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Home Improvement Tips for an Environmentally Friendly Building

Published January 27, 2012 Before You Buy Your Steel Building , going green , Norsteel Buildings News Leave a Comment

Looking for ways to make your building more eco-friendly? While renovating every now and then is a good idea for a fresh look, you will also be adding value to your home/building. See below for tips on renovating your home to make it more environmentally friendly.

The first thing we look at is roofing. The best way to make this environmentally friendly is to add solar panels. Basically solar panels are put on your roof in the sun and will collect power without adding any fuel or replacing work out parts.  These panels are very popular, modern, green, and used almost everywhere. You might also want to change your roof colour, research indicates that roof colour and the type of material used can help to lower attic temperatures. If you decide to re-roof, consider lighter tiles such as white over the standard shingle roofs and this will reduce heat gain to your attic.

Another great idea is to replace all light bulbs in your building with compact fluorescent ones. Energy-smart bulbs use 70-75% less energy than the incandescent kind and last up to ten times longer! This is just a simple tip but can save you $59 dollars on energy costs over the life of the bulb, which can be anywhere from five to seven years. Also, installing motion detectors outside your home rather than leaving outdoor lighting on all night which will only waste energy, money and disturb wildlife.

One of the most important tips here is do not waste water.  Always check for leaky faucets and get them fixed if you notice a leak as soon as possible. When doing laundry, try to use cold water as much as you can. Also set a good example for your children by teaching them to turn off water while they brush their teeth. Installing low flow showerheads will cut down on water usage and save energy costs.

When heating and cooling your home, invest in a high-efficiency HVAC system that is Energy Star certified and install it in your home. This will reduce the amount of greenhouse gasses emitted and will shave your utility bill.  Look for a product with a higher SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio). This means that the product meets strict government criteria necessary to be deemed “energy efficient.” The standard is 13 SEER, but many heating and air conditioning products have a rating as high as 18 SEER.  Also, cleaning out your air conditioner filters and replacing them regularly will help to reduce costs. If you are not in your home, adjust the thermostat to accommodate the changing temperatures outside.

Finally, another good tip is to install more fans in your home. Ceiling fans can help reduce your family’s dependence on air condition during the hot summer months. In winter, they push heat down from the ceiling.

For more information on home improvement tips on making your building more eco-friendly, please visit us at www.norsteel.com

Source: http://www.toolbarn.com/blog/post/view/identifier/tips-to-be-green/

Residential Buildings and Apartments are Going Greeen Too

Published January 6, 2012 Norsteel Buildings News Leave a Comment
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Flat Back Rain Barrel. Image Source: Shopping.com

The trend of greening one’s space doesn’t only happen within commercial and industrial buildings, but within residential buildings and apartments as well. In fact, a lot of neighborhoods are starting to invest in other methods of going green, in composting food waste—a trend that used to be foreign and strange for most families a couple of years ago.

For example, in Minneapolis, several neighborhoods now have a chutes in their buildings designed for organic food that will be composted. This is only one of the several green features to be found in residential apartments across the US.

Another example is a roofing system that can deflect the heat of the summer.  Tanks are added to collect rainwater, so that the money paid by residents for storm water management is significantly reduced while water capacity stays the same.

The HVAC and plumbing system is an important aspect of green residential buildings as well. A lot of residential buildings have increased energy efficiency, improved insulation for doors and windows, and appliances that have a high Energy Star rating. Bike racks are commonly installed as more people are learning to use other forms of transport rather than the private automobile.

Granted that there are certain costs for going green such as operational and maintenance expenditures, but the benefits far outweigh them.  In fact, building developers are willing to develop and pay for these expenses upfront as the market is starting to demand environmentally sound and sustainable practices.

The response of residents has thus far been overwhelming. In fact, a lot of people looking for apartments particularly look for green residential buildings. With the chance of reducing electricity and utility costs by as much as 75%, there’s indeed every reason to look for a green residential building!

While LEED certification is the pinnacle of green building, even smaller efforts to cut costs and save the environment can help. The benefits will far outweigh the costs for residential green buildings.

A representative at Norsteel will be happy to offer their assistance on finding an inexpensive, sturdy and sustainable steel building to meet your requirements.

New Hampshire Creates Large 9/11 Monument

Published September 12, 2011 Norsteel Buildings News Leave a Comment
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 A large, steel-based memorial in New England, New Hampshire is fast becoming the state’s largest September 11th monument.

A nine-ton, 23-foot steel beam from the north tower of the World Trade Centre stands alongside a large glass tower, representing New York City’s new World Trade Centre. Taking up an impressive two acres of Benson’s Park, the memorial also features five 35-foot walls designed to represent the Pentagon as well as a huge glass area meant to represent the fields in Shanksville, PA.

The project, which was initially designed on a napkin, is headed by Fire Captain David Morin. Morin was inspired after reading an article in the newspaper about New York giving away steel pieces salvaged from the World Trade Centre for use in local memorials.

He applied for a piece of steel and formed a volunteer committee in 2009. Approximately $30,000 in private donations has been raised in support of the project and local businesses have donated more than $100,000 in materials and skilled labour.

The memorial was dedicated on Sunday, September 11, 2011 at Benson Park in a special ceremony that marked the ten-year anniversary of the September 11 attacks. John Lynch and U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Kelly Ayotte were on hand for the 2 p.m. dedication.

Morin and his volunteers picked up the monument’s steel centerpiece a few months back and along with the help of a dozen volunteers from the Hudson Fire Department, and a donated flat-bed truck, they transported the beam from John F. Kennedy airport in New York back to the memorial site.

The beam was draped the steel beam in an American flag and secured to a flatbed. “For something that’s a piece of steel, it changes everyone [and] affects everyone,” Morin told the Wall Street Journal.

To see pictures of the construction site or to learn more about the construction project, visit Newstimes.com or the WMUR 9 New Hampshire.

Effective Dust Suppression

Published August 26, 2011 Norsteel Buildings News , Pre-Fabricated Building News , Steel Building Tips Leave a Comment
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Are you wondering what the most effective method is for dust suppression? Most companies today use a particular method for dust suppression on demolition and recycling projects. The most popular method that is used is to manually spray the area with a hose. But one company by the name of Schielein had been doing some research and found alternative methods for dust suppression. According to the company it was becoming an expensive approach, and one of their employees would spend an entire shift just spraying the work site which was becoming incredibly time consuming. The problem with this method was that it was very ineffective and would dislodge dust from the ground and send it airborne. The volume of the water would quickly soak the debris turning it into a muddy mess. If any of the material had to be taken to a landfill afterwards, it would be very expensive to do so because most of the debris would be water weight.

Finally, after doing some investigating the company purchased a dust suppression unit from another supplier. It would basically create snow and with a few revisions. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a disappointment. The operation and portability were among the primary problems of this machine. After comparing several machines, the company ultimately settled for a machine called DustBoss DB-60 from Dust Control Technology (DCT), it is the largest model in the company’s family of dust management. The machine was very effective. It covered a huge area with a very fine mist. Unlike, other machines they tend to spray huge droplets and create more of spray then fog.

The machine is estimated to save them as much as $2,000 per week. Price always plays a huge factor and before this company purchased this product they made sure to look at less expensive products first.  Maintenance costs and service life was also very important to them before purchasing the DustBoss.  It’s built with all heavy duty components and carries the best warranty in the industry.  They were looking for something with a permanent solution.  This product has been in service for more than six years and it still performing as if brand new.  It’s paid for itself in man power and is helping to avoid work stoppages and potential fines.  The company has also purchased second Dust Boss unit, a DB-30 that’s the right size for on site concrete reycling operations that have become a company specialty. However, the smaller unit is being used for crushing and recycling.  The product has become so successful that the company now is including DustBoss literature in the package when ever they do a quote for a job.  Customers see this as apart of their proposal.

If you’re looking for a machine that will do just this, please visit:  www.recyclingproductsnews.ca or http://dustboss.com/

For more information on our company, please visit: www.norsteel.com

Building a Customized Steel Warehouse

Published August 25, 2011 Norsteel Buildings News Leave a Comment
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Nowadays, building a steel warehouse building is easier than ever.  Warehouse design software, planning protocols and the availability of steel makes it a quick, efficient and cost-effective building material.

Here at Norsteel, we’re well-versed in the steel industry and have extensive experience working with steel warehouse buildings.  Visit the Norsteel website to learn more about how we can help with your large-scale steel projects.

Before you begin the process of commissioning a steel warehouse, there are a few things that need to be taken into account, such as regulations and building codes, budget, projected timeline and any specs that might be important to the builder (such as the number of employees the warehouse will house, the amount of equipment and product that will be inside at any given time, the desired dimensions, etc.).  It is on the onus of the customer to provide a potential builder/contractor with as much information as available when commissioning a steel warehouse building.  This can save time, money and effort for all involved in the project.

Once a steel warehouse building has begun, you will need to consider how the warehouse is to be heated and cooled, among other things.  Another step in the post-construction process is the formal creation of specs and blueprints, both of which will need to be commissioned and drawn up by a professional.

Steel is a highly customizable building material, and all parts will be created to specs at a factory and then shipped in for onsite assembly.  This is a quick and efficient way to construct a building and, provided there are no unforeseen circumstances, the project should be complete in a timely manner.

A finished building requires insulation, paint, doors, windows, and exterior finishes before it can house people, machinery and/or product.  Once complete, a building must be inspected and cleared by an inspector before it is able to open for business.

Harvard University Receives 50th LEED Certification

Published August 9, 2011 Norsteel Buildings News 1 Comment
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Harvard University is known for forward thinking, especially where the environment is concerned.  Earlier this week the ivy league university was recognized by The Princeton Review as a leader in green innovation. Hailed as one of the “greenest” universities in North America, Harvard received a place on the 2012 Green Rating Honor Roll in addition to reaching the green innovation milestone of having produced 50 LEED certified projects.

Earlier this month the U.S. Green Building Council, in partnership with Harvard University, announced publically announced that Harvard’s campus had achieved 50 LEED certified projects. Included in these projects is more than 1.5 million square feet of usable space which includes labs, dorms, and libraries, among other things.  Even more impressive is the fact that six of the fifty projects achieved LEED Platinum certification – the highest LEED certification available under the USGBC’s LEED Rating System.

Harvard University has no plans of slowing down its eco-friendly construction.   An additional 3 million square feet of space at the university’s sprawling campus is currently under LEED-certified construction.  In total, in excess of 90 Harvard construction projects have some degree of LEED certification.

A recent press release by the U.S. Green Building Council states that “energy models suggest that the 14 LEED new construction projects have delivered more than $1.5 million in energy savings annually and a reduction of more than 4,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCDE) annually, which equates to an average reduction of 34 percent below industry energy standards.”

The LEED projects have been made possible thanks to the tireless effort and support of Harvard staff, many of whom helped the University become a world-class leader in sustainable building practices. Building materials are streamlined for efficiency and highly recyclable, like steel.

 “As a university, we have a special responsibility to confront the challenges of climate change not only through academic research but by transforming the way we operate our campus,” Harvard University president David Faust told the Harvard Gazette.

Harvard Data Knowledge Center. Image Credit: Harvard University.

Click here to learn more about Harvard’s sustainable building practices.

Back-up Panels in a All in One System

Published August 8, 2011 Before You Buy Your Steel Building , Norsteel Buildings News , Pre-Fabricated Building News Leave a Comment
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A problem that many architects and contractors face is finding a back-up wall system that will keep moisture out and the heat in.  Even though most component back up systems consist of layers of batt or board insulation, exterior gypsum board, air barriers, vapor retarders or building wraps, there is a company called Moon Township who offer an all in one MetalWrap series insulated composite back-up panel.  This consists of a single thermal, air and moisture barrier back up system. These panels can be used with element exterior or mixed medium buildings using a metal brick and terra cotta exteriors.

Today, builders are looking for a high level of performance as well as easy insulation.  The MetalWrap series does just this by positioning the panel component instead of several separate building materials.  A lot of the problem areas are being removed by providing a single component. This will give the ability to provide a continuous air and thermal barrier for the envelope.  If the layers of the traditional multiple component back up system fails, this can lead to moisture build-up and entrapment within the wall cavity of the building and will result in mold, poor insulation and corroded studs.  With the MetalWrap series panels, they have vapor, water, air and thermal barriers which are all included in one single piece. This will lower the risk for failure by combining all barriers into a single-component.  A major benefit to this is that the system will simplify the speed up for construction.

The problem with traditional system is that they need multiple work crews, more job-site deliveries and coordination of scheduling and sequencing.  With MetalWrap systems, it allows for faster close-in and dry-in and minimal construction waste.  It also includes advanced thermal and moisture protection technology which will control moisture without loosing thermal efficiency.  The way the system works is by combining insulated foam core with a durable metal rainscreen, air and moisture barrier and unique clips, anchors and supports that will meet the requirements of each exterior building material. Most architects do not have to worry about what they are putting behind a building  if they have a combination of brick and metal facade on a building because of the various details that are going to take to transfer from one exterior material to the other. The system can be used on this type of elevation.

The panels are available in 2 to 4 inch thick with up to an R-27 value and can be installed horizontally or vertically. They are manufactured with a high volume of recycled content and are Cradle to Cradle Certified at the silver level and may aid in LEED points. The panels also meet thermal and fire code requirements.

For more information on panels, please feel free to visit www.norsteel.com

Source: Metal Architecture Magazine

Classic Examples of Different Large Scale Steel Building Projects

Published June 27, 2011 Norsteel Buildings News Leave a Comment
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Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany. Image Credit: Ildefonk.

Allianz Arena

The Allianz Arena is a breathtaking football stadium located in Munich, Germany. Completed in 2005, the stadium is arguably one of Munich’s most popular landmarks.

The arena can hold up to a maximum of 69,901 spectators – including  2,000 are business seats, 400 press seats and 106 are luxury box suites.

More than 22,000 tonnes of steel were used to create the structure, with another 14,000 tonnes used to create the arena’s gigantic parking garage which can hold up to 9,800 cars.

Rungrado May Day Stadium

North Korea’s Rungrado May Day Stadium is a stunning building which can seat up to 150,000 people, making it one of the largest capacity holding stadiums in the world.  Its total floor space is in excess of 2.2 million sq ft (207,000 sq m), spread across eight stories. Completed in 1989, the Rungrado May Day Stadium is largely used for sporting events.

Sixteen arches complete the building’s roof, which was created using, 11,000 tonnes of steel.

Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower)

The Willis Tower is a 108-story, 1451-foot (442 m) skyscraper located in Chicago, Illinois. Upon completion in 1973, the Willis Tower rose above New York City’s World Trade Centre, making it the tallest building in the world – a rank that it held for a quarter of a century.  Today, the tower still holds the title as the tallest free standing structure in the United States.

Originally known as the Sears Tower, Sears’ naming rights to the building expired in 2003.  In 2009 insurance broker Willis Group Holdings officially renamed the building the Willis Tower.

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Los Angeles’ Walt Disney Concert Hall  is a beautiful steel structure which first opened its doors in October, 2003.  Designed by Frank Gehry, it is best known for its amazing exterior design, as well as its world-class acoustics.  The Walt Disney Concert Hall is constructed using matted stainless steel and shiny panels.  It truly is a sight to behold!

Steel an excellent building material no matter how large or big the project!

How to Customize Storage Doors on a Slope

Published June 22, 2011 Before You Buy Your Steel Building , Norsteel Buildings News , Steel Building Tips Leave a Comment
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Customizing your steel building with doors and accessories should be fun and easy, but what if your faced with a bit of a challenge?  What if your steel building is built on a slope? Well, you don’t have to worry because many customers just like you have been faced with this common problem.  One company by the name of DBCI had 10 buildings which were all built on a slope of 4 percent.  Most buildings, however are only about 1 percent.  This is why doors have rubber astragal tube-like material at the bottom.

The solution to this problem was to create a door that had an aluminum bottom bar which would be tapered, welded and bolted on certain locations.  The tape would run from about 4 1/2 inches on one end to 2 1/2 inches on the other.  It would then be made from aluminum and spliced down the middle.  A tig welding technique is used and bolts are placed in specific locations that provided taper.  Aluminium is used as a standard for doors because it would be a non-corrosive material and is more functional as far as wear and tear go.  It also gives the door a nicer look.  If the slopes of your building are varied it may be wise to have an installer make adjustments on-site such as removing nuts and bolts. This will make the bottom bar an expandable ruler on each side to help with the slope and create a tight seal on the floor.   This solution will allow workers some room in adjustment.  So when coming across a situation like this, there are a few options out there that can work for buildings on slopes.  This one solution has been helpful to one company and will be helpful to many others facing this problem.

DBCI – a manufacturer in storage doors is the company who came up with this solution.  They spent a whole month trying to figure out this problem and came up with many prototypes. It was a group of men who worked in the shop and each of them had ideas to contribute.  Everyone was co-operative and was excited to take on a new challenge.  The first few materials were delivered in July and then the rest were delivered in September.  The bottom bar was manufactured in Douglassville, GA and then had been shipped to Arizona where the manufacturing plant is located and this material is being used at the bottom of the doors. This is what most companies have done.  DBCI is very proud to introduce this new product which can be a huge solution to many.

For more information on steel buildings or storage doors and accessories, please visit us at www.norsteel.com and someone will be happy to help you with any questions you may have.

The History of the Modern Steel Industry

Published June 21, 2011 Norsteel Buildings News Leave a Comment
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Andrew Carnegie circa 1913. Image Source: Wikipedia.

Steel is our business.  Norsteel is your Number One source for pre-engineered, quality steel buildings, with an emphasis on value, versatility and speed.   It’s no surprise that we understand steel inside and out!  Here’s a short history on the North American modern steel industry.

One of the central figures in the modernization of the steel industry was Andrew Carnegie, an entrepreneurial man who pushed for a cheap and efficient means for producing steel.  His innovative approach put a focus on mass production, which helped regulate the price of steel and make it a more readily available and viable building material.

By 1889, the Carnegie Steel Company was responsible for more of the output of steel in the U.S.  Carnegie Steel was the largest manufacturer of pig iron and steel rails in the world and had a capacity to produce about 2,000 tonnes of pig metal per day.

The United States was the largest producer of steel and the lowest cost producer in the world by 1900.  Output and production had tripled since the 1890s – thanks to innovation and technology that encourages faster and more efficient investments into new production plants.  Demand fell somewhat during a recession at the turn of the century, in and around the time that Carnegie began to contemplate retirement.

In 1901, the Carnegie Steel Company was bought out by John Pierpont Morgan, a prominent banker and business strategist.  The buyout was the largest industrial take over in U.S. history.  Morgan formed the United States Steel Corporation (now more commonly known as U.S. steel) which became the first corporation in the world with a market value of over $1 billion.

Today, U.S. Steel is an integrated steel producer with operations in the United States, Canada and Central Europe and is the world’s tenth largest steel producer.  U.S. Steel is currently the largest domestically-owned integrated steel producer in the United States, although it doesn’t produce much more steel per day than it did in back in 1902.

Thanks to Andrew Carnegie’s innovative approach to steel production, we can now produce and ship steel efficiently and at a low cost.  Talk to us to learn about all the great things we can help you create with this versatile building material.

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