tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27506015473188281072012-02-20T22:58:47.227ZA (mostly serious) look at Environmentally friendly products to the Irish Construction Industry.Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.comBlogger531100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-84018704995765899612012-02-07T17:02:00.001Z2012-02-20T22:55:23.945Z

The Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan has announced a reduced inspection fee for septic tanks. Mr Hogan said the fee will be reduced from €50 to €5 for the first three months when the charge is introduced in April 2012. After the first three months, registration will cost €50. The deadline for registration will be March 2013.  Read more here The Journal.ie

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-43916795156918645962012-01-04T09:50:00.001Z2012-01-04T09:50:15.242Z

No bill will be sent out for the new household charge. It is a self-declaration system. It must be be paid by the 31st of March 2012 or where a person opts to pay the household charge in instalments, the Direct Debit Mandate must be set up by 1st of March 2012. The household charge can be paid in four instalments of €25 by direct debit. Dates for 2012 are as follows: Instalment number 1:

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-35856936892965253952011-12-15T10:05:00.000Z2011-12-16T10:06:35.850Z

The constant presence, of Oscar Niemeyer on the scene of international contemporary architecture from 1936 until the present time, has transformed him into a symbol of Brazil. His pursuit of great architecture linked to roots of his native land has resulted in new plastic forms and a lyricism in buildings, not only in Brazil, but around the world. For his lifetime achievements, the Pritzker

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-79851766768740010992011-11-15T21:56:00.001Z2011-11-15T22:11:33.062Z

On a recent trip to Germany I came across a LEGO shop. There were about 13 architectural master pieces ‘to scale’ in LEGO elements. A bit pricy from about € 25 to €300. Fallingwater House is about €95. Farnsworth House pictured  below here about €60. Link to Lego Germany.

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-9496572179256917212011-10-23T19:55:00.000+01:002011-11-15T22:11:54.176Z

Winkens Architecture has been short-listed to the final four of the prestigious CMG awards Best Architectural Practice 2011.  This is our second nomination is as many years. The CMG Building and Design Awards 2011 will recognise success in the building, engineering and architecture professions during the past year with a focus on best practice, sustainable design and innovation. On the 2nd of

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-56466118785517710072011-09-19T10:26:00.002+01:002011-09-19T10:33:04.485+01:00

Check out this video of wasps nicking cavity wall insulated beads from an un-plastered hole that was used to inject the insulation!Courtesy of Paul Kenny from the Tipperary Energy Agency via Construct Ireland's sustainable building ezine.Always finish the job!Wasp Video

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-81786417236068735862011-08-31T18:08:00.000+01:002011-09-02T17:27:24.584+01:00

The 'watt beater' 7w LED R7s retrofit lamp by ellydees is designed to replace the standard j-type doubled ended halogen bulb. The watt beater LED lamp has a wide beam angle of 45 degress and offers a massive energy saving of 98% over the linear tumgsten halogen lamp type it replaces, so they say.It’s not cheap, payback will depend on usage.Wattbeater.co.ukLed Vista Shop

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-63017357073482373952011-06-13T12:14:00.002+01:002011-06-13T12:23:43.180+01:00

The HotBlok is a new system to the Irish market. Text taken from their brochure: “The fundamental advantage of HOTBLOK System is its fantastic thermal insulation power factor, U=0,15 W/m2K, which is enough for construction of energy-saving houses, and even passive houses. Walls built in HOTBLOK System will be comfortably warm, breathing, durable and healthy.” It is similar to the

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-71981595695645415092011-05-19T16:44:00.014+01:002011-05-23T09:57:35.859+01:00

James B. the client (and also the builder) is on track to achieve passive Haus Certification. For several weeks he was taping and sealing the dwelling.Today Gavin O Se from Greenbuild, Gorey, Co. Wexford did the preliminary door blower testing to see how the build is performing to date.Gavin also used a thermal anemometer. The air speed is measured at the access points, allowing for comparisons

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-58825340872867019972011-05-11T21:48:00.000+01:002011-05-13T21:30:45.574+01:00

The Irish Government, through SEAI, wishes to encourage people to improve the energy performance of their homes by incentivising the cost of installing various upgrade measures. The Home Energy Saving (HES) scheme provides assistance to homeowners to reduce energy use, costs and greenhouse gas emissions and improve the comfort levels within their home. See the SEAI web site for details.More Info

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-22444815931419310982011-04-11T12:20:00.001+01:002011-04-29T17:33:34.045+01:00

Treatment Wetlands and the EPA Code of Practice.Topics covered:> Constructed Wetlands and Reed Beds for Domestic Applications> Siting and Construction of Treatment Wetlands> Recommending Natural Treatment Systems with the EPA Code of PracticeFéidhlim Harty Wetland Systems (FHWS) was established in 1996 to provide a design, consultancy and planting service for constructed wetlands and to

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-40929710883879598882011-01-20T15:06:00.002Z2011-01-20T15:13:06.451Z

New sustainable heating radiators. With the Low-H2O Jagas Energy Saver up to 12% more energy is saved than with traditional radiators. This technologie has been around for 16 years and are now available in Ireland. They have a great range of different designs to choose from.This is the Jaga site showing the full rangeVersatile.ie in Navan stock them

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-87973448749215399892010-12-21T14:37:00.004Z2011-01-12T11:53:00.637Z

‘Wetlands systems are cheaper, quicker & better for the Environment’While in Monaghan on the 13. December, 2010 the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government Mr John Gormley TD., launched a new guidance document on Integrated Constructed Wetlands (ICW). More on the website below.Dept of Environment websiteICW Guidance Document for Farmyard Soiled Water and Domestic Wastewater

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-43146476083825963792010-11-11T11:45:00.000Z2011-01-12T11:51:55.243Z

A field trial was undertaken by the Energy Saving Trust in the UK to determine the key factors which impact the performance of domestic-scale heat pumps in-situ.The trial included technical parameters (such as system sizing and installation) and customer feedback & behaviour.Instead of revealing outcomes along statistical grounds, or acting as a “brand-vs-brand” competition, the field trial

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-29375737231672113622010-10-10T10:10:00.004+01:002010-10-12T15:03:39.520+01:00

We are proud to announce that we are on the shortlist for the ‘Small Architectural Practice of the Year Award’ 2010. We are one of five Nation wide and the only one from Wexford. The CMG Building and Design Awards 2010 will recognise success in the building, engineering and architecture professions during the past year with a focus on best practice, sustainable design and innovation. The winners

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-84429317221617964452010-09-22T17:35:00.000+01:002010-10-11T22:56:29.767+01:00

Today I had a chance to go to a SIGA workshop.This 3 hour SIGA Workshop on air tightness and wind tightnesswas a hands on demonstration of different sealants and tapes andthe importance of air tightness and wind tightness.I was quite impressed with the range of tapes and sealants.SIGA website

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-44217422712334408902010-07-22T12:20:00.001+01:002010-07-22T12:23:54.064+01:00

I believe that Ecostein has stopped trading in Ireland. If I am wrong please let me know and where I can contact Ecostein.Even though the web site is still live, I cannot make any contact.There are similar good alternatives avalilable.

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-43999933697994719212010-06-29T12:29:00.000+01:002010-07-22T12:25:22.967+01:00

Unfortunately FBT Poroton is no more. After a long time getting established (I was dealing with them since 1998) and receiving the Irish Agreement certificate the company ceased trading. I wish Wolfgang all the best for the future.There are alternatives on the Irish market now.

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-17681042058704754152010-05-23T09:32:00.001+01:002010-07-22T12:24:47.806+01:00

I went to the Traditional Building Crafts Expo at the national 1798 Centre in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford over the weekend.This small expo was quite informative. One of the exhibitors Edward Byrne was a pleasure to talk to. He has Lime Paints, Plaster and more check out his website.Traditional Lime

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-11883014057813919142010-03-25T15:25:00.001Z2010-04-16T15:24:34.229+01:00

This is an American Guide from 'their EPA'. This guide will help you care for your tank septic system. It will help you understand how your system works and what steps you can take as a homeowner to ensure your system will work properly.EPA (USA) Homeowner Guide to Septic tank systems (1.3MB)

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-61880468858692978802010-02-26T15:15:00.006Z2010-02-28T23:18:44.870Z

This is my green roofed Garage. Built two years ago. Today I came across an irish company that design and fit green roofs. I spoke to Rita Higgins for awhile who explained that Anu Green is a Design/Build company based in Cork with an integrative approach to landscapes. They combine innovative landscape design with the modern greenroof and living wall concept.Anu Green Design

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-56632076177741900902010-01-01T11:11:00.005Z2010-10-01T10:36:05.826+01:00

Ireland in Breach of EU waste water lawThe European Court of Justice has ruled against the Irish Government in a case brought by the European Commission on waste water laws.The court found Ireland had failed to make adequate legislation for dealing with domestic waste-water from septic tanks and other on-site wastewater treatment on October 31st 2009.Read Edie coverage440,000 must buy septic tank

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-51982643817667201762009-12-15T16:59:00.003Z2009-12-15T17:07:59.645Z

HALO is open to anyone that owns their own house (apartments are not eligible) provided it was built before 2006. Obviously older houses would receive greater benefit from energy efficiency upgrades i.e. those that were built either during or before the 1990’s.The ESB Energy Services scheme gives you the opportunity to have a free independent home energy survey carried out on your home. You do

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-54203936170941773132009-11-17T17:00:00.004Z2009-11-24T16:14:08.680Z

A new register for architects was launched yesterday in a bid to regulate the sector by ensuring that only architects whose qualifications meet set standards are listed.“Up until now Ireland was almost unique in the absence of registration of the title ‘Architect’,” said Sean O’Laoire, President of The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI).Over 2,700 architects who have met

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-3913248486559478232009-10-19T19:31:00.004+01:002009-10-19T19:37:47.653+01:00

Hydro power made easy with the Archimedean Screw hydro turbine.Eco Evolution are appointed agents in Ireland for Mann Power Consulting Ltd. UK. Mann Power are the sole UK authorised dealer for the Rehart range of Archimedean Screws manufactured in Germany. The turbines can be under ground or open and do not harm fish.Eco Evolution - installers of wind, solar and hydro energy solutionsoperate from

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-9288376110980191662009-09-14T14:41:00.003+01:002009-09-14T14:56:10.238+01:00

I came across this in the City West, Dublin, Self build show. NON-ITCH aka ECO WOOL is made from Recycled Plastic Bottles that is free from floating fibres or dust and so avoids skin irritation and respiratory problems normally associated with other forms of insulation. I got a sample and it’s like rockwool or fibreglass only white and does not itch. It is now available in Ireland.

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-67885801048353727122009-08-20T22:11:00.003+01:002009-09-14T14:57:33.292+01:00

We have now purchased a FLIR i5 multi purpose infrared camera from FLIR systems a global leader in infrared cameras. This camera can detect, spot and measure temperature differences over entire surfaces, it produces instant, point-and-shoot JPEG infrared imagery,that carries all required temperature data.The FLIR i5 enables us to analyse the image and create reports in PDF format. It has the

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-58854315387706169752009-07-25T22:29:00.001+01:002009-07-25T22:30:37.687+01:00

JFC Earth-wood - Inspired by Nature, Engineered by Man. A Real Alternative to Hardwood, Earth-Wood is made from reclaimed wood flour (finely graded sawdust) and recycled/reclaimed polymer which has been collected and removed from commercial waste streams. Once removed it is separated, processed, washed, shredded / pelletised and compounded with our wood flour.It can be used for wall cladding,

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-52051294255857240442009-06-27T17:56:00.002+01:002009-06-27T18:02:42.765+01:00

Today at the Waterford Self build show, I cam across LVP Renewables Thermodynamic Solar Energy they are based in Dublin.They say it’s the next generation of Solar Panels that work Day & Night, Hail , Rain, Wind or Shine.They can do Hot water and entire Cental Heating systemsThe LVP Renewables / ENERGIE water heating system incorporates a market leading thermodynamic technology in which heat is

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-14194334576729081122009-05-21T21:56:00.000+01:002009-05-21T22:02:04.733+01:00

SolarPrint is a Irish company based in Dublin. They are developing Dye Sensitised Solar Cells (DSSCs), a novel 3rd Generation printable flexible solar cell technology, which uses abundant, cheap raw materials and employs a low-cost, fast and easy manufacturing process.In the late 1990s new types of solar cells were developed. Electricity is produced by photoactive dyes or conducting polymers.

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-85835084031965408552009-04-01T16:58:00.006+01:002009-04-01T17:05:32.038+01:00

A new brave building company in Wexford are offering Straw bale swimming pools. Albert Doyle of SBSP LTD. says:“The idea is that the well insulated buildings are ideal for swimming pools as the air temperature must be a few degrees above the water temperature. Solar panels on the roof help bring the pool water temperature to a comfortable level. The timber frame structure goes up in no time. We

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-44791412487388748662009-03-18T19:55:00.006Z2010-07-22T12:34:21.047+01:00

On March 28 you can VOTE EARTH by switching off your lights for one hour. Or you can vote global warming by leaving your lights on.The results of the election are being presented at the Global Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen 2009. We want one billion votes for Earth, to tell world leaders that we have to take action against global warming. I know I will turn off from 8:30pm to 9:30pm on

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-28525025665717233402009-02-24T20:34:00.002Z2009-02-24T20:49:48.484Z

It is now possible to connect a Micro-Generator to the ESB grid.Examples of micro-generator includes:Wind-powerSolar-powerMicro combined heat-and-power (CHP) Here is more info:Esb Micro Generator connection There is even talk of a export tariff, so you can "sell electricity" back to the ESB.ESBCS Domestic Micro-generator Export Tariff Decision PaperSome good reading from: National energy training

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-48211265190086409052009-02-24T19:50:00.002Z2009-02-24T19:56:12.813Z

A few weeks back a SUNDAY TIMES investigation has found inconsistencies in the system of awarding Building Energy Ratings. They got three assessments done of the same dwelling with three different results.It’s a shame that this scheme is riddled with problems as it is actually a good idea that one can compare like with like, if the assessments where consistent and done by qualified surveyors.This

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-37685934600613668182009-02-24T19:44:00.003Z2009-02-24T19:50:30.029Z

It’s end of February and I still have not seen ONE advert "House for sale" that has the BER rating with their advertisement.It’s been law since the 1st of January 2007 for all newly-built houses sold or let. From January ALL houses (new or second hand) sold or let must have a BER certificate. There are fines of up to €5,000 for non-compliance.Anyone seen any BER ratings advertised with house

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-86905723379523443962009-01-31T19:28:00.002Z2009-02-01T18:51:20.277Z

The Dictionary of Irish Architects contains biographical and bibliographical information on architects, builders and craftsmen born or working in Ireland during the period 1720 to 1940, and information on the buildings on which they worked. It was created and compiled by Ann Martha Rowan.http://www.dia.ie

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-47678715621685912902008-12-31T21:09:00.002Z2008-12-31T21:14:34.640Z

Just a word of caution about web directories. There are dozens of Irish web directories claiming to be ‘the’ green directory. Also several other directories claiming that there list is 'the most comprehensive'.The problem is that the prices to be listed vary from FREE to several hundreds of Euro per Year! So one cannot be listed in them all.The online Golden pages.ie might not be the best but at

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-26430131386231488602008-11-30T21:33:00.003Z2008-11-30T22:21:01.156Z

I heard on 'Today Fm' this morning that Colortrend in Celbridge, Co. Kildare have just developed a sound reducing paint. It can kill up to 5 decibles. it should be on the market soon.They are also working on a paint that can kill bacteria. Ideal for hospitals, could be on the market by the end of next year. Based on ‘nano silver’ antibacterial technologies introduced by Samsung.I can see a lot of

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-13727449775282793192008-10-13T21:33:00.004+01:002008-10-13T21:58:31.056+01:00

Renobuild of Ferns Co. Wexford just upgraded the business to provide polished concrete floors to customers, according to the Sunday Business Post last Sunday.Concrete is one of the toughest building materials in the world but it no longer has to be dull and grey. A Renobuild, applied HTC Superfloor™ is a complete process that revitalises and strengthens concrete floors, new or old. The concrete

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-61490168749149226722008-08-27T12:37:00.003+01:002008-08-27T12:45:04.549+01:00

SEALECTION Agribalance® is a open-cell spray foam insulation and air seal that contains more than 20% renewable agricultural-based materials (refined vegetable oils) in the resin. Based in County Cavan, Ireland Eco Spray Foam Insulation, Ltd. was founded by Mr. Cathal Mundy and Mr. Fergal McAloon in 2008.ecofoaminsulation.com

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-65606544536880748322008-07-02T15:18:00.003+01:002008-07-02T15:30:04.833+01:00

Today post came in from Athy ECO Slate. Pretty much like the Ecostar Majestic Slates.AthyEcoSlate manufacture the Roof Slates made of recycled polymer here in Ireland. Colour Black only, usable down to 18 degree roof pitch. Athy ECO Slate are Located Athy Co. Kildare.Athyecoslate.com

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-50796204708554394482008-06-30T13:56:00.000+01:002010-02-10T21:57:36.720Z

Last Saturday I went to the Selfbuild show in Waterford. I attended some seminars which where informative.One of the products on display at the show impressed me.Ecostar Majestic Slates they look and feel like natural slate.But are manufactured composing up to 80% recycled post-industrial rubber and plastic. These post-industrial materials consist of waste that includes car bumpers, car

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-62457775144122941642008-05-25T20:22:00.003+01:002008-05-25T20:32:14.037+01:00

Yesterday I went to the launch of Irelands first Passive House development. These ten passive houses are part of a larger housing scheme, The Village at Grange, in Killerig, Co. Carlow.The detached dwellings are not spectacularly designed and in fact they look like other dwellings in the same estate built to the current building regulations. What is to be commended though is that they are the

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-21493917631993818112008-04-18T12:24:00.009+01:002008-04-21T18:10:50.623+01:00

The Oxyvent Tank captures the air when it leaves the boiler and releases it automatically from all heating systems, eliminates the need to bleed radiators, no more air locks or mysterious noises and totally transforms the operation of the heating system.This system has been around for awhile with several TV appearances. And now it is being tested.An experimental facility was commissioned in order

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-88239564933648712912008-04-01T00:11:00.014+01:002008-04-01T10:47:36.883+01:00

The latest phenomenon in eco-friendly insulation to hit the Irish market is a mat made from the hair of a special breed of Russian hamster. John Gallagher came across the rodents, remarkable for their long thick coats, while travelling in Russia and was inspired to start his own enterprise in his home County Donegal.The A rated hamsters are bred specially for their dense fur which is shorn every

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-86399580520329990072008-03-05T22:11:00.009Z2009-02-24T20:32:45.398Z

Eco-Eye had good news tonight. Hurray! We can now connect our Wind Turbines, creating green electricity, to the national (ESB) grid.We can feed back the excess we produce into the system. And on windless days the EBS provides us with the electricity we need at € 0.1324 per kWh.Dual metering is finally here. But... We give our surplus for free! There is no tariff in Ireland to sell electricity to

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-59882038969433621772008-02-08T16:59:00.003Z2008-03-08T10:50:12.106Z

I have noticed for a while that I have not seen ONE BER certificate value in an auctioneers ad. On a quick search today on the internet, I found that NO auctioneer showed the BER rating of new Dwellings coming onto the market!A Building Energy Rating (BER) is standard calculation of the energy performance of a building. It is rather like the A to G rating for a household electrical appliance. BER

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-81180860303330734982008-02-01T14:14:00.000Z2008-02-01T14:18:42.311Z

Concrete was always considered not Eco friendly. But now there is a eco-friendly cement, Ecocem Ireland is an independent, specialist producer of GGBS (Ground Granulated Blastfurnace Slag) cement. GBBS cement is manufactured from an industrial by-product (blastfurnace slag) - there is no extraction of new materials. The production of CO2 in manufacturing GGBS is approximately 60kg per tonne (from

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-31346897968217454412008-01-30T21:42:00.000Z2008-01-30T21:48:57.280Z

Nothing new but now readily available is Hemp Plaster in ready mixed bags of 20kg or 1000kg bulk bags.It is made from chopped stem of the hemp plant, which is reacted with lime and pozzolan in a unique process to allow rapid drying and hardening.Hempire Building Plaster from Hempire Building Ltd. can even be applied onto wet walls. It has high thermal insulation characteristics and can be used in

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-89595304438621611312008-01-17T17:08:00.000Z2008-01-17T17:21:11.401Z

I experienced my first blower-door-test today. The test was called (before plastering) to see how good sealing (taping joints etc.) was to date. And if there was anything that needed improving or had been over looked.The crew arrive for the test well prepared with door blower and llaptop in Hand. The blower and the generator to power the testing was put in place fairly swiftly. Good start, I

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-47183582651524964022008-01-15T10:06:00.001Z2010-03-05T11:44:08.601Z

Up to now Polystyrene (white flaky packaging) went to landfill. RehabEnterproses now have started to recycle clean expanded polystyrene (EPS). Unfortunately at the moment only in Dublin. South Dublin County Council and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown have collection points.http://www.rehabrecycle.ie/Polystyrene-Recycling.aspxPerhaps if we spoke to our local Recycling centers and made them aware that we

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-87940311482266576312008-01-14T17:01:00.001Z2008-01-14T21:06:15.944Z

With the New Year I thought I should try my hand at blogging !

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2750601547318828107.post-8096773739424209462008-01-14T16:34:00.000Z2008-01-15T10:06:33.931Z

I recently came across a new spray foam insulation product called "BioBased Insulation" It is a soybean based product. Applied as a liquid, it expands to 100 times its original size in seconds.http://www.econstructionproducts.ie/It's been around for a while in the USA.http://www.biobased.net

Zeno Winkensnoreply@blogger.com1