Unistrut Channel

Unistrut Channel

Unistrut channel systems have revolutionized light structural support in construction and electrical industries. These standardized metal framing solutions need minimal tools and basic training to install. The strut channel’s versatility makes it perfect for supporting wiring, plumbing, and mechanical components based on project needs. The popular P1000 channel leads a range of profiles, with sizes from standard 1-5/8 inches width to 1-1/4 inches and compact 13/32 inch options. The construction materials include stainless steel, aluminum alloy, and fiberglass, each suited for different environments. Metal Framing Manufacturers Association standards ensure professionals can mix components from various suppliers when using unistrut channel nuts, brackets, and clamps. This piece covers everything you need to know about understanding and installing unistrut channel systems effectively.

Unistrut Channel

What is a Unistrut Channel?

The Unistrut channel system started in 1924 as a simple yet clever metal framing solution with a continuous slotted channel and unique weldless connection. This versatile system has grown into a complete engineered building and support framework used in industries of all types.

Simple definition and purpose

A Unistrut channel serves as a versatile slotted metal framing component that anyone can assemble on-site. The metal framing channel lets users position fittings anywhere along the piece without welding or drilling. Most channels come from metal sheets folded into an open channel shape. These sheets have inward-curving lips that add stiffness and work as mounting points for connecting components.

Unistrut channels create adaptable structural frameworks that support mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in buildings. The system’s bolts and channel nuts make it completely adjustable and reusable. You can quickly put together or take apart components, which makes changes easy as project needs shift.

Unistrut channels give you fifteen different sizes with hundreds of fittings, so you can tackle almost any project. You’ll find the system in steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and now fiberglass—a material that resists corrosion and offers lightweight strength and rigidity.

Common applications in construction and industry

Unistrut channel’s amazing versatility makes it useful in many industries. People often call it “The Erector Set of The Construction Industry”.

Common applications include:

  • Support structures: Unistrut excels at supporting HVAC systems, electrical conduits, plumbing lines, and ductwork
  • Storage solutions: The system creates excellent racks, shelving, and material handling systems
  • Medical equipment supports: It works great for mounting overhead X-rays, CRT monitors, and surgical lights
  • Ceiling supports: Creates overhead support grids for lighting, plumbing, and high-tech equipment
  • Elevated platforms: Provides safe walking surfaces at elevation through catwalks and mezzanines
  • Rooftop systems: Perfect for pipe supports, walkways, and mounting solar panels
  • Cable management: Organizes and secures cables and wiring systems in commercial and industrial settings

Contractors and plant maintenance teams choose Unistrut as their go-to material in everything from manufacturing to healthcare.

Why Unistrut beats custom fabrication

Unistrut’s biggest advantage over custom fabrication comes from its simplicity and budget-friendly design. Most commercial projects need solutions that balance strength, cost, and looks, rather than just focusing on strength like industrial applications.

You won’t need cutting, welding, drilling, or other expensive secondary fabrication with Unistrut. Workers with moderate training can assemble the system using standard tools, which cuts costs by a lot compared to custom options. This easy installation saves both labor and time during construction projects.

Unistrut matches welded metal framing’s strength but offers flexibility that custom solutions can’t touch. You can adjust it endlessly, which helps when adapting frames or support structures around existing plant layouts.

The system’s reusability adds another benefit. Teams can take apart components and save them for later projects, making Unistrut a smart long-term investment. Its modular design lets you expand or modify as needed, giving you future-proof versatility that custom fabrication can’t match.

Custom fabrication with steel bar stock and commodity components remains the only alternative to Unistrut channels in most cases. This approach needs welding or lots of drilling and bolting—and lacks Unistrut’s speed, flexibility, and cost benefits.

Understanding Unistrut Channel Types and Sizes

Builders and contractors need to know Unistrut’s various sizes and configurations. The right channel type can make or break a project’s success and structural integrity.

Standard Unistrut channel sizes explained

Unistrut channels fall into three main series based on width: 1-5/8″ (standard), 1-1/4″ (A-series), and 13/16″ (miniature) series. Each channel features four essential dimensions: length, width, height, and wall thickness.

Standard lengths of Unistrut channels come in 10′ and 20′ pieces, though custom cuts are available based on project needs. The heavy-duty 1-5/8″ series remains the most accessible option, with the largest range of channel profiles and matching fittings. The 13/16″ series (19 gage) works best for lighter uses like retail displays and lab setups.

Load capacity depends substantially on wall thickness, measured in gage. These channels typically come in 12 gage (0.105″), 14 gage (0.075″), and 16 gage (0.060″) thicknesses. P1000 and P1100 share similar width and height dimensions (1-5/8″ x 1-5/8″) but differ in gage—12 versus 14, respectively.

Overview of P1000 and other popular profiles

The P1000 series is the life-blood of the Unistrut system. This 1-5/8″ x 1-5/8″ profile with 12-gage thickness delivers superior load-bearing capacity, making it perfect for industrial and commercial applications. High-volume production, easy access, and broad fitting compatibility drive its popularity.

Notable profiles beyond the standard P1000 include:

  • P3300: A 1-5/8″ x 7/8″ shallow profile that works great for wall-mounting
  • P5000: A 1-5/8″ x 3-1/4″ deep channel that offers improved strength for heavier loads
  • A1000: A 1-1/4″ x 1-1/4″ medium-duty option with 14-gage thickness

Back-to-back configurations like P1001 (1-5/8″ x 3-1/4″) create reliable structural elements by welding two channels together.

Solid vs slotted vs half-slot channels

Unistrut channels offer several hole pattern variations to meet specific mounting needs:

Solid channel needs on-site drilling or different mounting methods since it has no pre-drilled holes. This design maximizes strength but limits installation options.

Slotted channel (marked with “T” in part numbers) features long slots along the channel back that fit 1/2″ hardware and allow position adjustments. The “T-slot” style remains the most common hole pattern, offering flexibility during installation.

Half-slot channel (“HS” designation) uses shorter rectangular slots with rounded ends, punched on 2-inch centers. This design strikes a balance between strength and adjustability.

How hole patterns affect strength

Holes or slots naturally affect a channel’s structural integrity. Engineering data shows that slotted patterns need load capacity adjustments compared to solid versions.

Round-holed channels keep about 88% of the solid channel’s uniform load capacity. Half-slot and full-slot designs maintain roughly 85% of the original strength. Engineers must consider these strength reductions when calculating load requirements.

Maximum bending moment—which determines the final loading capacity—varies based on load amount, type (concentrated or distributed), and support setup. Critical applications require careful review of manufacturer specifications and load tables.

The choice between solid strength and easy installation is a key trade-off in Unistrut channel selection. Project requirements, environmental conditions, and expected loads determine the best balance.

Unistrut Channel

Choosing the Right Materials and Finishes

Your choice of material for a Unistrut channel system affects its performance and durability by a lot. You’ll find several options available, and knowing each material’s properties helps you get the best results for your specific needs.

Steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and fiberglass options

Carbon Steel serves as the foundation for most standard Unistrut channel systems. It gives you excellent strength for your money and provides reliable support for typical indoor applications. But raw steel can rust without proper finishing, so it needs protective coatings.

Aluminum Unistrut brings great advantages when weight matters. These channels weigh just a third of what steel does, making them perfect for applications that need frequent moving or have limited structural support. While aluminum resists oxidation and corrosion well and conducts heat better, it can only handle about 33% of the load compared to similar steel profiles. You should avoid using aluminum around food processing since it can change food’s color and flavor.

Stainless Steel channels come in Type 304 and 316 compositions and give you superior protection against corrosion in tough environments. Type 316 is the purer version with almost no magnetic properties, while Type 304 still has a slight magnetic pull. We used stainless steel mostly in food processing facilities, marine settings, and chemical plants where contamination is a concern.

Fiberglass Unistrut stands out as the most complete non-metallic option. It fights corrosion exceptionally well in challenging environments where metal systems usually fail. Its light weight and non-conductive properties make it perfect for wastewater treatment facilities, chemical plants, and MRI rooms.

When to use galvanized vs powder-coated finishes

You have several finish options beyond raw materials to protect against corrosion:

Galvanized Finishes come in three main types:

  • Pre-Galvanized (PG): Factory-applied zinc coating works best for standard indoor/outdoor applications
  • Hot-Dipped Galvanized (HG): Lasts about twice as long as pre-galvanized thanks to full zinc immersion, perfect for heavy corrosion areas
  • Electroplated Zinc (EG): Provides simple protection with a thin zinc layer, commonly used on fittings rather than channels

Powder-Coated Finishes like Perma-Green III protect better against fading, chalking, and chemical exposure. This eco-friendly option suits both indoor and outdoor uses where looks matter as much as corrosion resistance.

The innovative Unistrut Defender finish fills the gap between galvanized and stainless steel options. It resists corrosion three times better than hot-dipped galvanized products and costs much less than stainless steel.

Environmental considerations for material selection

Your environment will determine the best material choice:

Plain steel or pre-galvanized finishes are enough for indoor, dry environments with minimal corrosion risks.

Hot-dipped galvanized, Unistrut Defender, or aluminum channels work better in outdoor settings exposed to weather.

Stainless steel or fiberglass proves most reliable for coastal or chemical-heavy environments, despite higher upfront costs.

Stainless steel remains the go-to choice for food processing facilities because it doesn’t react with food and cleans easily.

Fiberglass or Type 316 stainless steel performs best in MRI rooms or areas that need non-magnetic properties.

Essential Components for Installation

Several components work together to make Unistrut channel installations successful. These create secure, adjustable connections without welding or drilling.

Unistrut channel nuts and how they work

Channel nuts are the backbone of the Unistrut connection system. These specialized fasteners create secure attachment points anywhere along the continuous slotted channel. You’ll find two main types: spring-loaded and plain channel nuts. Spring-loaded nuts come with a spring mechanism that keeps the nut steady during installation—perfect for one-handed overhead work. Plain nuts without springs are more affordable but need extra attention during assembly.

The channel nut installation is straightforward. Just insert it into the slotted channel and turn it 90 degrees clockwise to line up its grooves with the inturned edges. Place your fitting over the nut, insert a bolt, and tighten it. The nut’s serrated teeth will lock into the channel edges and create a vice-like connection.

Types of Unistrut channel brackets and clamps

The Unistrut system has many brackets and clamps:

  • Beam clamps connect channel to existing structural steel without welding or drilling. These come in flange (C-style), window-style, U-style, and J-style variants
  • Pipe clamps hold pipes, conduits, or tubing to channels. You can choose from two-hole straps, cushioned clamps, and two-piece designs
  • Brackets give you versatile mounting options for shelves and equipment

Tools needed for a simple install

You’ll need these tools for a simple Unistrut installation:

  • Socket wrench or ratchet
  • Measuring tape
  • Level
  • Drill with appropriate bits
  • Hand wrench

A 3/4″ strut channel socket can make installation easier, but beginners don’t need it.

Safety tips for beginners

Make sure to wear proper safety gear like gloves and eye protection at the time of cutting or installing Unistrut channel. Look for hidden electrical wires or plumbing before drilling. Start by finger-tightening all bolts before making final adjustments. This prevents cross-threading. Test your installations for stability before adding any loads.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Unistrut Channel

A Unistrut channel system needs good planning and exact execution. Anyone can build professional-quality support structures with the right steps.

Planning your layout

A solid plan makes installation work better. Start by learning about your project needs – calculate how much weight it must hold and check what you’re mounting it to. Draw a detailed diagram that shows where channels go, support points sit, and components belong. Double-check measurements and mark mounting points with a level to line everything up right. Your final design should account for weather conditions and how easy it will be to maintain.

Cutting and preparing the channel

Your layout is 10 minutes old, and now it’s time to prep your Unistrut channels:

  1. Take measurements and mark the length you need with tape and marker
  2. Lock the channel in a vise or clamp so it stays put
  3. Cut right on your mark with a hacksaw, reciprocating saw, or angle grinder that has a metal blade
  4. File down any burrs and sharp edges to keep everyone safe

Note that safety goggles and gloves must stay on the whole time.

Attaching brackets and supports

Mounting brackets need to go up first. Wall installations start with pilot holes drilled at your marked spots – use the right bit size for your anchors. Put in wall anchors based on what you’re mounting to. Toggle bolts work for drywall, while sleeve anchors grip concrete better. The Unistrut channel goes against the brackets next. A level check comes before you lock everything down.

Securing with channel nuts and bolts

Channel nuts make it easy to position things anywhere along the Unistrut. Slide the nut in, turn it a quarter turn clockwise so its grooves match the channel edges. Your fitting goes over the nut, then the bolt slides in. Hand-tighten everything first and adjust as needed. A wrench finishes the job, which locks those serrated teeth right into the channel edges with a grip like a vice.

Testing for load and stability

The final check looks at all connections to make sure they meet specs. Load testing happens gradually, staying well under the max weight limit. Watch how much it bends – you’ll want to stay within standard ratios of span/180, span/240, or span/360 based on what you’re using it for. Any tweaks should happen before you put the full load on your system.

Unistrut channel systems are one of the most adaptable structural solutions builders and contractors can use today. In this piece, we got into everything from simple channel types and sizes to material selection and installation techniques. Without doubt, these systems are suitable for countless applications in industrial and commercial settings. The popular P1000 profile shows just how versatile they can be.

Your choice of material plays a key role in how long the system lasts. Carbon steel works great for standard indoor applications, while aluminum gives you weight advantages in specific cases. On top of that, stainless steel and fiberglass work best in harsh environments where you need protection from corrosion. The best choice depends on your environment’s conditions and load requirements.

Installation techniques affect both safety and functionality by a lot. The system performs reliably over time when you plan carefully, cut precisely, and secure attachments with channel nuts and brackets. Once installed, testing confirms that your structure can safely handle intended loads without too much deflection.

Unistrut systems might look complex at first glance. Their standardized components and simple assembly make them available even to beginners. The original learning curve is worth it. You’ll get faster installations, infinite adjustability, and the chance to reuse parts – something custom fabrication can’t offer. With this knowledge, builders can create professional results using these versatile framing solutions in their next project.

Here are some FAQs about the unistrut channel:

How does the Unistrut work?

Unistrut channel is a versatile metal framing system that works by providing a standardized channel for mounting and supporting various components. The system uses specialized Unistrut channel nuts and clamps that slide into the channels, allowing for adjustable positioning of fixtures and equipment. This modular design enables endless configurations for electrical, mechanical, and structural applications using standard strut channel components.

How is Unistrut installed?

Unistrut is typically installed by first securing the P1000 channel or other strut channel sizes to walls, ceilings, or structures using appropriate fasteners. Installation involves using Unistrut channel brackets at support points and connecting sections with proper joining hardware. The system’s flexibility allows for field adjustments using Unistrut channel clamps and nuts that slide along the channel for precise component placement.

How to use a strut channel?

To use a strut channel effectively, first select the appropriate Unistrut channel sizes for your load requirements. Components are then secured using Unistrut channel nuts that slide into the grooves and tighten to hold fixtures, pipes, or equipment firmly. The system allows for easy reconfiguration by loosening the hardware, adjusting positions, and retightening without needing to drill new holes.

How do you fasten Unistrut together?

Unistrut channels are fastened together using specialized Unistrut channel brackets and joining plates that overlap connection points. For secure connections, use the proper Unistrut channel nuts and bolts designed specifically for the P1000 channel or other strut channel sizes. These connections maintain the structural integrity of the assembly while allowing for some flexibility in the system.

Why is Unistrut so expensive?

Unistrut commands a premium price due to its high-quality galvanized or stainless steel construction and precise manufacturing tolerances. The cost also reflects the engineering behind the Unistrut channel clamp and bracket systems that provide unmatched versatility and load-bearing capacity. While cheaper alternatives exist, they often lack the durability and compatibility of genuine Unistrut products.

How much weight can a Unistrut channel hold?

The weight capacity of a Unistrut channel depends on the specific P1000 channel size and mounting configuration, with standard 1-5/8″ channels typically supporting several hundred pounds per linear foot. Exact load ratings vary based on strut channel spacing, bracket placement, and the type of Unistrut channel nuts and hardware used. Always consult engineering specifications for precise load calculations in your application.

How do you attach Unistrut to a beam?

Attaching Unistrut to a beam requires using appropriate Unistrut channel brackets designed for beam connections. The P1000 channel or other strut channel sizes can be secured using beam clamps or specialized brackets that wrap around the beam flange. For heavy loads, through-bolting with Unistrut channel nuts provides the most secure attachment method.

Can you run cables in Unistrut?

Yes, Unistrut channel systems are commonly used to support and organize cable runs in commercial and industrial settings. The open design of strut channel allows for easy cable placement, while specialized Unistrut channel clamps and brackets can secure conduit or cable trays. This makes it an ideal solution for neat, accessible electrical and data cable installations.

Can you put Unistrut in concrete?

Unistrut can be embedded in concrete or attached to cured concrete using appropriate anchors. For new construction, the P1000 channel or other strut channel sizes can be cast directly into concrete with proper formwork. Existing concrete surfaces can accept Unistrut channel brackets secured with concrete anchors or epoxy-set fasteners for sturdy, long-lasting installations.

 

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7 Merits of Hot Water Systems For The Chilly Weather

This may sound impractical, but we have found various ways of achieving that heat in today’s world. You can always light a fire. You have warm clothes. You have room heaters. Most importantly, you have a hot water system to give you a proper warm hug at the beginning of every day. No good day stats without a hot shower, right!

So, these winters, get yourself the right warmth and buy a hot water system.

If you feel like a hot water system is just a few thousand dollars of wasted investment, think again. Following are 7 reasons why a hot water system is not just a necessity but also a good investment:

Consumes Less Power

When people buy a new gadget or machine, they are often worried about the electrical bills soaring high. However, with a tankless water heater, you save more energy now than ever. Without a tank, no energy would be needed to keep the stored water hot because there is no storage, to begin with. Secondly, you have one way of purchasing a solar-powered heater nowadays.

Stays Longer

A hot water system with an internal metal tank has a shelf life of 8-9 years; nonetheless, with an instant hot water system, you can go up till 15 years. Not a recurring investment, you see! To check out some of the best water heating systems, visit website.

Instant Water

Gone are the days when you would need to spend 15 minutes on the insulation rod to work. Instant heaters give the expected output within seconds. Plus, you don’t have to wait. Not just energy, instant water heaters save your time and money too.

One-time Investments

You don’t want to bind yourself down to a machine that needs manual intervention or too much maintenance with a professional mechanic. Tankless water heaters seldom go bad. Why? Because they don’t have a bulky internal system. No tank means no rusting. They connect with your existing pipes. They work on the principles of coil heating, so you only need to check them once before every winter.

Takes Less Space

You could just fit your instant hot water system on a vertical wall if there is a socket and a pipe opening nearby. This means you won’t need to make extreme changes and space for your instant hot water system to fit.

Uninterrupted Hot Showers!

Everyone likes a good warm shower at the end of a tiring day; however, imagine being in there, having a nice relaxing time, and suddenly, outcomes of the cold water. Not just your time, but your whole vibe would be ruined. You may even catch a cold. Hypothermia and frostbite happen too often! Thus, you should get yourself an unlimited supply of hot water.

The simpler the machinery, the lesser it would confuse your requirement of hot water. Tankless instant water heating systems deliver hot water, not just fast, but also consistently. So, you would never be in for a rude shock ever again!

Environmentally Harmless

Non-tank hot water systems are environmentally friendlier since they do not have gaseous emissions or toxic metal fillers.

We hope you know now that a hot water system, and especially, a tankless instant hot water system is a must-buy for the winters. You only need to buy a piece of good equipment once. Then, you can enjoy your hot showers for a decade and more to come.

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These Coronavirus Short Term Rentals Guidelines are Important for Health Workers

A mere six months ago no one could have anticipated what a small virus outbreak in Wuhan China would do to the world. During that time we have seen the virus spread to every nation, cause hundreds of thousands of deaths and millions have contracted it and gotten ill.

The coronavirus has proven to be very communicable and deadly. These two factors have caused economies on every continent to shut down some or all of their activities leading to a worldwide recession and predictions of economic calamity for an extended period of time.

Countries around the world have had to move resources wherever there are virus hotspots in their countries, causing health workers and other first line responders to have to pack up and move out of their home cities. When they move to these hot zones they must have accommodations that fit their specific needs based on key guidelines. 

For the majority of those healthcare workers who respond to the coronavirus short term rentals are the best option for accommodations. But these rentals must meet a strict criteria for protecting the health and wellbeing of the healthcare workers.

How to Select the Ideal Accommodations for Short Terms Stays During the Coronavirus Outbreak

If you are in need of accommodations while working in the New York area as a health worker during the coronavirus outbreak, you should select quality corporate housing like SoBeNY. They have facilities that meet the highest standards for comfort, security and safety. Their corporate housing is ideal and provides a relaxing and clean space for you to come back to after long shifts in stressful conditions. Additionally, their housing adheres to and even exceeds the guidelines set by the CDC and WHO for businesses operating during the coronavirus.

The Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are working closely with governments and businesses to ensure that standardized guidelines and procedures are enforced by any businesses who are serving customers during the coronavirus pandemic.

The guidelines include standards for hygiene and the procedures detail how companies like short-term rentals should treat their customers and their premises. Some of the standards and procedures include:

  • All businesses providing accommodations must conduct top-to-bottom cleaning and disinfecting of all of our properties using Tier 1 antimicrobial and antiviral products.
  • All businesses providing accommodations must conduct continual training of staff members in enhanced novel coronavirus awareness.
  • All businesses providing accommodations must ensure all of our staff members are practicing frequent proper hand washing guidelines.
  • All businesses providing accommodations must also provide the necessary resources for our staff to practice social distancing, including facilitating work-from-home measures where feasible.

Additionally the best short term rental accommodations like SoBeNY enhance and maintain their ventilation systems within all of their properties to ensure optimal airflow. Good airflow will cause clean air to be circulated and minimize transmission of the coronavirus.

If you are a health worker in need of short term accommodations in the New York area, select a company that takes your health, safety and care seriously. 

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How Does Pool Resurfacing in Orlando Works?

As the years pass by, your pool area may look old and dull due to discoloration, cracks, leaks, and chips. All these are not that pleasing to look at, and it also lessens the exterior aesthetic appearance of your home or business. Pool resurfacing Orlando can help you restore the beauty of your damaged pool area into your desired look. It would help in making your pool lasts for many years to come and making your pool area a more sustainable place for your family and friends.

Pool Resurfacing Orlando 

Pool resurfacing is a process in which old pool plaster or seals are taken off for a new surface replacement using materials such as concrete, plaster, or sealant. This is considered to be the most viable option for pool owners because the project period only takes a week to complete. Compared to other options which require extensive construction period.

Advantages of Pool Resurfacing

Pool resurfacing comes with several benefits that you can enjoy for an extended period of time. The advantages you can gain from choosing to resurface your pool are the following:

  • Extends the lifespan of your pool

Pool resurfacing helps in extending the lifespan of your pool by taking care of the damages and issues such as leaks, discoloration, and cracks. By fixing the issues right away, it prolongs its life while making the area usable and functional.

  • Makes your pool area clean

A clean pool area is a perfect place to relax and unwind, especially during scorching hot weather. There’s nothing more relaxing having a pool area that’s clean and functional.

During pool resurfacing, all the necessary treatments will be applied to the pool’s surface. Leaks and cracks will be sealed to avoid bacterial growth and possible accidents.

  • A viable solution for Pool damages

Pool resurfacing also helps you take care of pool damages as early as possible, reducing the need to spend on expensive repairs. Leaks and cracks can get worse if it’s neglected, which requires you to spend more on construction repairs. If your pool area is showing some signs of wear and tear, be sure to have it resurfaced as soon as possible.

  • Maintains the value of your home 

Leaks and cracks that are neglected decrease the value of your home. With pool resurfacing, it helps you maintain or even increase the value of your home.

  • Improves the aesthetics of your pool area

Pool resurfacing is not all about fixing pool damages and issues. A coating will also be applied on the surface of your pool based on your preferred color and design choice, which would certainly help in improving the look of your pool.

Pool Resurfacing Process 

During the pool resurfacing process, contractors will first drain the water in your pool and rip off the damaged surface. This process needs to be done to prepare the concrete slab for resurfacing.

After preparing the surface, your contractor will select a coating material suitable for your pool area. You can also discuss with your contractor if you have any preferred design finishing. Leaks, cracks, and plumbing issues will be sealed to avoid further damage. Once pool damages are sealed, the pool can now be resurfaced using a coating material.

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Top Flooring Options for Your Home

The idea to renovate and upgrade your home is one that many homeowners have taken to heart today. They want a new kitchen or bathroom, or to make their family room larger, or even add an additional bedroom. These are all great upgrades that can add to the beauty and comfort-ability of your home.

One of the best home upgrades to make is to add new high quality flooring to some or all of the rooms in your home.

Flooring has become a top renovation statement and is sometimes overlooked as a way to upgrade the look in rooms, hallways and other areas of your home. That is until the homeowner actually does the upgrade and then the reaction is that they regret waiting so long. There are many options for new flooring. Here are some of the most popular options for you to consider.

Hardwood

In terms of the most beautiful and elegant type of flooring hardwood has virtually every other type of flooring beat. Hardwood flooring covers a variety of hard woods that range in color, style and have unique patterns. The wood planks come in a range of widths and are always finished with coatings that make the wood look beautiful and last for years. They can bring out the look of furniture, drapes and wall coverings improving the stylishness of each.

In terms of upkeep, hardwood floors are easy to maintain with only a dry mop needed for cleaning. Dust and food will not stick to the floors. You will however every year or so depending on traffic have to get the floors polished. And must be careful however because the floors can scratch easily and deep scratches will require a professional to remove. Also you cannot let the floors get excessively wet or the wood will warp. If you are a bit careful, and do not put them in high traffic areas, your hardwood floors will last for decades and give you great service.

Engineered Wood

Engineered wood is manufactured by binding or fixing the strands, particles, fibres, or veneers or boards of wood, together with adhesives, or other methods. Engineered wood flooring is made from the same hardwoods and softwoods used to manufacture lumber. They contain a thin layer of hardwood on top and a plywood base beneath. Since engineered wood has a thinner layer of hardwood on top, it is not as durable as hardwood flooring. It can also chip of break more easily.

However engineered flooring does offer some advantages over hard wood. First, it can be purchased for less than expensive hardwood flooring. Also, is an excellent choice for areas where solid hardwood cannot be installed, like in basements, over concrete floors or over radiant heating systems. Engineered wood like Kahrs engineered wood flooring can be purchased in the most elegant styles and many that cannot be found in traditional wood flooring. It also is has advantages over carpet because it does not hold dirt or dust that can trigger allergies.

Carpet

Carpet has been a go to floor covering for forever because of its many positive attributes. It can be purchased in all price ranges. It is very durable and suitable for high traffic areas. Carpet comes in a huge range of styles and looks to match any room or furniture. And it feels great on bare feet.

Carpet can be challenging because it can be difficult to clean especially if spills get into the padding. If it collects too many spills, carpet can begin to smell. It also collects dust and even with frequent vacuuming it can be difficult to fully clean. There are however some great carpet cleaning services that can deep clean carpet and make it seem like new. In the end carpet remains so popular because of its versatility and look.

Although each flooring choice has great benefits, it may come down to the look and feel of the flooring you want in your home. Experiment with samples of each and you will discover the perfect choice.

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6 Quick Checks for Water Leaks Before They Cause More Damage

water-leaks

A water leak at home is not something that anyone wants, but if the worst happens, it is imperative to get it repaired as soon as possible. That might not be as easy as it sounds, with most water leaks having no visible clues as to their location, and if this is something you know little about, here are some important things you can do to localise the damage caused by leaking pipes.

  1. A Visual Inspection – Check along ceiling and floor lines for damp patches, as this is a sign of a water leak behind the wall. Other places to look are under kitchen and bathroom sinks, which are usually housed in a small compartment. Aside from the visual inspection, you might want to find out if you have any leaks, and if you are in Western Australia, there will be a plumber in Perth offering leak detection services, and with a round the clock emergency service, they can quickly evaluate your plumbing system.
  1. Damp Areas Outside – If you have puddles in the garden, this could be a sign of a water leak. Rather than digging holes where you think it might be, there are modern leak detection services that can source any leak without causing damage.
  1. Check All Faucets – Leaking taps can cause damage to ceramic and stainless steel links, not to mention the water that is being wasted. Corrosion is a major factor and if any surface is constantly wet, there will be some discolouration at the very least.
  1. Guttering – Although this is not technically part of the plumbing, it does channel away excess rainwater, and if the guttering is blocked for any reason, whenever it rains heavily, lots of water will be running down your walls, and this can cause a lot of damage.
  1. Check the Water Meter – This is a very accurate way to know if you have a water leak, and the process is as follows. First make sure all of the taps are off, and any appliances that draw water are turned off, then take meter reading, and wait for one hour, and read the meter one more time. If the reading is different, you have a leak somewhere.
  1. Call in a Plumber – Whether you can find the source of the leak or not, you should call a plumber, who would have the latest technology in leak detection, and once the leak has been sourced, they can quickly repair it. Leaking water can cause a lot more damage if the problem is not immediately addressed, and by using the services of a reliable local tradesperson, your plumbing problems will be a thing of the past.

Leaking pipes cause damage, and if you are vigilant and know what to look for, you can reduce the chances of having to make an emergency call to a plumber. In the event this cannot be avoided, make sure it is a reputable company that is local.

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