Sealants and adhesives retailer SPC Supplies has seen its online sales rise by 700% during the UK national lockdown, following unprecedented demand from domestic households. The company, which primarily supplies materials to commercial businesses and contractors has shipped a record number of domestic orders this quarter, as homeowners around the
Air conditioning systems go a long way in improving comfort and air quality in indoor settings, homes, and commercial premises. The AC helps you beat the heat in summer, making your indoor environment more pleasant to be in. However, not all air conditioning systems work the same. On this note,
In today’s world, beyond the beautiful products and services that you might be selling, customers are also interested in world-class amenities at your business premises, such as parking lots and walking pathways. A cracked, bulging parking lot would be detrimental to your company’s reputation. For instance, during summer, the parking
National wholesaler TF Solutions has become the latest addition to the REFCOM Elite Supplier scheme. Part of the BSS Group, which is a BESA affiliate member, TF Solutions joins just as REFCOM is celebrating receiving the Industry Initiative of the Year award at the ACR News Awards for the scheme.
Sometimes, the cost of having the right structure is taking down the wrong one. In light of that, construction companies, real estate agencies, and general contractors understand the importance of commercial demolition companies. Aside from heavy-duty demolition, many of these setups are actively into the cleanup of construction sites. In
When it comes to designing the bathroom it’s all in the detail. Having your very own spa-like oasis is a luxury that many people dream of and with the right decorative touches and features, you can achieve this in just a few key steps. From the materials through to the
I could give you a hundred ways to make a germaphobe cry. But none would probably be as devastating as forcing one to use a public restroom. It would probably take a special kind of emergency to make a germaphobe even consider using one. And just when he made his
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The British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) has launched its COVID-19 restart & rebuild strategy, incorporating three specific strands of support to help members out of lockdown. The strategy has been designed to provide guidance and support to members in three ways; firstly, helping those individuals working for BALI members
The employee-owned packaging company recently announced the design and supply of a new protective face visor for the NHS which saw them supplying several hospital trusts in the West Midlands. The company has also offered further support to organisations that had limited access to PPE yet were supporting front line
Sealants and adhesives retailer SPC Supplies has seen its online sales rise by 700% during the UK national lockdown, following unprecedented demand from domestic households. The company, which primarily supplies materials to commercial businesses and contractors has shipped a record number of domestic orders this quarter, as homeowners around the UK take on DIY and garden projects. “These last few months have been really testing for businesses across every industry, and to have so much interest in our products at a time that could have been really difficult for us has been amazing,” said Henry Blunt, Sales and Marketing Manager at SPC Supplies. In the weeks since national lockdown was introduced at the end of March, SPC have seen a surge in customer orders for products designed for paving, patios and decking projects in particular, as people across the UK make the most of the warm weather and take on garden DIY. “The uptake has really been nationwide so we’ve taken on additional freight firms in England, Scotland and Wales to make sure we meet the extra demand, and to allow us to continue to provide unrivalled levels of customer service,” Henry continued. SPC Supplies is owned by SD Sealants, the UK’s leading sealant and cosmetic repairs company headquartered in Caldicot, Wales. “We could not be happier with the increased interest we’ve received in SPC Supplies since the lockdown began. We’re very fortunate to have had such a successful few months and on top of that its fantastic to see so many people taking on DIY jobs at home, as well as commercial businesses slowly regaining momentum with their construction projects,” Managing Director of SD Sealants, Nick Jones, commented. SPC Supplies has over 40 years’ experience in the adhesive and sealants sector. As an official Sika UK retailer, SPC holds a unique understanding of the needs of a wide range of construction industries, offering expert product knowledge and a 24-hour delivery service.
Air conditioning systems go a long way in improving comfort and air quality in indoor settings, homes, and commercial premises. The AC helps you beat the heat in summer, making your indoor environment more pleasant to be in. However, not all air conditioning systems work the same. On this note, a portable AC can be more beneficial in various ways compared to split systems and central air conditioning units. For instance, it is a more energy-efficient option in instances where cooling for only one room is needed. Moreover, some come with additional functionalities such as dehumidification, not forgetting that the unit fits better in smaller spaces and can be used on-the-go, say in travel trailers. In other words, a portable AC unit can be the perfect choice in many situations. It is, however, worth noting that not all mobile ACs are the same either. When choosing a portable air conditioner, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you are making the right investment decision. Some of these may include factors such as size, type, capacity, energy consumption, features, noise levels, drainage, and programmability. But then again, why should you invest in a portable cooling unit in the first place? How do you choose a good one? To answer these burning questions, here are some of the benefits of portable air conditioners and how to pick the perfect one for your needs. Portable AC Benefits Among others, some common benefits of having a portable AC include: 1. Great Convenience If you live in an apartment building, there’s a big chance that they won’t allow you to install your own AC. The same case applies to HOA’s, building regulations, and many city ordinances. The good thing about portable ACs is that they don’t require physical installation. They come as a standalone unit and thus won’t protrude outside your home’s window or structure. What is more convenient is that you can easily relocate it to another room in your home or business premises depending on your needs. As earlier mentioned, people who travel with camper vans and travel trailers can find a portable AC really useful. 2. Fit Well In Smaller Spaces For those living in a smaller space, especially apartments, portable air conditioners are the perfect solution. This is specifically because no permanent installation is required, so the set up can be really quick and easy. They will also not take much of your window space, meaning that you don’t have to sacrifice your precious views and natural light. 3. Cost-Effectiveness Apart from cooling your home and making it comfortable, a portable AC can also help cool your energy bills. Unlike a central AC, which has to keep running to cool the entire house or building, a portable AC will only cool the room where it is placed. This means that even if you have a whole-house air conditioning system, you can turn it off and switch to the portable AC whenever you need cooling for only one room. In line with the HVAC energy efficiency changes we’ve seen over the past few years, this can help to significantly lower your energy bills, saving you hundreds of dollars or more by the end of the year. With the energy costs soaring almost every minute, homeowners are increasingly turning to this trick for relief. 4. Cooling On-the-Go As had been hinted earlier, a portable AC also makes a great cooling alternative for campers, RVs, and travel trailers. Yes, some of these mobile dwelling units come with inbuilt air conditioning systems, but they may not always be reliable. If you’re a frequent vacationer, camper, digital nomad, or recreational traveler, you can never go wrong with investing in a portable air conditioning unit. 5. Cooling + Dehumidification from A Single Unit Those who live in humid regions will appreciate this benefit most. Many portable air conditioners of this day come with an added dehumidifier feature, which allows the unit to reduce humidity in the room while providing cool air. While beating the heat, your indoor air will also be fresh and drier. It helps keep your family safe from allergies and other health risks associated with high moisture levels in your home or space. Some models allow you to choose between cool-only and dehumidify only modes, making it even more convenient. How to Choose the Right Portable AC The best portable AC for your needs will largely depend on your needs. In most cases, this will be determined by the size of your space/home, your budget, and personal preferences. Some factors to consider when picking an Ac may include the following: Type There are two main types of portable air conditioning units. These include the single-hose and the dual hose units. While both of them work almost the same, the dual-hose unit is more advantageous since it doesn’t cause negative pressure when cooling your home, making it more energy-efficient. Cooling Capacity/BTU A higher BTU rating means a higher cooling capacity. The unit can cool a larger space. Before buying your portable AC, make sure it is the right one for the space that needs cooling. Size and Energy Efficiency Modern portable air conditioning units come with features that make them highly efficient in terms of energy consumption. A programmable thermostat, for instance, is a must-have these days when shopping for a cooling unit. Always ensure you have enough space for the unit to fit in the location you want it to cool. Noise Levels Some portable ACs can be extremely noisy when operational. Although most of the units on the market produce a noise range of between 48 dB to 60 dB, always go for a quieter unit. Other Features to Look For In addition to these, other factors you may want to look for when picking a portable Ac include: Remote control Portability (weight, rollers, and handles) Drainage system Heating function Dehumidifier function Multiple fan settings And there you have it. A portable AC is the best thing you can invest
In today’s world, beyond the beautiful products and services that you might be selling, customers are also interested in world-class amenities at your business premises, such as parking lots and walking pathways. A cracked, bulging parking lot would be detrimental to your company’s reputation. For instance, during summer, the parking lot will be dusty, and customers won’t appreciate that. Likewise, no one would want to struggle with mud and pools of dirty water during a rainy period. Hiring commercial paving services for industrial paving can help you enhance the appeal of your commercial premises, which will help you attract and retain more customers. Besides turning away customers, dilapidated parking lots and pathways increase the liability risks of your business. You don’t want to be tied to multiple compensation claims simply because lawyers have higher grounds of proving negligence on your side. In that regard, it helps if you take the necessary steps now than to regret it in the future. So, why should you hire commercial paving services to put your parking lot and pavements in shape? Well, we have the following reasons for you: Prepping the area If you’d want to do it differently, it will force you to hire different contractors, which is expensive in the long run. Moreover, prepping the area would require a lot of work and will need professionals who can leverage machine work to do it perfectly. Moreover, based on your premises location and requirements, commercial paving contractors can offer excellent recommendations for a durable, long-lasting infrastructure. Put an end to constant pothole repairs. Necessary regulations and construction standards As noted earlier, dilapidated infrastructure in your company’s premises can be an avenue for liability lawsuits. An experienced contractor knows both your state’s regulations and provisions involved in designing, constructing, and repairing commercial parking lots and pavements. This includes mandatory parking space for people with disabilities and any other important accessibility feature that must comply with safety measures. Consequently, you’ll have saved yourself liability responsibility for any accident that might happen within the premises. Timely completion of projects Professional paving contractors have the machinery and the resources to get the job done within the agreed time-frame. While completion time needs may vary from one commercial building to another, you would still want someone who honors the commitment of getting the job done as stipulated in the contract. You will also need nothing but quality work to cut down operational costs and allow the business to resume as soon as possible. Design versatility There are various pavement designs to choose from based on budget, preference, or requirements from the local authority. Getting a professional that is well-versed in your town area will see to it that you gate more design options on your plate to match your needs and expectations. Environment-friendly Just like safety regulations, professional pavers know the environmental impact that a poorly completed project can have on the building and neighboring community. For instance, professionals will ensure meticulous water drainage systems to eliminate water runoff pollution. Moreover, some local authorities may even give you tax incentives if your parking lot and pavements enhance a greener world. Warranty for labor and materials Lastly, you might want to work with someone who gives you warranty for materials and labor for a few years, protecting you from unnecessary repair costs. Professional paving contractors will inspect your pavements and parking lots during the warranty period because they are confident in what they do. Moreover, if there is an issue listed in the contract, you’ll get free, speedy repair that will not interrupt your business’s normal running. Get the right professional paving contractor today to estimate your project’s cost, and you’ll never regret putting your business premises in shape!
National wholesaler TF Solutions has become the latest addition to the REFCOM Elite Supplier scheme. Part of the BSS Group, which is a BESA affiliate member, TF Solutions joins just as REFCOM is celebrating receiving the Industry Initiative of the Year award at the ACR News Awards for the scheme. The refrigeration and air conditioning distributor is the latest supplier to be audited and accredited as an Elite Supplier in line with REFCOM’s ambition to encourage all parts of the supply chain to voluntarily commit to the highest professional standards. REFCOM Elite is a best practice company registration scheme that has been running since 1994 to promote environmentally responsible refrigerant management and compliance with the latest industry legislation. Head of REFCOM Graeme Fox said the Elite Supplier scheme was set up so that responsible suppliers could help ensure that only properly qualified and registered companies were accessing refrigerant gas and equipment in line with the F-Gas Regulation. Unscrupulous “This scheme means suppliers have a way of demonstrating that they have signed up to a voluntary code of conduct that will level the playing field across the supply chain,” said Mr Fox. “This will also free up resources so the enforcing authorities are better able to police and clamp down on irresponsible online or unscrupulous sales to non-registered installers.” He said TF Solutions was a welcome addition to this “exclusive club” who had demonstrated to REFCOM’s independent inspector that they were working to the highest standards. TF Solutions commercial director Andy Reed said his company was happy to be “an early adopter” demonstrating support for the improved professional standards championed by the REFCOM scheme. “TF Solutions has always focused on providing our customers with the best service; so we felt that it was only right that we, as a leading national wholesaler, should participate and uphold the highest values and standards,” he said. “Supporting the F-Gas Regulation will be vital if the industry is to achieve its environmental and climate change goals and REFCOM’s Elite programme is playing a crucial role,” said Mr Reed.
Sometimes, the cost of having the right structure is taking down the wrong one. In light of that, construction companies, real estate agencies, and general contractors understand the importance of commercial demolition companies. Aside from heavy-duty demolition, many of these setups are actively into the cleanup of construction sites. In this article, the subject of why demolition companies are hired will be discussed. However and as explained here, let’s first look at the roles of these companies. What Do Commercial Demolition Companies Do? The name is definitely self-explanatory. These companies are into all sorts of demolition. Here, we are talking about assignments ranging from taking down small buildings to large ones. Depending on the company and task faced with, the strategies can be manual or with heavy-duty machines. Even in this day and age, the manual approach to demolition can come in handy in dealing with little and integral parts of the building. A good example will be the demolishing of a small portion of a large edifice that is to remain intact. Considering that the company may not be able to use heavy-duty pieces of machinery without affecting other parts, the use of manual labor can come in very handy. Although not restricted to these, the major reason for demolition is usually down to reconstruction and new development. If you want more information on the kinds of machines used by these companies, you can read this article. Other than the functions stated, lots of these companies play a huge part in obtaining pertinent paperwork. This is because an operation of such magnitude can cause inconveniences for other residents of the area. This can include noise, the release of toxins into the air among other things. To ensure that things are done properly, there are regulatory bodies that oversee and give permissions. Furthermore, functions such as rodent baiting, drafting out safety plans for construction sites, and removal of dangerous materials are some of the other functions carried out by these setups. Why Do We Need the Services of Demolition Companies? Let’s start by emphasizing how constructions are made to be last as long as forever. When a structure is built, there are no plans to do away with it at a later date. As a result, when such a need eventually arises, it must be carried out by top-notch professionals. This is to avoid the dangerous possibilities that come with the act. Considering this, let us look at some reasons why the services of a professional demolition company may be required. Efficiency When the subject is about pulling down structures for any number of reasons, two things are important. First, it has to be carried out in good time. This is because most times, the commencement of subsequent construction works are dependent on the timing of the demolition. Until the process is effectively carried out, every other thing is brought to a standstill. As a result, the manual or mechanical procedure must be done in good time. This clearly will help the contractors deliver right on time. Secondly, the job must be inch-perfect. Little wonder the amount of scrutiny regulatory bodies channel toward this procedure. For the record, the process is not just about pulling or tearing down a previously constructed structure. This must be executed effectively. This means that the precision with which the demolition is carried out should be such that it causes no harm to any other structure around. After the tearing down, the debris and torn-down construction materials should be discarded and recycled properly. This can only be done by professionals trained and skilled in the act. Steering Clear of Danger Imagine the possibility of a weight of bricks crashing down on a person. Hey, carrying out these jobs is serious work. It is no child’s play. This is because it comes with a lot of dangers. To ensure a high level of safety and proper construction proceedings, hiring the right demolition company is not up for debate. Other than accidents that can happen on-site, other things have to be put in place and done accordingly. An example is how construction debris is handled. These wastes should be disposed of in the right way. This way, the chemical toxins, and other hazards people may be exposed to are dealt with. The Right Tools for the Job Frankly, this is one of the main reasons for engaging the services of these companies. Aside from the efficiency with which they work, they have the right kinds of tools and equipment. As a result, they can deal with seemingly impossible situations. Realistically, some jobs can only be carried out with heavy-duty machines. These companies have different sorts that can attend to different demolition tasks. Furthermore, they have trained hands that can put these machines to use. Dealing with Debris and the Aftermath of a Demolition As stated earlier, what demolition companies do is way more than tearing and pulling down. The torn down structure has to be discarded in the right way. Whichever way this is done, it should not contravene environmental and safety standards. For example, what happens if you dispose of the debris in a dam? This is unhygienic and calling for trouble from the authorities. As a result, these companies know exactly how to dispose of the debris. They know items that should be recycled, reused, reduced, and completely disposed of. Getting Things Right for Regulatory Oversight The jobs of these companies play out at various points in construction. As against the belief that they are only given to demolition, they help at other points in construction. For instance, they can be consulted to effectively clear out the site before any bit of construction is carried out. This way, every worker is safe from potential hazards. Ideally, this is the appropriate way to go about construction. It is dangerous to let workers into areas that have not been inspected by these companies. Haven established this, these companies are very essential in filing paperwork for construction permission
When it comes to designing the bathroom it’s all in the detail. Having your very own spa-like oasis is a luxury that many people dream of and with the right decorative touches and features, you can achieve this in just a few key steps. From the materials through to the finishing touches, you can create the bathroom of your dreams with luxurious aesthetics that make it one of your favourite rooms in the home. Unique Features Just like the kitchen, living room and bedroom you want your bathroom to have unique features that make it such a dreamy space. One of the main features that transforms a simple bathroom into a place of luxury is a smart shower. This modern addition turns showering into a relaxing experience, giving you control over everything from temperature through to ease of use. This unique addition is also ideal for making life a little easier too, from being able to control the shower from your mobile giving you much more freedom when it comes to heating the water, turning the shower on and much more. Another must-have feature within a luxurious bathroom is music. Introducing a quality set of speakers to your bathroom will give you the ultimate calm, relaxing experience when bathing or simply getting ready. There’s nothing quite like having your favourite artists playing out loud whilst you go through your own home-spa rituals, turning your bathroom into your very own relaxation spot. Image Source: Aqualisa Quality Materials From the tiling in the shower to the flooring choices, the materials you choose to use within your bathroom will have a huge impact on how luxurious the space feels. You want to introduce quality materials that look the part, as well as adding durability and longevity at the same time. Do some research into the materials that catch your eye, from tiles and stone to marble and granite and find out which really work for the space you have. Quality Materials From the tiling in the shower to the flooring choices, the materials you choose to use within your bathroom will have a huge impact on how luxurious the space feels. You want to introduce quality materials that look the part, as well as adding durability and longevity at the same time. For instance, shower wall panels can work with the tiling and flooring to create a rich and magnificent bathroom. Choosing panels that blend nicely with the other features is important. An eye-catching pattern or subtle marble effect can help the shower panel feel an integral part of any luxurious bathroom. But just as crucial, is ensuring the panels are made of long lasting materials. It is worthwhile getting panels professionally installed to ensure they are sealed properly. Do some research into the materials that catch your eye, from tiles and stone to marble and granite and find out which really work for the space you have. From the tiling in the shower to the flooring choices, the materials you choose to use within your bathroom will have a huge impact on how luxurious the space feels. You want to introduce quality materials that look the part, as well as adding durability and longevity at the same time. Do some research into the materials that catch your eye, from tiles and stone to marble and granite and find out which really work for the space you have. Image Source: Crown Tiles Stylish Furniture Introducing the right furniture pieces to your bathroom will ensure your space works for you. In order to have luxury you need a space that you can get the most out of, resulting in somewhere you can go and spend quality time relaxing, winding down and recharging. It’s important to have a stylish sink, toilet, shower and bath for those with the option, to draw the space together and ensure it’s comfortable as well as attractive. With so many beautiful bathroom furniture pieces available, you can find some stunning pieces to enhance your bathroom and bring that touch of luxury to your home. The Right Atmosphere Creating a space that you can use to escape in your own home is a huge benefit, especially after a long hard day. You want to capture a warm, relaxing atmosphere that enables you to wind down and relax, properly. Whilst the design of your bathroom will help to achieve this, it’s also really useful to introduce some additional features such as scented candles, diffusers and mood lighting to really help capture the right atmosphere. Once you’ve mastered the calming feel, you’ll feel blissfully relaxed and content in your bathroom, making it the perfect zen zone.
I could give you a hundred ways to make a germaphobe cry. But none would probably be as devastating as forcing one to use a public restroom. It would probably take a special kind of emergency to make a germaphobe even consider using one. And just when he made his way to the bathroom partition, he’d probably run out screaming before he could do his business. The life of a germaphobe is difficult but with society forcing us to share each other’s utility, there has to be a way to get out of all this madness. In this article you are going to have to toughen up as we talk about the things that will make your stomach churn. Somewhere over the Bathroom Partitions As the most observant of you may already notice, I am a germaphobe myself and these words speak to me more deeply than I how I take my breath before I walk into a crowd of strangers. There are two things you would always find in my bag, if they were not on my hands already and that is a bag of wet wipes and an alcohol spray. There are times that I wished that I could bathe in purell and douse myself in lysol. Except that it would kill me along with all the germs and bacteria but that did not stop me from considering it. When I was younger, when people were debating which the best romance movie character was or which player was the best, I was busy doing important work. And that was to educate my fellow kids about the dangers that germs pose. For instance, I would talk to them in length about how the ten-second rule is pure bogus. That did not stop Jeremy from eating that baloney sandwich however. That still gives me nightmares to this day. And for that reason, and my qualifications as a lifetime germaphobe crusader, I will teach you how to conquer your public restroom fears. Let us find out what is beyond those bathroom partitions. Of course, I know that I have science on my side. Not that the smell, sight, sound and everything about the public bathroom are not proof enough, but having the scientists’ backing is a big deal. Research suggests that the public bathrooms ranks among the worst places in terms of diseases that you may catch. So, yes Sheila, the public bathroom will indeed kill me. The worst discovery from that research is that the bacteria that lingers in the bathroom can remain there for months. That is more than 30 days worth of bacteria piling up upon each other in a confined space. Think about how many breaths that you take in while you are there doing your business. The paranoia is real and it is justified. The Inevitable Bathroom Partition Encounter Before we dive right into a germaphobe’s survival tactics, let us get one thing straight. Germaphobia is real and having one does not mean you are crazy. The discussion about phobia as a mental disorder is a long trip down a rabbit hole that I am not willing to get into in this article. But, for the sake of argument, let us put all of these aside for a bit. I have the worst bladder and an even more terrible digestive system. Of course that is false but, really, not by much. Having that condition meant I had to use the bathroom more than the lucky ones. And combine that with being a germaphobe means I have my work cut out for me. Because of this, I have gathered enough experience to devise surefire ways to survive your trip to the public bathroom. The real lesson here is the public bathroom is inevitable, tiny bladder or not. Everyone has to go at the most inopportune times at some point. Noone is special enough to be exempt from this predicament. The Best Bathroom Partition You are probably already convulsing over being made to choose between a wall and a hard place. So let me unstuck you. Not all public restrooms are the same and some can actually be quite decent, for a public restroom that is. As a seasoned veteran of the art of public bathroom sleuthing, I can tell you that it takes time and courage before you can hone your own skills as well. I divided public bathrooms into four categories and you will know each one as we go. The first type of public bathroom is what I call the hard-pass bathroom. Because you cannot get away fast enough away from that place. You probably already have an idea what kind of public bathroom I am talking about. Think of it like the public bathroom of public bathrooms, like the ones on a New York subway. If you could not drag yourself to use the subway, then there is no chance that you would use their bathroom and that is a fact. Consider crossing off these no-no bathrooms in your public bathroom list. Unless you are absolutely out of options, it would be better for you to just battle on until you find a better public bathroom. The second type is good enough, but not quite. These ones are what you would rather avoid if you have other choices but it would not make you convulse to be there for a minute or two. If you need to do business taking longer than that, then this bathroom is not for you. Generally, we classify bathrooms of common use but private bathrooms in this category. These include your cafeteria bathrooms, the one in movie theaters, and other similar facilities. And lastly, the public bathrooms that are worth noting are the fancy ones that take their sanitation seriously. You can be sure that you are entering one by being greeted by a strong chemical smell from the bleach and other cleaning agents. Some people do not like the smell, but if you are a germaphobe like
Mаrаthоn Sod іѕ knоwn thrоughоut Southern California in tеrmѕ of іtѕ durаbіlіtу аnd ѕресtасulаr арреаrаnсе. Thе ѕресіеѕ аrе tall fеѕсuе blеnd оf the Bаjа аnd Hubbаrd 87 varieties. Selective brееdіng hаѕ bееn іmрlеmеntеd іn the production оf mаrаthоn sod, ѕо you can еxресt оutѕtаndіng ԛuаlіtу compared tо average sod. Fоr іnѕtаnсе, when іt comes tо turf ԛuаlіtу, Hubbard 87 is thе tор 1, bаѕеd оn thе Nаtіоnаl Turfgrass Evаluаtіоn Prоgrаm, which is sponsored bу thе USDA. Bаѕісаllу, Marathon sod or ѕоd refers tо lіvіng grаѕѕ, аnd іt hаѕ dеvеlореd rооtѕ аnd fіttеd іn a ріесе оf ѕоіl, ѕо you саn ѕіmрlу place it іn уоur уаrd. In fact, you саn еffоrtlеѕѕlу рlасе ѕоd any time you wаnt, wіth the еxсluѕіоn оf wіntеr ѕіnсе the frоzеn ground саn lead to ѕеvеrаl problems. Hоwеvеr, wіth рrореr рlасеmеnt, уоu will have nо worries whеn іt соmеѕ to еnѕurіng thе lush appearance оf уоur lаwn over time. Thіѕ professionally grоwn ѕоd іѕ rather health and сараblе оf dеvеlоріng ѕtrоng rооtѕ with рrореr fеrtіlіzіng аnd watering. HОW TO HAVE AN HЕАLTHУ MARATHON SOD LАWN? If уоu wаnt tо have nice Marathon sod with luѕh green lаwn, to help you in mаіntаіnіng your grаѕѕ through рrореr mоwіng іѕ the kеу tо уоur success. Hеrе аrе ѕоmе tірѕ to help уоu оut: First and fоrеmоѕt, it’s іmроrtаnt tо understand how to mow уоur lаwn рrореrlу. Mаkе sure you аlwауѕ uѕе a hіghеr ѕеttіng, еѕресіаllу durіng thе hоt ѕummеr mоnthѕ. Nеvеr mоw tоо lоw because thіѕ саn саuѕе scalping, whісh іѕ thе numbеr one rеаѕоn whу lаwnѕ grоw unevenly. Nеvеr tаkе tоо muсh grass оff whеn сuttіng – thіѕ іѕ another bіg mіѕtаkе mаnу people mаkе. Never mow mоrе thаn a third оf thе length оf thе grаѕѕ blades. Hоwеvеr, іf you thіnk уоur lawn іѕ grоwіng ԛuісklу аnd сuttіng 1/3 оf the blаdе doesn’t ѕееm to hаvе the dеѕіrеd effect, уоu саn wаіt a fеw days аnd thеn mow аgаіn. Sоmеtіmеѕ іt’ѕ nесеѕѕаrу tо mow twо tіmеѕ a wееk tо keep your lаwn looking bеаutіful. It’s аlѕо important tо keep your mоwіng blаdеѕ vеrу ѕhаrр. If уоu mow уоur lawn wіth a dull blаdе, іt wіll tear thе еndѕ оf thе grаѕѕ instead оf cut thеm. Thіѕ сrеаtеѕ rаggеdу edges that have a tеndеnсу tо turn brоwn аnd make your lаwn lооk drіеd оut. You mау also саuѕе рrоblеmѕ with funguѕ and lawn diseases іf уоu сut wіth a dull blade. Always mоw in different dіrесtіоnѕ. Fоr іnѕtаnсе, оnе wееk mоw diagonally, the nеxt wееk mоw horizontally, аnd thе wееk after that mоw іn a vertical раttеrn. Chаngіng thе dіrесtіоn іn whісh you mоw іѕ аn еffесtіvе method оf mowing bесаuѕе іt рrеvеntѕ thе lеаnіng of grаѕѕ blаdеѕ оn уоur lawn. Nеvеr make sharp turnѕ when mоwіng уоur lawn. If уоu аvоіd turnіng уоur mоwеr sharply, уоu’ll achieve bеttеr results. Thе easiest way tо mаkе a ѕmооth turn is to use a wаlkwау, раtіо, оr drіvеwау tо turn the mоwеr. Another орtіоn іѕ tо mаkе hеаdеr ѕtrірѕ thаt turn thе mоwеr at the еnd оf еасh rоw аѕ уоu rеасh thе header. If уоu dо thіѕ уоu wіll get a nice еvеn сut – faster turns always еnd uр сrеаtіng an unеvеn appearance. USES OF MARATHON SОD Mаrаthоn sod іѕ uѕеful in a numbеr of settings. It саn be used tо beautify hоmеѕ such аѕ араrtmеnt соmрlеxеѕ аnd and tуреѕ of residential аrеаѕ. Yоu wіll аlѕо love having ѕоd in the раrkѕ аnd рlауgrоundѕ, аѕ thіѕ gіvеѕ these areas a lush and vіbrаnt арреаl. Aѕ for thе features of a marathon ѕоd, іt comes wіth a ѕtunnіng dark grееn color – аll year round. It grоwѕ аbоut 1 tо 1.5 іnсhеѕ a wееk durіng the ѕummеr, аnd a bіt ѕlоwеr grоwth rаtе іn the wіntеr with a wееklу growth оf 0.5 іnсh. Whеn it comes to the tеxturе, the width of thе lеаvеѕ is аt 1/8 tо 1/4 inch. Leaves will аlѕо арреаr narrower іn winter mоnthѕ аnd ѕоmеwhаt wіdеr in thе wаrmеr ѕummеr ѕеаѕоn.
The British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) has launched its COVID-19 restart & rebuild strategy, incorporating three specific strands of support to help members out of lockdown. The strategy has been designed to provide guidance and support to members in three ways; firstly, helping those individuals working for BALI members whose mental health may have suffered due to the virus, secondly, supporting member businesses with financial, HR and legal support, as well as professional advice for working safely whilst on site, and thirdly promoting members to clients via the BALI website to generate new leads. BALI’s Chief Executive, Wayne Grills, commented on the latest strategy, “The resilience and determination of our members to get back to work, safely and responsibly, continues to impress me. Throughout COVID-19 I have seen countless examples of ways in which members have supported each other, their local communities and frontline workers, and we owe it to them to ensure their businesses and employees are protected with professional guidance and support. That is why, today, we are announcing our latest strategy to do just that; support, promote and inspire.” The UK’s leading trade association for landscaping professionals, whose membership totals around 2,000 members across all four nations of the UK, over 900 of whom are Registered, has confirmed the strategy will be delivered under three distinct headings; people, prepare and promotion. People – Providing assistance to those individuals employed by BALI members who need help and support with issues related to COVID-19. BALI’s team at Landscape House are ready to listen and provide advice to support mental wellbeing, as well as working with industry partners who can provide expert support. Prepare – Provide guidance to help business owners, managers and supervisors prepare for a return to work scenario with free COVID-19 specific documents, templates and webinars. From HR and legal to business support; BALI will further increase the availability of free resources to help with business acumen, recruitment, marketing and advertising. Promotion – Rebuild client confidence in using an accredited landscape professional by advertising BALI on search engines and social media, centred around the key message the industry is open and trading safely. Raise awareness of BALI’s membership benefits and how they can be utilised to support businesses looking to secure new work. In May, BALI surveyed members to help identify how wide an impact the virus has had on members and their businesses and to find out how it could continue to help with guidance and support post lockdown. Highlights from the responses received include: Over half of members (53%) have partially furloughed their workforce 3% more staff working from home (51%) than those in on-site positions (48%) who are already back to work and adhering to strict social distancing measures 40% of members have seen contracts postponed and 13% cancelled Almost 40% of members reported that their company turnover will be affected for more than 12 months, with 20% reporting the hit will be more than 50% Almost 60% of members applied for funds from the Job Retention Scheme 63% of members want BALI to seek further clarity from government on ‘permitted works that are currently defined as outdoor working’ 72% of members want BALI to provide more guidance and support on ‘return to worksite-based guidance (safety measures for operatives and supervisors)’ and almost half want more help with ‘business development (marketing consideration)’. To deliver the strategy, BALI is planning to support members through COVID-19 to 31 March 2021 and beyond if required. Although the team hopes things will return to normal soon, in the meantime, they will continue to support members longer term with a continual development plan that follows government advice pertaining to COVID-19 as well as any feedback attained from members. Some of the ways BALI will deliver the new strategy: Update its COVID-19 support webpage to make it even easier for members to find those helpful documents, templates and links Update relevant COVID-19 documentation and supporting templates in line with the latest guidance for both England and Scotland Develop a Code of Principles for members and their clients Host a 60-minute HR-focused webinar with legal representation on Tuesday 16 June 2020, in conjunction with Oracle Solicitors, with more free webinars planned throughout the year BALI and Perennial will host a mental health training and awareness webinar on Friday 19 June, designed to support individuals who may be struggling to cope with COVID-19 BALI will be kicking off four informal drop-in sessions for members, online every Thursday throughout June, starting on Thursday 11 June 2020. Members can join from across the UK to share stories and catch up with team members from BALI Landscape House Launch a Google and Facebook advertising campaign in July to boost the number of client referrals to the BALI website in order to provide more leads for members listed online BALI is planning a new series of digital marketing webinars for July and August, designed to support members looking to advertise their business post COVID-19 BALI’s Register of Land-based Operations (ROLO) Health, Safety & Environmental Awareness Course is now online for Operative level, so Training Providers can sign up now to continue providing ROLO-related services. ROLO Supervisor and Manager are both anticipated to launch later in 2020 Continue publishing physical and digital copies of both Landscape News and the Who’s Who Landscape Directory to keep the membership network connected, informed and to promote members Continue lobbying on behalf of the landscape industry on critical COVID-19 related topics, as well as plant health and biosecurity issues If you are a BALI member and would like more information on the new strategy, including how you can get involved, contact the team at Landscape House on +44 (0)24 7669 0333 or email contact@bali.org.uk. For the latest information and support material for COVID-19 visit bali.org.uk/help-and-advice/covid-19-coronavirus. The portal includes helpful documents and templates that can be downloaded free of charge. Some documents may be available for BALI members only and a login will be required.
The employee-owned packaging company recently announced the design and supply of a new protective face visor for the NHS which saw them supplying several hospital trusts in the West Midlands. The company has also offered further support to organisations that had limited access to PPE yet were supporting front line workers. Across their 7 regional distribution centres in the UK, based in, Gateshead, Rotherham, Coventry, Swindon, Letchworth and Portsmouth, Kite has donated 5,000 protective face visors to a total of 108 separate organisations including care homes, hospices, charities, nursing homes, pharmacies, police stations, foodbanks and NHS workers based in the community. Several of the Kite Team went that extra mile and personally delivered many of the donated visors, observing strict social distancing of course, to ensure that the organisations could have access to vital PPE. To find out more about Kite Packaging please visit kitepackaging.co.uk.
