Facility Cleaning & Maintenance

SERVING THE FACILIT Y CLE ANING & MAINTENANCE INDUSTRY

JULY 2017

� WIPING OUT GRAFFITI � TREE CARE: DIY OR CALL A PRO? � GETTING RID OF GRUBS

ON THE

OUTSIDE

PA R T O F T H E

Tips for thwarting exterior pests, keeping a building looking its best

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� CONTENTS JULY 2017

PEST CONTROL 12 Silencing the Buzz How to keep mosquitoes at bay

by Bennett Jordan 14 What Lies Beneath Five common insects that can wreak havoc on building lawns

by Steve Tschanz

EXTERIOR CARE 16 Keeping the Urban Forest Green Trees need TLC to survive, thrive

by Robert Lis 22 Writing’s on the Wall Failure to immediately remove graffiti comes with consequences

by John Kalimeris

RESTORATION IN EVERY ISSUE 4 Editor’s Letter

Turf Tales 20 Expert Q+A Painting Problems?

30 Clean Matters

A Tale of Three Cities

SPOTLIGHT

24 Bringing Old Buildings Back to Life Signs stone, brick exterior needs to be repaired

by Jeff Feswick 26 Furniture Rehab

Giving ‘well-loved’ pieces new life

by Andrew Howells 28 Getting Below the Surface

A walk through restoring stone floors

by Ron Ebeyer

6 The Life Aquatic An operator’s guide to keeping the pool open all summer long

by Mehdi Pahlavan 8 No Time to Monkey Around

Controlling pests in zoos must be priority to protect animals, visitors

by Alice Sinia

Lanterns, coils and sprays, bug zappers and electronic repellers that emit a high-frequency sound are not effective at reducing mosquito populations, says Health Canada.

/ editor’s letter /

TURF TALES

M

aintaining my home’s landscape is no easy feat. In addition to keeping up with regular lawn and garden care, I have a new battle on my hands every year (at least for the past five). First it was Japanese beetles devouring my rose bushes, then raccoons digging up my lawn, creeping Charlie taking over my flower beds and black medic choking out my grass. Now, despite all the rain Toronto got this past spring and consistently watering, as needed, throughout the hottest season, my lawn’s not looking so luscious. It’s littered with unsightly brown patches, which before reading What Lies Beneath were a complete mystery. The story is one of five that addresses problems facility managers may encounter outside their buildings and how best to remedy them. Other articles tackle the pesky and potentially life-threating mosquito; painting in the summer heat; graffiti vandalism; and the deterioration of building facades.

Restoration is also a key focus of this issue. In this section, we look at the benefits and process of breathing new life into old furniture, as well as restoring natural stone floors back to their original beauty.

But we begin with our sector spotlight: Recreational Facilities and Public Spaces. First, we dive into swimming pools and what must be done pre- and post-opening to ensure patrons of public aquatic facilities are safe all summer long. Next, we turn our attention to another popular summer attraction — zoos.

Visited annually by more than 700 million people worldwide, according to the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, these animal havens are also a major draw for pests. In No Time to Monkey Around, we zero in on which insects and critters find zoos most appealing and why, and how to control these unwanted guests without harming the animal residents.

If you would like to see a topic covered in a future issue or you are interested in participating in our Expert Q+A, I’d love to hear from you!

CLARE TATTERSALL claret@mediaedge.ca

Editor Clare Tattersall claret@mediaedge.ca

Digital Editor Rebecca Melnyk rebeccam@mediaedge.ca

Publisher Liam Kearney liamk@mediaedge.ca

Senior Designer

Annette Carlucci

Production Manager Maria Siassina marias@mediaedge.ca Sales Sean Foley seanf@mediaedge.ca

Stephanie Philbin stephaniep@mediaedge.ca

Contributing Writers

Ron Ebeyer Jeff Feswick Andrew Howells Bennett Jordan John Kalimeris Robert Lis Mehdi Pahlavan Alice Sinia Steve Tschanz

Circulation Aashish Sharma

circulation@mediaedge.ca

Facility Cleaning & Maintenance is published six times a year by:

5255 Yonge St., Suite 1000 Toronto, Ontario M2N 6P4

President

Kevin Brown kevinb@mediaedge.ca

Senior Vice-President

Robert Thompson robertt@mediaedge.ca

Director, Sales & Strategy

Eric Harbottle

erich@mediaedge.ca Copyright 2017 Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40063056 ISSN 1712-140X Circulation ext. 234 Subscription Rates: Canada: 1 year, $50*, 2 years, $80*, US $75 International $100, Single Copy Sales: Canada: $12* * Plus applicable taxes Requests for permission to reprint any portion of this magazine should be sent to the Editor, Clare Tattersall FORMERLY KNOWN AS

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THE LIFE AQUATIC An operator’s guide to keeping the pool open all summer long

by Mehdi Pahlavan

S

wimming is a great way to stay active and keep cool in summer. As the season progresses and temperatures soar, pools in multi-residential buildings, hotels, community centres and other public spaces are a hotbed of activity.

Those responsible for running public pools, especially outdoor aquatic facilities, must prep them prior to the start of the season and maintain them throughout to ensure the health and safety of patrons all summer long.

Sounds easy enough but the proper steps must be taken in accordance with provincial public health regulations or pool season could be a washout for swimmers.

READY, SET, GET WET

In preparation of opening day, the first course of action is to fill the pool operator role, if it hasn’t been done already. The operator is a person or company that is responsible for ensuring the pool and its equipment are maintained in a safe and sanitary manner at all times. This necessitates that the operator be on-site daily and ideally trained by a recognizable and reputable organization in pool operation and water maintenance, filtration systems, water chemistry and all relevant safety and

emergency procedures. While not an official requirement, proper training is essential to protect pool patrons.

One of the many responsibilities of the operator is to notify the municipality’s public health department of its intention to open the pool. Each region has a specific form that must be filled out in writing and submitted at least 30 to 45 days before opening. Upon submission, an inspector will review past pool records for any infractions to provincial public health regulations.

At this time, the health department will determine whether the operator can open the pool. If there are no violations, the operator will very likely receive the green light. However, if there have been infractions, there is a good chance the health department will decline the submission unless a pre-opening inspection is conducted and passed.

Once opening is approved, the operator must decide where to drain pool water leftover from the previous season. Stringent local bylaws dictate that pool water be disposed in the sanitary sewer system, not a storm drain, because it contains chemicals such as chlorine and/or salt that may be harmful to the environment once deposited into local bodies of water.

SWIMMING POOL ESSENTIALS

In Ontario, Class B public pool filtration systems must turn over the water at least three times a day. This rids the water of micron-size debris and other contaminants, including microbes. In order to determine the turnover rate (the time it takes in hours to move the entire volume of pool water through the filtration system), a flow meter 6 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

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must be installed on the circulation system.

The flow meter will give the speed of water running through the pipes in gallons per minute. An 80,000-gallon pool, for example, needs an output of 167 gallons per minute to circulate the water once every eight hours. A pool flow rate that is unable to achieve proper turnover time can result in cloudy pool water, algae blooms and higher demands. rate is impacted obably thechemical most common and Flow damaging by a number including clogged stake facilities make isofinfactors, the area of cartridge filters, dirty diatomaceous earth ular maintenance, especially in the atorium. (DE) filters and hardened sand in sand filters. These resolved by clean“People wait until issues things can getbecritical ingthem,” or replacing the cartridge ore they fix says Mark Basnight,elements and backwashing thefor filters -year aquatic coordinator the until City the of water runs hula Vista,clear, Calif.observed through the sight glass. The at which must be It is vital frequency to be proactive and backwashing to have a out is determined the design, size eventative carried maintenance plan, ideallyby from filter,established quality of water supy one. Butand eventype withofanthe older, of bathers location of the ility, it’s ply, nevernumber too late to start.and From It’s important check to the manufacular waterpool. testing to systemstochecks instructions backping downturer’s the stainless steel, for all recommended surfaces washneed frequency. d equipment regularly scheduled Operators in Ontario are and also required to ention. Seat-of-the-pants repairs keep records, be signed or initialled by rrections ultimately taketolonger and cost person who ore in boththe money and lostperforms patrons. the tests immediWater is a ately goodthereafter. case in point. When water Daily recordseverything must include ality becomes neglected, fromtotal number of swimmers; water meter readration systems to pool make-up and natatorium ing;toemergency rfaces begins fail. If waterphone is not and testedground fault outletstaff check operly andelectrical regularly(GFI) by trained whobefore opening;evaluate notes and of emergencies, ow how to counteract (ifrescues and breakdowns; eded) the equipment various water elements ofand pH,tests of free available chlorinesolids (FAC), total chlorine/ al alkalinity, total dissolved (TDS), and pH (potentialthen for hydrogen), mperature bromine and calcium hardness, taken manuallyis half aster akintotobethe 10 plagues sureanto hour before swimmers are admitted to peel; the pool and evow: Surfaces will stain; plaster will hours while the pool is s will popery off;two water will thereafter develop algae

/ spotlight /

open. If the operator employs an automatic chemical controller, it can skip the bi-hourly manual readings so long as the controller maintains data records, can present them at a moment notice and shows the disinfectant residual in parts per million (ppm), not millivolts (mV).

Weekly and monthly records are also compulsory. The former must include total alkalinity and cyanuric acid (outdoor pools) readings, while the latter must note outlet cover (main drain) inspections.

Though not mandatory, it’s advisable that pool operators create an equipment maintenance logbook to track and schedule maintenance repairs. The sand in a sand filter, for example, should be changed every two years to help maintain the pool water balance. With time, the roughness of the sand, which makes it a good filter, becomes smooth and less effective.

Regardless of pool location (inside or out) or jurisdiction, operators must ensure all components of the pool’s recirculation system are maintained and in proper working order; all surfaces of the pool deck and walls are maintained in a sanitary condition and free from hazards; the perimeter drain of the pool is kept free of debris; at least 15 per cent of the total pool water volume is capable of being withdrawn from the gutter or skimmer lines daily and

discharged to waste drains; and the pool, deck, change rooms, toilets, showers and connecting corridors are kept clean, ventilated, disinfected and free from slip and trip hazards.

Provisions must also be made for the safe storage and handling of all chemicals that are added to the pool to make the water safe for swimming. Chemicals should be stored in their original containers in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. The storage area should be well-ventilated as vapours may build up inside containers in high temperatures. Nose and throat irritation or more serious respiratory problems may result if inhaled.

If using chemicals that dissolve in water, such as liquid chlorine (sodium hypochlorite) for sanitation or muriatic acid (hydrochloric acid) to lower the pH, it’s important to create a mixing formula and affix it to each solution tank to ensure proper potency. Too much chlorine may cause a swimming pool rash, while a diluted mixture will reduce the chemical’s effectiveness. Chlorine tanks range from 30 to 700 gallons, so the mixing ratio varies from no water to three parts water and seven parts chlorine. Acid solution tanks are typically small, ranging from 15 to 150 gallons, with an 8:2 ratio of water to acid. /

Mehdi Pahlavan is chief operating officer at Superior Pool, Spa & Leisure Ltd. He has been with the company since 1998. Mehdi is a National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Pool/Spa Operator (NSFP CPO) instructor who has held various aquatics safety designations from the Lifesaving Society.

WWW.REMINETWORK.COM / 7

NO TIME TO MONKEY AROUND

Controlling pests in zoos must be priority to protect animals, visitors

by Alice Sinia

8 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

/ spotlight /

C

anada boasts one of the world’s largest zoos, which encompasses 710 acres and is home to more than 5,000 animals. Sharing their habitats is a host of unwanted guests — a problem that plagues all zoos, regardless of size. However, pest management at some zoos proves more challenging than others because of the wider range of exhibits that mirror the natural habitats of the animals, from rainforest to woodland to desert environments. These zoos not only require a comprehensive and effective pest management program to keep nuisance insects and critters under control, but one that is executed by a provider with vast knowledge of the different habitats and each of their corresponding pest pressures.

WHAT’S LURKING AMONG THE ANIMALS

Understanding which pests are attracted to zoos and why is the first step in creating an effective pest management plan.

Zoo pests vary depending on the type of animals and habitats present, but are typically cockroaches, flies, wasps, weevils, grain beetles, rodents and bothersome birds. Although somewhat less common, fleas, ticks, face flies, bird mites, black flies, mosquitoes and biting lice can also cause issues for zoos as they pose a risk to both animals and visitors.

Many pests carry disease-causing pathogens, several of which can be transmitted to animals and humans, alike. Whether they bite or not, pests can irritate animals, inducing stress and restlessness that can adversely affect their behaviour and health. Additionally, structural damage caused by gnawing rodents or bird droppings can be a safety and health hazard.

Pest activity can also contribute to financial losses if there is damage to stored foods, impact on the zoo’s aesthetic or

the public has a negative experience because of critter sightings.

Zoos are attractive to pests because of the ready accessibility of water, food and shelter.

Water is abundant in these environments.

It’s made available for animals to drink, used to keep them, their exhibits and holding areas clean, and is part of aquatic habitats.

While it’s difficult to reduce water availability as it’s crucial for hydration, animal cooling and bathing, care must be taken to remove any unnecessary standing water indoors and out. Interior exhibits pose additional challenges. Moisture and organic matter can build up in cracks and crevices of baseboards and on floors of exhibit areas, wash areas and cleaning rooms. If not properly cleaned or overlooked, these areas provide the perfect breeding ground for small flies and other insects.

The immense amount of food dished out on a daily basis to both animals and visitors is also fuel for pests. Animal feeds such as pellets, biscuits and grains attract rodents and birds, while vegetables, fruits and meats can create a fly frenzy if left sitting out. Stored dry food should be regularly monitored and inspected to make sure it isn’t contaminated by weevils and grain beetles. Visitor dining areas should be wiped down frequently and picnic areas routinely patrolled for discarded garbage. Trash receptacles should have closed lids and ideally be resistant to pest access.

The naturalistic exhibits found in zoos, many of which are controlled tropical environments, provide the perfect harbourage for pests. The heat and humidity create conducive conditions for many insects while the materials used in construction of the various habitats — wood, rock, soil and mulch — are attractive to ground inhabiting pests such as Surinam and Australian cockroaches, crickets and rodents.

BUGGING OUT? IPM IS THE ANSWER

Given the unique challenges presented at zoos, pest control requires a delicate balance of preservation and extermination. To help ensure the safety of animals, a pest management specialist should partner with zookeepers, veterinarians and environmental staff to discuss and evaluate recommended treatment methods.

Whatever plan is decided upon, it should be based on the principles of integrated pest management (IPM), which includes an ongoing cycle of three critical components.

To begin, monitor and perform a pest risk assessment and inspection of the zoo to determine pest pressures, types, seasonality and population dynamics. Based on the findings, develop and implement a preventive plan of action based on sanitation, habitat and structural modifications. A corrective plan of action should be based on non-chemical methods and other least toxic control strategies. The program should then be documented and its effectiveness evaluated periodically.

The first step, monitoring, is not a onetime occurrence but a continuous process.

Regular inspections will identify pests and potential harbourage sites associated with the zoo. Each inspection helps develop the appropriate corrective action with zoo staff.

When developing a program, keep in mind that some inspections can only be performed at certain times to align with operating hours and animal routines. Typically, most work can be done in the early morning hours when exhibits are empty and visitors aren’t present.

Pest management specialists will likely become regulars on-site as the continuous process of surveying insect light traps and protected insect monitors is crucial to identifying pests and determining their level of activity. www.REMInetwork.com / 9

/ spotlight /

Consider using pheromone and lure traps and protected glue board monitors in food storage areas to monitor and help prevent future storage product pests. Other food storage best practices include storing food in sealed containers and using the ‘first-in, first-out’ principle to keep storage or use of older products to a minimum. Additionally, exclusion tactics, such as sealing cracks and using netting, can go a long way in reducing pest pressure points within habitats and building structures.

To help protect the animals during service visits, make sure the pest management specialist sanitizes service tools and equipment between treatments at each exhibit to prevent transferring potentially harmful materials and pathogens from one site to another. If a particular animal is under quarantine, the specialist should use personal protective equipment prior to entry to prevent cross contamination and spreading infections to the animal.

Sanitation routines also play a large role in IPM as they remove pest attractants.

Make sure roles are assigned and have staff document sanitation practices such

as disposal of leftover feeds, cleaning of holding or exhibition areas to eliminate pest-attracting odours, and proper animal waste and trash management.

ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL

Pest management in zoos requires customized and innovative solutions to effectively manage unwanted guests and keep animals safe and comfortable. To protect animals from disease-carrying mosquitoes, for example, consider using specialized devices designed to repel or attract and trap the pesky insect with ultraviolet light and installing fans that create positive airflow to draw mosquitoes into a holding container. If appropriate, the devices can be installed in high-pressure areas to help identify the specific type and level of mosquito activity found at the zoo.

A zoo’s more playful animals can present a particular challenge when dealing with crawling insects, such as ants, and rodents.

Monkeys, for example, are curious by nature and may try to break into or play with bait stations or even pick up the insects. In such cases, avoid using insecticide or rodenticide unless approved by the zoo’s veterinary staff.

If allowed, tamper-resistant baits placed in concealed sites can be used in monkey exhibits, though they should be monitored to ensure they remain out of reach.

Since zoos are sensitive spaces, pest control should not be based on chemical control strategies. Pesticides should only be employed as a last resort. If approved by the zoo’s veterinary staff, only the least toxic and highly targeted formulations should be used and applied per label specifications by a licensed pest management professional. /

Alice Sinia, Ph.D., is the quality assurance manager, regulatory/lab services, for Orkin Canada.

With more than 15 years’ experience, her focus is government regulations that pertain to the pest control industry. Alice can be reached at asinia@orkincanada.com.

CONFERENCE AND TRADE SHOW The Canadian Association of Environmental Management (CAEM) is hosting its Annual Conference and Trade show at Blue Mountain Resort in Collingwood Ontario September 27th, 28th and 29th.

SEPTEMBER 27, 28 & 29, 2017 BLUE MOUNTAIN RESORT • COLLINGWOOD ONTARIO

Our theme this year is “Collaboration” as we are collaborating with many organizations and professionals in one forum.

This is your opportunity to participate and network with over 300 professionals of Environmental Services Management, Infection Prevention, Public Health and Industry Suppliers. Our delegates are professionals from healthcare, school boards and any industry representing environmental cleaning and disinfection.

Visit our trade show which will be represented by a diverse group of vendors with leading technologies and products for infection prevention, environmental cleaning and disinfection.

In addition, we are pleased to be featuring - InfectionControl.tips (www.IC.tips) Top Innovations of the Year: 2017. This is just another example of CAEM’s effort to work in “Collaboration” with other organizations to better serve our members and bring industry partners together.

If you are responsible for environmental cleaning and/or infection prevention this is the conference for you.

More Information on the program including registration can be found at

www.caemconference.org 1 10 CAEM_Half_Page_July_2017.indd / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

2017-07-28 11:10 AM

“ I COULD

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-Mark Levinson Property Manager

Mark manages nine commercial properties and is considering using ESA’s time saving Continuous Safety Services. To learn more about your legal obligations and the benefits of CSS, visit esasafe.com/propertymanagers

SILENCING THE BUZZ

How to keep mosquitoes at bay

by Bennett Jordan

N

o matter where a building resides in the country, mosquitoes are a part of a facility manager’s summer. But unlike other types of flies, these pesky insects are more than just a nuisance. Besides their bothersome buzzing and biting, which can make spending time outside unbearable, mosquitoes are a major public health risk because they can serve as vectors of numerous human diseases.

BEWARE THE BITING BUG

Mosquitoes are best known for the habits of the adult females, which must feed on blood before they can generate eggs. Their desire to produce offspring is so strong that they are willing to risk being swatted. Male mosquitoes, on the other hand, feed solely on nectar and plant juices; they never bite humans or animals.

Regardless of sex, adult mosquitoes are not easy to identify by sight. Most of the dozens of species found across Canada are an indistinguishable assortment of tans, browns and blacks. Size is typically not a diagnostic feature either. In fact, species-level identification is best performed by entomologists and often involves counting hairs or patches of scales, both of which may be lost during the mosquito’s life or post-mortem handling.

There is, however, a physical characteristic that differentiates male from female mosquitoes. Males have plumose or highly brush or feather-like antennae, while females have much more sparse antennae. Still, the easiest way to tell a mosquito’s sex is to see if it will bite.

THE DREAD OF DISEASE

Mosquitoes are, by a factor of thousands, more dangerous than any other group of animals on earth. Canadians have been spared from malaria, yellow fever, dengue fever and other prominent mosquito-borne diseases so these insects have been mostly regarded as a nuisance rather than a serious threat. While there are rare cases of encephalitis spread by 12 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

/ pest control /

mosquitoes, the public health focus locally intensified with the first human case of West Nile virus in 2002.

The explosion of the Zika virus in 2015, combined with its effects on pregnant women and babies, caused a state of panic worldwide and led many people to become extremely fearful of mosquitoes. Zika virus is primarily transmitted by the yellow fever mosquito but the Asian tiger mosquito may also be a competent vector. These mosquitoes are found in North America, though their range is limited to the southwestern, southern, southeastern, mid-Atlantic and lower Midwestern regions of the U.S. A small number of Asian tiger mosquitoes have been collected during surveillance in the Niagara region, but there is no evidence to suggest they are an established species.

The primary concern for Zika virus still comes from travel-related cases. In the last two years, there have been nearly 500 travelrelated Zika cases associated with Canadians, and 5,000 travel-related cases involving U.S. citizens who have voyaged to regions where Zika is prevalent and were diagnosed after returning home.

FEAST OR FAMINE: WATER’S ROLE

Understanding mosquito control requires knowledge of the insect’s development. Mosquitoes have a complete metamorphosis with four life stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult.

If conditions are ideal, the life cycle can be completed in less than two weeks. It’s easy to see how populations can explode when females can lay dozens to hundreds of eggs at a time. The first three life stages require water and only adults resemble what is thought of as a mosquito.

The most effective method of control is to reduce or alter the water that can be used as breeding habitat. The amount and type of water required varies by species. For some, called ‘container-breeders,’ larvae require very little water; less than half an inch is enough to develop normally. Facility manag-

FIGHT THE BITE When working outdoors during summer months, personal protection is the best approach to guard against unwanted mosquito bites. There are mosquito species that are aggressive daytime biters in addition to those that are active at dusk and during the night. Maintenance staff should wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and closed-toe shoes. It’s important to also protect skin by applying an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus. ers should keep an eye out for empty pots, bottles, barrels, bird baths and other vessels that might hold water. If found, turn them over so water can’t collect and support mosquito development. Should containers need to be upright, empty them weekly to disrupt the mosquito life cycle.

There are also species that require lakes, marshes, flood water, seepage areas and other stagnant pools. In general, these breeding sites are harder to regulate and control through habitat modification so other methods may be necessary. Some mosquitoes will lay eggs above the water line or even in dried out water beds.

Eggs will remain dormant until submerged in water, kick-starting their development.

There are two categories of chemical and biological mosquito control: larvicides and adulticides, depending on what stage of development is being targeted. Larvicides prevent mosquitoes from ever reaching adulthood by treating the water in which they develop. The primary advantage is mosquito larvae are confined, often at considerable densities, in one place. This means they can easily be killed with minimal applications of insecticide before they reach adulthood since mosquito larvae and pupae must remain at

or near the water’s surface to breathe. The greatest disadvantage is that there are restrictions placed on treating bodies of water.

There are several types of mosquito larvicides, each of which kills larvae in different ways. One type of larvicide uses a naturally-occurring soil bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis (often abbreviated Bt), which is formulated into liquids, briquettes, powders, pellets or granules. Once applied to water, the bacterium is ingested by the mosquito larvae and proteins are converted to toxins that destroy their gut. Other types of larvicides include growth regulators that prevent maturation into adulthood and a monomolecular film that prevents respiration at the water’s surface by larvae.

Killing adult mosquitoes presents a greater challenge because they can spread out over much greater distances and move three-dimensionally. When they aren’t active, mosquitoes often rest in shaded and protected areas. Localized treatments (those not applied aerially or over a large area) target these spots. Pest management professionals apply insecticides as fogs or mists, typically at very low volumes of insecticide, so ultrafine droplets can reach resting mosquitoes. /

Bennett Jordan, Ph.D., is director of technical support and regulatory compliance at Copesan.

Copesan is an alliance of regional pest management providers united to provide quality pest solutions to commercial national accounts across North America.

www.REMInetwork.com / 13

/ pest control /

WHAT LIES BENEATH Five common insects that can wreak havoc on building lawns

by Steve Tschanz

A

well-manicured lawn is a good indicator of how well a property is maintained. If it is full of weeds, large dead areas or has not been mowed in a month, this gives the impression of potential problems within a building.

Proper cutting, watering, fertilizing, aerating and weeding play an important role in keeping a lawn looking healthy.

However, all may be for naught if the turf is infested with insects.

While many insects live in a lawn, some cause more damage than others. In Canada, the five most common are white grubs, leatherjackets, sod webworms, billbugs and chinch bugs.

1 White grubs are the larval stage of the Japanese beetle, European chafer and June beetle. The larval stage of the first two beetles are a problem in spring and fall of each year. The June beetle has a three-year life cycle. The small, plump white larvae are a problem in fall of the first year, all of the second year and in spring of the third.

In general, white grubs live below the soil surface where they voraciously feed on grass roots. They are C-shaped, have a brown head and three large pairs of legs. The grubs pupate in spring and then emerge from the soil as beetles in late June, 14 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

early July. The beetles themselves do not feed on the lawn but will lay eggs on the grass, hatching three to four weeks after emergence. The cycle then begins again.

Left undiagnosed, white grubs can devastate a lawn in a short period of time. Once they’ve destroyed the grass roots, the turf will appear unhealthy, weak or possibly yellow in patches, as if the lawn is drying out.

The damaged or dead areas can be easily lifted up as the root system has been eaten away. Other symptoms to watch for include animals like skunks and raccoons digging up the lawn and birds feeding on grubs, leaving pencil-size holes.

A healthy lawn is the best protection against white grubs. Grass that’s in good condition can withstand some level of feeding damage from the larvae and will discourage adult beetles. However, if control measures are required, there are two different strategies, depending on where the building resides in the country.

The first is the use of chemical pesticides, assuming they’re allowable. The second employs nematodes, a type of microscopic roundworm parasite that loves feeding on white grubs.

2 Leatherjackets are the immature stage of the European crane fly, which resembles a

giant (but harmless) mosquito. Leatherjackets, named for their leathery gray-brown skin, eat grass roots like white grubs and are found in the soil. The worm-like larvae feed throughout the fall, after hatching, and spend the winter below the surface of the lawn. By March and April, heavy feeding occurs as larvae reach maturity and continues until about mid-July, at which time they begin to pupate.

Leatherjackets feed during the day at or below the surface of the turf so they often go unnoticed. However, if there is a good rain, they become visible as water-logged soil conditions often drive them on to the pavement.

Damage to lawns first appears as thinning of the turf and brown patches that soon become bare if infestations are heavy. Again, control of leatherjackets is dependent on where the building resides. As with white grubs, strategies include chemical pesticides (where allowable) and nematodes.

3 Sod webworms are the larval stage (caterpillar) of the small white or tan coloured moths often seen on summer evenings. The moths do not harm the lawn; however, the webworms, which are similar in colour to the moths but frequently have rows of dark spots along their back, do by chewing off grass leaves and stems while feeding after they’ve hatched, during summer and into early fall.

The damage done by these caterpillars leaves lawn looking dry. Brown dead patches of grass can be easily pulled away in clumps, revealing masses of a silk-like material that the moth larvae line their tunnels with and green excrement pellets.

The best time to treat sod webworms is when they are very young in June and July, before severe damage occurs. By early fall, they begin to transform into adults.

Nematodes are an effective control measure and contact insecticides are recommended, where allowable.

4 The billbug is becoming an increasingly problematic insect as it can damage a lawn in both the larval and adult stage. Adult billbugs are blackish grey in colour with a small hard body and distinguishable long snout-like forehead. They survive in the thatch layer during the growing season, causing damage to the lawn by chewing holes in grass blades; however, this is minor compared to the damage caused by the larvae. Larvae are legless with a fat whitish body and brown head. They feed on the grass roots and stems, often cutting them off, which allows the plant to be pulled up easily.

Billbug damage frequently resembles drought symptoms. Large areas of the lawn may appear wilted with a yellowish brown

colour during July and August, but it will not respond to watering. If the problem is ignored, the dead patches will get larger and damaged areas will then fill in with weeds and crabgrass.

The best time to control billbugs is in June and July, when they’re very young and before the lawn has been severely damaged. By early fall, the insect begins to pupate to overwinter.

While in the adult stage, the billbug is extremely difficult to control.

Like the sod webworm, contact insecticides are an effective control measure, when not banned, as are nematodes.

5 The chinch bug is a significant lawn damaging insect in Canada. The black bodied adults overwinter in leaf litter, emerging in late spring to venture into the lawn where they live above the soil. It’s here that the insect lays its eggs, usually starting on sunny sloping hillsides. The eggs hatch in approximately three weeks’ time and the young chinch bugs, called nymphs, begin feeding.

The hairy insect typically produces two generations a year but sometimes there’s a third, so it’s not uncommon to see both young and mature chinch bugs in the grass at the same time. The nymphs have reddish brown bodies while the adults are black and white coloured.

All stages of chinch bug can cause turf damage. The insect sucks the juices out of the grass plant, resulting in yellow patches.

The damage looks quite similar to drought symptoms but of course watering does not remedy the problem. If ignored, the patches will combine into large dead spots and it’s possible the chinch bugs will ruin the lawn in just three weeks.

As with other lawn damaging insects, nematodes can be used to control chinch bugs.

There is also a new contact insecticide that has been approved for use across the country.

The best time to treat a lawn for chinch bugs is when damage first becomes apparent, typically in June. Another application may be needed in August to kill the second generation. /

Steve Tschanz is the technical support manager for Weed Man Canada. Steve has a bachelor of science in horticulture from the University of Guelph. He is currently in his tenth year with Weed Man and has 17 years’ experience working in the golf industry. www.REMInetwork.com / 15

16 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

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KEEPING THE URBAN FOREST GREEN Trees need TLC to survive, thrive

by Robert Lis

T

rees are an underrated natural wonder. Besides providing shelter and shade, they offer environmental, economic and social benefits so it’s important to take care of them.

Maintaining trees as part of any landscape adds value to a property and its community throughout the life of the woody plants.

Properly scheduled maintenance helps to ensure trees mature gracefully, retaining both their beauty and functionality from year to year. Maintenance performed by qualified and experienced professionals can help to extend the life of trees in the harsh urban environment.

Trees in cities and suburbs are subject to challenges that rural trees do not experience, including improper planting, soil compaction, exposure to high levels of pollutants and mechanical injury. Having a certified arborist regularly assess and care for a property’s trees can assist with early identification and mitigation of these common stress factors for urban trees.

In fact, most modern city bylaws require a report by a certified arborist for any

site proposal involving tree removal or potential injury to nearby trees.

A CUT ABOVE

Pruning is the most common tree maintenance procedure. It involves a strategic approach to improving the health, structural integrity and overall appearance of a tree.

There are a variety of pruning techniques that can be performed, based on tree species, location and limb health.

The most common reason for pruning is to address practical issues, such as allowing for structural clearance, reducing shade case on lawns and gardens, and improving flower and fruit production. Pruning can also be used as an early intervention to prevent future tree failures and improve landscape sightlines (known as vista pruning, whereby the crown is reduced or tree thinned).

A certified arborist can identify the tolerance level of individual tree species for utility pruning. As a general rule, pruning should not exceed more than a 15 to 25 per cent reduction of the overall canopy www.REMInetwork.com / 17

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Structural deficiencies such as co-dominant growth (when two or more branches emerge from the same junction or tree fork) can be avoided by pruning a juvenile tree before the problem becomes defining for it. of any tree. More aggressive pruning may be required when factors such as sightlines or shade levels are a consideration. In these cases, gradual pruning can help to limit the overall stress experienced by the tree and reduce the risk of tree failure. Not only is aggressive pruning stressful for a tree but it can actually result in an increase in the occurrence of unwanted growth, rather than limiting it. Over pruning, including practices such as tree topping (where whole tops of trees or large upper main branches are removed, leaving stubs), can create hazardous trees and increase the likelihood of future failures. In the rare instances where heavy reductions or topping is required, there needs to be a commitment to increased maintenance in the future.

Pruning for the improved health and structure of a tree can be best achieved through regular scheduled maintenance.

Frequent, gradual pruning is easier on the tree than pruning a large volume at sporadic intervals. A certified arborist can determine the best time of year to perform pruning, based on the tree species and extent of crown cleaning required. Healthy branch structures have optimal spacing to allow for the most advantageous future growth and strong resilience to wind and snow loads.

Removing dead wood is an essential part of pruning and may be required annually, depending on the species and condition of the tree. Removing dead wood improves airflow and light penetration, as well as reduces the risk of pest and fungal infections.

Once the dead wood has been expunged, additional branches are then removed in order to optimize the future structure of the tree. This selective pruning takes the most experience since it is based on growth rates and patterns of individual species, as well 18 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

as the unique site conditions affecting tree growth. For juvenile trees, pruning is focused on improving health and removing growth that will eventually become undesirable in the given landscape. Mature trees are pruned to remove structural elements, such as diseased branches, rubbing branches and non-advantageous new growth.

A certified arborist can also use pruning techniques to train trees to grow away from surrounding structures, as well as lift the tree canopy to allow for the use of riding lawn mowers. While the greatest benefit is seen with regularly scheduled maintenance, even a small amount of pruning, especially in young trees, will promote healthy branch structure. Structural deficiencies such as co-dominant growth (when two or more branches emerge from the same junction or tree fork) can be avoided by pruning a juvenile tree before the problem becomes defining for it.

FROM THE ROOTS UP

If a tree has a good structure and has been pruned regularly but still has an ill appearance, it could indicate there is a problem below the surface. Improper planting practices can lead to girdled roots or ineffective buttress (structural) roots. It is important for the long-term health and stability of any new tree to involve a qualified professional in the tree planting process.

For new plantings and established trees alike, soil compaction (hardening) can be overlooked or an unavoidable challenge.

Soil compaction occurs when soil is continually traversed by pedestrians, bicycles or mechanical traffic, such as lawn mowers or other landscaping vehicles. It’s problematic because water is unable to easily penetrate the soil surface, it limits oxygen supply and hampers the ability of tree roots to grow into surrounding areas. Soil compaction is one of the main reasons modern city bylaws require ‘tree protection zones’ or ‘tree buffer areas’ on construction sites. In more extreme cases, an arborist can use methods to aerate the soil and bring some growth potential back to an area of high traffic.

It is beneficial to apply a five to 10-centimetre area of mulch to the critical root zone of a tree; however, mulch or soil should never be piled up around a tree’s trunk. Doing so can lead to decay around the base of a tree, which can make it susceptible to pests and diseases, and increase the overall stress a tree endures in an urban environment. Mulch is not used to introduce nutrients into the soil; instead, it’s applied to enhance the aesthetics of a landscape, moderate soil temperatures and maintain soil moisture.

If necessary, a controlled-release fertilizer can be applied to improve the mineral or nutrient content of the soil. However, it is always preferable to identify and address issues in the landscape that limit the growth potential of a tree, rather than using fertilizers as an artificial prop.

Having a certified arborist regularly assess trees and landscape conditions can help to promote the health of the roots as well as the trees. An arborist can identify factors that have the potential to cause significant root damage, such as proposed construction or landscaping projects, or even continued root injury from flower planting or lawn cutting. /

Robert Lis is an ISA certified arborist that co-owns and operates The Urban Arborist Inc. with Jason Chhangur. Together, they have more than 20 years’ experience. Established in 2014, the company provides arborist services in the Greater Toronto Area, ranging from planning and development, tree removal, pruning, planting and a variety of plant health care treatments and plans.

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PAINTING PROBLEMS? Q+A: Temperature matters when working outdoors

W

hen it comes to exterior maintenance, one area that is often overlooked is a building’s painted surfaces. At some point in time after initial application, painted surfaces such as window trim, balcony rails and even the facility’s façade itself will need to be restored to maintain the building’s aesthetic appeal and protect it from outdoor weather elements.

Here, Benjamin Moore’s colour and design expert, Sharon Grech, answers three important exterior painting questions to ensure your next project goes smoothly.

When is it too cold to paint outside?

Not long ago, all it took was a slight chill in the air to put a damper on painting productivity, but today’s premium exterior paint products allow for painting in temperatures as low as 4 C. The specific temperature threshold varies by type of paint (latex or alkyd) and also by paint brand, so it is important to read the technical data sheets and/or label information.

High humidity and cooler temperatures will affect drying and re-coat times. On average, exterior latex paint requires at least four hours of dry-time between coats, so 20 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

the temperature should stay relatively constant during this period. Giving more time between re-coats in cooler temperatures is ideal for best performance.

When it’s cooler outside, a paint project should ideally begin in mid-morning, after the sun has had time to warm surfaces up but before it gets too strong.

Direct sunlight can be an issue, causing paint to dry too quickly, which results in lap marks or even blistering.

Before beginning a project, make sure the temperature of the air and the surface to be painted are 4 C or above. If not, painting adhesion can pose a problem.

It’s also important not to paint on a day when the temperature is predicted to drop below the minimum of 4 C within the next 12 hours as this will impact the curing process.

What is the maximum recommended temperature for exterior painting?

When painting outside, the temperature and surface to be painted should not exceed 32 C. Of greater concern, however, is humidity and wind. Painting in highly humid conditions — where relative humidity is greater than 50 per cent — results in longer re-coat times and can impact the curing process. High winds can cause paint to dry too quickly, resulting in poor adhesion and possibly an uneven finish.

What else should facility managers/building service contractors consider before embarking on a painting project?

It’s wise to keep an eye to the weather forecast and refrain from painting when precipitation is predicted — rain can ruin a fresh coat of paint. And don’t forget the wind. A blustery day can cause latex paint to dry too quickly, resulting in inadequate film formation. Moreover, wind can stir up dust and other contaminants that can ruin a paint job.

Regardless of time of year, facility managers and building service contractors should keep the following in mind when selecting a quality exterior paint: durability and overall performance; resistance to mould and mildew; resistance to ultraviolet (UV) radiation; ease of application; availability of colours that resist fading; and environmental friendliness.

As well, having the proper painting tools will help the project go smoothly. Depending on the type of surface, paint may be applied with a nylon/polyester brush, roller or sprayer. Spray guns cover large areas more quickly than brushes or rollers, and are the most efficient way to paint most large exterior surfaces. Brushing takes considerably longer but is ideal for windows and intricate trim work. Rollers are also excellent tools for painting large areas. They can be used for painting walls, stucco, concrete or any other flat surface. /

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WRITING’S ON THE WALL Failure to immediately remove graffiti comes with consequences

by John Kalimeris

G

raffiti is a fact of life for commercial buildings managers in major urban centres. It is almost inevitable that at some point in time every facility manager will come face-toface with an unsolicited tag, whether scribbled, scratched or sprayed illicitly on a wall or other building surface.

This unauthorized ‘art’ is typically the first sign that undesirable people are loitering around a building after normal weekday operating hours and on weekends. What usually follows is garbage, drug paraphernalia and other forms of vandalism and criminal activity.

If left ignored, as has been done in 22 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

many large European cities, the graffiti will only grow. In Berlin, the graffiti capital of Europe, it has become a stain on not just many historic buildings but society. What the German city and other European municipalities failed to foresee was that their overall image would be affected. Graffiti gives the impression that a building isn’t cared for or respected, resulting in lost tenants and/ or customers and a potential devaluation of the property.

TAKING AIM AT UNWANTED TAGS

Immediate removal of unsolicited scrawls is necessary to prevent further tagging and

the problems that come with it. In many municipalities, building owners are required by law to remove the illegal markings within a specified period of time. Failure to do so may result in a fine and/or removal by city workers, with the cost added to the property owner’s tax bill.

While there are various graffiti removal products available in home improvement stores, some of which have proven successful when used on non-porous surfaces, it is best to leave eradication to the professionals. Improper removal can embed graffiti or cause further damage to the property. For instance, power washing glass can break and crack it,

/ exterior care /

and cleaning brick too aggressively may chip and damage the building material, seriously harming the finish and allowing water to seep through. As well, if a ‘tagger’ is aware a property was previously graffitied, it will generally mark the building before defacing a clean one as the tagger knows their ‘art’ won’t be washed away.

The right way to remove graffiti is to make it appear as if it was never on the property in the first place. The first step in the removal process is for the abatement expert to assess the surface to be treated (brick, concrete, glass) and the product to be removed (ink, paint, stickers, posters). Digital photos should be taken at this time so that ‘before’ pictures can be compared with ‘after’ images to confirm the quality of the contractor’s work.

The abatement expert will then select the best product and process to eliminate the graffiti. Often, high heat, low-pressure water washing provides the

The first step in the removal process is for the abatement expert to assess the surface to be treated (brick, concrete, glass) and the product to be removed (ink, paint, stickers, posters). best result for most building surfaces, with the least risk of wearing down the building material and compromising the property’s structural integrity. It is also an environmentally safe tool for graffiti removal. However, each surface is unique so treatment needs to be addressed on a case-by-case basis. For

instance, concrete is one of the strongest building materials so it can be washed with a higher pressure.

Once the scrawls have been successfully removed, the contractor may apply a graffiti-resistant coating to protect the building surface from wearing down and/or to make future cleaning easier. /

John Kalimeris is managing director of Graffiti Buffer. He has been in the graffiti removal business since 2001. John is also certified in CPTED (crime prevention through environmental design), a proactive design philosophy that can help reduce the incidence of crime. He can be reached at 416-234-9222 or john@graffitibuffer.com.

PREVENTING CRIMES

OF OPPORTUNITY While the most important step a facility manager can take to keep graffiti off their property is to remove it in a timely manner, there are several prevention measures that can reduce opportunities for tagging.

These are based off CPTED (crime prevention through environmental design), a multi-disciplinary approach to deterring criminal behaviour through proper design and effective use of the built environment. ‘Designing out crime’ includes (but is not limited to) clearing sightlines and creating natural surveillance through sufficient lighting, low-height walls or ‘see-through’ fencing and appropriate landscaping.

Landscaping should predominantly include low-growing plants and be properly maintained. Tall shrubs and/or overgrown vegetation are welcome hiding places for criminals. An exception to this is the planting of climbing vines or thick bushes along low-height walls, which can impede undesirables from passing through.

GT 0132 16 Sanitation Canada July 2017 R1.indd 1

www.REMInetwork.com / 23 2017-07-21 11:44 AM

BRINGING OLD BUILDINGS BACK TO LIFE Signs stone, brick exterior needs to be repaired

by Jeff Feswick

24 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

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T

he time-tested materials of brick and stone are known for their strength and durability, but they age in much the same way people do — they settle, expand, bloat, crumble and crack under excessive pressure, and are susceptible to the vagaries of the weather, environment and pollution. Consequently, buildings composed largely of these materials require both careful and attentive maintenance to achieve longevity. This is the goal of historic restoration — to increase the lifespan of a property that has survived the test of time.

Restoration covers a wide scope of work — from reinvigorating a historic office building that’s fallen into disrepair to reconstructing a unique architectural feature of a distinctive urban landmark — and is, to some extent, a cultural imperative. Taking care of historic and/or aged properties preserves architectural heritage. This is what makes it an act of conservation, much like saving a wetland from urban development.

Architectural restoration also makes practical sense. It cuts down on waste and needless construction. Investing in the health, structural soundness and aesthetic appearance of an existing structure increases its value, too.

A restoration project can be a big job or a modest one. It may be as simple as repointing (replacing old, cracking mortar) a section of brick or stonework, or be as involved as shoring up a sagging foundation. While it is difficult to anticipate the scope of future work, careful attention and consistent maintenance can go a long way to preventing a major job. With that in mind, there are five telltale signs that a building’s exterior needs some TLC. SIGN 1: LOOSE MATERIALS

Brick or stonework that appears loose is a sign the mortar — the bonding agent between brick and/or stone — has degraded and needs repair. Mortar naturally breaks down over time and for a variety of reasons, from extreme weather to over-salting in winter and poor repair work.

Repairing the affected area not only restores the building’s exterior aesthetic but goes a long way toward preventing further damage and degradation. In

most cases, the repair is relatively simple (assuming it is not a load-bearing wall) and requires chipping out the old mortar and replacing it with the appropriate historic blend. Using a new or incompatible mortar can seriously damage older brickwork, not to mention create an unsightly discrepancy between old and new.

structure itself, such as foundation damage, resulting in more involved repairs.

SIGN 4: VISIBLE STAINING

Brickwork can shear or split under the stress of a structure settling. It can also flake or crumble (known as spalling) as the result of too many frost-thaw cycles.

Because brick and stone are porous, they absorb moisture over time and eventually blowout. Once they do, the brick/stone units become structurally weak and are vulnerable to harbouring damaging moisture, or even insect or vermin infestation.

The method of repair for damaged brick depends on the cause of deterioration. It may involve repointing the joints of the brickwork or replacing entire sections of damaged brick. Again, knowledge of traditional building materials and mortar composition is essential to the success of the repair.

A stained or soiled exterior may be the result of a variety of factors, not the least of which is pollution or a chemical reaction within the building materials themselves. Brickwork that displays a whitish film similar in appearance to chalk is often a relatively minor problem, caused by salts leaching out of the building materials and depositing on their surface. If there is a chalky buildup, however, sections of brick or stone may be damp. If left untreated, moisture may eventually penetrate the building shell, resulting in interior water damage.

With time, some stains will improve in appearance while others will need to be cleaned to prevent eventual spalling, among other issues. There is no one cleaning process for a soiled or stained exterior but rather a number of methods to consider, depending on the circumstances and the degree of soiling and/ or staining. In some instances, a sealer or coating is applied to protect against future staining.

SIGN 3: CRACKS

SIGN 5: DAMP SPOTS

Cracks in stone or brickwork make walls vulnerable to moisture and pollutants, which can increase damage over time.

There is, however, a difference between minor and major cracks.

Minor cracks may be the result of expansion, a natural process associated with weather. These can be fixed by, for example, scraping out the old material, sealing the crack and then repointing the mortar.

A network of interconnected hairline cracks on cast stone, known as crazing, is also relatively minor. In this case, the stone may become discoloured and weakened. Consolidation, injection or unit replacement is generally required to combat crazing.

Deep cracks, on the other hand, may indicate a greater problem within the

Patches of brick or stone that appear consistently wet or damp, and don’t dry out after a rainfall, ought to be repaired sooner rather than later. They hold moisture and make the exterior vulnerable to frost, among other things, which may lead to greater damage and/or complications. For example, penetrating damp may weaken structural timber.

Older properties are vulnerable to rising damp for a number of reasons, including damaged or insufficient damp-proofing or leaking gutters. Solutions to the problem vary but should include determining the cause of the moisture. Once the source is revealed, repair methods typically involve removing the affected brick, stone and timber, and replacing or bolstering a damp-proof membrane. /

SIGN 2: DAMAGED OR MISSING BRICK

Jeff Feswick is president of Historia Building Restoration Inc., an award-winning restoration company serving the Toronto-to-Hamilton corridor. He has specialized in historic and commercial building restoration and renovations for more than 25 years.

www.REMInetwork.com / 25

FURNITURE REHAB Giving ‘well-loved’ pieces new life

by Andrew Howells

F

urniture sets the scene and creates a strong visual impression, so when it begins to show signs of wear and tear it can negatively impact a facility’s image. But this doesn’t mean a building is destined for a showroom full of new furnishings. There’s always the option of furniture repair and restoration.

RESCUE AND RENEWAL

Furniture represents a substantial investment.

Restoration can preserve and protect that investment, giving facility managers many more years of service. As well, it’s often a fraction of the cost of buying new and saves the trouble of replacement.

Restoration can create a new look and feel. Small changes can be made, such as reupholstering lobby chairs or refinishing a conference table. Restoration also allows facility managers to give damaged furniture a new lease on life. For example, a table that has lost a leg can find new purpose as a console in an entryway or hallway.

Furniture restoration reduces impact on the environment. A large amount of energy and natural resources is expended in manufacturing, packaging and shipping new furniture.

REPAIR AWARE

Reupholstering is a good option for fabric furniture that’s looking worn or where seat and back cushions are losing their support.

It often involves stripping the piece down to the frame and replacing all the fabric, springs, foam and webbing.

There are times, however, when an entire piece may not need to be reupholstered.

26 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

/ restoration /

Take, for example, leather and vinyl chairs and sofas. The headrest and arms of these furnishings are prone to fading. In such cases, it’s best to treat the problem area only.

This involves cleaning, sanding to a smooth finish, airbrushing to match the rest of the piece and then sealing to bring the faded area back to its original state.

If upholstery damage is minimal and relatively unnoticeable, such as a torn seam, then blind stitching is the preferred repair method. Blind stitching requires the use of a curved needle, which makes sewing on a flat surface like a chair cushion relatively easy. The thread should be heavy and ideally match the colour of the fabric; however, if done properly, the colour doesn’t matter because it won’t be seen.

Furniture with scratches and gouges can be refinished. This involves removing the paint or varnish to re-expose the wood grain and then making minor repairs. For scratches, a water-based dye may be wiped over the affected areas to hide imperfections. More severe damage, such as gouges, may require the use of melt sticks or wood epoxy. These fillers can be sanded and stained so they

blend right in. However, they work best if the furniture piece is in good condition overall.

Water-damaged furniture can also be refinished, though the restoration method depends on the type of furniture and the severity of the damage. Wood furniture water damage can range from small spots and white or light-coloured rings to dark stains and marks. A common cause of furniture water damage is mopping floors daily. In this case, furniture can be repaired on-site.

The damaged area may be sanded, stained, sealed and then toned with a coloured spray aerosol followed by a clear top coat. White or light-coloured stains on furniture are a good indication the damage is relatively superficial — water hasn’t penetrated through the finished surface. These marks can often be removed with retarder. Sprayed over the affected area, the retarder draws the moisture trapped beneath the finish to the surface.

If the finish has lifted, however, there is no way to repair the furniture on-site. Instead, it has to be taken off-site where the finish is stripped off and replaced.

COST OF EXPERTISE

Furniture represents a sizeable capital investment so when it comes to repair and restoration, it’s best to ask for professional help than to go the DIY route. Professional restoration costs can vary widely as they’re dependent on a variety of factors, including the type of furniture, condition of the piece, time and effort required to repair it, hourly or daily rate, and whether restoration will take place on-site or elsewhere. Nevertheless, while the price may seem hefty upfront, a qualified restoration company has the expertise, techniques, equipment and tools that can help save facility managers time and money in the long-run. /

Andrew Howells is the owner of Furniture Medic of Niagara, which provides furniture repair and restoration services for all types of commercial enterprises. He can be reached at 905-688-9223 or furnmed@vaxxine.com.

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28 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

/ restoration /

GETTING BELOW THE SURFACE A walk through restoring stone floors

by Ron Ebeyer

N

atural stone and terrazzo floors are stunning, sturdy and longlasting so long as they are properly maintained. If not, they literally lose their lustre, becoming dull as a result of heavy foot traffic, spills and possibly incorrect care.

Stone floors can be restored to their original beauty provided the job is done right. While there is always the DIY route, a stone restoration expert has the knowledge and equipment that ensures optimal results. The former may seem cheaper but if done improperly, a botched restoration effort may lead to a full flooring replacement, costing more money in the long-run.

PROJECT REVIVAL

Restoration techniques vary depending on the stone flooring material — marble, granite, limestone, slate, onyx or terrazzo — and the type and degree of damage.

Generally, the process involves grinding, polishing or honing, and sealing.

The grinding process is similar to the concept of sanding wood. Wet diamond bit grinding is used to remove scratches, etches, stains and wear patterns from the stone’s surface. Depending on the extent of the damage, anywhere from three to 10 levels of diamond coarseness are used. The first levels of the grinding

process are coarser in order to remove deep scratches. The level of sanding then becomes finer until a smooth surface texture is acquired.

The floor is then polished or honed, depending on customer preference and the nature of the material. Specialized refinishing compounds used during the polishing/honing process allow for a wide range of lustre levels.

Once the desired finish is achieved, the stone is thoroughly cleaned and a penetrating sealer applied. This prevents staining and prolongs the finish of the surface.

CHIPS, CRACKS AND WAX

There are times when the restoration process may include repairing chips and cracks with matching coloured epoxies and/or the removal of topical waxes.

Natural stone needs to be able to oxygenate or breathe in order to age correctly. Waxing the surface prevents this by clogging the stone’s pores, often resulting in discolouration and an un-

clear plastic-like shine. To remove the wax coating, the stone surface must be buffed with high-density floor strippers and rough nylon pads.

MAINTAIN TO SUSTAIN

It is recommended that facility managers implement a maintenance program following the restoration process to protect their investment, keep the stone f loor looking its best and increase its longevity.

The stone surface should be resealed every three to five years. However, the frequency depends on whether it is cleaned daily, the level of wear and tear, and the type of stone. For instance, limestone and certain marbles should be resealed yearly if they are in high-traffic areas.

Beyond this, it may be necessary to schedule periodic visits by a stone restoration technician who will focus on previous problem areas. The regularity of these visits is dependent on the type of stone and amount of foot traffic. /

Ron Ebeyer is a restoration consultant with The Marble Clinic, which specializes in natural stone restoration and maintenance. The company has been in business for more than 30 years, providing professional services to residential and commercial clients across Ontario.

Ron can be reach at 905-270-2959 or ron@marbleclinic.ca.

www.REMInetwork.com / 29

/ clean matters /

A TALE OF THREE CITIES Urban landscapes have long been a battleground in wars against problematic pests.

Managing disease-carrying insects and critters is no easy feat in cities where these unwanted guests are known to survive and thrive. However, some municipalities are coming out on top thanks in part to innovative pest control measures.

In 2001, the City of Toronto was one of the first test sites for the BugBarrier Tree Band. Developed by Envirometrics Systems Inc. (now Envirometrics Systems USA Inc.), the pest control system was used to prevent the fall cankerworm from damaging tree foliage in High Park, which contains some of the most significant natural areas in the city. The pesticide-free, adhesive tree banding system traps insects on tree trunks. Its dense, flexible fibre barrier is first wrapped around the trunk to fill bark crevices. The adhesive film barrier is then installed over the fibre, with the adhesive facing the tree. This unique design eliminates unsightly debris and keeps insect carcasses out of sight. Since the pilot project, Toronto had not seen a cankerworm infestation until this past spring. The native insect is once again taking over the trees in High Park, as well as other forested areas of the city and beyond. The Ontario Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Rural Affairs is advising wrapping trees with sticky bands to prevent the wingless female fall cankerworm from laying eggs in the tree crowns.

In Western Canada, the City of Leduc has employed a garlic-based spray to keep mosquitoes at bay since the summer of 2014. Made up of 99.3 per cent garlic juice, the pungent elixir is sprayed in the central Alberta city’s parks and playgrounds to mitigate the pesky insect. The stinky solution also helps to repel ticks, fleas and gnats. Other Canadian communities count on garlic to rid them of the itchy insect, too. Huntsville, Ont., has used the stinky spray since 2009, while Taylor, B.C., adopted it last year.

South of the border, New York City is working with biotech company SenesTech to crack down on its massive rodent problem. The Big Apple is one the world’s most rat-infested cities, according to numerous news sources. It’s estimated that more than two million rats call New York home. The municipality’s weapon of choice, ContraPest, targets the reproductive capabilities of both sexes. Using proprietary bait stations, ContraPest is delivered in a highly palatable liquid formulation that promotes sustained consumption by rats. The company claims that users can expect to see a decline in rat litter size as early as two weeks after ingestion. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Environmental Protection Agencyapproved fertility control method is designed, formulated and dispensed to be safe for handlers and non-target species, such as wildlife, livestock and pets, in a biodegradable product. In contrast, the historical approach to managing rodent pest populations — rodenticides — carries a high risk of environmental contamination and the poisoning of non-target animals, pets and children.

30 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / JULY 2017

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TOP TO BOTTOM: BUGBARRIER TREE BAND BY ENVIROMETRICS SYSTEMS INC.; GARLIC KEY INGREDIENT IN MOSQUITO SPRAY; CONTRAPEST TARGETS THE REPRODUCTIVE CAPABILITIES OF RATS.