The Dirt

Yes, it's Winter in the midwest. It's cold, but you've got a job to do. Beside hot hands, how do you keep warm?Buying a heater for your workplace is a great option, but how do you choose the right one? Knowing the answers to some simple questions can help our sales staff recommend the right heater for your needs. Knowing the answers to ... Read more...

Tips for pouring concrete during cold weatherThe American Concrete Institute under ACI 306 defines cold weather as an average daily air temperature of less than 40°F and/or the air temperature is not greater than 50°F for more than 12 hours during any 24 hour period. During these conditions, make sure you: Protect the concrete from freezing ... Read more...

So, you say... My chain saw is GREAT! But, I have to admit I've been using it for a long time though... is it time to replace? Or can I get another season (or two) without making the investment?Chainsaws are one of the big workhorses of the fall season. Whether you've been using yours all summer, or you are just getting ready to dust it ... Read more...

So, you have been doing well this summer...great! How are you going to keep up productivity in the fall? Chances are, you may be doing more mowing as the days cool off. Or you may be losing some of your seasonal crew due to college summer helpers.  Here are a few things to keep in mind as summer winds down. Take inventory of your ... Read more...

When is it a good idea to rent vs. buy?Everyone loves unpacking a shiny new tool. After all, buying and using the latest cool, new tools is one of the reasons we got into the trades in the first place, right?     These days, budgets are stretched thinner and thinner and it takes a little creativity to keep comfortable profit ... Read more...

 Big box stores are great… right? You can get milk and a screwdriver in one place, so that's good… Right?? I mean EVERYONE SAYS THAT… RIGHT???Here are five things you may have heard about big box stores that simply aren’t true!  MYTH 1: Big box stores create local jobs.A big box chain eliminates more local retail ... Read more...

Today, many companies are finding it hard to hire and keep good workers... but the work still needs to be done even if there are less people to do it. Because of this, you might find yourself working alone on a job site.As a tradesman, you know that working alone can cause certain safety issues and can also make some jobs more difficult. Trimming ... Read more...

 Hard hats are a big part of job site safety. Are you taking proper care of yours?For most of you, grabbing a hard hat for work is like putting on pants. But how much do you really know about this important piece of safety equipment? Hard hats should be replaced every five years. Yep.... even though your hard hat might LOOK like it's ... Read more...

Be Present. Be Focused. Be Safe.Job site safety should always be top of mind, but sometimes, other priorities creep up. Safety Week is a great reminder that an awareness of on the job hazards should remain top of mind. Being self-aware and looking out for your fellow workers is part of the job. OSHA has identified 4 particularly dangerous hazards ... Read more...

We know we have to take care during the summer months while working outside in hot and humid conditions… the same goes for your tools!   Keep these summer tips in mind. • There’s no way to avoid the heat outside, but make sure to store your tools in a cool, dry, well -ventilated area when not in use. DO NOT leave your tools – ... Read more...