Construction Blog

As goes the Economy, so goes Construction.....

As goes the economy, so goes construction.

That industry mantra can sound either disheartening or hopeful depending on the current economic landscape.
No doubt, the recession hit hard – and few industries were hit harder than construction. In fact, in a study commissioned by Associated General Contractors, it said the recession and resulting housing and credit slump, has resulted “in one of the highest unemployment rates in any segment.”

But thanks to a slow, but steadily, improving economy, that’s all starting to change -- and it only takes a quick jaunt in downtown Salt Lake City to see the proof of the rejuvenation.

Nearly every corner of the major metro block is packed with cranes, cones and cement mixers. The city's hub is in the midst of one of the biggest revitalization projects in the nation. The story is the same for North Temple -- a revitalized shopping district and one of Salt Lake's major thoroughfares to the airport. And soon, the aptly-named 'Sugar Hole' in vintage Sugar House will become home to new retail shops and storefront luxury condos.

This trend was also confirmed on paper as, for the first time in six months, the nation’s construction industry added jobs in February. According to the March 4 employment report by the U.S. Labor Department, 33,000 jobs were created during the previous month.
But this is far from unexpected.

Fact is, buildings fall into disrepair. Roads buckle in the cold and potholes abound. As the population increases, so does the need to larger, better infrastructure and more housing options. As the economy continues to find its breath, these opportunities will grow expontentially.

So, while flurries of orange cones and traffic delays may inconvenience some commuters and pedestrians, their presence is indicative of a greater economic turnaround -- and the perennial security of the construction industry.

That’s where Construction Complete can help . As a premier supplier for professional construction tools and equipment, we can help you make the most of the economic upswing. By providing everything from custom tools to landscaping supplies to heaters, we can help you maximize your efficiency year-round. We understand your business needs and promise to continue to provide the expertise, fair pricing, timely delivery and custom solutions you need to excel.

So, take comfort. No, the construction industry is far from recession-proof. But it’s almost always at the forefront of recovery.

5 Tips to Help Choose a Concrete Mixer

You've been mixing more concrete than in the past, maybe you're taking on larger jobs since the recession, but whatever the reason might be, choosing a concrete mixer to meet your needs can be a difficult task. I've put together a few tips to help you decide, or at least get on the right track. Because there are so many manufacturers in the industry with different specs and options, I will keep my suggestions general and use particular models for specific examples. Please let me know if you have any questions!

1. Portable or Stationary?

Initially, you'll need to decide whether a stationary unit or portable unit will be necessary for your application. Obviously, a stationary unit is not intended to be moved on a regular basis so if you plan to mix most of your concrete on one job site for an extended period of time, a stationary unit might be best for you. Portable units come in two basic styles: on-site mobile units and portable, trailer-mounted mixers. If you think you'll need to move the mixer around your job site throughout the day, the lighter mobile unit will work best. These are available in wheelbarrow style and a stand-up with folding wheels. If you need a larger mixer that is capable of being towed across town, from job to job. A portable, trailer-mounted unit is probably best for you. With trailer-mounted units, it will be important for you to check whether or not the mixer is rated for highway travel.  This is an extremely important safety issue.

2. Batch Output

Consider the size and scope of your most common projects. Often you can get away with using a smaller mixer, but giving yourself some breathing room will allow you to take on larger jobs in the future. Also, a larger mixer is capable of producing your most common mix much more quickly. For backyard-type projects replacing concrete structures or creating landscaped architecture, a small 'MiniMix' unit may be optimal. With these types of mixers, you're looking at a batch output of anywhere from 1 cu. ft. to about 3.5 cu. ft., which is perfect for most light-duty applications. For larger jobs like residential sidewalks, street patching, and other commercial projects use a towable mixer like the Crown C3 Concrete Mixer. These larger mixers have batch outputs of up to 12 cu. ft. and are extremely versatile. For contractors looking for a batch mix solution without hiring a truck, these units are perfect.

3. Gas or Electric?

This choice seems simple, however, it's still important to give it some thought. Will you be working indoors with the mixer? If you're working outside and you choose an electric unit, will you always be near an outlet? Not only the difference between gas and electric, but consider the gas engine options available. Often a Robin or Yanmar driven mixer is cheaper and may be more appealing in the short-term, keep in mind that Honda parts and maintenance tend to be easier to come by and are usually much cheaper even though the initial cost is higher.  Diesel options are also available.

4. Side Dump or End Dump Mixer?

Depending on your application you may need a side dump or end dump mixer. End dump mixers are great for keeping the mixer attached to your truck and pouring concrete over curbs or in to tight areas. This option generally comes down to preference unless there is a spacing issue on your job site. Make sure to take a look at the dimensions of your mixer before purchasing to ensure that it will fit within your jobs' available space. 

5. Poly Drum Mixer or Steel Drum Mixer?

This is an important decision whether you are choosing to go with a smaller mobile unit or a large towable unit. Polymer plastic drums can make your mixer considerably lighter and easier to maintain. Poly drums can reduce the weight of your mixer by a considerable amount, which means that it's easier to handle with one person (if it's a wheelbarrow mixer) or that it is much easier to tow, especially for a truck that has considerable weight loads already. Also, Poly does not rust and is much easier to spray out with a hose after your job is complete. The only issue with Poly Drums are they tend only to be available for medium to light-duty mixers. However, if you're interested, always check for special order options!

I realize these tips may be brief or partially incomplete, but they will generally be a good start. If you think I've missed something or have anything to add, please leave your comments below!

 

The Importance of Safety Equipment in Construction

Many of us underestimate the importance of safety in our everyday lives because we become complacent in our daily tasks. Whether it be driving, using the lawn mower, or trimming bushes, it's easy to let safety slip your mind. In construction, however, professionals do not have this liberty because the daily tasks they participate in can be far more dangerous. Complacency in the work place could result in serious injury.  That is why it is so vital for construction professionals to operate machinery and equipment in the safest possible manner, as well as use the necessary safety equipment to protect themselves.

Safety equipment can range from hard hats and gloves, to eye protection and first aid kits. No matter the type of construction your job requires, do not overlook your safety equipment needs. The most common types of safety equipment needed on construction sites, or at home, are work gloves and and eye protection or safety glasses. Because these items are so common, many variations exist and you are sure to find the pair of either that best suits your needs. From clear safety glasses and safety sunglasses to safety over-glasses and prescription safety glasses, the options are limitless. Clear safety glasses tend to be the most common style available. These glasses generally don't provide any side or peripheral protection, thus are typically considered to be 'head-on' protection. Don't let style or fit be an excuse for not purchasing safety glasses, there are too many options for those to be legitimate reasons! 

Work gloves tend to be even more important on a wider array of jobs. Protect your hands from abrasive materials, cuts, and blisters. Keeping your hands in top condition will be crucial to the success of your project. There are work gloves designed for just about any application. From knit gloves with rubber dots for increased grip in cold weather, to rubber-coated abrasive resistant gloves for moving abrasive building materials.  Choose the style and size of glove that best suits your needs.

Eye and hand protection tend to be the most common and important protection on light to medium-duty construction sites. However, heavy construction, particularly commercial and industrial building applications often require the use of hard hats and other safety equipment like harnesses and steel-toe boots. Please share your specific experiences and comments regarding safety equipment below. We will be posting more detailed articles about OSHA regulation and safety requirements for various types of construction soon.