How to Choose the Right Laser Level
One fantastic tool that increases accuracy, efficiency and enables hands-free working is the Laser Level! It is a very versatile instrument with a variety of different types, which you would choose based on the type of job or project you need it for.
Before you purchase, consider what type of job you require the level for:
• Indoor project- the best level suited for an indoor project is a multiple line laser for aligning kitchen cabinets or framing in a smaller, enclosed room. Or you can use a laser square for tiles and masonry.
• Outdoor project- for uneven surfaces and/or for long distances, you will be better suited for a rotary and line laser with a pulse/detector feature.
• Large or small area- you need to consider the room size or distance the laser needs to travel as laser levels with a low rotations per min (RPM) are bright and visible but do not travel far. The higher the RPM, the further it will travel but it will be fainter.
Posted in Tools by Jason .
How Do You Become a Crane Operator?
There are a few paths and courses that are available for becoming a Crane Operator, however attaining a Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) card is considered the best and most in-demand qualification in the construction industry. The CPCS ensure that you have been trained up to national standards that have been set by technical specialists in the construction industry. This qualification involves intensive training courses that will help prepare you for rigorous Practical and Theory tests. It can be a long and expensive process but it leads to a very rewarding and well-paid position. On average, Crane Operators in the UK can make over £14 an hour.
After passing the Practical and Theory tests, a CPCS Trained Operator card (or Red Card) is obtained which is valid for two years as a ‘provisional’ qualification which means they can operate under close supervision until deemed experienced enough to operate unsupervised. This supervised period varies from one person to another but typically after three to six months most operators will be ready for an assessment to become a fully competent operator.
Posted in construction, Cranes by Jason .
Circular Saws and Their Benefits
Circular saws are one of the handiest and most versatile saws in the industry. Whilst they may lack the precision of table saws, circular saws are by far more mobile and easier to take on any job site. Circular saws are excellent for DIY jobs and for commercial use. The circular saw can be used for cutting large pieces of wood, plastic, metal, concrete or most any other material such as tile or brick, with the correct accessories. They are capable of straight and curvilinear cuts.
When choosing a circular saw, you need to consider the purposes of its usage, so you can choose the right power level and the correct accessories for the job. You will also need to think about what type of braking systems works best for you and your jobs as well as how often you will use the saw. For commercial use, it is best to invest in a top of the line commercial circular saw so that it will get the job done and last a long time.
Posted in Tools by Jason .
Construction News 2020
Construction recovery activity seems to have slowed again, since August, and seems to be remaining around 11 percent below pre-lockdown levels, according to latest Office for National Statistics figures. The months prior to August, directly following the ease of lockdown restrictions, were immensely better for construction recovery.
Monthly construction output growth was at a record 21.8 percent in June and 17.2 percent in July, compared to the drop to 3 percent output growth in August. During this three-month increase, all new work sectors showed higher output than pre-lockdown, except for private industrial, which fell by 6.5 percent. The largest growth contributor being private new housing, which grew by 34.9 percent.
It is believed that the unpredictability regarding another lockdown or work restrictions are causing private commercial investors to remain cautious and skeptical. Record growth in repair and maintenance sectors is another demonstration of commercial hesitation, with growth being at 35.6 percent during the three-month growth period.
Posted in construction by Jason .
When Would You Need an All-Terrain Crane?
For many industries, mobile cranes are the workhorses of crane types. They are quite versatile and combine heavy-lifting power with mobility to conquer various tasks and loads, but when having to work on rough or uneven ground, an all-terrain crane will most likely be a necessity. They are also better at handling different kinds of weather conditions.
All-Terrain cranes typically have 6-8 tyres but can have up to 18 for increased stability. They typically have two engines, one to power the truck and one for the boom or arm of the Crane. Most cranes have a hydraulically powered telescopic boom so they are highly adjustable and their lifting capacity is usually between 40-1000 tons, model dependent.
The main downside is that they are extremely heavy so any worksite they will be used on, that has softer terrain, would need to be inspected for bearing strength to ensure that it can support the cranes weight.
Posted in Cranes by Jason .
Buy vs. Lease, Deciding What is Best for You
Your current/near future project scope, workload and long-term business plans will be the biggest determinants as to whether or not you need buy or hire a crane. You need to consider your daily, weekly and monthly needs to help you ascertain if you have the time, energy and manpower to own and operate a crane.
If you do not plan to use a crane on a regular basis, it may be more practical to simply hire a crane. Usually when you hire a crane the rental company supplies you with an operator as well. Most crane rental companies charge you on the time that the crane is actually in use, so the more you use it the more you pay. There are several factors that go into the price of renting a crane and each job requires a tailored quote, this is why it is so hard to get a crane rental ‘price list’.
If you conclude that buying a crane is right for you. Here are a few helpful tips to purchasing a crane. You need to consider:
• What is its primary use?
• Where will you be using it?
• What additional components will you need?
• Ensuring your General Arrangement includes essential criteria.
• Make sure you understand the safety requirements and legislation for your new purchase.
Posted in Cranes by Jason .