#(for algae cleaning purposes)

[nyctibiius]

more of the betta swamp!!

[gladiatorcunt]

- UNDEAD UNEARTHED !!

you’re too sweet for me

cw: 18+ mdni, goth reader, reader is lowkey mean but not really on purpose, mentions of reader wearing makeup & a skirt, dubcon due to alcohol use and taking advantage of a vulnerable person, ambiguous intentions/ending, reader has a pussy, friends!pope & reader, one line of vomit kink & puppy reader talk, unprotected sex on the beach, feet kink, mentions of animal hunting & implied bone collecting, arguable intox (?) kink, unedited, title inspired by hozier but not directly from the unreal unearth album (subtitle is), experimental style, one usage of the word ‘daddy’, piss kink

wc: 1.5k

1k event. / consider commissioning me!

You’re out at night hunting a gator that some jackass threw into your family’s lake on a whim. It’s not a body of water that beckons the upper class to visit, large parts of it swamped with algae and fervidly humid as any circle of hell. But it’s yours, and you’d hate to get your foot bitten clean off because you procrastinated taking things into your own hands. An annoying job anyway, guess the bones rumored to be buried in the marsh will have to wait.

You’re just minding your business when a boat pulls up. Standing tall behind like the wheel like a captain is your one night stand from a few days ago, John….. C? Or maybe B, whatever. To his right is your longtime acquaintance Pope, someone who you probably would be a lot closer to if you didn’t resign yourself to being the world’s youngest hermit. You bonded over math and reading and you were glad to feel normal for once, to have a normal near-friend and do normal things.

He was the one that made an off handed comment about a party going down at the beach. Nothing special on this sinkhole in the shape of an island, but in theory you can appreciate a casual offer to hang out. You made the decision to only be there for half an hour since the drive back to your trailer was long and winded. You must have looked lonely, because John B (though you didn’t know his name at the time) had sought you out 15 minutes after your arrival and pats your back while you throw up the cheap liquor. Fuck you for trying out the nauseating neon colored liquids in those cheap red solo cups.

You can’t be mad at Pope, you squirreled your way to the pebbled trail leading to the beach soon after exchanging small talk.

“You’ll feel better when you get it all out, okay?” The brunette guy holding your back softly smiles, chomping at the bit to take care of something other than everything else he has to deal with. “Just lean on me and try to relax your throat.”

You’re admittedly embarrassed but you felt something warm stir within you, if you were sober you’d have batted his hands away and all but hissed and bared your teeth. You could almost purr like this, a heavy hand settled on your head and another petting your flank to soothe your trembling. The crosses on the black jacket you’re wearing shook in the breeze, a soft chorus of jingling sounds ringing through the air. Eventually you empty your stomach, he squeezes your shoulder and tucks you into his side as you calmed down.

Your heavy eye makeup and dark lipstick are smudged, your mascara left little trails down your face due to your tears. Having a gag reflex really was the worst, you decide.

“So, do I have a name to call you?” He asked “Can’t think of you as the pretty stranger I saw puking their guts out forever, y’know?”

Your cheeks heat up and you really wish a random tsunami would sweep you out to sea, but you give him your name and hoard the sound of him repeating it in your skull. A part of you between your legs hopes that he does the same when you wrap your lips around the simple syllables of his name, first and last. John B. Routledge is more attractive than he has any right to be, but you know he doesn’t need you to tell him that.

He tilts his head and the moonlight shifts to frame his face. It makes him look like the kind of guy you‘d go to a Lovers Lane with and makeout in his car past any reasonable hour. Someone normal, and you’re a recluse but that doesn’t mean you don’t get lonely. You stumble away from the partygoers, led by his firm grip to a private-ish area of the beach.

He smiles at you again as he pulls his t-shirt off and lays it down on the ground.

He takes a seat and pats the spot beside him, “You need some peace and quiet, some fresh air too. Come sit with me, I don’t think it’d be a good idea to leave you alone right now.”

You bite the inside of your cheek but sit down anyway, and you let him rest your head against his shoulder. You sit in that position for a while, watching the full moon shine on the ocean below. It feels nice, and you weirdly don’t want to leave, so you sink into the embrace and allow the distant cheers and yelling to fade into the background.

The world is fuzzy when he kisses you for the first time, there’s an airbrush filter over everything in your field of vision. You throw caution to the wind and clumsily kiss back, enjoying the glide of your lips together and the reoccurring pecks that bookmark every brush of skin.

You slur that you really never do this, have sex with somebody the night you meet them. John B chuckles, assuring you that he never thought you were the type to do that anyway. You keep to yourself too much, it’s a wonder you’re even allowing him to peel off your studded skirt and lace panties. He kisses down your leg and when he gets to your strappy sandal, he directs your foot to his bulge and grinds against it while he undoes the straps.

Your right shoe is promptly tossed over your head. Your top joins it, but the sickening clang your jacket makes is close to taking you out of the moment.

Then he groans, and you boldly move your toes up and down the shaft, giving what seems like a sizable cock a sloppy footjob. Your foot keeps slipping, but it makes him harder watching you struggle to regain your footing and keep up your pace. You press your heel into his balls, judging the heft of them and how they swell. You only stop when you skirt your big toe around the head of his dick, and John B clamps a hand around your ankle, chiding you for being so greedy already.

He repeats the process with the other shoe and suddenly your legs are spread and he’s kneeling in front of your exposed pussy with the strangest look on his face. Like it’s what he’s been waiting his entire life for but never knew he needed until he saw it in the flesh. He teases your clit with a few uncoordinated touches, messy circles with the tip of his thumb that leave you wanting.

Your limbs wade through water on the way to wrap around his neck, your anchor in the dizzying sea of lowered inhibitions. You grow wet disturbingly quickly, and the sticky sounds of his fingers playing with your folds, delving deeper up your slit and into your cunt sound louder than gunshots.

You’re so out of it you don’t notice the golden droplets falling on the pads of his digits. He wears them like luxury rings.

He coos and grins, “That’s it, you’re a messy puppy, huh? ‘S okay, I think it’s sweet.”

Your throat spasms and gargles around a watery reply, something about agreeing and thanking him and begging. You think you call him Daddy when the pleasure starts to rewire your brain.

He’s… caring, adjusting his shirt under you so you don't get too much sand sticking to your skin and stroking his thumbs down your thighs whenever you tense up. A tad too sweet for your liking, without the bitterness you’d expect from someone else. It feels right, and you guess that’s what causes you to whine and paw at the waistband of his shorts. John B pants into your slack jawed mouth and nods, licking your teeth and freeing his dick.

You don’t pick up on the lack of alcohol that should be permeating his breath, all you can focus on is how softly he taps the fat tip of his cock on your hole. Like it’s shy but going to do whatever it wants regardless, mold your guts around his length and leave anyone else without being able to fit into the lock he’s custom made.

In the present, your grip around your shotgun loosens considerably and that’s the sign he needs.

“I couldn’t stop thinking about you, and I forgot to get your number, so I…I just couldn’t wait anymore.” He says as if that explains everything, as if it seems perfectly fine that he dragged his friend out onto his boat to find out where you lived.

You don’t remember the specifics of the night, but you recall bits and pieces. How his cock stretched your walls and left you clenching around nothing, his necklace smacking the inside of your chin as he thrust inside of you with expert precision, his tongue cleaning the dried vomit off the corner of your mouth and forcing you to taste it. You don’t really remember the individual actions, but you can’t forget the sensations, so you watch the barely there ripples in the water as the boat moves farther into the distance. Your number on a torn piece of paper clutched in John B’s fist.

The gator better not have been scared off.

[bestanimal]

Round 1 - Phylum Porifera

(Sources - 1, 2, 3, 4)

The Phylum Porifera includes the sponges, also called sea sponges.

These animals are filter feeders that are bound to the sea bed in their adult forms, though some have free-swimming larva. Many species are important for building reefs. Their bodies consist of a mass of collagen jelly (called mesohyl) sandwiched between two main layers of cells. But they are not soft! Most sponges’ bodies are full of sharpened structural elements called spicules, which are made of either silica or calcium carbonate, so any predator biting into a sponge would get the same sensation as biting into shards of glass. Some sponges also have exoskeletons. Most sponges filter food particles via water flowing through their barrels and pores, but some sponges are carnivorous, using either sticky threads or barbed spicules to catch prey. Sponges may have been the first animals, and fossils of them date back to the Cambrian.

Propaganda under the cut:

Sponges could teach us how life began on earth.

As filter-feeding omnivores that feed on detritus, plankton, bacteria, and in some cases crustaceans and other small animals, sponges are an important part of the nutrient cycle in the ocean. Some are also symbiotic to other organisms, like algae, and provide homes for many reef animals.

Glass sponges, with skeletons of six-pointed siliceous spicules, are one of the longest lived animals on earth, with a possible maximum age of around 15,000 years!

While the spicules of most sponges render them too rough for human use, species in the genera Hippospongia and Spongia have soft, fibrous skeletons. Early Europeans used these dried out skeletons for many purposes, including cleaning, padding helmets, filtering water, painting, and even as contraceptives. The sponge industry almost brought these species to extinction, so nowadays most kitchen sponges are made of synthetic or plant-based material.

As revealed in the stage musical, the beloved cartoon character Spongebob Squarepants is an Aplysina fistularis (common name: yellow tube sponge), seen in the first image of this post.

spunch

[oncewhenalongtimeago]

(SbITILYP request) I wonder what hiccup thinks about his dad burning holes into the back of the girl he has a crush on's head. Maybe Hiccup would try to apologize for it afterwards. + the almost-kissing-her thing

Sorry, but I Think I Lost Your Plot pt 21

Pairing: Onesided!Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III x Modern!Fem!Reader

Words: 2,700

Hiccup gets better at this romance thing.

Tags: Time Travel, Reader into Movieverse, Dragons: Defenders of Berk, Fright of Passage, post episode, Hiccup’s POV

<Previous - Next>

The incident with the Flightmare took up a lot of time and energy and after how quickly you’d fled once Thornado had landed back on Berk, he hadn’t seen you much at all, much less had time to talk to you.

He shifted on the short wooden bench, the unsanded grit of its surface and the uneven length of its legs causing it to feel odd and off balance as he shifted over it.

Hiccup glanced past the metal framing holding up an empty, crusted pot over the fire, whose heat was licking at his calves beneath his trousers and flickering against the majority of his torso.

He clutched a small, oblong glass shape as he glared forwards, cool against his skin through the fabric of his tunic, hidden away by his vest, securely stored in a secret pocket he’d sewed in for specifically this purpose.

The bioluminescent algae seemed to have been lost, for the most part.

The others had been a bit shifty around him, in a way that was more shifty than malicious. He had the sinking suspicion that they might’ve caught on to his little crush.

The heavy beating of boot and peg against old wooden floors. It was really ironic that the Chiefs; hut was the only one that hadn’t been burned on the regular. His Dad was very attentive towards his house.

His Dad’s face was set and shoulders hunched, a remnant from earlier when he had been awkwardly tending to his own meal.

Hiccup’s own face was slightly sour. He was still mad at his Dad for… everything.

Both Hiccup and Stoick ignored the sound of clattering dishes in the background.

Stoick grumbled as Hiccup’s expression turned just a bit scowlier, sitting in his large wooden chair which sometimes seemed yet as if it couldn’t hold every bit of him, across the fire pit from Hiccup, who had a bowl in his lap and was sitting in quite the hunched manner, “You like the… Delivery girl.”

“You know her?” Hiccup asked nervously, pulling at his tunic collar.

Stoick shifted, his brown fur cloak spilling over the arms of his chair.

“He has the lass come up here and clean around sometimes!” Gobber said, rifling around in one of the chests lining the wall, the horns of his helmet clattering against mounted shields and other sharp weapons and he turned carelessly, arms wide,

“What?!” Hiccup asked, voice pitch nearly at a screech.

He was scared immediately that you’d seen smoke things you shouldn't've. What had you seen?

Hiccup took a moment to pause and bring his voice down, maybe a bit deeper than it needed to be, even as his heart rate picked up.

“If you want ‘er, Ye need tae sweep her off her feet!” Gobber clapped Hiccup hard on the place shoulder met back, causing Hiccup to stumble forward as the big man swept his other arm outwards.

He grimaced.

He’d already been doing a good amount of sweeping. He doubted anyone would take well to being accosted in the way Gobber described. What did Gobber know about women, anyways?

He should put on his red tunic, though.

Hiccup was very attracted to that idea.

Oh, Gods, he really hoped you hadn’t seen too much.

“...Hey,” Hiccup said, looking at you, as always, basket in hand. A woven one this time, made of long grasses that brushed and scraped along the sides of your skirt.

He was sort of impressed with himself, and the fact that he hadn’t fumbled over anything at all yet.

You weren’t looking him in the eye at all, which meant he had definitely totally completely messed up.

“Hi,” You responded, voice pitched so he could tell you were nearly squeaking.

It only took a few days. That might have been to the effect of all the stuff he’d dumped in it, too.

The Flightmare left tracks, and from what little he could salvage- the spare scale, which was nearly translucent upon detachment, and some slime he picked up from some of the more plant-like dragons, he ended up being able to speed up the growth 

He’d… Nabbed some of Fishlegs’ notes for that. He wouldn’t mind. Hopefully.

Hiccup had lent him Toothless for the day, after all, albeit with more grump than was probably appropriate. 

The dragon seemed alright with it, too, ready to show off his tail, a sparking nadder blue, his replacement after the red one had been ripped back on Fireworm island.

Hiccup palmed the vial in his pocket, “I, ah…”

As an apology, he’d found someone willing to bring in some rose bushes. It took a lot, but it was worth it. For you, that was. He got some others in on it, though of course he never told them why. They didn’t have the bushes yet, but soon.

For the person you were, to him, even if you didn’t get it yet.

And he’d done something else, too.

He was going to try surprising you with it. Or not. 

He was worried he might scare you off.

“Sorry,” He started, “About my Dad. He’s just-Well, he’s…”

You shrugged balefully, “I get it? I’m not-...”

“Right,” Hiccup nodded, “Yeah, okay.”

It was silent for a few long moments.

You were both standing by the bridge out into the forest, the clear ends around it lined by trees, freshly planted.

At this point, the two of you had to have been experts in deciphering stutters and half-spoken words.

He could kill a large dragon and win over Astrid, but he couldn’t talk to you at all. He didn’t have the courage. Or, maybe it wasn’t about courage.

Hiccup wasn’t afraid. He wasn’t shy. 

He did stupid things all the time.

There was just something about you, or maybe something about him, that kept most things from coming out right. That made him just a little bit nervous. 

“I-well, I wanted to say sorry. Would you be fine following me for a bit?”

You paused for a second

“Just… Come on,” He said, somewhat hesitantly. He was sure by then his face was blotchy with flush, “It’s in the woods. Is that…?”

You nodded.

Hiccup held in a sigh of relief, “Alright. Well, then…”

Back in the village, it looked like a few vikings had taken to terraforming Berk, though you had no idea why. 

You weren’t sure where Toothless was. Probably… Off, 

Maybe they were inspired, you had no clue. Something about bushes or brushes or something and house paint.

You nearly tripped over a particularly large, gnarled root as you moved past Hiccup, holding aside a branch with leaves, half expecting to get murdered, or something. That’s what he brought you out into the woods for, right?

This was a particularly dark part of the forest, packed with leaves and moss in a way no spot on Berk had been before the Red Death had been defeated, with all the dragons burning most of everything down. 

It had already been darkening by the time Hiccup had asked you to follow, and though Hiccup had long since ceased to weird you out at all, the thoughts came unbidden.

You took a few steps forwards, shuffling slightly, looking around at the world, washed over with a blue filter, and at the vines crawling up the trees, before you paused, taking notice of a light, bright and gentle and nearly not there glowing against mottled bark.

You looked down, and then your eyes widened slightly.

You weren’t sure how you missed it, but below, there was a pool.

You stared down at it, glowing and dark under the canopy of the leaves above.

“So, what do you think?”

You heard Hiccup asked from behind you, his own boot and prosthetic shuffling against packed, fallen leaves and damp mulch.

Your face felt hot in a tingling, bright way as you stared down into the slowly moving water.

Was this all from the Flightmare?

It was something you might’ve seen in the news in the foreseen future, the same type of glow you’d see lurking inside a glow stick.

“Oh,” You said. You’d heard about it and you were sure all of the glowing algae had been washed out to sea. 

“I was hoping you’d like it,” Hiccup said hesitantly, “Do you?”

Your heart felt like it was on fire too, in the way that it only could when butterflies and bugs and other flighty, flippant nerve things were preening around in your organs.

Maybe Hiccup did like you, after all.

“Wow,” You stumbled forwards a few more feet until you were overlooking a small dirt ledge which had to be at least a yard tall, held together by roots and sticks and other dead plants. 

It overlooked the rest of the pond by a little bit, overseeing edges kept aloft in quite a similar fashion, like one of those deep, neverending kinds of pools made of a beautiful blue with no bottom, toeing the line between dangerous and beautiful that most people would only ever lay eyes on in photos. 

In this moment, perhaps heightened by the mood and atmosphere, everything felt a bit softer. You were sure the light of the pool was glittering back through your eyes, chest light and full of wonder and awe.

You said nothing yet, awkwardly turning so that your back hit the sturdy trunk of a large tree, sliding down slowly and displacing moss until you were sitting down against the uneven, steep packed, large roots of a tree, moss tickling your back through your shirt.

You felt like you might slide down into it if you loosened your legs just a bit from where they kept you steady, braced against moss and dirt. 

Small flecks of dirt tumbled down into the pool under them, hitting ferns and the occasional fungus, mushrooms that looked as if they’d just bud, hinting at a similar glow to the bright light of the pool as toes of your boots played a risky game with the dirt ledge over the pond.

“So... A good apology, all things considered?” He prompted. 

You nearly forgot about Hiccup, still standing by the streeline, which was, admittedly, also very close by the water. 

You brought your knees up to your chin, which you rested on top of your elbows, your cheeks feeling warm as you smiled into them, not in the hot way they had been just a moment before, but with a soft feeling that came from deep in your chest, feeling a lot like a crackling fire in the heart or the smell of a warm cup of cocoa, fluffy white marshmallows floating along the top.

You didn’t look over, but the hairs of your neck, which were standing, and a tickling in the corner of your still focused eye told you Hiccup was watching you. 

You wondered what his expression looked like. Was it fond, or goofy, or blank?

Did he feel anything at all at the sight? 

Had he really done this all for you?

The water rippled and the algae grew brighter as it did. There was a light dusting of blue foam across the surface and if you looked ever so slightly you could spot the occasional speck of something swimming around in the water, though you were sure it was too small to be a fish.

A sea monkey? A bug? A glowing speck?

You were certain it was not safe to swim in, but it was unbelievably gorgeous, framed by dipping and swaying ferns in the near complete darkness.

“Yeah,” You said mumbling into your elbow, noticing in your periphery as Hiccup moved forwards to stand by your side, “Yeah, I think so.”

You felt the hesitant dusting of a few fingers against your shoulder before they disappeared, twitching away and displacing the air by your ears, the feel of them there and gone causing all the hairs along your arm and neck to stand on end.

You found yourself tilting your head away from the touch, hiding the bashful flush of your face as Hiccup spoke again, “I also… I got you something else, too.”

You delicately took what was offered by a careful hand and held up the vial, smooth, clean and cool between your fingertips, a liquid inside glowing in a similar fashion to the pool in front of you and the mystical blue-washed world around.

Hiccup definitely wasn’t the type of guy to be able to keep something so clean- everything he had -books, blankets, papers, the occasional crafter compass for trade- they were all smudged by soot or the oil of skin and at the very least slightly folded in corners.

Against all odds, though, there it was. He must’ve taken great care with it.

You looked up at him.

You were sure you’d imagined it, because things like that didn’t happen in reality, and definitely not on the faces turned cartoon and whimsy to real and solid and in full, real life, completely discernable human graphic definition, but that glowing, sparkly feeling you were certain he clouds see plain as day- you felt fresh, believing for just a moment you could see it in his eyes too.

Hiccup’s head was in the clouds, his cheeks buzzing in a pleasant way, traveling up to his ears in a way that almost made him want to rub them, warm and heady and tingling in a way that was slightly ticklish.

His shoulder brushed against yours, your pinky fingers brushing together, slightly hooked, mimicking earlier when his fingers teased your palm in the imitation of a hold as the two of you walked back from the woods.

“Is it fine if we…” Your fingers came together again, the two of you turning to each other once the sound of boots and peg against wood turned into the softer, more muffled sound of weights padding against dirt.

Hiccup didn’t know he had it in him, but it was less an action made by choice and more led by an automatic zone, a feeling for what came next brought on by feeling and comfortability influenced by the ambiance, though that wasn’t to say he himself felt casual about it at all. 

Your hands were slightly shaky.

His heart was rocketing the whole time, blood pumping and beating in his eardrums.

“Separate?” Hiccup finished as you glanced off towards the darkened village, resisting the urge to shiver as a cool breeze blew by, fit to match the now dark sky, coming in from the side of him that faced the woods. 

On the other, closer to his back he noticed a very faint yellow light, warm and emanating from where he suspected the stairs to the hall lay, within which the larger half of Berk was most likely pulling together their nightly meal.

“You’ll be… fine?” He asked, breath nearly stuttering as the two of you tilted his head forwards, your foreheads so close they were nearly touching, “You can still- You can have my coat, still.”

“It’s okay,” You said, the focus of your eyes flickering from down by your hands to his face, before your hands separated.

“Thanks,” You said simply, before turning and walking forwards a few feet, a cool breeze causing your skirt to wave.

You glanced back as you left, unsure as if you were subconsciously asking if it was okay for you to leave.

Hiccup thought his legs might give out.

The night breeze was extra cold on Hiccup’s hands and back as he watched you go, though the warm, glowing feeling in his chest remained, moving down into the village, disappearing into the dark maze of alleys and open halls.

He was a night owl, as most of Berk tended to be after years of nightly raids. 

He wouldn’t be sleeping. 

He could work on blueprints for the sewage system. That was a whole project in and of itself. But with the tunnels below the village and all the dragon power they had in Berk, it might’ve just been doable. 

But as he stared out into the still quiet of the empty village, he realized he’d probably just be thinking about you instead.

[local-diavolo-anon]

For fun i am going to give some infos on the ✨️ domestic mermen aus ✨️ i want to draw for mermay

Because why not

Also this is a "the celestial boys x y/n" kind of au

Moon is an halfmoon blue betta fish

Sun is an orange and yellow fancy goldfish

And Eclipse (he is a thing) is a common pleco

The story goes that because of an error of a new employee in a fish shop, Moon and Sun ended up in the same tank

Moon instantly tried to fight sun necause who the crap are you and why are you in my home

Sun, being a fancy goldfish, is just a dorky, goofy guy and didn't really got that Moon was trying to throw hands, and tried to befriend him

It kind of worked, surprisingly even to Moon, who realized this new fish was akin to a golden retriever and most definitely not there to fight

Adoption time.png because how have you survived in your own (Moon fully ignored Sun has ever only been around to similarly dorky and goofy fancy goldfishes before who had no fighting instinct whatsoever)

By the time anybody noticed a fancy goldfish was missing from their tank, Moon refused to have anybody take Sun from him

Like, he bit the employees and tried to hide Sun in the rocks (he got l Sun stuck a couple of times as well), and to avoid either of them being hurt, they were labelled as "Sold as a Pair"

Later Sun also tried to whoo Moon, which also worked

This is where Y/N comes into play

They walked in searching for a new betta and found the two clowns right there

Took them both home because why not, their home tank can fit both of them, even if some minor accomodations have to be done

Despite how diffident Moon was at first, with some time he warms up to the dry giant that occasionally brings them food and pets them

No warm up needed for Sun who instantly decided the pets were the best thing ever

Y/N really fucking loves their fishes because despite Moon biting them at every feeding time, they are still extremely cute and funny

At first Y/N thought Moon was bullying Sun or something and were worried, but Sun enjoys being spun around the tank so there is that

Moon also hides in the algae forest and Sun tried to do the same, promptly getting bapped in the face by Moon each time in a whack the mole kind of show

Later Y/N got then two separate tanks connected by a tube so each of them got their own spaces and habitats

Moon fits in the tube, Sun is too chonky and can't get in there, this is on purpose so he doesn't end up stuck in the many decorations Moon's tank has

This is where Y/N also got Ecplise

He lives in both tanks and being a Pleco, cleans around the glass

Neither Sun or Moon are that friends with him because he is a weirdo and licks the rocks

He ain't evil or anything, he is just weird

and being way bigger than either of them, Moon never tried to throw hands only once and failed because Eclipse was just that big

[stormwatersolutionsgroup]

Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Retention Pond with Proper Care

Retention ponds are essential tools in stormwater management, designed to control runoff, reduce flooding, and improve water quality. However, like any infrastructure, these ponds require proper care and maintenance to function effectively and last for years.

Neglecting their upkeep can lead to costly repairs, environmental damage, and reduced efficiency. Here’s how to maximize the lifespan of your retention pond through proper care and maintenance.

The Importance of Retention Pond Maintenance

Retention ponds are crucial in collecting and storing stormwater runoff from residential, commercial, and industrial areas. They help slow water flow, trap pollutants, and protect nearby ecosystems. Without regular maintenance, sediment buildup, overgrown vegetation, and debris accumulation can compromise the pond’s efficiency, reducing its capacity to handle heavy rainfall and increasing the risk of flooding.

By prioritizing proper care, you can extend the lifespan of your retention pond, ensuring it continues to serve its purpose effectively while maintaining compliance with local regulations.

Essential Maintenance Practices for Retention Ponds

1. Sediment Removal Over time, sediment accumulates at the bottom of retention ponds, reducing their water storage capacity. Periodic sediment removal ensures the pond retains its ability to manage stormwater effectively.

2. Vegetation Management Managing plant growth around and within the pond is essential. While some vegetation is beneficial for stabilizing soil and filtering pollutants, excessive growth can block water flow, damage structures, and create maintenance challenges.

3. Debris Cleaning Leaves, trash, and other debris can clog inlets, outlets, and other critical structures. Regular cleaning prevents blockages and ensures smooth water movement.

4. Bank Stabilization Erosion of the pond’s banks can compromise its structural integrity and contribute to sedimentation. Stabilizing the banks with riprap, natural vegetation, or other techniques helps prevent erosion and maintains the pond’s shape.

5. Outlet Structure Maintenance The outlet structure is vital for regulating water levels and flow. Regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs keep this component functioning properly and prevent overflow or stagnation.

Signs Your Retention Pond Needs Attention

Proper maintenance begins with recognizing when your retention pond needs care. Here are some signs to watch for:

Reduced Water Capacity: If the pond consistently overflows during heavy rains, sediment buildup may be limiting its capacity.

Visible Erosion: Eroded banks or shoreline areas indicate a need for stabilization efforts.

Excessive Vegetation or Algae Growth: Overgrowth or algal blooms can signal nutrient imbalances or lack of maintenance.

Clogged Inlets or Outlets: Blockages reduce water flow and can lead to flooding.

Unpleasant Odors: Stagnant water may indicate poor circulation or excessive debris.

The Role of Professional Services in Pond Care

While some basic maintenance tasks can be handled by property owners, professional services are often necessary to address complex issues. Experts have the tools and knowledge to provide:

Comprehensive Inspections: Identifying hidden problems like leaks, structural damage, or advanced sedimentation.

Specialized Cleaning and Repairs: Restoring the pond’s capacity and efficiency.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring your retention pond meets local and federal stormwater management requirements.

Long-Term Benefits of Proper Retention Pond Care

Investing in regular maintenance and proper care offers numerous benefits:

Enhanced Flood Protection: A well-maintained retention pond effectively manages stormwater runoff, reducing the risk of flooding.

Improved Water Quality: Regular cleaning and sediment removal filter pollutants, keeping water sources clean and safe.

Cost Savings: Preventive maintenance minimizes the need for costly repairs or system replacements.

Environmental Protection: Healthy retention ponds support local ecosystems by providing clean water and a stable habitat for plants and animals.

Aesthetic Appeal: Well-kept ponds enhance the beauty of residential and commercial properties.

How to Start Caring for Your Retention Pond

If you’re unsure where to start, consider these steps:

Schedule Regular Inspections: Frequent inspections can catch potential problems early.

Develop a Maintenance Plan: Create a schedule for sediment removal, vegetation management, and debris cleaning.

Partner with Professionals: Work with stormwater management experts to ensure comprehensive care.

Conclusion

Proper care is essential to maximizing the lifespan of your retention pond. By prioritizing maintenance, addressing issues promptly, and seeking professional support when needed, you can ensure your pond continues to perform its vital role in stormwater management.

For expert retention pond services, trust Stormwater Solutions Group, LLC. Our team specializes in comprehensive pond care to keep your system functional, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Please contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help protect your property.

[raintailed]

Thinkin about those pipe-cleaning slugs that Moon talks about...

The pipe-cleaner slugs were essentially a "first draft" for piperats and are, in a way, their predecessors.

They were created very early on in the history of bio-engineering. At the time there wasn't advanced simulation technology like what iterators have, so the only real way to test a draft for a purposed organism was to create the organisms and study them.

The pipe-cleaner slugs worked well for clearing biofilm from the insides of pipes, but the problem is that pipe-cleaning requires more than just scraping off layers of microorganisms. The slugs were unsuitable for addressing things like roots growing into pipes, objects lodged inside pipes, etc. They also weren't too good at navigating and reproduced quickly, resulting in the slugs colonizing pipes and needing to be cleaned out themselves!

And so, the pipe-cleaner slug plans were redesigned into a completely new creature, which was more versatile and far more intelligent: piperats.

The original draft for pipe-cleaner slugs weren't completely scrapped, however. The blueprints were later refined into a new species: snails. The snails are designed to not only eat algae/biofilms/lichen, but also barnacle-like organisms and rock/metal debris. Snails' shells repurpose the calcium and metals from their diet. Also, snails have remained largely unchanged since they were created, although there are some new species that have evolved since then.

Tldr: the pipe-cleaner slugs were a first draft for piperats. The original blueprints were later reworked into snails.

[darkness-and-lavender]

Cycle 4- A Loser Doesn’t Need An Encore

Knelt upon a well-worn, grey wool mat on the cold stone floor and welding a few metal pieces to her friend’s moped was Veronika. Her tired faint green eyes behind her amber goggles were locked in focus, oblivious to her cluttered basement room of the castle and all goings on beyond its aged grey brick walls.  

 The majority of the room’s light came from Veronika’s goggles and the sparks that shot every which way from her torch. The four semi-circle windows atop the walls had cracked plastic blinds before them that let in minute daylight. Like everything else in the room, the sun bleached, blue blinds had collected many layers of dust and hadn’t seen a cleaning since before the war.

 Many mechanical projects Veronika had worked on and other projects she planned to surely continue surrounded her workspace, each covered in a dusty green tarp. Tools serving various purposes were scattered across her room’s barely visible floor and unmade bed. Dishes with unfinished meals caked upon them coated her floor as well. If not for Veronika’s slithering companion; a tree cobra named Chania, then the room would have surely fallen victim to a rodent infestation.

 Veronika pulled a dirty rag from the side pocket of her forest green leather pants with her free hand and used it to wipe the sweat beads that accumulated atop her pale forehead. Rogue strands of her unkempt, sunrise orange hair had come free from her frizzled mess of a ponytail and stuck to the sides of her freckled face.

 The distraction of her hair caused her to take her eyes off her work for the first time in hours. She gazed upon the wooden shelves on her walls, fully stocked with many trophies and awards she earned in the past, now unceremoniously left to be claimed by dust and webs of long deceased spiders.

 She sighed at the sight and did the best to advert her eyes for if she did not, a tidal wave of memories of times no longer and never would be again would crush her and what little happiness remained inside her.

 Veronika resumed her work, though the memories of the past she couldn’t shake. The times four years ago when she knew little of the Aethren Empire and the continent of Eun as a whole. When her Chief father was a brave, selfless leader and loved his family dearly. When her mother didn’t have to do everything herself and wasn’t obsessed with war. When her older brother Clyde was himself and didn’t put up a false persona. Even if his true self was a little on the mad side, she loved him nonetheless.

 Her Isle home of Harrow had become a strange land full of new and foreign buildings and people from the Empire, replacing those and everything else that was lost.

 Tears had begun to collect at the bottom of her goggles, she hadn’t noticed she’d been crying.

 A warm, familiar sensation of slithering scales she felt against her backside, a second later Chania stuck her little head out the thick, oversized sleeve of Veronika’s algae green, striped turtleneck. Her little golden serpent eyes looked up at her owner in concern.

 Veronika clicked off her blowtorch and turned her attention to her dear snake. 

 “Oh Chania, sometimes I feel it’s only you who gets me…” Veronika gingerly stroked her head with a finger. The light from her goggles lit up the deep green, gold and black scales upon Chania’s head.

 Chania’s extended herself into the touch, her night black, forked tongue tasting the room’s stagnant air.

 Veronika smiled weakly at her. “Maybe you’re right, maybe I could use a break”.

 She pulled her goggles down to her neck, removed her leather mechanic gloves and tossed them on top a pile of dirty laundry not far from her. Chania crawled out her sleeve and burrowed into the pile.

 Veronika had always found it unique that Chania preferred burrowing herself instead of slithering all over her shelves. Tree Cobras were arboreal creatures after all.

 Carefully, Veronika rested her head against the laundry to not disturb Chania and retrieved her phone from her pants pocket. The artificial light given off by the screen caused her to squint.

 A few unread messages from her mother and Clyde flashed on the screen, her undivided attention on her work must have made her unaware when the phone buzzed. It was far from the first time she was oblivious to her phone and her friends and family had gotten familiar to her tardiness at responding.        

Sent 2 hours ago

Mom: Hey Roni, going to Rain’s

Sent 2 hours ago

Mom: Feel free to drop in if you want. I’m sure Suvi can use the company.

 Oh, right, something had happened with Suvi. Veronika remembered Clyde had spoken of something about it to her earlier before he went out, but now she couldn’t by the life of her recall what was said.

 She decided to not reply to her mother, seeing how the texts were already two hours old.

 …And totally not because she couldn’t handle knowing more about the reality outside of her bedroom.

 Veronika clicked the next message, sent by her brother.

Sent 26 minutes ago

Clyde: hey, heading to donnes to pick you up supper for i am certain youve not eaten

Sent 23 minutes ago

Clyde: i assume you’re at home?

 Veronika quickly replied

Veronika: yes! im sorry for keeping you waiting! thank you! <3

 Clyde was too nice to her. She felt like she was deep in his debt already for every meal he bought, for every part he retrieved for her for her projects and for all the times he’s stood up for her towards their father who only seemed to notice her when he needed someone to poke fun at.   

 Clyde’s constant reminders to her not to sweat the petty things and to not pet the sweaty things had never helped lessen the guilt.

 She snapped her phone shut and placed it beside her. Her eyes had become heavier with fatigue. Perhaps she could sneak in a swift nap before her brother’s arrival.

 Veronika turned on her side and let herself fall into slumber.

___

 Clonk! Clonk! Clonk!

 Veronika’s eyes darted opened from the sound that torn her from her sleep.

 “Y-Yes? Clyde, is that you?”

 “Indeed it is” She heard her brother’s deep voice from behind the door. It was honestly his most masculine feature.

 She removed the sleeping Chania that she just now noticed upon her stomach and put her onto the laundry pile before she rose to her feet.

 “Come in! It’s unlocked!”

 Clyde entered the room, a white plastic bag with the Donnes logo in each hand.

 Wow did he look a mess! All the black makeup that he spent at least thirty minutes every morning applying with great precision had turned to dark rivers upon his cheeks and chin. His hair was a frizzled disaster, but still nowhere as bad as hers.

 The heavy scent of whiskey that waft off his figure didn’t surprise Veronika whatsoever, nor did it bother her. She knew about his alcoholic immunity.

 Clyde placed a bag upon the nearest table that wasn’t entirely cluttered.

 “They really didn’t have a lot in stock this time of night, at least not in the lines of healthy eats.”

 Veronika peered into the bag on the table. In it there was a medium sized Styrofoam container, labelled as Deep fried haggis sticks with chips & mild Gajahian spiced sauce. Next to it was a half-litre bottle of orange soda and two deep fried peanut butter and chocolate bars in semi-transparent parchment paper, one of the guiltiest of all her pleasures.

 She returned her gaze to her brother 

 “Thank you again for all of this…”

 Her eyes drifted towards the bag that remained in Clyde’s hand, it contained only a six pack of stout.

 “Did you already eat, Clyde?”

 Clyde shook his head.

 “’Haven’t had the appetite. It was another one of those meetings.”

 “Ahh… What exactly happened?” She glanced at the floor, feeling anxious she even had to ask something she should have already known.

 Clyde sighed, his expression had fallen to melancholy. Veronika attempted to inform him he did not need to say anything if it bothered him, but he spoke first.

 “You remember Sean, right? A close friend to Suvi, ‘had been here a few times dropping off supplies under father’s nose.”

 She couldn’t honestly recall him, but remained silent.

 Clyde continued “He was murdered in some sick act plotted by the occupation. Suvi was arrested too, but Kuunya apparently killed a few soldiers to free her”

 She swore she saw a rumour of a smile upon his face after the last sentence.

 “So again, father dragged me to another meeting where Olivius and his bellend cronies shifted all responsibilities of Sean’s murder off of themselves. Same song, different verse, as always.”

 Veronika felt she shouldn’t have asked. No matter how bad the situation in Harrow was, it seemed to always find a way to worsen. She would have lost her appetite too if she hadn’t gone all day without eating.

 “A-Are Suvi and Kuunya alright, at least?”

 Clyde nodded “Physically. Olivius plans to trial them both. If Rain and Mum have any say in that, then I strongly doubt it’ll happen anytime soon.”

 She cupped her face in her hands, a sign to Clyde that she wanted to hear no more. Clyde approached her and placed a hand softly upon her shoulder. She would lean into him.

 “D-Do you think everything will soon reach the tipping point? Mum grows angrier every night, Rain will too after what’s all happened, and Dad is…”

 “At an Imperial brothel, again.” Clyde interrupted, wiping a tear from Veronika’s eye.

 Veronika let out a muffled groan. She knew that would do the opposite to quell her mother’s rage.       

 “I however, would like to believe we’ve approached the tipping point. None of us can live any longer under this occupation.”

 That was not the answer Veronika wanted to hear but should have expected. She did not want any more conflict. She couldn’t bear to see another familiar face buried. She felt herself grow faint and Clyde noticed it too. He sat her down gingerly at the table.

 “I’ll leave you to your supper. You’ll be okay though, right?”

 Veronika nodded slowly and took a sip from her soda.        

 Clyde ventured back towards the door and glanced back to her one last time.

 “Tha gaol agam ort, a phiuthar.”

 Veronika smiled faintly and with that, he exited.

___

 It had been nearly an hour since Veronika had begun her meal. She had always been a slow eater no matter how hungry she was. Chania rested at the other end of the table, her three foot long body comfortably coiled. Veronika fed her earlier in the day so she knew she wasn’t hungry.

 Veronika leaned back in her chair, her eyes stared blankly at the wooden beams in her ceiling. She had been deep within her thoughts, what Clyde had told her about her pseudo-siblings, about Sean and about the tipping point being reached repeated like a broken record in her mind.         

 “Even if Harrow’s entire population rebelled against the Empire would it be enough? How long would we be able to hold out for? Would we have any allies? Would any of us survive?”

 Would the project she had been working on in the garage under her room in secret from her family even amount to anything at this point? Would it even help if an uprising occurred?

 She melted off her chair onto the floor, her expression heavy with anxiety.

 “Chania, did I do it again? Did I start another project just to have it inevitably blow up in my face? Am I forever an eejit?”

 Chania slithered off the table and crawled up to Veronika’s side. She tilted her little snakey head in question.

 Veronika turned her head to face her “You can’t fly a jet, can you girl?”

 To this, Chania just flicked her tongue.

 “I guess that makes two of us” Veronika sighed and crawled over to where she had been adding the finishing touches to Kuunya’s moped.

 She reequipped her goggles and gloves, grabbed a can of black spray paint and continued her work on the moped. Perhaps it wouldn’t hurt to stay in blissful ignorance for a little while longer. 

End Cycle 4

[cl0ckworkpuppet]

ranking things the zoo guests do/say/ask on a regular basis

for context, i work at a zoo, and people are fucking insane

"can we pet them?": 3/10. no, you can't. the signs say you can't. but I commend you for asking. If you ask after you've already pet one, though, -8/10. do better.

"i think there's a nursery rhyme about the kookaburra!": 5/10. cool trivia fact! if you actually start singing it, though, 1/10. cool you actually know it, but please stop

"garfunkel, huh? where's simon?": -10000/10. You Suck. I hate when people ask me this and I hate them personally. Because of this job I now have a vendetta against Simon and Garfunkel.

(starts playing kookaburra noises on their phone speaker): 2/10. clever, but annoying. also, doesn't work if you're trying to get them to make noise. they only laugh when no one is watching them.

"well, one of 'em over there let me pet 'em just fine!": -6/10. you did not have to tell me you did that. and just by that description, i know it was garfunkel, who is usually resting because He Is Overheated. animals laying down is not an open invitation to come pet them.

"i was just taking pictures!": 0/10. you can take pictures from the designated guest path. Stay On It.

"can we pet the swans?": just for this question specifically, -16/10. are you fucking kidding me? can you pet the swans? ask me that question again but slowly.

"garfunkel?? they need to get some spaghetti, cuz that's not quite italian enough!": 10000/10. i've only ever heard this once, and it was today from a 13 year old, but I genuinely had to stop myself from bursting out laughing on the job

"are the emus friendly?": 4/10. Australia lost a war to them for a reason.

"why aren't the animals in cages?": -5/10. first of all, we don't cage animals, we keep them in habitats. second of all, this is the Australia Walkabout. Where you Walk About with the Australian animals. You came in here for that exact purpose.

"i don't like birds": -7/10. not because you're afraid, birds are a totally normal thing to dislike. i'm just baffled why you came into an enclosure full of many many free roaming birds if you are afraid of them

"why is the swan pond so dirty?": 1/10. first of all, that is algae, and in small amounts it's not bad at all. it's pretty natural, especially for a giant pond directly in the sun. but more importantly, it is hundreds of gallons, and we cannot put chlorine in it, and it is not feasible to clean every day. we do clean it multiple times a week, but it gets especially bad after storms or heavy rain

"will the budgies poop on me?": 7/10. valid concern, actually. budgies shit every 10-15 minutes. maybe. i've had it happen plenty of times before to guests and especially myself. to answer their question, you'll only get pooped on if you stand directly under them. they don't shit while flying so ur good

"can my child ride the [emu/wallaby/giraffe]?": -284/10. i don't know what kind of cocaine you need to be on to ask me this question seriously, or especially to expect the answer to be yes, but even as a joke this question isn't funny. if i had a nickel for every time i was asked this question, i'd have a quarter

"will the giraffes bite me if i feed them?": 8/10. no, they physically can't. nor do they want to. but it's a valid question; they're pretty big animals to be feeding so carelessly. you'll probably get licked though

(does an australian accent): just because it barely ever happens, 8/10. you'd think it'd happen more often, but no. i've only ever got it a couple times. i rank it so high because hearing these guys try and fail to do an accent makes me laugh so hard

"are you a farmer?": 9999/10. little kids ask me this question when they see my safari hat. makes my day every time.

"are these kangaroos?": 5/10. on one hand, fine. not everyone knows the difference between kangaroos and wallabies. since wallabies are like a quarter of the size of roos, they're often mistakenly called baby kangaroos. plus they're in the same family and look very similar. on the other hand, do you honestly think we'd be stupid enough to put actual fucking kangaroos in with guests walking around freely without an enclosure? be for real

"do these wallabies have pouches?": 3/10. fine question, but these guys have comically large balls

"is that wallaby dead?": 4/10. no, that's garfunkel. he sleeps all the time. i promise he's ok.

"can we pet the budgies?": 2/10. you're welcome to try, but even i can't get them on a seed stick let alone touch them

"can we grab the budgies out of the air?": -999999999/10. Explode.

"don't you hate how the animals are treated in zoos?": -999999/10. you are not the PETA warrior you think you are. when executed properly, they can be really good for the animals inside of them. natural does not necessarily mean good, nor does unnatural necessarily mean bad. that's called a Logical Fallacy. some of these animals Cannot Be Released. please do any amount of research on zoos and aquariums that are not seaworld or the once in a while shitshows

"what year do you graduate high school?": -infinity/10. i am in College.

"when i was younger, budgie feeding was one dollar each, not two!": -18/10. that was in 1943, grandma. plus i'm just some guy. what do you want me to do about that?

"can i have a seed stick for free?": if you're an adult, -10/10. No. if you're a child, 10/10. No (wink and passes under table).

"can you break a hundred?": -100/10. No.

"i like your hat": 10/10. thank you! i like yours too!

"that's a cool pin you have!": 10000/10. my pins are all pronouns and trans flags. i love you.

(sees me cleaning the budgie aviary) (looks at their kid) "See that man in there? If you don't behave, I'll force you to have his job.": -infinity plus one/10. First of all, fuck you for shitting on janitorial positions. I'm sure you would prefer to not step in bird shit. Second of all, I'm not a janitor. Third of all, fuck you for getting your child to behave using fear tactics and threats. Fourth of all, I love my job. I tell these kids and parents straight up to their face that I do. That this isn't everything I have to do in my job. Some parts might be dirty, but that's okay, and no one's job is ever something to be laughed at. One kid told their parent after I told them everything I get to do in my job that they actually want my job when they grow up. That parent was furious. Good. Fuck you, Karen, for shitting on workers that only help make your experience more enjoyable. I've only gotten this three times, thank god, but holy shit. The entitlement of these people is fucking insane

anyway i might think of more later

[spookyshipperfics]

Unprofessional

Find it: a03 / Fandom: The X-Files / Rating: Explicit

Part of the Do You Like Scary Movies? series

Tagging @today-in-fic

What is it About? Scully isn't happy when a case sends them to a New Orleans swamp. She's even less thrilled when a local tour guide gets the hots for Mulder and invites him to dinner.

Read a Sample: A woman’s arm had been discovered on the outskirts of a campground. Scully suggested an alligator attack; Mulder rambled about folkloric legends. She ordered the nearby swamp to be dredged while Mulder sought the expertise of a local tour guide with a pretty face and a southern twang. Marybeth ran a haunted boat tour, and Scully suffered through eye-rolling tales. Somehow a man who haunted the swamps and killed anyone unlucky enough to enter his vague supernatural territory became their top suspect. When Marybeth mentioned an old, spooky cabin, Scully’s eyes narrowed. Mulder’s widened.

Mulder was her constant opposite. What fascinated him only annoyed her. What sent him barreling ahead had her gripping a crumbling surface. In some twisted way, it worked for them—or it usually did. Things got messy when someone else stepped into their universe, sending their tight, little world tipping on its axis. Scully watched Marybeth touch Mulder’s arm, fingers closing around his forearm as they hunched over a map. It was Dr. Berenbaum all over again. The laughing. The looks. Suddenly Bambi didn’t seem like such a ridiculous name.

“We should discuss this over dinner and drinks later,” Marybeth whispered to her partner. Scully stormed out before she heard Mulder’s response.

She hadn’t even wanted to come to Louisianna, never mind a New Orleans forest where trees gave way to algae-covered swamps, and reeds grew as tall as her disdain. Yet, she’d let Mulder drag her. Pull her. Verbally coerce with a boyish smile and puppy dog eyes.

She let it happen again after lunch. Her previous mistake repeated as he led her from the campground, where the trails were overgrown and wild.

“Marybeth says there is a cabin out this way, Scully.”

She could hardly suppress her eye roll, barely bit her tongue. Marybeth had gone home. These neglected trails were apparently no place for pretty tour guides. Scully marched ahead, her heels sinking into the marshy ground. She tried to ignore Mulder’s purposeful lagging the same way she attempted to quell the twisting sensation in her heart.

We should discuss this over dinner and drinks later.

The heat was oppressive. The smell was earthy. She couldn’t hear herself think over the unrelenting orchestra of cicadas. They weren’t dressed for this. Dry-cleaned slacks and silk blouses were laughably unsuitable. She whipped around to find Mulder, suit jack thrown across his shoulder and shirt unbuttoned too low. Scully felt as tight and taut as a rubber band. His pushed-up sleeves revealed toned forearms, and when she thought about Marybeth touching him there, she finally snapped.

“This is pointless, Mulder. We’re getting too far from the crime scene.” She pointed in the direction they’d come. Somewhere, not far, police officers were doing real work. Forensics was sweeping the area, yellow crime scene tape creating a boundary that did not account for supernatural meddling.

“You want to go back?”

Yes, she wanted to go back. She also wanted to scream. “If legend is to be believed, your ghost cabin is ten miles north of here.”

“But Marybeth said—”

Scully scoffed, couldn’t help it. “Mulder, that woman is either mistaken or misleading you.”

“Misleading me? For the purpose of what?”

“Maybe so she has something to discuss over dinner and drinks.” The ending of her sentence was sharp like a razor blade, intended to wound even if she had no real reason to draw blood. They were just partners. He owed her nothing. “What you do on your own time is no business of mine, but when you bring me into it, it becomes unprofessional.”

“This isn’t about Marybeth; this is about the case. So, I think it’s you who is mistaken.”

“Am I, Mulder?” She tossed her hands out to the side. “Because here I am, standing in the middle of some swamp looking for a ghost after watching you and Marybeth batting eyelashes at each other all morning. Like I said, it’s unprofessional.”

“Unprofessional,” he huffed. “You’re the one who’s been borderline rude since we got here.”

She’d been caught. Defeated. Her envy was on full display. Mulder grabbed her shoulder, rooting her in place before she could run.

“What’s going on?”

His arm dropped, but his voice was like a chain, his question a shackle. Her feet felt as heavy as her pounding heart.

“It’s nothing,” she insisted.

“Come on, Scully. What is it?”

His iron hold burnt her skin. The invisible chain between them clanged and rattled. She wanted to pull him closer but knew she couldn’t. The FBI forbade it. Her own stupid heart forbade it, too. “It’s nothing,” she repeated, this time louder.

“You’re lying.”

Suddenly, she hoped this ghost would appear, that he’d yank her into the water and far away from Mulder’s prying eyes. His gaze pierced her shell. It grated and tore at her cold exterior.

Her fists clenched in defiance as he took a step closer. “Why are you lying to me, Scully? What’s going on?”

“I’m jealous,” she practically yelled. Her cheeks burned, and her skin burst into flames. She couldn’t hold his stare any longer. It’s why she didn’t realize he’d approached until he was already there.

The tilt of her head was met by the crash of his mouth. It wasn’t gentle. It wasn’t sweet. And when he pulled back to gauge her reaction, she closed the distance. Her mouth found his again, her tongue making up for all the complicated, messy feelings she couldn’t say out loud.

Find the rest on a03

[how-to-clean-water-tank]

How To Clean Water Tank

Introduction:

Clean water tanks is important yet we should often keep on maintaining the water and we should ensure the quality of water is suitable for drinking water and daily purposes . In this comprehensive guide let us discuss about What is water tank cleaning , its essential and its importance.

What Is Water Tank Cleaning service?

It refers of hiring the professionals who cleans water tanks bythe process of removing mud, dirt, sediments, algae, bacteria everything from water storage tanks. These tanks can be found in residential buildings, commercial buildings, factories, So it is essential to ensure the water they store which remains pure and safe for consumption.

Why Is Water Tank Cleaning Important?

1 Water Quality:-

Over the period of time without cleaning the tanks , the water stored in it will be getting contaminated with mud, dirt, bacteria, etc. Which in return makes the water quality poor and makes the drinking water foul taste

2. Health Concerns:-

Waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid can be caused by consuming contaminated water which has algae , bacteria etc. Well, Regular cleaning helps to prevent these health risks.

3. Efficient Water Flow:=-

Clean tanks ensure efficient water flow and adequate pressure in pipelines, preventing plumbing issues and water wastage.

4. Tank Longevity:-

Regular maintenance, including cleaning, can extend the lifespan of water tanks, saving you money on repairs and replacements.

What is Water Tank Cleaning Process:

The process of cleaning a water tank involves the following steps:

1. Draining: The tank is emptied of all water to start access the cleaning process

2. Scrubbing: The side walls of the tank are scrubbed to remove dirt. This can be done manually or with the help of scrubber.

3. Disinfection: After cleaning, the net step is to disinfectant the tank to kill the remaining bacteria or algae. This is usually done using correct chlorine levels or other chemical disinfections.

4. Rinsing: The tank is thoroughly rinsed to remove any traces of cleaning agents or disinfectants.

5. Refilling: Finally, the tank is refilled with clean water.

What is Water Tank Cleaning machine:

The machines used in cleaning water are

Submersible Pump

Pressure Washer

Scrubber

Vacuum Cleaner

UV light

Frequency of Water Tank Cleaning:

The frequency of cleaning your water tank depends on several factors like the capacity of the tank, the quality of the water source,. In general, residential tanks should be cleaned at least once a year, while commercial and industrial tanks may require more often cleaning.

How to clean water tank at home easily:

Empty the water tank

hard brush the side walls of the tank

take out all the dirt from the tank with vacuum cleaner

wash the tank with the clean water

leave it to dry

How to clean water tank without removing water:

Add vinegar to the water which helps to remove the algae and bacteria.

Professional vs. DIY Cleaning:

While some homeowners attempt to clean their water tanks themselves, Which is quiet risky ,it's often safer and more effective to hire professionals. Professional cleaning services have the expertise, equipment, and materials necessary to ensure a safely dispose of liquid waste and unclean water by giving proper water treatment

Conclusion:

In summary, cleaning of water tank is an essential process that ensures the quality, safety, and efficiency of your water tank. Regular cleaning helps maintain clean and healthy water, prevents waterborne diseases, and to increase the lifespan of your water storage tank. Whether you have a small residential tank or a large industrial one, prioritizing cleaning of water tank is a responsible choice that benefits both your health and the environment.

For professional cleaning services in Bengaluru, you can get a free Quote on B Tank Cleaning Services. We offer modern solutions to keep your water tanks clean and your water supply safe. Don't hesitate to contact us for expert assistance in maintaining a healthy water supply for your home or business.

[cristal-night]

vamos a conocer un poco más acerca de Atlas! como ya sabrán atlas es el dueño de la tienda de accesorios que queda en la plaza principal de shadowland, el es conocido por ser un chico muy relajado, el no suele enojarse o preocuparse por cosas innecesarias, se podría decir que vive a su propio ritmo, también es conocido por ser un poco perezoso, él no hará algo si no está motivado a hacerlo, su comida favorita son las algas, usualmente suele acompañarlas con un poco de arroz frito la gran mayoría de accesorios que ves su tienda son hechas a mano por él, hay algunas veces en que los habitantes de shadowlan le regalan a atlas accesorios ya no usa, ya sea por que están malos o simplemente ya no les gustan, atlas va a limpiar, reparar y vender estos accesorios por un precio menor, a veces su ritmo de trabajo puede ser un poco lento, otras veces será rápido, eso dependerá de qué tan motivado este atlas como tal no tiene una casa, se podría decir que es una persona sin hogar, normalmente suele vivir en carpas, para ser más específicos, el posee tres carpas, una donde vende sus accesorios, otra donde los hace y otra en donde duerme y pasa su tiempo libre (aunque es bien conocido que algunas veces atlas suele tomar siestas en sus otras dos carpas) atlas tiene una pequeña obsesión con la limpieza, detesta la suciedad, su obsesión por limpiar es lo único que puede derrotar su pereza, es por esto que el suele ser voluntario en una empresa que se encarga de limpiar los espacios públicos de shadowland, si el llega a ver a una persona ensuciar el espacio público a propósito, él le tirara un baldado de agua a esa persona y mejor ni te cuento lo que le pasaría a alguien si se atreven a ensuciar sus carpas pese a ser un poco perezoso, el normalmente suele ayudar a sus vecinos en caso de necesitar algún tipo de ayuda, como por ejemplo reparar cosas, hacer algún tipo de instalación o llevar cosas como bolsas etc, normalmente el es el que ofrece la ayuda (English) Let's get to know a little more about Atlas! As you already know, Atlas is the owner of the accessories store that is in the main square of Shadowland, he is known for being a very relaxed boy, he doesn't usually get angry or worry about unnecessary things, it could be said that he lives at his own pace , he is also known for being a bit lazy, he won't do something if he's not motivated to do it, his favorite food is seaweed, usually accompanied by some fried rice the vast majority of accessories that you see in his store are handmade by him, there are times when the inhabitants of shadowlan give atlas accessories that they no longer uses, either because they are bad or they simply don't like them anymore, atlas is going to clean, repair and sell these accessories for a lower price, sometimes his work pace can be a bit slow, other times it will be fast, that will depend on how motivated he is Atlas as such does not have a house, it could be said that he is a homeless person, he usually lives in tents, to be more specific, he owns three tents, one where he sells his accessories, another where he makes them and another where he sleeps and spends his free time (although it is well known that atlas sometimes takes naps in his other two tents) Atlas has a small obsession with cleaning, he hates dirt, his obsession with cleaning is the only thing that can defeat his laziness, which is why he usually volunteers in a company that is responsible for cleaning public spaces in Shadowland, if He gets to see a person dirty the public space on purpose, he will throw a bucket of water at that person and I better not even tell you what would happen to someone if they dare to dirty his tents Despite being a bit lazy, he usually helps his neighbors in case they need some kind of help, such as repairing things, doing some kind of installation or carrying things like bags, etc., usually he is the one who offers the help.

[drivecleanser9]

Driveway Cleaning Services

Driveway Cleaning Services: Why You’d Need Them and How They’re Great Your driveway is one of the most visible areas of your home, and it serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. While it provides a place to park your car and move around, it also contributes significantly to the first impression visitors have of your home. However, over time, driveways can accumulate stains, dirt, moss, algae, oil, and other unsightly buildup. As a result, your once-pristine driveway may start to look aged and neglected, detracting from the overall appeal of your property. This is where driveway cleaning services come into play. A professional driveway cleaning service offers an effective solution to restore your driveway to its original condition, removing grime, stains, and contaminants that DIY methods often fail to address. In this article, we’ll discuss why you need driveway cleaning services, how they work, and the many benefits they bring to your home. What Are Driveway Cleaning Services? Driveway cleaning services are professional services designed to remove dirt, stains, algae, mold, oil, and other contaminants from your driveway surface. These services typically use high-powered equipment like pressure washers, scrubbers, and eco-friendly cleaning solutions to tackle tough stains and debris, ensuring that your driveway is thoroughly cleaned and restored. Whether your driveway is made from concrete, asphalt, pavers, or gravel, professional cleaning services use the appropriate techniques and equipment to ensure that the surface is cleaned without causing any damage. They can also address specific issues such as oil spills, moss growth, or weed buildup, providing a tailored solution for your driveway's needs. Why You’d Need Driveway Cleaning Services

Enhance Curb Appeal The appearance of your driveway plays a crucial role in the overall curb appeal of your home. A clean, well-maintained driveway creates a welcoming atmosphere and contributes to a polished exterior. On the other hand, a driveway covered in dirt, stains, or moss can make your home look neglected and unkempt. By hiring a driveway cleaning service, you can restore the cleanliness and appearance of your driveway, ensuring that it complements the overall aesthetic of your home. Whether you're preparing your home for sale, hosting a gathering, or simply want to maintain a neat exterior, driveway cleaning services are a quick and effective way to improve curb appeal.

Remove Tough Stains and Contaminants Driveways are subjected to various stains and contaminants, including oil spills, tire marks, rust, and algae growth. Over time, these stains can seep deep into the surface, making them difficult to remove with regular cleaning methods. Oil stains from vehicle leaks, in particular, are notorious for being stubborn and unsightly. Driveway cleaning services utilize specialized techniques, such as pressure washing combined with powerful cleaning agents, to break down and lift these stains. Professional services can remove even the most stubborn stains, leaving your driveway looking fresh and clean. No matter the type of stain, driveway cleaning services ensure that your driveway is restored to its original state.

Prevent Long-Term Damage Dirt, algae, moss, and other contaminants not only affect the appearance of your driveway but can also cause long-term damage if left untreated. For example, algae and moss thrive in damp conditions and can gradually degrade the surface of your driveway, leading to cracks, erosion, or discoloration. Similarly, dirt and debris can seep into the pores of concrete or asphalt, weakening the material over time. By investing in regular driveway cleaning services, you can prevent these issues and protect your driveway from unnecessary wear and tear. Removing harmful contaminants helps preserve the integrity of your driveway and extends its lifespan, saving you money on expensive repairs or replacements down the road.

Save Time and Effort Cleaning a driveway by hand is a time-consuming and physically demanding task. Scrubbing, scraping, and attempting to remove stubborn stains can take hours of effort, and even then, the results may not be as thorough as you’d like. Additionally, DIY methods may not be effective in removing all the buildup, especially when dealing with deep stains or hard-to-reach areas. By hiring a driveway cleaning service, you save time and effort while ensuring that the job is done correctly. Professional cleaners have the right tools, techniques, and experience to handle the task efficiently, completing the job in a fraction of the time it would take you to clean the driveway yourself.

Improve Safety A dirty driveway can present safety hazards, especially if it’s covered in moss, algae, or other slippery substances. These contaminants can create slick spots, increasing the risk of slips and falls, particularly when the surface is wet. Additionally, oil and grease stains can create dangerous, slick areas that make it challenging to walk or drive safely. Driveway cleaning services remove these hazards by cleaning the driveway thoroughly and eliminating slippery substances. This not only makes the surface look better but also makes it safer for both pedestrians and vehicles. A clean driveway ensures that your family, guests, and neighbors can move around your property with ease and confidence.

Eco-Friendly Solutions For homeowners who are concerned about the environmental impact of traditional cleaning methods, driveway cleaning services often use eco-friendly cleaning solutions. These biodegradable, non-toxic solutions are safe for the environment, pets, and plants surrounding your driveway. Additionally, pressure washing uses a minimal amount of water compared to other cleaning methods, making it a more sustainable choice. By choosing a driveway cleaning service that uses eco-friendly products, you can maintain a clean driveway without worrying about harmful chemicals or water waste, contributing to a healthier environment.

Increase Property Value Your driveway is an important part of your property’s overall value. If you’re planning to sell your home, first impressions matter, and potential buyers may be turned off by a dirty or neglected driveway. A clean driveway not only makes your home look well-maintained but can also increase its perceived value. Buyers are more likely to be impressed by a property with a clean exterior, and the condition of the driveway can have an impact on the sale price. Even if you’re not planning to sell anytime soon, keeping your driveway clean helps maintain the overall value of your property. Regular maintenance preserves the condition of your driveway, preventing it from becoming an eyesore and protecting its value over time. How Driveway Cleaning Services Work A typical driveway cleaning service involves several key steps to ensure that your driveway is thoroughly cleaned and restored to its best condition. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Inspection: A professional driveway cleaning service will assess the condition of your driveway, taking note of any stains, cracks, or other issues that need attention. This initial inspection helps them determine the best cleaning method and the appropriate cleaning solutions for your specific needs.

Preparation: The cleaning team will take steps to protect the surrounding areas, such as covering plants, outdoor furniture, or other features near the driveway. They will also clear away loose debris, such as leaves or twigs, to ensure that the surface is ready for cleaning.

Pressure Washing: The most common method for cleaning driveways is pressure washing. Using high-pressure water, the technicians will blast away dirt, stains, and contaminants from the surface. Pressure washing is effective at reaching deep into the surface and removing even stubborn stains, such as oil or rust.

Application of Cleaning Solutions: For tougher stains, specialized cleaning solutions may be applied to the driveway. These solutions are designed to break down and lift stains such as oil, rust, and algae. After the solution is applied and left to sit for a short period, it is rinsed away with pressure washing.

Post-Cleaning Inspection: After the cleaning process is complete, the technician will inspect the driveway to ensure that all stains and contaminants have been removed. They may perform touch-ups or additional cleaning as needed.

Optional Sealant Application: Some driveway cleaning services offer the option to apply a protective sealant to the driveway after cleaning. This sealant helps protect the surface from future stains, dirt buildup, and weather damage, keeping your driveway cleaner for a longer period. Conclusion: The Advantages of Driveway Cleaning Services Driveway cleaning services are an essential part of maintaining the appearance, safety, and longevity of your driveway. Whether you’re looking to improve your home’s curb appeal, eliminate tough stains, or protect your driveway from damage, professional cleaning services provide an efficient and effective solution. With the right equipment and expertise, driveway cleaning professionals can tackle even the most stubborn stains and contaminants, restoring your driveway to its original condition. Regular driveway cleaning not only improves the overall look of your home but also extends the lifespan of your driveway, saving you money on future repairs or replacements. If you want to make sure your driveway is looking its best, improve safety, and protect your property’s value, consider hiring a professional driveway cleaning service today. Your driveway will thank you!

driveway #concrete #patio #paving #construction #landscaping #asphalt #pavers #contractor #garden #driveways #stcloud #orlando #kissimmee #lakenona #florida #winterpark #stcloudfl

[candockmiami]

The Ultimate Guide to Floating Docks: Why They’re a Must-Have for Waterfront Properties

Are you looking to maximize the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your waterfront property? Look no further than floating docks. These versatile, durable, and easy-to-install solutions have revolutionized how we interact with lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about floating docks and why they’re an essential addition to your waterfront.

What Is a Floating Dock?

A floating dock is a buoyant platform that rests on the water's surface, supported by air-filled pontoons or floats. Unlike traditional fixed docks, floating docks rise and fall with the water level, making them an excellent choice for areas with fluctuating tides or seasonal water changes. They can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

Boat docking

Swimming platforms

Fishing spots

Watersport activities

Discover how you can enhance your waterfront lifestyle with a premium floating dock at Candock Miami.

Benefits of Floating Docks

Versatility Floating docks are perfect for residential, commercial, and recreational use. Whether you’re a boating enthusiast or just want a relaxing spot by the water, these docks cater to diverse needs.

Durability Modern floating docks are constructed using high-quality materials like modular plastic, which resist weathering, UV damage, and corrosion. This ensures a longer lifespan with minimal maintenance.

Easy Installation Unlike fixed docks that require extensive construction, floating docks are easy to assemble and install. Many options, like the modular systems from Candock Miami, allow for customization to fit your unique waterfront layout.

Adaptability to Water Levels Floating docks automatically adjust to changing water levels, ensuring safety and usability throughout the year.

Eco-Friendly Options Many floating docks are designed with environmental considerations in mind, minimizing disruption to aquatic ecosystems.

Why Choose Candock Miami for Your Floating Dock Needs?

When it comes to floating docks, quality and expertise matter. Candock Miami offers state-of-the-art modular floating dock systems that are:

Customizable: Tailor your dock to meet specific needs, from size and shape to accessories like ladders and bumpers.

Low Maintenance: Forget about frequent repairs—Candock’s products are built to last.

Aesthetic Appeal: Their sleek and modern design enhances the look of any waterfront property.

Environmentally Friendly: Candock’s systems are eco-conscious, ensuring your dock coexists harmoniously with nature.

Floating Dock Applications

Residential Use: Create a stunning waterfront oasis for relaxation and family fun.

Marinas: Provide a stable and adaptable docking solution for boats of all sizes.

Commercial Settings: Ideal for resorts, restaurants, and water sports businesses.

Special Events: Use floating docks as platforms for parties, weddings, or outdoor concerts.

Maintenance Tips for Floating Docks

Regular Cleaning Remove debris and algae buildup with a soft brush and eco-friendly cleaning agents.

Inspect for Wear and Tear Periodically check connections, floats, and accessories for any damage.

Seasonal Adjustments While floating docks are designed to adapt to water levels, ensure they’re secured during storms or extreme weather conditions.

Elevate Your Waterfront Experience

A floating dock is more than just a platform; it’s an investment in your waterfront lifestyle. Whether you want a tranquil escape or a bustling hub for activities, floating docks offer unparalleled functionality and aesthetic value.

Ready to transform your waterfront property? Explore the premium floating dock options available at Candock Miami. With their expertise and innovative designs, your dream waterfront is just a click away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are floating docks suitable for rough waters? A: Yes, many floating docks, including those from Candock Miami, are engineered to handle a variety of water conditions, including rough waters.

Q: How long do floating docks last? A: With proper care, modern floating docks made from durable materials can last 20 years or more.

Q: Can I customize my floating dock? A: Absolutely! Modular systems allow you to design a dock that perfectly fits your needs and preferences.

Upgrade your waterfront property with a floating dock today. Visit Candock Miami to get started!

Candock Miami

401 E Las Olas Blvd, Suite 130-291, Fort Lauderdale FL 33301

Call Now: 305-676-1411 Email: info@candockmiami.com

Floating dock | Floating boat docks | Jetski dock | Floating jet ski dock | Jet ski floating dock | Jet ski docks

[pondsealer]

Pond Sealer: Everything You Need to Know

A pond is a beautiful addition to any outdoor space, providing a serene environment and a habitat for aquatic life. However, maintaining a pond can be challenging, especially when dealing with leaks or structural issues. This is where a reliable pond sealer becomes essential. In this article, we will explore what a pond sealer is, its benefits, and how you can use it to maintain your pond effectively.

What is a Pond Sealer?

A pond sealer is a specialized product designed to prevent water from leaking out of ponds, fountains, and other water features. Whether you have a concrete pond or a pond lined with flexible materials, using the right sealer ensures your water stays where it belongs. Pond sealers come in different forms, such as liquid coatings, sprays, and patches, each suited to specific types of ponds and repair needs.

Types of Pond Sealers

Concrete Pond Sealers For concrete ponds, you need a sealer that can bond well with the surface while remaining flexible to accommodate minor cracks and shifts. Products like pond pro concrete are excellent for this purpose. They create a waterproof barrier that prevents leaks and strengthens the structural integrity of the pond.

Pond Liner Sealants For ponds lined with rubber or plastic liners, a pond liner sealant is the best choice. These sealants are designed to adhere to the liner material and seal any tears, punctures, or weak points effectively.

Natural Pond Sealers These sealers are often made from environmentally friendly materials like bentonite clay, which swells to fill gaps and leaks in earthen ponds. They are a great option for those seeking non-toxic solutions.

Epoxy and Polyurethane Sealers These are versatile sealers that can be used for various pond types, providing a strong and durable waterproof coating.

Benefits of Using a Pond Sealer

Prevents Water Loss: A good pond sealer ensures water doesn’t seep out, saving you time and money on refilling the pond.

Protects Aquatic Life: By maintaining water levels, a sealer creates a stable environment for fish and plants.

Durability: Sealers like pond pro concrete and pond liner sealants are designed to withstand harsh weather and UV exposure, offering long-lasting protection.

Cost-Effective: Repairing leaks early with a quality sealer is much cheaper than replacing an entire pond liner or reconstructing the pond.

How to Choose the Right Pond Sealer

Assess the Material: Determine whether your pond is made of concrete, has a flexible liner, or is an earthen pond. This will help you select the appropriate sealer.

Consider the Environment: Choose a non-toxic and eco-friendly sealer if your pond houses fish or other aquatic life.

Evaluate Durability: Look for products that can resist UV rays, temperature fluctuations, and water pressure.

Ease of Application: Opt for a sealer that is easy to apply and doesn’t require professional assistance.

How to Apply a Pond Sealer

Prepare the Pond

Drain the pond completely and clean it thoroughly to remove algae, dirt, and debris.

Repair any visible cracks or holes using a patching material suitable for the pond surface.

Apply the Sealer

For concrete ponds, apply a product like pond pro concrete using a brush, roller, or sprayer. Ensure an even coating across the surface.

For liner ponds, use a pond liner sealant to patch tears or weak spots. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

Allow Time to Cure

Most sealers need time to cure before the pond can be refilled with water. Check the product’s curing time and avoid rushing this step.

Refill the Pond

Once the sealer has fully cured, refill the pond with water and monitor for any signs of leakage.

Common Pond Problems and How Sealers Help

Cracks in Concrete Ponds

Over time, concrete ponds may develop cracks due to shifting ground or weather changes. Using a product like pond pro concrete can fill and seal these cracks, preventing water loss and further damage.

Tears in Pond Liners

Sharp objects, animals, or aging can cause tears in pond liners. A pond liner sealant is ideal for repairing these issues quickly and effectively.

Leaks in Natural Ponds

Earthen ponds can lose water through soil seepage. A natural sealer like bentonite clay can create a barrier to prevent leaks.

UV Damage

Prolonged exposure to sunlight can weaken pond liners and sealants. Choose products with UV-resistant properties to enhance durability.

Maintaining Your Pond After Sealing

Regular Inspections Check for any new cracks, tears, or signs of wear. Address issues promptly to prevent larger problems.

Clean the Pond Remove debris, algae, and sediment regularly to keep the water clean and reduce strain on the sealer.

Protect the Liner Use a protective underlay beneath pond liners to prevent punctures from sharp objects.

Monitor Water Levels Sudden drops in water levels may indicate a leak. Investigate and repair promptly.

Conclusion

A reliable pond sealer is a must-have for any pond owner. Whether you’re dealing with a concrete pond, a flexible liner, or a natural pond, products like pond pro concrete, pond liner sealants, and other sealers for ponds can help you maintain a leak-free and beautiful water feature. By choosing the right sealer and following proper application techniques, you can enjoy your pond for years to come.

[sprayandwashsolutions]

Preventing Common Deck Washing Mistakes: Tips for a Successful Clean

Deck washing is the process of cleaning your deck's surface to remove dirt, grime, algae, mould, and other contaminants that accumulate over time. It's an essential maintenance task to preserve the look and structural integrity of your deck, ensuring it remains an attractive and functional outdoor space.

However, many house owners make common mistakes that can lead to damage or ineffective cleaning. To ensure a successful deck washing experience, here are some essential tips to help you avoid these pitfalls.

1. Overusing Water Blaster

A common misconception is that using a water blaster when washing a deck will give a better clean. In reality, using too much pressure can damage the deck’s surface, stripping away protective finishes, causing splinters, and forcing water deep into the wood, which can lead to rot and mould.

Solution: Use Low Pressure or Soft Washing: Instead of high pressure, opt for a low pressure wash or soft wash system. These methods effectively clean the deck without causing harm, removing dirt and stains while protecting the wood.

2. Choosing the Wrong Cleaner

Using the wrong cleaning product can lead to disastrous results. Harsh chemicals or all purpose cleaners can discolour the wood, weaken the deck’s finish, and may fail to eliminate mould or tough stains effectively.

Recommendation: Choose DeckSpecific Cleaners: Use cleaners formulated specifically for your deck material. For wood decks, select a product designed for your type of wood. For composite decks, choose a gentler solution. Avoid bleach based cleaners, as they can damage the wood and cause it to lose its natural colour.

3. Cleaning in Direct Sunlight

Washing your deck in direct sunlight may seem like a good idea, but it can cause cleaning solutions to dry too quickly. This results in streaks and uneven cleaning and can affect the solution’s interaction with the deck, leading to potential damage.

Best Approach: Clean in the Shade or on Overcast Days: To get the best results, clean your deck during cooler times, such as in the shade or on an overcast day. This ensures the cleaning solution has enough time to work effectively without drying too fast, leaving you with a more even and thorough clean.

4. Skipping the Rinse

Leaving cleaning solution residue behind can cause discolouration, sticky patches, or attract dirt more quickly. It’s crucial to rinse the deck thoroughly after applying a cleaner.

Essential Step: Rinse Thoroughly: Once you’ve finished cleaning, rinse the deck thoroughly. Use a gentle spray or low pressure wash to remove all traces of the cleaner, ensuring the deck remains fresh and free from unwanted residue.

5. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Cleaning your deck once a year may not be enough to maintain its condition. Dirt, debris, and algae can build up over time, making future cleaning harder and more time consuming.

Ongoing Care: Perform Regular Deck Maintenance: Make it a habit to sweep your deck regularly to remove debris and clean it at least once or twice a year, depending on the weather. Regular maintenance not only keeps the deck looking good but also helps to prevent long term damage and deterioration.

6. Skipping the Sealer After Cleaning

After cleaning your deck, it’s essential to apply a protective sealer. Skipping this step leaves your deck exposed to moisture, UV rays, and weather conditions that can cause wear and tear.

Protection: Apply a HighQuality Sealer: After cleaning, apply a high quality deck sealer once the deck is completely dry. Sealing helps protect the wood from water, mould, and sun damage, ensuring it stays in top condition for a longer period.

7. Ignoring Deck Damage Before Washing

Washing a deck that has existing damage can make the problems worse. Cracks, loose boards, or signs of rot can become more severe during the cleaning process if not addressed beforehand.

PreCleaning Check: Inspect and Repair Damage: Before you start washing, inspect your deck for any damage such as splintered wood, loose nails, or rot. Make any necessary repairs before cleaning to prevent further harm.

Conclusion

By avoiding these common mistakes and following these tips, you can achieve a successful deck washing experience that enhances both the beauty and lifespan of your outdoor space. If you're unsure about tackling this task yourself or want professional results, consider contacting Spray & Wash Solutions for expert deck washing services.

Our experienced team uses safe and effective methods to ensure your deck looks its best while protecting its integrity. Get in touch today for a free quote and let us help you keep your outdoor space shining!

Spray and Wash Solutions

https://sprayandwash.co.nz/

https://sprayandwash.co.nz/deck-washing/

8C Piermark Drive, Rosedale, Auckland 0632, New Zealand

Phone: +64 800 881 123

https://maps.app.goo.gl/LUz3qFAfD9A3zUw28