http:// 2013-05-21T23:30:00Z 2013-05-21T23:30:00Z solarmax-launches-into-the-u-s-solar-market

Sydney, Australia, 22 May 2013 – The Swiss inverter manufacturer Sputnik Engineering, with more than 20 years of experience in the solar industry, launched with its SolarMax brand into the United States market and celebrated its Atlanta, Georgia area office opening. The operational expansion will allow SolarMax to deliver its portfolio of Swiss-quality grid-connected PV inverters to the rapidly growing U.S. solar market. To support growth, the company recently staffed up the facility, which houses sales and research & development, for the new U.S. arm of the company. SolarMax’s first U.S. office is headed by technology and PV solar industry veteran, Alan Beale, who will head sales efforts in the U.S. market. Beale comes to SolarMax from REFUsol, where he was Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Prior to that, Alan held executive leadership roles at Canesta, Immersion Corporation, Clarity LLC, SGI and General Electric. The U.S. solar market experienced record-breaking 76% growth in 2012 and is the fastest growing energy source in the U.S., according to recent research from GTM Research and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). “We firmly believe that the growth in the U.S. market is just getting underway and there is enormous opportunity for SolarMax. The generation of electricity from the sun has reached grid parity in some states today with more to follow shortly. Residential and commercial customers alike are realising that solar now makes sound economic sense,” said Alan Beale, General Manager, SolarMax USA, Inc. SolarMax’ local presence will enable them to grow and build up new customer relationships abroad and maintain the high level of pre- and after-sales services. SolarMax will complete testing and certification of its commercial- and industrial-grade PV inverters according to UL standards for use in the U.S. market. The PV inverters will be available across the U.S nation as early as this summer. -Ends- About SolarMax Sputnik Engineering AG, a Swiss company, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of grid-connected solar inverters. Under the name SolarMax the company develops, produces and sells inverters for every system – from photovoltaic plants on single-family homes whose kilowatt output is modest, to the solar power plants whose output is measured in megawatts. The inverter is a key component of the solar plant, transforming the generated direct current into grid-compliant alternating current. 20 years of experience are not only reflected in the Swiss quality, highest efficiency, reliability, and durability of the SolarMax products, but also in the way Sputnik offers its customers excellent international support in the field of after sales, comprehensive warranty services, and intelligent solutions for system monitoring. SolarMax is positioned internationally and currently has approx. 360 employees at the headquarters in Switzerland and at its locations worldwide, including Australia. Media Contact Anthia Crosby Espresso Communications Ph: +61 8016 2200 M: +61 422 072 717 E: anthia@espressocomms.com.au

2013-05-21T04:18:58Z modular-wall-systems-wins-industrial-product-of-the-year-and-steel-innovation-of-the-year-awards

Modular Wall Systems has been awarded the Industrial Product of the year and Steel Innovation of the year awards in the 2013 Manufacturers’ Monthly Endeavour Awards. The annual Manufacturers' Monthly Endeavour Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in Australia's manufacturing industry.This year’s winners were announced during the biggest awards ceremony in the history of the Endeavour Awards. The event, hosted at the Sofitel Melbourne Hotel, featured various influential speakers, including Shadow minister for industry Sophie Mirabella and Manufacturing Australia's chair Sue Morphet. Modular Wall Systems’ Jason Harvey addressed the audience twice during the night, after receiving awards for both Industrial Product of the year for ThermaMax Panel and Steel Innovation of the year Award for QuikWall. The company’s acoustic fencing product SlimWall Designer Fencing was named a finalist for the Consumer/Trade product of the year. Modular Wall Systems would like to take this opportunity to thank all of its customers, trade partners and suppliers, all of whom support the company’s innovative drive and consistent growth.www.modularwalls.com.au

2013-05-21T02:28:37Z green-planet-grass-landscape-systems-save-time-and-money

Perth,WA, May 21, 2013 - Green Planet Grass manufactures and installs artificial grass in Perth. They pride themselves in building a system that is more than just an “artificial lawn.” Green Planet Grass is an environmentally responsible company. Their products can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, and they go to great lengths to reduce their carbon footprint during the manufacturing process.Synthetic grass has become popular in Perth and many other areas because it has such low maintenance costs. Since an artificial lawn doesn't have to be watered, many residents who install Green Planet Grass save up to 70% on their water bills. In addition, synthetic turf doesn't require regular fertilisers or weed-killers, saving even more maintenance money.It also takes a lot of time to maintain a natural grass lawn, and Green Planet Grass takes almost no time to maintain. This saves an average of two hours a week, or 104 hours a year, which translates into a lot of money when multiplied by whatever the average homeowner makes per hour.Green Planet Grass Landscape Systems are designed to be complete solutions, and include such innovations as custom infills for various uses, U-shaped fibres to make the grass stand straight and tall, and a shock pad that absorbs impact for uses such as play or sports.Green Planet Grass also includes a proprietary drainage system, an antimicrobial coating to prevent bacterial contamination, and an extra barrier that prevents weeds from poking up through the artificial lawn.Green Planet Grass currently has five different landscape lawns. Saturn contains soft, monofilament yarn in heights that vary up to 35mm. It looks and feels very natural. Mars has the GPG U-shaped fibres, which are 36mm in height. It creates a very lush surface.Earth is the most versatile grass in the GPG line. It is 40mm high, and made of green coloured tape and defibrillated straw, with support yarn made of brown and green polypropylene.The thickest and heaviest lawn in the GPG line is called Jupiter. It is made of a green monofilament pile and nylon thatch. The lawn fibres are dark green in colour and 42mm tall. It is the softest synthetic lawn on the market and is recommended for family use.The Neptune lawn is recommended for commercial use and high-traffic areas, due to its 42mm U-shaped fibres.Justin Everley, Owner of Green Planet Grass, is proud of his Landscape System and choice of complimentary lawns, and currently has over 4,000 satisfied customers: “We put in a lot of research and development into building our Green Planet Grass Landscape System. We started with a mission to be environmentally responsible, and to provide the best artificial lawn on the market today. We know that the word best is subjective, but we like to think that we have succeeded in our original goal.”Everley continued, “We leave nothing to chance with our artificial lawns. We manufacture everything right here in Australia. We use recycled materials when possible, and everything we use is recyclable or biodegradable. We also have tried our best to ensure that we install a beautiful, soft lawn that looks better than the best of natural grass lawns.”Everley added, “GPG lawns are always green and well-manicured, 365 days a year. They require almost no maintenance, and you save a lot on the water bill. And we have over 4,000 satisfied customers to prove it.”Green Planet Grass manufactures and installs synthetic grass in Perth and suburbs. For more information, call 08 9209 2669 or visit their website: http://www.greenplanetgrass.com.au/.

2013-04-24T01:42:46Z rothenberger-anz-brings-back-more-innovation-to-make-plumbing-easier

Continuing its drive for technical expertise, a team from ROTHENBERGER ANZ recently supported its European counterparts at ISH – the world’s leading trade fair for The Bathroom Experience, Building Services, Energy, Air Conditioning Technology and Renewable Energies.   While engaging with the European retailers and end users, the team also investigated the latest offerings in sustainable sanitation, environmentally sound and efficient air conditioning, heating, cooling and ventilation technologies; and future-orientated building solutions.   “We see a big part of our local responsibility being to take advantage of our global network in order to find the best, most innovative products to help the local plumbers by making their jobs easier, work faster and results better” explained Oliver Taylor, Managing Director, ROTHENBERGER ANZ.   Resulting from this expedition, ROTHENBERGER ANZ will launch a number of innovative new tools this year, including the ROLOCK EXPANDER Power Torque tool. The result of 40 years of development, this tool uses ROTHENBERGER proprietary expansion and calibration engineering technology for installing pipelines without fittings. This technology allows pipelines in the sanitation, heating, air conditioning, freezing and gas sectors to be connected cost-effectively without fittings. It also features a new, quick-change system for screw and quick-change heads. Naturally being ROTHENBERGER, it is constructed from the highest quality materials to stringent German engineering guidelines.   ~end~     About ROTHENBERGER ROTHENBERGER has been one of the world’s leading manufacturers of innovative, technologically sophisticated pipe tools and pipe machining equipment in sanitary, heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, gas and environmental technologies for more than 60 years. With more than 5,000 items ‘Made by ROTHENBERGER’, the portfolio includes a complete product range for professional users. ROTHENBERGER regards itself as a partner of specialist retailers for tradespeople and industry. Their own production rate of approx. 60%, and more than 180 patents and trademarks are proof of the innovative strength of the ROTHENBERGER products.

2013-04-12T03:42:40Z modular-wall-systems-selected-as-finalist-in-3-categories-for-the-2013-manufacturers-monthly-endeavour-awards

Hosted by Australia’s leading magazine for the manufacturing industry, Manufacturers’ Monthly, the Endeavour Awards program celebrates and recognises the achievements of industry leaders in their drive to achieve ‘best practice’ in manufacturing. A record number of entries have been received this year, making this the biggest event in the 10 year history of the Awards. A total of 13 awards will be presented on the Awards night. Each award will celebrate the achievements of the people behind some of the country's most innovative manufacturing companies.Modular Wall Systems' has been nominates as a finalist in 3 categories:1. Australian Consumer/Trade Product of the Year Award for SlimWall Designer Fences2. Australian Industrial Product of the Year Award for ThermaMax panel3. Australian Steel Innovation of the Year Award for QuikWallRead more about these products in the rest of this article.Final winners will be announced on the 9th May 2013, during Australia’s biggest and best Manufacturing Awards night of the year. More about the Manufacturers' Monthly Endeavour AwardsSlimWall Designer Fences: a beautiful home deserves a stylish fenceSlimWall Designer Fences is the popular panel fencing innovation that combines a stylish, premium look with proven noise reduction qualities. No longer do home owners need to settle for a fence that does not match the architectural integrity of their homes, or suffer the inceasing noise levels in (sub)urban neighbourhouds. Designed with the DIY handyman in mind, SlimWall is installed within a few days. SlimWall can be custom finished to seamlessly integrate with the existing look of the home. Adding slats, infills, lighting and even a texture paint finish, it's all possible with SlimWall next generation fencing.ThermaMax Panel: one-step modular insulation solutionThermaMax Panel provides an innovative, all-in-one modular insulation solution which represents a major improvement on traditional, multi-step installations. ThermaMax Panels sit in conventional beam and girt structures that are widely used in the mining & energy sector.  The application of ThermaMax Panels results in significant efficiencies in term of cost, time and environmental impact. ThermaMax Panels can be used and adapted for curtain walling, free standing walls or any other developments or projects that require a solution for sites exposed to high temperatures. ThermaMax is also ideally suited as a solution for combustible environments.QuikWall: the world’s first moveable, height extendable temporary walling solutionUsed by Australia’s leading mining and construction companies, QuikWall represents Modular Wall System’s innovative and creative spirit and ability to respond to an identified customer need. Through extensive research and development and in consultation with major mining companies, Modular Wall Systems developed the first free standing, relocatable, lightweight and height adjustable temporary noise wall in the world.  The application of QuikWall results in significant efficiencies in term of cost, time and environmental impact.www.modularwalls.com.au

2013-04-11T04:46:40Z acoustic-fences-6-reasons-why-they-are-ideal-for-suburban-residences

Acoustic Fences - 6 Reasons Why They Are Ideal For Suburban ResidencesSuburban neighbourhoods can hardly be called noise-free zones. If you live in one, you might crave some peace and quiet but fail to find it, even in your own back yard. There is always some form of noise to intrude upon your siesta, be it the traffic outside, the construction in progress nearby or the friendly chatter of your next door neighbour.What can help you keep the noise out is a high quality acoustic fence, and SlimWall Designer Fencing is one such option available in the market. Here are six ways in which these fences are ideal sound reduction options for suburban residences.Keep the noise out with a high quality acoustic fence1. They act as effective sound barriersSlimWall Designer Fences utilise AcoustiMax 50 fence panels, which are typically capable of a 20+dB reduction in audible noise on the inside of the fence panel**site and terrain dependent, every result will differ and this is offered as a generic guide only2. They are easy to installSlimWall consists of only a few components, which makes it an easy-to-install DIY fencing option. While you can arrange for a factory installation, doing it yourself is just as easy. You’ll have plenty of help along the way with freely available guides and how-to videos.3. They are ready to accept a wide variety of featuresSlimWall is equipped with handy provisions for useful features such as letterboxes, intercoms, lighting, gates, decorative slats and infills. The versatility of the SlimWall fence means that the end result will perfectly match the architectural integrity of the home. This is also what makes SlimWall so popular compared to fencing options that do not allow for stylish integration with the existing look of the home.4. They are of the highest qualitySlimWall fences are manufactured by Modular Wall Systems to the strictest international ISO9001 quality control standards. This means that you can rely on ease of installation, a premium product and excellence in customer service. Modular Wall Systems also takes their environmental responsibility seriously and is registered as a carbon offset company.5. They add privacy and style to your homeA SlimWall Designer Fence is a good choice if you want to increase the privacy of your living space whilst also adding value to your home. Its wall panels have been crafted to accept acrylic paint and textured paint, so you can decide on a variety of finishes for your wall. Individual neighbours can choose their own preferred finish on each side of the wall, possibly avoiding some unnecessary disputes!6. They are cost effectiveSlimWall saves you the hassle of having to search the market for construction materials, hire installers (although that is also an option), worry about strip footings, chipping or cracking. In the long run, this translates into money saved, which is music to the ears of any home owner.All in all, if you’re looking for a fence that reduces noise around your home, adds value and a touch of class, an acoustic fence such as SlimWall is an excellent option.SlimWall Designer Fences offer proven noise reduction and a stylish, designer look.www.slimwall.com.au

2013-04-11T03:45:49Z modular-wall-systems-production-to-delivery-system-6-steps

Modular Wall Systems' Production To Delivery System - 6 StepsYou've ordered your new modular boundary wall from Australia's industry leading supplier:Modular Wall Systems. Read on to 'ride shotgun' with a typical order and see the procedure that it follows from deposit to delivery to your home or business.1. Production checkYour customer order sheet is checked to ensure that all the required information is there. The guys at Modular Wall systems know their product at a ‘nuts & bolts’ level, so anything you may have missed in the excitement of choosing your wall will be picked up and rectified. 2. ManufactureWith 100% Australian manufacture and design, all wall systems are produced in Caringbah, NSW. Clean, modern and precise, this is where the action is. The client order shifts from one display board to another, as it moves from scheduling through to manufacturing. Specialist machinery produces most of the wall components under one roof. Modular Wall Systems does not rely on the import of foreign components, which means that you can rely on accurate production and delivery times.  3. PackingThe order sheet gets the once-over again as all of the parts are brought together. The distance the wall is transported and the way it will be unloaded determines how it gets packed. All of Modular Wall Systems’ products are delivered with detailed installation instructions, extra nuts and bolts and anything else required for fast and easy installation.  4. DispatchYou will receive a call from Modular Wall Systems’ head office to confirm your delivery details. We will make sure any order arrives when and how it was asked to.  5. DeliveryWith a daily national distribution network across Australia, there is no delivery challenge Modular Wall Systems can’t meet. From collection at the factory through to interstate crane-truck deliveries, it's all possible. Knowing that Modular Wall Systems has completed residential and commercial boundary walling projects in even the remotest areas of the country, as well as internationally, your delivery is in safe hands. 6. Customer careModular Wall Systems offers unrivalled customer support, with the largest database of installation guides, videos and fact sheets available in the industry. The company also offers a dedicated support team that is on hand to help answer any questions you may have. Work with products invented and manufactured by the industry leaderModular Wall Systems is the original inventor of the modular wall system. The company has rapidly grown to become the industry leader in acoustic and boundary wall solutions. We stand for quality, innovation, precision engineering and unrivaled customer service. www.modularwalls.com.au

2013-04-09T02:07:32Z australian-landscapers-embrace-modular-wall-systems-masonry-wall-alternatives-to-extend-the-scope-of-their-businesses

With more than 6000 residential and commercial projects completed across Australia, Modular Wall Systems’ cost effective, stylish acoustic boundary walling and SlimWall designer fencing solutions are proven to provide a highly successful proposition for Australian landscaping professionals and their clients. Landscaping professionals looking to expand their scope of service were unanimously enthusiastic about the products, which were featured at the Landscape Australia Expo in Sydney last year. The modular panel walling sector grows at an average rate of over 35%, year on year, and is predicted to grow exponentially in years to come. Landscaping professionals across Australia are benefitting their businesses by extending the scope of services with Modular Wall Systems’ high quality products. They are proven to respond to the growing demand for alternatives to masonry walls, colorbond and paling fencing from residential as well as commercial clients.  Modular Walls Systems are the original inventors of the modular walls concept. Since its introduction in 2004, the concept has firmly anchored itself as an alternative to masonry walls and traditional fencing options. Modular Wall Systems, as the industry leader, stands for innovation, precision engineering and customer service excellence. Landscaping professionals trust the company to provide them with all the support they need to effectively use Modular Wall Systems’ products. This renders the products a viable option for any type of landscaping business.    Modular Wall Systems’ EstateWall, VogueWall and TrendWall options offer the right blend of flexible solutions to match any landscaping project as well as the architectural integrity of any home.            Why landscaping professionals are excited about Modular Wall Systems’ alternatives to masonry wallsModular Wall Systems’ walling products enable the landscaping professional to expand their portfolio of services in a number of ways:Reduced cost: a Modular Wall System offers considerable cost and time savings over a comparable masonry wall. The system does not require bricklayers, earth moving equipment, renderers or expensive strip footing.Reduced labour: Most landscaping professionals are perfectly qualified to install a Modular Wall Systems without requiring additional labour. Installation is typically done within days.Reduced lead times: a Modular Wall System is delivered within a few days, negating lead times for to bricks or bricklayers.Last minute opportunity: The installation of a Modular Wall System is hassle free. This means that the wall can be added at any stage of the project, even at the last minute, without disturbing landscaping work that was done previously.Versatility: Modular Wall Systems’ walling products are easily customisable with gates, slats, lighting and letterboxes. They can be finished with an acrylic paint, texture paint, acrylic render finish and even stone cladding to seamlessly match the overall look and feel of the landscaping project. Modular Wall Systems are available in various heights and styles.Ease of use: Modular Wall Systems’ walling products are ready to accept wiring, are lightweight and great for sites that would normally be inaccessible to masonry walls. Reduce neighbourhood & road noise: The Modular Wall System has been National Acoustic Laboratory tested and rated. Up to a fourfold audible reduction in traffic and neighbour noise can be expected.Strong and durable: Precision engineering combined with composite panel technology provides a strong, durable, rigid but light weight wall which is virtually maintenance free and which allows for future ground movement.Excellent customer service: Modular Wall Systems provides landscaping professionals with a dedicated support team, technical documents and drawings for various project solutions. Modular Wall Systems’ residential walling solutionsEstateWall An EstateWall is designed to closely mirror the dimensions of a brick wall with large piers. It’s Modular Wall Systems’ premium option and ideal for decorative front walls that make a grand statement. EstateWall also easily suits boundary walls, acoustic walls and security perimeters. VogueWallVogueWall is Modular Wall Systems’ most popular wall and is designed to mirror the dimensions of a single brick wall with piers. Decorative in its own right, VogueWall makes a statement along front walls and fences and is ideal for boundary walls, feature walls and privacy walls.TrendWallTrendWall is the most cost effective option. It’s most common applications are for boundary walls, screening or privacy walls and feature walls. SlimWall Designer FencingSlimWall is the designer fencing alternative to standard colorbond or timber fencing. It offers proven sounds reduction qualities and a stylish look.Typical wall constructionMore information?Download Modular Wall Systems' Residential brochureDownload Modular Wall System's Commercial brochureDownload SlimWall brochureRequest a free measure or quoteThe Modular Wall Systems website and SlimWall website offer detailed information on all products and give access to installation manuals, instruction videos and more. For those with specific questions, Modular Wall Systems’ dedicated customer service team are on hand to help. Call 1300 556 957 today.

2013-04-09T01:57:19Z how-much-does-a-modular-boundary-wall-cost-1

"Due to the time efficient nature of a Modular Wall System boundary wall installation, complete project pricing is typically much more economical compared to a conventional brick or masonry wall."Modular Wall Systems supply a wide variety of residential and commercial wall types. Specific wall types, variations in height and customisation are all reflected in the final cost of your project.What follows below is an indication of prices you can expect to pay for the most popular modular garden walls.Price Indication residential walls(Indicative price per square meter EX GST and freight, no customisation (no infill or gates), supply only)EstateWall  $147.00(Incorporates the AcoustiMax 75 Sound Reduction Panel)VogueWall  $134.00(Incorporates the AcoustiMax 75 Sound Reduction Panel)TrendWall  $117.00(Incorporates the AcoustiMax 40 Sound Reduction Panel)Commercial wallsModular Wall Systems are also very well established as the industry leading provider of commercial, mining, infrastructure, acoustic and noise barrier walls. For commercial wall prices or project specific pricing contact Modular Wall Systems: 1300 556 957 or visit the website: www.modularwalls.com.au

2013-04-09T01:26:20Z are-you-a-fencer-or-landscapers-looking-for-an-exciting-new-fencing-idea

We work with fencers and landscapers on a daily basis. We meet them at trade shows, on site and at their offices. One thing that we know about these tradesmen is that they take pride in their work and are always on the lookout for new products. Particularly products that are easy to work with, cost effective and that offer added value to their customers or projects. Even before we were manufacturing SlimWall at Modular Wall Systems, we received regular phone calls asking about a slimmer type of modular wall that would work as a fencing alternative. The need for something more appealing than colorbond, timber fencing or other traditional options had been there for quite some time. As the industry leader in acoustic and boundary walls & fences, Modular Wall Systems challenged itself to launch a stylish, premium modular fencing product with noise reduction qualities. Earlier in 2012, SlimWall Designer Fencing was introduced. It has proven to be the sought after fencing alternative that fencers and landscapers were looking for.      Perfect as a general garden fence, front fence, feature wall and acoustic fence, the SlimWall Modular Fencing System is popular because it can be finished to seamlessly match the look and architectural integrity of any home. For fencers and landscapers looking to extend the scope of their business with a lightweight, stylish fencing solution, SlimWall is the popular choice.Apart from stylish design, SlimWall offers many other advantages:Ease of use: SlimWall is lightweight, installed within a day and ready to accept wiring. Versatility: SlimWall is easily customised with gates, slats and lighting. The fence can be finished with an acrylic paint, texture paint, acrylic render finish and even stone cladding to seamlessly match the overall look and feel of the landscaping project. SlimWall is available in various heights.Last minute opportunity: The installation of a SlimWall Designer Fence is hassle free. This means that the wall can be added at any stage of the project, even at the last minute, without disturbing landscaping work that was done previously. SlimWall is ideal for those tight areas in the garden and can be used on level and sloping sites.Acoustic fence panels: SlimWall uses fence panels that have been National Acoustic Laboratory tested and rated. Up to a fourfold audible reduction in traffic and neighbour noise can be expected.Strong and durable: Precision engineering combined with composite panel technology provides a strong, durable, rigid but light weight fence that is virtually maintenance free.Full support: SlimWall Designer Fencing stands for unrivalled customer service, providing a dedicated support team, technical documents and drawings for various project solutions.Do you want to expand your fencing or landscaping business with a top of the range acoustic panel fencing solution?The SlimWall website offers detailed information on residential as well as commercial walling solutions and gives access to installation manuals, instruction videos and more.For those with specific questions, Modular Wall Systems’ dedicated customer service team is on hand to help. Call 1300 556 957 today.

2013-04-08T04:05:49Z melbourne-water-alliance-victoria-reduces-generator-noise-with-modular-wall-systems-acoustimax-75-panel-solution

Melbourne Water Alliance Victoria performed initial noise testing during generator commissioning. Tests showed that the backup generator for one of the pumping stations could possibly exceed EPA decibel levels when operated. Melbourne Water Alliance approached Modular Wall Systems for a quick, cost effective and visually pleasing solution that would prevent this from this occurring. Desired solutionIn order to prevent noise complaints, a custom sound enclosure around the specific generator was required, meeting the following criteria:- reduce noise levels below limits for night & day time operations - no strip footings, due to unknown underground services- installation within 3 days- cost effective in comparison to a masonry alternative- flexibility in choosing the colour of the wallModular Wall Systems’ solution for Melbourne Water Alliance VictoriaA three meter high VogueWall with AcoustiMax 75 noise reduction panels was installed and custom finished within 2 days. Noise levels are now reduced to below acceptable limits, allowing local residents to once again enjoy peace and quiet in their immediate surroundings.Modular Wall Systems are the industry leader in stylish, acoustic & boundary walling solutions.www.modularwalls.com.au

2013-04-05T02:42:30Z how-to-insert-a-water-wall-sheet-descent-in-your-modular-wall

How to insert a water wall (sheet descent) in your modular wall"A sheet descent water feature (water wall) can be a real highlight of your outdoor entertaining area."Traditionally installed in masonry walls, the Modular Wall System offers the home handyman a quick and inexpensive way of creating a stunning water feature with much less hassle.Note: this instruction assumes that the back side of the modular wall is not visible and is within your property boundary.How to insert a water wallStep 1.Select an appropriate spillway. We recommend stainless steel spillways because they are durable, simple to install and easy to clean. As a maximum we recommend that the spillway is less than half the width of the wall panel. Also, choose a spillway with the water supply entering from the rear - this will allow you to run your pipework behind the wall. Spillways are available with bottom entry pipes also- these are useful for cavity walls and allow you to conceal the pipework within the wall.Step 2. Cut the modular wall panel so that there is a small slot on the front side (only the spillway protrudes, and you can't see the basin). At the rear of the wall, cut a section slightly larger than the basin and insert the spillway from the rear. Fix it in place with clear silicone and connect pipes from your pump to the spillway.ExamplesAn example of a sheet decent feature installed in a modular wall panel. The panel is finished with a texture coat paint. Note that only the spillway is visible from the front.An example using stack stone cladding on the face of a modular wall. This is achieved by using a spillway with a longer lip, as the stack stone adds about 30mm to the width of the wall. Note that some water trickles down the stonework. We recommend using an aluminium angle to prevent water seeping out of the pond along the wall (see image below). This example uses timber to frame the water feature.Spillway recommendationsThe recommended maximum height for the spillway is 1 meter above the pond - any higher than this and the sheet of water can be scattered by wind gusts, creating a lot of splashing and water loss. Also, a higher spillway needs a bigger pump to lift water up to it, which can be expensive.Modular Wall Systems is the original inventor of the modular wall system. The company has rapidly grown to become the industry leader in acoustic and boundary wall solutions. We stand for quality, innovation, precision engineering and unrivaled customer service. www.modularwalls.com.au

2013-04-05T02:37:15Z how-to-reduce-noise-around-the-home-with-a-fence

How to reduce noise around the home with a fenceIf you’ve ever had your sleep interrupted by the constant barking of your neighbour’s dog or the clatter from a nearby construction site, you know how irritating such noise can be. Sure, you can dismiss it as an unavoidable part of suburban living, but you’re not really as helpless as you think. There’s a very simple solution for your noise-related problems – just learn how to reduce noise with a fence.Absorbing or reflecting sound wavesIn order to ensure that your family is not affected by excess noise around your living space, you can create barriers that can either absorb or reflect the sound waves. Small plants are very effective when it comes to absorbing such external noise, while a sturdy physical barrier like an acoustic fence would be ideal for reflecting this noise.Fences are generally more helpful in cutting down the level of noise pollution in a household, and for this reason, are often preferred.Tips on how to reduce noise with a fenceLonger is better: In order to reduce outside noise, your fence should surround the entire house, or at least the parts of your house that directly face the sources of noise. Sounds can creep in through gaps, so the longer your fence is, the more peaceful your interiors will be. Also, the higher the fence, the better noise will be blocked.Block all potential sources: When installing a sound reducing fence, ensure that the source of the noise (could be a highway, a construction site, or even another building) is not visible from the highest point in your house. A fence that blocks your line of sight in this way can effectively keep your surroundings peaceful and quiet.Green is good: If you can, try and line your fence with plants of your choice for better protection against noise pollution. As has been mentioned before, plants are ideal soundproofing agents as they absorb sound waves – so a fence that’s lined with plants can be doubly effective. When considering lining your fence with plants, be aware of the fact that heat reflection from certain fence types (such as those made out of steel) can burn them. If your fence reflects heat, make sure your plants are positioned at a reasonable distance away from the fence. If you do not like this idea, then choose a fence type that does not reflect heat. A good example of such a fence is SlimWall Designer Fences.Choose the right material: While choosing a material for your soundproof fence, go for one that is light, yet sturdy. Composite panels are perfect, as they are lightweight and made of dynaprimed and galvanised materials, making them sturdy and strong. These panels are less likely to suffer from damage due to harsh weather or from common problems like gaps holes, corrosion or cracking.Sound reducing fences are designed to surround your property and keep all unwanted noises where they belong – outside. By learning how to reduce noise with a fence, you can ensure that your family has a peaceful environment to live in. What’s more, a beautiful looking fence can add a dash of appeal to your house too!SlimWall Designer Fences offer proven noise reduction and a stylish, designer look.www.slimwall.com.au

2013-04-03T03:44:37Z green-planet-grass-wows-smart-ideas-home-show

Malaga, Western Australia, April 3, 2013 - On 1st March through 4th March 2013, the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre hosted the Smart Ideas Home Show. For the fifth consecutive year, Green Planet Grass put their exclusive artificial grass products on display for a very enthusiastic audience. Their presentation was very well-received, and two of their synthetic turf experts were on hand to answer questions.Green Planet Grass is a Perth company who design and distribute synthetic grass in Australia. The core value of Green Planet Grass is to provide an outstanding product and service that is delivered professionally, ethically and with integrity. Every Green Planet Grass product is manufactured in an environmentally-responsible manner, and great pains are taken to preserve environmental integrity throughout the entire process of creation, installation, and maintenance of any Green Planet Grass product.Green Planet Grass manufactures an extensive line of synthetic grass products for residential, commercial, and sport-related use. While they did field a few enquiries concerning commercial and sport-related use, the majority of their time was spent demonstrating products for residential use to Perth homeowners.Green Planet Grass manufactures three main systems for residential use: the Landscape System, the Play Grass System, and the Pet Grass System. The Landscape System is intended for general residential and light commercial use. It consists of five basic artificial grass products. These products are named after planets: Earth, Mars, Saturn, Neptune, and Jupiter. The shortest are 36 mm in length, and the tallest are 42 mm.They also offer the Green Planet Grass Play Grass System. True to its name, Green Planet Grass can customise an artificial lawn for use in background sports, including but not limited to, tennis, football, rugby, or golf.Green Planet Grass also offers their exclusive Pet Grass System, which is designed to make pet ownership as easy as possible on both the owner and the pet. The GPG Pet Grass System is manufactured for extremely efficient drainage of pet waste, is repellent odours  as well as pests such as fleas and ticks, and is very easy to maintain and clean.Justin Everley, Director of Green Planet Grass, thoroughly enjoyed exhibiting his company’s products at the Smart Ideas Home Show: “First of all, on behalf of Green Planet Grass, I would like to extend my appreciation to all of those who made this great event possible. This includes not only the staff at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre, but all of our employees and everyone who visited our booth over the weekend.”Everley continued, “The Smart Ideas Home Show is always a great event, and there is nothing like demonstrating our extensive line of synthetic grass products to the people of Perth. We reconnected with a lot of old customers and made a lot of new friends over the weekend, and we were again happy to have a chance to demonstrate the continued evolution of Green Planet Grass synthetic grass products.”Everley concluded, “Thanks again, and we’ll see you all next year.Green Planet Grass manufactures, distributes, and installs artificial lawns and other synthetic grass products in Perth and surrounding areas.To find out more about their environmentally-friendly synthetic grass products, call 08 9209 2669 or visit their website: http://www.greenplanetgrass.com.au/.

2013-03-06T09:59:30Z new-garden-shed-designed-specifically-for-unit-developers

Sydney — March 4, 2013 — Today Sheds4Less  announced the latest garden shed to be developed specifically for the Australian shed market Alex Cochran founder of Sheds4Less today announced; “We are really proud to bring this new garden shed onto the market. Recently a number of our customers in the unit development market asked us for a 6 cubic metre shed. This was something that we did not make, when I asked why 6 cubic metres, they said that it was becoming common for multi-unit development approvals to contain a clause that stipulated that 6 cubic metres of outdoor storage space must be provided for each dwelling. Here was an opportunity.” From concept to reality in 6 weeks. “Once we realized that there were few shed options available that met this need, we sat down with our engineers and designed a skillion roof shed that could be easily placed against an outside wall, that had a sliding door to reduce space requirements, but crucially provided 6.3 cubic metres of space. This shed was fast tracked in our production facility and six weeks later it is available for sale” Cochran said.  “Not only were we able to get this shed onto the market in less than 6 weeks, we were able to get it under $400 for the galvanized version.” “We believe that this garden shed will become the first choice for developers who want to provide useable outdoor storage space for their multi-unit and townhouse developments” he went on to say. The new Sheds4Less developers shed measures 2.3 x 1.5 x 1.8 metres and has a single sliding door. It provides 6.3 cubic metres of outside storage space. About Sheds4Less Founded in 2012, Sheds4Less is a pure online garden shed retailer that has developed products and systems to make buying, erecting or installing a garden shed cheaper and easier. #########   For more information, press only: Sheds4Less – Alex Cochran , Phone: 0419 019 469, Email: alex@sheds4less.com.au                 For more information on Sheds4Less http://www.sheds4less.com.au