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Have you ever filled in a hole and come back the next day to find a sunken area where your previously levelled ground was? If so, you probably learned a valuable lesson that day, compacting correctly is key. But you may not know how to go about choosing the right tool for the job and what the tools even are?  Tamping rammers are better for clay soils and smaller areas. They compact the soil through impact. Plate compactors are best for gravel, sand or silt and larger areas and compact through vibration. Consider your soil type and size of the job when choosing a tamping rammer vs plate compacter. If you’re a tradesman or even a DIYer, you know how important your tools are. Choosing the right one saves time, energy, and money. We’ll explain how soil type and job size affect tool performance. You’ll also see why it’s essential to use the right tool for the job. Once you understand these factors, you can confidently choose the perfect tool to meet your needs. Tamping rammer vs plate compacters Tamping rammers are stronger and will compact deeper with clay soils but can’t be used with granular soils. Plate compacters are not as strong but can be used on larger areas and can also be used on all soils. Like with most things in life, there cannot be a simple answer to this question but it is clear that plate compactor, also known as vibratory plates, are more versatile than rammers – which are also known as Jumping Jacks. You will have to first determine what soil you are working with and the size of your job before you will be able to know which compacting tool you should have. If you are going to be doing a multitude of different jobs, the best thing you can do for yourself and the people working with you is to get both. The time you save by using the right tool will pay you back tenfold.  What are Rammers and Compactors used for? Rammers and compactors are used to compact soil. They create sturdy level ground for strong foundations or beautiful landscapes. Every contractor worth half his salt knows that dirt improperly compacted can spell disaster for any construction project. These tools are used on every job, from the smallest of sidewalks to the tallest tower, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Without them ensuring level ground for solid foundations we would have collapsed roads and sidewalks, and our skyscrapers would be tumbling down.  What is the difference between a rammer and a plate compactor? The difference between a rammer and a plate compactor revolves around it’s compaction method. A plate compactor uses vibration to encourage the soil to condense whereas a rammer compacts the soil through hitting the ground with force. A plate compactor is easier to use, a rammer requires you to have significant strength and vigilance- it delivers blows to the ground right near your feet. Plate Compactor Tamper Rammer Horizontal Design Upright Design Larger Areas Smaller Areas Granular Soils Cohesive Soils Vibratory Force Impact Force Easy Use Professional Use What should I use to compact soils? To compact soil, you should use either a tamping rammer or a plate compactor. If you have ever tried to compact soil without the right tools, you know it’s a near-impossible task. No matter how much you weigh, stomping the dirt is just not going to get it packed down correctly. Having a compactor in your arsenal is a must for anyone needing to compact soil. However, the type of soil you are working with will determine what tool is right for you. How do you compact granular soil?: Plate compactors are best for compacting gravel, sand and silt, which is granular soil. Basically it is more efficient to use a plate compacter on any soil type that does not stick together when picked up. It’s rare to find clods of granular soil, and even when wet, you won’t be making mud pies with it as this soil type does not hold water. Plate compactors work through a mixture of force and vibrations. They have a large surface area, and the plate vibrates up and down with extreme pressure to compact the soil beneath it. However, plate compactors do not have as much overt strength as a tamping rammer, so it is important to make sure you aren’t trying to pack down more than six inches at a time. So if you are wondering what can I use to compact gravel and sand? then a plate compactor is your answer. Which type of compaction is suitable for cohesive soil? Tamping rammers, which are also known as jumping jacks, are the best tool for compacting wet, clay filled soils which also known as cohesive soil. This soil type may have a lot of clay in it, or in simple terms, if it were to rain it would hold the water. It’s excellent for mud baths and mud fights but can be a pain on the job site when trying to compact. It can be a struggle to compact, because unlike granular soil, cohesive soil needs a specific percentage of moisture to compact correctly. But once you have that figured out, your rammer is going to be the clear star in this soil category. The tamping rammer has a smaller plate, compacting the soil through intense impacts. Because of its strength, you can compact deeper areas than you would be able to with a plate compactor. Due to the smaller plate, however, the area you compact at one time will be smaller. So if you are wondering, how do you compact cohesive soil? then a tamping rammer is your answer. What should I use to compact large areas? To compact a large area, the plate compactor will often be the better choice. The large plate allows you to cover a much larger space in a shorter amount of time. While granular soil

When it comes to laying concrete, nothing can weaken its stability more than air bubbles which become trapped and aren’t smoothed out. This is where concrete vibration comes in to solve this common problem throughout the construction industry. While there are numerous variations of concrete vibration, this building code requirement is vital to laying a solid concrete foundation. To learn more about the most essential concrete vibrator techniques and how to master the art of laying smooth concrete, just keep on reading. Understanding Concrete Vibrator Basics When concrete is mixed and poured, the inevitable result is a concrete mixture which contains thousands of air bubbles. Any solid or weight-bearing structure would be compromised by having a concrete foundation riddled with air bubbles. The solution to this tricky construction conundrum? Concrete vibrations which vigorously shake the poured concrete until these air bubbles disappear. Also known as concrete consolidation, this process in any building project is mandatory according to the Building Code of Australia (BCA). This being said, the laying of concrete and its consolidation requires a good amount of planning. Here are a few essential items to keep in mind for your next concrete vibration project: The ideal mixture of concrete aggregate Accurate measurements of concrete slump before it sets Tightly sealed forms to prevent leakage A reliable and easily accessible power source An adequate number of concrete vibrators Sufficient time set aside for concrete vibration Sufficient manpower for the concrete laying and vibration project Backup equipment in case of equipment failure It’s important to go into every concrete pouring and consolidation job with these items checked off your list. Variations of Concrete Vibration Throughout the construction industry there are three variations of concrete vibration: 1. Formwork Recommended for precast concrete work, this form of vibration uses external electric or air-driven concrete vibrators. They are usually mounted to the exterior formwork and are ideal for larger pours of concrete. External vibrators are usually placed 15 centimetres apart. 2. Surface This form of concrete vibration works best on concrete pours which are no deeper than 15 centimetres (6 inches). Large concrete vibrators, known as jumpers, are typically used for this type of project. The vibrators are directed manually across the surface of a concrete slab and are ideal for creating a smooth, aesthetically pleasing finish. 3. Internal This is the most commonly used form of concrete vibration throughout the industry. These types of concrete vibrators are handled by a single operator and are electric or pneumatically driven. The process is relatively simple; the worker jams the vibrator down into the concrete, slowly withdrawing it to remove all air pockets. Timing Requirements Throughout the construction industry, the process of concrete vibration tends to be rushed due to impending deadlines. However, this is a process which requires time well spent and plenty of attention in order to secure a solid foundation of concrete. If using an internal concrete vibration technique, the rule-of-thumb is to withdraw the vibrator slowly from the concrete. This is generally at a rate of 2.5 centimetres per second. If bubbles still emerge as the concrete vibrator is withdrawn, the area still requires vibration. On the other hand, it’s also important to avoid holding the vibrator in the concrete too long as the water and aggregates will separate. This can compromise the overall structure and aesthetics of the concrete. Choosing the Best Concrete Vibrator For the Job This largely depends on the type of concrete mixture you’re working with on a construction project. Generally, high frequency, low amplitude vibrators work best for high mortar concrete mixes. While low frequency, high amplitude vibrators work best for stiff concrete. It’s important to choose the best type of vibration style as well as the ideal frequency and amplitude of your vibrator to achieve the best outcome. Essential Vibration Techniques to Remember In order to achieve the best possible outcome on a concrete pouring project, these essential vibration techniques should help you out: Always remember to have a spare concrete vibrator or two, depending on the size of the project Keep in mind that low slump (stiffer) concrete will always require more vibration time Some concrete forms are self-consolidating, meaning they require no vibration treatment Always ensure your concrete vibration penetrates through to previous layers of pre-poured concrete (at least 15 centimetres) Always insert your concrete vibrator as close to the vertical as possible to maximize its effect If you over-bend or over-extend the vibrator there’s a chance it will fail Avoid being tempted to use the vibrator as a concrete placement tool, causing the concrete surface to become uneven Each concrete vibration should be at least 10 seconds in length Remember to withdraw the vibrator from the concrete at a rate of 2 centimetres per second Always ensure the vibrator is fully submerged into the concrete for maximum effect Always ensure the radius of action of the vibrator is four times the size of the vibrator tip diameter When air no longer escapes from the concrete during vibration, you know the area has been vibrated sufficiently Avoid turning on the concrete vibrator before it’s properly submerged in the concrete Never force a vibrator down into concrete as it could come into contact with steel rebar and be damaged You’ll know it’s time to stop vibration when the concrete begins to take on a sheen Always double-check the concrete area hasn’t been previously vibrated by co-workers before starting on a job Looking for High-Quality Tradesman Tools? If you’re in the construction industry and on the hunt for a top quality concrete vibrator, rest assured Canberra Diamond Blade supplies it. Save yourself time and money when looking for the best trade tools for the job by shopping at our online store. We offer tools and machinery for bricklayers, concreters and specialty cutting and grinding applications. Looking for something very specific? Don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Everyone is grateful for the construction industry. Not only do construction workers build our homes, offices, and businesses but they also repair and fix our roads. However, they have to deal with some less than ideal working conditions such as dealing with construction dust. If you work in the industry and want to protect your workers against dust, check out these 9 tips. 1. Water The easiest and most affordable way to reduce construction dust is water. The use of misted water prevents all those dust particles from flying around and endangering your workers and attaching to everything in site. Depending on how large the site is, a sprayer truck can go around and mist the area. It’s important to keep the soil damp, so it might need to be reapplied about three times a day. However, it’s important to note too much water is also bad. Excess water can cause issues of its own such as runoff and erosion. Make sure you find a nice balance. 2. Dust Extractor Vacuums To help you trap fine construction dust, a dust extractor vacuum it the right tool for the job. The DE120 HEPA is exactly what you need to trap dust in any form of commercial application. If you’re worried you and your workers will breathe in harmful dust particles, an extractor vacuum handles plaster and concrete, building grinding, and others. Aside from the original features, this vacuum can also be used as a standard wet and dry vacuum capable of picking up construction dust and harmful debris. You’ll also be glad to know this extractor is compatible with shot blasters, handheld power tools, and even small scarifiers. 3. Dust Separators If you want to get rid of 93.3% of construction dust before it even reaches the vacuum unit, then you need to try a separator. For example, the Cyclone Supa Separator catches all of the construction dust before the vacuum cleaner even begins to work. This dust separator has a tank with a capacity of 50 litres. The separator typically goes between the vacuum or extractor, and the grinder. With the help of this separator, you can extend the life of the extractor or vacuum cleaner filter. A separator will also increase efficiency because you’ll be able to use your machines a lot longer without having to clean and empty dust compartments. 4. Dust Collector Once construction dust particles become airborne, they can create all kinds of health complications for those who breathe them in. To stop this from happening and harming your workers you need to put your construction dust collector to work. The dust collector S13 by Husqvarna comes equipped with three filters. The first filter is a cyclone chamber and in this chamber, the heavier particles are separated and even 95 percent dust. Next is the conical main filter, which is a washable filter. This filter ensures continuous air flow for more efficiency. The third filter is the HEPA microfilters. These are individual filters that can capture up to 99.99% of the remaining dust. 5. Wet and Dry Dust Extractor This vacuum has the capacity to collect dust in either wet or dry modes. The ADE25 uses a two-stage filtration system to collect all of the dust. The automatic FilterShaker makes it convenient and offers uninterrupted dust extraction. With the help of the shakers, the dust particles are loosened and it prevents the equipment from clogging. 6. Mulch and Vegetation Using vegetation and mulch as dust control is a type of “set it and forget it” method to deal with this problem. All you have to do to maintain the mulch and vegetation is to occasionally water it. The mulch and vegetation will act as a cover that will go on top of the loose and exposed soil to control the dust. You will notice the dust will stay trapped in the mulch even when it gets windy. You might also be able to add a bit more grass for some extra protection. In fact, grass will provide the most protection from the wind. 7. Air Scrubbers Even with the best methods, dust will get all over the place and get trapped in places for months. The way air scrubbers work is by capturing the dust from a construction site once it becomes airborne. This method works better when it’s used for indoor construction. These machines are not that large and can fit into smaller spaces such as if you’re remodeling a home. The scrubber vacuums the dust from the air and filters it before sending it out the window. 8. Barriers Dust barries work by keeping dust from traveling from a construction area to a non-construction area. These barriers are also known as zipwalls because it keeps the dust contained in one area. You might have seen these barriers before in office buildings getting remodelled or even at department stores. The contractor should be able to decide how the dust will move from room to room, to then add the barriers accordingly and prevent the dust from leaving the construction area. Of course, some dust will probably escape the area as people go in and out, but for the most part, it will be contained. 9. Stone Barriers Stone barriers to control dust on constructions sites are mostly used outside. These barriers can help with dust mostly in road construction. The stones will trap the dust from traveling far from the construction site. Also, builders tend to use stone as a replacement for mulch and vegetation in areas where the ground is dry. When working in an area susceptive to high winds, some builders prefer to use 8-inch stones instead of smaller stones. Put an End to Construction Dust Depending on the type of job, there are many ways to control construction dust. Some prefer to use simple tools such as water, mulch and vegetation, and stone barriers. While others prefer dust separators, air wet and dry vacuums, and dust extractors. If you’re a contractor

Do you often find yourself cutting wood for hours on end? If so, you’re probably familiar with some aches and pains, as well as a lack of time for other elements of your current project. If you’re looking for a more efficient way to cut wood, consider getting a wood splitter! Wood splitters are great, powerful machines, that will get the job done for you. Purchasing one will save you time, as well as sore muscles. There are lots of wood splitters on the market, so how do you know what kind of wood splitter you need? To help you in your search, we’ve put together this convenient guide. Keep reading to learn how to choose the right wood splitter for you. Do I Need a Wood Splitter? Wood splitters can be pricey, so it’s fair to ask yourself if you really need one. If you cut lots of wood, or cut wood often, we’d suggest that you do. Wood splitters don’t only save you time and strain. You’ll also reap the benefits of having wood pieces that are uniformly cut. And, wood splitters are great investments, as long as you maintain them properly. While they will cost you a bit up front, the benefits far outweigh the costs. Types of Wood Splitters Once you’ve decided to buy a wood splitter, you’ll need to decide which type you want. There are three types of wood splitters to choose from: gas, electric, and manual. Gas Wood Splitters Gas-powered wood splitters are great for splitting tough, large lots. They aren’t as convenient as electric splitters, though, and they will cost you more. This type of splitter is bulky and you’ll need to make sure you have proper ventilation during use. But, if you do heavy splitting, this could be the right option for you. Electric Wood Splitters Electric splitters are great for use indoors and outdoors. You’ll be able to use them indoors because they lack the fumes that accompany gas-powered splitters. You won’t need to worry about blowing a fuse. Though powerful, electric splitters are fine to use with regular household-level voltage. And, they normally come with a feature that prevents short-circuiting. Electric wood splitters are convenient, as well as inexpensive. Manual Wood Splitters A manual wood splitter? That’s your arms, right? While it may sound that way, a manual wood splitter is still better than swinging an ax all day. While you’ll only get about 10 tonnes of splitting capacity, this option is the cheapest route. A manual wood splitter will obviously require more time to use than an automatic wood splitter, but it will be easier to move. Choosing Tonnage Now that you know the types and you’ve chosen which one is best for you, you’re probably asking “what size wood splitter do I need?” You’re right to ask because wood splitters aren’t a one-size-fits-all kind of tool. You’ll need to understand the differences between sizes if you want to get the best fit for you. First, consider the wood you’ll be cutting. What do you cut most often? Or what are you most likely to cut? Make sure you choose a splitter that can handle the largest, toughest logs you plan to cut. You’ll need a stronger wood splitter if you plan to cut larger logs. Greener wood also requires more force. If you’re looking to split logs around 500mm to 600mm long, try our 35-tonne wood splitter from Lifan. We have a range of the best wood splitters so get in touch! If you’ll only be cutting small, seasoned wood, a 4-tonne splitter will suffice. Buying Checklist Once you know the type and size of wood splitter you’re looking for, it’s time to get shopping. As you look around there are several things you should look for in each splitter. Make sure the splitter has a powerful motor. Cutting through logs isn’t for the weak-hearted, or weak-motored in this case. Make sure the splitter will do the job right and be reliable for a long period of time. Check to see if the splitter comes with a warranty. If you’re able, read the terms to see what the warranty covers. Do a little research to find out which manufacturers are trustworthy. Don’t automatically go with the cheapest option you find. There may be a good reason why it’s the cheapest. Look for ratings and reviews. Find out what actual users have to say about the splitter in question. And make sure the splitter has built-in safety features. These may include shielded control levers, added stability, and an emergency stop option. Extra Things to Consider While these may not be must-haves depending on your situation, they’re helpful things to ask yourself. Is the splitter adjustable? Will it fit multiple sizes of logs? Does it have wheels or some other way of being moved easily? What sort of cycle time does the splitter have? A quicker time means you’ll be more productive. You may also want to consider how comfortably you can operate the splitter. While that may seem like a trivial thing to base your choice on, think about it. You may be using this tool often or for extended periods of time. Go with something that will cause you the least amount of strain possible. Choose something the right height for you and that has ergonomic handles. The Right Wood Splitter for You A wood splitter is an invaluable tool for anyone working in an industry that involves a lot of wood cutting. Whether you’re the owner or a manager, implementing a wood splitter into your operations is a great thing to consider. Spend your time more efficiently by getting more done in shorter periods of time. And spare you and/or your workers the strain of repeated ax-swinging by letting the machine do the job for you. Still want to stick with a chainsaw? We have a great blog to guide you on your way. Read up on safely using your chainsaw here. Convinced? Contact us

Diamond blades have become one of the most popular choices for cutting brick, asphalt, concrete and other materials. Not only this, they are highly versatile, and can perform a complete list of construction tasks. If you are new to the game, there are a few things you should know before you put the blade in. CDBS Construction and Garden Centre have put together a few tips on how to use a diamond blade as a beginner. 1. The Right Blade is Imperative Although it might seem obvious that when cutting a building material you need to use the right blade, but when it comes to diamond blades there are different models that are correct to use for differing materials. For example, you may be using a blade that has not been designed for cutting asphalt. The repercussion of this is that the asphalt will wear that blade down faster than if you were using a proper asphalt cutting blade. You should always ensure that the blade you are purchasing is right to use for the material you are cutting. 2. Make Sure to Check the Arbor Shaft In order to maintain healthy longevity for your diamond blade, ensure that you check the arbor shaft before you commence cutting. Movement will create an uneven breakdown of your diamond blade, and can even be as bad as warping the blade if the movement is too great. Check your arbor shaft by moving it back and forward. See if you can notice unwanted movement, and if the table shaft is moving or wobbling, it should be further maintained or repaired before reusing the blade. 3. Your First Cut: Precautions You shouldn’t rush into cutting with a new blade – ease into it. Otherwise, you will be making the blade susceptible to extreme pressure and stress for its first ever cut. By easing into your first cut you are working towards maintaining the blade’s strength and longevity. A good way to avoid putting this stress on the blade is by performing your first cut on a material other than concrete or asphalt. This will also help to notice if your blade has any troubles before proper use. You should also consider using a damp or wet blade for your first cut: this will also reduce abrasions which have the potential of damaging a new blade. 4. Check the Material’s Surface One thing many people forget to do when cutting is checking the material’s surface. The first thing you should take notice of is the level of the material surface. The surface should be flat and clean. If the surface is neither flat or clean you could risk damaging the blade as well as an uneven cut which wastes the material. If the material contains unwanted debris it can also damage the blade, and if the debris is strong enough it can even cause the blade to require repair or replacement. All you have to do is sweep the material and area you are cutting, this will ensure that the level is smooth and without unwanted debris. If you use these tips for your first cut you should be able to ensure a clean first cut that is also safe for the blade. If you have any further enquiries on using the diamond blade, feel free to get in contact with our team by calling us on 02 6242 8996.

A commercial vacuum cleaner is one of the most important parts of your business. Anything from janitorial services to restaurants can’t survive without a heavy-duty vacuum cleaner. But the right type of vacuum for your business relies on how you plan to use it. Keep reading to learn more about what you should look for when you’re buying a commercial vacuum cleaner. What Makes a Vacuum Cleaner Commercial? Most people use their home vacuum cleaners a few times a month. Residential vacuum cleaners are designed for this type of use. If someone were to use them in as a professional cleaning tool, it wouldn’t last long. Commercial vacuum cleaners are both more powerful and more durable than home vacuum cleaners. Even though professionals use them for heavy-duty, continues use, they last longer than other vacuums. These vacuum cleaners also come with commercial power cords. Why is this important? Most cleaning businesses have specific safety guidelines they must follow. Commercial power cords help keep the business within these safety parameters. Things to Consider About Commercial Vacuum Cleaners Commercial vacuum cleaners come in different shapes and sizes depending on the type of job you need them for. So there are several things you need to consider before buying one. To make sure you get the one that’s right for you, you should pay close attention to these features. Bagged or Bagless Because you don’t have to keep buying new bags when you run out, bagless vacuum cleaners can be less expensive than the alternative. But this doesn’t mean bagless vacuum cleaners don’t have parts that you’ll need to replace. Bagless vacuum cleaners have more filters than bagged vacuum cleaners. To keep your vacuum in working condition, you’ll have to clean these filters and replace them from time to time. Emptying a bagless vacuum is a dusty job. People who have trouble with allergies or asthma might experience symptoms while doing this chore. Using bags keeps all the dust in one place, so it’s easier to empty. But when you use bags, you run the risk of running out of them and being unable to work. There isn’t one type of vacuum cleaner that’s better. You have to pick the one that suits your needs, whether that includes bags or not. HEPA Filtration System When you vacuum the floor, you’re throwing things like dust, pollen, and other allergens into the air. This is why vacuum cleaners have some kind of air filter. But they don’t all use HEPA filters. HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air or High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestance, and these certified filters remove most of the particulates that get into their air while you’re vacuuming. If you want to keep the air free of allergens while you’re working, you’ll want to use a HEPA filter. While there are many other kinds of filtrations systems, HEPA filters keep the air cleaner than many others. Other Features Your Commercial Vacuum Cleaner Should Have Again, your commercial vacuum cleaner might need different features depending on how you’re planning to use it. However, your vacuum should have several, if not all, of the features below. Here’s a quick list of things to look for in your commercial vacuum cleaner. Height Adjustment When you switch from a hard surface to a carpet or from a thick carpet to a thinner carpet, the vacuum must go through a height adjustment. The reason you need to pay close attention to this features is because some vacuums require manual adjustment. If you want to vacuum different types of surfaces without turning the vacuum cleaner off and on again, look for a vacuum that has an automatic adjustment. Edge Cleaning Some commercial vacuums come with additional brushes along the edges of the power head. These come in handy if you need to clean the baseboards and walls as you go. Hardfloor Operation Not all vacuum cleaners work well on hard floors. For example, most canister vacuums need a specific cleaning head to vacuum these floors in an efficient way. If you have to clean hard floors, you need to pick a vacuum cleaner that can handle the job. Usually, upright vacuum cleaners don’t have a problem with hard floors. But make sure you double check the hard floor features on your commercial vacuum. Roller Brush Type You’ll want to be able to turn the roller brush, or brushroll, on and off. If you can’t it can scatter dirt and dust all over the place when you’re vacuuming hard surfaces. Some roller brushes have different power level settings, some are powered by motors, some are powered by suction. Make sure your roller brush can do what you need it to do. Cord The length of your cord depends on what kind of rooms you need to vacuum. Standard commercial cord length is anywhere from 35 feet to 40 feet. But if you’ll be vacuuming larger rooms, you might want a cord as long 50 feet. You can also find cordless vacuum cleaners if the building you’re vacuuming doesn’t have enough outlets. These vacuums use rechargeable batteries instead of electrical cords. Hose Diameter This might not be what you first think of when you’re looking at commercial vacuum cleaners, but it’s an important feature. Most hoses are about 1 1/4 inches or 2 inches in diameter. But does 3/4 of an inch really make that much of a difference? For one thing, it’s easier to store a smaller hose. But this sized hose can’t handle the same amount of dust and dirt as a larger hose. Light vacuuming does fine with a smaller hose, but if you need to do some heavy-duty vacuuming, you’ll want a bigger hose. Noise Level If you have to vacuum in areas with other people, like an office building, you’ll want a quiet vacuum cleaner. Some vacuum cleaners have different noise levels that can get as quiet as a normal conversation. What to Know About Your Commercial Vacuum Cleaner The kind of features you should look for

Core drilling—usually done with a core drilling machine—involves extracting a core from specific parts of a wall or concrete slab. This process helps assess the strength of the material. When buying a core drilling machine, make sure to consider your specific needs. Hiring a professional sawing or concrete drilling company is always the best option for cutting or drilling concrete. But if you decide to do it yourself, follow these five essential tips to ensure you do the job properly—and achieve great results. Selecting the Correct Drilling Machine There are a variety of different drill machines available for testing concrete strength, and a reliable core drilling machine is one such option. You can either purchase or rent these products, but if you are looking to make core drilling a regular aspect of your building process they are a sound investment. Core handheld drills produce holes of up to a diameter of three inches. However, if you are looking to successfully spring test concrete for its strength, it is necessary to drill a hole of at least 3.7 inches in diameter. There are no handheld drills available for this purpose and you require a drill stand unit or rig-mounted drill machine. Those looking to purchase one of these units should search for a model with multi-function uses. This allows for greater value for money. You can use these models for both electrical/plumbing holes as well as dowel-hole drilling. Finding the Right Attachment Depending on where you are looking to drill specific holes, specific stands are needed. When drilling on slabs, for example, it is necessary that you use a vacuum stand with suction power. This way, the mechanism of the core drilling machine will stay attached to the floor. In these instances, it is unnecessary to drill an anchor hole. When core drilling the wall, it is necessary to secure the stand. This is done through the use of safety chains which take away the risk of accidental slips. Think About Power Options There are three available options for powering the core drill. They are air-powered, electric and hydraulic sources. The availability of power and work environment at the site defines which source is necessary for your drilling requirements. Different models allow appropriate speed choices regarding hole size and concrete hardness. Drill Depth is Important One foot long bits can successfully deal with regular core drilling requirements. When drilling requirements grow higher than this, it is important to use barrel bits. These barrel bits are extensions which provide a deeper drill, compared to that of the size of the pre-existing cutting bits. You can change to increased depths if your requirements differ, but remember to consider the style of extension which can provide the best results in varying drilling scenarios. Selecting Your Diamond Bit You must consider the aggregate hardness and psi of the concrete material before choosing the right diamond bit. The core diamond bit must be in accurate proportion to the surface or drilling material to get the best results. Remember this rule: construction workers usually use a soft diamond bond for drilling on hard surfaces, and a harder bond for drilling on soft surfaces. Although there is no defined solution, you should always use your discretion based on the scenario when selecting your diamond bit. Our range of core drill bits is especially constructed to core concrete, reinforced concrete, concrete block, hard stone, and brick. If you have any further enquiries about how to successfully conduct core drilling for your project, feel free to get in contact with the team at Canberra Diamond Blade by calling 02 6242 8996 or by submitting an enquiry form on our contact page.

Smartphone apps have become a huge aspect of daily tradie operations. So it is important that you have the best apps for your business. The best apps for a tradie are the apps that make the nitty gritty and boring admin work a breeze. Apps that are a collective hub for invoicing, quoting, making payments and finding work are the apps you need as a tradesman. The best tradie apps will keep you organised, in control and on top of your work.  All tradies and construction workers will tell you that investing in the correct tools for the job sets you up for the success of a business. Using the right software for the job is no different. When you have the right apps, you can save time, money and nuisance when running a trade business. With software helping to streamline the whole process, it is imperative that you are on point with the right apps for your business. Is there a tradie app? There are lots of great apps out there that can help you organsie your invoices and payments as a tradie. When you’re on the job and you’re dirty and tired, maybe even on a loud work site – clikcing a few simple buttons on an app can save you time and effort. You can communicate with your clients regarding payments and scheduling in a much more efficient way by using an app. Can you use PayPal app for work? PayPal is great app to use as  tradesman. Paypal is the world’s number one payment system. It is a quick and effective platform for the safe and smart transfer of money between clients and professionals. Why It’s Effective: Quick payments: Using your PayPal account or bank card, you can quickly and simply make payments through app or internet browsing. Smartphone swipe payments: PayPal allows business owners to process payments on-the-move. All you have to do is attach the encrypted card reader to your smartphone and your employees can process payments on location, in real time. Fixed rates: The rates stay the same, no cheeky surprises with PayPal. You make a sum based on what you provide, as well as where your client is located. What is the Tradify app? The Tradify app makes managing your workflow a breeze. Times, materials, quoting and invoicing are made easier by Tradify as it brings a myriad of time and money-saving tools into the equation. Why is it effective for tradies: Simple job management: From the beginning with quotes, all the way to final invoices, Tradify provides the business owner with a tool for keeping on top of workflow. Scheduling systems: This helps to keep operations tight, as it allows staff to know when they must arrive to a job or meeting. Easy quoting: Quoting made. Utilise Tradify’s custom templates and supplier price lists to take away the nuisance of client quoting. Simple invoicing: The collating of receipts and time sheets helps streamline invoices to clients. This way you will always be paid on time. Xero synching: Integrate your system with Xero. This will help keep your accounts and books running smoothly. What is Xero? Xero is an easy-to-use cloud-based accounting software. It is one of the world’s best apps for accounting software, and it is appropriate for professional tradies. Why is it effective for tradies: One solution for payroll and accounting: Xero allows ultimate simplicity by combining accounting and payroll, alleviating the need for double entry Automatic bank feeds: Xero allows you to see the exact location of ingoing and outgoing payments in a matter of minutes, effectively ending the worry of cash hanging around in limbo. App connectivity: Xero connects itself with over 500 other apps in the Xero App Marketplace, thus furthering its ease of use for tradies. How do I connect my tradify to Xero? Connecting your apps is great way to ensure you’re covering all areas of the court. You can find out how to connect your Tradify and Xero apps here. Free Quote and Invoice Templates for Tradies Here at CDBS Construction Centre we want to make things as easy as possible for you. While paid apps can offer a huge range of benefits for managing your business we have pulled together a couple of templates that might help you out. Free Invoice Template The following invoicing template that we have built in Excel is a great little free tool that we offer to our tradies. All you need to do is to type in your items and quantities, and the template will auto-calculate your GST and totals. It also references the Security of Payments Act. This can be helpful if you come across clients who like to pay late. Download the Free Invoice Template Free Quote Template: Are you still writing your quotes on the back of your business card? Or worse still, on the brown paper bag your lunch was in? If you’re not ready to use professional software, but want to look just as professional as tradies that do, our free quote template in Excel will do the job. It is auto calculating, so just pop your items and quanities in and it will calculate your GST and totals for you. Download the Free Quote Template Now that you have an expanded knowledge of these awesome apps, get downloading and make yourself familiar with them – the benefits are incredible.

Cargo nets for utes are essential for anyone transporting tools or other items. They help secure your load and prevent it from sliding or flying out of the vehicle. This makes them the perfect solution for tying down tools or packages. There are many types of cargo nets available, and different laws apply to their use. This can make choosing the right one confusing. When choosing a cargo net, consider the weight and size of your load. It needs to be strong enough to hold the weight and not break if you have an accident. And it needs to be wide enough to cover your load completely. Cargo nets with a mesh layer prevent your netting from getting tangled with your tools. Finding the correct cargo net is essential. The law requires that you secure your loads. You need to consider the cargo net’s strength rating and length measurements as well as material. But how can I make sure I am choosing the right specifications?  Choosing a Cargo Net Choosing a cargo net is not hard if you buy the right one the first time. It is best to consider what the strongest one you might need is and buy that. As you can use a strong cargo net for light tools, but you can’t use a string, lightweight cargo netting for heavy tools. Cargo netting’s customizable features and proven security strength make for less chance of cargo movement, not to mention less wear and tear on your vehicle. The elimination of shifting helps to lighten the load on your vehicle’s suspension and helps with fuel economy. It is widely used for both commercial and private transportation.  The benefit of proper cargo netting is in the convenience of packing. Instead of using a half dozen ratchet straps or bungees, you can simply throw the net over your load and secure it with the netting’s hardware. The setup is simple, and the complete coverage of the netting gives you the assurance that none of your cargo will shift. It also ensures none of your items will become broken during transportation. Or even worse, bouncing out of the vehicle completely.  There are four things you need to consider when choosing a cargo net; the dimensions, strength rating, meshing and attachment sites.  How big does my cargo net need to be? If you are wondering what size cargo net do I need? Your cargo net, at a minimum, needs to cover the top of your entire load. To get a general idea of size, measure the width, height and length of your load. Do the same to your trailer or ute to get an idea of the maximum size net you would need. If your load regularly varies in height, it might be a good idea to invest in multiple cargo nets. If your load varies, you might want to invest in more than one cargo net – you can use the smaller net to secure your load and the larger one as insurance. What Cargo Net Weight Rating Do I Need? Nets have a strength rating of between 1,000 kg and 3,500 kg based on size and number of straps. So before you purchase a cargo net, consider the maximum cumulative weight of your load that you will be transporting. It is important that you do not underestimate your load weight. This is because not only can you be fined for using a net that doesn’t support the weight you are putting it under, but you can also be putting yourself and others at risk. Think, if you have a big generator, plus all your tools, it can easily amount to hundreds of kilos cumulatively, so you can not just consider the weight of the generator alone. By law, you must secure both private and commercial transport loads with a security cargo net. Failing to do so could result in fines upwards of $200 and land you with up to 3 demerit points. The law is serious because the safety risks are so high. An unsecured or underestimated load could cause you to unintentionally damage someone else’s property, life or even your own. Not to mention the estimated hundreds of traffic accidents that cargo netting prevents every year. A cargo net is a cheap investment in the protection of your tools, your life and the lives of those around you. What are cargo nets made of? Cargo nets generally come in three main types; string nets, webbing nets, or a combination of webbing and mesh. When choosing the best cargo net, you need to consider what it is made of, and how it will work with your load. String Cargo Nets A light string cargo net will not have the high weight ratings of its mesh counterparts. But if you are only transporting light objects, such as your esky, some buckets, a shovel or two, then a simple string cargo net will prevent them from flying out the back of your open-ended truck or trailer and hitting someone’s windscreen behind you.  A cargo netg is the cheapest and easiest way to keep a light load in. But a string cargo net can get completely or partially broken during transport if it can get tangled up in your tools. So it is best for broad shapes of little weight and can keep all of your items snug. We want to stop our tools and equipment from moving around and flying off the back of the ute as much as possible.  Webbing cargo nets Webbing cargo nets are thicker and stronger than string cargo nets. They’re great for holding in heavy cargo that has a simple shape, or that is large in not going to slip through any of the open gaps. The thicker straps of the webbed cargo nets are less likely to get tangled with your cargo but they can still miss smaller tools. If you have loose tools amongst your cargo like hammers or pliers, you want something that is

If you work in construction, you know that tearing out a concrete slab used to be one of the toughest jobs. Chisels and hammers were the standard tools, making the task exhausting and time-consuming. Thankfully, modern saws and blades have made concrete cutting much easier. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right blade for your project? The best blades for cutting concrete are diamond blades. They have a clear advantage over standard abrasive blades. They will last longer and make a cleaner and more defined cut every time! Diamond blades come in many different sizes and types, so you will always have the right blade for your job! Not every diamond blade is made equal, and not all of them are up for every task. Making sure you have the right one will make your life easier and get the job done faster. Read on to find out where each diamond blade shines! What kind of blade is best for cutting concrete? Diamond blades are best for cutting concrete. They last longer, cut faster and create a cleaner line than other abrasive style blades. Surprisingly, diamond blades don’t actually cut the concrete. Diamond blades use a grinding action to tear away small pieces of material and jar larger pieces loose. Any type of blade will wear down during this process, but the diamond blades have multiple layers. When one layer is worn away, it reveals another layer of diamonds beneath it. The multiple layers mean you don’t need to replace your blade near as often as you would if using a different blade. Are diamond blades the best for cutting concrete blocks and pavers? Diamond blades work great for cutting concrete blocks and pavers. A diamond blade is a game-changer if you’ve been cutting blocks the old-fashioned way with a hammer and chisel. Even upgrading to a paving stone splitter doesn’t compare. A saw with a diamond blade offers faster, more precise cuts. This means less material is wasted and the job finishes quicker. It’s always best to use a wet saw, as the water helps control dust and protects your lungs. If you use a dry saw, make sure the blade is specifically designed for dry cutting. Can you use a diamond blade on reinforced concrete? Yes, you can also use diamond blades on reinforced concrete! And they work great! If you have been working in construction long, then you know cutting through reinforced concrete used to be a specialized trade. It was not something most standard companies had the equipment to deal with. Now with upgraded tools, most companies can take this task on themselves, saving them time and money. It is important to know that if you are cutting into foundation or anything with rebar, you will need to use a wet saw. In fact, it is almost always best to use a wet saw. The water does double duty by keeping the blade cool and also cutting down on airborne particles. If you do use a dry saw, you will need specific blades. However, any blade can be used with a wet saw. How long will a diamond blade last cutting concrete? A diamond blade will last anywhere from 12 to 120 hours of continual cutting. Obviously, that is a huge range, but the life you get out of your blade is directly proportional to the quality of blade you are buying. Other factors will determine the life of the blade as well, such as the hardness of the material you are cutting and if you are using the blade correctly. If you are using a wet saw, the amount of water you are getting to the blade can also factor into how long your blade will last. But the number one factor for determining the life of your diamond blade is going to be the quality of the blade. The more expensive ones can often cost as much as 30% more than the cheaper ones, but the life of the blade can nearly double. You will have to decide for yourself what your job needs. If you are not going to be doing a lot of cutting, it may be worth it to save some money on a blade that will only cut for 12-15 hours. If you are on a large job and cutting a lot of concrete, it will be more worthwhile to spend the extra money on a higher-priced diamond blade. What diamond blade is best for cutting concrete? Concrete blocks and pavers:  The Stealth Master diamond blade for cutting concrete blocks and pavers is the perfect blade for your next job. The Stealth Master is designed specifically for block saws with a lower RPM than other similar diamond blades. Other reasons this blade outshines the competition are the noise level and that it is laser welded. The Stealth Master lives up to its name and is one of the quietest blades out there, cutting as quiet as 8 decibels! Using laser welding gives the blade up to an additional 35% lifespan. You can find the Stealth Master here. Reinforced Concrete:  For reinforced concrete, we recommend the Flash 14-inch Universal Segmented Turbo diamond saw blade. The Flash can cut through any masonry-type material on your job site. It is made to cut quieter and last longer than other blades. The segments blow debris away from the cut and also cool the blade at the same time. While a segmented blade is great for most cuts, if you are cutting precious materials, a continuous diamond blade will give you a smoother cut. The Flash can be used wet or dry, but cutting wet will always give you a better life span on your diamond blade. You can find the Flash here. If you have any further questions on why diamond blades are the best choice for cutting concrete, and want to learn more about the process, feel free to get in contact with the team at Canberra Diamond Blade