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Powerful Pick-Up
How can I make sure I'm getting the most suction from my vacuum?
Jacalyn High, director of marketing at Boise, Idaho-based ProTeam Inc., answers:
Vacuums come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with a range of prices and functions. The only thing they all have in common is they all have a place where the dirt goes. In most of the vacuums on the market, that dirt deposit is located in front of the motor, obstructing the airflow path—and subsequent suction power.
To get the most suction power, you need a vacuum with an unobstructed airflow. Even if your vacuum deposits dirt in front of the motor, there are still ways you can maximize suction. The No. 1 way is to check the filter often. A clean filter allows you to maximize the airflow and lift, two measurements that identify how much "pick-up power" your vacuum has. It's like drinking a milkshake with a straw: at first it's pretty easy, but once the straw gets clogged, your suction power is gone. The same goes for vacuums. And most vacuum hoses have some bends or elbows where larger debris, like wood chips or carpet shavings, can get stuck. It is important to check the hose and filter frequently so that your suction path is kept clear for maximum efficiency.
Sound Ratings Translated
I am going to be installing a floating engineered wood floor in one of the upper floors in a condominium. According to the condo association, the owner needs an IIC and STC sound rating of 50 or more. What is that?
Bob Pratt, technical director at Norfolk, Neb.-based MP Global Products, answers:
Impact Isolation Class (IIC) and Sound Transmission Class (STC) are both tests for sound traveling through the floor/ceiling assembly from an upper living area to a lower living area. IIC testing is for impact noise, like footfalls, moving furniture, things dropping on the floor, etc. STC is for airborne sound like voices or music.
IIC and STC tests are conducted in sound test laboratories. Field tests (FIIC and FSTC) may also be performed by setting up test equipment in a building. The International Building Code suggests a rating of 50 or more for IIC and STC, but allow 45 or more for FIIC or FIIC field tests.
It is important to understand that IIC and STC tests are not for individual components of a flooring assembly, but for the whole floor/ceiling structure, from the suface of the floor covering material in the upper unit all the way to the ceiling in the unit below. Each IIC or STC test report issued has a detailed description of the floor/ceiling assembly used in that test. For engineered wood flooring installations, the results depend on the type of materials used in the construction of the building, along with the underlayment selected for the application. Most reputable flooring underlayment companies will be able to supply you with test reports covering installations over a variety of floor/ceiling assemblies. This information will help you determine whether your installation will comply with the condo association requirements for sound insulation.
Lengthening Applicator Life
How can I get my applicator to last as long as possible?
Ed Goldstein, president at Minneapolis-based Padco Inc., answers:
Many hours of precise work go into preparing the floor for applying finish, and it is crucial to use an applicator that gives you the best result. Many types of applicators are used to apply floor finishes, and each can cause problems if used beyond its normal working life. Most applicators require some sort of initial preconditioning to remove any minor dust, debris or loose bristles from the manufacturing process. Normally vacuuming, rinsing the applicator and drying, or applying tape to the surface and removing it will reduce the chance of unwanted particles coming off the applicator.
Since the floor to be coated will be smooth and free of snags, the floor's surface will not degrade the applicator, and it will generally last for one entire coat of finish. Whether the applicator should be used again depends on the type of finish, the amount of time until t he next use, and your ability to prevent any residual finish from setting up on the applicator. Contactors often store applicators in plastic bags or storage containers between coats. They may leave the applicator wet with finish or they will rinse it, or immerse it in water or the appropriate solvent. Preventing exposure to air is very important. The crucial factor is ensuring the applicator is soft and pliable, without any areas, no matter how small, where the finish has become hard. Those areas will create streaks in the finish.
There is always a risk that a reused applicator will have small problem areas that can leave streaks or uneven coverage, so before reusing an applicator, examine it carefully. A new applicator is inexpensive—a reworked floor is not.