0 / $0.00
Your Cart

No products in the cart.

Remove All Items
0 / $0.00
Your Cart

No products in the cart.

Remove All Items

Plastering Supplies: Professional Contractors Checklist

Cracks, bumps, and rough spots…oh my! As a tradesman, you can probably spot a botched plastering job from 50 meters. It takes skill and an artistic touch to create a smooth, unnoticeable plaster surface. But to do this, you need the right tools and supplies. Check out this article for a professional contractor’s checklist of plastering supplies. Plus, we’ll give you some bonus tips on how to improve your plastering skills. Have These Plastering Supplies On Hand This checklist will keep you organized and help cut down on waste. Use it to ensure you’ve got everything you need before you start your next job. Plasterboard, Plaster, & Screws Your supplies list differs based on the type of plastering you’re doing. Wet plaster requires more plaster mix. Whereas plasterboard requires tools and supplies to secure it in place. When ordering plasterboard from your local supplier, be sure to order some extra sheets. You may need to get around awkward corners. Or work around doorways and window frames. You’ll attach the boards to the wall studs with screws or nails, depending on your preference. Again, make sure you order some extra screws so you don’t find yourself short. Plan for enough screws to drive them every 150 mm along the length of the wall studs. And, of course, you’ll need to order plaster. The quantity depends on your technique. Plasterboard requires much less plaster than wet plastering. Other useful supplies for securing plasterboard: Stud adhesive Joint tape Plasterboard lift to hold the sheets up when installing on a ceiling Stepladder Utility Knife & Level In a perfect world, the walls would be exactly the same size and shape as your plasterboard, but we all know that’s not usually the case. You’ll need a sharp utility knife with plenty of extra blades to cut the boards down to size. Don’t forget to invest in a longer level, like a 122cm level, to provide a long straight edge in addition to leveling ability. Bucket or Wheelbarrow You’ll never go wrong with a high-quality wheelbarrow because you can use it to mix other things too, like cement. This is the best way to mix large batches of plaster. You also don’t want your plaster mixture to get too dry. Use a clean bucket for smaller jobs, and make sure you have access to plenty of fresh water when it’s time to mix the plaster. Mixing Paddle for a Power Drill You can mix plaster by hand using a shovel, but it’s best to get a special mixing paddle that attaches to your power drill. These paddles are worth the investment because they save you time. They come in different shapes and sizes depending on how thick you plan to mix your plaster. Best of all, they make the plaster much smoother than mixing by hand. Hawk/Trowel Combo & Sandpaper The hawk and trowel have been around for centuries, and they’re still the best way to apply plaster to a wall. The size of your hawk/trowel combo depends on your preferences. For larger jobs, you’ll want larger tools, but you may want to have smaller trowels in your toolbox for more precision work. Once you’ve applied plaster throughout the room, sand down rough areas for a seamless wall. Use sandpaper or sanding blocks to achieve this look. A pole sander is a great tool for sanding high walls or ceilings. Safety Equipment & Proper Clothing Anytime you’re working with heights, ensure that you and your crew are safe by investing in the right safety equipment. As we mentioned earlier, a plasterboard lift is essential if you’re applying plasterboard high up. It takes the brunt of the weight off your shoulders and cuts down the risk that you might drop a heavy piece of plasterboard on your head. If you’re using a ladder, follow ladder safety guidelines. This applies to scaffolds too. Consider using safety harnesses for high scaffolds. Make sure everyone in your crew has safety gloves and glasses. Use hardhats if doing any work on the ceiling, and make sure that everyone uses a dust mask, especially during the sanding process. Plastering Tip #1: Prep the Walls Once you gather the right tools, it’s essential to prep the walls before you begin. If you’re using a wet plaster technique, you’ll need to prime the walls first with a specialty plaster primer. This primer gives the plaster a tacky surface to stick to. Also, determine the suction level of the wall surface before you start plastering. The suction level varies depending on the wall material and affects how you mix the plaster. Mix up a small batch of plaster and apply a test spot to the wall using your trowel. Let it sit for a few minutes. Then check the test spot for consistency. If the plaster is dry and powdery, then you’re dealing with a high-suction wall. If the test spot is still wet and tacky, you’re dealing with a low suction wall. Most plasterboard is low-suction. Plastering Tip #2: Get the Right Mix If you can, dedicate a bucket or wheelbarrow to plastering jobs only. This ensures that you don’t muck up your plaster with other construction materials. Mix up your test plaster using 1 part water to 1 part plaster. You’ll see how the wall surface reacts to this mixture in the previous step. Adjust your water to plaster ratio according to the wall suction. A good rule of thumb is to make your plaster so that it supports itself in stiff peaks, but not so stiff that it’s difficult to work with. Keep mixing it periodically as you work to make sure it doesn’t separate or dry out. Great Tools Make for Great Work The right plastering supplies make for beautifully seamless, plastered walls. Use this checklist to keep you organized when you’re working on a plastering job. Remember that your supplies will vary depending on the type of plastering. Plasterboard requires a few more supplies than does traditional wet plastering.

Water Pressure Cleaner Guide: How to Use a Pressure Washer Drain Jet

Australia’s construction and maintenance franchises earn one billion in revenue each year. If your business has invested in a high-pressure water cleaning system, then you have a handy tool ready for boosting your income. What’s so handy about water pressure cleaners? They’re great for cleaning off difficult stains from construction projects. They’re also one of the most effective tools for cleaning drains and sewage pipes. You can use a high-pressure hose with your pressure washer to clear out blockages from sewer lines. Sometimes called “drain jetters” or “sewer jetters,” these two tools make the cleaning job faster and easier. They’re more effective than traditional cable machines and make a great way to boost the value of your business. If you’re considering buying a water pressure cleaner to add to your business’s services, you should know about one of its best uses. Read on to learn how to use a pressure washer jet so you’re ready when a plumbing call comes. Things to Consider Before Using a Water Pressure Cleaner Water pressure cleaners are one of the most effective tools for cleaning sludge and grease blockages from sewer lines. When a client needs help clearing out a drain, you’ll want to have one handy to get the job done. Have you already bought the right pressure washer for your business and do you plan on adding a high-pressure hose? There are some things to think about before turning it on at a job. Here are five checkpoints to cover so that you effectively use your pressure cleaner as a water drain jet for pipes. 1. What’s Down There? Icon Water provides ways to avoid blocked drains, but this problem still happens. Drain jets do a great job clearing out grease, sand, and other soft blockages. But they won’t be helpful if your drain problem is caused by roots. It’s important not to get carried away and jump right into the job before knowing what’s the problem. How can you know what’s clogging the drains? Most likely, the problem will be grease or sludge. Restaurants and family dwellings often have problems with grease buildup. 2. Size Is Important Your hose needs to be the correct size for the pipe you’re trying to clear. Why is this important? Because you want the highest water pressure to do the job. When your hose is too small, you lose pressure. The trick is to use a hose with the largest diameter that fits down the drain. When you do this, you’ll have less pressure loss and your cleaner will work better. This is because there will be more pressure at the nozzle, which is what you need to clear out any sludge in the pipes. It’s also important to know where the clog is located in the pipes. Bigger hoses have less flexibility, which can mean your hose may get stuck if the clog is too far down. When you choose your size, take into account how far down the hose needs to go so that you can choose the right flexibility. 3. Don’t Get Stuck When water pressure cleaners were first being used, they sometimes got stuck from the friction between hose and pipe. If you’ve purchased yours from a company that specializes in professional-grade quality, you won’t need to worry about this. Today’s water pressure cleaners vibrate so that they don’t get stuck in pipes. 4. Know Your Technique You should know your technique before you start feeding the hose into the pipe. Most professionals choose to work the hose back and forth while they’re feeding it in. As long as you keep the hose moving, you’ll do a better job and save time. 5. Don’t Let Your Pump Freeze This is an important tip if you work in cold seasons. Make sure your pump won’t freeze while you’re out on a job. When this happens, it can damage both hose and pump and cost you money. Your cleaner might have an antifreeze tank. If so, don’t forget to use it when the weather gets cold. If your machine doesn’t have an antifreeze tank, you can introduce antifreeze into the pump to stop it from freezing. What is the easiest way to clear a blockage in the sewer line? If you’re at your client’s home with the water off, then you’ll either have a pressure washer or a cable machine ready to use. If the sewer problem is caused by grease, you’ll want to use a pressure washer hose. This is because a cable will poke a hole in the grease blockage when it moves forward, but as soon as it’s pulled back the grease gets plugged back up. The spray from a pressure washer can go right through the blockage and flush it down the line. As long as you have a good-sized hose with strong water pressure, you’ll be able to reach the blockage even if it’s deep. Another benefit to having a sewer jetter is that it’s lighter than traditional drain cleaners. This means you can carry it wherever you need to inside your client’s home. Electric pressure washers are the easiest to carry but provide lower pressure than other models. Gas-powered washers will have the most power for pressure washing but need extra accessories to work indoors. Once you’ve fed the hose into the line, make sure to use an efficient technique so that the hose doesn’t get stuck. By following the correct steps, you’ll be able to clear up your client’s sewer lines quickly and easily. Time to Invest in a Water Pressure Cleaner? Whether you already own a water pressure cleaner or want to invest, having a pressure washer and sewer jet will get you ready for more jobs. It’s an effective way to make your business available to wider audiences and boost profits. Want more products to add to your professional arsenal? Check out our blog for more resources and helpful tips.

Polished Concrete Floors: Concrete Polishing Tools Checklist

Polished concrete is a hot trend in residential and commercial flooring. It’s a sleek, modern look that’s affordable, durable, and easy to maintain. It has an industrial vibe. Yet, thanks to vibrant dyes concrete floors can be any color from deep blue to bright red. Designers are choosing polished concrete floors for restaurants, spas, and retail spaces. It’s popular for residential use, too. Vinyl, tile, and carpeting are out. Custom concrete floors are in. If your clients don’t want the same old flooring, introduce them to polished concrete. Wondering what equipment you’ll need to deliver a beautiful concrete look? We have you covered with this checklist. Keep reading for a list of concrete polishing tools. Checklist for Polished Concrete Floors Whether you renovate an existing floor or install a new one you need the right equipment. It’s a complicated process that demands quality commercial equipment. Filler for Repairs Use repair filler to patch cracks in existing concrete floors during the prep stage. An epoxy or semi-rigid crack filler is best. Make sure all repair filler is level so the polishing heads move across the floor in a smooth manner. Large Floor Polisher Every polishing project needs a large floor polisher. The best machines have a  primary polishing head between 17 to 36 inches in diameter. Three or four satellite heads surround the primary head. The satellite heads hold the diamond abrasives. When the machine is on, the satellite heads rotate in the opposite direction of the primary head. This prevents linear grinding marks in the floor. A large floor polisher is heavy. They can weigh 110 to 570kg. Heavier machines produce more friction. The result is a better polish. Pro Tip: If you plan to polish floors dry, get a machine with a built-in vacuum port to capture the dust. Walk-behind Hand-held Polisher The large polisher can’t do edge work. You’ll need a smaller hand-held polisher. Choose one with a diameter of 7 inches or less to reach tight spots and edges. Set of Diamond-segmented Abrasives You’ll need two types of abrasives to polish concrete. A higher grit number produces a finer abrasive level. The first type is coarse diamond segments bonded into a metallic matrix. Use this for surface prep and initial grinding. Coarse segments are 16 to 300 grit. The second set you need is finer diamond segments embedded in a resin matrix. The finer type is 100 to 3000 grit. Use the finer grit for honing and final polishing. Any basic starter kit should include three abrasives at each grit level. The diamond abrasives should fit the satellite heads on your polisher. If the concrete has coatings or mastics from an existing floor, you may need a special grinder. Choose a tool designed to remove heavy coatings and mastics for best results. It may do the job in one pass. Pro Tip: Choose the best abrasives based on the condition of the floor surface.  Dust Extractor If you’re polishing a concrete surface there’s going to be dust.  Choose a machine that captures 99% of the dust from polishing. Most large polishers include dust-collection equipment. The dust collector connects to the polisher. It extracts the dust through a hose and stores it in a separate container. Chemical Hardener Once the coarse grinding is complete it helps to apply a chemical hardener to the concrete. The hardener adds density and extra protection against water penetration and stains. Harder concrete creates a better polish. You can use chemical hardener on new or existing floors. The hardener creates a chemical reaction that results in a crystalline structure.  Topical Stain Prevention Treatment After you reach the look and polish you want, protect the surface with a commercial top coat. It’s essential if grease, oil or chemicals are in use. Stain prevention for concrete is like a fabric guard for upholstery. It creates a barrier so that the floor is resistant to stains and dirt. Apply the treatment with a pump sprayer or wax applicator. Apply the treatment every few months to maintain protection. Power and Lighting Equipment You can’t plug a floor polishing machine into any outlet. They use a lot of power. Models consume from 220 to 460 volts and up to 40 amps. Verify the place you’re working has enough electrical power to operate the equipment. It’s worth investing in a portable generator to guarantee you’re ready for any job. The same goes for lighting your workspace. You need to see the surface. If the area isn’t bright enough, rent or buy portable halogen lights. Enhancements and Accents for Concrete There are many special treatments available for concrete floors. These included painted and scored concrete to produce stunning results. Change the floor color to complement or match any decor.  Consider adding color or chemical stains to the concrete during polishing. Use a subtle stain to tint the floor and show off natural imperfections. You can enhance new concrete floors with concrete aggregate, glass or metal pieces. Seed the decorative bits into fresh concrete before it sets. Polishing reveals the accents on the floor. Create Concrete Floors with Lasting Durability If you’re rehabbing a suburban ranch or creating new floors in a modern loft, use this equipment list as your guide. Invest in commercial grade equipment and products to deliver floors your clients love. Besides their good looks, polished concrete floors are allergen-free, strong, and versatile. Contact Canberra Diamond Blade Suppliers for your concrete flooring supplies and equipment. We’ve been serving tradesmen since 1993.  Order 24/7 online or visit our showroom in Canberra. We deliver anywhere in Australia. We’re here to help your business look good.   

Extension Ladder Safety Tips

You’re climbing your extension ladder to get to the roof to do a job when all of a sudden it buckles from under you and you fall onto the pavement below. Luckily you weren’t too high up yet when the ladder collapsed so you didn’t get as hurt as badly you could have. When you work in construction or any contract work, extension ladders are one of your biggest assets to getting your job done. They can also be a huge hazard if you aren’t aware of all the risks. Keep reading for a few extension ladder safety tips so you can get paid without getting a scratch on you. What are 3 ladder safety rules? The first step of extension ladder safety is being trained to use one. To this end, if you own your very own construction company you should provide each of your employees with a handbook and have the ladder dos and do-nots discussion with them. Do Keep both your hands and a foot on the ladder at all times when you’re climbing. Don’t pull one of your hands away for any reason or climb with a tool in one hand. When you’re ascending, or descending make sure that you are always facing the ladder. When you’re climbing it’s easy to accidentally tip the ladder sideways when you’re at the top or bottom. You just have to take special care to not pull the base out of the ground. Do Not The ladder needs to be on a secure surface. Don’t place it on top of any boxes or put it in loose soil. Every ladder has a recommended weight that they can hold, never exceed this weight. This goes without saying but never tie two ladders together to make it go out longer. It will be top heavy and will tip over or just come untied. Don’t put the ladder on the ground and try and climb it horizontally. What is a safe angle for extension ladder? There is a certain angle that you have to place the ladder at or it won’t be safe to climb. If the ladder is too steep, you risk tipping backward and landing on the concrete with the ladder falling on top of you. Angling it too much, on the other hand, could cause the bottom to slide out, sending you crashing down. When something blocks you from setting the proper angle, take extra time to secure the ladder firmly in place.You don’t want to take any chances.&lt;/p> Does a ladder need to be secured? You don’t want the feet to slip when you’re on the ladder. To stop this from happening you need to make sure the feet are nice secure. If you’re on the soil you can do this by flipping the ladder shoes so the Spurs can stick into the ground and hold it in place.</p> If you’re working on a deck then things get a little trickier. You’ll have to screw down a cleat so if the ladder does slide back, it will be there to catch it. When putting the ladder on a deck, be sure to sweep away any dirt because the ladder could still fall sideways due to slippery sand.</p> If you’re still worried that the ladder may slip, you can use a rope to tie the legs to the wall. Create a Level Base A crucial part of making sure the legs are secure is to create a level ground. If one of the legs are higher or lower than the other then you will topple sideways. A ladder isn’t the same as a table though, you can’t just stick a book under one of the legs and call it done. What you can do is dig a small trench to set the legs in. This will create a nice, level base. If you’re working on a hard surface, then you can buy leg stabilising extensions. Secure the Top of the Ladder It’s not enough to stabilize the bottom of the ladder, you also have to work to make sure the top is secure as well.  There are mitts that you can buy that will slip over the tops of the ladder so it can get a better hold on the wall it’s against. The best accessory you can buy though is a ladder stabilizer. It’s a bar that holds onto the ladder and suction cups to the house. The bar structure stops the ladder from going sideways as well as evens out your weight so you don’t put all your force on the wall the ladder is against and cause any damage. The ladder stabilizer also allows the ladder to lean a little off the wall so you won’t be trying to do your job while being plastered to a building. Tie the Top Down if You Have to If your ladder still feels unstable, it’s completely fine to tie its top securely to the wall it leans on. You’ll have to screw a few holes in the wall but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Setting Up Your Extension Ladder for Safety Extension ladders are essential on most construction sites, but without proper care, they can easily lead to serious injuries. Use these extension ladder safety tips to get the job done without any unfortunate falls. Speaking of safety, the one piece of safety gear that you’re always going to need is a good pair of work gloves. Browse through our products to see if we have the perfect pair for you.

Choosing a Ride-on Lawn Mower: The Professional Landscapers Buying Guide

In Australia, a professional landscaper can mow 6 residential lawns on average during a day of work. If you think about the amount of grass you’re cutting over a season, you can see why investing in the best lawn mower is vital. But how do you know which lawn mower is best for your business? Read on to learn how to choose a ride on lawnmower for professional landscapers. Think About Current Clients When you are deciding on the best lawn mower for your business, make sure to keep your clients in mind. If most of your clients are homes, you’ll want to make sure you choose a smaller deck size that isn’t too large for these backyards. But, if you often mow large rural properties or vast open public areas, you’ll want to choose a deck as wide as 60-72 inches to save time. Evaluate your Crew’s Experience Another thing you should think about is the skill and experience of your crew. You might have years of practice, but what about your current or future employees? A lawn mower that is easy to use will help new employees do good work. You’ll also want to choose a lawnmower that has good visibility. Now le’ts look at some of the features to consider for your new lawn mowers. A Brand You Can Trust A huge consideration when buying a lawn mower for your landscape business is brand. You want to choose a reputable brand that will stand behind their products. Husqvarna is the world’s largest manufacturer of outdoor products. The company has been in business for 325-years. It’s safe to say that they aren’t going anywhere in the near future You can count on Husqvarna for quality and a large variety of commercial-grade products. Deck Size Deck size is the most important thing to look at when buying a new lawnmower. That way you can save time by getting the job done as quickly as possible for that size space. If you plan to mow areas that are 1 acre, choose a lawnmower with a deck size of 36”to 42”. A yard of 1-2 acres needs a mower with a 42” to 46” deck size. Areas larger than 2 acres will need deck sizes of 48” or more. Turning Radius When it comes to ride on lawnmowers, turning radius is important. When a lawn mower has a small turning radius, the mower is able to turn quickly and sharply. You’re able to then avoid rocks and uneven surfaces in the lawn. Engine Torque Engine torque is what keeps the blades at the bottom of the mower spinning. The higher the engine torque, the faster the blades spin. The nest lawn mowers have high torque so they can perform well against tall and thick grass. Choosing a Transmission There are two options when choosing a transmission for your lawnmower. There’s manual transmission or hydrostatic transmission. With a manual transmission lawnmower, you’ll have to stop to change gears. This will add extra minutes time to your lawn cutting time. Over a large space, these minutes could add up to a lot of wasted time. Hydrostatic transmission mowers are much easier to use than a lawnmower with a manual transmission. You’ll enjoy a smooth transition as you change gears while you drive. There are two kinds of hydrostatic transmission solutions. A pedal-operated transmission has different pedals that control speed and forward and reverse movements. The other type of hydrostatic transmission is lever-operated. In these mowers, the lever is on the fender. You can reach it easily from the driver’s seat. Collection, Mulch or Side Discharge? There are a few options for your lawn cuttings. Choose the method that works best for your needs. The best lawnmowers let you choose any of these methods depending on your job. The Husqvarna ride on mowers can do all three. The collection method is tidy. You won’t need to rake up clippings when you are done lawn mowing. If you want to avoid spreading weeds, collection is the best method. It’s good for allergy sufferers also. Side discharge is best for tall, wild grass. Or for lawns that are rarely cut. Mulching is great if you mow often and want a healthy green lawn. The mower chops grass clippings into tiny bits. These clippings fertilize the lawn to keep it healthy. What About Accessories? The best ride on lawnmowers allows you to add on extra accessories. This gives you more use out of your lawn mower for different kinds of jobs. For example, you might want to hook up a trailer to haul yard debris, branches and so on. Or you could choose to get a spreader that can seed or fertilize the lawn as you go. Before you buy a lawn mower, consider the attachments that you might need now or in the future. Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Next Lawn Mower At DBS Construction Centre, we know that you can’t afford to have unreliable machinery. That’s why we work so hard to sell quality tools at a fair price. Plus, we are an authorised warranty repair shop for most of the brands we sell. That means we know our tools and equipment inside out. When you shop with us for a lawn mower or other gear, you can have full confidence that we know what we’re talking about. You no longer need to waste time visiting a bunch of different retailers. We will sell you what you need and repair it when its time. We help tradies save time with professional tools and fast and free delivery. Contact us today.

Bubble Level vs Laser Level: Which One to Choose?

Keeping things straight from the beginning is important in any construction job, whether it be large or small. We’ve all tried to take a few steps back and try to guess what looks even, but that can lead to awful results. Like many projects, it is all about having the right tools at the right time! Owning a bubble level or a laser level is important, but how do you know which one to choose? Keep reading to find out more about the different types of levels and using the right one at the right time. Getting to Know These Types of Levels Now you might think all levels are created equal. That is where you’d be wrong! There are many types of levels out there that can be used for a variety of projects. For instance, a torpedo level is much different and specific than a carpenter level. These levels are used for different types of jobs. Two of the types of levels, bubble levels and laser levels, are commonly used to get large and small jobs completed. These are the two types of levels that will be mentioned in this article, but feel free to do a little research on the other types as well. Both the bubble level and the laser level have pros and cons, so making sure you have the right levels in your bag will ensure you are fully prepared for anything. Choosing a Bubble Level When you think of a level, the bubble level is likely the one that pops into your head. They come in a variety of sizes, so you can have one as small as your pocket or one that is much larger. Also called a spirit level, the bubble level is made of a tube filled with coloured liquid. It is not filled all the way, which is what creates the bubble so that you can use it as a level. When it is sealed, there is a small air bubble left behind that can freely move around the cylinder. If the cylinder is placed on a level surface, the bubble will line up in the middle of the cylinder. Being straightforward, but also easy to use, is what makes this a common and cheaper level. Small single bubble levels are mostly a thing of the past. In today’s world, there are options for larger levels to sit on longer objects and often have multiple bubble levels built in. This way you can check multiple positions at the same time. Although this level works for many types of jobs, it is not perfect. There are drawbacks to certain things about the bubble level that other levels may not have. For this reason, you also may be interested in the laser level. What About the Laser Level? The laser level is a little more accurate than the bubble level and is much more modern. This tool projects a light with a laser onto the surface that you are trying to level out. Using this light, you can see whether or not everything is aligned. Some laser levels will have the ability to project a light horizontally and vertically, which is excellent for certain types of jobs that require levelling on multiple sides. At the inception of the laser level, they were less powerful and could only work for indoor projects. With the technology that has been enhanced and is available today, the laser is much stronger and can be used almost anywhere. This makes it much more versatile for modern construction, landscaping, or other handy jobs. Bubble or Laser Level Calibration One thing to mention is that both of these types of levels should be calibrated regularly. This ensures that they are performing to the best of their ability and are not giving you faulty readings. It is quite simple to calibrate a bubble level. You set it on a flat surface, see if the bubble is centred, flip it over, read it again, and that’s all. If it is in the centre each time you flip it, the level is calibrated! If not, there are steps you can take to calibrate the lever using a screw. For the laser level, the calibration is a little different. It is mostly about marking where the laser hits, rotating it and marking again, then repeating. You are trying to see if it is hitting in the same spot or not. For more information about level calibration, be sure to consult a professional to get a little extra help. What Should You Choose for Your Next Job? Unfortunately, the answer is not really that simple. The level you want will always depend on the job you’re trying to complete! Both of these levels are excellent options, but the size and type will depend on other factors. A bubble level is more versatile, but not always as accurate as a laser level. Both have their areas where they are better or worse for a particular project. Having both with you on your next construction site gives you the best opportunity to be able to accomplish the task at hand. Both are durable and can last for a long time, so these tools do not give out as long as they are well-cared for. If you’d like to get some more information about the types of bubble levels or laser levels we offer, be sure to check out our products. We would love to answer questions or give you more information about what we can offer.

Petrol vs Electric Chainsaws: Which Should You Choose?

As a professional tradie, you know the golden rule: Bad equipment equals bad results. As you evaluate your business needs for 2022, you might be considering adding a chainsaw to your list. Choosing power equipment always comes down to the question, should you go with petrol or electric? Chainsaws are no different and there are pros and cons to each model. In this article, we’ll take a look at petrol vs electric chainsaws. We’ll go through all the elements involved in shopping for a chainsaw and make recommendations for your next chainsaw purchase. Chainsaws: Elements to Consider Are you a tree trimmer or a carpenter? Will you use your chainsaw on a daily basis or only occasionally? It’s important to ask yourself serious questions about your business before you make this investment. Chainsaws come in every size, power level, and range of portability. And much of what you need depends on how you plan to use it. Let’s take a look at some of the biggest factors that tradesmen look at when they buy chainsaws. Size Bar length is the length of the cutting blade. You’ll find both petrol and electric chainsaws in different bar lengths depending on the size of the wood you plan to cut. Bar lengths are almost always measured in inches. If you’re planning to use your saw on small jobs, clearing branches or other small pieces of wood from construction sites, a smaller bar length will do. Most electric chainsaws come in bar lengths from 12-20 inches. For those who plan to cut larger pieces of wood, you’ll want to opt for something larger. A commercial-quality petrol-powered chainsaw can be larger than 20 inches. Power An electric chainsaw will give you enough power to prune trees and cut small branches. But if you’re looking for something more powerful, your best bet is always petrol. The amount of power a petrol chainsaw kicks out is directly related to how big the engine is. A 30-45 cc engine is the lowest on the power grid. This is for small jobs where you still want a decent kick of power. A medium range chainsaw has a 40-50 cc engine and can take on larger projects like cutting firewood and clearing thicker trees. But this size engine won’t do the really tough work. If you’re a professional tree cutter, you need a professional-quality engine on your chainsaw. Larger chainsaws can run up to 120 cc. This powerful petrol engine will power a blade enough to cut through almost anything. Portability & Weight There are two types of electric chainsaws: corded and battery-powered. Corded saws offer the least amount of portability because you can only go as far as the cord takes you. A battery-powered saw, of course, you can take anywhere. Corded saws do have an advantage over battery-powered saws in that they’re often more powerful. Petrol chainsaws are portable and have the longest run times. But they’re also the heaviest, which affects portability too. A battery-powered saw is the lightest and most portable saw you can get. Even though they’re not as powerful as corded or petrol saws, they are easier to maneuver because they weigh less. And they’re generally less bulky than petrol saws. Maintenance Electric saws need less maintenance than petrol chainsaws. If you’re looking for something light and easy to maintain, your best bet is electric. Typical electric chainsaw maintenance has to do with keeping the chain working properly. Keep the chain sharp and lubricated. And always make sure it’s not slack on the guide bar before use. Petrol chainsaws have an actual engine on board. So you’ll spend more time maintaining the engine while still having to keep the chain clean and sharp. You’ll need to change the oil regularly. Plus, change out oil and air filters when they’re dirty. You also need to maintain spark plugs, cooling vents, and carburettors on your petrol-powered machine. Noise & Safety All chainsaws make noise. But you’ll find that electric machines are significantly quieter than petrol machines. If you’re working in urban neighbourhoods, this is a big advantage. When safety is concerned, electric and petrol chainsaws are similar. They both require that you wear the right protective gear, including a vest, sleeves, gloves, and eyewear. Many chainsaws come with additional safety features. Check out the size and shape of the grab bar before you buy. You want this to be easy to hold and to fit well in your hand. Modern chainsaws have kickback reduction systems that help prevent dangerous kickback accidents. Many electric models have tip protectors to help with this. Although they are a great safety feature, they’ll limit the type of cuts you can make. Some petrol-powered saws have kill switches that let you quickly turn the saw off in an emergency. A safety throttle is a good feature as well. It keeps the saw from starting without the safety trigger engaged. Extra Features Extra features can turn an ordinary chainsaw into an extraordinary one. For example, electric saws have push-button starts. This type is much easier than petrol saws that have pull-cord starts. It’s also important to remember that with a petrol machine, you’ll need to run it on a mixture of oil and gas. Whereas corded and battery-powered saws can plug in anywhere. Do you need to trim high branches? If so, you can get a pole saw that has a long, extendable arm to reach higher areas. These come in corded, battery-powered, and petrol varieties. Certain models come with chain tension adjusters that don’t require you to use tools when the chain needs adjustment. Often, petrol saws have better bar-oiling systems than electric saws. This keeps the bar slick so the chain doesn’t stick while it’s working. If you opt for a petrol machine, you’ll have several sizes of oil tank to choose from. Obviously, the larger the tank, the longer you can go without a refill. But a bigger tank also means more weight to haul around. What Is the Right Chainsaw for Your Business?

Which Wheelbarrow is Best for Mixing Cement?

Mixing concrete and cement is a tough job—and it demands hand tools that are just as tough as the person using them. The best concrete tools are built to last, even under heavy loads and rough conditions. No one wants the headache of working with flimsy, inadequate gear. Fortunately, you can steer clear of that hassle entirely. When you’re gearing up for a project involving heavy-duty cement mixing, don’t rely on a small, light-duty wheelbarrow. Choose one that not only handles the job today but also stands strong for the next project. The Moss Wheelbarrow stands out as the top choice for managing concrete, thanks to its unmatched durability and strength. Its heavy-duty construction allows it to carry even the weight of wet concrete with ease, year after year. Its robust design gives it a clear edge, making it the go-to option for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. While the Paragon Rocket performs admirably, the Moss Wheelbarrow takes the lead with superior reliability and sturdiness in concrete-handling tasks. This article explores some of the best wheelbarrows for cement mixing and the features that make them ideal for the job. Premier Heavy Duty Moss Wheelbarrow Professionals and enthusiasts trust Moss Wheelbarrows because they deliver dependable performance across various construction and landscaping tasks with ease. With Moss wheelbarrow’s carrying capacity, the heavy duty aspect is a must. This barrow’s 110L tray capacity enables mixing a large amount of cement or concrete efficiently for various construction needs. This is 10L more concrete than many other similar heavy duty wheel barrows. This increased capacity, though, means an increase in weight. So how is this Moss wheelbarrow built to handle the load? One feature is its larger tray base. This design keeps more of the load closer to ground, improving stability by aligning it with the center of gravity. This translates to a much greater overall balance, even under the heavier load. The frame evenly distributes weight between the legs and tyre, providing stability exactly where the load naturally comes to rest. Speaking of the tyre–it comes with a rugged, 4-ply block pattern tyre. This provides excellent balance under heavy loads while moving across various surfaces, whether hard or soft, ensuring smooth transportation always. And it receives great customer feedback—just check their Facebook comments to see how highly people rate these wheelbarrows. Positive comments and high ratings reflect the wheelbarrow’s outstanding performance and durability. Consistent customer praise strengthens the Moss Wheelbarrow’s reputation as a dependable, top-rated choice for handling concrete and cement tasks. Moss Wheelbarrow’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and durability makes it a standout wheelbarrow for concrete or for those seeking a dependable and efficient tool for demanding tasks. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, Moss Wheelbarrows are designed to handle the toughest jobs with ease and longevity. The Moss Barrow is the best concrete wheelbarrow because it excels strength, and overall performance. It is specifically engineered to tackle the challenges of mixing and transporting heavy-duty materials such as cement. With sturdy construction, the Moss Barrow ensures reliability, exceeding expectations for anyone needing a wheelbarrow for demanding concrete project needs. When durability and efficiency are paramount, the Moss Wheelbarrow stands out as the optimal solution for all your concrete needs. Rocket Square Tray Heavy Duty Wheelbarrow A perfect option, especially for bricklayers and landscapers with a focus on block walls and paver and brick walkways and patios, is the Rocket Square Tray Heavy Duty Wheelbarrow. The Rocket Square Tray Heavy Duty Wheelbarrow features a square tray design, ideal for scooping concrete using a shovel efficiently. This design simplifies scooping materials like sand, gravel, or concrete mix directly from the tray using a standard shovel. The squared-off corners provide a convenient and stable surface for the shovel, allowing for easy and precise material transfer. The square tray’s flat edges help scrape sides while mixing and make guiding a shovel along the surface much easier. This is especially beneficial for professionals who require precision in material distribution and consistency in their work. The design allows users to maneuver the shovel easily within the tray, enabling smooth and controlled movements during use. This ease of use contributes to a reduction in manual effort and increases overall productivity on the job site. In practical terms, the compatibility with a shovel also minimizes material wastage. The square tray design ensures efficient scooping and material use, maximizing output and reducing waste during cement or concrete handling. This means you use more of your material investment effectively, reduce waste, and gain noticeable cost savings over time. Like the Moss Barrow, the Paragon Rocket features a frame that disperses heavy loads efficiently for better performance and balance. This is especially important over extended periods of mixing, where the weight of a load is going to put a strain on the different parts of a wheelbarrow’s frame from different directions, as opposed to simply carrying a static load. Get the Job Done Right With the Right Tools Trying to get a job done right, especially one dealing with tough materials like cement and concrete, with the wrong tools is a massive headache. Fortunately, it’s also a completely unnecessary problem to have. The right trowel is going to be made of metal of enough thickness and have a handle strong enough to last even with intense mixing of a heavy mixture. A steel shovel built for cement mixing must handle repeated heavy loads without bending, breaking, or wearing down quickly. The main tool used for mixing and transporting cement must be highly durable to withstand consistent, heavy-duty construction tasks. When mixing cement in wheelbarrow, you need the right wheelbarrow for the job. Next time you have a project come up that requires some heavy-duty cement mixing, don’t leave the job up to a small, light-duty wheelbarrow. Make sure you have a wheelbarrow for cement that’s not only up to the task at hand, but is for many more to come. Click on the links to any of the ones reviewed above to find

7 Reasons You Should Use A Chalk Line

Did you know that one of the best ways to ensure accuracy and save time on a construction project is to use a chalk line? This handy device allows you to skip the man-and-string efforts and cut to the chase with straight, long lines defining your work and goals. If you’re iffy about the necessity of this useful tool, here are 7 reasons you definitely want to use a chalk line to mark your next major construction project. 1. Greater Accuracy Even kindergartners know that drawing straight lines gets harder the longer the line you must draw. Hence, the need for an accurate tool to help you make sure your construction project doesn’t go wonky. Using a chalk line ensures you don’t end up with a wobble or bending line of work. No need to find a wood plank long enough or a hard ruler. You can save time and money as well by having one man marking concrete, wood, or other materials you’re planning on cutting into. Simply pin one end down, pull the line the distance you need to mark and snap. It’s really that easy. 2. Perfect for Painting Projects If you’re working on a project that needs large amounts of paint, but you need to clearly define where certain colours go, or mark areas for stripes, a chalk line will be your saving grace. It can take hours to mark just one wall for stripes when painting. Think how much time you’ll save if you’re working on an entire building. Chalk lines make it easy to create boundaries and paint over them when the time comes. They can save you on having to use up yards of painting tape or other markers in many cases. Chalk lines are especially useful in urban projects where various colours may be used in a more artsy way on the exterior of buildings. They can help you and your team know just where the burnt orange paint ends and the grey paint must begin. 3. Mark Professionally In the construction industry, you are bound to have lines so long that you’re unsure if, despite its accuracy, a chalk line will be visible. Luckily, chalk lines can be versatile and give you great accuracy and clarity even in the largest of projects. One method for using a chalk line to mark extremely long lines is to stretch your chalk line the full distance you need. Then, with a steady weight, weigh down the centre of the chalk line right in the middle of your line. This breaks your chalk line up into two separate lines so you can snap your chalk line twice. Snap one time on each end of the weight. Doing this makes sure that your now very straight line is marked in a darker, more clearly defined line of chalk. 4. Wood Cutting For projects involving wood, there is great room for human error when cutting. Instead of using a ruler or wobbly measuring tape to try and mark cut-lines on plywoods, use a chalk line. Chalk lines are particularly helpful if you must mark angles on plywood. Keep your angles even for cutting by using a small nail to hook one end of the chalk line and stretch it to your second point. This method can keep your team from marking uneven angles by doing it freehand with other tools. 5. Use for Cutting Drywall Another great use for your chalk line is to mark up your drywall. To make sure your angles are even before cutting and placing drywall, make a small slice in the drywall at one end of the angle line you plan to cut. Then, wedge your chalk line into the small slice. You then stretch the chalk line across the desired length of your angle and snap. Be sure to make the slit a little higher than your angle mark line so that when the chalk line is extended right before snapping, the tension of the snap will bring the line down to hit the mark dead on. 6. Cutting Hard Materials Like Brick, Stone, Concrete, etc. As any construction tradesmen knows, cutting irregular surfaces, or hard materials like concrete can present a real challenge. If you are in the middle of laying shingles on a roof and have an uneven surface, it’s nearly impossible to mark a straight line by hand. Chalk lines can be wedged into small cut marks on shingles to show you where that cut needs to occur to lay shingles perfectly on a slanting rooftop. You can keep a line totally straight by snapping a chalk line across laid brick or concrete blocks. No more need to worry about misshapen lines caused by the bumps or cracks between bricks. Chalk lines are also an effective method for marking stone or any other irregular construction materials. The powdery, but clear, mark a chalk line gives you is caused by the tension between your two points. It is much easier to keep a chalk line straight than to draw a mark by hand with spray paint or pencils. 7. Create the Perfect Room Frame During projects that require you to build a room frame, a chalk line helps you mark the walls to indicate the frame outline. Frame angles are also easier to see with chalk marks indicating their placement. Your project will end up with a clean, perfect look if you use the chalk line to mark the levelness of your frame before building and inserting the frame. This tool helps you mark angles to guide the frame into place without error. Chalk Lines are Just the Beginning Chalk lines are the perfect tool for large construction projects that require perfect accuracy. Finish with a professional look and avoid dangerous mistakes by creating perfectly straight lines and angles with a chalk line. Check out our list of general building supplies to prep you and your team for your next big project. We’ve got you covered with everything from industrial vacuum cleaners, to

10 Pieces of Construction Safety Equipment To Help You Build A Safe Workspace

563,600 Australian workers experienced injuries on the job in 2018. That’s why construction site safety should be the first priority of every construction team. Just like other industries, construction comes with its own set of hazards. Without the proper construction safety equipment, the lives of construction workers get put at risk. Having safety protocols is a must for construction companies. Here is a construction safety equipment list that every construction worker should have access to: 1. Hardhats People who visit construction sites often think that they can get away without wearing a hardhat. Since they aren’t actually working, they don’t have to wear head protection, right? Wrong. Projects that involve heights always pose the threat of falling objects. Any worker or visitor who doesn’t have a hardhat can suffer serious head injuries from falling objects. Hardhats have special materials to protect the head. They’re made of high-density polyethylene, and sometimes come equipped with noise-canceling features, face shields, and even a radio. 2. Foot Protection Falls made up 14% of workplace fatalities in 2016. Unfortunately, many fatal falls occur due to tripping or slipping. Unsafe scaffolding or ladders can make the situation even more hazardous. Proper footwear is one of the most essential safety products in preventing falls. Construction workers should wear shoes that are both slip-proof and resistant to punctures. Steel-toed boots can also come in handy for protecting a worker’s feet. Falling objects always have the risk of injuring a worker’s feet, resulting in broken bones and the inability to walk. 3. Gloves Cuts, burns, and punctures are the most common hand injuries among construction workers. With the right construction safety gear, workers won’t have to be sent to the emergency room with debilitating hand injuries. The majority of workers who experience hand injuries don’t wear gloves or don’t wear the correct type of gloves. Workers need to put gloves on whenever they deal with sharp objects, handle chemicals, or experience extreme weather. A simple pair of gloves doesn’t cut it. Commercial-grade gloves with a strong grip can keep workers safe. 4. Fire Blankets The possibility of a fire exists at a construction site, especially if the work involves electrical equipment. Fires can be started by damaged electrical wires, cables, or pipes. Having safety materials for construction fires can save lives and minimise fire damage. Fire blankets made out of fire-resistant material can help. When a fire blanket gets placed over a fire, the blanket cuts off the fire’s oxygen supply and successfully extinguishes it. In the case of an emergency, it can be thrown over a fire to quickly prevent it from burning when a fire extinguisher isn’t around. 5. Visibility Equipment When a construction crew works on a bridge or road, it’s crucial for them to wear visibility equipment. Reflective clothing and bright colours worn by workers allow drivers to easily spot them from a distance. Workers that don’t wear reflective jackets, vests, trousers, or jumpsuits increase their chances of being hit by a car or causing a car accident. 6. Vehicles with Safety Features Before heading to a construction zone, all vehicles should be tested to make sure their safety features work. Many construction workers are injured or killed by malfunctioning vehicles and construction equipment. Some items that all vehicles should have include loud horns, a back-up alarm, clear safety glass, functioning mirrors, working seatbelts, bright headlights, and brake lights, as well as proper windshield wipers. 7. Eye Protection Safety glasses, or a face shield, is required when working in a construction site. Injuries to the eye or face are usually caused by objects that penetrate the eye. Welding, cutting, using nails, and concrete work put workers at a higher risk for eye or face injuries. Jobs that involve smoke, utility work, and toxic chemicals can also pose a threat to safety. It’s essential for construction companies to ensure that each employee wears safety glasses when dealing with flying objects, gases, acids, molten metal, and other hazards. 8. Barricades and Signs It might seem obvious to place barricades or signs near a construction site, but it’s sometimes overlooked. Having visible signs can alert drivers of a construction zone. This prevents drivers from speeding through a work area or accidentally driving through a construction zone. Proper signage not only enhances the safety of motorists, but it also prevents injury or death of construction workers. 9. Safe Ladders Ladders cause some of the most accidents among construction workers. This is often due to incorrect ladder usage or a damaged ladder. Before workers use a ladder, they should always inspect it. Checking for grease, dirt, broken rails, and damaged rungs can prevent tragic slip and falls. If a ladder is found to be defective, it should always be properly marked. Metal ladders should also not be used around any electrical work area. 10. Bridge Access Tools Bridge workers often get injured or killed by falling off of a higher bridge level and onto a lower area. This mostly occurs when workers don’t use the correct equipment to reach certain areas of the bridge. Many workers utilize makeshift ways to access areas, but that’s not safe. Equipment like bridge walkers, hydra platforms, UBITs, and Paxton-Mitchel snoopers can allow workers to safely access all sections of a bridge. For example, bridge walkers allow workers to be lowered 20 feet under a bridge, while a hydro platform can place workers 35 feet under a bridge. Finding the Right Construction Safety Equipment for the Job Safety protocols should never go ignored on a construction site. The proper construction safety equipment should be enforced by employers and workers alike. Something as simple as a hardhat or a construction sign can prevent accidents. Whether the job is big or small, it’s important to be equipped with protective gear just in case. One single misstep or error can have disastrous results on a construction site. Now that you have the right safety equipment, it’s time to invest in your building tools. Check out our article about why purchasing high-quality tools can help you grow your construction business.