Livingston Reporting - page 8

What is a Gunite Pool?

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Image of the Pound Pool Plastering team applying gunite to a pool.

While sitting poolside, you’re likely not considering what the pool is made of but rather just soaking in the rays and enjoying a cool beverage. However, if you’re in the market for a pool or need an upgrade to your existing structure, then this article might pique your interest. Read on to learn more about gunite, the strongest, most durable material used for inground pools.

What is Gunite?

Inground pools can be made from three different materials: vinyl liners, fiberglass, or concrete (aka gunite or sprayed concrete.) Gunite is the process of applying dry cement, blowing through a hose, and mixing it with water as it’s sprayed. Reinforced with steel mesh, the material is sticky and holds place once applied. It can be sprayed onto any type or shape of surface, including vertical or overhead areas.

It’s amazing how the original, gooey, and messy application process transforms into a beautiful, functional swimming pool. Although concrete isn’t easy to work with, it’s a proven winner for durability. Ancient Roman architecture is a prime example of the superiority of this dense industrial material that quickly dries while retaining its shape. Concrete-like mixtures have been used as a building material since roughly 6,500 BC.

What is Gunite Made From?

Concrete is generally made from a combination of cement, sand, and some type of aggregate, such as small pieces of hard material like crushed stone or gravel, all mixed with water. Sometimes, it’s made of lime or silicate powder.

China is the largest producer of cement. Cement is the most widely used manufactured material globally and is second only to water as the most widely used substance worldwide. Gunite for pools has highly compressed strength, which makes it impermeable to water and frost resistance.

History of the Gunite Pool

Concrete pools, which date back to the era of Roman baths, were transformed in the 1940s with the introduction of gunite construction. With newly returning WWII veterans, families sought comfortable places of refuge in their suburban homes. Gunite is a technique that revolutionized pool construction, enabling builders to craft appealing, customized pools with greater ease.

Craftsmen and builders no longer depend on heavy, removable molds or forms to create shaped concrete. The invention of gunite prevents the need for extensive heavy machinery and intensive labor to create casts or templates that shape poured concrete until it sets. Gunite simplifies the creation of unique swimming pools.

Considering a new pool or replastering? Contact Pound Pool Plastering today for a free estimate and get booked in our spring schedule!

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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 email us for a free estimate.

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

Pound Pool Plastering

Colorado’s October Pests: Ants

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Close up image of two ants to represent the common challenges posed by ants in Colorado.

As the autumn leaves begin to paint Colorado’s landscape with hues of gold and red, it’s not just the scenery that changes. October also brings a shift in the world of pests, with ants becoming more prominent visitors in our homes. We explore the common challenges posed by ants in Colorado and offer tips on how to manage them effectively.

Problematic Ants on the Move

Colorado’s cool October weather often sends ants marching into homes in search of warmth and sustenance. Common culprits include pavement ants, carpenter ants, sugar ants, and field ants. These tiny invaders can quickly become a nuisance as they forage for food, particularly sweets and proteins, in your kitchen and pantry. Carpenter ants are in search of moist wood to build their nest site, not eat as some may think. They use their strong jaws to excavate and tunnel through soft wood, leaving dust piles in their track.

Ants are social insects, meaning they work closely together with other ants of their species to live and work. So, when you see one ant, there are always more! Each ant colony consists of three groups: the queen and male breeders, soldiers, and workers. The first group keeps the colony going; the soldiers protect the queen and the nest, and the workers do everything else. Worker ants are responsible for finding food to supply the nest, making them a considerable inconvenience if they invade your residence or workplace. Worker carpenter ants also forage for food and seek suitable places to live, such as damp floor joists or attic trusses.

If left unchecked, the population of an ant colony can rapidly increase in size, making the removal process much more tedious. Although carpenter ant nests tend to have a smaller population than other species, they expand more gradually. However, if left unattended over time, carpenter ants can seriously damage the integrity of your home structure. No matter the type, it’s best to contact a pest control company ASAP when an ant invasion has been spotted.

Naturally Managing Ants

Preventing ants from entering your home in the first place is a proactive approach to pest management. Ensure your home is well-sealed, with no cracks or gaps that could serve as entry points for pests. Keep your kitchen and dining areas clean. Ants are attracted to food residue, so wipe down countertops, sweep floors, and clean up spills promptly. Plant natural barriers such as mint, hot peppers, and sage, or scatter coffee grounds, which repel ants but will nurture your soil. Also, keep your yard well groomed and remove dead wood and debris that can serve as a nesting site for ants and other insects.

  • Tip: Inspect your home’s exterior for potential entry points and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.
  • Tip: Keep food sealed in airtight containers, clean up crumbs promptly, and fix any leaky faucets or pipes to deter ant infestations.
  • Tip: Keep your landscape tidy and plant native vegetation that helps deter pests.
  • Tip: Using equal parts white vinegar and water solution, spray on ant trails and entry points, which may disrupt their scent trails and deter ants from returning.

Professional Ant Control and Extermination

At Front Range Pest, we recognize that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for eradicating ants. To develop the most effective plan, it’s crucial to identify the ant species, pinpoint the nest’s location, and assess the extent of the infestation. Conventional ant bait traps, particularly for restaurants and multi-unit residences, are often ineffective. Dealing with carpenter ants is a complex and time-intensive process, requiring professional pest control assistance. Depending on your specific situation, we offer guidance on non-invasive habitat adjustments, employ perimeter pesticide applications with targeted treatments and ant baits, locate and eliminate the nest, and implement structural enhancements to safeguard your home or business as needed.

Don’t let a small ant problem become a BIG ant problem. Contact Front Range Pest today!

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Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

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

Front Range Pest

Understanding Mortgage Broker Bonds

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Image of a house with percentages next to it to represent the Mortgage Broker industry.

For many aspiring mortgage brokers and seasoned industry professionals alike, the term “Mortgage Broker Bond” can seem like a puzzling requirement on the road to doing business legally. However, understanding what a Mortgage Broker Bond is and its significance is crucial in the world of mortgage lending. In this blog article, we’ll break down the fundamentals of Mortgage Broker Bonds, why they matter, and how they benefit both professionals and consumers.

What is a Mortgage Broker Bond?

A Mortgage Broker Bond, also known as a Mortgage Loan Originator Bond, is a type of surety bond that serves as a protective measure within the mortgage lending industry. It’s a financial guarantee required by regulatory authorities in many states to ensure that mortgage brokers and loan originators conduct their business ethically and in compliance with state and federal laws.

Why Are Mortgage Broker Bonds Required?

Mortgage Broker Bonds are required for several reasons:

Consumer Protection:

These bonds are primarily designed to safeguard consumers from immoral practices. They provide financial protection if a mortgage broker engages in fraudulent activities, misrepresentation, or unethical lending practices.

Legal Compliance:

Regulatory authorities mandate Mortgage Broker Bonds to ensure that professionals in the mortgage industry adhere to state and federal regulations governing mortgage lending. This helps maintain the integrity of the industry and fosters responsible lending.

Ethical Compliance:

Bonds incentivize ethical behavior among mortgage brokers and loan originators. Knowing they are financially liable for misconduct encourages professionals to maintain high ethical standards.

Financial Compensation:

If a consumer or another party suffers financial losses due to the actions of a bonded mortgage broker, they can file a claim against the bond. If the claim is validated, the surety company steps in to provide compensation up to the bond’s coverage limit.

How Mortgage Broker Bonds Work

Understanding how Mortgage Broker Bonds operate is essential:

Three Parties Involved:

A Mortgage Broker Bond is a contractual agreement between three parties:

  1. Principal: The mortgage broker or loan originator who is required to obtain the bond.
  2. Obligee: The regulatory authority or government agency that mandates the bond.
  3. Surety: The surety company that issues the bond and provides the financial guarantee.

Financial Guarantee:

The bond serves as a financial guarantee that the bonded mortgage broker will adhere to all applicable laws and ethical standards in their lending activities.

Consumer Protection:

If a consumer or another party believes a bonded broker’s actions have harmed them, they can file a claim with the surety company. If the claim is valid, the surety company compensates the harmed party up to the bond’s coverage limit.

Compliance and Renewal:

Mortgage Broker Bonds require annual renewal to ensure ongoing compliance with state and federal regulations.

Mortgage Broker Bonds are a vital component of responsible mortgage lending. They protect consumers, promote ethical conduct, and ensure legal compliance within the industry. By understanding the role of Mortgage Broker Bonds, professionals in the mortgage lending field can operate with integrity and confidence, providing a safer and more secure environment for borrowers and lenders alike.

Seeking to obtain a Mortgage Broker Bond, apply here. Construction Bonding Specialists offer a wide range of surety bonds. Contact us today for expert assistance!

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At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a dedicated surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we strive to discover surety solutions for all types of cases, ranging from routine to challenging. Contact us online or call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

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

Construction Bonding Specialists

Preparing for Uncertainty: The Importance of Freeze-Dried Food in Emergency Preparedness

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Image of Readywise Hunting Bucket full of freeze-dried food.

Being prepared is critical in an ever-changing world where natural disasters, power outages, and unforeseen emergencies can disrupt our daily lives. One essential aspect of emergency preparedness that often goes overlooked is food supply. Freeze-dried food can be a game-changer in such situations, providing a reliable and long-lasting source of nutrition when traditional options may not be readily available. This article explores the importance of obtaining and storing freeze-dried food for emergencies.

Shelf Life and Longevity

One of the most persuasive reasons to consider freeze-dried food for emergency preparedness is its remarkable shelf life. Unlike perishable items, freeze-dried food can last for years, even decades, without spoiling. This means you can store it away and forget about it until you truly need it. Whether you’re facing a sudden crisis or planning for long-term survival situations, having food that won’t expire quickly is a game-changer.

Nutritional Value

Freeze-dried food retains its nutritional value extremely well during the preservation process. This means that when you eventually consume it, you get essential nutrients and calories, crucial for maintaining energy and health during emergencies. These foods are often designed to provide a balanced diet, ensuring you have the sustenance you need to stay strong and focused.

Convenience and Portability

Freeze-dried food is incredibly lightweight and compact, making it easy to store and transport. In an emergency, you may need to evacuate or relocate quickly, and having portable, pre-packaged meals can be a lifesaver. Additionally, the minimal weight of freeze-dried food allows you to store larger quantities without taking up excessive space.

Diverse Food Options

Modern freeze-drying technology has advanced significantly, expanding the variety of foods available in this form. You can find freeze-dried fruits, vegetables, meats, and even complete meals. This diversity not only ensures a well-rounded diet but also provides comfort and familiarity in stressful situations.

Minimal Preparation and Waste

Another advantage of freeze-dried food is its simplicity. Most items can be rehydrated with just hot water, requiring minimal preparation and clean-up. This can be crucial when resources and time are limited in an emergency. Additionally, you can prepare only what you need, minimizing waste and ensuring efficient resource management.

Peace of Mind

Finally, having a supply of freeze-dried food in your emergency kit provides peace of mind. Knowing that you have a reliable source of sustenance readily available can reduce anxiety and stress during challenging times. It allows you to focus on other critical aspects of your emergency plan, such as safety and communication.

Where to Buy Freeze-Dried Food?

Freeze-dried food has become more available throughout the US in camping and supplies stores. As a convenience, Wolf Survival Gear offers you the chance to shop online and have your items shipped to your door. View and buy long-term food items made by Readywise, here!

Freeze-dried food is a valuable asset in any emergency preparedness strategy. Its extended shelf life, nutritional value, convenience, diverse options, and minimal preparation make it a wise choice for individuals and families looking to safeguard themselves against unforeseen crises. By incorporating freeze-dried food into your emergency supplies, you can ensure that you and your loved ones are better equipped to face the unexpected with confidence and resilience.

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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/

Wolf Survival Gear

The Role of Commercial Property Appraisals in Lending

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A ‘For Sale’ sign in the window of a store to signify the importance of commercial property appraisals when lending.

When securing financing for a commercial real estate venture, one critical step that often goes under the radar is the property appraisal. Commercial property appraisals play a pivotal role in the lending process, influencing loan amounts and interest rates. In this article, we’ll explore how property appraisals work in commercial lending and why they are so crucial.

Understanding Property Appraisals

Commercial property appraisals are thorough assessments of a property’s value conducted by certified appraisers. These professionals take into account various factors, including the property’s location, size, condition, and comparable sales in the area. The goal is to determine an accurate and objective estimate of the property’s current market value.

Importance in Determining Loan Amounts

One of the primary roles of a property appraisal in commercial lending is to establish the collateral’s value. Lenders use this value to determine how much they are willing to lend. The loan-to-value ratio (LTV) is an essential metric derived from the appraisal. Generally, lenders will offer a loan amount based on a certain percentage of the appraised value, typically ranging from 65% to 80%. A higher appraisal value can lead to a larger loan amount, giving borrowers more financial leverage.

Impact on Interest Rates

Property appraisals also influence interest rates. Lenders often provide more favorable terms, including lower interest rates, for loans with lower LTV ratios. If the appraisal value is high and the LTV ratio is low, it signals to the lender that the loan is less risky, resulting in more competitive interest rates for the borrower.

Mitigating Risk

Property appraisals serve as a risk mitigation tool for lenders. Lenders can make informed lending decisions by having a professional assessment of the property’s value. They are more likely to avoid overextending credit, which could lead to defaults in the future. This risk mitigation benefits both lenders and borrowers by ensuring that loans are made based on realistic property valuations.

Negotiation and Due Diligence

Property appraisals also provide a basis for negotiation between borrowers and lenders. If the appraisal comes in lower than expected, borrowers may use this as a starting point for discussions with the lender. They can work to adjust the loan terms or seek additional collateral to meet their financing needs.

In the world of commercial lending, property appraisals are not just paperwork; they are a crucial component of the process. They objectively assess a property’s value, which in turn influences loan amounts and interest rates. By understanding the significance of property appraisals and ensuring they are conducted accurately, borrowers and lenders can make informed decisions that promote the success of their commercial real estate ventures.

Are you considering purchasing property? Consult with the local experts at EB Mortgage for new home purchasing, refinancing, DSCR loans, and commercial lending. 

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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/

EB Mortgage

New Home with an Old Pool?

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Or perhaps the same home, but you haven’t used the pool in quite some time for whatever reason. Starring at your inground swimming pool that’s in disrepair all season is no fun. Luckily, now is a good time to start researching and making plans for that old pool by either bringing it up to code, replacing it, or removing it.

We discuss these three options for your inground pool: renovate, renew, or remove.

First, determine what condition your pool is in.

The initial state of your inherited pool greatly influences your renovation choices. If your pool is mainly unkept but functional, a deep cleaning might suffice. Check the pool’s surface, pump, filter, and surrounding areas. If they’re in good shape, simple maintenance like pressure washing and pool shock might restore it. However, it’s best to consult with a professional for tasks like acid washing a concrete pool’s interior.

What if the pool works, but the parts don’t?

Pool equipment, like pumps and filters, can deteriorate, especially when exposed to water and freezing temperatures. If not winterized correctly by previous owners, the machinery might be damaged, including pipes and fittings. Be prepared; major equipment can be costly. If the damage is extensive, consider whether renovation or a complete replacement is more feasible. In such cases, contact a trusted pool maintenance company for help determining what is best for you.

When the pool’s plumbing thrives, but the surfaces dive?

Regardless of maintenance, gunite/concrete pools require resurfacing every 10 to 15 years, costing upwards of $10,000 based on size and intricacy. Improperly cared-for concrete pools might need earlier resurfacing. Vinyl liners have a lifespan of 5 to 10 years, and replacements by professionals typically start at $4,000. DIY replacements are risky and not advised. While fiberglass pools don’t usually need resurfacing, restoring a neglected finish can be expensive, with costs for smaller pools often exceeding $10,000.

Should I renovate or replace my pool?

Some old pools may be beyond effective restoration, especially if neglected for a long time. If faced with an irreparable pool, homeowners must fill it or replace it. For those uninterested in a pool, the decision is straightforward. But for others desiring a backyard oasis, replacement might be the wiser choice if the current pool doesn’t align with their preferences in terms of size, shape, depth, or features.

To decide between renovating or replacing your old pool, consider the following:

  1. Will the renovated pool meet your requirements?
  2. Is renovating more cost-effective than replacing it?
  3. How crucial is having the “ideal pool” to your vision of homeownership?

Many homeowners with old pools find that regardless of potential renovation savings, they’re not fond of the pool’s design or features. Whether it’s an outdated look or unappealing shape for today’s standards, if you feel this way, it might be time to consider a new pool project.

How much does replacing a pool cost?

Replacing an old pool is akin to installing a new one in terms of cost. Though both involve excavation, renovating a neglected pool can sometimes be pricier than a fresh installation. Since we solely work with gunite pools, we expand a bit on the various factors that affect cost: 

  1. Size and Depth: Larger and deeper pools will naturally cost more to replace.
  2. Location: Labor and material costs vary by region. Access to the backyard can also impact costs. If it’s hard for machinery to access the site, expenses can go up.
  3. Features: Adding features like waterfalls, spa additions, or tanning ledges will increase the price.
  4. Finish: Higher-end finishes, such as pebble or quartz, will cost more than standard plaster.
  5. Demolition of the Old Pool: Before a new pool can be installed, the old one must be demolished and the debris removed. This can be a significant cost.
  6. Additional Costs: This might include reconfiguring plumbing and electrical systems, landscaping, decking, fencing, and more.

If you’ve got an old pool in your backyard, and you’re not sure what your best course of action might be, please reach out to a local pool pro, like Pound Pool Plastering Inc. There are simply too many factors in play for us to recommend one method over another without seeing your pool in person. For extensive pool-building and plastering experience, contact us 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 email us for a free estimate.

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

Pound Pool Plastering

Bathroom Remodeling: 10 Steps to a Fresh Start for Your Intimate Space

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

An image of a remodeled bathroom.

Bathrooms are more than just functional spaces; they’re personal sanctuaries where we begin and end our days. An outdated or cramped bathroom can impact your daily routine, while a well-designed one can boost your home’s value and improve your well-being. Here’s what to consider if you’re thinking about a bathroom remodeling project.

1. Set Clear Objectives:

Before diving into design choices, establish your primary goals. Do you need more space? Are you aiming for a luxurious spa feel, or just updating outdated fixtures? Prioritizing your needs will guide your budget and design choices.

2. Budget Wisely:

Bathroom remodels can range from modest updates to luxury overhauls. Determine your budget early on, accounting for labor, materials, unforeseen challenges, and a contingency fund of around 10%.

3. Space Planning:

Consider the layout of your current bathroom. Reconfiguring the plumbing might be expensive, so unless it’s necessary, try to retain the existing layout. If you’re expanding the space, think about storage, traffic flow, and functionality.

4. Material Choices:

High-quality materials can be durable and add aesthetic appeal. Consider moisture-resistant materials, tiles that prevent slips, and fixtures that are both stylish and functional.

5. Eco-friendly Upgrades:

Green fixtures like low-flow toilets and water-saving showers can reduce your utility bills while being environmentally responsible. Additionally, LED lights can enhance ambiance while conserving energy.

6. Lighting and Ventilation:

Proper lighting can transform the space, providing both functions for tasks like shaving or makeup, and ambiance for relaxation. Ventilation is crucial for preventing mold and ensuring good air quality.

7. Professional or DIY?:

While DIY projects can be rewarding and cost-effective, bathrooms can present challenges that are best handled by professionals, from plumbing to electrical work.

8. Trends vs. Timelessness:

While following current design trends is tempting, it’s essential to balance this with timelessness, ensuring your remodel stands the test of time.

9. Storage Solutions:

With toiletries, towels, and other essentials, bathrooms require efficient storage. Think about built-in cabinets, floating vanities, and organizers.

10. Final Touches:

Once the major work is complete, it’s all about the details. Add personal touches with artwork, plants, or decorative bath accessories to make the space uniquely yours.

A bathroom remodel is an investment in your home and your daily life. By planning carefully and making informed decisions, you can transform this essential space into a rejuvenating haven. Whether you’re doing a full renovation or a minor update, the right choices can breathe new life into your bathroom.

With over 30 years’ experience in the field, contact the bathroom design and renovation experts who care about your home just as much as you!

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JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

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

Jason Foldenauer Construction

Whole House Water Filtration Systems vs. Reverse Osmosis Systems

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Are you wondering what the differences are between a whole house water filter system and a reverse osmosis system? They both have their own unique features and benefits. Keep reading our blog to learn more about these two popular filtration systems.   

Understanding Whole House Water Filter Systems

A whole house water filter system is positioned where your main water line enters your home. It’s a collective set of filters within a single unit, filtering both hot and cold water.

Pros:

  • Filters all the water in your home
  • Enhances quality of water for drinking, showering, etc.
  • Systems vary for specific needs (i.e., city or well water)
  • Comprehensive filtration

Cons:

  • Installation can be challenging; often requires a plumber
  • Permanent setup, not ideal for rental properties
  • Reliable systems start around $1,000.

Understanding Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse osmosis systems are also a collective set of filters within a single unit, but they utilize a specialized, semi-permeable membrane with fine pores to filter out contaminants. While they can be placed at various points of use, they’re often installed under kitchen sinks due to water waste concerns.

Pros:

  • Provides exceptional filtration, removing nearly all contaminants
  • Versatile placements: under-sink, countertop, or whole home
  • Generally straightforward installation

Cons:

  • Strips water of beneficial minerals
  • May result in flat-tasting water
  • Uses excess water

What’s the Main Difference Between a Whole House System and a Reverse Osmosis System?

The primary distinction between whole-house systems and reverse osmosis systems lies in their filtration process. While entire house systems utilize a sequence of filter cartridges to capture contaminants, reverse osmosis systems incorporate an extra filtration layer—a semi-permeable membrane—that removes almost all dissolved solids, including minerals and metals, from the water.

Which is better for your home or office? It just depends on what you’re looking for!

Some Other Things to Consider Regarding Water Filtration:

  • Cost: Whole house water filtration systems range from $500 to $2,000+, with prices influenced by brand, quality, and performance specialization. With their advanced designs, air injection systems typically cost more than cartridge systems. Meanwhile, under-sink reverse osmosis systems are priced between $150 and $1,000, determined by design and performance.
  • Design: Whole house systems’ designs differ. City water systems often combine carbon media with others like ion exchange, KDF, and activated alumina. They come as tank-based or cartridge-based, with most having a sediment pre-filter. In contrast, reverse osmosis systems use a multi-stage approach, including sediment, carbon, polishing filters, and a semi-permeable membrane. Traditional RO systems store water in tanks, while contemporary models are tankless.
  • Installation Location: Whole house water filtration systems treat all water entering your home, installed near the water’s entry point. On the other hand, reverse osmosis systems can filter the entire home’s supply or just specific areas like the kitchen sink.
  • Contaminant Removal: Whole house systems target common drinking water contaminants like chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals, VOCs, nitrate, arsenic, fluoride, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. However, their efficacy varies, and some might address even more contaminants. In contrast, reverse osmosis systems offer bottled-quality water, removing said contaminants plus bacteria, minerals, salts, cysts, and certain viruses.
  • Efficiency: Whole house systems are generally efficient. Most don’t rely on electricity or waste water, making them cost-effective and straightforward. However, some, like air injection systems, do waste water during backwashing. While reverse osmosis (RO) systems are improving in efficiency, they inherently waste water by flushing contaminants. Some modern RO systems offer a 1:1 water waste to pure water ratio, but traditional ones can waste up to 4 gallons for every gallon purified.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Whole house systems for city water typically need annual maintenance, with filters changed every 12 months, though some may require more frequent changes. Systems using pre-loaded media tanks need maintenance every 5-10 years. In contrast, RO systems demand more upkeep. They usually have three filters needing replacement every 6-12 months and a semi-permeable membrane with a two-year lifespan.

Need help deciding which water filtration system is best for your household? Contact a water specialist expert at Reynolds Water Conditioning today for assistance!  

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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/

Reynolds Water

Experts and Patients Advocate for Greater Glaucoma Awareness and Testing: The Silent Thief of Sight

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The story of 43-year-old Shannon Davis underscores the urgency of regular eye check-ups. Glaucoma is responsible for irreversible vision loss by damaging the optic nerve, and it’s the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Davis, diagnosed with advanced glaucoma, experienced significant vision loss, rendering him legally blind, and he could not work or drive. After various treatments and surgeries, Davis’s glaucoma has stabilized over the past two years.Ophthalmologist Dr. Noor Ali from Canberra, Australia, who oversees Davis’s care, highlights that glaucoma often goes unnoticed until substantial vision loss occurs. Thus, emphasizing the crucial need for early detection screening.What Causes Glaucoma?“No symptoms, no headaches, nothing that was obvious,” says Davis in disbelief that this happened to him. In its early stages, glaucoma has no symptoms, hence the term ‘silent thief.’ Regular glaucoma screenings are your best defense, especially if you face certain risk factors such as:·         Being extremely near-sighted·         Genetic history of glaucoma·         Adults over 40 years of age·         Black Americans over 35·         Underlying disease (such as diabetes)·         Obesity·         Poor overall health (inactive, deficient nutritional diet, etc.)What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?Every person is different, and glaucoma may show a few warning signs. However, generally when symptoms do appear, the condition is usually advanced. Typical symptoms include:·         Pain in/behind one or both eyes·         Chronic headaches·         Progressive loss of peripheral vision·         Increased need for brighter lighting for everyday tasks·         Foggy or blurry visionWhat Are My Options if I Have Glaucoma?Allowing glaucoma to progress without proper treatment will result in vision loss or blindness. In some cases, eye drops or other medications may suffice. For advanced instances, glaucoma surgery is recommended. There are many different types of glaucoma surgery. Your ophthalmologist will explain the differences between each, and together, you can determine which procedure is best for your situation.What Does Glaucoma Surgery Entail? Glaucoma surgery aims to lower the eye’s intraocular pressure (IOP), the primary modifiable risk factor, to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. By reducing the IOP, the surgery helps halt ongoing damage to the optic nerve, thus preserving vision. At Zen Eye Institute, our ophthalmologist, Dr. Charles Zenzen, conducts glaucoma surgery on an outpatient basis, eliminating the need for a hospital stay. This surgery may also be combined with cataract surgery. For more information, please contact our office. __________ Zen Eye Institute, formally Rohr Eye & Laser Center, has served the greater Grand Blanc area for over twenty years. Now operating under Dr. Charles Zenzen, we offer comprehensive medical and surgical eye care treating various conditions and diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, dry eyes, and more. For exceptional eye care at our state-of-the-art practice, call (810) 579-0202 to make an appointment today! Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com

Rohr Eye & Laser Center

MIT and Dana-Farber’s Breakthrough in Identifying Cancer Origins

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In certain cancer cases, pinpointing the exact origin of the cancer is challenging, which complicates treatment decisions. Specific cancer treatments are tailored to different cancer types, and not knowing where the cancer originated from hinders treatment options.

Fortunately, a collaboration between researchers at MIT and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has unveiled a machine-learning model, named OncoNPC, that can predict a tumor’s origin by analyzing the genetic sequence of about 400 genes.

Upon testing, the model showcased an impressive ability to correctly identify the origins of tumors 80% of the time. For tumors where predictions were made with high confidence, the accuracy surged to about 95%. This is monumental for cases classified as cancers of unknown primary (CUP), representing 3 to 5 percent of all cancer patients.

Utilizing the OncoNPC model on about 900 CUP tumors revealed that it could make high-confidence predictions for 40% of them. Further validating the model’s precision, the predicted cancer types corresponded with patients’ survival times, aligning with known prognoses for those cancer types.

Additionally, the model’s implementation could have reshaped treatment decisions for patients. A subset of CUP patients who received treatment congruent with the model’s predictions had more favorable outcomes compared to those who received mismatched treatments.

The researchers emphasized that a significant portion of patients could benefit from existing precision treatments if the cancer’s origin was identified through their model.

The team, funded by multiple institutions, including the National Institutes of Health, is optimistic about enhancing the model’s capabilities. Incorporating other data types like radiology and pathology images aims to equip the model to offer comprehensive insights, potentially guiding optimal treatment options.

To view the original source, visit: MIT News  

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