Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

Out West Awning Co. has been a staple of the Pikes Peak Region since 1903. The company provides commercial and residential awning services to clients throughout El Paso, Teller and Pueblo counties. More than 100 years ago the company was both an awning and outfitting company, gearing up hunters, hikers, homeowners and business-owners with everything they need from backpacks to tents to patio awnings to entrance canopies. Today, the locally-owned and operated business keeps up on all of the cutting-edge products and technologies in the awning industry, and is a Charter member of the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association.

We are excited that after more than a century business continues to boom at Out West Awning, and as we expand we see a prime opportunity to partner up with deck, pergola, siding and other talented installation crews in order to offer a more complete set of services to our commercial and residential clients, says Richard Forward, President of Out West Awning Co. An awning is a great way to wrap up a new construction or home improvement project and itll help our partnering companies margins overall. Not only would the partnership be mutually beneficial for the contractors, it would streamline the process for clients instead of them having to call a different installer for each and every project. The company already works with several general contractors in the region, who recognize the superior quality of Out West Awning Co.s product.

We stay ahead of the curve and consistently keep track of trends and manufacturing techniques, says Forward. Many do not look into the marketplace deep enough to understand what makes an excellent awning versus an okay one versus a weak one. Good, better and best applies to every industry and ours isnt an exception. Forward is very particular about how he builds his awnings, and has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars on top-notch equipment and inventory, which can be viewed at his showroom at 1865 N. Academy Blvd.

The company is seeking to establish partnerships with skilled commercial and residential installers to extend a range of services to its valued customers, including engineered shade sail structures, maintenance-free aluminum walkway covers and more for businesses. On the residential end, home improvement projects include retractable awnings, stationary patio awnings, window awnings as well as solar management.

Teaming up with Out West Awning Co. provides contractors with an edge in the booming Colorado Springs economy. From the graphic design to material quality, the company is at the top of its game. The seams of the awnings are welded minimizing sewn seams, which affords greater life out of the product. In addition, the materials offered are water repellant and time tested in our particular climate. They offer a full spectrum of materials and processes to accommodate your graphics needs for your business identification.

Out West Awning is also thrilled to announce that theyare designing their own line of retractable screens, which the company will have sole possession of. The screens will be available in more than 140 colors; and Forward plans to have them available by late April. Its an exciting time to become a part of and grow with Out West Awning Co., whether as a client or business partner. You have to move quickly in this business, and offering our quality product as an option of something to install is highly appealing, says Forward.

To learn more about how you can get involved, contact Richard Forward at 719-570-9778.

Out West Awning Co., 1865 N. Academy Blvd. OutWestAwning.com.

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Out West Awnings Co. is expanding, inviting construction partnerships - Colorado Springs Gazette

The developers of The Landings apartment complex on Monday night got the rezoning they needed to add 120 apartments to the complex.

But it did not come easily or cheaply.

Council members divided 3-3 on whether to allow the development on the southeast corner of the intersection of 36th Street and Cornhusker Road to expand.

Mayor Rita Sanders broke the tie in favor of the developers, siding with councilmen John Hansen, Paul Cook and Don Preister.

The three council members who voted against the construction project all said the intersection was too heavily traveled and too important to Bellevue to be handed over to residential development.

They favored waiting until commercial or retail developers showed an interest.

Those council members were Pat Shannon, Thomas Burns and Jim Moudry.

The developers NS Landings 2, LLC did not get all they wanted, however.

They had asked for a waiver of a city requirement they install a sidewalk along the edge of the development, from 36th Street east along the south side of Cornhusker Road to Linden Plaza.

But council members voted 6-0 to deny the waiver, thus requiring that the sidewalk be installed.

The developers had protested that the sidewalk would be a sidewalk to nowhere, since it would stand alone without connecting to an existing sidewalk either to the east or the west.

But council members sided with Bellevue resident Dwight Beaton, who spoke at the public hearing in favor of requiring the sidewalk.

Sidewalks would always be sidewalks to nowhere if none are ever installed, he said. But a consistent program of sidewalk installation would soon have sidewalks connecting to other sidewalks, he said.

The vote was a defeat for the Greater Bellevue Area Chamber of Commerce, which spoke in favor of reserving the corner for commercial development.

Rusty Hike, chairman of the chamber board of directors, said busy intersections are rarely good locations for residential developments and would be better used for commercial and retail development which would generate both property and sales taxes for the city.

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Mayor breaks tie, OKs new apartments - Omaha World-Herald

SCIO The Linn County Road Department will oversee restoration of the Gilkey Covered Bridge this summer, according to County Engineer Chuck Knoll.

This will be the fourth covered bridge restoration project Linn County has completed in the last five years, he said. We plan to advertise this project for bid in the next few weeks.

Renovation is expected to run from June to late October, and the estimated cost is $1- to $1.5-million, to be funded through the Oregon Department of Transporations local bridge program. (The Shimanek Covered Bridge is in line for restoration in 2019.)

According to Knoll, the Gilkey carries Goar Road over Thomas Creek and is located in an area of the county known as Gilkey station, established in 1880. Knoll said the area was a center for shipment of farm products.

The bridge was built based on an Oregon State Highway Commission design, although there's some confusion about what year it was actually constructed. A plaque on the structure indicates 1939, but Knoll said a 1936 Albany Democrat-Herald article noted it was constructed that year.

Linn County has about 320 bridges that we inspect and maintain," he said. "Through the years since 1936 I have a hunch that the Linn County Engineer before me and the Roadmaster before Darrin Lane had a lot of work to do and did not have time to correct any published sources that got the date wrong or right. We might consider placing a new sign on the covered bridge that indicates the bridge was constructed in 1936 as part of this project.

However, he added, a sign with an incorrect date of 1939 might, to some, have a little historical significance.

Kevin Groom, who designed the renovation project, said the open trussed style allowed more light and visibility while reducing wind resistance on the house.

The partially exposed trusses also dry out faster than enclosed designs, Knoll said.

The bridge uses 120-foot Howe trusses on each side of the roadway. In 1995, the county replaced decaying bottom timber chord sections on both trusses. Repairs three years later included replacing more decaying chord members, as well as steel hanger rods, bearing plates, floor beams and cross-bracing; a new deck installation; chemical fumigation of trusses; and paint.

A 2008 truck accident forced further repairs: replacing a damaged upper cross brace and damaged timber diagonals; and repairing damaged steel hanger rods, siding and broken roof collar ties.

Groom noted the renovation project is designed to bring the structural capacity of the bridge up to 40 tons, which will support the crossing of trucks. Its current capacity is six tons.

The project will include installing new pressure-treated timber bottom truss chords; making epoxy repairs to damaged existing top timber chords; adding steel side plates on existing top timber chords to increase strength; installing a new timber roof truss, structural members and cedar shingle roofing; installing a new timber deck and historic timber guard rail; new timber siding; new paint; and new bridge approach spans.

In addition to the extensive work on the main span, the project will also replace all of the existing timber and concrete substructure with new reinforced concrete and steel piling abutments and piers, Groom said in a report about the bridge status. This will address constant maintenance issues associated with decaying timber and scour damage from Thompson Creek that have occurred in the past during large storms.

Knoll said the Linn County Road Department is fortunate to have Groom on staff.

Kevin has many years experience in the structural design of timber covered bridges, Knoll said. Kevin provided the design for the restoration of the bridge, with support from Andrew Potts, Daineal Malone and myself, as well as input from our bridge maintenance crew.

Knoll said projects of this magnitude work best if tackled as a team effort.

Its best to get input from everyone who has a working knowledge of a covered bridge, Knoll said.

Linn County Road Department is responsible for the maintenance of six covered bridges in addition to Gilkey: the Hannah, Larwood, Short, Shimanek and Hoffman covered bridges. Hannah, Larwood, Short and Hoffman have been restored over the past five years with engineering design, contract administration and construction inspection completed by the Linn County Engineering staff.

Contact Linn County reporter Alex Paul at 541-812-6114.

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Gilkey Covered Bridge to get overhaul this summer - Albany Democrat Herald

BMC STOCK HOLDINGS, INC. (NASDAQ:BMCH) Files An 8-K Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of ... Market Exclusive ... product specification, installation, and installation management services. It offers a range of products sourced through a network of suppliers. It also offers various products, including hardware, wood boards, gypsum, insulation, roofing, siding ... and more »

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BMC STOCK HOLDINGS, INC. (NASDAQ:BMCH) Files An 8-K Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of ... - Market Exclusive

Your group has been tremendously helpful to us in shortening the learning curve as we moved from being an asphalt shingle company to one that installs beautiful metal roofing. Jeff Moeslein President, Legacy Remodeling, Inc.

Flint, Michigan (PRWEB) March 16, 2017

American Metal Roofs (AMR) is excited to announce the launch of a new industry website. MetalRoofingConsultants.com was created to showcase the training and consultation services that AMR provides to contractors and manufacturers in the metal roofing industry.

Metal Roofing Consultants (MRC) has been growing over the years as a result of providing clients with a proven methodology for increasing business through lead generation, appointment setting, in home sales presentations, and the recruitment and training of top level installation crews.

The systems created by MRC gives new dealers the tools and confidence they need to achieve success in the metal roofing industry. The new website outlines the courses available to contractors and manufacturers, designed to teach all facets of the metal roofing business. The training that MRC provides has been proven to increase profitability for its clients.

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Your group has been tremendously helpful to us in shortening the learning curve as we moved from being an asphalt shingle company to one that installs beautiful metal roofing.

Jeff Moeslein President, Legacy Remodeling, Inc.

The website also provides bios for the instructors, who are all top level executives and managers at AMR.

http://www.metalroofingconsultants.com/instructors/

About American Metal Roofs: American Metal Roofs provides residential and commercial metal roofing products and services for the Michigan Lower Peninsula. American Metal Roofs specializes in installing metal roofing from the leading manufacturers of permanent metal roofing. http://www.americanmetalroofs.com

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American Metal Roofs Launches New Website to Offer Expert Training and Consulting in Running a Metal Roofing ... - PR Web (press release)

A developer has sought to turn this property along Lorraine Avenue, seen Nov. 28, 2016, into retail and office space.(Photo: Mollie Shauger/NorthJersey.com)

A group of residents near Lorraine Avenue finally obtainedthe outcome they had been seeking for months, when the Montclair Planning Board on Monday, March 13, voted5-4against a proposal to turn the former Warner Communications Building into retail and office space.

DeveloperMichael Pavelhas been seeking approval for a mixed-use development at 237-249 Lorraine Ave., near the Upper Montclair Train Stationand Valley Road businesses of Kings supermarketand Williams-Sonoma.

Within the past year, there have been several hearings before the Planning Board and Historic Preservation Commission. The board had earlier approved a plan for a two-floor building consisting of 4,925 square feet of retail space on the first floor and 5,300 square feet of medical office or general office space on the second floor, along with 60 parking spaces.

The developer then amended the plans, increasing the second-floor office space by 3,671 square feet, ora 36 percent increase in building area. The second floor would contain general office suites.

Developer seeks more office space on Montclair's Lorraine Avenue

Montclair board to hear revised plans for Lorraine Avenue

One small development on Lorraine Avenue in Montclair, one giant leap for residents

Several residents who live near the property, mostly along Braemore Road, have voiced their objections to the amended plans, particularly its size and perceived disparity with the surrounding historic district. Theyve also cited safety and traffic concerns.

The municipalHistoric Preservation Commission had labeled the proposed addition to the building as too intrusive in size and scale in the Upper Montclair Historic Business District. The commission also believed the proposed project does not meet the criteria under the HPCs Historic Design Guidelines, particularly in regards to rear additions, as one was proposed with the new building.

On Monday night in the Municipal Building, during the third hearing on the new plans, planning consultant Peter Steck testified and affirmed there was no new variance required. Steck was also asked to weigh in on something that had come up at the last hearing on the application, when it was thought a design waiver might be needed for the project. Board member Martin Schwartz had argued at that hearing that the waiver is required because the application doesnt meet certain municipal design standards.

In my opinion, there is no waiver needed, Steck told the Planning Board.

Steck debated with board members overhow to interpret whether the design standards in play should take into account the historic district as a whole or just buildings in the immediate vicinity of the project. Steck argued for the the latter.

The rug was pulled out from under our feet, and now this structure is going to set a dangerous precedent.

Applicant attorney Neal Zimmerman had previously argued that the applicant complies with the zoning ordinance, and the design guidelines should not supersede that fact. Zimmermanreiterated that belief following the boards decision.

The board cant just say we dont like a project. They have to base a denial in the municipal ordinances, he told The Montclair Times. We dont see a basis in the municipal ordinance for the denial.

Some board members, along with members of the public, have argued that the proposed building is not compatible with the surrounding historic district.

Braemore Road resident Jennifer Haughton on Monday night asked how an office building like the ones on Route 46 will blend with the neighborhood and historic district.

John Padovanoof Braemore Roadwas concerned the project could set a bad precedent.

What would stop the next developer from putting a similar type of building in this neighborhood, and its charm would be eroded even more? asked Padovano.

He noted how the developer and community had previously agreed on a smaller building, one that would fit within the neighborhood, and then it was changed.

The rug was pulled out from under our feet, and now this structure is going to set a dangerous precedent, Padovanosaid.

Braemore Road resident Rob Macfarlane, along with another neighbor, voiced safety concerns with the proposal. Does it make sense to keep adding density to the whole area, and potentially casualties? asked Braemore Road resident Patricia Abad, who feared an increase in traffic accidents.

Resident Yahui Olenik addresses the planning board and consultant Peter Steck, left, during Monday night's planning board meeting.(Photo: Mollie Shauger/NorthJersey.com)

Planning Board Vice Chair Jason DeSalvo pointed out how the previous plans had been praised by the board and neighbors, claiming that theapplicanttried to slide one in with an amended plan.

DeSalvo also believed thecase may have to end up being litigated to determine the HPCs power in similar applications.

We live in a beautiful town thats not meant to look like Route 46, he said.

DeSalvo, along with Schwartz and board members Robin Schlager, Carole Willis and Stephen Rooney, voted against the project.

Board members Anthony Ianuale, Carmel Loughman, Keith Brodock, and board Chair John Wynn supported the application.

Schlager agreed with Padovanos comment about the rug being pulled out from under residents.

These are peoples backyards, not just a commercial use, she said.

Wynn said he wasnt a fan of the buildings design or bulk, but he couldnt ignore Zimmermans legal arguments.

I think the best we can do on this application is to make sure weve got the best-looking building there we can get, and we have the buildings [aesthetic] impact mitigated as much as possible, Wynn said.

He reluctantly motioned to approve the application, saying its what were compelled to do.

Ianuale noted that office space is needed in the town.

Its an existing building thats failing, and I think the applicant is making an attempt to revitalize it, so I think its favorable. In my opinion, it complies in all respects with zoning, he said.

After the board was polled for votes, and it was realized the application wouldn't pass, residents in the audience clapped and cheered, with many thanking the board. The board also thanked the residents for showing up to hearings so often.

Zimmerman said Wednesday no decision had been made on the how the developer would proceed, and whetherhe would appeal the decision.

The Planning Board on Monday alsoapproved an application from Luther Flurry and Jarmila Packardfor a two-lot subdivision at 14-16 Madison Ave.A previous application involved demolishing the former Clover Rest Nursing Homeand subdividingthe property into three lots. The new application retains the former nursing home, which would be renovated, as well as anothersingle-family home in the rear of the property.

Email: gray@northjersey.com

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Montclair Planning Board votes down Lorraine Ave. proposal - NorthJersey.com

President Donald J. Trump today announced his intent to nominate key additions to his Administration.

James Donovan of Virginia will serve as Deputy Secretary of the Treasury. Mr. Donovan is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Virginia School of Law and a Managing Director at Goldman Sachs. He earned a BS in chemical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a master's degree in management from the MIT Sloan School of Management, and his JD from Harvard Law School. His career at Goldman Sachs has included work on corporate strategy for the firm, investment banking, and investment management. For the past eight years, Mr. Donovan has also taught classes on corporate strategy and team management to law and business students at UVA. Mr. Donovan has long been involved in efforts supporting medical research and cancer treatment and prevention, serving on the Board of Directors of the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health and the Board of Trustees of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

J. Christopher Giancarlo of New Jersey will serve as Chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Mr. Giancarlo was confirmed to be a Commissioner at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission by unanimous consent of the Senate on June 3, 2014. He was designated as Acting Chairman of the Commission on January 20, 2017. Before entering public service, Mr. Giancarlo served as the Executive Vice President of GFI Group Inc., a financial services firm. Prior to joining GFI, he was Executive Vice President and U.S. Legal Counsel of Fenics Software and was a corporate partner in the New York law firm of Brown Raysman Millstein Felder & Steiner. He attended Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, New York where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa with Government Department Honors. Mr. Giancarlo received his law degree from the Vanderbilt University School of Law where he was an associate research editor at the Vanderbilt Journal of Transnational Law and President of the Law Schools International Law Society.

Eric D. Hargan of Illinois will serve as Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services. Mr. Hargan is a shareholder of Greenberg Traurig, LLP in its Health & FDA Business practice, based in Chicago. He earned a BAcum laudein philosophy from Harvard University, and a JD from Columbia University Law School. Mr. Hargan previously served the Department from 2003-2007 as Deputy General Counsel, as Principal Associate Deputy Secretary and as Acting Deputy Secretary. In 2014-2015, he served as Co-Chair and Convener of the Healthcare and Human Services Transition Committee for Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2016-2017, he served on President Trumps transition team for HHS. He is a previous recipient of the HHS Secretarys Award for Distinguished Service. He and his wife currently reside in theChicago suburbswith their two sons.

Adam Lerrick of Wyoming will serve as Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury for International Finance and upon confirmation will be designated as an Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for International Finance. Mr. Lerrick is a Visiting Scholar at the American Enterprise Institute. From 2001 to 2010, he was the Friends of Allan H. Meltzer Professor of Economics at Carnegie Mellon University. From 2001 to 2007, Mr. Lerrick served as Advisor on International Economic Policy to the Joint Economic Committee of Congress. He was also an Advisor on International Economic Policy to the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives. He was awarded a PhD and Institute Scholar, in Economics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. A Phi Betta Kappa, he graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University in Economics.

Andrew K.Drew Maloney of Virginia will serve as Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury for Legislative Affairs and upon confirmation will be designated as an Assistant Secretary of the Treasury Legislative Affairs. Mr. Maloney is a recognized government affairs expert with over 25 year of experience. Prior to his nomination, he was Vice President of Global Government and External Affairs for the Hess Corporation.Mr. Maloney also served as CEO of Ogilvy Government Relations, a prominent bipartisan government affairs firm. In addition to his professional experience, Mr. Maloney has served as a senior advisor to several presidential campaigns and counseled on presidential legislative transition efforts. He also held senior positions in the U.S. House of Representatives, including working for members of the House Leadership. Maloney originally from Rockingham County, Virginia earned his BA from Randolph-Macon College where he is a member of the Board of Trustees, and his JD from Catholic Universitys Columbus School of Law.

David Malpass of New York will serve as Under Secretary of the Treasury for International Affairs. Mr. Malpass returns to the Treasury after an extensive career in government and international finance. He served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Developing Nations in the Reagan Administration and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State in the George H. W. Bush Administration. Mr. Malpass was also a Senior Tax Analyst on the Senate Budget Committee during the preparations for the 1986 Tax Act and Republican Staff Director of Congresss Joint Economic Committee. He was founder of Encima Global, an economic research firm. Mr. Malpass served as Senior Economic Advisor for President Trumps campaign. He has appeared in the media as a commentator and columnist on issues focusing on growth policies, the Federal Reserve, tax reform, and international monetary policy. Mr.Malpass holds a BA from Colorado College and an MBA from University of Denver.

Sigal Mandelker of New York will serve as Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. Ms. Mandelker is currently a partner at Proskauer Rose LLP. She previously served in senior law enforcement and national security positions at the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. As Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice, Sigal oversaw four major sections and a number of significant cross-border prosecutions. Prior to that position, she served as Counselor to the Secretary of Homeland Security. She also previously worked on counterterrorism and national security issues as Counsel to the Deputy Attorney General. Sigal was also an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York.Sigal served as a law clerk to the Honorable Clarence Thomas, U.S. Supreme Court, and to the Honorable Edith H. Jones, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Sigal received her JD from the University of Pennsylvania Law School and her BA from the University of Michigan.

Brent James McIntosh of Michigan will serve as General Counsel for the Department of the Treasury. Mr. McIntosh is a partner in the law firm of Sullivan & Cromwell. He was born and raised in Michigan, and he earned degrees from the University of Michigan and Yale Law School. After law school, he was a law clerk to Judge Dennis Jacobs of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and to Judge Laurence H. Silberman of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. From 2004 until 2006, he served in the Office of Legal Policy at the U.S. Department of Justice, including as a Deputy Assistant Attorney General. He served in the White House from 2006 until 2009, first as Associate Counsel to the President and then as Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy Staff Secretary.

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President Donald J. Trump Announces Intent to Nominate Key Administration Posts - Whitehouse.gov (press release)

By Randy Brown

For hotels and motels located near noisy streets, highways, train tracks, airports or urban city walks, keeping external noise from penetrating into what should be the quiet, peaceful sanctuary of the guest room might seem an impossible task.

With the cacophony of loud sirens, traffic, construction, garbage and delivery trucks, aircraft, and nearby nightlife, guests are often inundated with unwanted noise until the early morning hours. Even a raucous swimming pool or other common area open late for guests can be a source of aggravation.

Such noise can make it difficult for guests to sleep soundly, if at all, during the night or for needed daytime naps. For those conducting business in their hotel room or simply relaxing, excessive noise can lead to frustration and frayed nerves.

The fallout is undeniable. Unhappy guests include frequent requests to change rooms, customers that vow never to return, customers demanding a refund, or negative online social reviews. The negative impact to a hotels bottom line can be significant and result in lower bookings and a substantial decrease in revenue if the noise problem persists.

Fortunately, hospitality-specific soundproofing solutions exist that are able to address the primary culprits of noise ingress windows and patio doors to cut external noise by as much as 95%, without replacement or major renovation.

Already utilized in many lodging facilities across North America, these cost-effective solutions in many ways still remain a best kept secret. This is primarily because there is some confusion about the possible options, which can range from replacing double pane windows to inserting sheets of Plexiglas. Available from various window suppliers, these products have a limited ability to reduce exterior noise.

As a result, many hospitality facility owners and managers are instead turning to the soundproofing industry for solutions engineered for maximum noise reduction to deliver true peace and quiet.

Multiple studies have shown that 90% of exterior noise enters through windows, not walls. Unfortunately, simply replacing the windows seldom adequately resolves the problem. Double or triple pane windows, for example, filter out slightly more noise than single pane, if any. Although effective at insulating from external heat or cold, these products are not truly engineered for soundproofing.

With double pane windows, the two pieces of glass within the frame vibrate, which actually creates more noise. Also, the air space for both double and triple pane windows does little to retard the sound vibrations.

Much of the noise that enters through windows comes through leaking window seals. Conventional window seals fail with age, so any partial relief experienced by replacing windows may be short-lived.

To gain an edge over rivals, some hotels are turning to soundproofing companies that have background and expertise engineering products used in highly noise sensitive environments, like recording studios.

My company has created a second window that can be installed in front of the existing windows. The product is designed to match and function like the original window, no matter its design or whether it opens or closes.

This inner window essentially reduces noise from entering on three fronts: the type of materials used to make the pane, the ideal air space between original window and insert, and, finally, long lasting seals. The combination can reduce external noise by up to 95%.

When choosing such soundproofed windows for a hotel project, the most objective measure of sound reduction is the windows Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating. In this rating system, the higher the number the more noise is stopped. A typical rating for standard windows is 26 to 28, for example. These acoustic soundproof windows, by comparison, earn a 48 to 54 STC rating.

Since external noise can also enter sliding glass doors, which are common on ground floor hotel rooms or upper level rooms with patios, similar soundproofing strategies can also be effectively applied in these applications. Like the soundproof windows, a second sliding glass door can be added, but mounted either inside or outside an existing sliding glass door. This can eliminate up to 95% of external noise entering through the patio door.

Soundproofing hotel windows and sliding glass doors can also provide benefits in reducing energy costs. Adding the inner window provides an additional layer of insulation.

Whether hotel owners and managers seek to protect their customers from stressful external noise intrusion, offer more peace and quiet, or significantly reduce heating-cooling related energy costs, economically soundproofing existing windows, rather than replacing them, can provide a real competitive edge.

Brown is the owner of Soundproof Windows, Inc., headquartered in Reno, NV and founded in 1998. He initially developed the first version of a Soundproof Window to solve his own noise problems. Browns background knowledge about windows came from working with his father, who worked for a high quality storm window company.

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Soundproofing With Window Retrofits - Facility Executive Magazine

By Drew Brooks, Military editor

Fort Bragg doesnt have the large clean energy projects of some other military installations.

You wont find sprawling fields of solar panels, like at Fort Stewart, Georgia; or a large biomass plant that supports the installations entire energy needs, like at Fort Drum, New York.

But what the nations largest military installation lacks in scale, it makes up for in diversity.

In addition to power provided by outside utilities, Fort Bragg is creating energy with geothermal wells, solar panels and, in the future, a hydroelectric turbine on the Little River.

Fort Bragg, long a leader in a variety of Army programs, has become a test bed of sorts for renewable energy sources and energy-efficient improvements, according to Audrey Oxendine, chief of energy and utilities on Fort Bragg.

Oxendines office keeps close watch of the installations energy usage, tracking consumption across Fort Braggs more than 55 million square feet of building space. They also manage privatized utilities on post and oversee efforts to encourage recycling and conservation among the installations estimated 54,000 troops.

The biggest driving factors for Fort Braggs clean energy push, Oxendine said, is a desire to cut down on energy costs while also providing more security to the installations utility infrastructure.

Fort Bragg spends about $45 million a year on electricity alone, she said. And the unique units who call the post home including special operations forces and much of the nations quick-reaction force cant afford to be out of power.

At the same time, the installations size a full one-tenth of the Army is housed at Fort Bragg and the space those troops require prevent the post from having more large-scale projects.

Thats the most daunting thing, I think, Oxendine said. The size.

The size comes with big demands, she said. For example, while Fort Drums peak power demand is 32 megawatts, the peak demand at Fort Bragg is 132 megawatts.

But despite its size, the installations relatively low energy rates when compared to other installations preclude some large scale programs.

Its a double-edged sword, Oxendine said.

If a project doesnt pay for itself or pay back significant cost savings over time, she said the installation doesnt pursue it.

Thats why theres not more solar power on post.

It almost makes it impossible, if not at an enormous scale, Oxendine said. And theres no space on post for a sprawling solar farm.

Despite those challenges, Oxendine said Fort Bragg has found other ways to utilize renewable energies and has made significant progress at improving energy efficiency in the last decade.

One of the installations largest projects involved the $13.3 million geothermal heating and cooling systems that were installed in several buildings in Fort Braggs historic district in 2015.

Other efforts have been driven by a Department of Defense program meant to marry new technologies with military energy needs.

The Environmental Security Technology Certification Program, or ESTCP, is a program started in 1995 that encourages outside companies to partner with the Army to find solutions to energy problems.

Officials with the program have called Fort Bragg a critical partner for the program and an instrumental energy test bed.

In recent years, Fort Bragg-based ESTCP projects have included new insulation meant to prevent energy loss in buildings and systems to optimize energy efficiency on post.

Another project, with construction starting next month, will create a microgrid within the 82nd Airborne Division.

The grid will allow the installation to maintain power to a section of post near Ardennes and Campobello streets, even when the rest of Fort Bragg is suffering from an outage.

Another such project is at the Hercules Fitness Center on Pope Field, where officials have installed solar panels on the gym roof to power dozens of lights and several large fans.

Oxendine said there had been complaints that the gym, especially the weight room, was uncomfortably warm and humid during the summer.

The solar panels are providing energy to help solve that problem and eventually will be tied into a new heating and air conditioning system.

Across the entirety of post, Oxendine said Fort Bragg has several solar panels, affixed to gyms, dining facilities and even a parachute drying tower.

But the Hercules panels are unique in that officials are not converting the electricity from direct current to alternating current.

Its more efficient, Oxendine said, explaining that converting the energy would result in a loss of 7-8 percent of power.

Army leaders are unaware of any similar experiment with direct current electricity on another installation. Eventually, Fort Bragg officials hope they can use the more efficient system to power the bulk of the Hercules Fitness Center and could eventually install similar systems on other Fort Bragg buildings.

That ones a good example of what were doing, Oxendine said. Private companies come to us with these ideas.

Fort Bragg leaders have provided Army energy leaders with a tour of their Hercules project in recent weeks, but Oxendine said another project is creating just as much excitement, although its still in the planning phase.

She said a $1.8 million project will install a hydroelectric turbine in the Little River, at the site of Fort Braggs old wastewater treatment plant.

The turbine will create 275 kilowatts of energy to feed into the installations electrical systems and will pay for itself within 14 years, Oxendine said. Overall, the project is expected to create a total savings of $2.7 million and could open the door to more hydroelectricity projects on post.

Military editor Drew Brooks can be reached at brooksd@fayobserver.com or 486-3567.

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Seven principles of a healthy indoor space include:

Keep it dry.

Keep it clean.

Keep it well ventilated.

Keep it pest free.

Keep it contaminant free.

Keep it safe.

Keep it well maintained.

Keep it dry. Damp and wet environments make it possible for dust mites, cockroaches, rodents, and molds to grow and thrive. Repair all plumbing and structural leaks immediately. Make sure rainwater flows away from the structure. Open windows or use exhaust fans so steam does not build up in bathrooms or kitchens.

Keep it clean. Clean environments help reduce pest infestations and exposure to harmful irritants, such as pollens, dust and toxic contaminants. First, try to keep these things outside. Then, use smooth and cleanable surfaces. Reduce clutter, as it serves as a place for pests to live and dust to accumulate. Always damp mop and dust, to keep from scattering dust into the air and having it settle somewhere else. Always follow label directions on cleaning products.

Keep it well ventilated. A supply of fresh air can help reduce exposure to indoor allergens and asthma triggers as well as other contaminants. The best solution is to install a ventilation system into the heating and cooling systems. If this is not possible, use exhaust fans and open windows, especially when cleaning, cooking, or using chemicals.

Keep it pest free. All pests, including cockroaches, mice and rats, require food, water, and shelter. If these are lacking, then pests will go elsewhere to live. The best approach in combatting pests is to use Integrated Pest Management. The three components of IPM are:

Monitor Know if you have pests, what they are, and how severe the infestation may be.

Prevent Keep the pests from getting inside by sealing all cracks and holes in the outside walls and making certain that food, water, and shelter are not easily available to pests.

Control Once the pest has been identified, first use the least toxic method of control, such as a trap. If pesticides are needed, use the appropriate type, placing it where pests are usually found in cracks and crevices.

Keep it contaminant free. Contaminants that can be found inside include lead, radon, pesticides, volatile organic compounds, environmental tobacco smoke and carbon-monoxide. To keep indoor environments contaminant free, test for radon, install carbon monoxide detectors, use lead-safe practices to fix deteriorating lead paint, establish smoke-free environments and store and use chemicals, paints and cleaning products safely.

Keep it safe. Many injuries occur indoors, especially within the home. These include falls, burns, and poisonings. Prevent injuries by properly labeling and storing all chemicals, including medicines and personal-care products, securing loose rugs, keeping stairs in good repair, removing hard and sharp surfaces and installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Keep it well maintained. Poorly maintained structures are at risk for pests, moisture, deteriorating lead paint and other structural problems. Inspect, clean and repair routinely. Take care of minor repairs and problems before they become large repairs and major problems.

UT Extension provides a gateway to the University of Tennessee as the outreach unit of the Institute of Agriculture. With an office in every Tennessee county, UT Extension delivers educational programs and research-based information to citizens throughout the state. In cooperation with Tennessee State University, UT Extension works with farmers, families, youth and communities to improve lives by addressing problems and issues at the local, state and national levels.

For more information on this or other family and consumer sciences-related topics, contact Shelly Barnes, family and consumer sciences Extension agent for UT Extension in Wilson County. Barnes may be reached at sbarnes@utk.edu or 615-444-9584.

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Shelly Barnes: Providing safe and healthy places to live, work, play - Lebanon Democrat