In Australia, many businesses rely on commercial cleaning services to ensure a clean and hygienic environment for their employees and any visiting guests. 

In this blog post, we’re going to look at the cost of commercial cleaning in Australia, explore what is typically included in commercial cleaning services, how often it is needed (ideally), and highlight the benefits of hiring professional cleaners. 

Whether you’re a small office or a large commercial space, read on to discover the importance of cleanliness and the value commercial cleaning services can bring to your business.

How Much Does Commercial Cleaning Cost in Australia?

First things first, how much does commercial cleaning cost, on average, in Australia? As you may have already guessed, there are some important factors that will influence the overall cost involved:

• Size of the premises: Larger spaces generally require more time and resources to clean, thus resulting in higher costs.
• Frequency of cleaning: Regular cleaning contracts are often more cost-effective than one-time or sporadic services. There are benefits to consistency. 
• Scope of services: Additional services like deep carpet cleaning, window cleaning, or the use of specialised equipment may incur extra charges.
• Location: Costs may vary across different cities and regions in Australia. For example, you’ll likely pay more in the heart of Sydney than you would in rural Perth. 

On average, commercial cleaning costs in Australia range from $30 to $50 per hour, per cleaner.

Some businesses may offer fixed pricing based on the size and requirements of your premises.

Of course, it is recommended that you obtain quotes from multiple cleaning companies to compare prices and services before you make any final commitments. 

What Is Included in Commercial Cleaning?

So, what do you get for your money? What is typically included in a commercial cleaning service? 

• Dusting and wiping surfaces: Desks, tables, countertops, shelves, etc.
• Vacuuming and mopping floors: Carpets, tiles, hardwood, or other types of flooring.
• Emptying and sanitising trash bins: Removal and proper disposal of waste & recycling. 
• Cleaning restrooms: Disinfecting toilets, sinks, mirrors, and replenishing supplies.
• Kitchen or breakroom cleaning: Wiping down appliances, countertops, and sanitising communal areas.
• Window cleaning: Interior glass surfaces (some commercial cleaning companies may offer exterior window cleaning services as well).
• High-touch surface cleaning: Door handles, light switches, handrails, etc.
• Additional services: Carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, deep cleaning, etc. (may incur extra charges).

How Often Is Commercial Cleaning Needed?

The frequency of commercial cleaning depends on several factors, including:

• Type of business and industry: Some businesses may require daily cleaning, while others may need weekly or bi-weekly services.
• Foot traffic and usage: High-traffic areas may require more frequent cleaning to maintain cleanliness.
• Health and safety regulations: Certain industries, such as healthcare or food service, have specific cleaning requirements to meet regulatory standards.
• Budget and resources: Balancing the cleaning needs with available resources is essential.

Common cleaning schedules for commercial spaces include daily, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly cleaning services.

It’s advisable to discuss your specific cleaning requirements with a professional cleaning company to determine the appropriate frequency and they can advise you accordingly. 

Ideally, you should have a cleaner come in daily (or a morning or evening) to keep up with the essentials. Then you can book in deeper cleaning on a weekly / monthly basis. 

Is It Better to Hire Commercial Cleaners or Encourage Your Staff to Chip in and Keep the Place Tidy?

While it may be tempting to assign cleaning duties to your staff, hiring commercial cleaners often proves to be a more effective solution. Here’s why:

• Expertise and efficiency: Professional cleaners are trained in using the right techniques, equipment, and cleaning products to achieve optimal results. For example, commercial carpet cleaning solutions will be far more effective at lifting out deep (and otherwise impossible to remove) stains. Let your employees focus on what they do best and hire the pros. 
• Time-saving: Outsourcing cleaning tasks allows your staff to focus on their core responsibilities, thus boosting productivity.
• Consistency: Commercial cleaners follow a structured cleaning routine, ensuring a consistently clean environment.
• Health and safety: Professional cleaners are aware of the proper sanitation practices and use products that meet industry standards. 
• Reduced liability: By hiring professionals, you mitigate the risk of accidents or injuries that may occur during cleaning tasks.
• Improved employee morale: A clean and organised workplace creates a positive atmosphere, boosting employee satisfaction and motivation. Expecting your employees to carry out their daily duties AND clean the toilets is asking too much. 

What Are the Benefits of Hiring Commercial Cleaners and Having a Clean & Tidy Office?

We cannot understate the immense importance of maintaining a clean, tidy, and sanitary working environment for your staff. Here’s why: 

• Enhanced professionalism and reputation: A well-maintained workplace creates a positive impression on clients, visitors, and potential customers.
• Improved employee health and well-being: Regular cleaning reduces the spread of germs, allergens, and bacteria, promoting a healthier work environment.
• Increased productivity: A clean and organised workspace reduces distractions, allowing employees to focus on their tasks.
• Higher employee satisfaction: A clean workplace fosters a sense of pride and contributes to a positive company culture.
• Long-term cost savings: Regular cleaning and maintenance help prolong the lifespan of office furniture, carpets, and equipment.
• Compliance with regulations: Professional cleaners can help ensure your business meets health and safety standards mandated by regulatory authorities.

Conclusion

It might sound like pie in the sky, but maintaining a clean and tidy office is crucial for the success of your business. Neglect the cleaning in your office and there will be consequences – which will be reflected in employee performance and the way that your brand is perceived by anyone who visits your establishment. 

While the cost of commercial cleaning can vary in Australia, it’s important to consider the benefits of hiring professional cleaners. Don’t look at it as a ‘cost’ or an ‘expense’, but an investment in the longevity of your business. 

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When it comes to flooring many of the materials and types may cost far more than you are willing to pay, especially when that type may well need replacing after a few years.

Here we will take a look at the cheapest and most durable flooring on the market and help you find that perfect new floor without having to sell the house to buy it.

What is the cheapest way to do flooring?

Within each kind of flooring you will find cheaper and more expensive examples, so shopping around and choosing to buy from a quality yet great value places like DIY Floorboards is your best bet for finding the right deal for you.

In terms of the cheapest possible product, that would most likely be sheet vinyl, which comes in a long roll and can supposedly be swiftly and easily be laid out on top of your current floor (depending on the state of the floor and many other factors). Sheet vinyl can be found for less than $2 per square foot, making it a real bargain, but it does have a few downsides. 

Vinyl is waterproof, so you shouldn’t have to worry much about excess moisture, but it can be damaged. If you cut your vinyl, drop something hot on it or otherwise mar or tear your floor, you will have to replace it. Because it is one long strip, you would have to redo the entire floor, whereas if you had gone for planks or tiles you could replace only the offending area.

If you like vinyl, and the price tag, but would prefer it came in a more manageable shape, you can always get plank or tile vinyl instead. These kinds of flooring are easier to install, hard-wearing and still waterproof, making them excellent value for money.

Traditionally vinyl floors could be seen as fake or plastic looking, and there is no point in spending money on a new floor if it looks like it’s been there for decades. However, new technology has improved the look and feel of vinyl in leaps and bounds, and top-quality vinyl planks and tiles can now seem almost indistinguishable from the materials they emulate.

There is of course a variety of price points here depending on the quality of the flooring and which you go for, but a small amount more spent now could end up saving you having to replace your floor later, and can make a real difference aesthetically.

Another fantastic option is laminate, which is again far cheaper and more affordable than real wood flooring, but can look almost as beautiful. You can find laminate flooring for less than $3 per square foot, but for higher-quality products that look more realistic, you may have to pay a little more.

If you look hard enough, you can find low-cost flooring in a variety of materials including carpet and tile, but the cheapest and best option around is really vinyl flooring in whichever form you prefer to buy.

What is the most durable type of flooring?

Funnily enough, the best and most affordable types of flooring also happen to be among the most durable options on the market. Vinyl flooring in general is waterproof, which puts it a step above a lot of other materials that you can buy. Even real wood will warp and can grow mouldy if exposed to too much damp, while vinyl will last and last.

Opting for luxury vinyl means that as well as being waterproof, your floors will also be hardwearing, scratch resistant and able to take heavy foot traffic, pets, and anything else you can throw at them. The protective and wear layers as well as the rigid core make vinyl planks and hybrid floors the best choice in terms of durability.

Hardwood is a great choice for durability, and if it does get scratched or worn you can always give it a sand down or refinish it – something you can’t do with hybrid or engineered wood. That being said, the latter is much less likely to scratch in the first place with its incredible resistant layer protecting the plank.

Laminate can be a great choice, but you should double-check how waterproof the kind you buy is, and it often is not a good choice for bathrooms and moisture-rich environments. You can find waterproof laminate though, and it is worth the extra cost as without this extra protection you could soon see warping and swelling at the joints where moisture has leeched in.

Certain types of carpet and tile are also wonderfully durable, but in terms of the flooring that can take water, wear and tear the best, luxury vinyl and hybrid floors are the most hardwearing and long-lasting options for you today.

What is the most popular flooring choice?

At the moment, the most popular flooring choice is arguably wide planks in grey tones, either laminate, luxury vinyl or hybrid. The colour allows you to easily pair your floor with any furniture, and it gives the room a classy yet neutral look that should continue to look gorgeous for decades to come.

Real wood floors are still revered and longed for by many, but the costs involved can put them far out of reach for lots of people, and with such incredibly realistic alternatives available, it is no wonder that so many people choose to go for luxury vinyl flooring instead.

Conclusion 

If you are looking to redo your floors in the cheapest way possible, you will be able to find options for bargain prices in several different materials. If you are willing and able to pay a little bit more, however, you could get yourself a stunning, long-lasting and durable floor that fits the fashions and looks timeless for affordable prices from the right sellers.

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In a professional kitchen, however, there are certain rules that need to be adhered to and that means keeping insects out of the kitchen. 

But why is pest control so important to a food business? What are the main pests that threaten the food industry?  And what can you do to prevent pest infestations in your commercial premises? 

Why is pest control important to a food business?

So, what’s all the fuss about? Why is pest control so important to a food business? Well, ultimately, it’s all about maintaining a certain level of cleanliness. If you have a pest problem, it’s almost always due to having poor levels of cleanliness and hygiene in your kitchen – which is simply unacceptable. 

The fact is, pests are naturally attracted to food which means that you should be storing your food correctly and thoroughly cleaning your kitchen and disposing of all food waste at the end of each working day. 

Certainly, sometimes a pest infestation can be unavoidable. You could uphold the very highest standards and still end up having your commercial premises invaded by pests. However, what’s important is that you respond immediately – and appropriately. Here’s why pest control is paramount for a food business: 

• Pests spread diseases: most pests are notorious for spreading all manner of diseases. For example, rats and mice can transmit salmonellosis, hantavirus, and other serious diseases, and cockroaches can trigger allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory issues. 
• Pests can damage the structural integrity of your property: not only can rodents chew through wires and create significant fire hazards, but termites can seriously impact the structural integrity of your property, thus putting everyone at risk. 
• Your food can be contaminated: pests are drawn to food and the moment they come into contact with it, it will be contaminated and unsafe for consumption. 
• Your reputation will be torn to shreds: once word gets out that you’ve had cockroaches running around your establishment, or rats in the kitchen, your reputation will be torn to shreds and it will be very difficult to recover from it. 
• Forced closure is not uncommon: in most cases, if you do not deal with your pest infestation appropriately, your business may be forced to shut down either temporarily or—in some cases—permanently. 

What are the main pests in the food industry?

So, what are the biggest pests that you should be mindful of in the food industry? Here’s a list of the biggest culprits giving business owners plenty of grief: 

• Cockroaches are among the filthiest creatures, picking up all manner of germs and debris when moving through sewers and pipes. Once they transfer onto your kitchen counters and equipment, you’ll be at great risk of making your customers poorly. 
• Rodents are a no-no in the food industry because they spread tonnes of different diseases. They tend to nest near sources of food and water and are notorious for breeding rapidly. Droppings and urine are common and relatively easy to spot, so if you do notice anything in your premises, contact a pest control expert immediately. 
• Flies are also known to carry a number of harmful pathogens and tend to breed around decaying trash and any other moist and unsavoury environment. Once they make their way inside they can easily contaminate your food stores. 
• Ants and so small and sneaky that they can easily find their way into your premises via the smallest openings, thus making it very difficult for you to control. If unspotted, they can quickly contaminate and destroy any food source. 
• While spiders do not pose an immediate health hazard, they are unwelcome in the hospitality industry. 

How can we prevent pests in the food service industry?

Now that you know what kind of pests can be problematic for the food industry and why what can you do to prevent them? The commercial pest control experts recommend the following: 

• The first and greatest defence against pests is maintaining a clean and pristine premise. Everything, including the kitchen and restaurant floor itself, should be thoroughly cleaned daily. All food residue and drink spillages should be removed. 
• The trash should be carried outside to the bins regularly with sealed bin liners. Not only that, but you should aim to wash your outside bins regularly so as to ensure that rodents are less likely to be attracted. 
• Always be vigilant in your problem areas and ensure that you remain on top of things.  
• Do your research and make sure that you fully understand all of the potential pests that are a threat to you and what you can do to keep them at bay. 
• Survey any potential damage and respond quickly to infestations. 
• Closely monitor your storage areas and make sure that food is regularly rotated so as not to have any out-of-date at the back of your shelves. 
• Abide by all health, safety, and food hygiene laws and you shouldn’t run into too many problems. 

Conclusion 

Pest control is paramount in the food industry. While there is much that you can do to prevent pest problems, sometimes, it’s an unavoidable fact of life. 

If you do suspect that you may have an infestation, we urge you to act immediately and contact a reputable company like Expert Pest Control in Marsden Park to visit your premises and recommend the appropriate course of action. 

Fortunately, commercial pest control companies are flexible and discreet, so you should have too much trouble alleviating the problem as long as you act quickly!

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Proper pool maintenance is essential to keep on enjoying your pool for decades to come, so here we will look at one aspect of that; when, why, and how to drain your pool.

How often should a pool be drained and refilled?

On average, you should drain and refill your pool once every 5 years. Some experts drop down to 3 and some up to 7, it can depend on a number of factors. Just remember that most of the cleaning and maintenance that you will do can be done with water in the pool, so draining it is not something that you will have to do very often.

One time you will have to drain your pool is if you are getting large amounts of repairs or work done on it. For example, getting a top-notch company like West Coast Pool Resurfacing to come in and repaint your pool may require draining the water, but once done your pool will be back to looking as good as new and you won’t have to do it again for many years.

You may also have to drain your pool if there is too much debris or mess for your filter and cleaning to manage to get rid of alone. Though again, you should be able to sort most dirt and mess out without draining, or only partially draining your pool, it can sometimes become necessary. If you are in any doubt, ask an experienced pool maintenance professional for guidance.

In general, your very occasional draining should be done when the total dissolved solids, or TDS, in your water reach an unmanageable level. This is around 2500ppm, and at this stage, you will find that you are adding more and more chemicals to try and balance your pool levels, and know that it is time.

Draining your pool and refilling it can improve the health and quality of your pool if it is starting to struggle under the overload of – sorry to say – skin and hair cells among other materials that build up over time.

We all want to be swimming in the cleanest and clearest water that we can. Draining your pool will get rid of the build-up of organic materials, oils, and environmental factors that are impacting your water quality, and give you the chance to start over again with a fresh body of water.

Where does the water go when you drain a pool?

You will have to be careful when you drain your pool that you have the correct safeguards in place to make sure the water is safe to be drained. You wouldn’t want all that chlorinated water flowing into your garden, for instance, and causing damage to your plants. Likewise, your neighbours, local farmers, and anyone nearby will feel the same way.

You should never drain a freshly chlorinated pool, but rather check that the levels of chlorine are low enough to be safe for the area. Where exactly your pool water goes will depend on your own drainage systems that you have built-in and how you are draining it, so better to be safe than sorry.

Some pools will have a proper system that drains them into the sewers, or the same routes that any wastewater will take. Others will simply be decanted into the yard or flow into the nearest body of water, so you can see why it is important to get the chemical levels under control first.

Remember, you won’t be draining your pool that often, and if you are draining it for the sake of a repair you can always ask the experts for tips and help with what you should do before you start to drain the water.

Owning a pool should be way more fun than it is hard work, so do as much cleaning and maintenance with the water still in the pool as you can.

Does draining a pool damage it?

Draining a pool at the wrong time and in the wrong way can indeed damage your pool, and this is another reason why you should avoid doing so as much as possible. People who drain their pools for winter, for example, are placing an undue risk on their pool and its lining, as well as failing to understand that you can close your pool for the winter without draining it.

If you drain your pool in cold weather, the lining can shrink and then tear when you try to refill it. Older linings in particular will stretch less well over time, and replacing or repairing your lining will be expensive.

You can also have issues with groundwater that can interfere with your pool and will need to be pumped away. For some in-ground pools, if the groundwater is high enough it can actually push the whole pool out of the ground – not something that you want to happen to yours!

In general, pool draining should never be attempted unless you know exactly what you are doing. If you are in any doubt, get a professional to guide you or do the job for you. As it only has to happen rarely, the expense will not be too great, and the potential issues that can arise from doing it yourself make an expert opinion well worth it.

Conclusion 

To Sum Up:

• Your pool should be drained and refilled roughly every 5 years depending on the need for repairs or a build-up of material that chemicals alone cannot deal with.
• You should never drain a freshly chlorinated pool, and be aware of where the water goes as it can have a huge impact on your pool and the area.
• Draining your pool can be damaging if done at the wrong time, or in the wrong way.

Having a clean, fresh and delightful body of water to jump into should be a source of utter joy and not a cause for concern. If you are in any doubt at all about what to do with and how to maintain your pool, don’t hesitate to ask a professional for help today.

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What type of paint is used in commercial buildings?

The exact right kind of paint for your commercial building will depend largely on where exactly you will be painting. There are many varieties for you to choose from, and each is tailored towards different conditions and has its own pros and cons. Whether you are looking to conceal flaws in the wall underneath, wish for the most durable option, or are simply looking for a low-cost lick of paint, there is the right choice for you here.

Flat Paint

Flat paint is an ideal lower-cost option, easy to apply and great for covering up any small imperfections in the wall at the same time. Very much a concealer paint, if you have any stains or blemishes that other paints would not help to hide, flat paint will get the job done. It is also easy to touch up and apply another coat in the future.

The downside to flat paint is that it is not as easy to clean as the other options available, and is weak in the areas of moisture resistance and durability. If you are in a busy environment where the level of wear is key, flat paint may not be the best choice for you.

Satin Paint

Another good option for your commercial building is satin paint. This comes with a subtle shine that brings an extra level of light and brightness to your building. It is also easier to clean and lasts longer than flat paint in high-traffic areas. With a mid-sheen finish and its level of durability, satin paint is an excellent choice for many areas in your commercial building.

However, this kind of paint does require more preparation than flat paint. You must make sure that your walls are sanded down, and clean of any grease, dirt, or chips that will show up under any coats that you apply. It is also usually more expensive than flat paint, though the improved look and prolonged likely use can make this a worthwhile expenditure.

Gloss and Semi-Gloss Paint

A wonderful choice for its final look, high level of durability and easiness to clean, gloss and even semi-gloss paints are one of the favourite types of paint for many buildings. The quality of the paint means that you won’t have to repaint as often and the sheen will brighten any room.

This kind of paint again requires a great deal of preparation. It is also essential that it is applied correctly. A bad paint job with gloss is harder to correct, while a professional job done by a company like Platinum 3 Commercial Painting in Brisbane will leave your building looking fantastic. In this case, the extra initial expense is well worth it in the long run.

Another potential issue is that when you paint a commercial building you must consider how long it will take to paint and to dry before you can open again for business. Choosing a latex paint in gloss or semi-gloss will give you the same excellent finish while drying in a shorter time, so make sure to check the kind of gloss you want before buying.

How often should you paint a commercial building?

The general industry standard for painting commercial buildings is once every 3-5 years, though there are many factors that can impact this time frame. Regular painting is essential to protect the outside of the property as well as the inside, to keep it looking fresh and clean and to help prevent structural damage. Overexposure to sunlight may cause your paint to fade and shorten the timeline until your next coat is required, while little-used or less-lit buildings may have longer gaps between repainting.

While your building may not require painting that often for structural and protection reasons, you may also choose to repaint more often for aesthetics. A coat of paint can revitalise a property, inspire your team to work harder and make it more welcoming for possible clients. There are many benefits to repainting your building, though roughly every 3-5 years should be sufficient.

What is the best colour for commercial buildings?

The best colour for your commercial building will depend entirely on what it is you are trying to achieve. There are no shortage of colours for you to choose from, indeed today you can find everything under the sun and create your own shades fairly easily. If you have a personal preference there should be no trouble in finding the right colour for you.

Different colours can often mean different outcomes or provoke different feelings in customers and staff. Green is supposed to be a very relaxing colour, lighter colours will promote the feeling of space and airiness, and blue and orange are said to help your staff feel motivated and increase efficiency.

For a timeless and professional yet approachable look, most commercial buildings lean towards a neutral colour palate, but the choice is up to you.

Conclusion

To Sum Up:

• There are many different types of paint and finishes available depending on the kind of building you have, how durable it needs to be, and how much you wish to spend.
• Gloss or semi-gloss paints are often the best, tending to be long-lasting and easy to clean.
• You should repaint your commercial building every 3-5 years depending on how faded or worn it is looking as well as personal preference.
• The choice of colour is up to you, but neutral colours are a safe option.

Painting your commercial building can have a huge impact on your property. You may wish to join the myriad of other businesses that do it right and have it professionally painted. You will see how much better it looks immediately, notice that it won’t need touching up and time soon, and see that it was the right choice for you.

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Do – Start slowly

A swimming pool is a lot more than a hole in the ground with water in it.  Uncovering your pool and filling it with water does not mean that it is ready to use, in fact it is definitely unsanitary and might even be dangerous.  The pool will need to be cleaned, both of debris and chemically, then the pump needs to be on and running long enough to pull pretty much all of the water in your pool through the filters.  This adds to the cleaning and gets your pool to a reasonable point where it should be safe enough.

Don’t – Ignore the pH level

The pH level in the water is one of the biggest management tasks pool owners face.  This tells you how acidic or alkaline the water currently is and as such regular checks are essential as if the pH level deviates one way or the other it can irritate eyes and skin or worse.  Testing kits are widely available and make monitoring the pH level simple and rebalancing it is just a case of introducing the relevant chemicals to the water.

Do – Use algaecide

Algae is one of the biggest threats to a clean pool.  It builds up on the sides of the pool and in the pipes, pump and filters which can lead to discoloured water, bad smells and even sickness for swimmers.  Using algaecide to treat a problem before it grows out of hand is an absolute must and treatments aren’t complicated or expensive.  But if algae is allowed to take hold then the cost or repair and refurbishment will be a lot more than a bottle of chemical treatment.

Don’t – Be afraid of basic maintenance and repair

Patching loose grout or replacing broken tiles should be a task that pool owners get comfortable performing.  These are relatively simple and low cost repairs that prolong the life of the pool, providing a better all round experience.  For bigger problems or more substantial repairs then knowing when to call in the experts is a skill all of its own.

There is plenty to know about owning a pool, but these four simple tips are a great place to start.  Forgetting that a pool is actually a careful balancing act of numerous factors is a surefire way to shorten the life of the pool and, in a more severe case, cause serious sickness in swimmers.  Hopefully, this is a great starting point to ensure that you look after your pool so that you can enjoy it safely.

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Let’s start with comfort 

Australia is hot. That’s a fact. It’s so hot in fact, that during the summer months the heat can at times become unbearable. By having your windows tinted, you can significantly improve the comfort in your home. The tinted windows will invariably reduce the impact of the sun coming through into your home, making the temperature more manageable.

Reduced energy bills 

Leading onto improved levels of comfort in your home, tinted windows will also mean reduced energy bills. This is largely due to the fact that you won’t need to have your AC’s blasting out cool air all day to combat the heat. Certainly, tinted windows aren’t going to be a guaranteed substitute to an air conditioning unit, but they do make a huge difference. 

Over time, what you save on your energy bills each month, will begin to offer you a ROI. 

Environmentally friendly 

Of course, if you’re using your AC units a significant amount less, then you’ll be doing your bit for the environment. Reduced energy bills and less demand for electricity can only help to reduce your carbon footprint. Perfect if your conscious about climate change! 

Additional privacy 

Don’t you just hate it when somebody walks past your house and has a little nose through the window whilst you’re trying to relax with your family? By having tinted windows installed, nobody will be able to see into your home from the outside. Or at least, not during the day. Naturally, if it’s dark outside and you have your lights on then there will be a certain amount of visibility. That said, what else are curtains for if not for privacy of an evening? 

Security 

In addition to privacy offering you greater security (largely due to the fact that potential burglars won’t be able to see your belongings), the durable nature of tinted film adds to the security as well. This is because they are incredibly resistant to shattering. So, should someone attempt to break into your house through a window, they’re going to have a tough time of it. 

Shatter resistant 

If in the event of an earthquake, or an accident, your windows will be significantly less likely to shatter. And should they break for any reason, they won’t smash into a million pieces as the tinted film will hold the shards of glass together. 

Find a suitable window tinting company to invite into your home 

If you’re interested in benefiting from tinted windows, then you’ll need to find a suitable window tinting company to assist you. Look online and you’ll find a wealth of reliable companies. Once you’re settled on a company that you like the look of, you can get to work in improving the aesthetic appeal, safety and privacy of your home. 

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If you are a bit of an adventurer and that description sums you and your family up, then you’re going to love these drawer systems for UTE’s. In a nutshell, they’re the ultimate storage solution for a UTE vehicle. In this post we’re going to talk about the benefits of having them installed.

Clever storage makes for easier packing

The best thing about drawer systems for UTE’s is the clever storage. Normally when packing for a camping trip, everything gets stacked up inside the truck and squeezed into position until everything finally fits. It’s like a complicated game of Tetris which normally ends up in an argument!

The reason why these clever drawers makes packing easier, is because they’re convenient for storing the smaller items which otherwise end up all over the place. You can fill them up with the essentials and tick off your list so that you know where you’re at. Following that, you can stack the heavier items on-top of your drawer system. Simple.

Additional privacy and security

The beauty in these awesome drawer systems for UTE’s is that they can serve multiple functions. You can use them to keep items in your car out of sight. There are plenty of bits that we would love to leave in our car but are forever taking them out in fear of them prompting thieves to break into our car. Whereas now, you can conveniently keep them stored in your vehicle out of sight.

Additionally, if someone were to break into your car, unless they think to open up the boot, they won’t know to look. This means that anything stored in your drawers will go left untouched.

Keep your shopping bags from going everywhere!

It’s not always possible to do a big shop and fill your boot with bags. So, sometimes you invariably go to the shop for a few smaller bits (like a few bottles of wine perhaps). This can be a bit of a nightmare if you don’t have any way to secure your shopping. It can be stressful driving home from the shops and hearing your bottles clinking around in the back. Every speed bump you approach feels like it’s going to be the one to finally smash them.

With a drawer system for your UTE however, you won’t need to worry. You can simply open them up and stock them up with some of your smaller shopping items to keep them safe and secure for the journey home. Simple and easy!

Summary

Of course, these are just a handful of the benefits. If you’d like a clearer picture of what these drawer systems look like, then you should check out 4×4 accessories online. There you will be able to get a better idea as to how they can look in your car. You’ll fall in love with them as soon as you do and want to kit your UTE out with them immediately!

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Read on and we’ll tell you everything you need to know about Michelin Star restaurants and the Aussie Chef Hat rating system. Let’s tuck in! 

What is a Michelin Star Restaurant?

Firstly, what is a Michelin Star restaurant? A Michelin Star is an award that is annually handed out to restaurants for offering their customers exceptional cooking. 

There are five universal criteria that are taken into consideration when scoring a restaurant: 

• The quality of the ingredients in the dish.
• The harmony of the flavours is present. 
• The mastery of the cooking techniques applied. 
• The personality of the chef is expressed through their cuisine. 
• And of course, consistency across both the menu and over time. 

There is absolutely nothing else that goes into the scoring process. The judges do not look at the aesthetic appearance of the restaurant, the layout, the curb appeal – nothing. The Michelin Star system is purely and simply dedicated to the food. 

Obviously, it’s fair to say that any restaurant with food exceptional enough to be awarded a Michelin Star will be in a reasonably presentable condition – so we wouldn’t worry too much about that. 

Why is there no Michelin Star Restaurants in Australia?

So, why are there no Michelin Star Restaurants in Australia? Is the food really that bad here that we cannot gain recognition enough to receive such a prestigious award?! 

Don’t worry! The food in Australia is wonderful. The simplest answer is that the Michelin Guide doesn’t cover Australia yet – unfortunately. They cover a wide variety of countries throughout the world, however, they have yet to make their way down under just yet. 

So, what is a restaurant to do when they want to achieve a little critical acclaim in Australia? Is there no one keeping an eye out for these exceptionally gifted chefs? 

The good news is that Australia does have a similar system: The Chef Hat Rating system by AGFG. 

How does the Hat system work?

And how does the elusive Hat system work? 

In order to receive a hat (which is arguably a great honour for a chef and a high point in any restaurant’s history), a restaurant must score at least 15 points out of a possible 20. 

Reviewers turn up to a restaurant unannounced, book a table under an assumed name, pay for their own meals, and then closely scrutinise the quality of the food. 

How do you score points in the Chef Hat system?

There is a clear scoring system in the Chef Hat handbook and each of the reviewers will work closely from it. 

Again, the scores are calculated out of a possible 20. 

Food is undoubtedly the most important aspect of a restaurant – which is scored out of 10 points. 

Following that, the service is the next important aspect of a dining experience – which is scored out of 5 points. 

Next is the overall ambience and vibe (taking into account lighting and noise level) – which is scored out of 3 points. 

Finally, the “wow factor” is taken into consideration – which is scored out of 2 points (things like having a stunning view, a prime location, and a vegetable garden score well in this regard).  

To recap: 

• 10 points for food.
• 5 points for service.
• 3 points for ambience.
• 2 points for “wow factor”. 
• 20 points total. 

What is the highest Chef Hat rating?

The highest possible Chef Hat rating is 20, however, no restaurant has yet to snatch up the ultimate prize. In fact, many people question whether or not it is even possible! 

The Chef Hat system is heavily influenced by the Michelin Star system – however, is widely considered less intense. 

Restaurants that score 12 to 13 points are “commended”. 

Those who score 14 to 15 points are “worth a stop on the way”. 

16 to 17 points are branded “worth a detour”. 

And any restaurant that achieves a score of 18 to 19 points is considered “worth a special journey”. 

Again, no one has yet to hit 20 – and a score of 19 is very rarely awarded. 

What Chef Hat rating is considered good? 

The tricky thing when it comes to restaurant rating systems is when you see a restaurant score 12 to 13 points out of a possible 20, it’s easy to make an assumption that the restaurant is clearly not very good. This is definitely not the case. 

In fact, any restaurant that scores a 12 or 13 Chef Hat rating can actually be considered as being a high-quality restaurant with decent food and a brilliant ambience. 

The 14 to 15 mark is a little more upmarket and noteworthy. 

16 to 17 are absolutely worth going out of your way for. 

And anything above that is considered to be world-class and a must-have experience. 

So, don’t be put off if you find that a restaurant near you “only” scores 12 or 13 points – because that is actually a commendable achievement indeed. 

Isn’t a restaurant reviewing process subjective? 

You would think that, but this is what separates a Trip Advisor rating compared to a professional Chef Hat review. 

It isn’t about what the reviewers like on a personal basis. They don’t judge a restaurant from a biased point of view, but by following a very strict set of parameters.

The judges look for things like: 

• How unique is the dish?
• Is it well conceived and executed? 
• Are the dishes well-seasoned?
• Has the cooking method done the quality ingredients justice? 
• Etc. 

Conclusion 

To recap: 

• There are no Michelin Star Restaurants in Australia because the rating system hasn’t been established in Australia yet. 
• The Chef Hat system is Australia’s answer to the Michelin Star system. 
• 10 points are awarded for food, 5 for service, 3 for ambience, and 2 for “wow factor”. 
• The highest Chef Hat rating is 20 (although it has never been achieved – and 19 is very rare). 
• A score of 12 to 13 is respectable and worth a visit. 

If you are looking for a fine example of a well-rated chef and catering, Dining Abode has established a solid reputation over the years. 

We hope that you have found this article insightful and that you now have a much better understanding of the Chef Hat system.

The post Why are there no Michelin Star Restaurants in Australia? How does the hat system work? What is the highest Chef Hat rating? appeared first on MT Mag - creative to real life stories.

The Banksia tree is a very distinctive plant with an iconic appearance due to its cone-shaped fruits that remain firmly closed for many years. The Banksia is named after the botanist Sir Joseph Banks and remains one of the most popular trees found in Australian gardens. 

Are Banksia trees native to Australia?

So, are Banksia trees native to Australia? Yes, and no! You see, there are 173 different Banksia and all of them except for one occurs in naturally in Australia. This one exception is the Dentata (a tropical Banksia), that can be found on islands to the north of Australia, including New Guinea and the Aru islands. 

The greater diversity of Banksia can be found in the South-West of Australia (with 60 different Banksia species being recorded) and they remain a very important part of Australia’s flora on the East coast as well. 

There are also a few Banksias that are found in both the arid areas of Australia and its rainforests. 

The beloved Banksia tree is a protected species by the Australian Government. 

How big do Banksia trees grow?

So, how big do the esteemed Banksia trees actually grow? Banksias can range anywhere from a low-growing shrub, all the way up to a whopping 25-metres tall (and beyond).  

These plants tend to grow best in well-drained soils with plenty of sunlight. 

Most Banksia trees respond rather well to a light pruning – however, the Lighnotuber species can be heavily pruned. 

For feeding, only fertilisers that are low in phosphorous should be used. 

The species that are native to Western Australia are unfortunately prone to a root-rot fungus and thus typically does not grow well in high-humidity regions in Australia. 

Are banksias slow or fast growing trees?

Banksia are actually a slow-growing tree, however, they are very long-lived and can take several years to properly flower. They have beautiful foliage and develop a unique, gnarled and ‘warty’ grey trunk as they age. 

Are banksias toxic?

As for the toxicity of Banksias, the trees are not regarded as toxic at all.

How to care for a Banksia tree

The Banksia tree is so popular in Australian gardens because it boasts nectar-filled flowers that attract all manner of bees and birds. They also make wonderful cut indoor flowers when they release their delightful ‘honey’ scent. 

If you want to grow and care for a Banksia tree of your own, here’s everything you need to know…

First, you must choose a sunny situation for your Banksia to be planted. You need free-draining soil in order to prevent the tree from developing root rot. These trees are happy in sandy soils, though they do appreciate a little organic matter from time to time. 

As for clay soils, they need to be enriched with gypsum with a raised bed to assist with drainage other the Banksia will not thrive. 

The main taproot of the Banksia tree can take up to two years to be fully established. Make sure that you keep a close eye on them during the first two summers of their lives, and ensure that they have plenty of extra water when necessary during especially hot periods. Following that, Banksia tends to be rather drought-resistant. 

Particularly if you are growing a Banksia from a seed, you’ll be pleased to learn that they germinate easily and can take as little as a few days to establish. 

Fertilising your Banksia 

Banksia have very special roots (aka proteoid roots) that can help them to grow comfortably in Australia’s low-nutrient soil. As such, they don’t tend to require much in the way of fertilisation at all. That, and as mentioned above, they are particularly sensitive to phosphorous. 

However, if you do want to apply some organic fertiliser for good measure, we recommend doing so twice a year while double checking the labels to ensure that they are indeed safe for natives and have less than 2% phosphorous. 

What are the most common pests, diseases, and problems for Banksia trees? 

While the Banksia trees are relatively resilient and have great survivability, like all trees, they are not entirely impervious to pests and diseases. Here are some of the more common issues faced by Banksia trees:

• Caterpillars are notorious for attacking Banksia. Keep a close eye on yours – particularly for signs of leaves and foliage being eaten. 
• Scale are pesky sap suckers that, if left untreated, can cause sooty mould to develop – which can be especially dangerous for Banksia trees. 
• Root rot occurs when there is poor drainage and this disease can be very dangerous for a Banksia tree. If you notice the leaves turning brown, while clinging to the braches, your Banksia could be in serious trouble. The best way to prevent this is by improving soil drainage and adding organic materials like compost in order to rebalance the helpful microbes in the soil. 
• Phosphorous toxicity, as mentioned earlier, is a very real risk for Banksia trees so you must monitor the amount of phosphorous that your tree encounters. If your Banksia has yellowing leaves with brown tips and edges, it could be a result of this ailment. You can alleviate this by adding OCP eco-seaweed to your soil, thus building up the strength and vitality of your Banksia on a weekly basis. Adding iron is also a very effective means of reducing excess phosphorous levels. 

Pruning a Banksia 

Again, most species of Banksia enjoy a light pruning once a year. If you do plan to prune your Banksia, make sure that you are very careful as this is a protected species, native to Australia. When in doubt, hire professional tree pruning by Lakeside Trees and Stumps to be on the safe side!

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