Author: Steve Briggs

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Preventive and Biological Pest Control

Steve Briggs

Some pests can cause property damage and pose health risks. It is important to identify and treat them before they become a problem.

Understand the pest’s life cycle and behavior. Select pesticides that target the pest and do not kill beneficial insects. Eradication is rarely the goal in outdoor pest situations, except for foreign pests that can spread disease. Contact Pest Control Allen TX now!

Pest infestations can be costly, ruining property and posing health and safety concerns. But there’s a way to avoid pests altogether, and it saves money and hassle in the long run. Preventive pest control services are routine inspections and tailored interventions that prevent full-scale infestations and their accompanying damage, before they cause serious problems.

Regular inspections and tailored interventions are much less expensive than reactive treatments such as fumigation. Plus, it’s a lot easier to keep pests away when they don’t have a foothold in the first place!

Preventative measures involve removing the food, water and shelter that attract pests. This includes preventing access to structures by keeping trash receptacles closed, ensuring woodpiles are kept away from walls, and regularly sweeping and cleaning outdoor spaces. Also, deny pests water by eliminating puddles, and keep them away from your structure by pruning and maintaining trees and shrubs to remove roosting and nesting sites, as well as keeping grass and weeds cut short.

Thoroughly cleaning seldom used cupboards and storage areas several times a year, and vacuuming under furniture is another effective method of deterring pests. It’s also important to store foods in sealed plastic containers and to clean up spills and crumbs immediately.

In addition to these preventative measures, pest repellants can be effective. They work by mimicking the scent of a predator or a common odor that pests find offensive. Some of these repellants are sprayed around the exterior of buildings, while others are placed in cracks and crevices where pests hide.

Lastly, implementing an integrated pest management plan is another preventative measure. This includes learning about the specific pests you have, and options for controlling them. Getting to know your pests will help you detect their presence sooner, and it will make it easier to prevent them from breeding and infesting your home or business. If you do see signs of a problem, contact your pest control operator promptly to take action. The old adage is true – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Insecticides

Often the most effective and fastest way to control a pest infestation is by using insecticides. Insecticides can help ensure that the quality of crops isn’t compromised by insects, and they can also reduce the prevalence of plant diseases carried by pests. In addition, pesticides can be employed to decrease the number of damaging pests rapidly, especially if populations are large.

Insecticides are a broad category of chemicals that kill insects by disrupting their nervous systems, inhibiting insect growth, inhibiting energy production or acting as desiccants. They may be organic, natural or manmade. They are used to protect crops, increase yields, and to provide food for humans, animals and birds.

There are four commonly used inorganic insecticides. Arsenic, soap, boric acid and diatomaceous earth are sprayed on plants or ingested by insects to kill them. Arsenic and soap insecticides work by blocking nerve impulses at the neuromuscular junction, causing paralysis. Soap insecticides work by dissolving the waterproof wax on the outside of the insects’ bodies, allowing them to dehydrate.

Other common insecticides include contact, systemic and fumigants. Contact insecticides are sprayed onto the surface of the leaves or soil and poison the insects that come into contact with them. Contact insecticides are generally low in toxicity to humans and non-target organisms.

Organochlorines, developed in the 1930s and 1940s, are a class of insecticides that contain carbon, chlorine and hydrogen. These chemicals were widely used before being replaced by more environmentally friendly insecticides in the 1970s and 1980s. They can persist in the environment and pose a health risk to wildlife, fish and people.

Neonicotinoids, which are derived from bacteria and fungi, were the world’s most popular insecticides until they were linked to bee colony loss in 2018 [21]. They are neurotoxic to bees and other pollinators and can cause bee disease. Imidacloprid, clothianidin and thiamethoxam are all neonicotinoids.

Other common insecticides are hormone-based, such as insect growth regulators, which interrupt the development process of insects by altering the levels of certain chemical messengers, and molluscicides, which are used to control slugs and snails. Fumigants, such as mothballs, are used to control fabric pests by filling the air with a gas that renders them inert.

Biological Control

Biological control is the deliberate use of living organisms (predators, parasites, disease agents and competitors) that suppress pest populations. NIFA supports research in this area, which seeks to reduce our dependence on synthetic chemical controls. Research in this area looks for organisms that are highly specific to attacking only the target pest, avoiding unintended disruptions in surrounding ecosystems.

The basic idea of biological control is that predators, parasites and diseases can suppress or eliminate a pest species more effectively than chemical sprays can, and do so without the environmental drawbacks of persistent chemicals. A number of techniques can be used for biological control, but the two main approaches are Augmentive Biological Control and Classical Biological Control.

For augmentive biological control, a predator or parasite that already exists in a location is encouraged to multiply and suppress pests. Usually, the agent is identified in its egg, larval, or pupal stages, and is reared in laboratory conditions for release into the field. A good example is the lady beetle, which has been successfully used for several years to control weeds in soybean fields in Pennsylvania.

In classical biological control, government agencies sponsor expeditions to the locations of origin of a pest, or closely related species, to search for and bring back natural enemies that co-evolved with the pests. A rigorous quarantine process is applied to these organisms, and they are screened for their ability to survive in the new environment. Once approved for release, large numbers of the control organisms are released into the field. Depending on the particular organism, these may be spread through a variety of methods. Larger organisms, such as parasitoids, may be deposited in loose carrier material, sachets or cards adhered to the crop. Smaller organisms, such as fungi and viruses, may be drenched in water or sprayed on the crops.

After a period of time, the pest population is reduced to a point where it no longer causes economic damage. A typical classical biological control program may take six to ten generations to reach its goal. Biological control is more expensive than chemical control, but it is environmentally sustainable and often more effective.

IPM

Integrated Pest Management, or IPM, is a method of controlling insects, disease, and other undesirable organisms that interfere with agriculture, damage homes or natural areas, or threaten human health. IPM uses preventive measures to reduce pest populations and only resorts to chemical controls when other options aren’t viable. IPM methods are effective, highly ethical, and safe for the environment and people.

A key element of IPM is regularly monitoring pests and their environments to assess the level of risk. The UC IPM website offers a number of resources, tools and publications to help individuals develop their own IPM program.

First, growers must correctly identify the pest that has infested their plants or property. This includes knowing the insect’s life cycle and biology, determining how it can be controlled, and understanding what environmental factors might trigger future outbreaks of the pest. Once a pest has been identified, the grower can then decide whether action is required.

Next, the grower must determine how serious the pest infestation is and what the damage levels are. This is done by assessing the potential economic, health, and aesthetic damage of the pest population. A grower can then determine the action thresholds for the specific pest, which will vary depending on the type of plant and the environmental factors present.

Once a threshold has been determined, the grower can then choose the most appropriate control method for the situation. This will be a combination of biological, cultural and mechanical methods that are least harmful to the environment, other pests or the people who use or live on the land.

In addition, the grower must continually monitor the success of the chosen control technique. This is done through inspections, trapping and sticky bug monitoring, and using pest sighting logs. If the action threshold is not met, the grower must reassess and implement another control method.

Many IPM techniques are non-chemical, including removing the pests’ food, water and shelter sources or blocking access to their hosts. In addition, growers may try to encourage the growth of their natural enemies, which can often control pests in ways that are less invasive than applying chemicals. Examples of these methods include planting beneficial insects, introducing predators and parasites into an environment, and using physical controls like traps or barriers to keep pests out.

Concrete Contractor

What Does a Brick Mason Do?

Steve Briggs

Brick Mason Charleston SC construct, repair and rebuild structures made of brick. They use tools like levels, plumb bobs and trowels to make sure that the structure is level and secure.

They also mix mortar, a mixture of cement, sand and water, and apply it to the bricks to hold them together. Having the right skills and qualifications are essential to this job.

Brick masons work with masonry materials like bricks, stones, and concrete blocks to build a variety of structures including walls, patios, walkways, driveways, and other commercial or residential construction. They also install, repair, and maintain firebrick linings in industrial furnaces, kilns, and boilers. Other responsibilities may include:

  • Reading plans or blueprints.
  • Laying bricks or other materials according to the specifications in the drawings.
  • Cutting down the materials into smaller sizes.
  • Mixing and spreading mortar.
  • Cleaning surfaces at the end of a job.

Applicants for this position should have physical stamina and strength to perform physically demanding tasks, and they must be able to climb ladders or scaffolding as needed. They must have good hand-eye coordination and dexterity to handle tools and manipulate bricks, as well as excellent math skills for measuring dimensions and calculating quantities of materials needed for a project.

In addition to these qualifications, a brick mason should have a strong work ethic and a commitment to quality workmanship. They should be able to follow construction guidelines and safety protocols, as well as communicate effectively with other members of the construction team. They should have good problem-solving skills to overcome construction challenges and troubleshoot issues that arise during the course of a project.

A brick mason’s career trajectory can vary depending on their location and the availability of jobs. In areas where there is a high demand for bricklaying, brick masons can command higher salaries than those working in other types of construction industries. Those looking to advance in their careers may consider seeking additional certifications or specializing in particular fields, such as historic restoration or masonry project management.

A good brick mason job description can help attract qualified candidates for the position. It should clearly list all of the responsibilities and qualifications that are required for the role, so that potential candidates will know whether or not they have the skills and experience necessary to succeed in the position. This will save time for both the candidate and the employer, as it will eliminate applications from candidates who are not a good fit for the role.

Education and Training Requirements

Brickmasons use masonry materials such as brick, concrete blocks and stone to construct walls, walkways, buildings and other structures. They must read plans or blueprints and calculate the amount of materials needed for each project. They must also know how to cut and lay out building material, mix mortar and clean surfaces at the end of a workday.

Although formal education is not a requirement to become a brick mason, it is recommended that potential workers complete high school or earn a GED certificate. They can then enroll in a vocational school or community college program that offers programs in brick masonry. An apprenticeship is another option that offers on-the-job training for 3 to 4 years under the guidance of experienced brick masons. Apprentices usually receive about 50 percent of the wages paid to fully qualified brick masons. Apprenticeships may be sponsored by labor unions, contractor associations or by individual construction companies.

Once a brick mason has completed an apprenticeship, he can apply to obtain journeyman certification. This qualification demonstrates his competence and enables him to supervise other masonry workers. In addition to possessing technical knowledge and skills, a successful brick mason must be reliable and have a strong work ethic.

Many brick masons are members of labor unions such as the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers. In addition to providing benefits such as medical insurance, unions can provide career advancement opportunities for their members. With additional training, brick masons can move into supervisory roles or even become owners of their own masonry businesses.

Those interested in becoming a brick mason should take a career interest inventory and consider their preferences for different types of working environments and activities. Those with strong Realistic interests are likely to be happier in this occupation, as it involves a more hands-on approach to problem-solving and the use of physical tools and real-world materials. It is also important for potential brick masons to have strong Mathematical interests, as they will need to be able to accurately measure dimensions and prepare construction plans. They should also be comfortable using power tools and have the physical stamina for long hours of manual labor.

Work Environment

Brick masons work in a variety of settings, including residential and commercial construction sites. They may also work in collaboration with other construction professionals, including engineers and architects, to ensure that their brickwork complies with the project specifications.

Masons use their mathematical skills to accurately measure dimensions and calculate the amount of materials needed for each job. They also need to be able to mix mortar, which is a combination of cement, sand, and water, to the right consistency for each project. Masons may also need to excavate and prepare the site for construction, such as laying a foundation or removing existing materials.

The physical stamina required for this career is considerable, as brick masons must often lift heavy materials and tools. Their strength enables them to construct masonry structures that are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. In addition, brick masons must have good hand-eye coordination to handle their tools efficiently and accurately.

As they gain experience and expertise, brick masons can earn higher wages. In some instances, they can even take on supervisory roles within the construction industry, further enhancing their earning potential. Additionally, brick masons can choose to participate in various professional development activities and networking events to increase their knowledge base and stay abreast of industry advancements.

In this career, brick masons need to have a high level of self-motivation in order to perform their duties to the best of their ability. In addition, they must be able to handle the stress of working in a physically demanding environment, as well as the long hours associated with the job.

Brick masons typically have Realistic personalities, meaning they’re independent, stable, persistent, genuine, and thrifty individuals who enjoy tasks that are tactile, physical, or athletic. They also tend to have moderate Investigative interests, which suggests they like searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally. Finally, they prefer careers that allow them to utilize their problem-solving abilities and creativity. In addition to these personality traits, brick masons need a strong desire to create a positive impact on the built environment.

Salary

Brick masons are typically paid an hourly rate that varies according to the complexity of each project. A brick mason’s salary may also be affected by his or her experience, skillset, and location. Those with more experience can earn higher salaries, as well as take on supervisory roles and lead teams of brick masons.

Those who wish to become a brick mason can pursue an apprenticeship that lasts three to four years, during which time they learn on-the-job skills and complete classroom instruction from a skilled master mason. Once they have successfully completed their apprenticeship, they can apply for journeyman status, which allows them to work on their own and earn professional wages.

The work environment for brick masons is primarily construction sites, both indoors and outdoors depending on the project requirements. They frequently collaborate with other construction professionals, including architects, engineers, and contractors, to ensure that their brickwork is in line with the overall design and specifications of each project. Strong problem-solving skills are necessary for brick masons to navigate unexpected construction challenges and come up with innovative solutions that ensure that the final product meets the highest quality standards.

Masons also need to have a high level of physical stamina, as they regularly lift heavy materials and stand or lean over in various positions for extended periods of time. They must have good hand-eye coordination, as well as the ability to quickly and accurately measure and combine building materials.

In addition, brick masons must be able to read blueprints and calculate how much of each material they will need to complete each job. They must also be able to handle tools and power equipment effectively. As a result, the work environment for brick masons can be physically demanding and hazardous at times.

The brick mason career path is highly desirable for those who enjoy working with their hands and are interested in being part of a team of construction professionals. Those who are successful in this role can advance within the industry, becoming a senior brick mason or even becoming a general contractor.

Cleaning Services

Drain Cleaning – How to Get Rid of Clogged Drains and Sewer Pipes

Steve Briggs

Drain Cleaning Perth involves the process of removing organic debris that accumulates inside your home’s drain and sewer pipes. A clogged drain can lead to serious plumbing problems if not addressed quickly.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to keeping your drains clear. Routine drain cleaning will help prevent future clogs and reduce repair costs.

Many homeowners turn to liquid drain cleaner when they have a sizable clog that a plunger can’t break up. These products are widely available in stores and promise to dissolve even the most stubborn blockages quickly. However, if you opt for liquid drain cleaner, be sure to read the label carefully and follow all instructions for use. These potent chemicals can cause significant damage to your pipes if not used correctly.

Caustic liquid drain cleaners contain bases such as sodium hydroxide (lye) and caustic potash. These cleaners attract and dissolve organic materials such as hair, soap scum and grease that create clogs. They also release heat to melt congealed fats and other solid debris that clogs pipes. These types of cleaners are effective at breaking apart small clogs and may work well for kitchen or bathroom sinks. However, they’re not recommended for toilet clogs because they can damage the polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, pipes found in most homes.

Oxidizing liquid drain cleaners are a bit safer than caustic cleaners, but they still can cause serious damage to your pipes if not used properly. These cleaners often contain household bleach, peroxides and nitrates that cause the organic material in a clog to lose electrons, which oxidizes the clog and breaks it down into smaller molecules that can be washed away. These cleaners are typically heavier than water, allowing them to travel farther down a pipe and dislodge most clogs.

Liquid drain cleaners usually need to sit for a while to work, and they can leave behind a nasty chemical residue. Most of these products are also sold in single-use plastic bottles that contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution. If you must use a liquid drain cleaner, choose one that is biodegradable.

While liquid drain cleaners do dissolve some clogs, they’re not always successful and can actually make the situation worse. They also kill the bacteria in your pipes that help to break down organic waste and prevent clogs. If these beneficial organisms are killed, your pipes can become brittle and prone to leaks and corrosion.

Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are a common household product that is used to unclog sinks, tubs and toilets. These cleaners usually consist of strong acids or alkali ingredients that break down clogs by creating heat, melting grease, dissolving hair and other organic material. They are available in stores and can be easily purchased. However, these chemicals can be harmful to your pipes and your health. This is because they often emit toxic fumes that can irritate your nose, eyes and throat. Exposure to these chemicals over a long period of time can cause chronic respiratory problems.

There are many different types of chemical drain cleaners. The harshest type, acidic cleaners, contain hydrochloric or sulfuric acid. They create a chemical reaction that breaks down the clog by creating hydronium ions, which attract electrons from the clogged material and melt grease. This type of cleaner is very effective, but it can also be harmful to your pipes and cause corrosion.

Caustic drain cleaners, which are made of lye or potassium hydroxide, have a much higher pH level and are more gentle than acidic cleaners. They can dissolve hair, fats and oils. However, they may not be as effective against severe clogs.

Oxidizing cleaners contain ingredients such as bleach, peroxides or nitrates that release oxygen into the pipe. This process breaks down the clog and eliminates bacteria. They are effective against most clogs but are not as powerful against hardened materials, such as concrete.

Non-toxic drain cleaners use natural enzymes to break down clogs. These products are more environmentally friendly than chemical cleaners, but they are not as effective against tough clogs. These products usually require multiple applications before they are fully effective.

When using any type of chemical drain cleaner, it is important to follow the instructions on the label carefully. If you have any questions about the proper usage of these products, it is best to contact a professional plumber. Doing so will help ensure that you are using safe, effective products that won’t damage your pipes or harm your family. In addition, a professional plumber will be able to recommend the most effective and safest methods for clearing your drains.

Baking Soda & Vinegar

You may have used baking soda and vinegar for kid-friendly volcano science experiments, but these household staples can also serve as powerful chemical-free cleaning agents in your home. The reaction between the two creates carbon dioxide gas that lifts dirt and grime, and they’re readily available in your pantry. The bubbling action also helps to break down clogs in your drain.

Baking soda and vinegar lie on opposite ends of the pH scale: baking soda is highly basic, while vinegar is acidic. When the two chemicals are combined, they react to form sodium acetate and carbon dioxide. Sodium acetate can dissolve soap scum and mildew, but it’s less effective in removing mineral build-up from hard water.

The acetic acid in vinegar, on the other hand, is a strong deodorizer and can cut through grease molecules. Pouring one cup of baking soda followed by two cups of white distilled vinegar down your sink drain will help to remove gunk and unclog the drain. The solution should bubble and fizz, and then you can flush the drain with boiling water to finish the job.

Vinegar can also be used to clean and freshen your garbage disposal. Sprinkle one cup of baking soda down the disposal, then follow with a cup of vinegar. The fizzing action will help to lift food and rust stains. Pour the mixture down the drain, and then run hot water for one minute. Repeat as needed to keep your garbage disposal smelling fresh.

Use this homemade cleaner to wash your kitchen and bathroom surfaces. The baking soda and vinegar combination cuts through soap scum and lifts stains more effectively than store-bought cleaners. It’s also safe for all finishes, including natural stone.

The same vinegar-baking soda recipe can be used to clean your microwave and to polish wood. Just make sure that the area is well-ventilated and to avoid any spills, especially on your clothes or furniture. Sprinkle the powder over the surface, let it sit for a few minutes to loosen grime and dirt, then wipe away with a damp cloth. The mixture can also be sprayed on pet stains and left to sit for a while before vacuuming the area.

Salt & Boiling Water

You’ve probably heard that adding salt to boiling water causes it to boil faster. This is because adding salt elevates the boiling point of the water (a phenomenon known as boiling-point elevation). Basically, when you add any non-volatile solute to water it lowers its vapor pressure and therefore requires a higher temperature for it to transition from liquid to gas. You can test this by heating up pure water and a solution of 20% salt in water. The salted water will boil much more quickly than the pure water, even though it has a higher boiling point. Why is this?