condition. Additionally, drones can capture detailed images and video footage of hard-to-reach places. Technology can preserve our shared heritage for future generations.

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Top Five Evergreen Trees for Landscaping

Landscaping covers an array of different features when it comes to gardening, including flower beds, fences, walkways, fountains and much more.  In particular, evergreen trees are a must-have when it comes to landscaping. They offer a vibrant display of rich, green-coloured foliage that can be greatly enjoyed through every season, but especially during the long winter months. Throughout the year, evergreens can provide beautiful blossoms, delicious fruit, and a shelter for wildlife, as well as protecting your landscape from the varying weather conditions.  There are many factors to consider when choosing the right evergreen tree for your garden. Consider how tall and wide you would like the evergreen to grow, the speed you would like it to grow, and the purpose for your choice of evergreen tree. Evergreen trees vary greatly, so read below to find out about the top five out of many evergreen trees for landscaping. 1. Leyland Cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii) Growth Rate: Up to 3 or 4 feet per year Location: Full sun to partial shade The Leyland Cypress is an excellent, exceptionally fast-growing evergreen which will thrive in most conditions. The perfect evergreen if you are looking for an upright hedge that is easy to maintain with its soft foliage. It can grow to be around 50 feet in 15 years.  2. Thuja Green Giant (Thuja standishii x plicata) Growth Rate: Up to 3 feet per year Location: Full sun to 50% shade  The Thuja Green Giant provides an excellent, exceptionally fast-growing evergreen for homeowners looking for privacy, beauty, and easy care and maintenance. This exceptional evergreen is also perfect for protection from all weather conditions and elements. This evergreen can grow as tall as 20 feet in just a few years.  3. Columnar Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica ‘Glauca Fastigiata’) Growth Rate: Up to 1 foot per year Location: Full sun The Columnar Blue Atlas Cedar is a beautiful, tall evergreen tree which can be grown as a grand backdrop to any landscape or driveway. This fast-growing evergreen is narrower than other cedar trees as branches grow upwards and can grow as tall as 15 feet within 10 years.  4. Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) Growth Rate:  Up to 1 foot per year Location: Full sun The Ponderosa Pine is a large, native tree of North America, and is an excellent choice for a larger landscape, usually growing to at least 12 feet tall. This style of evergreen is suited to and most frequently grown in more relaxed spaces, such as along the coast or in the countryside.   5. Castle Wall ® Blue Holly (Ilex x meserveae) Growth Rate: Up to 2 feet per year Location: Full sun to partial shade The Castle Wall ® Blue Holly is an ideal choice for hedging, usually growing anywhere from 6 feet to 15 feet tall, and around 3 feet wide. This wonderful evergreen can be left to branch out as a hedge, or delicately trimmed and displayed to suit your taste.  The type of evergreen you choose for your garden will depend on your individual needs. Make sure you consider your options carefully and reach out to experts for advice if needed.

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9 Great Ways to Upgrade Your Deck Area

If your deck area is becoming a little bland, it may be time to spice it up with some upgrades. A majority of the options in this article are inexpensive and straightforward to implement. So you can have your deck area transformed in a matter of days to weeks if you put in the work. Then, you’ll have the ultimate hangout space in your backyard.  Add Plants Give the space life by adding plants to some of the bare spots on your deck. For example, consider installing some planters around the edges, placing large pots near the posts, and getting some hanging baskets if possible.  Depending on your gardening capabilities, you should plant various flower breeds around the deck to showcase an array of colors. However, stick with leafy plants, succulents, and bushes if you want a simple look with low maintenance. Decorations Customizing with outdoor decorations turns a house into a home, and you can upgrade your deck by showcasing your style. First, if you have outdoor furniture, get some cute pillows. Then, get some hanging decor for the railings.  If you have difficulty finding decor for your deck, hobby stores usually offer it in just about any style. However, you can also order online to save money and expand your options. Restain the Wood Over time, the color of your deck will fade to grey. Additionally, parts of it may turn an unsightly, slimy green from excess moisture and algae buildup. So if your deck looks a little dull, it may be time to power wash and restain it to look brand new. Install a Pergola Pergolas are wooden lattice structures that provide shade without completely blocking the sunlight. Installing one will give your deck a unique creative style that simultaneously provides comfort.  To make the ultimate hang-out spot under the pergola, you’ll need some comfortable furniture, pillows, and an outdoor rug. Then, hang a string of lights around the perimeter to create a relaxing vibe at nighttime.  Expand Your Deck Adding another level can create extra space if your deck is too small for your needs. So whether you’re seeking a private place to relax, more room to party, or a spot to build an outdoor kitchen, adding another level to your deck creates endless potential.  However, this task is meant for professionals who know how to maintain your deck’s structural integrity while building. Deck builders in Harford County, MD, can safely create the deck of your dreams. Therefore, you can ease your mind knowing that you won’t sacrifice quality.  Add Some Lights Lighting plays an essential role in setting the mood. So if you wish to switch up the vibe on your deck, you should switch up the lighting. This upgrade can be enough to totally transform the space, creating a fun place to hang out on summer nights.  The trend is to use strings of lights above the deck space, but you should also consider bug-repelling torches, candles, and even lamps on each post. Additionally, get creative with the lighting by finding decorations that double as lamps. Install a Bar Having a bar at home can make your house the go-to for every get-together. First, you’ll need a counter with plenty of storage underneath and another behind the bar to display alcohol. Then, get a few barstools to complete it. Finally, consider adding a few beer taps if you want to go the extra mile.  Screens Several types of screens can serve as valuable upgrades for your deck. For example, a small, wooden privacy structure can also serve as a place for climbing plants to grow, adding to your deck’s visual appeal.  On the other hand, adding a bug screen around the deck can turn the space into a sunroom, so you can still relax outside without worrying about pests or the elements ruining the area. Plus, this can double as a privacy screen, allowing you to relax without interruption from neighbors. Multipurpose Storage If your deck is cluttered with random junk, it may be time for a clean-up. Once you’ve gone through your things, set them aside and build some multipurpose storage units. For instance, you could build benches with a lifting seat. Or you can use a microwave cart with drawers to hold gardening supplies and act as a display for your favorite plants.  Conclusion Your deck space holds much potential, and your home may not feel complete if you aren’t using it to its fullest advantage. So implementing some of these upgrades can totally transform the area into the perfect hangout spot. Ensure that you conduct adequate research before starting a DIY project and hire a contractor when you’re not qualified to complete the task safely.

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