Thursday, May 31, 2012

When in Doubt, Get the Advice of an Arborist

Many homeowners whose established landscapes include mature trees find themselves questioning whether their trees need expert attention.  Most of the issues involve either disease or branches that pose a threat to the tree during a storm.  Such cases may require the advice of an arborist Seattle expert or a certified arborist in your area.

There are certainly a few things that a homeowner can do before calling an arborist.  Self-education is important and the first step you can take on your own is to identify the tree. There are many ways to gain knowledge about trees.  Your local library should have books for identification with pictures of the main components of the tree, like the bark and leaves and flowers.  In many counties throughout the U.S. there are horticulture offices sponsored by the state college with volunteers who are happy to help with identification and disease management.

In Pennsylvania, where I live, we have many Master Gardeners in these offices that are trained by Penn State's Agricultural Science Department.  They provide a service whereby the homeowner can send a sample of tree disease to the Penn State Agricultural Lab for identification and possible treatments.  As a follow-up to disease management, an arborist would be able to treat the disease and provide pruning and other necessary care.

To learn more about contacting a certified arborist visit this Seattle arborist website.

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

5 Tips to Avoid Common Workers Compensation Pitfalls


A work-related injury or illness can be very challenging for both the employer and their loved ones, not only financially, but also emotionally. Fortunately, in the United States employers are legally obligated to provide workers compensation, a type of insurance in the form of payment for lost wages and for medical expenses. However, it is the employee’s responsibility to make sure their claim is properly filed and that they receive their benefits. Although the process can appear simple, workers comp Dallas specialists, for example, who understand that it may be more complicated that it seems, help patients submit their claim. 

By learning of common mistakes that are often overlooked, an employee can better ensure their needs will be met. Employees who are in need of state workers compensation or believe that one day they will need it should consider these five points of advice. 
  1. Always report the injury, even in the case of minor injuries. An injury or illness that seems insignificant at first could worsen over time.
  2. Save any documents and medical reports and keep a log of the events of your injury claim. Some claims will not reach settlement for years.
  3. When talking to an employer or insurer, be careful with what you say as it could be used against you. First talk to a workers compensation Dallas specialist to learn how to approach these conversations.
  4. Upon returning to work, be sure not to exceed any limitation prescribed by your doctor. Neglecting medical advice can lead to the closure of your injury claim. 
  5. Talk to your employer and any specialists involved in your claim in a respectful manner. Rudeness or losing your temper could hinder your chances of a quick settlement.  

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

What Is a Hydronic Coil System?


The hydronic coil piping packages system as a heater system is one of the best choices today as it reaches every part of the floor and heats uniformly in such a way that the heat reaches the entire room with an even transition between the warm air and the cold air. The best type of system is a solar one, as it is noise-free, economic, safe and environmental friendly; this last characteristic has the endorsement of the World Health Organization endorsement. Since it has no harmful effects to our health this system is even recommended for hospitals and nurseries.

The hydronic floor system consists of a big radiator located under the floor of the room. This radiator is formed by a polyethylene coil piping packages with a special coating so that inside warm water can flows pre heated by solar energy. The water has a temperature between 90 and 110. This piping net can be covered with the type of floor of your choice. The system needs to have a low positioning as it won’t radiate energy in a downwards direction. In order to warm the upper surface of the floor, it is necessary to have a hydo resistant thermic isolation under coil piping packages

The floor with hydronic coil system, however, isn’t recommended for an existing house since this the piping nets coil hook-up kits are best installed during the construction of a new house.