Most people do not realize how chemical additives enhance the performance of building products.  As a building contractor, I am always looking for better products to provide the best possible construction projects.  The role that chemicals play in concrete integrity, sheathing treatments and asphalt additives is an important one.

Additives to concrete help it set up quicker and stronger.  Sheathing that is chemically treated to extend the life and water resistance is paramount to the structural integrity of any building project.  Shingles that are treated improve and extend the life of your roof by stabilizing the heat resistance and deter crumbling of the asphalt itself.  Contact H.W. Enterprises, Inc. to see how we can help you with your next garage or building.

Inflatable Concrete:  What is that? How does it work?  Why is it better than conventional framing?

Not every house is built the same.  And Complex Free-Form Structures, such as museums, statues and other structures - such as homes, aren't the future anymore, it is the NOW.

Round structures are now possible using Inflatable Concrete.  Previously, building a round structure was unheard of.  There is an exact science to this form of construction .  Virtually any shape building is now a viable option. 

Using a Pneumatic Wedge Method, inflatable concrete is applied over an inflatable air cushion with 2 plastic sheets welded together with steel cables.  The curing process is faster than traditional concrete.

There is a catch.  Each shape MUST be absolutely correct to prevent cracking.  The concept is that any cracking that may occur will be stabilized by the other surrounding concrete - similar to old stone arches.  However, each angle must have a small radius of curvature - less than 3mm.

This science is an amazing addition to traditional construction and allows for homes and commercial buildings to be less expensive and less time consuming to erect. 

What else will science do for construction remains to be seen.  Our world is changing for the better.  Only our minds limit what can be done in building.

Contact H.W. Enterprises Inc. if you are interested in using this technology to build your next building or garage.

When you are constructing a garage, shell home, addition or barn, lighting and ventilation are important considerations to make. We certainly need to see and we need to have air. The building requirements regarding light and ventilation are determined by whether the new structure is habitable or inhabitable space. Code says that all habitable rooms are to have window glass not less than 8% of the floor area of those rooms. Windows are not required however if a mechanical ventilation system is installed.

This is not the case when building a garage. Garages are not considered habitable spaces unless a portion of the building is to be used for true living space, such as apartment –garages.

In the summer, attic spaces or second stories get hot. In the winter, the whole building can also be rather cold. Most people build garages for automobiles and tool storage. Men who like to tinker make room for a workshop of sorts in addition to housing cars. Building garages with second stories is a common desire. You can have your cars and tools downstairs and ample storage upstairs. How do you stay warm? In the milder months, opening the door, garage doors or windows can keep the building cooler, but what can you do about heat?

Most garages do not have heat or other mechanical trade work. They are acceptably used primarily for storage, not as habitable spaces. Lighting puts off heat. The more lights the more generation of heat. You can’t very well put in endless lighting though. Number one you would have a hard time squinting constantly and your electric bill would be enormous. What are some options?

Insulating your garage, barn or accessory structure is the first line of defense. Installing insulation is relatively easy with only 4 tools needed: safety glasses, a tape measure, a staple gun and a knife. Ceilings should have R-38 and walls R-19. This is a cost-effective measure that helps shield the building from the outside temperatures and hold in interior temperatures.

Radiant heat in the slab can certainly make a difference in temperature. It is a series of electrical cords that are put into the concrete when you pour your slab. It is costly due to the need for constant current, however, long-term exposure of your feet and legs while in your garage will certainly create discomfort over time.

There are a variety of mini-split HVAC units that are ductless and require little current. This is a cost-effective method to heating and cooling your garage, barn or accessory structure. And of course, you could certainly put in a full HVAC system.

Lastly, insulation on the outside of the garage using wraps, tape, caulk and quality building products ensures the best possible environment. CALL H.W. ENTERPRISES, INC. at 757-595-4562 or                  757-696-1927 and visit us on the web: WWW.HWENTERPRISESINC.COM . WE HAVE BEEN BUILDING GARAGES FOR ALMOST 60 YEARS. H.W. ENTERPRISES, INC. will help you plan a successful garage.