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Research Report of China’s Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Industry, 2009

Posted on December 6, 2009 at 8:43 pm
www.shcri.com — Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) refers to the installment of PV modules which can supply electric power on surface of external supporting structure. Those PV modules can not only replace part of such traditional structures as roof slab, tile, window, building elevation and rain-proof shelter, but also can be made to own various functions, such as PV/thermal system, combination with illumination and sun shade, etc.

 

At present, BIPV is widely applied on exposed walls, sun-shading shelters, patios, tiles, roofs, sound-proof walls, as well as in fields of private apartments, schools, hospital buildings, airports, platforms of subway stations and large workshops.

 

With the changing fields of PV power generation, China has made great progress in research and development of BIPV system. In 2002, 10KW integrated grid system was built in Fengxian, Shanghai, which realized automation. In 2003, an ecological demonstration project was established in Shanghai and the 5KW integrated grid system combined well with construction with international top technologies.

 

Shanghai Solar Energy S&T Co., Ltd (SSEC) also established integrated demonstrative office building with six first-initiated technologies of directly combining solar electrical power generation and construction. Today, the total installed capacity can reach 40KW and energy self-supply can basically realized with integrating geothermal air condition technologies.

 

It is said in the 40th article of “Energy Conservation Law of the People’s Republic of China” which took effect on April 1st, 2008 that Chinese government encourages to adopt energy-saving materials and devices and to apply renewable energy resource system in the energy conservation reform of newly-built constructions and existing constructions. It is also stated in the 61st article that enterprises which use energy-saving technologies and products listed in the law can enjoy favorable policies, such as tax incentives.

 

Although a series of laws and standards have been launched, such as “Renewable Energy Law”, “Civil Building Energy Saving” and “Energy-Saving Design Standard of Various Regions”, high cost (cost of photoelectric curtain wall jumps to over 1,000 USD/m2 today) will be a big barrier for BIPV projects, apart from limited ideas and technologies. Neither enterprises themselves nor government can afford such a high cost in the long run. Therefore, BIPV captures considerably small market now in China and is mainly used in some demonstrative projects which enjoy government subsidies.

 

It is clearly regulated by Ministry of Construction of China that 50 percent of design standards should be applied in newly-built constructions. It is predicted that the area of energy-saving constructions will exceed 2.16 billion m2 from 2006 to 2010, with newly-built area of 1.6 billion m2 and rebuilt area of 560 million m2. At present, area of constructions in China reaches 40 billion m2, over 13 billion m2 of which are to be rebuilt. In order to fulfill this goal, enterprises must adopt such energy-saving technologies and devices as solar illumination, integrated system of solar energy and construction (solar tiles and glass curtain wall), etc. Thus the BIPV market will see a bright prospect in future.

 

Readers can get more information as follows:

- Present State of China’s BIPV Industry

- Main Applications of BIPV in China

- Related Policies for China’s BIPV Industry

- Investment Opportunities of China’s BIPV Industry

- Forecast for Development Trend of China’s BIPV Industry

 

To get more details, please visit http://www.shcri.com/reportdetail.asp?id=314

Source: China Research and Intelligence

Tel: 86-21-5842-6733

Email: report@shcri.com

By: Alice Chen

About the Author:

Based on the database, Interviews and research methods from China Research and Intelligence, CRI analyzes the development and opportunities in this industry clearly.

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Thermal Curtains – an Appealing Window Dressing That Saves Your Money!

Posted on December 5, 2009 at 1:24 pm
One of the quickest and most affordable ways to insulate your home is to dress your windows with thermal or insulated curtains. But… isn’t it boring – Thermal Curtains ? Sounds like something industrial. As for me, when I first time heard about this window dressing, I imagined dull heavy drapes hanged on my windows, transforming the home into an awful place, where I don’t want to live anymore. I was so mistaken! Thermal Curtai ns can be really beautiful, suitable for any home, and there are so many variations of them!

You dress your windows with Thermal Curtains and along with a fine-looking window treatment you get an additional comfort of warmth in cool weather and cooling in hot summer days. And all this without additional money, spending on air conditioning!

Many people think that insulated curtains only keep the warmth in the room. If you also think so, you will be surprised. Thermal Curtains have many others advantages: they provide a nice coolness in the room in hot weather, they can reduce noise that comes outside, and in addition, many of them have blackout feature, which is really great for a bedroom, a nursery or a home theater.

So what are actually thermal curtains? They are just regular curtains, but with one difference: they are made of fabric that has foam thermal backing. There are various fabrics for such curtains, but most common are cotton, polyester and a blend of them. This blend allows easy cleaning – curtains are machine washable. Thermal drapes come in so many colors and styles that you have a lot of choices and can easily find a thermal window dressing that suits the style and the color scheme of your interior. The additional advantage of them is its really affordable price.

Another type of insulated window treatment is curtains with insulated liner. Such liner provide the same functions as a thermal backing: reduces noise coming outside, keep warmth or coolness depending on weather and also blocks extra sunlight. You can shop for insulated curtains or make them by yourself if you like do-it-yourself projects and know how to sew.

Continue reading Thermal Curtains – an Appealing Window Dressing That Saves Your Money!…

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Benefits Of Thermal Curtains

Posted on December 5, 2009 at 4:25 am
One of the most economic and easy to apply methods of insulating your home is to dress your windows with insulated or Thermal Curtains . This thought probably drums images of dreary looking drapes that will do nothing for the appeal of your home. The term Thermal Curtains sounds dull and responsible causing you to envisage something industrial; these were exactly my own thoughts when I first came across the term Thermal Curtains . It will be a relief to hear that I was mistaken and Thermal Curtains are anything but boring; there are so many variations of beautiful thermal curtains available that something suitable can be found for any home.

When you dress your windows with Thermal Curtains the main advantage is that the curtains, as well as looking good will provide warmth in cool weather and cooling in hot weather. It is commonly known that Thermal Curtains will help keep the warmth inside a room; there are other benefits that Thermal Curtains provide. During hot weather -decoration: none; border-bottom: 1px #0e9500 dashed; color: #0e9500;" target="_blank" >Thermal Curtains provide a nice coolness that can save on air conditioning costs, also they provide noise reduction from outside, as well as this many manufactures provide Thermal Curtains with blackout features which can be very useful for bedrooms and nurseries.

So what makes Thermal Curtains thermal? They are basically the same as ordinary curtains with one major difference; the fabric they are made from has a foam thermal backing. Most Thermal Curtains are made from cotton or polyester or a blend of the two, these fabrics give the curtains easy cleaning qualities with most of them being machine washable. One of the biggest advantages of Thermal Curtains is the price and they are in close competition with ordinary curtains and with the wide ranges of colours and styles available in ready made curtains and curtains made to order, why wouldn’t you opt for a thermal pair.

Another type of insulated window dressing on the market is curtains with insulated liners, these curtains offer the same benefits as the foam backed versions, they help retain heat in cool weather, provide coolness in hot weather, reduces the effects of outside noise as well as blocking out extra sunlight. Curtains with insulated liners can be bought readymade or made to order, it is also possible to attached a thermal lining yourself if you are DIY minded and confident in your sewing ability.

It should be remembered that both insulated drapes and Thermal Curtains are heavy and thick and can be difficult to hang, you may require a fitting service which many curtain retailers provide. It is quite possible to attach a thermal liner to existing curtains or hung completely separately to the curtain. Another benefit of lined curtains is that the lining can help prevent fading caused to material when hung in direct sunlight for long periods of time. A separate liner also acts as a barrier and prevents dust and dirt from the window dirtying the curtain fabric. A separate liner will also enable the separate curtains to hang more attractively due to the reduced thickness and you will be able to clean the liner separately when required without having completely bare windows.

By: Jenny Austin

About the Author:

Jenny Austin is an expert in Pub Furniture, and Floor Sanding for further information on how to choose your Ready made Curtains please visit dhfp.com

http://termostore.com

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Curtains Buying Guide

Posted on December 4, 2009 at 6:38 am
Index

• How to Measure for Curtains

• Different Heading Types and How to Hang Them

• Types of Lining

• Voiles

• Tracks & Poles

• Curtain Care

• Accessories

How to Measure for Curtains

• Curtains are sold in pairs. The size given refers to each individual curtain so if you buy a pair of curtains measuring 117 x 137cm (46 x 54″) you are buying two curtains and each one will measure 117 x 137cm (46 x 54″)

• The size of the curtain allows for them to have a gathered look when they are closed

• Curtains are always measured width first and then length

Measuring Width

• First decide if you want a track or a pole

• It’s best to use a metal tape measure as it will be more accurate

• Your track or pole should be placed approximately 15cm (6″) above your window top and should be wider than your window by approximately 15-20cm (6-8″)

• Measure the width of your track or pole excluding the finials (decorative endings on poles). Do not measure the window

• Add an extra 2.5cm (1″) to your track/pole measurement. This will allow for your curtains to overlap in the middle when they are closed so as not to let in any light or draught

Measuring Length

• First decide where you would like your curtains to finish; just below your window sill or to the floor

• We recommend that sill length curtains finish 15cm (6″) below the window sill. Floor length curtains should finish 1.5cm (1/2″) above the floor

• Tape Top Curtains – For this style of curtain you should measure length from the eye of the curtain hook on your track or pole

• Tab Top & Eyelet Curtains – For this style of curtain you should measure length from the pole

• Radiators – If you have a radiator below the window your curtains should finish 3cm (1 1/2″) above it. This will prevent heat escaping behind your curtains and allow it to heat your room

Different Heading Types and How to Hang Them

• ‘Heading’ is used to describe how the top of your curtains are attached to the track or pole

• There are three different types, each one giving your curtains a different look and finish

Tape Top

• ‘Tape’ is the name for the band of fabric with string threaded through which is attached to the inside top edge of each curtain

• Hooks are looped through the tape to attach the curtain to the track or pole

• The tape on all our ready made curtains is 7.5cm (3″)

• The tape will have either 2 or 3 rows of strings running through it. Please note that if you place your hooks on the tape at the highest position your track or pole will show over the top of the curtains. If you choose the lowest position it will be hidden. More instructions are given below on how to use hooks

How to Hang

Tracks – Tape top curtains need to be gathered before they can be hung up. If using a track it is usually recommended that you put the hooks into the bottom row of strings so the curtain top covers the track

Step 1 – On the tape top there will be between 1 and 3 strings. First tie the strings together at the outside edge of each curtain

Step 2 – Pull the curtains along the string to gather them up. The curtains should be gathered to just over half the window width, this will allow them to overlap when closed. Please note that once you have gathered curtains they cannot be returned so make sure you are happy with the size and colour before you start

Step 3 – Once your curtains are gathered to the right width tie off the strings at the inside edge. Do not tie too tightly as it is common to loosen these off after a curtain has been washed. You can, if you wish, trim the strings but again do not trim them too short. The string ends can then be tucked neatly into the tape so as not to be seen

Step 4 – Now hooks should be placed at each end of each curtain and then at intervals of approximately 10cm (4″)

Step 5 – You can now thread the hooks through the track glides on your track making sure you place a hook through the last track glide which acts as an end cap anchoring the curtains in place

Poles

If using a pole it is usually recommended that you put the hooks into the top row of strings in your tape so the pole shows above your curtain. Hooks should be placed at each end of each curtain and then at intervals of approximately 10cm (4″)

Step 1 – On the tape top there will be between 1 and 3 strings. First tie the strings together at the outside edge of each curtain

Step 2 – Pull the curtains along the string to gather them up. The curtains should be gathered to just over half the window width. This will allow the curtains to overlap when closed. Please note that once you have gathered curtains they cannot be returned so make sure you are happy with the size and colour before you start

Step 3 – Once your curtains are gathered to the right width tie off the strings at the inside end. Do not tie too tightly as it is common to loosen these off after a curtain has been washed. You can, if you wish, trim the stings but again do not trim them too short. The string ends can then be tucked neatly into the tape so as not to be seen

Step 4 – Now hooks should be placed at each end of each curtain and then at intervals of approximately 10cm (4″)

Step 5 – You can now thread the hooks through the loops at the bottom of your curtain rings

Step 6 – Thread the curtain rings onto the pole but make sure that the last ring is secured on the outside of the pole behind where it is attached to the wall as this will anchor the curtains and stop them from moving when you close them

Tab Top

• These can only be used with poles as the tabs simply loop over the pole allowing the curtain to hang

• They are excellent if you want to make a feature of your pole

Eyelet Top

• These can only be used with poles

• They make a great decorative feature in any room

Types of Lining

Curtains come both lined and unlined to cater for various different uses and effects. Here are the benefits of each explained:

Lined Curtains

1. Help keep out the cold

2. Help keep out draughts

3. Help keep out the light

4. Prevent the curtain fabric from fading

5. Give the curtain weight to help it hang better

Unlined Curtains

1. Cooler in Summer

2. Easier to care for

3. Give a lighter feel to your room

You can also buy the following specialised linings:

• Blackout readymade linings keep out daylight and are ideal for children’s bedrooms. They also keep in the heat

• Polycotton readymade linings keep the heat in and are easy to wash and care for

• Thermal linings are specially coated to provide maximum insulation and they are machine washable

Voiles

Voile panels allow in the light but block the view into your room and provide a modern and more attractive alternative to net curtains

Tracks & Poles

You can buy a variety of tracks and poles to suit every style of room.

Curtain Care

• We recommend that all curtains are professionally cleaned according to their individual care instructions; these can be found on packaging or on the sewn in labels

• Any creases that occur from the curtain being packed should fall out after hanging in a warm room

• Apart from velvet, most curtains may be ironed with a warm dry iron on the reverse side, make sure you avoid the hem at the bottom and on the sides

• Velvet is subject to flattening but should regain volume once hung. Brush upwards to take all pile the same way. Never iron or machine wash velvet curtains; always dry clean

Accessories

• Most curtains are available with tie backs to match, often sold separately

• Tie backs should be cared for using the same care instructions as your curtains

By: Louise Barlow

About the Author:

http://www.termostore.com/thermal-curtains/categories/17/thermal-underwear/

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Keep Your House Warm This Winter!

Posted on December 2, 2009 at 1:43 pm
If you are like me you must hate those freezing days and sub zero nights and not being able to escape it due to the homes we live in seeming to be made of paper. Freezing under 20 blankets with an electric heater that uses thousands of dollars of electricity every minute is not the way it should be.

Luckily, there are simple measures that can be made to improve the comfort level of your home in winter and make it that much warmer you would be tempted to open the windows on a -1 degree day.

It all comes down to looking at where your home looses most of its heat from and how to improve on efficiency when it comes to heating appliances. Retrofitting and improving insulation are an obvious step and can really benefit the comfort level of your home.

Insulation

Insulation is a key factor when it comes to temperature control within buildings and should be utilized in all ceilings, walls and raised floors to minimize heat loss. It can be quite daunting choosing a good brand of insulation that offers excellent thermal qualities as well as being good for you and the environment. Always look for insulation that is made from either a cellulose base or glass wool batts as the technology these days is very advanced for these two kinds of insulation mediums. Also, look at foil sheets/batts that actually reflect heat (also works really well in the warmer months). Don’t go for cheap fiberglass or any other insulations mediums that contain high levels of formaldehyde (a very toxic compound that breaks down into your breathing space).

Natural Sunlight

Sunlight through your windows in winter can really increase the temperature of your home well. Cut back any plants or foliage that may be obstructing the sunlight on all your north facing windows. However, make sure that your east and west facing windows can be exposed during winter but covered during summer as if these windows are left completely exposed you home will do the reverse on you as it does in winter.

Reduce Heat Loss (when using heaters)

To reduce heat loss when trying to warm your home from the inside there are several ways to significantly reduce this.

1. seal all gaps in floors, ceiling and walls

2. close all gaps around doors and windows

3. purchase thick, heavy curtains and closed pelmets for the interior windows

4. add automatic closers to external doors to reduce the risk of doors being left open

5. fit vents that automatically open and close on chimneys and exhaust fans

Home Heaters

Always check the efficiency of any heater you purchase and make sure your existing heater is serviced regularly. There are many different technologies these days used for heating homes from solar powered venting systems, energy efficient panel heaters, fuel efficient gas heaters and much more. You can also look at the new inverter technology reverse cycle ducted air conditioning, meant to be very energy efficient. Check with your local energy organization to find out what heaters are best suited for your home and space requirements.

Prevailing Winds

Check to see where the prevailing winds come from in your area to set up structures or systems to deflect these cold winds.

Separate Rooms

Isolate the larger rooms you wish to keep warm by setting up curtains or installing doors. This will help to reduce running costs of your heater and will maintain a comfortable temperature in the room you are using.

Reducing heat loss, insulation, retrofitting and installing energy efficient heaters are the best ways in which to keep your home warmer this winter. Each house is individual and has its own set of local environmental rules. Look to consult your local sustainable building consultant by visiting www.onlife.com.au

By: Rob Barton

About the Author:

James Anderson, leading environmental scientist now brings you easy adaptations to keeping your house warm in winter. For further information about this articel and is contents visit Onlife Sustainable Living

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Make your Own Curtains?

Posted on August 10, 2009 at 1:05 pm
When you’re looking through those house interior magazines and admiring the beautiful window dressings do you find yourself thinking ‘wouldn’t it be great if I could have something like that at my windows’.

Then you remind yourself not to be silly, they are way too expensive.

But have you ever considered that maybe you could make your own?

Making your own curtains, or drapes, as they’re sometimes called can seem like a very daunting prospect, but with practice you really can do it.

With a little patience stitching straight lines on a sewing machine, or handstitching, can become second nature to anyone.

And it’s not just plain curtains, you can create lined, interlined, thermal or insulated, they are all within the reach of the beginner.

Other accessories include tiebacks, curtain headings and valances of differing styles such as pencil pleat, goblet pleat and pinch pleat.

Now that you’re thinking that it might just be possible what do you need to make it happen?

The first thing is somewhere to make them, a spare room is ideal, or perhaps a converted garage or basement.

You can erect a simple table and leave it up (you’re bound to have friends ask you to make theirs!), and the lighter and airier the room the better.

If it’s on the ground floor you won’t have to lug great rolls of fabric up or down the stairs. It needs to be at least 8ft x 16ft, or maybe a little less in length if you have somewhere to tuck your sewing machine.

Also make sure it has decent lighting, I use a strip light as bright as daylight.

The biggest piece of equipment you’ll need is a suitable table and a sewing machine.

My table is 8ft x 4ft, the biggest sheet of wood available, and even then it could be bigger, perhaps an extra couple of feet both ways, this is easily achieved by having a couple of drop-down hinged extensions.

Another option if you don’t have a spare room is to get by with a collapsible table which you could put up as required.

One of the easiest designs I’ve seen is a flat board and a couple of builder’s trestles to rest it on, but this isn’t really ideal.

The dining room table is probably the worst choice, although it’s big and flat you can’t stick pins into it and it certainly isn’t big enough to measure your fabric on.

If you have no choice measure your fabric out on the floor, you can even make your curtains on the floor but oh, your poor back and knees!

Your table needs to be covered in curtain interlining and topped off with curtain lining, this gives a firm but soft surface.

I have two sewing machines, one small commercial machine which is perfectly capable of handling most fabrics but will struggle with thicker fabrics, and an industrial machine.

An industrial machine can be bought pre-owned if necessary, they really are built to last.

Other smaller items are a steam iron, cottons, needles and glass-headed pins and a tape and ruler. A weight, or clamps, are also useful.

If you have any experience with fabrics, either mending your spouse’s clothing or perhaps even making clothing, then it’s quite easy to build on that experience.

A good source of information can be found in books or the internet, some resources, of course, go into more detail than others, more help on a personal level can be found on the internet.

If you’ve never sat behind a sewing machine though don’t worry, curtains are straight lines after all!

A certain amount of dexterity can be useful as there is some hand-stitching involved in the better quality curtains.

If you don’t have a lot of experience with a sewing machine then it’s a good idea to practice runs on a piece of fabric which you’ve drawn straight lines on. This will help you to gain experience as well as confidence.

Probably your best skill is going to be patience and the ability to follow instructions. With these qualities beautiful curtain and drapery creations can easily be within your grasp.

See you in the sewing room.

By: Sally Harvey

About the Author:

Sally Harvey has been making curtains and soft furnishings since 1978. She’s worked in commercial workrooms and latterly as an out-worker working from home. A ‘Getting Started’ ebook is available for download at http://www.curtainsecrets.com

http://www.termostore.com/thermal-curtains/categories/14/thermos-flasks/

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Curtains Buying Guide

Posted on August 6, 2009 at 9:16 am
Index

? How to Measure for Curtains

? Different Heading Types and How to Hang Them

? Types of Lining

? Voiles

? Tracks & Poles

? Curtain Care

? Accessories

How to Measure for Curtains

? Curtains are sold in pairs. The size given refers to each individual curtain so if you buy a pair of curtains measuring 117 x 137cm (46 x 54″) you are buying two curtains and each one will measure 117 x 137cm (46 x 54″)

? The size of the curtain allows for them to have a gathered look when they are closed

? Curtains are always measured width first and then length

Measuring Width

? First decide if you want a track or a pole

? It’s best to use a metal tape measure as it will be more accurate

? Your track or pole should be placed approximately 15cm (6″) above your window top and should be wider than your window by approximately 15-20cm (6-8″)

? Measure the width of your track or pole excluding the finials (decorative endings on poles). Do not measure the window

? Add an extra 2.5cm (1″) to your track/pole measurement. This will allow for your curtains to overlap in the middle when they are closed so as not to let in any light or draught

Measuring Length

? First decide where you would like your curtains to finish; just below your window sill or to the floor

? We recommend that sill length curtains finish 15cm (6″) below the window sill. Floor length curtains should finish 1.5cm (1/2″) above the floor

? Tape Top Curtains – For this style of curtain you should measure length from the eye of the curtain hook on your track or pole

? Tab Top & Eyelet Curtains – For this style of curtain you should measure length from the pole

? Radiators – If you have a radiator below the window your curtains should finish 3cm (1 1/2″) above it. This will prevent heat escaping behind your curtains and allow it to heat your room

Different Heading Types and How to Hang Them

? ‘Heading’ is used to describe how the top of your curtains are attached to the track or pole

? There are three different types, each one giving your curtains a different look and finish

Tape Top

? ‘Tape’ is the name for the band of fabric with string threaded through which is attached to the inside top edge of each curtain

? Hooks are looped through the tape to attach the curtain to the track or pole

? The tape on all our ready made curtains is 7.5cm (3″)

? The tape will have either 2 or 3 rows of strings running through it. Please note that if you place your hooks on the tape at the highest position your track or pole will show over the top of the curtains. If you choose the lowest position it will be hidden. More instructions are given below on how to use hooks

How to Hang

Tracks – Tape top curtains need to be gathered before they can be hung up. If using a track it is usually recommended that you put the hooks into the bottom row of strings so the curtain top covers the track

Step 1 – On the tape top there will be between 1 and 3 strings. First tie the strings together at the outside edge of each curtain

Step 2 – Pull the curtains along the string to gather them up. The curtains should be gathered to just over half the window width, this will allow them to overlap when closed. Please note that once you have gathered curtains they cannot be returned so make sure you are happy with the size and colour before you start

Step 3 – Once your curtains are gathered to the right width tie off the strings at the inside edge. Do not tie too tightly as it is common to loosen these off after a curtain has been washed. You can, if you wish, trim the strings but again do not trim them too short. The string ends can then be tucked neatly into the tape so as not to be seen

Step 4 – Now hooks should be placed at each end of each curtain and then at intervals of approximately 10cm (4″)

Step 5 – You can now thread the hooks through the track glides on your track making sure you place a hook through the last track glide which acts as an end cap anchoring the curtains in place

Poles

If using a pole it is usually recommended that you put the hooks into the top row of strings in your tape so the pole shows above your curtain. Hooks should be placed at each end of each curtain and then at intervals of approximately 10cm (4″)

Step 1 – On the tape top there will be between 1 and 3 strings. First tie the strings together at the outside edge of each curtain

Step 2 – Pull the curtains along the string to gather them up. The curtains should be gathered to just over half the window width. This will allow the curtains to overlap when closed. Please note that once you have gathered curtains they cannot be returned so make sure you are happy with the size and colour before you start

Step 3 – Once your curtains are gathered to the right width tie off the strings at the inside end. Do not tie too tightly as it is common to loosen these off after a curtain has been washed. You can, if you wish, trim the stings but again do not trim them too short. The string ends can then be tucked neatly into the tape so as not to be seen

Step 4 – Now hooks should be placed at each end of each curtain and then at intervals of approximately 10cm (4″)

Step 5 – You can now thread the hooks through the loops at the bottom of your curtain rings

Step 6 – Thread the curtain rings onto the pole but make sure that the last ring is secured on the outside of the pole behind where it is attached to the wall as this will anchor the curtains and stop them from moving when you close them

Tab Top

? These can only be used with poles as the tabs simply loop over the pole allowing the curtain to hang

? They are excellent if you want to make a feature of your pole

Eyelet Top

? These can only be used with poles

? They make a great decorative feature in any room

Types of Lining

Curtains come both lined and unlined to cater for various different uses and effects. Here are the benefits of each explained:

Lined Curtains

1. Help keep out the cold

2. Help keep out draughts

3. Help keep out the light

4. Prevent the curtain fabric from fading

5. Give the curtain weight to help it hang better

Unlined Curtains

1. Cooler in Summer

2. Easier to care for

3. Give a lighter feel to your room

You can also buy the following specialised linings:

? Blackout readymade linings keep out daylight and are ideal for children’s bedrooms. They also keep in the heat

? Polycotton readymade linings keep the heat in and are easy to wash and care for

? Thermal linings are specially coated to provide maximum insulation and they are machine washable

Voiles

Voile panels allow in the light but block the view into your room and provide a modern and more attractive alternative to net curtains

Tracks & Poles

You can buy a variety of tracks and poles to suit every style of room.

Curtain Care

? We recommend that all curtains are professionally cleaned according to their individual care instructions; these can be found on packaging or on the sewn in labels

? Any creases that occur from the curtain being packed should fall out after hanging in a warm room

? Apart from velvet, most curtains may be ironed with a warm dry iron on the reverse side, make sure you avoid the hem at the bottom and on the sides

? Velvet is subject to flattening but should regain volume once hung. Brush upwards to take all pile the same way. Never iron or machine wash velvet curtains; always dry clean

Accessories

? Most curtains are available with tie backs to match, often sold separately

? Tie backs should be cared for using the same care instructions as your curtains

By: Louise Barlow

About the Author:

http://www.termostore.com/thermal-curtains/categories/17/thermal-underwear/

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A Guide to Decorate Your Kitchen With the Curtains

Posted on August 4, 2009 at 7:31 pm
One of the most popular and best ways to dress a window is by using kitchen curtains. These kitchen curtains come in different styles as well as colors that can suit anyone’s kitchen. You can select from the most basic to the most intricately decorated kitchen curtain. If you want to, you can also use a tier for more privacy. For a lighter almost airy look, go for a lace curtain. If you are not familiar on what window treatment you should choose, then take note of the kitchen curtains’ descriptions below.

Let’s start with panels. A panel is a kitchen curtain that hangs from the top of a window down to the windows sill or even lower. These are sold and can be used individually. You also have the options to hang it with another panel. They come in various fabrics such as crushed, printed, sheer solids, lace, solid fabric and embroidered. These can also be used behind drapes leading to more privacy and an elegant finish.

On the other hand, tiers are ruffled or tailored window treatments that are usually hung in the middle of the windows down to the windows sill. Commonly used with a swag or a valance and is also known as a privacy tier or café. Sets as a window treatment come in pairs made up of left and right panels. These sets are in 2 to 5 pieces that includes a tieback, valance or a panel.

Swag is a 3pc-set window treatment found at the top. This has a rod pocket with curved shape on the interior and a straight side on the exterior. Other window treatments are toppers and valances which are located at the top of the windows and are made in different shapes as well as styles. You can use it individually as a kitchen curtain or can be used with a tier, panel or another hard window treatment.

A scarf is a single piece fabric that is commonly draped at the top of a window and loosely hangs on the sides. This can be placed with other panels or used individually. It measures 144 to 216 inches in length. Another type of window curtain is the drape. This is a heavy fabric which is hung from the top of a window down to the window sill below. A drape can be bought in pairs and are several types namely, tab top, pole top, or pinch pleat. This window treatment also has different backings like lined back, open back and thermal back.

Knowing all these window treatments, you should at least have some idea about the type of window curtain you should purchase. Remember kitchen curtains come in different styles, colors and fabric; you just need to match the appropriate curtain to the kitchen window and setting. The next step is finding out where to buy the kitchen curtains. If you want a hassle-free delivery of your curtain windows, the best way to go should be to look for online curtain window shops.

By: Richard Dinae

About the Author:

Richard Dinae is an architect, providing information and directories about home improvement, please visit Kitchen Valances

http://termostore.com

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Selecting Living Room Curtains

Posted on August 3, 2009 at 4:29 am
It is time to select your living room curtains and you are in a panic. You have visited all the stores, viewed all the choices and still don’t know what to choose. As with all design decisions, there is no right or wrong choice. But there are some guidelines that might make selecting your living room curtains a little bit easier.

Style is one of the first things to consider. This will be determined by the style of furniture you have chosen, the size and shape of your windows and even the architecture of your home.

The most common style of curtain is the pinch pleat drape. Fabric is gathered at the top of the drapery and “pinched” together creating a pleat. It is then attached to a curtain rod with a small metal clip at the back of the pleats. This treatment offers a full and luxurious look but can be expensive due to the amount of fabric needed.

A less expensive option is the tab top curtain. In this style a tab of fabric simply loops over the curtain rod allowing the drape to hang to the floor. This look offers a casual and relaxed feel to a room.

A contemporary version of the tab top drape would be the grommet top. Large grommets are placed at the top of fabric and a rod is woven through. A grommet is a hole in the fabric surrounded by a metal ring. Using this style in your room will create a clean and contemporary look.

If you have a beautiful view from your windows and/or privacy is not an issue, hanging stationary panels might be a good choice for you. Panels of fabric are gathered together on a short rod and hung on either side of the window or door. They are not functional but add color and softness to a room.

Rod pocket panels are a very inexpensive window treatment. A pocket of fabric is created at the top of the curtain and a rod is slipped through and attached to the wall. They are generally held open with a tieback of some sort. This can be a matching piece of fabric attached to rings on the wall or something more decorative.

Adding a “topper” to your curtains is something you will want to think about. This can be a simple ruffled valance that covers the rod to a more elaborate swag scarf look. Perhaps a tailored box cornice is more your style. Or maybe you want the beautiful wood or metal rod to show. This decision will be based on the type of curtain you have chosen and the overall design style of your living room.

All of these styles are available off the rack, reducing the cost. But if you are looking to add creativity and uniqueness to your room there is nothing more beautiful than selecting living room curtains that have been custom tailored for your home.

Budget is something we can’t ignore. As with all things, the amount you are able to spend will determine the type of curtain you choose.

A curtain purchased off the rack that is unlined can be very inexpensive. They are ready to hang and offer an immediate solution to any light or privacy issues you may have. However, they are often poorly made and will have to be replaced often. The color and pattern choices are limited.

Conversely, curtains custom made for your windows in a fabric chosen by you and properly lined can be very costly. There can be a long delay in getting these made, leaving you without window treatments for a while. But the end result will be curtains that give your room a unique look and the custom workmanship, including lining, will allow you to enjoy these curtains for a long time.

Lining your curtains is something to consider.

If you live in an area that is prone to lots of cold weather you may want to add a thermal lining to your curtains. While this will add to the cost, it can reduce the amount of energy used in your home as well as add life to the curtains by protecting them from the sun.

If you are fortunate to live in a sunny area, adding a cotton lining to your curtains will protect your fabric from the harsh rays of the sun. It can also help reduce the amount of sunlight entering the room, thereby protecting furniture and carpet from fading.

However, living in a sunny area can make it difficult to sleep during the day. The bright light can create problems if you work nights or have a baby in the house. Often the light coming into the room can make it difficult to watch television. For these reasons, you may want to consider a blackout lining. These opaque linings keep out any unwanted light and while they will add to the cost of your living room curtains, the extra sleep may be worth the extra cost!

Lastly, appearance is something to take into consideration. Lining adds body and weight to curtains, allowing them to hang properly. Your home will have a uniform look from the outside if all your curtains are lined.

Window treatments can be a costly addition to any home but taking time to make the right choices when selecting your living room curtains will save you money in the long run. The end result will be a beautiful living room you can enjoy for years to come.

By: David Beart

About the Author:

David Beart is the owner of the Professors House. Our site covers cat information, household finances, family forums, recipes and other household issues.

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Industrial High Capacity Air Curtains

Posted on July 30, 2009 at 3:36 pm
In the retail environment, research has shown that an open door increases trade by up to 40% as it is an invitation to come in and shop yet retail stores and supermarket air-conditioning systems are ‘energy-hungry’ so it would therefore seem logical to save as much of the cold air as possible, considering the cost to make it    cold in the first place. Public buildings, like airports and convention centres, which have high demand air-conditioning systems need to have open doors to allow access and, while some facilities have motion detector-activated sliding doors, usually of glass, this solution is costly, thermally not very efficient and generally just a way of reducing draughts.

Air curtains are widely accepted across North America and Europe as a standard fitment in public buildings, retail stores and industrial applications such as coolers, freezers and cold storage facilities. Air curtains are generally associated with retaining heat energy in cold climates, and the energy savings are substantial.

The idea of having an invisible barrier across the doorway to enable unimpeded access yet effectively prevent temperature flow, dust, odours and insects to cross, is appealing in itself but add to this the cost-saving in reducing energy use and the idea becomes more compelling, especially as air curtains are relatively inexpensive items. 

   

  Appropriate for industrial applications 

  Keeping warm air out of insulated cold stores or refrigerated facilities is the Number 1 objective yet a mockery is made of this premise when freezer of chiller doors are left wide open and, in some cases, chocked open to facilitate the movement or storage of perishables.

Properly installed air curtains cut cold air loss and reduce humidity, thus reducing the load on refrigeration or air-conditioning plant and thereby saving energy by reducing compressor running time, maintenance, gas and recharging intervals. These units are an alternative to fast-acting roller doors    and PVC slat curtains, and can be situated above or to the side of industrial doorways to create a powerful seal across the opening, keeping cold air in while providing complete visibility and access. This means that forklift drivers don’t have to get out of their cabs to open and close doors so that moving from one area to another is a lot easier and productive. Unlike plastic slat curtains, which quickly become opaque with use, an air curtain provides 100% visibility at all times. Units have been installed in loading bays, factories, hangars and production facilities, such as food processing and pharmaceuticals, where differential temperatures are encountered overseas. 

   

  Insect an pest control a benefit 

  An air curtain supplying a high-velocity sheet of air across a door opening will prevent flies and other flying insects from entering a building. This is particularly important in restaurants and bars, and any premises where food is manufactured or served – where strict environmental health regulations apply. It is an extremely beneficial side effect as an air curtain is primarily employed for climate control yet units are also installed overseas for insect control alone.

The most effective air curtain design for insect control has a nozzle that can angle the air stream away from the area to be protected. An angle of about 20 from the vertical is usually optimal. The unit should meet or exceed UK Department of Agriculture and US Federal Drug Administration standards, which call for an air stream of 50 mm to 120 mm wide at the nozzle, capable of producing a minimum velocity of 8 m/s of air 1 m above the floor and across the entire door opening to ensure there are no gaps for the insects to enter.

Apart from flying insects, air-curtain manufacturers say rodents are also discouraged from entering a building. They claim that rats, mice and other furry intruders do not like the sensations of an air curtain on their fur and will avoid it! 

   

  Design and installation 

  The construction an design of the equipment that generates an air curtain is quite simple – a cross flow or axial fan, driven by a constant or variable speed electric motor contained in a simple enclosure with an air inlet and outlet, sized to produce a rate of flow to suit the opening and the velocity required to prevent heat transfer.

Off-the-shelf models are available from a number of suppliers and units are also custom made but, where wide entrances are involved that exceed the capacity of one fan unit, tow or more are stacked side by side (or on top of one another in the case of side mounting of very tall openings) and operated simultaneously, meaning that there is probably no limit to the size of the opening that can be accommodated.

By directing a jet of air either from top to bottom or horizontally across a doorway, this invisible ‘barrier’ reduces the rate of heat and moisture flow through the opening and, according to independent research conducted by the US-based Refrigerated Research Foundation and the University of Illinois, this can be as much as 60% to 80% in refrigerated facilities such as cold storage buildings, cold rooms and freezers.

These simple devices can be retrofitted or specified as part of the initial refrigeration or climate control design, reducing compressor running time or using a smaller capacity unit to achieve the same performance.

A variety of installation options are available to cater for building and architectural features such as suspended ceilings but the most common is simply bolting the unit to the wall above the doorway and connecting a single phase supply and switch to the unit.

Power consumption is negligible for a normal sized doorway opening – about 300 W. Some units can even be specified with a heating element to warm an enclosed area. 

   

  Air curtains block the flow 

  An air curtain simply creates a block in the air flow through an opening. The air velocity of the curtain must then be great enough to direct the resulting velocity downward and ensure    that a small part of the air stream goes out while the main air flow comes back into the room.

For additional information please refer to http://www.olegsystems.com.

Oleg Chetchel

Industrial Systems Designer

Oleg Systems Co.

http://www.olegsystems.com/industrialventilation/Index.html

http://www.olegsystems.com/aircurtain/Index.html

By: Oleg Chechel

About the Author:

Oleg Chechel
Ventilation Equipment Designer
Canada Blower
http://www.canadablower.com/index.html
http://www.canadablower.com/oem/index.html

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