Understanding Ethyl Acetate: Is it Polar or Nonpolar?  

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Ethyl acetate is a widely used chemical in modern processes. Coffee and tea are decaffeinated through this chemical, while for perfumes it promotes high volatility to allow for quick evaporation. Given this substance’s broad range of uses, it is helpful to know some of its key properties that might be useful in other processes.  

One of the most important chemical properties of any compound is its polarity, so is our chemical polar or nonpolar?  

How Polarity Works  

 In chemistry, polarity is a measure of the electric balance of a molecule. While you might think that molecules will always have an overall neutral charge, it would not be chemistry if things did not become complex. Polarity arises when atoms bond to each other to form a molecule, protons stay in their respective atoms but electrons move around.  

When a molecule is formed, the electrons tend to concentrate on the larger atoms which contain more protons. For example, water contains one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms. Oxygen contains more protons than hydrogen, so the electrons in water molecules spend much more time near the oxygen atom than the hydrogen atoms. So, although water has 10 protons and 10 electrons, poles develop because the electrons favor the oxygen atom.   

Near the oxygen atom, a negative charge develops. Meanwhile, because the hydrogen atoms kept their protons but lost their electrons, a positive charge develops. In other words, a negative pole develops at the oxygen and a positive pole develops at the hydrogens. It is because of this that water is a highly polar molecule.  

Is Ethyl Acetate Polar?  

 In short: yes, ethyl acetate is polar.   

Polarity is not a binary property; molecules are not either polar or nonpolar. It is more useful to think of the property as a spectrum. Some molecules are completely nonpolar at one end, some are highly polar at the other end, and most molecules are somewhere in between.   

This chemical, although it is polar, it is not nearly as polar as water. If you made a polarity scale where water was a 10/10 for polarity and a perfectly balanced molecule like methane was a 0/10, ethyl acetate would be somewhere between a 2 and 3. While this might seem low, it is still high enough for ethyl acetate to have chemical properties inherent to polar compounds.  

Where to Buy Ethyl Acetate  

Ecolink has been changing the chemical supply industry by providing high-quality chemicals that get the same job done with less. We offer a variety of eco-friendly and less toxic products for all of your industrial needs! If you would like to learn more about what we can offer, contact us here. We are here to help! 

Best Cleaning Solution for Asphalt Shingles  

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Asphalt shingles are relatively common in the United States as they are affordable and efficient. Made from a mixture of asphalt, granules, sealants, fiberglass, and release film, these types of shingles are lightweight, waterproof, and fireproof. 

However, asphalt shingles aren’t invincible. In order to prolong the lifespan of your shingles, it’s essential that you clean your roof regularly. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at why it’s important to clean your roof, and an at-home method you can try to get your roof looking spotless. 

Importance of Roof Maintenance 

Moss is a plant that spreads via spores carried in the wind, landing on your roof and thriving on the surface. While moss may seem harmless, it actually is quite dangerous to your roof, and when left on your shingles for too long, can cause serious issues. 

Moss can ruin shingles by causing them to curl or lift at the edges. Once shingles are loosened, they can blow off in the wind and need replacement. In addition, no shingles on your roof means that your roof loses the waterproofing element, potentially leading to leaks if the shingle is not replaced.     

Cleaning Your Asphalt Shingles 

So, how do you clean your asphalt shingles?  

The answer lies in an equal part mixture of water and chlorine bleach, and a garden hose. Using a 50:50 chlorine bleach/water mixture allows for the bleach to kill the moss and other potentially harmful bugs residing on the shingles, while the water keeps the bleach from being too potent and damaging the integrity of the shingles themselves (not to mention the live plants below your house).    

To clean your shingles, follow these easy steps: 

  1. Take the 50:50 water/bleach mixture in a sprayer and attach it to a garden hose. 
  2. Spray the roof with the mixture and allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Rinse the mixture off with just water. Never use a high-pressurized blast from a power or pressure washer unless you are a professional. Too high of a blast can harm your shingles rather than help them.

Sometimes moss is stubborn and doesn’t entirely go away after just one wash. If this is the case, then repeat the above process at least 2 to 3 times. 

To prevent future dirtying of your asphalt roof, trim nearby tree branches, leaf blow the roof often, and keep the gutters clean. 

Looking for the Best Cleaning Solution for Asphalt Shingles? 

If you’re in the shingle cleaning business, then you’ll need an industrial-grade roof-cleaning solution. At Ecolink, we offer high-quality cleaning solutions available to buy in bulk.  

Reach out to us today to learn more about how our solutions can help you achieve your business goals! 

Different Types of Shingles

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Shingles are an essential part of any roof, that helps protect your home from the elements. There are several different kinds on the market, making it difficult to choose which is best for your home.  

In this blog post, we’ll break down the different types of shingles and their properties. 

Types of Roof Shingles 

There are six common types of roof shingles, and each type has its own unique properties that make them more suitable for certain environments than others. 

  1. Asphalt Shingles  

Asphalt shingles are made from a mixture of… 

  •  Asphalt 
  • Granules 
  • Fiberglass 
  • Sealants 
  • release film 

They can be made into many different shapes and textures. These shingles are relatively cheap and lightweight and are also waterproof and fireproof. However, they are very susceptible to temperature changes and have a lifespan of only up to 30 years. These shingles are best for environments with fairly consistent temperatures.    

  1. Wood Shingles 

Wood shingles are cut from cedar, spruce, or pine trees. This is one of the most eco-friendly roofing shingles around. Unfortunately, since they are made of wood, they are more vulnerable to the following: 

  • Fire 
  • Termites 
  • Hail 
  • Rot 

Additionally, because it is a natural product, it is more expensive. The lifespan is fair, being around 25 years, but because it is so susceptible to environmental conditions, they don’t last as long.    

  1. Metal Shingles 

These shingles are made from aluminum, steel, copper, and alloy that have been stamped into shapes. These shingles are more expensive, however, they are the lightest roofing shingle on the market and they have an extremely long lifespan, lasting up to 75 years.  

These shingles are resistant to… 

  • Water 
  • Rot 
  • Fire 
  • Hail 

They are efficient at cooling a home because of their ability to reflect the sun rather than retain it. However, this roofing material is quite loud in the rain and wind.    

  1. Slate Shingles 

These shingles have the longest lifespan, up to 100 years. They have a very low leak risk and are heat, hail, fire, and water resistant. They are heavy and require extra structural support and they are expensive due to their weight and durability.   

  1. Clay Shingles 

Coming in a variety of colors and shapes these shingles are fantastic for Spanish-style homes. They are fire resistant, will not fade over time, and are energy efficient. However, they are on the heavier side and can make installation more difficult. The lifespan is around 50 years, which is quite long!  

  1. Composite Shingles

Composite shingles are made to replicate natural materials. These shingles are very expensive, and made of the following substances:  

  • Polymer 
  • Rubber 
  • Plastic 

They are very durable and retain their color over time. With a lifespan of over 50 years, this type is perfect for someone wanting a natural look with a longer life.    

Whatever type of roofing you choose, it’s important to regularly clean dirt, grime, and debris out of your gutters and off of your roof to prolong its lifespan. 

Need a Cleaning Solution for Your Roof? 

Tidal Washers offers commercial-grade cleaning solutions for a variety of cleaning tasks. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our eco-friendly solutions!

Asphalt vs. Architectural Shingles: What’s the Difference?     

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Asphalt shingles are some of the most popular roofing materials on the market. Known for their durability and longevity, this material is a common choice for homes. However, there is another type of shingle that is increasing in popularity: architectural shingles. 

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the difference between asphalt and architectural shingles. 

Asphalt vs. Architectural Shingles: What’s the Difference? 

When properly taken care of, asphalt-based shingles can last about 30 years. They consist of a hardened mixture of waterproof materials such as: 

  • Fiberglass 
  • Asphalt 
  • Granules 
  • Sealant 
  • Release film 

The most common variety of these shingles is known as the 3-tab. The 3-tab variety is what you see on most residences. 

Architectural shingles, on the other hand, are a more high-end version of asphalt-based shingles and are all-around more versatile and durable. They are thicker than the standard 3-tab shingles, allowing them to defend your roof against the elements better. 

When it comes to the difference in appearance between these two types of roofing materials, architectural shingles are often considered more attractive. Unlike the 3-tab, architectural shingles come in different shapes and styles that can be overlapped to create different designs, while 3-tabs can only be laid in one direction with little room for variety. 

The downside of architectural shingles is that they can be more expensive than the 3-tab. However, they tend to have a longer lifespan than the 3-tab and make for a better investment.   

Looking for Roof Cleaning Solutions??  

No matter what type of roofing material you choose, it’s important to regularly clean your roof to prolong its lifespan. Start maintaining your roof today by investing in high-quality roof cleaning solutions. 

Specifically formulated for industrial use, Tidal Washers offers eco-friendly detergents for all your cleaning needs. All of our products come in bulk availability, with sizes ranging from 5 to 55-gallon pails. 

Need Help Choosing? 

Tidal Washers provides all prospective customers with a free consultation service. Reach out today to get a free quote! 

What Is the Average Lifespan of Asphalt Shingles?

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Other than the foundation, a roof is one of the most important parts of a house. There are many different types of roofing materials, but the most common material on homes is asphalt. 

Asphalt-based shingles are preferable for their versatility and long lifespan. To learn more about the average lifespan of asphalt shingles and what makes them a great roofing option, then read on. 

Choosing Asphalt Shingles 

Asphalt shingles are primarily made of a composition of a solution that is made from processed material such as: 

  • Rock 
  • Gravel 
  • & Other recycled items 

These materials are known for their waterproof properties, which makes them a popular choice as a shingle matter. The average lifespan of this roofing varies depending on its design, the environment you live in, and how often you clean your shingles. High-quality, asphalt-based shingles can last up to thirty years when taken care of properly. 

Maintenance   

Asphalt-based shingles are great for a variety of roofing styles seen in different houses. These types of shingles can be split into three different categories and can have the following properties: 

  1. 3-tab

The simplest type of asphalt-based roofing, the 3-tab is the most common type you see on residences and can last between 20-25 years, weather permitting. 

  1. Dimensional

This type of roofing consists of differing patterns that give the roof a more dimensional look, rather than a standard overlaying of shingles as seen in 3-tab. This type can last for about 30 years, weather permitting. 

  1. Luxury

The luxury shingles are larger, slate-like materials. Luxury materials can last for about 30 years if maintenance is kept up.? ? ?  

Although shingles are easy to replace if they get cracked or damaged, you can prevent regular replacement by regularly cleaning your roof. To get the most amount of time out of your roof, it is important to maintain its function. A few steps that can be taken to perform maintenance are:   

  • Cleaning gutters/debris 
  • Get maintenance checkups once or twice a year  
  • Proper ventilation (attic) 

Searching for Industrial Pressure Washing Detergents?   

You can rely on Tidal Washers for all your commercial pressure washing needs. We offer industrial grade detergents that are tough on stains, but gentle on the environment. At Tidal Washers, we have a team of experts ready to assist you with all of your business’s cleaning needs.?To find out more, click here.