Late Summer Landscaping

Summer might be almost over, but that doesn’t mean your landscaping should be. Late summer and early fall is an ideal time to rejuvenate your lawn. Obtaining a beautiful lawn takes time and effort. By taking the proper steps for lawn maintenance now, you’ll reap the benefits of having a fresh, lush landscape in the upcoming spring.  

Maintaining your landscape is a must year-round; don’t hold it off as a springtime task. Keeping up with your lawn and flower beds throughout the year is imperative to keep them healthy and reduce labor. Read on to learn the common end-of-summer landscaping needs that are often required. 

End-of-Summer Landscaping  

Seeding Your Lawn

Sowing seed is recommended if your lawn is damaged and the soil is exposed. New seeds germinate in the late summer or early fall if kept moist. The landscape determines the kind of seed you need.

Controlling Weeds

While annual weeds die in the first fall hard frost, perennials are best controlled during the fall months. Weeds can be removed by hand, but it’s often a short-term solution since they tend to regenerate quickly. Broadleaf herbicides offer the most effective control for nuisance weeds. 

Stimulate Growth with Fertilizer

Fertilizer promotes the growth of established turf and assists in thickening sparse patches. Healthy, thick lawns also combat weed growth. To ensure your lawn is vigorous, fertilizer applications in the late fall can help the yard develop a tougher root system with a vibrant green color in the spring. 

Aerating the Lawn to Help Seedlings

Removing core chunks of soil without disrupting the turf is important for circulation. Aeration is typically performed in the fall months to loosen dirt and prevent thatch expansion. When extensive seeding is required, lawn aerating is recommended to allow better germination of the seeds.

Keep Your Landscape Hydrated

Keeping your lawn hydrated throughout the summer is vital, as most plants are still growing their roots late in the season and preparing for the cooler months. Ensuring the roots stay watered means healthy root growth and more robust plants in the spring.

Prevent Fungal Growth

Avoid leaving grass clippings and thatch build-up on the lawn, as this fosters fungus growth. The combination of cooler temperatures along with blocked sunlight at the ground level creates a perfect environment for fungus to thrive. 

Pruning to Maintain Health and Tidiness

Anything that looks dead or dried out should be deadheaded or removed. Parts of trees, shrubs, bushes, and other plants should also be trimmed. All wilted flowers should be cut off to keep gardens tidy and encourage new growth.

Remember, even the most stunning lawns aren’t naturally so. Creating and nurturing a beautiful landscape demands dedication and hard work. Implementing these steps now can rejuvenate your property and prime it for the upcoming spring and summer.

Landscaping doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Contact the pros at T&T Property Maintenance to discover how we can help you create beautiful outdoor spaces for your business.  

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T&T Property Maintenance has been visualizing, creating, and maintaining commercial properties since 1997. We offer a vast number of services for our clients, including lawn and landscape maintenance, irrigation set up and repair, fertilization, weed and pest control, snow plowing and salting, and tree trimming and stump grinding. We are licensed with the Michigan Department of Agriculture, so you can rest assured we will do the job right – every time. We work with commercial businesses of any size and offer our services in seasonal or yearly packages, and a la carte. For over 20 years, we believe a satisfied customer is the only kind of customer. Call or e-mail us to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

The Perks of Using a Mortgage Broker

Mortgage brokers are intermediaries between real estate purchasers and loan agencies. They help borrowers find a lender with the best terms and rates based on their monetary requirements. Experienced mortgage brokers can save a borrower time, effort, and money. They also have access to more lenders. Working with a skilled and knowledgeable mortgage broker can help you obtain the appropriate loan for your needs at the best rates.

What is the Difference Between a Mortgage Broker, Lender, and a Loan Officer?

Mortgage Broker

Mortgage brokers are oriented toward completing real estate transactions as a third-party mediator between the borrower and the lender. They collect in-depth information from potential borrowers to pass along to potential lenders to find the best loan for their clients. Once a broker finds the perfect lender, they collect the necessary paperwork to secure the loan for both parties. 

Lender

A lender, which could be a bank, credit union, or another financial institution, provides funds for real estate transactions. The borrower repays these funds along with a predetermined interest over a set period. While home buyers can approach lenders directly for a loan, some lenders only work through mortgage brokers. Hence, if a borrower prefers a lender, they would need to engage a mortgage broker.

Loan Officer

A loan officer is an employee of a lender who assists borrowers with the loan process. They provide information about the lender’s loan offerings, answer queries, help borrowers get pre-qualified, and support the application process. They can also advocate for borrowers during the loan closing process.

How to Find a Mortgage Broker You Can Trust 

  • Ask friends, neighbors, and relatives for referrals 
  • Look at online reviews 
  • Meet with prospective brokers to see how they can help you 
  • Ask about their experience, fees, and how they are paid 
  • Find out whether they can help you with your specific financial circumstances

What Are the Advantages of Using a Mortgage Broker?  

A Broker Saves You Time

Mortgage brokers have deep connections with a variety of lenders nationwide. Essentially, they can find you a lender with the best rates and terms, and they can steer you away from lenders with challenging payment terms buried in their mortgage contracts. 

A Broker Has Better Access

Accessing some lenders directly for a retail mortgage may not be possible, as they may choose to work exclusively with mortgage brokers, depending on them to introduce suitable clients. Additionally, since brokers bring in a substantial number of borrowers, lenders are more apt to offer them lower rates in return.

A Broker May Reduce Fees

Remember to consider the small details, such as the additional fees associated with a new mortgage. These can include origination fees, application fees, and appraisal fees. Often, mortgage brokers can request lenders to eliminate some or all of these charges, potentially resulting in considerable savings for the borrower.

Working with a mortgage broker could be advantageous if you’re seeking a home loan, have less than ideal credit, operate your own business, or desire guidance through the mortgage process. Additionally, they can often assist in obtaining loans with lower interest rates compared to most commercial loans available to the general public.

For nationwide specialty lending, refinancing, or purchasing your first home, EB Mortgage is your source for low wholesale rates – call today to learn more!

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EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today!  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

The 3 R’s: Replastering, Resurfacing, or Replacing Your Pool

Just like a house, pools are comprised of several components, which do not all need to be remodeled simultaneously. For example, a pool surface can be replastered while saving the tile, or the lights, fittings, plumbing, and equipment can be improved on their own. Pool renovations also include interior plastering, refinishing, tile work, coping, and updates to outdoor features. Water features can be added, along with benches, spas, rock rivers, etc. But what are the differences between resurfacing, replastering, or renovating/replacing your pool? Read on to learn more. 

When clients request a new pool surface, they typically look for pool resurfacing or replastering. The price can vary since the project focuses on the pool’s interior (walls and floor). There are two main factors when estimating a pool resurfacing project, including the size of the pool and the type of finish.

Replastering a Pool
This process involves removing the existing layer of plaster from the pool’s surface by chipping or sandblasting and applying a new layer. Replastering is typically executed when the old plaster is cracked, rough, or stained, so any damage to the pool’s surface is repaired before the new layer is applied. The new layer of plaster can last for roughly eight to 10 years and provides a smooth, durable finish. When replastering occurs, the pool must be completely drained, which could take several days and require more water to fill later.

Resurfacing a Pool
With resurfacing, aggregate, plaster, or tile can be used to add a new layer of material on top of the existing pool surface. Resurfacing is quite durable and can last up to 25 years. Resurfacing is intended to improve the durability of the pool’s surface and remedy cosmetic damage such as discoloration, staining, and chalking. This process can be done without draining the pool, but the durability will decrease if the pre-existing pool’s surface has significant damage.

Overall, the life span of a pool’s surface depends on water chemistry, weather, age, and more. Depending on the type of finish, size, and plumbing requirements, a pool remodeling job can range from $3,500 to $12,000, but a high-end, custom project can cost around $25,000. 

The choice between replastering and resurfacing depends on the condition of the pool, the expected outcome, and budgetary funds. The state of the pool can be assessed by a professional who will provide recommendations for the best course of action. Regular cleaning can help extend the life of the pool surface and postpone the need for either replastering or resurfacing.

Replacing a Pool

Regrettably, some aging pools may be beyond feasible restoration for swimming purposes. This likelihood increases the longer the pool remains neglected and unused. If you have a pool at your home that isn’t worth the restoration cost, you’re presented with two primary decisions: Should you fill in or replace your old inground pool? If you no longer want a pool, the answer is obvious; however, if your existing pool is not the right size, shape, depth, or material – or if it has too many costly repairs, it may be wise to replace it and start with a new one.

At Pound Pool Plastering, we specialize in replastering and refinishing pool surfaces. Contact our experts today to learn more. 

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Fishing for Survival

Fishing is one of the best ways for inexperienced hunters to gain momentum. While protein and fats are difficult to find in plants and lean mammals such as rabbits, they are rampant in fish. Fishing is great for beginners and possible in nearly every area worldwide. 

Modern fishing requires basic gear such as a spinning rod, reel, hooks, fishing line, worms, jig heads, single-tail grubs, and bobbers. In most areas, fishing licenses are also required, which are handled by the state. 

There are two types of fishing: active and passive fishing. Active fishing involves casting a rod and reeling in a fish or using a spear or bare hands to catch your meal. Passive fishing is when you set up a net, trotline, or trap to catch fish, enabling you to be elsewhere.  

The best solution to bait fish is obviously to use something they are enticed to eat, such as a worm or a shiny object that glimmers underwater. Other types of live bait include crawfish, tadpoles, small fish, or salamanders. Many of these slimy creatures can be found under rocks near the water’s edge or on moist ground that can be easily dug into. 

Almost all natural bodies of water have fish, but the challenges of catching them can arise based on weather patterns, water ecology, and time of day. The best times to fish are when they are most hungry, at dawn or dusk. Keep this in mind when feeling discouraged. Also, ensure the area chosen can provide cover, structure, and changes in the water.

Certain techniques can help you catch fish, such as jigging, which is where the bait skips along the bottom of the body of water and reels in. Let it sink again, and repeat. Twitching the bait is done by twitching the rod around in short bursts after the lure is in the water. This erratic movement makes noise and draws attention to your lure. Jerking the bait is similar; however, you use longer, slower movements and sweep the rod back and forth while reeling in.

When it comes to fishing, patience is imperative. The fish will spook and swim away if you yank on the rod too quickly. When you feel a nibble, wait a few moments, promptly jerk up, and steadily reel the fish in, allowing only brief breaks for rest without giving any slack to the fish to build momentum and break the line to swim away. Check the basket funnel trap, gill net, trotline, or fishing weir regularly for passive fishing. Be sure to reset your traps for ample opportunity.

The best way to enjoy fish is to cook it to 145°F to kill any parasites that might be present. If cooking isn’t available, it’s best to eat saltwater fish raw because the salt decreases the chance of parasites. Freshwater fish should not be eaten raw. If not eaten immediately after catching it, preserve the meat or use a holding tank to keep the fish alive until you are ready to eat. 

Some traditional methods of storing fish include freezing, canning, smoking, salting, and pickling. 

Looking for more survival tips and how-tos? Check out our blog at Wolf Survival Gear to find the information you need.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you need it later. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Enhance Your Business with Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is essential to boost your brand and increase leads and sales. Online marketing consists of Pay-Per-Click (PPC) ads, social media posting, email marketing, and organic Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Embedded in all this includes optimized code with rich keywords and content for search engines to find the data they’re looking for, along with engaging design work.

The umbrella of services that fall under digital marketing is overwhelming for most businesses to do on their own properly. That’s why you’ll find so many companies specializing in the field. The problem is some often forget about reviewing, scrutinizing, tweaking, and making the necessary adjustments to optimize your online presence. This is done through a process called web analysis; without it, you may just be throwing your money out the window. 

Digital Marketing Strategies

Email Advertising

One of the best ways to market your business is by emailing customers and subscribers about your latest happenings. This low-cost, high-return-on-investment advertising method informs viewers about upcoming sales, promotions, and more. Also, it’s easy to determine who clicked to open the email, what links they searched, and if a purchase resulted. Setting up automatic emails welcoming new customers and announcing quarterly discounts or reminders for an abandoned cart are good ideas too!    

Paid Online Advertising

To boost your online presence and get on top of search results, paid ads are the fastest way to make that happen. When you advertise on either Google or Microsoft Bing, you pay when someone clicks on your ad, or you can pay per impression of your ad. Pricing is based on budgets, competition, and how well your webpage relates to the advertisement and keywords. It’s ideal for strategizing and using search terms and key phrases with high search volume and a low cost per click. Keep in mind, if you’re in a saturated market, such as the mortgage industry, you’ll have to spend more money to keep up with the other top competitors’ listings.

Social Media Marketing

Regularly posting to your social media platforms, such asFacebook, Instagram, Twitter (recently rebranded as “X”), LinkedIn, etc., are easy ways to stay “alive” virtually. You can target specific groups and locations with paid ads or post for free and enhance with paid boosts. A big factor in social media is to get more followers, fans, and likes to expand your reach. The greater your following, the greater your potential to generate more leads, thus sales. 

Search Engine Optimization

Content is king, along with proper coding and utilizing best practices to maximize your digital presence organically. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is an evolving strategy that requires some knowledge, dedication, and patience. Aged and secured websites will gain authority in organic rankings, and more so with strong, relevant descriptive content. It’s important to accurately use and assign keywords within titles and descriptions for Google and Microsoft Bing searches to scan and find your related content for viewers to read.

Advertise via Blogging

Blogging for your business functions like social media marketing; instead of posting graphics and reels, you publish articles with descriptive content such as this. It’s another method to keep your online presence active while sharing tips, resources, and such with viewers. When properly listed, using meta descriptions, titles, etc., blogging can help improve your rankings on search platforms. It’s another avenue to generate good content about your business or industry – and attract more followers and potential customers. 

Using Web Analytics to Measure Online Marketing Success 

Digital marketing is incredibly beneficial for small and medium-sized companies that wish to engage with their audience, reduce costs, and build consumer trust. With online marketing, businesses can suggest users to “shop,” “learn more,” “call now,” and more. Digital campaigns are more thorough than traditional marketing, thanks to modern technology.

By examining your analytical web data, we can learn how visitors behave while viewing your ads, newsletter, and website – something you can’t really gauge from television or radio ads. With proper tracking established within the code, online advertising gives us measurable information to determine the success of the particular strategy used. We can discover where your viewers are located, the device they visited your website from, how long they spent on it, how visitors found it, and the keywords they used to get there. Additionally, we know how many people see your ad, how many times it was displayed, and how many conversions it made.

Continuous monitoring of your website traffic and online advertisements allows us to make calculated decisions to manage and improve your rankings, user site sessions, and ROI (return on investment.) Digital marketing is an evolving practice that takes skill, organization, and time. What works for one business probably won’t work for another. Each company deserves its own unique marketing plan, and they should all start with an audit to learn the ins and outs of the current strategy and what’s been attempted before.

If you want to grow your online presence and increase sales, contact the Creative Programs and Systems experts today! We offer free, no-obligation consultations. 

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Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems provides professional results for all computer needs. We design, create, and code an array of custom software programs and websites; offer top-notch digital marketing services including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising; repair and provide support for computers of both residential and professional nature; build custom systems and servers, and offer secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call us at 810-224-5252 or e-mail info@cpsmi.com.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Electrical Contractor Roles & Responsibilities

Electrical contractors are essential to the construction and maintenance of both residential and commercial buildings, as they ensure the safe and efficient operation of electrical systems, ranging from basic lighting to complex network installations. Read on to discover more about this exciting career!

What is an Electrical Contractor?

Electrical contractors are responsible for the planning, installation, and upkeep of electrical systems in structures like homes, offices, and industrial buildings. This term not only refers to the companies offering these services but also to the individual workers who physically carry out the tasks.

Electrical contractors are broadly categorized into three main types:

Inside Electrical Contractors: Serve as the main contractor for all aspects of electrical systems, including cabling design, installation, and maintenance for industrial, commercial, and residential buildings. They deliver electrical services to any structure within the property’s boundary, which includes outdoor lighting and substations. 

Outside or “Line” Electrical Contractors: Service outdoor, high-voltage electrical needs, such as linemen who work on transporting electricity generated at a power plant through power lines and substations to power buildings and homes.  

Integrated Building Systems Contractors (IBS): Oversee the low-voltage electrical aspects of a building’s integrated systems, such as access and climate control, networking, energy-efficient lighting, telecommunications, security systems, and more.

What Does an Electrical Contractor Do?

Electrical contractors are essentially electricians, but not all electricians are electrical contractors because the term also refers to companies that employ them. While the day-to-day activities of electrical contractors vary depending on their specialty and the project at hand, some of their responsibilities include: 

  • Troubleshooting electrical systems 
  • Installing, maintaining, and upgrading electrical systems
  • Project management
  • Managing client relationships

Skills and abilities required for electrical contractors include: 

  • Color vision 
  • Endurance/strength 
  • Communication 
  • Attention to detail 
  • Business knowledge
  • Motor skills
  • Schematic comprehension 
  • Intermediate math level

How Much Does an Electrical Contractor Make?

Your salary as an electrical contractor is not solely determined by your training and experience but also by your geographical location within the U.S. On average, you can earn between $18.00 and $30.00 for electrical apprentices and between $37.00 and $52.00 for master electricians. Demand is another factor that may increase wages, and electricians are currently in high demand.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects electrician opportunities will increase by eight percent between 2019 and 2029, which is faster than the projected growth for all U.S. jobs over the same time period, at half or four percent. 

If you’re interested in getting into the field, State Electric Company is hiring electrical apprentices and journeymen. Visit our careers page to learn more and apply online.

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State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge of renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Commercial Landscape Maintenance

Your business’s exterior landscape is often your customer’s initial encounter when they visit – and this visual first impression carries significance. Is your landscaping aesthetically appealing by exhibiting neatness and beauty, or does it showcase a collection of weeds and rodent damage?

At T&T Property, we keep commercial properties in Livingston and Oakland Counties in tip-top shape with services ranging from lawn maintenance, fertilization, weed and pest control, and irrigation set up and repair.

What is Commercial Landscape Maintenance?

Commercial landscape maintenance involves the strategic planning, designing, and ongoing care of a business’s outdoor environment, ensuring its appeal and welcoming ambiance. The process not only maintains the curb appeal of a commercial building but also promotes the safety and usability of the property. It encompasses the removal of debris, like fallen leaves and branches, and keeps the area immaculate throughout the year.

Standard packages typically include mowing and ornamental care. Plans are customizable to cater to customer needs, such as periodic fertilization, weed control applications, and applying seasonal pest control measures.

What Are the Benefits of a Commercial Landscape Maintenance Program?

Maintaining any landscape, particularly a large one, can become a manageable task with a structured commercial landscaping plan. Considering this, we list the advantages of implementing a comprehensive commercial landscape maintenance program:

  • The promise of lush, green grass that visually pleases and feels soft.
  • Flourishing and healthy flower beds that add vibrance.
  • Tidy and weed-free planting zones that enhance neatness.
  • Shapely and well-tended shrubs and greenery.
  • Creating welcoming, tranquil outdoor spaces for the enjoyment of your clients, visitors, and employees.
  • A pest-free area using wildlife pest control management.

Commercial landscape maintenance programs cater to a property’s landscaping requirements, saving valuable time for business proprietors and administrators.

What Does a Commercial Landscape Maintenance Program Include?            

Most landscaping firms customize their commercial offerings to match the individual requirements of their customers. However, most packages commonly incorporate the following services:

  • Trimming and pruning trees and hedges ensure they are safe, healthy, robust, and aesthetically pleasing.
  • Mowing and edging regularly as scheduled to maintain your lawn’s tidiness, health, and greenery.
  • Weed management by frequently treating and eliminating harmful and invasive weeds.
  • Mulching and fertilizing regularly to help retain moisture, keeping your landscape green and lively throughout the seasons.
  • Irrigation, drainage inspection, and repair, which may involve implementing a new irrigation system or adding drainage to avert flooding.
  • Tree care ensures that your trees remain healthy and robust, providing shade and enhancing the beauty of your landscape. 
  • Removing leaves, branches, and other debris throughout the year, providing a clean and clutter-free landscape.
  • Setting up preventive measures against pests such as moles and gophers to keep your lawn lump free and avert damage to landscapes, lawns, and flower beds.
  • And much more.

How Much Does a Commercial Landscape Maintenance Plan Cost?

It depends on the size of your property, the number of garden areas you have, and the specific services included in the package. Below are a few factors that will determine the cost:

  • Maintenance Frequency: The overall cost will escalate based on the frequency of maintenance services required.
  • Property Size: The acreage or square footage for property maintenance will determine the cost. Obviously, the larger an area, the more expensive it will be to maintain, as an increase in the workforce and equipment are necessary.
  • Required Services: Full-suite maintenance programs will be more costly than basic moving services. Premium services like ornamental plant care and irrigation may carry a higher price tag than base care. 

Looking to set up a commercial landscape maintenance plan? Contact T&T Property Maintenance to schedule a free estimate today!

T&T Property Maintenance has been visualizing, creating, and maintaining commercial properties since 1997. We offer a vast number of services for our clients, including lawn and landscape maintenance, irrigation set up and repair, fertilization, weed and pest control, snow plowing and salting, and tree trimming and stump grinding. We are licensed with the Michigan Department of Agriculture, so you can rest assured we will do the job right – every time. We work with commercial businesses of any size and offer our services in seasonal or yearly packages, and a la carte. For over 20 years, we believe a satisfied customer is the only kind of customer. Call or e-mail us to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Removing PFAS From Your Drinking Water – Farmington Hills, MI

PFAS in Drinking Water: Analyzing Health Risks and Methods for Elimination

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, comprise a family of synthetic chemicals in production and have been utilized across various industries since the 1940s. These chemicals are frequently incorporated into products such as Teflon, water and stain-repellent fabrics, paints, waxes, and firefighting foams. The latter being a significant contributor to groundwater contamination near airports, military bases, and firefighter training facilities. There is a growing concern as these chemicals have been identified in alarming concentrations in drinking water sources throughout the United States.

PFAS chemicals, particularly PFOA and PFOS, have been the most widely manufactured and studied. They persist in the environment due to their long half-lives and can accumulate in the human body over time. Studies indicate that exposure to these substances can harm human health. In response to these findings, production of these chemicals has ceased in the United States. However, they are still manufactured in other nations, and products containing these chemicals could be imported into the U.S.

Considering the potential health risks associated with PFAS, it is vital to consider strategies for eliminating or reducing their presence in drinking water sources. Various filtration methods can be effective in removing these chemicals from water. Understanding the gravity of the issue and adopting effective measures can contribute to safeguarding public health.

Health Impacts of PFAS Contamination in Water

Exposure to PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, has been linked to various adverse health effects in humans. When humans or animals consume these chemicals, whether through food or water, they are absorbed and can build up in the body. Since PFAS has a protracted presence in the human body, continuous exposure from various sources can cause levels to escalate. Over time, this can reach a critical point where individuals experience detrimental health consequences.

Research has demonstrated that two specific PFAS chemicals, PFOA and PFOS, have the potential to induce a variety of adverse effects. In laboratory animals, these substances have been shown to affect reproductive and developmental processes negatively, cause damage to the liver and kidneys, and impair the immune system. Additionally, PFOA and PFOS have been associated with animal tumor development.

In human studies, the most consistent outcome associated with PFAS exposure is elevated cholesterol levels among those exposed. There are also more limited findings linking exposure to changes in infant birth weights. Specifically, for PFOA, there is some evidence of a correlation with cancer, while PFOS has been connected with disruptions to thyroid hormone levels.

Given the potential ramifications on health, it is vital to be vigilant about PFAS exposure, mainly through drinking water, and take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with these chemicals.

Removing PFAS From Drinking Water

Several technologies can be employed to effectively eliminate PFAS, particularly Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), from drinking water. Among these, ion exchange, activated carbon adsorption, and reverse osmosis have proven highly effective. For residential settings requiring whole-house filtration, ion exchange systems with a dual-tank design are emerging as a superior option due to their enhanced safety and effectiveness. This involves exchanging ions between the contaminants and a medium. At the same time, activated carbon adsorption traps contaminants on carbon particles, and reverse osmosis uses a semi-permeable membrane to filter out PFAS.

Reverse Osmosis: A Filtration System to Remove PFAS in Water

Reverse osmosis, a technology that employs a membrane for filtration, can be effectively utilized as a point-of-use system for purifying water from PFAS. This can be set up at specific water outlets, such as kitchen sinks, where it directly feeds a designated drinking water tap and appliances like ice makers or refrigerator water dispensers. The reverse osmosis system can be conveniently installed under the kitchen sink or in the basement beneath it, with a pipeline running up to supply the dedicated faucet.

To learn more about PFSAs, visit www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Green Building Trends to Watch

The Center on Global Energy Policy reported that the worldwide buildings sector uses roughly 30 percent of energy for natural gas, electricity, heating, cooling, lighting, equipment, cooking, and more. Decarbonization is an important factor when it comes to the construction sector. With global warming on the rise, eco-friendly commercial buildings are in high demand, especially considering the large amount of non-renewable resources used for energy. Several environmental trends are on the rise; keep reading to learn more about them. 

Water Conservation
Rainwater capture and other water-conservation methods are being tapped into by cities, hoping to lower their burden on supplies. Decades of drought have forced reclamation facilities to examine below-normal water storage, so onsite water reuse systems have been gaining popularity worldwide. These treatment techniques collect water from stormwater, wastewater, and rainwater. Moreover, the non-potable water is reused for outdoor irrigation and flushing toilets. Smart water systems also inform property managers about water consumption, leaks, malfunctions, or other issues. Electric water heaters are also on the rise, as these help decrease fossil fuel dependence.

Renewable Energy Generation
Photovoltaic systems and solar panels are used for renewable energy generation and energy storage, lowering s a building’s carbon footprint and utility bills. Between January 2022 and January 2023, the price of energy rose almost 13 percent. Ultra-large batteries store electricity so buildings can use it as a reserve when necessary. Energy-efficient heat pumps and solar panels benefit builders, as they can provide sizable savings for electricity usage.

Inflation Reduction Act
The United States’ largest climate investment initiative of all time, dubbed The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), was signed into law in August 2022. Millions of dollars of rebates and tax credits for greener and more energy-efficient building upgrades are being set by the IRA. With more energy-efficient HVAC systems, electric ovens, water heaters, etc., IRA incentives will be more attainable.

Energy-Efficient Equipment
Environmentally friendly equipment is on the rise as many buildings switch to all-electric Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) technology, zoning, and smarter system controls. VRF technology allows a building to be split into several zones for heating and air conditioning, depending on what is needed. Zoning is based on smart controls that improve energy usage for architects, builders, engineers, and building owners. 

Building Materials
The IRA denotes funding to the General Services Administrator (GSA), as listed in Section 60503, for construction materials and low-embodied carbon rates for governmental construction projects. As these energy tactics expand, the market is expected to grow. Window glazing can reduce a building’s energy usage, as can photovoltaic windows, which can lend solar power to the building and reduce carbon emissions by up to 40 percent. 

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State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge of renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Pool Surface Options

Concrete is often used to build swimming pools despite the fact that the material is extremely porous. Pools made solely from concrete would leak. To seal the concrete, a non-porous material is applied to make the surface of the pool resistant to moisture.

Whether the pool is new or refurbished, the surface finish makes all the difference. The main options for pool finishes include plaster, aggregate, and tile. Cost is generally the deciding factor when it comes to surfaces. The main contributors to price include the pool size, the region you’re located in, and the material you use. Read on to learn more about the four main pool finishes.

Aggregate
This type of finish has been gaining popularity in the past few decades and is considered by many to be the most desirable pool surface. Aggregate typically consists of river pebbles, stones, ceramic-coated crystals, or glass. All surfaces can be either exposed or polished, resulting in a texture that is smooth or bumpy. Pools with aggregate finishes are typically more durable and chemical-resistant than plaster. Exposed aggregate can last between 15 and 20 years with few issues besides potential fading or discoloration.

Plaster
A three-quarter-inch layer of dense mortar applied to the interior pool surface makes up plaster finishes. Roughly 200 proprietary blends exist, but they are all cement and sand mixed and troweled. One of the most popular – and oldest – pool finishes, plaster has been in use since the 1960s. While the surface is hard, it feels smooth and looks white. The light color makes the pool water appear more bright, clean, and blue. Plaster does require some maintenance, as it stains and collects algae more than aggregate or tile. Plaster is the cheapest option but has the shortest lifespan at approximately ten years.

Tile
Tile is the newest pool surface material that can show off elaborate designs and shiny colors and offers a variety of possibilities for pool owners. Glass pool tiles are silicate and smaller than ceramic or stone. They come in various colors, textures, and shades. Glass tile is the most durable finish option, as it is resistant to chemical corrosion, fading, staining, and discoloration. Moreover, the surface integrity of the tile is maintained indefinitely. Tile is a modern option and look; reflecting the sunlight, it provides a bright alternative.

Paint
Lastly, painting the concrete is an option for pool finishes. Though it sounds inexpensive, it can be costly, and the paint can bubble or chip. Also, the paint generally takes about two weeks to cure. However, with pool paint, you can create fabulous underwater murals that are shiny and reflective!

Looking to update the surface of your pool? Contact Pound Pool Plastering for an estimate today!

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or e-mail us for a free estimate.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/