May, 2022

Ecological Paint To Limit Pollution

When it comes to painting the exterior wall of the house, the choice of paint is more or less complicated. Unlike the interior walls, the facades require special attention since they are always exposed to the weather. Also, you must take into account the weather conditions of your region to choose the paint color to use.

Also, note that in the context of a construction or a renovation, the Local Urbanism Plan (PLU) defines the authorized colors for the façade. Therefore, you should check with the town hall, especially if your home is located in a protected area. In any case, we recommend you choose ecological paint, which is non-toxic and accessible to all budgets.

Why do we talk about organic paint?

Natural paints are environmentally friendly and less toxic than natural paints. Unlike the latter, they are made with natural and biodegradable elements such as lime, casein, or silicate. That’s why they are generally used for interiors, especially in bedrooms and babies’ rooms. Indeed, although these types of paint have a low amount of volatile organic compounds, they do not give off bad odors that cause headaches. Be aware, however, that not all paints that are labeled “VOC-free” are necessarily environmentally friendly.

To qualify as organic, they must contain 95% natural ingredients. There are also natural bio-based paints that are 95% plant and animal-based. To find out, be sure to check the box where the components are listed. You can also rely on the advice of the professionals of the company you hired to do the painting or buy the paint only in stores specializing in the sale of ecological products.

How to choose your eco-friendly paint?

There are different types of ecological paints. In fact, you can easily make paint from lime since you need to get lime and mix it with water. Although no chemical components are used in this type of paint, protect yourself with a mask anyway because lime is a more or less harmful product. In any case, lime-based paint is suitable for any surface and is very aesthetic. However, it is not washable with water.

Therefore, it is not really recommended for bathrooms and kitchens. Choose instead the silicate one, which can be used for both indoor and outdoor use. It is resistant to steam and washout and is easy to maintain. There is also clay paint which is suitable for all types of support and which comes in a wide choice of colors.

However, it is preferable not to use sharp objects or too hard when washing your walls. Silicate paints are particularly sensitive to scratches. However, it is essential to underline that ecological paints do not produce a rendering as satisfactory as that of traditional paints. They are difficult to apply, and the drying time is very long because of the lack of solvent in their composition. In addition to this, they do not offer a wide choice of tints and colors as conventional paints.

Dress for the job

Painting is messy, so we don’t recommend putting on your Sunday best to do this specific job. Put on a long-sleeved shirt, old work pants, a pair of old tennis shoes, and a cap to protect yourself from the paint that will eventually drip or fall on you.

After all, you will always get paint while painting; no matter how careful you are when painting and handling the paint, it’s the nature of the job. By covering yourself properly, you won’t have to rub the paint off your skin at the end of the day. Also, line your floor with plastic or old newspapers to protect your floors from paint drips.

Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about painting.

May, 2022

Why Is Repairing Better Than Replacing?

We use a wide variety of things every day, and when they break, we throw them away. It’s easy to get rid of things but not very durable. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce waste. We already had the idea of a barter economy, but now we also have a repair economy. Repair economy: sounds like a buzzword? Here’s why it’s so essential for a greener future!Why is Repair on the Rise?

1) Sustainability

The biggest reason to repair things instead of throwing them away is durability. Even if we are not aware of it daily, the things we use significantly impact the environment. Consider a tool that many of us have: the laptop computer.

According to research, laptops are damaging the earth. For example, an average of 628 kilograms of toxic substances are emitted in the manufacture of a single laptop. This is equivalent to the weight of 20 small children.

There are good reasons to repair laptops and buy refurbished products. In this case, we are talking about laptops, but clothing, for example, also has a (hidden) significant impact.

For example, it takes about 10,000 liters of water to produce one pair of jeans, and the production process emits 32 kg of CO2! We bet you had no idea about this!

2) Hiring Locally

Repairing is not only good for the planet, but it is also beneficial for people’s personal interests. After all, repairing leads to local employment. The repair economy creates more jobs for people with few or no average qualifications.

This is because these activities are under tremendous pressure from globalization, automation, and robotization. Moreover, repairers often work for small local companies, contributing to the diversity and social cohesion of the cityscape. So there are only benefits.

This will also help improve the conditions under which we work. For example, our e-waste is processed by disadvantaged people in poor conditions. When we have our electronics repaired, this type of waste is reduced. As a result, fewer people will suffer from health problems.

Cost Savings From Repairing Equipment

Want to save money by repairing instead of replacing? Then take a look at the following tips:

1) Maintain Your Stuffs

For example, by descaling your kettle from time to time, you can reduce the time it takes for water to boil. It saves energy and reduces the kettle’s likelihood of breaking due to limescale. Therefore, it is essential to maintain the equipment properly. You can find out how to do this in the user manual. Many other little tricks and tips like this can help you keep your appliances functioning properly for longer.

2) Do-It-Yourself Repairs

Some products can be easily repaired by yourself. This reduces costs and allows you to work sustainably.

3) Visit the Repair Cafe

Repair Cafés are free meetings where you can repair items. Tools and materials are available for all kinds of repairs. There are also volunteers with repair knowledge and skills who can help. By doing so, you can do something good for both you and the climate. So, try to find a repair cafe near you. Don’t want to do the repairs yourself? Then find a professional mechanic that can visit you!

As you can see repairing can be much better in so many aspects of life. However, you should be mindful and decide well what can and cannot be repaired. In some cases, a new appliance may be more efficient than the broken one you have now. In this situation, it may be better to replace the appliance. Refrigerators, freezers, and dryers, in particular, form part of such appliances, and they have also become much more economical in recent years.

Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

May, 2022

The Importance Of Waste Management In 2022

Now more than ever, more and more people are conscious of their carbon footprint, and they are trying their best to reduce it and their waste. We have only one inhabitable planet in our solar system (or the entire Milky Way for all we know), and we need to start acting like it, and this nonchalant attitude about global warming needs to be addressed.

Waste management is a global concern, and waste is generated from construction sites, households, refineries, factories, and nuclear power plants. We are having a population boom, and with this or lifestyles are also changing, and this is an alarming threat to the environment so far.

When not managed properly, waste can cause serious problems to our health and the environment at large. This is why we all need to get together to solve the issue of waste management. So, without further ado, let’s dive further into this blog and learn more about waste management and what we can do at an individual level to save our planet.

Why do we need it?

The handling and disposing of solid and liquid waste fall under waste management. Their treatment and recycling also fall under this. In the past, people would dig holes into far-off land areas to dispose of their waste, and this was a feasible solution back then because there were a lot of unused land, but now this is no longer a viable solution. During those times, waste production was less because we had a smaller population, and this made waste management easier.

Now, due to the growing number of people on the planet (approximately 7.75 billion people), waste production has increased significantly, and it has drastically made waste management more difficult. An alarming figure provided by the RTS shows that the average American produces about 5.91 pounds of trash daily, and only 1.51 pounds of it is recycled. This is why now more than ever, waste management is something that we should all be concerned about.

Importance

It saves the environment from the toxic effect of biodegradable and inorganic elements that are usually present in the waste. The mismanagement of waste can have horrendous effects on our planet and can cause air contamination, water contamination, and soil erosion. In an ideal world, all waste should be collected to be cycled and reused, but we live far from the ideal world, and not all the waste we produce is recycled, and this is way far from reality.

According to the World Wildlife Fund, an estimated 8 million tons of plastic end up in our ocean annually. We need to separate was te into their respective categories in order to be able to recycle them properly, and they can be used to create new products instead of landing in landfills. When they are not recycled, they land in landfills or worse in our ocean, and this can pose a threat to both human and marine life.

Food waste and management

When food waste is dumped into landfills, they produce methane gas because it breaks down without oxygen. According to the EDF (Environmental Defense Fund), methane poses more harm to the environment when compared to carbon dioxide. It is 84 times more dangerous than the latter, and it also absorbs sunlight which causes an increase in global temperature. If we don’t do anything about it, by 2050, this emission will increase to approximately 2.4 billion tons.

Economy and waste management

If left unattended, the issue of waste management can also have a harmful impact on not only the environment but also the economy. When untreated waste is exposed to the air, it can cause environmental hazards, and this can impact the infrastructure. Over time, waste management is becoming increasingly more important, and businesses can save money by recycling their waste and material.

Looking for help?

Do you live in Botany? Are you in search of a rental bin or waste management solutions? Then look no further because Empire Bins is here to solve all your problems. So, relax and give them a call on their wide range of rental bins and waste management solutions; they have a bin whatever your needs are, be it for garbage removal, storage, or even if you have a large event coming up.

Renting a bin, hook bin, or even skip has never been easier than with the help of Empire Bins. Their motto is no job is too big or too small for them, and they deliver on their promise. What are you waiting for? They are only one phone call away!

May, 2022

Sustainable Parenting: How to Stay Green as a New Parent?

Bringing a baby into the world is a wonderful thing. However, there are many today who want to be a sustainable parent and approach childbearing with a sustainable and minimalistic approach. If that’s what you are looking for, here are some great tips to start with.

Start With an Eco-Friendly Baby Shower

The baby upbringing process always starts with a baby shower and who doesn’t love the idea of bestowing a pregnant woman with love and blessings.

When I lived in Houston, I helped my cousin in organizing a baby shower for her friend. They were such an incredible host and we tried to find the most beautiful and affordable baby shower venues for them. However, I never imagined that I’ll be witnessing so much food waste – food that could have fed thousands of orphans. The excessive use of plastic goodie bags and the irresponsibility towards the venue were the most environmentally unsustainable components of that baby shower.

However, there are some simple ways that can help you organize a much more “sustainable” baby shower and celebrate the arrival of a new life. Let me give you some tips:

Start by sending out eco-friendly invitations. You can either create them yourselves using recycled materials or opt for e-cards.
Using the invitations, you can let all your guests know that you only want eco-friendly gifts and if you are sending e-cards, you can also include a link that will be directed to a gift registry, consisting of only eco-friendly baby shower gifts.
Always choose sustainable event venues and don’t worry, they don’t charge for being eco-friendly. Or, you could just organize the event in your home.
There’s no party without eye-pleasing decorations and there’s no sustainable event without plant-based decorations.
Usually, goodie bags include glitter coasters, scented candles, scented soaps, personalized wine glasses, lollipops and mini chocolate bars. But, a sustainable goodie bag should have items like organic soaps, mini terracotta plant pots, seedlings and other such items that can encourage people to adopt a more green-like lifestyle.

Sustainable Toys

From babies to toddlers, toys play a prominent role in helping children grow, develop their sense of touch, sight and hearing. Through these toys, they also learn about their respective gender roles in the society.

Out of all, plastic toys are the most famous and common because they are usually cheap and convenient. However, don’t forget that these toys can add to the global environmental mess we are currently facing.

I’m not asking you to deprive your kids of toys and trinkets and have them begging for these, but to opt for sustainable toys in order to lessen the guilt of indulging in the unsustainable plastic junk. Today, there are several companies such as Bella Luna Toys or Oompa, which have a wide range of eco-friendly or GOTS-certified toys. There are even companies that create and design toys out of recycled plastics.

Baby Food

If you really want to be a sustainable parent, then you also have a responsibility for what you are feeding your child with.

Today, glass jars are used to store baby food and glass is a material that can be recycled. And, you even have plant-based baby food. However, the most sustainable practice you can have while feeding your child is making your own baby food.

I know it may sound as if it will take a lot of time and effort to make the same baby food as provided by food companies, but truth is you are only buying pureed food. All you need is some seasonal fruits and vegetables and you are good to go.

Baby Toothbrush

As soon as your kid’s teeth start to come through, you’ll need to start brushing his teeth and experts always recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush.

You’ll be surprised to learn that there’s even a sustainable way for this simple activity. Today, you’ll find an extensive range of sustainable and FDA-approved kid’s toothbrushes.

May, 2022

Renovate Your Electrical Installations to Save Energy

In France, about 7 million electrical installations present risks, of which a third are considered dangerous. You should also know that one fire out of 5 is of electrical origin, and 100 people die each year from electrocution, hence the urgency of the upgrade. It should also be noted that electrical installations made before 1974 are not up to standard.

Have Your Installations Diagnosed

For properties used for residential purposes with electrical installations older than 15 years, an electrical diagnosis is mandatory, with a validity period of 3 years for a property for sale and 6 years for a house to rent.

The cost of an electrical diagnosis is from 53,55 € (varying according to the provider and the appointment date). It can be done by a certified professional.

The anomalies identified during the diagnosis are detailed in the report, and the resulting risks are mentioned. The report also offers other recommendations to improve your installation.

How Can the State Help You Renovate Your Installations?

Renovating obsolete electrical installations or bringing them up to standard may be eligible for state aid. The total renovation cost is from 80 € per square meter, excluding taxes. Many financial aids are available to you, including

– assistance from the Agence Nationale de l’Habitat (ANAH), which can finance up to half of your renovation work;

– a home improvement loan, which can cover 80% of the planned expenses, with a modest interest rate of 1% (payment is made in two stages, upon presentation of the estimate and completion of the work upon presentation of the invoices;

– reduction to 10% of the VAT rate.

Obtaining this aid is subject to a certain number of conditions: to be the owner of a dwelling built at least 15 years ago and renovated at least 6 years after the work and classified as a family with modest or very modest resources.

What Work Is Required to Bring Your Electrical Installations up to Standard?

According to the French standard NF C15-100 governing low voltage electrical installations, this is a renovation of the electrical installation. This standard imposes the minimum number of electrical equipment per room, the control of this equipment, and the respect for minimum protection distances (access to circuit breakers, the distance of an installation from a water point, minimum height of a wall socket, sheathing of electrical wires…). It is kept up to date with technological developments and new safety requirements.

In addition to the safety of your home, the upgrading of the electrical installation can have a positive impact on your electricity consumption by avoiding the loss of electrical current (leakage current), which leads to overconsumption. With the electrical renovation, you realize an added value to your house.

You must call on a professional to bring your electrical installations up to standard.

Think About Energy Renovation

You can take advantage of upgrading your installations to initiate energy renovation work: take advantage of new technologies to lower your electricity consumption. Once again, you can benefit from a helping hand from the State for renovations aimed at reducing your energy consumption and, at the same time, improving your comfort:

– insulation and renovation of heating equipment ;

– installation of other energy sources such as solar panels that can save you up to 40% on your electricity bills;

– installing a controlled mechanical ventilation system to avoid heat loss, while benefiting from improved air quality in your home.

Indeed, the State finances energy renovation work because it is carried out by RGE-labeled companies (recognized as environmental guarantors).

May, 2022

Pre-Vacation Power Saving Checklist

You may be leaving for a well-deserved break to the coast or abroad, but your home is not going on vacation! Water, electricity, gas, and heating oil use continues to rise.

During vacation, the various appliances in your home continue to consume electricity. Before you pack up, take a look at this energy savings checklist to help you reduce your hidden consumption while on vacation!

1) Your Fridge Needs Some Holidays Too

Buy the amount of food you need only the week before you leave. That way, you won’t have leftovers before you go, and you can turn off the refrigerator. Make sure to leave the refrigerator door open to avoid musty smells and black mold.

Does it seem like a mission impossible? Even if your refrigerator is full, you can still reduce power consumption. How? Place empty plastic bottles or boxes in the fridge to keep it full. That way, less energy is needed to cool the refrigerator, and therefore less is consumed.

Also, make sure there are adequate ventilation openings in the back of the refrigerator. This is where the condenser (the black grid at the back of the refrigerator) is located and generates a lot of heat. To improve the ventilation of the condenser, move the refrigerator forward a bit. This will reduce heat generation and, therefore, power consumption.

2) Stop the Production of Hot Water

During holidays, no one needs hot water in the house. Therefore, the hot water boiler can be safely shut down. This means that the boiler will not be switched on regularly to keep the hot water at the right temperature. This is something you may forget to do before you go to work during the holiday season, so be sure to put this on your checklist. Also think about the boiler under the kitchen sink!

3) Turn Off The Water Valve

Before you leave, shut off the main water valve that provides water supply in the house. This way, you don’t have to worry about water leaking while you are away.

Because there are so many homeowners that have water leaks that go unnoticed since they are away. However, there are solutions to detect leaks.

Did you know that the number of reported water leaks increases when the weather is hot during holidays and weekends?

4) Set the Heating to Summer Mode

There is no point in heating unnecessarily, especially if you are not home. So, set your heating to summer mode to avoid using gas or heating oil. Another trick is to open the thermostat valve all the way. If you turn it off, when you turn the heating back on in the fall, the faucet may clog, and you may lose hot water.

5) Beware of Appliances on Standby!

Many appliances consume a small amount of power, even when you think they are turned off. Which ones are they? TVs, set-top boxes, computers, WiFi, printers, laptop chargers, alarm clocks, etc.

In a typical home, 15 to 50 devices are on standby, consuming 100 watts at any given time. 2 weeks can result in about 5 to 10 euros of wasted power consumption. This amount could easily be saved if all devices were unplugged before leaving on a trip. To reduce the consumption of standby appliances, unplug everything before you leave. This is a surefire way to reduce standby power.

With these tips, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind. After all, everything is under control, so relax! If you have any other tips, don’t hesitate to share them with us in the comments below!

May, 2022

Water Tank For Restaurants: The Regulations Governing It

Rainwater harvesting has developed a lot in the last few years, especially in remote areas of the city. However, this practice remains more or less marginal due to a lack of knowledge about the standards that apply. Thus, we have elaborated this article to share with you the operating mode, as well as the regulations to know about rainwater harvesting. They will be very useful, especially if you run a restaurant.

Rainwater harvesting through the roof

In order to effectively collect the rainwater that runs off your roof, it is recommended that:

- Your roof is sloped to limit the impurities and organic matter that accumulate on a flat roof.

- Your roof should be sloped to limit the impurities and organic matter that accumulate on a flat roof. You should prefer slate or tile roofing to avoid possible contamination of the water by synthetic materials.

Furthermore, you should know that with more roof surfaces projected on the ground, you will be able to collect important quantities of water in your cistern via the gutters.

Good to know about rainwater storage in a cistern

In order to avoid the risk of overflowing onto your roof, we advise you to opt for an underground concrete cistern. Moreover, since rainwater tends to be slightly acidic, storing it in a concrete cistern will help it mineralize. However, you should know that installing an underground cistern requires some work, often requiring a high budget. However, it is always advisable to install it during the earthworks in order to save on the cost of the work.

However, if the option of burying your tank is not possible, don’t be discouraged, as you can always have an open-air polyester tank installed. However, keep in mind that an open-air tank is only recommended for occasional and moderate use. That said, for your garden maintenance, cleaning, toilets as well as housekeeping.

Using filters to improve water quality

There are three main stages of filtration:

1. Placement of a leaf filter (primary filter) before the water enters your tank. This pre-filter is a simple sponge filter in an inspection chamber. It is generally used to collect tree leaves and large impurities. It also prevents small animals from falling into the tank.
2. Filters of at least 20 microns at the pump outlet retain fine particles to perfect the water for the toilet. An additional 1 to 9 microns filter will be necessary to ensure that the water can be used for washing and cleaning without damaging your plumbing.
3. For the rainwater to become potable, you need to add to that:

- A microfiltration system of less than 1 micron, through a ceramic or activated carbon filter, will remove all impurities from the water.

- Or a reverse osmosis system, through a trickle filtration through a membrane, so that the water is both drinkable and low mineralized.

What the law says about rainwater harvesting

According to the law, you are free to use and dispose of the rainwater that falls on your property. However, it is important for you to know that the use of rainwater must only be for “non-food and non-corporeal” use according to the regulations. Thus, you are not allowed to cook food for your restaurant with reclaimed rainwater.

In addition, the regulations require those who use rainwater harvesting systems to maintain them regularly. This includes cleaning the filters and the bottom of the tank with a high-pressure cleaner. Last but not least, you have to declare the installation of a rainwater harvesting system to your local city hall. Indeed, the law states that if you discharge the rainwater into the sewerage system, you should be billed for it.

Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about collecting rainwater.

May, 2022

Top 3 Reasons To Be Against Fast Fashion

Due to the growing population and the internet age we live in, we spend a lot of money on clothes, which is not always good for our planet. Companies like Forever 21, H&M, and even Zara are major contributors to the fast fashion industry, producing fashionable and cheap clothes that cost our environment a lot of money, as mass production of fashion items is not useful for the planet.

Since these clothes go out of fashion and disappear again with a snap of the fingers, most of them are usually thrown away and end up in the fields. So, without further ado, let’s dive further into this blog and learn more about fast fashion and why you should be against it.

What is it?

Fast fashion is a widespread trend in the fashion industry based on an ultra-fast renewal of collections. Relying on a frantic and unsustainable production rate, some ready-to-wear brands renew their collections every two weeks or less. This practice, inherited from the second half of the twentieth century with the emergence of “lean management” at Toyota, has been imposed over time in all industries. This “disposable” fashion produced at a lower cost has disastrous social and environmental consequences.

The aim is to minimize production costs, manufacture just in time, and reduce supply times to increase profitability. The food sector very quickly adopted this organizational model to create the concept of “fast food” and thus offer to the most significant number of people products of lower quality, manufactured quickly and sold on a global scale. Today, this practice has spread to the fashion industry, and most large textile companies operate according to this dominant “fast fashion” model.

1. Human exploitation

The fast fashion industry usually starts in “third world” countries like Bangladesh and China, and the workers in this industry are exploited and underpaid and considered interchangeable objects. These are the aspects of fast fashion that are not usually talked about because we live in a world where there is nothing wrong as long as white bodies don’t have to suffer.

Hundreds of people die every year as a result of the fast fashion industry. The young fashion industry employs mostly young women from developing countries, 80% of whom are between 18 and 24 years old. Some factories even employ underage children, who are naturally underpaid and exploited. To understand the exploitation of these people, let me give you a concrete example: in 2013, an eight-story building collapsed in Bangladesh, killing 1134 workers and injuring more than 2500 others.

That didn’t even make the international news. Why, you ask? Because developed countries have always benefited from the labor of black and brown people. This news did not make a big splash in international waters. After all, it wasn’t seen as something to get upset about because white people weren’t hurt in the process, but they were profiting from this inhumane business.

2. Fast fashion is an ecological scourge

The fashion industry is considered the second most polluting sector in the world, directly after the oil industry. With an average of 52 collections per year for some brands, our fashion is disposable and hardly recyclable. Its production is a heresy for the planet: cotton and polyester, which make up the majority of our clothes, are not biodegradable.

They are very energy-consuming; they pollute water, underwater environments, and consequently, our food chain. Enjoy your meal, of course. Child labor, relocation, extreme working conditions, miserable wages… In the Philippines, for example, textile workers are paid $0.88 per hour, $2 in Bangladesh. Should we really accept that people suffer to produce our clothes?

3. We just don’t need that many clothes!

Fifty years ago, we bought about 25 clothes a year. Today, we buy… 80 every year. Scary, isn’t it? Every year, we buy more than 80 billion clothes in the world. Take 5 minutes and open your closet. Count the number of jeans you own, the number of T-shirts you wear, and all the other clothes you may not have removed the tags from yet. So, what’s the bottom line?

Have you also noticed that even at Zara, prices are going up severely? Fast fashion brands are starting to create their capsule collections, raising their prices and demands. The quality, however, does not change. The conditions of production of these clothes do not change either.

Final thoughts

Personally, I only shop at thrift stores these days, and when I buy clothes at a store, I do my due diligence beforehand and do research, and avoid shopping at fashion brands that profit from the fast fashion industry. Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about fast fashion and its impact on our planet.

May, 2022

4 Good Reasons To Choose A Cork Floor

In recent years, cork flooring has gained more and more popularity on the market. It is very appreciated for its charm that blends into the decor and adapts to all styles. Being modern and straightforward, the cork will bring out the authenticity of your interior. In this case, why not opt for cork as a floor covering?

The different types of cork flooring

Choosing a cork floor is very interesting. But before you install it, you need to choose the right type of cork floor for your needs.

Standard cork roll: this type of cork is often used to cover floors. But it can also be used on walls. It is a covering that adapts to all environments.
Dense cork roll: very soft and comfortable; it is used to cover the floor of rooms. It is also used for parquet underlayment.
Mixed rubber cork: this type of cork guarantees greater resistance and impermeability.

To install your flooring, call a professional. This will guarantee work that will meet your needs.

Reasons to choose cork flooring

Easy to maintain

Cork is a material that offers a certain advantage in terms of maintenance, as it is very easy to clean. Once it is installed, a special varnish is applied to it to ensure its durability. This varnish can remain intact for many years. After treatment, cork has antistatic qualities that prevent dust from settling on the material. This makes it easier to maintain.

As cork is a waterproof material, it is not affected by damp rooms or household stains. To clean it, simply vacuum and wipe it regularly. To maintain your cork floor naturally, it is recommended to use natural oils or waxes. In the case of solid cork, you may consider sanding it from time to time to give the material a new shine.

A natural coating

Cork is a material made from 100% natural materials. When you choose cork, you are choosing an environmentally friendly flooring material. No trees need to be cut down to make it. You have to peel the bark off the cork oak tree. Cork flooring is then made from it, which is a sustainable alternative to the life of the wood. Indeed, all the cork harvest is treated, and not a single gram is lost, which makes its exploitation more respectful of the environment.

A very resistant covering

In addition to being a natural covering, cork is known for its performance in terms of resistance. It is the type of floor that keeps for a long time because of its solid structure. Some brands offer cork floors that can last up to 25 years. So, you will have the assurance of a long-lasting renovation of your floor.

And thanks to its protective top layer, it is not susceptible to the bumps and scratches that can occur in everyday life. This type of flooring is also fire resistant. In addition, it has an elastic memory that allows it to return to its original shape if it is perforated.

A very insulating covering

Cork is very appreciated and known for its thermal insulation qualities. It is perfect for regulating the temperature of your home. Indeed, its low thermal conductivity allows it to retain heat, which provides an ideal temperature on the floor throughout the year. Thus, it is very practical in winter.

Cork absorbs footfall and impact noise, which improves your hearing comfort. Moreover, it avoids the excessive use of heating and air conditioning, which will allow you to save energy. From its properties of phonic insulation, it also reduces the transmission of noise. You can also ask for advice from a qualified professional to carry out the work.

Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about cork flooring.

May, 2022

Is The Installation Of A Lift Pump Mandatory?

As you probably already know, the flow of water depends on gravity. However, there are certain conditions that cause the water level to be lower than the ground level. In this case, it may be necessary to use devices such as a lift pump.

How does a lift pump work?

As the name suggests, a lift pump is used to raise water to a certain height. It, therefore, provides additional pressure for the water to flow into the pipes provided for this purpose. It can be used in different cases, namely:

For the evacuation of wastewater
To provide a greater flow of water,
To empty water from a pond or a swimming pool

A lift pump consists of 3 main elements: a storage tank, a lift pump, and a control system. In some cases, its installation can be part of your plumbing work. To operate, the system is immersed in the liquid to be drained.

The control system, usually sensors, detects the level of water to be drained. The pump then starts an automatic process. The pump itself, which is equipped with an electric motor, will then suck up the liquid and discharge it into a discharge pipe. Note that the type of installation depends on the viscosity of the water. Indeed, pumps of different power will be necessary to evacuate clear water and water loaded (with mud, soil, sand, etc.).

When is it mandatory to use a lift pump?

You are responsible for the installation of the sewage disposal system from your property to the city sewage system. If the level of your land (and therefore of your pipes) is below that of the municipal sewerage system, you will probably need a lifting pump. There are certain cases where it is essential to use a lift pump to ensure the circulation of water.

The objective is to bring additional pressure to bring water to the pipes. As you may know, the force of gravity is often insufficient to “lift” the water. This device is also useful for evacuating wastewater from a room located in the basement of your house.

If you do not have a sewage treatment system, you will need a pump with sufficient capacity. On the other hand, if you already have a non-collective sanitation system, you can invest in a much less powerful device. Note that a lift pump needs maintenance. Otherwise, the storage tank may malfunction and overflow.

In what other cases can the sewage pump be used?

In addition to the removal of heavy wastewater, the sewage pump can also help in other situations.

Draining a pool

Of course, there are different ways of emptying a pool. You can use a garden hose or a siphon, but you can also use a lift pump. When you immerse it in the water, the device will automatically empty it from your pool. The water can then be evacuated into the rainwater collector or into the sewer system. However, you should know that authorization is required to empty a pool.

Draining after a flood

The lift pump is an interesting equipment to evacuate the water accumulated after a flood. Indeed, it will allow you to suck up all the water and evacuate it elsewhere quickly. You can always opt for submerged models. However, keep an eye on your pump so that it doesn’t run dry, which could damage the motor. If the water is muddy, use a dirty water pump. If the water is muddy, use a pump to clear the water.

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