What are the Different Kinds of Scissor Lifts?

Scissor lifts are a type of aerial work platforms. They are mechanical devices often used by construction or building workers, and allows them to reach inaccessible areas, usually sides of buildings. The difference of a scissor lift compared to other kinds is in its structure: they can only move vertically. This is done through the system of folding supports that form a criss-cross pattern, like a scissor.  They are used in factories, warehouses and in construction jobsites.

Scissor lifts have many advantages. For one, they can usually be operated by a single person by means of a hydraulic lever that controls the height of the lift.  They are also the most preferred type of work platforms as they are considered to be safer. The platform of a scissor lift has railings, and usually a bridge which allows one to safely go near the area they need to work on. Compared to other kinds of lifts, one can have a few people at a time within the platform area. 

Scissor lifts also have the prime advantage of having a wide work platform. Most scissor lifts have a big load capacity, to easily transport items. Other aerial platforms, like cherry pickers for example, do not offer this advantage. 

Are you looking to rent a scissor lift to get some work done on your building or home? Renting is a better option than buying. This type of specialized equipment can get very expensive, and for those who are only looking to do quick jobs, this may not be an ideal investment either. The good news is, there are various scissor lifts rental shops online that can guide you on the type of work platform you need, at a budget that suits you. 

Scissor lifts rental shops will usually recommend the best machine for you to use so that you get better use out of your rental, as well as to avoid any untoward accidents. Here are the two types of scissor lifts that you can choose from:

Electric Scissor Lifts

These types of lifts boast of features like pothole protection, and can traverse grades of various percentages. In general, they will have longer runtime, and have the ability to move between types of terrains with ease. Electric scissor lifts are used in areas where wide workspace is required, and would allow for heavier loads at moderate reach and height. 

Engine-Powered Scissor Lifts

Engine-powered or gasoline-powered scissor lifts are best used for rough terrain. They can withstand unpaved surfaces on jobsites better than electric scissor lifts. Most have standard four-wheel drive, and hydraulic levelling jacks. Engine-powered scissor lifts are more suited for heavy-duty work since they have the ability to carry heavier loads and have more workspace.

Tips When Hiring a Pest Control Company in Singapore

Admit it. Insects bug you (pun not intended). The mere sight of a flying cockroach would easily send you running as far as you can from the place where that roach is trying to dominate. But on second thought, it’s just a cockroach. You are waaayyy bigger than that creepy crawler (which also happens to be a flyer).

Apart from roaches, there are other types of insects that are possibly lurking and currently co-inhabiting your place. And mind you, they don’t just hang out in groups or 5. They often live in colony. Yes, they love to build their own community—right at your own home. So when you happen to spot a couple of ants roaming freely in your kitchen, it is highly possible that there are more of them somewhere. So open your eyes and follow the ant trail.

Aside from ants and cockroaches, there are other insects that might be living in the crevices of your home. It may seem an impossible feat, but it is possible for them to be exterminated! How? Follow these tips:

• Know your enemy

Here, we take on Sun Tzu’s teaching on the Art of War. To ensure success in any war (in our case, it’s the war against house pests), it is highly suggested to familiarize yourself with your enemy.

Know what type of pest/s are invading your territory. Research about their strengths and weaknesses. Find out what keeps them alive and how they thrive. Equipping yourself with those knowledge will put you on the offensive mode. It will enable you to properly formulate your line of defense and offense.

• Gather your troops

Take note that we are dealing here with a colony (community). It would be easier to exterminate your enemy if you also rally your troops. Since you’ve already done your research on your enemy, the next step is to look for the right allies. Pest control Singapore would be a lot easier if you seek the help of the professionals.

Keep in mind that there are a lot of pest control companies that you can call out there. In shortlisting on who to call, take note of the company’s specialization. For every kind of pest, there is an equivalent exterminator group.

• Make sure there’s no coming back

Pests are also living creatures. Just like us humans, they also need the basics in order to survive—those are food, shelter, and water. Depriving them of their basic needs will be very helpful in preventing them from coming back.

Even the best pest control in Singapore won’t guarantee long term success of their exterminating efforts if you do not work hand-in-hand with them. Make sure to do a regular house cleaning. Do not leave food unattended and make sure to clean up after you eat and dispose the morsels on the table (if there is any) so as not to attract them.

2014 Home Design Trends in Asia

Home design trends which are becoming more popular in the US like retractable awnings and vintage interiors are starting to take Asia by storm this 2014. Read more on what the hottest home design trends are this year.

1. A tendency towards the spiritual

The figure of Siddhartha Gautama, or Buddha, is becoming a staple in Asian design since his iconic image symbolizes harmonious proportions. Speaking of Buddha, interior decor is also influenced by the Japanese school of Buddhism known as Zen. Zen principles are increasingly being melded within the design scheme to cultivate soothing and peaceful home environment. The feel is very spiritual as it employs the use of neutral hues, simple furniture, natural and organic materials and minimalist lines.

2. Retractable awnings

These are usually seen in shops, cafes and restaurants which are mainly installed above a window or door. Awnings are coverings attached to the exterior of the house and are typically made of canvas woven of acrylic or vinyl laminated to polyester fabric. This is a common US home design trend which is predicted to take Asian home design by storm. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing with the different kind of materials one can use but it also has a very practical use. Retractable awnings can be used at the back part of the house to serve as a covering for outdoor parties or reception. With so many types to choose from, one can opt for lateral arm awnings, side awnings, pop up canopies or solar shade screens.

3. Japanese trends

The emergence of design trends from Tokyo is slowly rising and expected to boom this year in Asia. Paper is being used for interior design to not only promote recycling but also to highlight the design aesthetic in the delicate material. Another design idea to emerge from Tokyo is using Japanese traditions to serve as inspiration. Cultural aspects of the Japanese including ceremonial tea and dining rituals are the focal point of design. The renowned art of folding paper, Origami, also inspires a whole range of home products. Washitsu is also becoming more popular which is a Japanese-style room with Tatami flooring and sliding doors.

4. Modern-Eastern fusion

Asian designs don't always contain ancient or antique elements. Modern designs can have  suspended stainless steel structure on ceilings to represent a modern-day bamboo and reed shade trellis. Straight-lined and dark wood furniture also show modernity with its neutral tones. Chinoiserie furniture, textiles and accessories give off a European flair and adds a touch of whimsy and intricacy in the home design. This style that dates back to the 17th century is often seen in porcelain objects, cabinets and embroideries around the house.

Renting vs Buying Furniture For Event

One of the great dilemmas event organizers face is that of whether to buy or rent furniture for some of their events. The decision to buy or rent depends on many factors. These considerations include storage for the furniture after an event, design of the furniture (does the design allow the furniture to be reused in different settings or themes, for example), cost per piece, required quantity, budget, and various others. This is not as easy as choosing whether to take a bath or not. Renting or buying, when it comes to events planning and contracting, can make or break one’s performance and service. This does not only affect one specific event but can actually the whole operations of an individual events planner (or company) in the long run.

Nevertheless, if you’re event is in Singapore and you’re going the rental route, here are some shops you could visit for your furniture rental requirements:

Events Partner

Events Partner is a young furniture company which rents out modern-themed furniture for events use. They boast of collections by world-class designers and manufacturers, assuring their clientele with premium products to satisfy their needs. Their furniture catalogue is exceptionally extensive and varied that they are able to accommodate almost all, if not all, kinds of events. You can visit them at their office/showroom located at 7030 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5, Singapore or visit their website here.

EON Exhibition Services LTD

EON Exhibition Services is a Hong Kong-based company that has extended their service areas to six other countries in Asia, one of which is Singapore. EON Exhibition is not only a furniture rental company but but they also rent out AV equipment as well. They operate on the principle of energetic and experience-based service with the belief that their core strengths are in on-time delivery and prompt action. Visit their website at http://www.eonhk.com.

Chuang Lam Production (CLP)

CLP is one of the biggest event furnishing and services companies in Singapore. The company has 8 years of experience in servicing many of the biggest corporations in Singapore such as Marina Bay Sands, BMW, and Standard Chartered Bank. They consider themselves as a one-stop shop for all your event requirements. Other than furniture rental, they also provide other services such as events landscaping, piping and draping, carpeting, and events management. They are currently located at #01-04 32 Punggol East, Singapore and you can check out their website here.

Decoding the Flowers

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and soon guys (and girls maybe?) will soon flock the flower shops in order to get the best looking flower for their loved ones. Along with chocolates and teddy bears, flowers (most especially roses) have been one of the staple items during the heart’s season.

Ever wondered why?

Here is a list of the top 10 popular Valentine’s Day flowers and what they actually mean, as compiled by Amanda Greene Kelly:

• Roses

Definitely topping the list is the classic Rose. They come in at a price most especially during the love season. The iconic flower represents love, romance, beauty, and perfection.

• Gerbera Daisies

Gerbera Daisies are automatically associated with beauty, innocence and purity. They are easily identified because of their large flowering heads and lively colors. They also connote cheerfulness—perhaps the reason why it is said that these blooms are the always a favourite to receive.

• Tulips

Considered one of the Valentine’s Day classics for their elegance and affordability. These flowers stand for ‘perfect love’ and they also convey warmth and comfort.

• Alstroemeria

Also known as Peruvian lilies, these South American native is among the popular choices because not only they are very eye-catching, they are relatively easy to find. And because one can see multiple blooms per stem, they are a good choice for creating voluptuous flower arrangements.

• Casa Blanca Lilies

Here’s an expensive bloom. A man who gives a girl a bouquet of this white Oriental lilies surely knows his partner well. These flowers also represent beauty, class, style, and sophistication.

• Orchids

Love, beauty, luxury, and strength. These are the words that are commonly associated with Orchids. They also send an air of exotic seduction—so if someone gives you an Orchid, expect that that person is a bit wilder than you expect, compared to someone who chooses to give a dozen roses. By the way, Orchids are also great for bouquets and pots for they hold up well over time.

• Carnations

Carnations are popular for they are one of the cheapest in the bunch. However, for some reason, these ruffled beauties carry a not-so-pleasing connotation. Perhaps because they also stand for fascination and new love—something that we can also associate with excitement and instability.

• Sunflowers

Just like sun, from which these blossoms are named after, Sunflowers are sure-fire indicator of warmth and happiness. These spirit-lifting flowers are available year-round and they also stand for loyalty.

• Irises

They come in a number of colors, but mostly seen in blue, white, and yellow, and they are automatically associated with royalty. These flowers also connotes faith and hope. When in an arrangement, they are best paired with red tulips or daisies because of the pleasing color combination.

• Gardenias

These flowers are very fragrant and they represent a deep, old-fashioned love. They also mean purity and joy. These flowers are a bit pricey and they are usually sold per single bloom. You might also want to take this piece of insight (for point of conversation in the future)—it is said that a man who buys this flower might have a previous experience of giving this to someone else. Because of the premium price, it doesn’t belong to the default choices of most guys.

So girls, come Valentine’s Day, you might want to visit this post again to check what your guy is really saying. It’s time to decode that flower! Here's a list of romantic places to spend Valentine's in. Enjoy!