Category Archives: Home Improvement

Force 8 Demonstrate Roof Construction Quality With Full-Scale Model

Ever wondered if your conservatory roof has been constructed correctly or if it’s been built to last? Specialist roofing company Force 8 has constructed a full scale roof model in its Altrincham showroom so you can examine up close the sections and intricacies involved – and check for yourself if your roof is fit to weather the weather.

Plus, if you do find you need help or advice, the team at Force 8 can provide the perfect solution to suit your individual needs and budget. As the roof is the part of the conservatory most exposed to the elements, it is most likely to deteriorate first. So having a new conservatory roof fitted or just replacing old conservatory panels can make a dramatic difference to your home, safety and comfort.

Touch of glass
Glass conservatories are most people’s preference as they provide clearer views than using alternative materials, and self-cleaning glass is ideal for those hard to reach places that need cleaning regularly. For new glass conservatory roofs Force 8 uses energy efficient glass from leading manufacturers Pilkington. And Pilkington Active Blue provides improved solar control and is more energy efficient.

Alternative options
At Force 8, however, new conservatory roofs are available in both glass and polycarbonate. And new polycarbonate roofs with multi-chambered polycarbonate can give u-value as low as 0.5 w/(m²-k) and are available in a range of colours and depths.

Whether you want to replace conservatory panels, just the components, or maybe you’d like a bespoke roof designed to fit your conservatory precisely, Force 8 can accommodate all your requirements. Plus, all its bespoke conservatory roofs are produced by leading conservatory roof manufacturers Ultraframe, so quality is assured.

Via EPR Network
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Tool-Net Urges Power Tool Users To Be Safe

Nearly every home in the country has an electric drill but today the power tool experts, Tool-Net, suggested that very few users are aware of basic safety precautions that should always be taken when using their drill. Those who do not follow these precautions run the risk of having an accident that could hurt them or damage their drill.

Tool-Net highlighted the risk that loose clothing, jewellery or long untied back hair can pose. Any of these can easily be snagged in the drill as it rotates. Whilst these should be avoided safety goggles should be worn as these help prevent damage to your eyes caused by filings or shavings that are created by drilling. Whilst the heat of a drill bit can burn hands those who choose to wear gloves should make sure they are tight fitting.

The main area of risk when drilling is that caused by the drill slipping. Tool-Net outlined five simple steps that will greatly reduce this risk. First is to use a centre punch to start your drilling and to apply even pressure throughout. Second is to secure the material you are drilling in a vice. Third is to use a drill frame if you are drilling harder materials such as metal. Fourth is to make a pilot hole if you are drilling a screw into wood. The fifth rule is to always double check that the drill bit you have selected is sitting correctly and is held tightly by the chuck.

Both corded and cordless drills have specific rules that Tool-Net urged users to follows. A common way that corded drills are damaged is through careless treatment of the electrical cord which can be damaged if strained through being tripped over, used to pull a plug out of a socket or used to carry the drill itself. Cordless drills can easily be damaged if the incorrect charger is used to charge the drill or if it is charged in temperatures beyond those recommended by the manufacturer.

A Tool-Net spokesperson commented that “drills are an essential power tool and following these simple rules will help users avoid the risk of accident, injury or damage to their drill”.

Via EPR Network
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Aggreko Builds Reputation For Construction Solutions

Aggreko, the global leader in temporary power and temperature control solutions, provided a temporary heating and dehumidification package to main contractors FCC Elliott Construction to assist in the construction programme of the new 312 bed South West Acute Hospital at Enniskillen in Northern Ireland.

Aggreko initially supplied six 125 kW IDF heaters and 12 1600 KT dehumidifier packages to dry and heat the clinical and ward blocks of the new hospital – to 6C – to enable painting of the interiors. Moisture and temperature control equipment was also supplied in basement corridors to protect electrical equipment and busbars from moisture.

The temporary dehumidifiers were deployed on site in sequence to remove excess moisture from each block of the hospital. Flexible ducting took hot air from the temporary heaters to each floor, and polyducting was suspended from corridor ceilings to distribute air throughout each floor area.

Howard Sharp, Construction Director at FCC Elliott Construction, said: “Aggreko provided an effective temporary moisture and temperature control solution which is assisting us to continue to deliver this high quality healthcare facility on time and on budget. Their technical expertise and professional, high standard of service throughout the project has been invaluable on such a large, high profile scheme.”

Martin Byrne, sales manager at Aggreko, said: “It is vital that construction programmes run according to schedule, particularly on major developments, as delays can have a huge impact on project costs. Our temporary dehumidification and temperature control equipment, which is available for hire ensures the correct conditions for electrical installations and internal finishes such as paint and floor coverings, assisting contractors to deliver projects to meet their clients’ requirements.”

Via EPR Network
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Call Centre Dials In Aggreko Rental Power

Aggreko, the world leader in the provision of temporary power and temperature control services, proved the reliability of rental power when a customer’s own back-up generator failed and an alternative power supply was required urgently.

Good Fellas’ national call centre in Port Elizabeth relies heavily on consistent and reliable power to run its advanced telecommunications and IT equipment, which is in operation 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The company’s standby power plant failed during a weekly test and parts needed to repair the generator were not readily available.

Without standby power in place, the call centre was wholly reliant on power from the national grid, which had experienced power cuts in recent times. Being without a back-up power supply meant the risk of serious financial losses, so the management of Good Fellas looked for an alternative solution.

Aggreko was contracted to provide a standby generator of 60 kVA, which was installed on site immediately. Aggreko’s wide range of generators, from 10 kW up to 1250 kVA, means that customers are able to hire the exact amount of power required whenever necessary.

Jonathan Bishop, Chief Executive, Good Fellas, said: “The power package Aggreko installed was so reliable that we took the decision to continue renting from them for the long-term. The team provides fantastic support and regularly tests and maintains the equipment, ensuring we have complete peace of mind.”

Martin Foster, Country Manager, Aggreko South Africa, commented: “The upkeep and maintenance of power equipment, such as generator rental can become expensive and inconvenient for a company when power is not its core business. Aggreko takes over that responsibility, leaving our customers to get on with their day job. We look forward to growing our relationship with Good Fellas in the future.”

Via EPR Network
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Tool Company Helps Build Better Environment

Businesses generate approximately one quarter of all waste in England, according to the Department of Farming and Rural Affairs. To help reduce this figure, Tool-NET has introduced a company-wide environmental policy that targets any inefficient use of resources.

A spokesman from the company said that it is “committed to treating the environment with consideration and respect, particularly in the way it affects our staff, our customers and the local communities in which we operate.”

The most sustainable of waste management techniques is to avoid the creation of waste in the first place. With this in mind, the company does not to buy in materials for packaging its products ready for shipping, choosing instead to re-use materials from deliveries made to it.

Staff are encouraged to re-use paper whenever possible. Used paper is saved and collected by contractors for recycling, as is a variety of other unavoidable waste. Waste bins are collected for controlled disposal as required by the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

The company invites its customers to return old batteries. These are then sent out to its manufacturing suppliers for safe and environmentally friendly disposal. Tool-NET has a policy to minimize the disposal of waste electrical and electronic equipment as unsorted municipal waste and to achieve a high collection of WEE for treatment, recovery and environmentally sound disposal.

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Japanese Disaster Sparks UK Nuclear Fears

The controversial debate concerning the UK’s dependence on nuclear power has been reignited. In the aftermath of Fukushima, many UK citizens have grown doubtful of the safety of nuclear power.

Certain branches of the public have called for a re-evaluation of the UK’s safety measures in the event of a nuclear disaster. Some people are even beginning to take matters into their own hands by investing in nuclear bunkers. Online companies, like Tool-net, have noted an increase in the number of portable generators sold as people prepare for potential power cuts.

Some experts claim that the concerns are unwarranted, because the United Kingdom is not susceptible to severe earthquakes. The worst earthquake ever recorded in UK history only measured 5.75 on the Richter scale. This is comparatively mild when placed next to the 9.0 rating afforded to Japan’s disaster in March.

Approximately 15% of the United Kingdom’s electricity is supplied by 19 nuclear reactors in various locations. Nuclear meltdown at any of these reactors would leave thousands of UK citizens without electricity. This fear, when coupled with risk of radiation poisoning, has left many wondering whether the UK’s reliance on nuclear power is a good idea.

UK nuclear history has been marred by three accidents. In 2005, 20 tonnes of Uranium leaked from a cracked pipe at the Thorp nuclear processing plant. Although no radiation reached the environment, the British Nuclear Group was fined £500 000 for a breach of safety regulations.

This recent case illustrated that design errors pose as great a risk as natural disasters. Even if the UK is safe from devastating earthquakes, there is no guarantee that plants have been designed perfectly.

Many members of the public refuse to remain complacent and have chosen to protect themselves from the danger of nuclear fallout. Small portable generators, like the Clarke IG1000, can already be found in nuclear bunkers throughout Europe. The Cold War may have ended, but the fear of radiation remains as real as ever.

Via EPR Network
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Tool-NET Issues Essential Safety Tips For All Power Tool Users

Tool-NET, a leading online power tool superstore, has issued some simple safety tips that are applicable for all electrical power tool users, regardless of the country in which they are using their tools. Tool-NET’s superstore (www.tool-net.co.uk) stocks more than 6,500 power tools, gardening accessories, fixings, fastenings, ancillaries and consumables. It has customers in more than 50 countries across five continents. The essential safety tips, however, are universal for all countries and all tools.

A spokesperson commented: “When using any electric tool, there are some simple safety steps you can take that can greatly reduce any possible risks. Whether you are using a jump start kit, a drill or a Clarke FG2000 generator, by taking a few simple precautions and making some quick checks, you can stop potential accidents and get your project completed safely.”

Firstly, Tool-NET advised exercising particular caution if working near liquids or in damp conditions. This includes thinking carefully about where you store your tools. They should not be stored anywhere that is damp. Electricity and moisture can be a dangerous mix, so jobs such as washing down walls should be prepared for carefully. Electrical tools should be removed from the room and electrical sockets covered. If water is spilt over an electrical appliance, it should not be used until it has completely dried out.

Secondly, Tool-NET advised that devices such as power breakers can help prevent a tool malfunction leading to a dangerous accident. By stopping the power supply automatically, these devices make power tool use safer in all conditions, but are strongly advised if working outdoors or in damp conditions indoors.

The third essential electrical safety tip that Tool-NET offered concerns care of your tool’s electrical cord. This should be regularly checked for damage, and the tool should not be used if any is apparent. Knots in cords should be untangled immediately, because they can lead to an excessive build-up of heat and present a potential fire risk. To avoid damaging the cord, you should never carry a power tool by the cord or yank it to remove its plug from a socket. The cord’s position should be noted, as it can be a trip hazard, but also because it must not lie near sources of heat, oil or any sharp edges that could cut it (including the cutting surface of your power saw or your drill, for example).

Finally, Tool-NET advised that a power tool should always be unplugged when not in use. This will avoid any possibility of the tool being started accidentally. When servicing or changing the accessories for your power tool, always make sure first that the tool is not plugged in.

Tool-NET suggested that these simple safety tips are applicable across all electrical tools, wherever they are used and whoever is using them. Tool-NET’s spokesperson concluded: “DIY enthusiasts and professionals all use electric tools to get jobs done. Our safety tips will help them get them done safely.”

Via EPR Network
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There’s No Need To Hit The Ceiling About Problems With Your Conservatory Roof

Have your dreams of letting the sun shine in on your house been dimmed? Does the light level in your conservatory make it seem more like a cellar than a greenhouse?

If so, then one look up should reveal the source of your problems. It’s likely that your conservatory roof is past its prime, and needs replacing.

And at Force 8 Windows and Doors, we’re ready to put the light back into your life by substituting your old and discoloured glass with sparkling, new, state-of-the-art panes which will actively repel the dirt, and make your conservatory a bright spot once again.

A new conservatory roof, or just new panels fitted with the latest Pilkington Active Blue glass won’t just improve the look of your conservatory or garden room – they’ll make it feel like a completely new room.

And the latest self-cleaning glass now available from Force 8 Windows and Doors will mean no more clambering to get to those awkward to reach areas to keep them sparkling.

A glass roof is provides much greater sound insulation inside your home than traditional polycarbonate. As one of our delighted customers told us after having a replacement conservatory roof installed: “I can now hear the television in my conservatory since Force 8 replaced my old polycarbonate roof for a glass one.”

If you don’t want to be able to see the sky and the stars through your conservatory roof, but you still want to be sure of having the best possible protection from the elements, then Force 8 can also fit a bespoke new polycarbonate roof, from leading manufacturer Ultraframe.

Letting the sun and the natural light into your home is one of the great joys of having a conservatory. But you also want your house to be protected from the worst the weather can throw at it. So whether you have a conservatory, or might just be thinking about having one fitted, you can weatherproof your house, and keep it safe as well as beautiful, with the latest composite doors, stable doors or fire doors from Force 8.

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Reroof America Contractors Celebrate’s 32 Years Of Professional Roofing Service

2011 is the 32nd anniversary of Reroof America, a leading roof repair and replacement contractor with 10 offices across North America. Reroof America has a long history of customer satisfaction that dates back to its founding in 1979 and has primarily focused on the roof siding and gutter replacement for residential and commercial applications in response to weather catastrophes.

Reroof America, which began as Metro Roofing in Oklahoma City was originally active in the installation and supply wood shingles and shakes. In the mid 1980’s the company’s roofing focus is what propelled Reroof America forward and its commitment to customer satisfaction led the company to the over 50,000+ satisfied customers it has today.

Landmarks for Reroof America over the years include:
In 1995 Reroof America obtained its license to roof in the State of Florida, establishing it’s Eastern most offices. During the hurricane years of the mid 2000’s Reroof America had 4 offices in Florida and roofed thousands of homes. To this day… Reroof America stands behind every single on of its installations and warranties.

In 1998 the furthest office to the north, in Minneapolis was established. Reroof America MN LLC has itself satisfied thousands and thousand of residential and commercial customers.

In 2000, Reroof America established its furthest office to the West, Reroof America Corporation AZ, by applying for and obtaining their license in the state of Arizona and began work there. Currently Reroof America operates as Reroof America Corporation DBA Reroof America Contractors.

In 2000, Reroof America established it’s then furthest market to the south with Reroof America Contractors LA LLC, which has since to become one of the flagship offices for Reroof America employing some of the longest standing Reroof America employees.

To this day Reroof America establishes offices in conjunction with their insurance partners, the local communities, and all applicable governing organizations to provide a fundamental service to homeowners.

In fact, celebrations of this momentous occasion were held in the offices and markets where we are actively selling new work, including Reroof America MO, LLC with locations in O’Fallon MO and Raytown (KC) MO, and Topeka KS, Reroof America LA LLC, Reroof America OK LLC with two offices in Oklahoma City and two in Tulsa Oklahoma, Reroof America IL LLC, Reroof America CO, LLC, Reroof America MN, LLC and Reroof America Contractors in Arizona.

As well as the markets where Reroof America is actively selling new work, Reroof America also holds licenses and/or is registered in Virginia, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Nebraska, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Ohio, Indiana, Iowa, Texas, Tennessee and Georgia.

“Throughout the years we have worked all over the country” said Mark Lenzer, Vice President for Reroof America, “Even though we may not actively sell new work in a certain area right now, I am proud to say that we have never disconnected a phone number, and not only do we install the most protective systems available, we back them with the best warranties available in the roofing industry… anyone of our customers can call the number on their contract and get in touch with a representative from Reroof America.”

Reroof America is an established residential and commercial contractor that are authorized to install Tamko Commercial Products, GAF Low Slope Material as a GAF Master Contractor, GAF Steep Slope Material as a GAF Master Elite contractor, Owens Corning as a Perferred Contractor, Durolast Roofing as a Certified contractor, Firestone Triumph, Mulehide, MBCI Metals, Genflex PVC, Bitec Modified, Carlisle TPO, and JP Stevens PVC systems.

And in 2011, Reroof America earned the USGBC and GAF’s status as Certified Green Roofer

Over the years Reroof America has achieved numerous awards for consumer protection, installation, and training, and continues to find new and better ways to serve our customers.

“We are celebrating more than the significant milestone of doing business for 32 years,” stated JR Emrich, president and CEO of Reroof America. “We are also celebrating our customers, without whom, we would not exist” Added Mr. Lenzer, “and we are looking forward to 32 more years of a high level of customer service and satisfaction”.

Via EPR Network
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Tool-NET Trims Down Essential Garden-Strimming Considerations

The online power-tool superstore Tool-NET today claimed that there has never been a greater choice of strimmers available for customers on its site. With an ever-expanding range of strimmers on the market, Tool-NET has trimmed down the attributes of all its strimmers to offer its customers the most essential points to consider when selecting a strimmer.

A Tool-NET spokesperson commented that, “It is important that customers not only hunt down a good deal on price but also make sure they choose a strimmer model that is suitable for the jobs they have in mind”.

Tool-NET’s four essential considerations for selecting the right strimmer are: the cutting width, nylon-cord features, adjustability for comfort, and power source.

The cutting width is important because for jobs such as cutting down large overgrown areas you need greater width, whereas for precision finishing jobs, less width gives you the precision and flexibility you require. The true perfectionist should also look for a rotating head for those delicate finishing jobs.

The nylon cord is what will do the cutting. It spins at high speed and slices through the grass. If you need the strimmer to cut through thick overgrown grass and weeds, look for a model that has a double cord for the extra strength and power that this offers. Many models now feature automatic cord feeds, which mean you do not have to manually feed the cord each time it breaks – a useful time-saving device.

Height and weight are the main comfort considerations. If you are intending to be using the strimmer for long periods of time, or have back problems, think carefully about comfort. Adjustable, ergonomically designed handles are a must, and wrist supports a useful adjunct.

The weight of your strimmer is mainly determined by its power source, and there are three options here: electricity, petrol or rechargeable battery. Electric strimmers are cleaner to run than petrol ones and much easier to maintain. In addition, they are light and very easy to use. However, they do need to be near a power supply, which limits their range, and that trailing electric cord can become annoying. Petrol strimmers are favoured by professionals for offering greater power, longevity and the freedom to roam. They do, however, require regular maintenance and are heavier, noisier and smoky. If customers have a large tract of land, a petrol strimmer is strongly advised. Battery strimmers, by contrast, are only really suited to small areas and finishing jobs. They too allow you to roam free, but they only offer about 30 minutes’ battery time per charge. They are delightfully light, but not very powerful.

Taking into account these four essential points, ToolNet suggests that customers will be able to choose the right strimmer for their needs. With a hot summer forecast and more of us spending time in the garden, there has never been a better time to ensure we have the right tool for the job.

Via EPR Network
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No Excuses This Summer With Tool-NET’s Bargain Prices!

There are many things to enjoy at this time of the year: trips to the beach, ice-creams in the sunshine, barbecues, music festivals, sporting competitions, and home improvements. The latter is something that many men and women undertake over the warmer months, but often they do so with cheap, poor-quality equipment. Investing in the best gear unquestionably gives you the finest results, the safest working environment and the quickest speeds. But often DIY enthusiasts are put off by the high price of some of the top-of-the-range products and therefore make do with their cheap old tools.

Now there is a group of DIY professionals, enthusiasts and newcomers getting huge savings on the tools of their dreams. They smugly look at their friends and workmates splashing unnecessary cash as they reap the benefits. These people have discovered the discount website Tool-NET. Once you’ve bought products from here, there is no turning back.

Tool-NET stocks a huge range of the best power tools, hand tools, consumables, hardware, heaters, gardening equipment and so much more. To make sure it offers its customers the cheapest prices, the Tool-NET team continually renegotiates with manufacturers, and scours the internet and the high street to check competitors’ prices. This dedication is clear and the prices speak for themselves.

But it is not just the fact that you can buy all of this professional kit for bargain-bin prices that appeals to those in the know – Tool-NET customers also receive fantastic customer service, which leaves them wanting to come back for more.

Sometimes shoppers are put off using the internet because of the anonymity, but with Tool-NET there is a live chat feature, whereby you can ask any questions you may have to the helpful staff. Think of it as a virtual shop assistant.

Perhaps you don’t trust the picture and description that you see on the internet and you like to actually look at something in real life? With Tool-NET you get a satisfaction-or-your-money-back guarantee. A try-before-you-buy service, if you will.

Via EPR Network
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The MultiMaster – Now Available at Tool-NET

With its April collection, Tool-NET now gives its customers the chance to enjoy their favourite DIY activities with the most advanced power tools. Hundreds of new products have been added to an already extensive list of tools that are ideal for all kinds of constructions and repairs. There is a wide selection of energy generators, nail guns, air compressors and other tools to choose from, all available at affordable prices. On the top of that, you can also find on Tool-NET everything you need for summer activities such as gardening, fishing and camping.

Tame wood and steel with a MultiMaster

No job is too small or too large for a handy MultiMaster, a Fein professional tool ideal for interior fitting and renovation. As its name implies, it is a versatile tool suitable for cutting, polishing and rasping all kinds of materials. Its metal gear head can guarantee steady performance on the hardest surfaces. Few tools can be as useful as this one for the DIY enthusiast who needs something more advanced than an ordinary saw.

All DIY aficionados can find their own Excalibur with a brief look at the Tool-NET April collection, bearing in mind that modern swords do not have any kind of magical powers. Not that you cannot do magic with a new state-of-the-art MultiMaster.

Reduced prices for 100s of products

Apart from the MultiMaster, there are hundreds of existing products on offer on tool-net.co.uk at a reduced price. That means you will skip any potential rise in the price of these tools, thus saving a few extra pounds. As a matter of fact, Tool-NET makes sure, through its unique Dynamic Competitive Pricing policy, that all products are available for the best prices in the market.

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A Door of Two Halves from Force 8

The new stable door from Force 8 is revolutionary in design; the finish on the door makes it hard to distinguish it from a traditional timber door.

The Stable Door is made in two parts either the whole stable door or just the top leaf can be opened. In this way, the entire door can be shut to retain heat in the winter, or in warmer weather, the top leaf can be left open to let in light and air whilst maintaining a degree of privacy and keeping in small children or pets.

What makes the new Force 8 stable door different is that it’s fabricated in two complete half’s, with the rebate for the join built into the slab. This means there are no extra fittings needed, just the high security locking system, which include leaves with metal edges and five point locking system and two hooks. The stable doors come with adjustable hinges; the doors can be aligned horizontally and vertically so a perfect fit can be assured, particularly across the join of the two halves.

The finish offers a stunning modern take on the traditional tongue and groove design, and like all Force 8 composite doors, they are constructed to the new building regulations, which require new doors to have a U-Value of 1.8w/m2k (1.6w/m2k in Scotland) or less!

With this latest product Force 8 have establish themselves as one of the leading suppliers of composites doors in the country, and a force to be reckoned with. Part of their range includes a composite Fire Door, one of the first of its kind. The new series of doors has been designed and tested to the highest specifications (BS: 476 part 22: 1987) at the Warrington Fire Research Centre. The fire doors have been specialty designed for situations such as flats, shared entrances, or in domestic dwellings between the garage and house, where building regulations require an approved FD30 fire door. This gives the customer peace of mind, and specifiers a greater choice without having to compromise on style, and the new doors come with a full ten-year guarantee.

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Sustainable Architectural Paint and Coatings Consumer Demand Trends for 2011

As the sustainable architectural paints and coatings manufacturers and related professional contractors continue to vie for their market position in the 2011 U.S. architectural paints and coatings projected $16.4 billion in sales, their consumers are demanding more on and off line information to verify who manufactures what brand, their sustainable practices and how to sort through the non-performing manufactures and contractors online references.

The architectural paint and coating industry mergers and acquisitions have left their consumers confused as to brand identity and what they’re actually buying; they can’t determine who owns the products and if they’re following sustainable practices or not. Equally, the consumers are faced with another identity crisis with the painting contractors they find on or off line and if they’re the reputable painting contractor they claim to be.

Since January 2011, SEO Brand Management LLC, of Mesa Arizona, has been uncovering a variety of painting contractors (and contractors in general) that have changed their business names, addresses, re-directing their online assets to new online businesses or creating a volume of shill reviews to displace the derogatory references from the consumers online view, and many are on their 2nd, 3rd or 4th act of deceptive and just plain and simple fraudulent online activities.

We maintain over 50 top keyword positions in this industry with our Arizona Kelly Moore Paint kellymoorepaint.org website and field several calls a day from consumers who simply want a quality paint and painting contractor they can trust, and we’ve earned that trust with our sustainable architectural paint and coating manufacturers and professional painting contractors online search engine marketing and reputation management services; We satisfy the consumer demand of Architectural brand and contractor identity nationwide and support this with professional architectural coatings and contractor keyword optimized video marketing services for clear and concise consumer engagement.

Our 2011 stats are impressive; our Sustainable Paint and Coatings Manufacturers, Kelly Moore Paint and Glidden Professional Paints sales are growing every day. If our customers are outside of our Kelly Moore Paint service area our partnered Glidden Paint stores will match it with comparable and verified sustainable practice paint and coatings product in any Kelly Moore Paint color there is. Kelly Moore Arizona Retail stores were sold to ICI, who was acquired by AkzoNoble, which has now been acquired by Glidden; we track them all.

Our pre-screened professional Arizona painting contractors are enjoying increased business with higher keyword ranking positions supported by our professional endorsement to protect our mutually shared consumer trust and, simply the best reputable online marketing services for professional painting contractors nationwide.

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Tool-Net.co.uk Report An Early Spring In Power Tool Sales

The Easter weekend has for several years now been about more than fluffy bunnies, chocolate eggs or even religious services. For many the extended Easter break is annual DIY time – it represents a chance to get around to those jobs in the house that have been crying out for attention. Tool-Net.co.uk, an online retailer of power tools, commented today that during every year of their trading they have seen a growth in power tool sales just prior to the Easter season as people have kitted themselves out for planned DIY jobs. Tool-Net added that this year there has been an earlier surge in power tool sales and a spokesperson today suggested that this may be due to the additional Bank Holiday that has been announced for the Royal Wedding. Tool-Net suggest that this early peak in power tool sales may indicate that rather than watching the wedding at home many may be welding at home.

This year we are all being given an extra opportunity to carry out our annual batch of spring DIY due to the way that Easter falls and the Royal Wedding. The marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton on Friday April 29th allows the nation an extra day’s holiday which follows hard on the heels of our four-day Easter weekend break. This in turn is followed quickly by the May Day Bank Holiday on Monday, May 2nd. This means that this year many will enjoy a four-day week, a three-day week and then another four-day week.

Tool-Net have noticed sales of power tools to home users, rather than trade users, seem to be peaking earlier this year than in previous years and a spokesperson hypothesised that “it is possible the additional bank holiday, and the fortuitous late Easter, is really concentrating minds on the opportunity to catch up on some jobs about the house. It is also possible that more people are planning to undertake DIY this year rather than call in a tradesperson due to the continuing economic uncertainty.”

A recent survey of more than 200,000 people found that Easter was the time of year most people were likely to undertake DIY in their homes. The survey also discovered that the DIY job people are most likely to complete over the Easter break is working in the garden. This was followed by indoor DIY jobs such as laying down new flooring, replacing the bathroom suite or fitting a new kitchen. Back outdoors the laying down of a new patio or decking were also popular Easter DIY projects.

The early power tool sales this year reported by Tool-Net suggest that we are tooling up with a Makita LXT202 or a Fein Angle Grinder for an extended Easter of DIY. Rather than watching the wedding it appears many are planning to be drilling, grinding, sawing and fixing. Either that or we are all kitting out our kitchens and gardens early for celebratory wedding parties!

Via EPR Network
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Spring Means a Spring Clean with the Help of HSS Hire

As spring begins, it is time to start clearing your garden of all the unwanted winter mess which has piled up over the previous months. It’s not just the garden either, as the rest of your home is probably due a traditional ‘spring clean’, so why not let leading tool and equipment hire specialists, HSS Hire help you out?

HSS Hire, the award-winning tool and equipment hire company, has an extensive range of items to help with a wide range of indoor and outdoor tasks. From carpet cleaners to lawnmowers, ladders to drills, HSS Hire is on hand to help.

Starting outdoors – why not revitalise your patio or deep-clean your driveway with a mini power washer? Around the rest of your garden the use of lawn scarifiers, lawnmowers and lawn aerator can breathe new life into an ailing lawn. Or if you are just tidying up then why not hire a shredder, chipper or a leaf sucker?

If you are looking to work at a height, to clean windows or gutters, then HSS Hire will have the right ladder, tower or lift to suit your needs.

HSS Hire also has the equipment to help the indoors stage of the ‘spring clean’ too, such as carpet cleaners and steam cleaners, so there’s really no excuse to not have a shiny home this Spring. Or if you need to do more than just clean, HSS can supply wallpaper strippers, paint strippers, dust sheets and spray systems to help you redecorate professionally.

Category Manager, James Rice of HSS Hire explains it is a great time of year to freshen up your home and garden, “As spring begins and the extra hour of sunlight lightens our evenings, our gardens will be getting more use. Taking the necessary steps now to prepare your garden is crucial, so when summer arrives – hopefully bringing the nice weather with it – your garden will be a beautiful, tranquil retreat.”

Via EPR Network
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Constant Sales with Tool-Net

Forget about waiting for the next sale to kick-in at your local tool warehouse because you might be hanging around until next January. Tool-Net offer massive discounts throughout the year on a large range of quality Power-Tools.

There really is no excuse to shop anywhere else once you’ve seen the amount of money that you can save at Tool-Net. One of the many highlights of the website is that all it takes is a couple of clicks and you’re surrounded with deals. You needn’t wait around to make a long trip to a retail park as everything is organised from the comfort of your home or place of work. Perfect for a keen DIY fanatic or a professional labourer.

At Tool-Net you can buy the Bosch 36V 5-Tool Lithium-Ion Power Kit which includes a rotary hammer drill, a combi drill driver, a circular saw, a reciprocating saw and a wall scanner. The list price including VAT for the product is £1,827.00, whereas the Tool-Net price is just £1,109.94. This is just one example of the huge savings available throughout the website.

Another illustration of the incredible savings available is the DeWalt DCX5PAKL2 18V Li-Ion NANO 5 Tool Combo Pack. This contains lithium-ion battery technology, combi hammer drill driver, circular saw, jigsaw, recip saw and flexible flashlight. Including VAT the list price is £1,680.00 but at Tool-Net you can find it for just £687.59.

Become one of the 10,000s of Tool-Net customers and reap the fantastic benefits on offer. With hundreds of prices reduced each day, a unique Live Chat feature where you can talk to a helpful Tool-Net employee, a vast catalogue of the best names and brands in power tools, hand tools, accessories, site equipment and consumables, and 98% of orders dispatched on the same day as order.

Via EPR Network
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Survey Reveals Facilities Managers Wasting Up To A Day A Week On Equipment Management

A survey and whitepaper sponsored by HSS, the national supplier of tool and equipment hire, in association with the Facilities Management Association (FMA), has discovered that almost one third of Facilities Managers are spending almost a day a week on the management of their equipment. Launched today, the whitepaper based on the survey results, written by leading FM consultant and journalist, Martin Pickard, known to many as “The FM Guru” can be viewed online at www.hss.com/outsource.

The survey, conducted amongst a sample of 330 Facilities Management (FM) professionals, working both in-house and for outsource specialists, found that:

* almost 30% of managers spent between 10% – 20% of their time on equipment matters.
* 81% report that margins fell in 2010
* 48% anticipate that the Public Sector Spending Review will have a negative impact on their business
* 40% report that equipment problems are responsible for service related issues in more than one out of five cases
* the economic environment is impacting on capital decisions with more than half of the survey respondents admitting to keeping kit beyond its useful life, with a quarter admitting losing productivity as a result of the age of their kit.

Other issues raised from this “groundbreaking” survey include 31.6% of respondents being worried about prosecution for non-compliance with health and safety legislation and a quarter reported that they could not prove their compliance with regulations. In terms of training, 90% reported their operatives had been trained to use the equipment but only 70% thought they could prove it through paperwork.

“The majority of FMs do see benefits in outsourcing with less than a quarter buying all of their own equipment,” writes Martin Pickard. “Despite this, equipment is still consuming a lot of management resource and equipment related issues are far too common. Equipment is being kept beyond its useful life as a result of the recession by those who have retained ownership while those that have outsourced have less exposure to the problems that creates.”

It is apparent from the whitepaper that for equipment outsourcers to be successful they have to demonstrate the ability to add value through specialist knowledge and technical innovation. Martin Pickard adds that solution driven commercial products are increasingly required by equipment users and that the most prudent facilities managers are those engaging successfully with leading equipment providers to develop new strategies in support of corporate objectives.

HSS works with many facilities management companies to deliver bespoke managed equipment plans through its “Outsource” service. HSS Outsource allows FMs to benefit from a move from fixed to variable costs, the minimisation of capital investment, equipment innovation and guaranteed compliance.

“The solution provides all the benefits of ownership with none of the responsibility,” says Chris Davies, HSS CEO. “It also provides a 24 hour helpdesk, advanced planned preventative maintenance regime, and the most rigorous reactive service delivered via our national network and maintenance staff. Most importantly however, Outsource provides an opportunity for facilities managers to only pay for what is in use, managing their costs efficiently in line with customer needs in challenging times.”

Martin Pickard concludes: “Emerging from a recession is a critical time for companies and it is at this time more than ever that management need to concentrate on their core business and proposition. Fixed costs and capital investment are unpopular with businesses under pressure. What could be more convenient than guaranteed availability of whatever kit you need, wherever you are and replaced with new or fully maintained equipment when you need it?”

The FM Whitepaper contains a wealth of information gained from the survey divided into five sections: Industry Outlook, Management of Equipment, Equipment Innovation and Replacement, Compliance and Training. You can view the complete white paper, Facilities management and facilities equipment, written by Martin Pickard (FBIFM) by clicking on the link - www.hss.com/outsource.

Via EPR Network
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DIY Insulation Projects Could Save Over £2.5 Billion Pounds

The recent snowy weather in December and January this year has left a revealing picture. A quick glance during the snow at your neighbours roofs would tell you who has and who has not carried out loft or cavity wall insulation. Quite simply, if the snow has remained on your neighbours’ roofs then their house is well insulated and heat is not escaping. If the snow however has melted, then heat is escaping from their house – and this, Tool-Net claims, could be costing us dearly. Informed estimates have placed the potential savings to us as a nation at over £2.5 billion.

A recent survey has highlighted that possibly only half of Britain’s 26.5 million households have any form of loft insulation and even fewer (less than 40%) have their cavity wall’s insulated. With the potential collective savings estimation, this is one DIY project households should not be sleeping on.

Tool-Net, a leading online power tool supply store, expressed surprise that so few households had tackled this simple DIY project. In recent years, the customer base for Tool-Net.co.uk has seen more and more DIY enthusiasts alongside the established customer base of trades people, using the site to source competitively priced power tools. It would seem, however, that mundane projects such as insulating a loft are not always the DIY enthusiast’s number one priority. Instead many are opting for more grandiose projects such as in-depth woodworking or building projects. Tool-Net claim they may be missing a trick. In the long run, some simple DIY tasks can end up saving the largest amount of money.

Tool-Net.co.uk offers over 6,500 power tools and power tool accessories giving consumers one of the widest choices available. Their comprehensive stock range includes saws, drills, grinders, nail guns, routers, sanders, lathes, nibblers, pressure washers and all types of power tools, fixings and consumables. Tool-Net stocks extensive product ranges from power tool brands such as Bosch, Fein, Makita, Rawl, Stil, Black & Decker, DeWalt and Hitachi.

A spokesperson from Tool-Net commented: “We have been surprised at the number of DIY enthusiasts rather than trades people who are now ordering power tools such as a Clarke Air Compressor rather than just a drill or saw. It means that people are increasingly confident enough to tackle complex DIY projects in their home. This is great – and we are happy to advise and support them. We’re just surprised that many people aren’t also doing the simple DIY projects, like loft insulation, that may not carry the kudos but can really make a saving and a difference.”

Via EPR Network
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Facilities Management Association to Give Formal Endorsement to HSS Training

HSS Hire, the national supplier of tool and equipment hire, has received formal endorsement for its specialist training division, HSS Training, from the Facilities Management Association (FMA). HSS Hire becomes the first company under this newly launched scheme to gain such recognition.

HSS Training was rigorously assessed by the FMA to gain this endorsement, achieving full compliance across all categories including management, venues, training material and trainers.

HSS Hire Training Director, Mark Winfield comments: “We are delighted to have received this endorsement from the FMA – we are commited to offering the best training and to making it easy for our customers to access the training they need and it’s nice to have what we do formally recognised by such an important third party. Over the past two years, we have invested significantly in our training capabilities with new training centres across the UK and Ireland and we’ve expanded the courses we offer and in the team of experts that deliver them. We look forward to continuing this progress into the new year and beyond.”

Chris Hoar, Chief Executive of the FMA, adds: “HSS Training is a very professional organisation, something that was evident as soon as we entered their training centres. They demonstrate an excellent commitment to highest standards in training with a skilled team of trainers, a broad range of courses that link to trade organisation and professional body requirements and very good, modern training facilities. The FMA had no hesitation in endorsing HSS’s training capability and the courses they offer. They are the first company to achieve our endorsement and have really set the standard for the rest of their industry.”

The announcement comes just days after HSS Hire launched its latest training catalogue featuring new technical, safety and rail sector training courses and including a range of new e-learning courses. The innovative click and flick version of the training catalogue enables easy viewing of the catalogue online.

Via EPR Network
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