It’s hardly surprising that so many New Zealanders suffer from allergies. About a third of us will complain about some sort of allergy in our lifetimes, and with all the pollen-laden vegetation that lives on the doorsteps of our cities and towns, plant-based allergens are often to blame. These plants, in particular, are the sneeziest and wheeziest of them all.

• The pollen season lasts for nine months of the year, from autumn (March) until the end of spring in November. The link between gorse pollen and hay fever has yet to be confirmed but given the huge amounts of pollen this plant produces, and because it is so widespread, a connection between the two would not be surprising. Gorse was introduced into New Zealand as an ornamental plant and although it has a bad reputation in modern days, it is a major food source for bees, particularly in winter, and is an important nurse plant for regenerating bush.
• Just like gorse, macrocarpa trees are commonly seen on long drives on country roads. Another thing in common with gorse – a very, very long pollen season. Macrocarpa trees produce pollen for eight months of the year, extending from July right through to February. Macrocarpa pollen is classified as a severe allergen.
• In New Zealand, plantain is not the banana-type fruit known all over the world. Here, it is a low-growing weed that produces pollen for seven months of the year, starting in September until autumn in March. Each plantain plant produces only small amounts of pollen, but it is widespread in parks, lawns and roadside verges which makes it one of New Zealand’s most common allergens.
• This is a well known and prolific pollen producer for half the year starting from July. A mature Pinus radiata tree can produce up to one kilogram of pollen each year; with our vast and numerous pine forests, it’s inevitable that all of those allergens will affect Kiwis up and down the country. While pine pollen is seen as nasty stuff here, it has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries.
• Olive trees. This one might surprise you because, until the early 2000s, most New Zealanders weren’t aware they were sensitive to olive tree pollen because there weren’t many trees around. But the number of olive orchards is increasing

                        and they produce pollen from October to March, particularly in dry areas with a

                        Mediterranean climate e.g. Hawkes Bay. The oil is nice but the pollen is potent.

In a country where plant-based allergens are largely responsible for the sneezes, wheezes and coughs that plague us, it is good to know that modern heat pumps, as supplied and installed by companies like this one, are coming to the rescue. Many of the latest devices now feature advanced filtration systems, capable of removing pollen and dust from the air before delivering clean, allergen-free air back into the internal environment. Technology like this is not to be sneezed at in our sneeze-inducing environment.

Click Lock Rubber Tiles (กระเบื้องยางคลิกล็อค, which is the term in Thai) and SPC Rubber Tiles are two of the most popular tiles being used in construction. These tiles are being used across many homes and offices because of their unique qualities. Although they have similarities, there are also major differences that make them suitable for different types of construction needs. However, it must be kept in mind that both of them have their own merits which are compelling by them.

·      Durability

These rubber tiles are not only affordable compared to other options, but they are also known for their durable nature. Their superior grip allows them to carry loads that are heavier than usual. Plus their ability to withstand shock as well as the cushioning makes them a preferred choice.

·      Aesthetics

Their aesthetics are top-notch which also makes them a preferred choice among the end-users. The wide variety of options when it comes to their color schemes certainly works in favor of runner tiles compared to other options. The same goes for their textures.

·      Materials Used

These tiles are made from different types of rubber. This is an advantage because it allows these tiles to be molded in multiple ways. Doing so also allows them to be used for different purposes while construction and versatility are always a good quality.

·      Thickness

The amount of thickness of a tile might not seem like a big differentiating factor but in reality it is. It allows these instruments to be sturdier and last for longer periods which is a big plus.

·      Installation

There is another merit that the installation process for these rubber tiles is much more convenient and much less time-consuming compared to the other options available in the market. Plus the make of this tile also allows you to remove it or replace it whenever you want to. Unlike other options, you will not need to replace the entire floor of tiles in case of a problem with a single one. This is a very big advantage which saves both time and money.

Conclusion

Click Lock Rubber Tiles and SPC Rubber tiles (กระเบื้องยาง SPC, term in Thai) are two options among a variety of products available for you in the market. They are relatively newer and may not be as preferred by both construction companies or by the end-users. However, many people are going for these two rubber tile options because of their benefits and costs. Rubber tiles have a promising future potential.

If you are a nature lover, having a green rooftop terrace can be a lot of fun. It is a great idea if you do not have the space to plant an outdoor garden or you enjoy spending time on your terrace. Rooftop gardens are private and refreshing. They can help maintain cool temperatures in your building.

A green rooftop garden is more than just a collection of pots and plants. Here are a few tips to create an outdoor space that promotes relaxation.

1. Consider the Slab’s Weight-Bearing Capacity

The first step is to find out the strength of your roof slab and how much weight it can bear. Do not start bringing in seating, soil, pots, and plants before finding out if your slab is strong enough. You need a professional for this step. They will take a look at your structure and determine the best position for your garden.

2. Get the Right Soil Mixture

The type of soil mixture you need for a terrace garden is different from what you would have in an outdoors garden. It is supposed to be lightweight and good for drainage. Your garden terrace soil should be a mixture of garden soil, conditioners, and fertilizers. Soil conditioners improve the ability of your soil to retain water and nutrients.

3. Create a Wilderness

Use native plants in your garden. Consider adding a feeder and water source to attract native butterflies, bees, and birds. The best plants are those that can provide food and material for building nests. The feel of a wilderness will be an amazing contrast to the city landscape. Your best plant options include purple cornflower and black-eyed Susan. They are perfect for pollinators.

4. Grow a Green Screen

If you want to create the impression of being in a beautiful, secluded retreat, consider using planters, fences, and screens. Invest in shrubs and vines to block out the adjacent buildings. Use the walls bordering your terrace to create a beautiful backdrop for your garden. They can offer your vines some support as well.

A wooden lattice fence can give your leafy screen the support they need. Consider covering a part of the garden with a shade sail or pergola. You’ll get extra privacy and some shade.

5. Explore Different Styling Ideas

There are plenty of ways to style your garden. With outdoor seating, you need furniture made with all-weather material. Movable options are flexible and perfect for home gardens. There are lots of commercially-treated furniture options to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Pick decorative elements to match your seating and the general aesthetic of your garden. The most common ones include bird feeders, bird baths, and stone urns. If you want to create a pleasant ambiance, consider using a water fountain or water pond.

Even though there are lots of lighting options, solar panels are some of your best options. They are movable and do not need wiring.

If you need help designing a good rooftop garden, consider seeking the help of Garden Club London. A team of experts will work with you from the start to the end of your project.