tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31131845162190577052024-02-08T10:39:34.587-08:00Construction IndustryUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger10125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3113184516219057705.post-490446893497656452011-12-05T07:24:00.000-08:002012-03-03T07:25:42.856-08:00What Is Project Management in The Construction Industry?<div style="text-align: justify;">Managing a construction project is different from any other stream of management. High level of knowledge in advanced management techniques and the process of construction are required for the efficient management of a construction project. A project always has a well defined start and end date with a set of predefined objectives. The project is scrapped as soon as the goal is accomplished. The challenges and the targets of a construction project are specific. These projects are temporary in nature, and the management practices are different from that of repetitive business as usual activities. In spite of differences in procedures and technological requirements, a construction project has many similarities with projects in the filed of pharmaceuticals, energy, or aerospace sectors. Project Management Institute defines project management as a form of art that helps to reach a set of predefined goals in terms of scope, time, cost, satisfaction, and quality throughout the duration of the project with the use of advanced techniques of management and coordination of human, as well as material resources. The overall perspective of the management of a business or industry in general has a much wider scope and continuity. However, the principles of general management are widely used as effective project management tools because there are many similarities between the two.<br />
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Proper grasp of the advanced general management techniques and the specific domains relating to construction is considered to be imperative for successful project management. Knowledge of computer science and decision theory is also important in the context of efficient project management. Decision support systems and computer aided information systems were once considered to be no more than supporting tools in management. However, these are now the basic tools of any discipline of management. Other techniques of operations research like network analysis and linear programming have also become commonly practiced general management tools in the modern day management fraternity. Management of projects in the construction sector involves different types of conflict resolution. The operational objectives of a construction project get impacted heavily due to resource related constraints. Commonly conflicts take place due to constraints pertaining to manpower, finance and material resources. There can also be conflict between the different predetermined objectives of the project like quality, time, scope, and cost. It is extremely important to assess the chance of such conflict at the time of inception of the project so that proper agreements can be made without delaying the progress of the project.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
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Creating a blueprint of the project plan and the mission of the project is the foremost task of a project management team. This should involve selecting the project personnel, and clearly setting the performance standards for the project. Scheduling, budgeting, and clear demarcation of scope should also be a part of the blueprint. The project team must ensure efficient utilization of all resources by adhering to plan for the procurement of equipment, material, and labor. The team must be empowered within the organization to exercise control over the departments handling the project operations. The team must also develop a channel of communication across the departments for the resolution of conflict.<br />
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The Project Management Institute has pointed out some specific areas that require in depth knowledge for an efficient project manager. Management of project integration is important to ensure coordination between the different elements of the project. Time management of the project is also important for the scheduling of project. The potential risks for the progress of a project can be minimized by proper risk management. Different other faculties of management like human resource, procurement, quality, communication, etc are also highly recommended by the institute.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3113184516219057705.post-26634144867185700682011-11-03T07:22:00.000-07:002012-03-03T07:24:19.250-08:00Common Reasons to Employ Storm Drain Contractors<div style="text-align: justify;">Storm drain contractors are employed by General contractors to perform work on storm water drainage systems. This type of pipeline system is necessary for rerouting accumulated storm water runoff from ground surfaces such as roads, sidewalks, curbs, and parking lots.<br />
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Employing licensed and certified storm drain contractors is necessary when systems are installed or repaired. These systems have to be maintained on a regular basis to minimize risk of flooding and to check for large pieces of debris that can cause systems to backup and overflow.<br />
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Storm drainage systems are comprised of a series of water pipes, catch basins, and inlets. That latter two are devices that attach to subsurface pipes. They are positioned by roads, sidewalks, and curbs to filter debris and convey water to a discharge location.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
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Improper installation of storm water drainage systems can result in flooding or release of toxins into oceans, rivers, and streams. To minimize risks, storm drain contractors have to undergo extensive training to become certified in this field of work.<br />
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All materials and components used with these systems, along with installation processes, have to be in compliance with EPA guidelines set forth in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. NPDES is the governing body that regulates all sources that release pollutants into American waterways.<br />
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When contractors perform work related to commercial, industrial, institutional, or public works projects they need to have NPDES permits prior to starting work. When work is performed on residential storm water drainage systems that attach to public sewer lines or private septic tanks they are not required to acquire NPDES permits.<br />
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All drainage systems make use of filtration systems to keep large pieces of debris from being released into waterways. Contractors utilize a variety of filters which include geomembrane liners, storm water chambers, fabric filters and fossil filters.<br />
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During the design phase, engineers perform multiple calculations and evaluate a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is calculating the rate at which water accumulates uphill and travels downhill. Figuring out accumulation and flow rates is vital for determining the size of pipes that need to be used, as well as understanding the most effective discharge location.<br />
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There are times when discharge locations are a considerable distance from the storm drainage system. This often warrants making use of a detention pond to store excess water until it can be conveyed to the point of release.<br />
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Not only are detention ponds a good method for storing excess water, they also help protect property which is located below the storm drainage system. Furthermore, detention ponds help to regulate the rate at which water flows through outlet pipes.<br />
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Water flow rates are established by individual municipalities. Any time flow rates surpass allowable levels excess water is stored in detention ponds until it can be safely conveyed through water pipes to the designated discharge point.<br />
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Employing experienced storm drain contractors helps to accelerate pipeline construction projects while ensuring materials and installation procedures are in compliance with local and federal regulations. Due to the fact these systems are necessary for flood prevention it is crucial to hire reputable contractors that possess a superior record of construction safety.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3113184516219057705.post-24963210057826921552011-10-28T07:20:00.000-07:002012-03-03T07:22:12.179-08:00How To Decide When To Buy A New Or Used Dozer<div style="text-align: justify;">Bulldozers are essential for a variety of functions and can often be found on construction sites, military camps, engineering project venues, farms, mines and quarries. Any construction entrepreneur knows, thus, that bulldozers are necessary to deal with a wide array of construction works. And, no construction business would survive without bulldozers, so having them is a must.<br />
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Most construction business operators have quite a dilemma, when faced with the prospect of buying dozers for their businesses. Should you buy a used dozer? Or, should you go for a new dozer? If you can't make up your mind about it yet, the following suggestions may be able to get you of that rut.<br />
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Consider the following questions when choosing between a used dozer and a new dozer:<a name='more'></a><br />
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1. How much is your budget? Money is always an important factor when buying products. If you have a lot of it and you don't mind shelling out, a new dozer should not be a problem for you. New dozers come with price tags that may shock a more financially conservative entrepreneur. If you're looking for a more affordable bulldozer, used dozers are for you. Used dozers can be yours at a fraction of the price of brand-new bulldozers.<br />
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Aside from the buying price, though, you would have to incorporate maintenance costs to your overall budget. With new dozers, you would not have to worry about paying for after-sales operational costs, since you would be covered by a warranty program.<br />
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Buying used dozers don't necessarily mean, though, that you would have to start adding up future costs for malfunctioning spare parts and other maintenance costs, after you purchase your second hand bulldozer. Most providers of second hand equipment typically run extensive examinations before they agree to accept used dozers from sellers. So, many second hand bulldozers you would find for sale today are in great working conditions.<br />
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2. What type of quality are you willing to settle for? New bulldozers, seeing as they have not been used before, typically tend to be deemed as the better choice if this particular criterion is used. But, on this issue, new dozers don't automatically have the upper hand. Yes, whilst it may be true that new bulldozers can be expected to function better and longer - used dozers are not the almost-broken machines some people may think them to be.<br />
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Used dozers have as much functionality and effectiveness as brand-new dozers, especially when you choose the right one. Plus, used dozers come with Certificates of Thorough Examination to ensure that they would be able to do all that they are supposed to, in an excellent way.<br />
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New bulldozers and used bulldozers both have their strengths and weaknesses. If you're confused as to which you should choose among the two, considering the above questions may get you the answer that you need. Remember, new dozers and used dozers can both work for you, especially if you ensure that you would take proper care of them.<br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3113184516219057705.post-61652442545260094032011-10-05T07:19:00.000-07:002012-03-03T07:19:54.733-08:00The Benefits of Buying Second Hand Cranes<div style="text-align: justify;">Any business that deals with lifting, lowering and transferring heavy loads from one place to another relies a lot on cranes. These machines are instrumental in introducing functionality and are effective in achieving operational success to any business. This is why cranes are important additions to any construction business' team - and also why construction companies are always on the lookout for cranes that they can buy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
What a lot of them don't know, though, is that cranes are not only effective machines when they are brand-new. Second hand cranes are also good at fulfilling what their brand-new counterparts can do, only with more benefits.<br />
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Contrary to popular beliefs, buying second hand cranes is not the bad idea that you think it would be. There are a lot of good things that people can reap from considering cranes that have been used before.<a name='more'></a><br />
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First, you can save on money. Buying second hand cranes automatically allows you to pocket some of your cash. Second hand cranes are sold at a fraction of the price of brand-new equipment. This is a guaranteed way to cut costs, only with no compromise. See, you don't have to worry that a little money savings may mean a lot of undesirable business results for you.<br />
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Second hand cranes are not the damaged and broken equipment most people think they are. Sellers of second hand cranes have to conduct testing and inspections - that would ensure the crane is in great working order before it goes on the company's online gallery of products. Some sellers of second hand cranes even require a Certificates of Thorough Examination, which establish that the equipment is not going to give you any cause for grief, should you decide to buy it.<br />
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Third, buying second hand cranes is not going to be difficult. There are so many providers of second hand equipment today - that you would not have to worry about the possibility that you won't find a seller that can get you what you need. Online shopping for second hand cranes of good quality can even make the process more streamlined towards a successful completion. You have every chance to scout around for the best provider that you can find, at the best price that you can discover.<br />
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So, if you're thinking about checking one of these online providers of second hand equipment, you are in good hands. With many options and all the tools you can wield to find the deal most suitable to your needs and budget, you would surely be able to find cranes that you can use effectively. Just make sure that you do your research completely before you decide to give up your credit card to the company's online shopping tool.<br />
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Check that the company has a good reputation, and sells good second hand cranes. This way, you can be sure that you would not be disappointed either by the company's way of doing business, or by its second hand equipment.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3113184516219057705.post-64119633837007556092011-09-13T07:16:00.000-07:002012-03-03T07:17:31.499-08:00Where to Look for Eye Bolts and Dowels or Other Hardware Materials<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hardware items encompass a large number of parts and pieces important for various types of construction. Eye bolts, dowels, nuts & washers are small pieces of hardware items that fasten parts of a structure or furniture in place. For average persons, it can be difficult to differentiate one from another. Would you know where to find these items when you go to a hardware store to look for them?<br />
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Here is a breakdown of the four different pieces, their description and uses.<br />
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Eye bolts and Dowels<br />
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An eye bolt is a type of screw with a looped end used for tying cables. It is commonly used for hanging paintings or picture frames by a string to a wall. Other uses include as a locking mechanism or for building clothesline.<a name='more'></a><br />
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Dowels or dowel rods, on the other hand, are cylindrical rods used as either connectors between different parts of furniture, or fasteners. Examples of these are for connecting two wheels in toys, cabinet making, and supporting tiered wedding cakes. You can also get smaller variations of rods called dowel pins. Dowels come either in plastic, steel, or wood.<br />
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The main purpose of both eye bolts and dowels are to support two objects together. Without them, it can be impossible to build simple and stable structures.<br />
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Nuts & washers<br />
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These pieces are fasteners for bolts. The difference, however, comes from their appearance.<br />
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Nuts are thick hexagonal fasteners with a threaded hole at the center. Machines, structures or furniture frequently exposed to vibrations need fasteners to secure the screws in place. Different types of screws and bolts can easily rotate out of a socket due to vibrations or shock. Machines will break apart if the screws come off.<br />
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This can cause grave damages to properties or even cause injuries.<br />
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Washers are simpler types of fasteners, which are flat with a hole at the center. They come in different shapes and sizes. Different types include flat, split, star, and insulated washers. Like nuts, these items aim to fasten screws and act as spacers. Steel and plastic are the most commonly used type of washers. Plastic washers are typical for faucets and valves. For steel, they prevent galvanic corrosion or the deterioration of two joint metal objects due to electrical contact.<br />
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You can easily find these items at the hardware store when you know their differences and purposes. If you cannot find eye bolts, dowels, nuts & washers in your local store, it is easier to purchase them online. Web retailers offer full description of their items; you can quickly browse through the items and find exactly what you need. Most web stores include images of the products they sell. Sizes and dimensions can be crucial to construction or repair so make sure you get the right materials. Online stores offer discounted deals and free shipping so it will save you time, money, and energy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3113184516219057705.post-30840440206596370412011-09-03T07:15:00.000-07:002012-03-03T07:16:30.653-08:00Changes In The CSLB Laws And Regulations: What You Need To Know<div style="text-align: justify;">Every year the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) makes new changes to its laws and regulations, which may cover construction bonds or the ability for a contractor to obtain a contractor's license bond. Here are the changes in laws and regulations the California CSLB made for 2012:<br />
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CSLB Licensing and Board Operations<br />
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The CSLB must now be notified within 90 days of a Responsible Managing Officer's (RMO) or Employee's (RME) disassociation from the license. The bill also enables a 90-day extension in limited circumstances to replace the qualifier for the license.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
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Employment and Payroll<br />
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The CSLB has increased the fines for contractors who fail to pay established wages on public works projects and for failure to provide certified payroll records in a timely fashion. They now also require the Labor Commissioner to notify the CSLB when it updates its lists for these violations, and to notify awarding bodies of the availability of debarred contractors on an annual basis. Additionally, certified copies of a contractor's payroll records must be made available to members of the Joint Enforcement Strike Force on the Underground Economy or other law enforcement on request. If requested, these records would not include information on the employees.<br />
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Energy Efficiency<br />
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The CSLB has authorized the California Energy Commission to assess administrative or civil penalties to contractors for violating energy efficiency standards. Public utility rebates or incentives are also prohibited unless the recipient certifies that the installation or improvement was completed by a licensed contractor and that the required inspections and permits were obtained.<br />
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Indemnification Clauses<br />
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Beginning in 2013, contractors are restricted from using indemnification clauses to pass through to subcontractors the liability for certain legal damages. Subcontractors would not have to pay for either accidental or deliberate harm caused by contractors, other subcontractors, or other parties. This law does not apply to certain contracts such as those governing public buildings, residential homes, workers' compensation agreements, and some insurance agreements.<br />
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State Taxes<br />
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In addition to the current disciplinary laws coordinated between the CSLB and the Franchise Tax Board, Department of Industrial Relations, and the Employment Development Department, the CSLB may discipline a license for failing to resolve outstanding final liabilities assessed by the Board of Equalization,<br />
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Small Claims<br />
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Small claims court jurisdiction has been raised from $7,500 to $10,000.<br />
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Other Changes<br />
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Contractors who certify that they have no employees and are exempt from carrying a workers' compensation policy are required to submit a new certification each time the license is up for renewal. C-39 roofing contractors must still purchase workers' compensation insurance coverage even if they certify they have no employees.<br />
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Workers' compensation insurers are also now required to report to the CSLB if a licensee's policy is cancelled as the result of a premium investigation or audit, or a misrepresentation that results in harm to the insurer without reimbursement being made.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3113184516219057705.post-4636068624402808602011-08-10T07:13:00.000-07:002012-03-03T07:15:37.061-08:00What Extensive Training Is Required For Optimized Construction Design?<div style="text-align: justify;">The person who oversees, plans and designs a building, whether a single story home or a 100 story high-rise is called an architect. The information below should help you choose an architect that is able to give you the optimized construction design you deserve.<br />
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An individual interested in pursuing an architectural career needs to have management skills, technical knowledge and understand business. These skills are just as important as the design aspect. They help guarantee the client receives building design optimization.<br />
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Education. Experience. Examination.<br />
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An architect usually has to have at least a degree in architecture from a college or university. This requirement is frequently satisfied by a two to three year internship. How long an internship is depends on the state or jurisdiction being practiced in. A series of exams or registration examination must be successfully completed prior to licensure.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
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Alternate Specializations and Specialized Architecture Courses<br />
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There has been a rise in the specializations within this profession, which helps provide clients with building design optimization. Many of the architectural firms are focusing on particular kinds of projects, technological expertise or the delivery methods of projects. Some firms have experts from related fields on their staff or are associated with companies that provide the skills necessary for the completion of a project.<br />
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Solution Architecture - Teaches how to establish information systems and technology infrastructure with the use of the IAF (Integrated Architecture Framework).<br />
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B & I Architecture - This course teaches how to start a business and information architecture using the IAF.<br />
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SOA Awareness for Consultants - Teaches commonly used architectural solutions in the field.<br />
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Business & ICT Alignment in Practice - Focuses on the strategic alignment of ICT and management.<br />
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Business Case for Architects - Concentrates on how to make architectural project choices based on the financial evaluations.<br />
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Architects may need to complete a variety of tasks for their client including:<br />
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- Auditing building costs<br />
- Report preparations<br />
- Designing buildings<br />
- Achieving development of client's needs<br />
- Instruct the design team<br />
- Hire various engineers<br />
- Schedule the engineers to co-ordinate with the design process timeframe<br />
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Local & Federal Jurisdictions<br />
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Comply with the local zoning and planning laws such as:<br />
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- Parking and handicap requirements<br />
- Height limitations<br />
- Land use<br />
- Requirements for transparency<br />
- If applicable, historic preservation restrictions<br />
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Documentation Preparation<br />
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- Construction drawings including specifications<br />
- Development & building permits<br />
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While the main function of an architect is design, there is a lot more to the job than that so finding experienced architects that can handle these other tasks is important. Today, with the multitudes of specialized firms and architects available to everyone today, finding one to give you the optimized construction design you need should not be a problem.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3113184516219057705.post-53425274404067035502011-08-03T07:11:00.000-07:002012-03-03T07:13:28.479-08:00Fire Protection Services Explained<div style="text-align: justify;">A fire escape approach and a handful of extinguishers are not all it takes to safeguard your company from the danger of a fire. Fire protection services implemented by trained professionals are a vital aspect of a thorough, compliant, fire protection strategy, but some people responsible for ensuring the safety of a building aren't aware of the simple elements that go into a complete fire protection strategy.<br />
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If you are one of these people, don't worry. Fire protection services typically fall into three types, and each one is outlined below.<br />
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DESIGN/INSTALLATION<br />
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Each fire sprinkler installation and fire suppression process is different. Prefabricated products that may be easily mounted new building or a restoration job simply can't be because each project is at least a little different.<br />
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When your fire protection service provider is taking care of your system, concerns such as the available water supply and purpose of the facility will be examined. A high-pile warehouse, a standard office and a welding facility have distinct requirements. If the business owner has any critical requirements, the planning step is when those questions will need to be considered. For instance, if the company intends to expand its existing building down the line or expand its storage potential, these big picture objectives have to be factors in your blueprint. Other concerns include those of the building's insurance underwriter. Sometimes a carrier's requirements could be more stringent than the standard rules.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
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After a layout has been developed your fire protection service specialist should deliver it to the proper government agency. In Indiana for instance, that is the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. Following acceptance of your design your provider will buy the suitable components for your design to be produced.<br />
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The installation operation might require from a few days to a few months, depending on the magnitude of the job and if it's brand new or preexisting construction. Commonly, an installation is going to take a little less than 20 percent more time inside a preexisting location compared to new construction. Beyond just the fabricated materials, set up involves unique hardware and trained technicians. If the project is occurring in a location that is already up and running, the specialists must also be respectful of employees and their schedules. Nobody wants avoidable chaos.<br />
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MAINTENANCE/INSPECTIONS<br />
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Regular inspections and servicing are necessary to preserving your business. It's not sufficient to develop and set up a fire sprinkler system. Just like your car or HVAC system, your fire protection system needs periodic inspections. Inspections also are a regulatory requirement related to NFPA 25, the National Fire Protection Association's Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems. These regulations are changed every few years, and that means you have to be certain you have a trusted adviser to keep you on top of your compliance issues and needs.<br />
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Your needs will vary from the requirements of other businesses. The kind of system you have installed, how old your installation is and any requirements dictated through your insurance agency are a few of the variables which go into figuring out the type and regularity of checks. Inspections may be as elementary as activating a control valve or assessing swivel couplings at the hydrant connection. When they are not nice and loose, a little lubrication might be the only thing that is required to get back to compliance.<br />
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A competent fire protection service specialist should execute selected assessments every 3 months for certain clients and conduct annual assessments for all clients. Extra maintenance checks might well be appropriate every decade or two to test things like sprinkler head operation. It is typical to go 10 years without having difficulties. If you have a modest problem or even a larger problem inside the first twelve months of installation, your fire protection service provider service provider will handle the repairs under warranty.<br />
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REPAIRS/SERVICE<br />
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If an organization is following its recommended inspection/maintenance timetable, service appointments to take care of problems are minimal. In that case the majority of repair requests are for a basic leak. The quality of the water inside your sprinkler system is frequently the culprit. When the water is inferior, the result is often corrosion, bringing about a seeping fitter or sprinkler head. A second offender will be the pipes in your system, which comes in various dimensions and materials. When you have a thicker wall, it is going to last longer.<br />
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Questions on the price of service/repairs? As with the majority of projects connected to building, labor and materials are driving elements in calculating price. Your fire protection service provider should be specific regarding likely expenditures.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3113184516219057705.post-41530954247673485892011-07-24T07:10:00.000-07:002012-03-03T07:11:52.579-08:00Life Cycle Cost Analysis<div style="text-align: justify;">One of the most important considerations of investors of energy-saving or green building project is knowing if and when the investment will pay off. In order to attract investors there must be assurances that their investment is profitable. Investors, owners and project managers employ various tools to evaluate fiscal feasibility and one of the most effective means for assessing total cost is the Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
LCCA is an assessment method that takes into account the fiscal aspects in the acquisition, ownership and disposition of building projects. It can also be brought to bear by project managers to weed out alternative possibilities and focus in on achieving project performance goals. When comparing two or more design alternatives, the Energy Life Cycle Cost Analysis (ELCCA) method can be used. ELCCA is a computer model that accurately quantifies different design alternatives.<a name='more'></a><br />
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Federal Requirements<br />
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LCCA makes use of systematic valuations and comparisons of available building design alternatives to determine the best choices in terms of total cost effectiveness including ownership, operations and maintenance of a particular building. It follows a set of life cycle cost methodologies and procedures under the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and is part of the Federal Energy Management and Planning Program. LCCA rules conform to the requirements of energy conservation legislation, including requirements defined by the NECPA and Executive Order 13423 also known as the Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management law.<br />
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Purpose of LCCA<br />
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In green building projects various costs can be identified that will eventually determine the project's Total Overall Cost of Ownership. These include: initial costs from purchasing, acquisition and construction; operation, maintenance and repair costs; replacement costs; disposal costs; energy costs; finance charges or interest payments; and other non-monetary costs that a project may incur.<br />
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In short, LCCA is used as a tool for determining overall cost of each design alternative for the purpose of identifying the choice that will provide the lowest TCA (Total Cost of Ownership) without compromising quality and functionality. When performed at earlier stages of a project, particularly during the design process, project managers can select which alternative will result in the lowest life-cycle cost.<br />
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Benefits of LCCA<br />
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LCCA is applicable not only to green building project initiatives but also capital investment decision making. It is very useful in identifying which building alternatives will provide the most cost-effective long term design. This establishes LCCA as a better tool for identifying the total cost of ownership compared to other methods that focus on first costs or short-term costs related to operations alone.<br />
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To illustrate the benefits of using LCCA we could determine if using a high-performance HVAC or glazing system is more cost-effective in the long term.. A critical part of this process is to take into account both short term and long term costs as they relate to ROI. It is often assumed that high initial costs may out-weigh long term benefits. This is not always true and can be proven using the LCCA methodology. It is also useful to note that LCCA can be applied to various levels of complexity in a project's life cycle, from start-up to disposition.<br />
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LCCA and Green Building<br />
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When considering energy use in cooling, heating, boiling, lighting and other operations, ELCCA can be an effective analysis and decision-making tool for selecting the most cost-effective system options. The report generated by the ELCCA modeling identifies and recommends the best and most cost-effective design alternatives for green buildings in terms of energy efficiency, comfort, productivity and health of the occupants.<br />
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ELCCA is performed as a non-static process and is continuously refined and adjusted whenever new alternatives are identified and adopted. The final design may be a combination of many decisions based on the identification and selection process defined by the ELCCA. These comparisons and decisions are properly documented with corresponding results in the final ELCCA report.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3113184516219057705.post-53741354639260808152011-07-13T07:05:00.000-07:002012-03-03T07:10:30.734-08:00Things to Consider When Hiring a Sewer Contractor<div style="text-align: justify;">Hiring a sewer contractor is necessary whenever new sewer systems are installed or old systems repaired or flushed clean. Since sewer pipes carry away toxic waste materials the system needs to be cleaned and serviced by experienced technicians. If not, raw sewage could be released into the environment.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Any time sewer contractor services are needed it's important to employ reputable companies that are experienced with the type of application involved. Contractors are required to obtain work permits, along with having a business license and insurance coverage prior to performing work on public or private systems.<br />
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Sewer pipe installation is a multifaceted process that necessitates precision craftsmanship. Serious consequences can happen if a system is installed improperly or later fails. For this reason, it's vital to hire contractors that are certified and licensed and have obtained specialized training for the scope of work involved.<a name='more'></a><br />
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Sewer contractors work closely with pipeline contractors in all sectors of construction including residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, and public works.<br />
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Residential sewer pipes carry away untreated sewage through city sewer lines or private septic tanks. Septic tanks are private systems because they do not connect to public systems. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining their system and making certain raw sewage is not released.<br />
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Commercial sewer pipeline is used to eliminate sewage from commercial buildings. These can range from an individual building to a large shopping mall or even a theme or water park. These systems make use of the public lines, sewer pipes, and combined sewage systems that transport wastewater to treatment facilities.<br />
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Industrial and institutional sewer systems require precision planning. Blueprints and materials must comply with county, state, and federal regulations, along with EPA guidelines. Since these systems are self-contained they require ongoing inspections to prevent release of toxic components into the environment.<br />
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Public works sewer systems are maintained by the county. Multiple residences are joined together by connecting pipes from their home to municipal pipeline networks. Wastewater is carried away through subsurface pipes to treatment facilities.<br />
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Numerous counties across the country are facing the expense of upgrading public sewer system networks. A lot of these systems are more than 100 years old and in desperate need of modernization. When systems are replaced throughout a county, sewer contractors are hired by the General Contractor.<br />
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For the most part, sewer systems make use of a gravity-powered system that carries sewage downhill. Whenever systems are installed at or below sea level a lift station is required to boost the elevation of pipes. Lift stations push water to gravity-powered systems that carry the waste to a treatment facility.<br />
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Getting sewage to treatment facilities is a complex process. It involves connecting sewer pipes, oil and water separators, laterals, and sewer manholes to create an underground matrix. Combined, these components can carry away millions of gallons of wastewater every day.<br />
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Any time sewer pipes are installed or in need of maintenance it is always recommended to hire experienced sewer contractors. Look for companies that employ certified and licensed contractors and have experience in the scope of work required. Also look for companies with a history of exceptional construction safety.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0