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What Is Brick Masonry?

Brick Masonry Charleston SC is an economical and durable choice for wall construction. Its insulating properties reduce energy costs. It is also a fire-resistant material.

Bricks can be formed using soft mud, dry-pressed, or extruded. Afterward, they are fired in a kiln to achieve strength.

Mud bricks are softer and have rough surfaces. They are suitable for temporary construction projects and arid climates.

Brick masonry is an art form with a long history that dates back to ancient man. The earliest bricks were sun-dried mud or clay and shaped by hand. The oldest bricks discovered date from around 7000 BC. They were found and were made of mud and straw. It wasn’t until about 3500 BC that bricks began to be fired in an oven or kiln. This was a major advancement that helped make brick buildings more popular than they had been before.

The earliest bricks were usually sloppy, but this only bothered builders a little since they were affordable and easy to build. Brick masonry has been used for everything from homes to bridges, and it can be combined with other building materials like concrete to make them stronger.

Masonry also refers to a mortar bond placed between individual masonry units, such as brick or stone. The mortar is what holds the bricks together and allows them to be stacked, either vertically or horizontally, into walls. Brick masonry can be structural, as in load-bearing walls, or decorative, as in a brick-veneer wall.

Historically, brick substrate materials were heavy, and processing them required significant human and animal labor to sift and lift them. Today, we have diesel and gas combustion engine-powered equipment that can lift thousands of pounds simultaneously, meaning brickmaking is faster and more efficient than ever.

Bricks can be produced using dry press, soft mud, or wire cut. They can be shaped by hand or with machines that create uniform molds. Once they are shaped, they must be fired in an oven to harden them. This process is what makes them more durable than mud or unfired brick. Buildings made from unreinforced brick are vulnerable to earthquake damage, so they must be retrofitted with steel to make them stronger.

Brick masonry construction can use different types of materials for walls. Masons mostly use clay bricks but can also utilize concrete blocks, stone, or terra-cotta. Typically, they use mortar as the bonding medium between bricks and other masonry units. Mortar is a paste consisting of cement powder, sand, and water. It often reinforces a wall’s structure and reduces cracking from temperature changes.

The choice of brick for a project depends on the type of wall and its function, e.g., load-bearing or decorative. The masonry must be correctly matched to the structural requirements of the building. Structural walls demand solid bonds between each masonry unit, while decorative walls can follow any bond pattern.

Besides bricks, masons use various tools to perform their jobs efficiently and safely. One of the most important tools is a wheelbarrow, used for hauling bricks, mixing mortar and concrete, and removing construction waste. Masons should also have a wire brush for ripping off chips and debris that get in their way while working.

A hammer is also useful to break apart bricks, especially large ones. A level is another tool to check the alignment of a wall. Before starting the construction, a mason should check the ground using a level or theodolite and mark the foundation layout. They should dry the foundation for a few days before constructing brick masonry. They should also dampen the bricks a few hours before construction to prevent them from absorbing too much water and improve adherence with the mortar.

Brick masonry can be built in many different shapes and sizes depending on the project’s needs. Architects often specify these shapes, including corner, lipped, troughed, or saddle-back bricks. The most common shape is a solid rectangular unit with a flat face and rounded edges. Bricks can also be cut into various shapes to fit in spaces where a full brick would not work. Some of the most common cut bricks are half or bat, three-quarter closure, king and queen closure. Each of these cuts produces a unique brick unit with different characteristics.

Bricks are typically used for the outer veneer layer of a structure rather than as load-bearing walls. This type of masonry provides a strong and aesthetically pleasing exterior while not contributing much to the overall structural integrity of the building. It also allows insulation to be installed inside, increasing the structure’s energy efficiency.

A wall can utilize six different brick bonding methods: English bond, Flemish bond, running bond, header bond, stack bond, and a wythe. These bonds are used to create a variety of aesthetic finishes and can be combined to produce multiple wall thicknesses.

While numerous masonry materials are available, brick is among the most versatile. It can be used for decorative and practical purposes and can accommodate various weather conditions. Brick is also an attractive option in cold climates, allowing it to absorb thermal heat during the day and retain it at night.

Choosing the right brick for your project will depend on several factors, including durability, cost, and the type of application. Brick masonry is usually rated by its ASTM specifications and is divided into four classes based on durability, strength, and load capacity. Architects should carefully review these specifications before selecting brick for their projects.

Brick masonry is one of the most versatile construction materials in the building industry. It can be used for various applications, from foundation walls to fences. It can also be used as a decorative element on walls. It is durable and resistant to abrasion. It is a good choice for outdoor structures because it is weather-resistant and can withstand high wind speeds. It also has a low water absorption rate and is easy to clean. It is also available in various colors, textures, and bonds.

Different bricks are named by their use, forming method, origin, quality, texture, and color. Some are extruded and have a consistent size and shape, while others are made through the soft mud or dry press. Some are sun-dried, while others are fire-dried. Some are manufactured with cement, while others are made from clay and sand mixed with lime or fly ash. A few types also have a lower compressive strength but offer the advantage of being easier to work with.

It is important to dampen the surface before starting work when laying bricks. This will prevent the bricks from absorbing too much water, which could lead to moisture damage. It is also important to place the bricks properly. For example, the frog side should be up when laying a stretcher bond. It is a good idea to use quoin closers at the beginning and end of the wall, as well as the corners.

Brick masonry is often used for garden facades, retaining walls, dividing walls, and chimney stacks. It is also useful in constructing floors and foundations. In addition, it is very durable and can withstand seismic loads. However, concrete block masonry is stronger and requires more plastering time.

Brick masonry is extremely durable but requires routine maintenance and inspections to keep it looking its best. The most important maintenance item is keeping water off brick surfaces. This is done by maintaining gutters and downspouts and ensuring that the wall’s grading and soil conditions are conducive to proper drainage. Brick walls should also have a “weep hole” (a small hole in the mortar) to allow moisture to escape. This should not be covered or blocked with debris such as rodent nests, leaves, or plant growth.

Another important issue is keeping bricks from mold, mildew, and moss. These can be removed with a mild bleach solution, one cup of bleach to a gallon of water, and applied with a synthetic scrub brush (not wire) after thoroughly soaking the brick. It is important not to use a wire brush because the steel will rust, leaving rust-colored stains on the brick.

Brick can also be damaged by water infiltrating the surface through joints and flashings that are not properly sealed. This is most often due to a need for more maintenance, especially in areas with severe weather. It is essential to check these areas frequently and replace the elastomeric caulking.

Another common damage to bricks comes from deteriorating mortar between the bricks, which can occur due to weather and other environmental factors. This can lead to spalling, which is when the outside surface of a brick breaks away. This is often seen at corners, near downspouts, and around windows. It can be prevented by regularly assessing mortar condition and tuckpointing as needed. It is also important to monitor the elastomeric caulking around doors and windows, replacing it as needed.

Looking For Unique Yet Easy Home-Improvement Ideas?

 

 

As a homeowner, you may want to spruce up the place simply to change the general atmosphere or even to add a lot of value to your home in order to refinance for lower monthly payments. Regardless of your reasons for wanting to take on a project, you should first take some time and read these home improvement tips.

 

Do you need to fix a hole in your wall made by a nail or screw. Create a divot in the wall with the rounded end of a screwdriver by pressing it into the screw hole. Next, use spackle or drywall compound to fill the divot. This will give you a nice smooth wall surface.

 

Having a small kitchen doesn’t have to be all bad. Since you have limited surfaces and space to work with, make sure to purchase a sink with a deep bowl. Then add some elegant high- end faucets to match the rest of your kitchen. You can easily create a feeling of space without having to compromise the rest of your home.

 

Try to keep the amount of pictures you nail to your wall to a minimum. Many people seem to get carried away with dozens of photographs and prints hanging on the wall. Add about 4 to 5 pictures to your wall, arranged in nice frames, to create a dramatic, but uncluttered look.

 

If you don’t want to refinish your old and weathered wooden floors, you can instead, give your home a cottage style boost. Buy some oil based paint and choose some affordable stencils. Use the stencils and paint to re-design your wooden floors. Add some cute designs in varying patterns, to give a full on-cottage look to your home.

 

After reading these tips, you are one step closer to finally making those repairs or upgrades. What’s the next step, you ask? Well, proper implementation of the above tips and tactics is how you want to proceed. No shortcuts here; apply exactly what you’ve learned for the best results.

 

You can also visit our other website and post your article.

 

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How Much Does Deck Installation Cost?

When scheduling a deck installation, you want to make sure you’re planning it during off-season months. The warmer months are more popular for installing new decks, so scheduling your project during off-season months can save you a significant amount of money. Moreover, contractors with fewer jobs will likely offer you lower labor rates and faster scheduling. Therefore, it’s important to consider these factors when determining the cost of your new deck. You may contact Deck Companies for a consult to help you estimate the cost.

deck builders

Before hiring a contractor to build your deck, take the time to research the cost of materials and labor. Currently, the average cost of heart surgery is about $100,000, so it’s essential to make sure you know exactly how much the construction will cost. Before you decide to hire a contractor, determine whether the final price is worth the finished product. Also, ask about their guarantee for the work, because this can be a big factor in the overall cost of your project.
The cost of a deck installation will vary but generally ranges from $2,800 to $6,500. You may also want to consider the cost of railing, which can add about $19 per linear foot. If you’d like a fire pit, it can cost anywhere from $200 to $500. If you’re planning to install an outdoor fireplace, the price can be as much as $1,500. If you decide to go this route, it’s best to check with your local tax assessor before you decide to hire a contractor.
In addition to the cost of materials and labor, you should also consider the cost of upkeep. The average cost of heart surgery today is about $100,000. The same applies to the cost of a deck installation. Before you hire a contractor, make sure you know the cost of materials and labor. It’s a good idea to have a baseline figure to compare and see if it’s worth the money. The price of a deck installation should be in line with the overall cost of a home renovation.
Aside from the cost of materials, a deck can also increase the value of your home. Depending on the size and style of the deck, you may need to consider installing a roof to protect it from the weather. You might also want to choose a skirt for your newly installed deck. The material you choose should be able to support it and prevent the bottom of the deck from sinking. The roof is another important part of the structure.
Depending on the size and area of your deck, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,800 to $6,500 for a professional to install the deck. For example, pine or redwood railing will cost an extra $15 to $20 per linear foot while recycled composite lumber railing will cost around $35. Adding a fireplace, a pergola or awning can also add to the overall price of a deck. Similarly, step lighting can provide mood lighting, and the materials used in a deck installation will depend on the type of construction you select.
Before hiring a contractor, you need to determine how much the project will cost. The price of materials and labor can vary significantly, so make sure to find out how much you’ll need to spend. A typical deck project will involve between $10,000 and $15,000 in total. Once the work is completed, you should contact your tax assessor and ask them to check the finished product for a new estimate of taxes. The cost of labor and materials can easily add up, and you should know exactly how much you’re paying for your deck before agreeing to the price.
Whether you decide to hire a professional or DIY, you should be aware of the costs. Before making a final decision, know the total price of materials and labor. Once you’ve got a rough idea of how much a deck will cost, you can look for a contractor. Then, decide whether it’s worth it to you. It’s important to have a budget before hiring a contractor. The cost of a heart operation is around $100,000 today. The same is true of a deck.
A deck installation project should be an excellent investment for your property. While many people like the idea of a deck, a new one can actually raise property taxes. Depending on the materials and the area of the deck, the additional cost will depend on the size and the complexity of the project. Additionally, you should check the tax assessor’s estimate for your new deck. If you are not sure of the cost, it might be worth it to get a professional to do the work for you.

Roofing Services- Metal Roof Installation

Installing a metal roof is a complicated process that requires proper attention to detail. Several important factors need to be considered to ensure that the project is properly completed. In addition to ensuring the quality of the work, proper installation will protect your home from the risk of leaks and deterioration. Incorrect installation will result in damage to the rest of your structure. This is why it is necessary to hire expert roofers. 

roofer

First, you should ask for a bank letter from the company you are considering. This letter from the bank shows that the company is financially stable and can obtain the necessary materials. Without this letter, you may end up with a cheap and inferior product. The contractor should be able to supply the letter to you for free if you demand it. Once you receive the bank certificate, you should request the contractor to install your metal roof. This will give you peace of mind knowing that the job will be done correctly.
Then, you should look for a company that has General Liability Insurance. This will protect you and your property in the event of a mishap. It’s important to ask for a contractor’s bank letter before hiring them to do the work. Having a bank letter is an excellent way to ensure that the company is financially stable and will be able to obtain the necessary materials. When selecting a company to install a metal roof, you should also ask for a written estimate, and be sure that the contractor will be responsible for the required permits.
Finally, be sure to ask about the company’s insurance policy. While it may be difficult to get, it is an important factor in the process. A company that has General Liability Insurance will protect you against accidental damage and pay for your damages. Another important aspect of a metal roof is that the panels are sharp, so it is essential to know if the contractor will provide an adequate amount of protection against these hazards. If you are not comfortable with the risks associated with a metal roof, don’t hesitate to hire a company that has General Liability Insurance.
Before hiring a roofing company, ask about their bank letter. It proves the company’s financial stability. The bank letter shows that the company can get the materials it needs, so you should insist on a copy of it. If the bank letter isn’t available, you can always opt for a different company that will complete the job more efficiently. In any case, ask about the company’s background before signing any contract.
Before installing a metal roof, it is important to check the details of the product you are purchasing. In addition to a brief overview, this document is a comprehensive guide that will tell you how to install the panel. A detailed document will detail how each panel should be screwed in place and what the roofer should be looking for during installation. In the end, it is a detailed look at the process of metal roof installation.
Before hiring a metal roof installation company, you need to check their bank letter. This letter shows that the company has an adequate amount of capital and is financially stable. The bank letter will also cover the cost of obtaining the necessary permits, which is another important factor in a roofing project. The contractor must also have a bank letter from the bank. It will prove that they are legally qualified to perform the work, and will have no trouble getting the materials needed to complete the job.
When choosing a metal roof installation company, you need to consider several factors. For instance, the contractor’s ability to meet the building codes for their area is essential, and they must be able to get products for your property. Having a bank letter from a reputable company will make you feel more confident in the choice you make. The process will take a few hours, but it will be worth it. You will be glad you chose a reliable metal roof installation company.

ASV debuts RT-40, its first CTL with a Yanmar engine

Some 20 years ago ASV showed the world a new kind of rubber track system that used oscillating bogie rollers in an undercarriage that practically floated over the ground. This type of machine came to be known as the compact track loader, and while ASV has changed hands several times, they’ve continued to innovate and refine the concept.

Yanmar acquired ASV in 2019, and fittingly the new ASV RT-40 is powered with a Yanmar engine rated at 38.2 horsepower. “The Yanmar engine is an ASV engine,” says Buck Storlie, product manager, “and it is fully serviceable at Yanmar or ASV dealers.”

The small frame loader features a 48.3-inch width, an 8.4-foot lift height, a 931-pound operating capacity and a 7.1 mph top speed.  And like all ASV CTLs the RT-40 offers high tractive effort, low ground pressure and lots of pushing and digging power thanks to ASV’s Posi-Power system. With its 4,000-pound weight and maneuverability, the RT-40 will be a staple in the rental market and ideal for landscapers and contractors who want to get in and out of narrow spaces and passages to backyards, says Storlie.

ttachment range

The RT-40’s quick-attach fits a variety of attachments and works with an optional adaptor plate for full-sized or walk-behind/stand-on loader attachments. In addition, the loader’s compact size and weight allows it to be conveniently towed behind a 1/2-ton pickup truck.

The RT-40 comes standard with variable auxiliary hydraulic flow and can operate efficiently at a high auxiliary circuit flow rate, powered by 13.3-gpm of pump capacity and 3,000 psi of system pressure. Labor-intensive belt servicing is eliminated thanks to ASV’s use of a direct drive pump. This, along with the machine’s large line sizes and hydraulic coolers, transfer more flow and pressure directly to the attachment to help prevent power loss.

Built tough

ASV engineered the RT-40 for durability and reduced maintenance. It features a heavy-duty frame and metal-face seals on the front and back to ensure the drive hubs do not require maintenance for the life of the machine. The new wiring harness is routed for additional durability and the drive hose routing and chassis sealing are designed for reduced rubbing, fewer line breaks and boosted longevity.

An optional bumper or bumper and limb riser help protect the machine in tough applications, such as rental use. When it’s time for maintenance, the rear-tilting hood offers easy access to filters, oil and fuel tank reservoirs, hydraulic and water separator drains and the battery.

A new frameless front door includes a floor-to-ceiling glass area, allowing operators to better see their work, bucket edges and attachments. The cab’s large side and rear windows provide additional lines of sight. Rear LED lights and adjustable front pedestal lighting add visibility to the worksite at dusk, dawn or anytime visibility is poor. An optional backup camera is available to replace the standard rearview mirror for additional visibility and safety.

Go-anywhere track

Some OEM CTLs use the same chassis as their skid steers, but ASV designs its Posi-Track and skid-steer loaders independently to maximize the benefits of the undercarriage system. The RT-40’s dedicated frame enjoys a 10.8-inch ground clearance to carry it over rocks, logs, stumps and other obstacles. With just 3.5 psi ground pressure, the RT-40 can roll across turf and other sensitive or landscaped surfaces with minimal impact while also maintaining enough flotation to work on soft or boggy ground that would sink a typical skid steer. The wide, flexible track reduces the risk of track derailment.

A new single-side lap bar borrowed from ASV’s larger Max series machines improves entry and exit and gives operators extra space in the cab. The cab is pressurized to keep out dust and offers optional heat and air conditioning.


ASV’s new line of attachments will include the most popular tools first followed by additional releases later.ASV

SV-branded attachments

Along with the RT-40, ASV debuted a new line of its own attachments. The initial launch will include the most commonly used tools such as buckets, pallet forks, grapples, brush mowers and receiver plates, says Frank Gangi, product manager for attachments. The attachments are performance-matched for all the companies tracked and skid steer loaders.

The benefits of dedicated attachments for dealers and customers are that the ASV dealer will become a one-stop shop, with customers able to get both the loader and the factory-direct attachments, parts and service from one location. “The attachments will fit and perform as intended and be plug-and-play so they can be productive right out of the gate,” says Gangi. This also makes financing easier with customers able to combine the machine and the attachments and take advantage of special offers, he says.

The new ASV buckets will have bolt-on cutting edges. Also available are tooth buckets and tooth bars for extra digging power. Light material buckets for snow and mulch are available up to 96” wide. And ASV’s 4-in-1 multi-purpose buckets range from 48 to 72 inches wide.

With capacity up to 6,200 pounds, ASV Pallet forks will offer tines from 36- to 48-inches long. Grapple rakes and grapple buckets will measure 48- to 72-inches wide. Brush mowers will likewise offer widths of 48 to 72 inches. And Receiver hitch plates for moving trailers quickly and easily, are available for ASV or standard ISO mount.

The company will be launching additional attachments in phases based on dealer and customer feedback, says Gangi.

Did you miss our previous article…
https://constructionosa.org/?p=1312

How to Protect your Tools and Equipment Against Winter’s Worst

Slightly less than a year ago the residents of one of the hottest states in the country woke up to find their power out, pipes burst and icy havoc everywhere. The big freeze that hit Texas, February 13, 2021 and lasted almost a week, killed more people than the Alamo and racked up billions of dollars in damages.

That should be warning enough to take winter seriously. Whether it’s your tools or equipment you should understand the worst that could happen and prepare for it. Here’s a checklist of the dangers and what you can do to prevent them.

The #1 Rule

No set of rules could possibly cover all the contingencies for different brands and types of equipment, mobile, stationary, rubber-tire, tracked, low and high horsepower, diesel, gas, hybrid or fully electric. So the #1 rule is to check with the equipment dealer or OEM or consult the manual first.

Also don’t do this slapdash or just whenever you get around to it. Use our list here as a starting point but then study your equipment and needs, develop an action plan and then execute—before it’s too late.

Power Tools

The rechargeable batteries used to run saws, drills, flashlights and even some demolition tools should never be left out in cold weather. Below 40 degrees lithium-ion batteries won’t hold a charge and leaving them out in freezing temperatures can permanently reduce run time. Don’t store these in an unheated shop, or your truck toolbox when freezing weather threatens.

If you build a charging station to hold these tools, batteries and chargers, make it portable so you can bring it inside when necessary and always keep the batteries and tools within the temperature range recommended by the manufacturer.

Pneumatic Tools

Air-driven power tools such as DA sanders, nail guns rely on seals, O-rings and lubrication to function properly. When cold temps turn these materials brittle or cause the lubrication to gel, they won’t fire properly and may become permanently damaged. Always store them inside at the temperatures recommended.

If using them outside in freezing weather, follow manufacturer guidelines. If needed you can rotate tools from outside to inside throughout the day to keep them functioning properly. Also, consider using a cold-weather lubricant/pneumatic tool oil.

Compressors

Air compressors will accumulate moisture over repeated exposure to rising and falling temperatures. Make sure you drain the compressor at the end of every day. Use air hoses that remain flexible in the cold and consider using an in-line antifreeze product such as Kilfrost Pneumatic Tool and Antifreeze lubricant to prevent blockages.

Shop Heat

Shops without a dedicated HVAC system will sometimes use gas or propane forced air heaters to warm up the work environment. Be sure you follow all the manufacturer’s instructions on ventilation when using these. And note that these sometimes create a thin film on many surfaces. You won’t be able to see this film and it won’t affect most operations but it may prevent spray paint from adhering to surfaces should you want to paint anything that’s been stored in the shop. Extra degreasing on metal surfaces should alleviate the problem.

Electric space heaters are sometimes used for small spaces, just be aware that these will increase your power bill considerably.

Gas Engines

There is considerable debate among construction and landscaping professionals about how to store gasoline-powered tools for the winter. One camp says to drain the tank, completely, shoot a small squirt of lube oil in the spark plug hole and pull the starter rope a few times to coat the inside of the engine with oil. Others say to fill the tank with gasoline that’s been treated with an additive.

Our advice: do whatever the owner’s manual says to do. If you don’t have the manual most manufacturers post them online.

Equipment Lights

As winter’s shortened days close in, operators and foremen are tempted to keep working into the dusk. Before this happens check all the lights on your machines to make sure they’re in good working order.

Consider adding auxiliary lighting packages—today’s new LED lights can provide amazing illumination while also conserving battery power. And put a towel inside every machine so operators can clear the windshield of any condensation that occurs.

Diesel Engines

A long time ago contractors would start their diesel engines early, and do something else for five or ten minutes to let the engine warm up before driving off or starting work. And in cold weather, they’d also leave their diesels running for fear of them not starting back up. That’s no longer the case.

Today’s diesels need only a minute or so to warm up and they have sufficient battery power to restart even in the coldest temps. Running a diesel engine at low idle for long periods of time can actually cause carbon accumulation in the engine as the exhaust after-treatment process doesn’t get hot enough to burn it off.  Go ahead and start working within 60 seconds of startup. Your engine and its DPF and/or DOC systems will thank you for it. For extremely cold weather (states bordering Canada), you may need a cold weather starting package that your OEM dealer can provide.

Newer machines and trucks generally run with low viscosity lube oils to improve fuel efficiency. The new 5W-40 and 0W-40 synthetic will perform well down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. But if you are running thicker oils in your older equipment, check with the OEM before switching to low viscosity.

Keep it Clean

While you still have above-freezing temperatures pressure wash your equipment, paying extra attention to tracks and undercarriages. If ice or frozen mud is left on those, it will lock up the whole undercarriage and you will not be able to move the machine until it thaws out. And even if you do get it moving you could be damaging the pins, bushings and rollers unless all the frozen gunk is removed first.

Dirt and frozen crud will also hide leaky seals and components that if left unattended could create maintenance headaches down the line. Salt and other road-de-icing chemicals can also cause rust and corrosion if left on the machine for long.

Move it

Even if you’re parking your machines for the winter, it’s a good idea to periodically start them, move the joysticks, and travel a short distance. This keeps seals and fittings coated with lubrication and prevents ice build-up that might compromise operation when you need the machine.

Pushing fluid through the hydraulic system will keep valves and seals lubricated and in good shape. Also lubricate door hinges and other metal-to-metal parts to keep them swinging freely, ward off moisture and prevent rust.

Tires and Hoses

Repeated cold, thaw cycles can create small, temporary air leaks between the rim and sidewalls of your truck and equipment tires. Over the course of a few days this can lead to a loss of as much as 20 to 40 percent of the air pressure in your tires. Be sure to check your tires after the first hard cold snap and adjust the psi if necessary. Cold weather can also make tires brittle and more prone to damage, so tread lightly in operation.

Rubber hoses are also subject to brittleness and cracking or loosening up from their fittings in cold weather. Be sure to inspect these carefully before operation.

DEF Maintenance

Diesel exhaust fluid is mostly water, and it can freeze at 12-degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s Tier 4 and Tier 4 Final engines either have DEF system pre-heaters or will allow you to run them for a few minutes until the DEF in the lines and reservoir thaw out. But keep an eye on it. If it doesn’t thaw out, the engine could derate. If problems occur, call your dealer’s service department.

If you intend to store your machine in sub-freezing weather, drain the DEF reservoir. Upon restarting in warmer weather flush the DEF system with distilled water. And be sure you keep your bulk storage of DEF somewhere it won’t freeze. Otherwise, you won’t be able to dispense it.

Fuel

Number 2 diesel works fine in the warmer months and it is less expensive, but the hydrocarbons in diesel fuel can begin to gel when it drops below 40 degrees. Number 1 diesel (which you can buy at truck stops or specify from your fuel supplier) has a lower viscosity and is less likely to gel.

At the end of the day in any cold temperatures, it’s wise to top up your fuel tanks to avoid condensation and water. Use cold weather fuel additives when necessary but always make sure to check with the OEM or dealer on what additives to use. There’s a lot of snake oil out there. An engine block heater can alleviate some of these gelling problems by keeping the engine, fuel lines and injectors at a more favorable temperature when the machine is not running.

Lubes, Grease and Fluids

Prolonged cold temperatures may adversely affect engine oil, grease and hydraulic fluid making them less viscous and harder to pump. Check with your OEM dealer about best practices in your area and change these fluids before problems emerge.

If your regular grease gets too cold, it may block the lines and make it impossible to push low-viscosity/low-temp grease into the lines. Conversely, when temperatures start to rise, change back to your normal fluid regimen to prevent low-viscosity fluids from damaging your equipment.

Hydraulic Cylinders

If you intend to store a machine for the winter, spray a protective coating on the chrome to guard against rust. Even faint surface rust creates enough pitting to cause cylinder seals to leak when you start back up.

Battery Care

Heavy equipment and truck batteries do not like cold weather. Check the terminals and connections to make sure they are tight and corrosion free. Coat the battery clamps with dielectric grease to prevent mineral deposits or corrosion.

Left outside, batteries can freeze and take up to 30 hours to thaw. If that is a risk, use a battery blanket to keep your battery above 32 degrees. Have your battery and alternator tested before the cold season begins to make sure both can perform up to spec.

To Stop an Equipment Thief, Think Like an Equipment Thief

Crime is on the rise everywhere and with so many construction companies powering down in winter, equipment theft is rising accordingly. Pandemic issues such as reduced staffing and unemployment also raise risks.

Equipment thieves strike fast. They bring their own trucks and lowboys and it takes them only minutes to get a dozer, excavator or backhoe onto a trailer and down the road. In many cases, these stolen machines are loaded into a cargo container before the sun comes up (making it all but invisible to law enforcement) and then put on a ship bound for a country where they can never be traced.

But there are a number of steps you can take to keep yourself from becoming a victim of equipment theft. Here’s a checklist of things you should do short term and long term to protect your iron this winter and all season long.

Short Term Precautions

Fully illuminate your shop building and equipment yard at night and eliminate any shadowed spots where thieves might hide. New LED bulbs cast a lot of light and use less electricity than traditional lights. Install security cameras and alarms. There are hundreds of these available today, so your best bet is to hire a security consultant to help you choose a robust and tamper-proof camera system. Some of today’s security cameras can distinguish between a raccoon and a human being, so you won’t be alerted every time the local wildlife comes searching for a free meal. The price of an expert consultation on these systems is well worth the money.Regularly test your alarms and cameras to make sure they are working properly and you’re getting good images in daylight and dark.Harden your perimeter. Fences should be at least eight feet high. Razor wire isn’t pretty, but it stops people from going over the top, and cutting through a fence is noisy and time consuming. Install tamper-proof bollards at gates, so even if thieves get over the fence, it will be almost impossible for them to drive a truck into the yard or equipment out.

Long Term Solutions

Telematics have made a huge difference in equipment security. These “black boxes” can be programmed to send you an alert anytime a machine moves outside of a “geofence” you designate on the software. The better systems are hidden out of sight and difficult to tamper with and can track the equipment as it’s being hauled down the road. Most OEMs now offer their own telematics systems, but there are plenty of aftermarket vendors as well. And theft prevention is just one of the things telematics are used for. They also provide diagnostic data and information about fuel use, DEF levels, driver monitoring and all sorts of other useful information.Simpler GPS tracking devices can be attached to non-mobile equipment such as generators, compressors, welders and light towers to give you alerts and position information without the full complement or expense of mobile equipment telematics.If you want to master theft prevention as well as you’ve mastered other aspects of your business, consider downloading and studying the National Equipment Register’s Annual Theft Report. Lots of useful information and good reading for these long winter nights: https://www.ner.net/annual-theft-report/When ordering new equipment consider spec’ing machines that have keypad-only access rather than physical keys. With these, the operator must enter his personal ID or pin number to start the machine. Attempts to tamper or circumvent the system on many will result in an alert. A bonus feature on some systems is that they will store operator preferences tied to the individual ID or pin number.As a company owner or equipment manager, make sure you have photos of all your equipment, serial numbers and complete documentation to share with police in case of a theft.On the jobsite or the yard never leave equipment parked on a trailer. That’s just making it too easy to steal.When you leave a jobsite on a weekend, park all your machines nose to tail so that thieves can’t move one machine without moving the others.

In Broad Daylight

While most theft occurs at night, our sources in law enforcement say there are enterprising thieves who concoct sophisticated schemes to steal equipment on the jobsite, right under the nose of your foreman.

The scam works like this. The thieves acquire a truck and trailer, slap a fake logo of some repair shop or hauling company on the side of the truck and drive to your jobsite. They ask for the foreman and then present him with a fake work order to take a piece of equipment in for repairs. The work order may even have the logo of a local repair shop or equipment dealer and forged signatures of people from your company.

The unsuspecting foreman assumes it’s all legit and might even help the thieves load the machine onto the trailer. An hour later, that $300,000 machine might be in a cargo container headed for a port or hidden in a barn down some rural road. The truck and trailer will be sold at auction and everybody in your company starts fighting over who screwed up.

This scam works best when the jobsite is being run by an inexperienced foreman. To prevent this from happening, brief all your managers and crew members on how the scam works. Make sure people in the field clear any transfer of equipment with the shop manager or office before they let go of it.

As an extra precaution ask for the truck driver’s license, make sure the photo matches and write down the number. Also get the truck and trailer tag numbers and DOT numbers, which may help, assuming they’re not stolen as well, lead back to the thieves.

Top States for Equipment Theft

According to National Equipment Register, the top five states for equipment theft are:

#1. Texas

#2 Georgia

#3 Florida

#4 California

#5 Missouri

Top Stolen Equipment

And the equipment most targeted for theft:

#1 Skid steer

#2 Mower

#3 Tractor, wheeled

If you really want to get into this subject, take a read through our interviews with an actual equipment thief and law enforcement officers who specialize in this type of crime. Some of the technology discussed here is dated, but the insights gained are well worth your time.

And in case you missed it, take a look at this recent article we did about a guy in jail, who conned a dealership out of $2.8 million in equipment.

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https://constructionosa.org/?p=1290

Industry Roundup: Takeuchi adds East Coast dealer locations and more

Takeuchi has named GT Mid Atlantic locations in Folcroft, Pennsylvania; Vineland, New Jersey; and Freehold, New Jersey as dealers. All three locations will sell and support Takeuchi’s compact equipment, including excavators, track loaders and wheel loaders.

GT Mid Atlantic will add sales professionals at the locations to support the product line. GT Mid Atlantic, an entity of Groff Tractor, serves Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware and the Philadelphia area.

P&K Equipment acquires Standridge Equipment Co.

P&K Equipment has acquired two John Deere stores from Standridge Equipment Co., expanding its footprint to 20 locations throughout Oklahoma and Arkansas.  

P&K will retain most Standridge employees, including Trey Adams and Josh Adams, who will continue to lead the Chickasha, Oklahoma and Duncan, Oklahoma locations.

Doosan expands Canadian presence

To better serve customers in Manitoba, Doosan North America is partnering with C&C Rentals. The Brandon, Manitoba-based location will offer Doosan crawler excavators, wheel excavators, mini excavators, wheel loaders, log loaders and material handlers.

JESCO celebrates 10 years with Ditch Witch

JESCO is marking the 10th anniversary of its partnership with underground utility equipment manufacturer Ditch Witch.

JESCO says it has sold more than 2,000 mini-skid steers, nearly 3,000 Hammerhead moles and almost 500 vibratory plows across all locations during the past decade. The dealership serves the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast markets.

MANUFACTURERS & SUPPLIERS

Blastrac, Diamatic to be rebranded as Husqvarna Construction

Husqvarna Construction has announced it will be rebranding its Blastrac and Diamantic surface preparation products and integrating them into the Husqvarna offering.

The first wave of rebranded products will launch in mid-2022 and will complement the Husqvarna’s existing lineup of floor grinding, scarifying and scraping equipment. The second wave targeting spring 2023 will include shot-blasting solutions and associated dust extractors.

Husqvarna acquired Blastrac in January 2021.

Sullair acquires Compressor-Pump & Service

Sullair has acquired its Salt Lake City-based distributor, Compressor-Pump & Service. CPS will continue to operate under the same name while servicing, selling and renting Sullair industrial and portable compressed air equipment.

The distributor serves an 83-county territory which spans Utah, Northern, Central & Western Nevada, Southeastern Oregon, Central & Southern Idaho, and Southwestern Wyoming. All employees will remain with the company through the transition.

First Financial to acquire Summit Funding Group

First Financial Bancorp. has entered into an agreement to acquire Cincinnati-based Summit Funding Group, the fourth largest independent equipment financing platform in the United States. 

Summit will operate as a subsidiary of First Financial, with all current associates continuing in their positions, including Founder and CEO Rick Ross. The transaction is expected to close in 2021.

Gearflow Named one of 2021’s ‘Most Disruptive MBA Startups’

Poets&Quants has named Gearflow.com, a construction equipment parts marketplace, one of 2021’s “most disruptive MBA startups.” The honor recognizes startups that have the greatest potential for lasting beyond business school.

Gearflow aims to solve the fragmented parts procurement process and its related strain on construction productivity, by allowing equipment owners to quickly find the parts they need from trusted suppliers.

To date, Gearflow has raised $4.6 million, which includes a $3-million seed round in June 2021 and a strategic partnership with CNH Industrial, the parent company of Case Construction Equipment and New Holland Construction Equipment. 

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https://constructionosa.org/?p=1266

Tadano names Barley president

Effective January 1, Dean Barley will take the helm as president and COO of Tadano America Corp., succeeding Ingo Schiller.

Barley currently serves as vice president of customer service and general manager of Latin America sales. He initially joined Tadano in 2019 following the acquisition of Demag to run Demag as a separate division before integrating Demag cranes into Tadano’s portfolio. Before joining Tadano, he worked at Terex for more than two decades in a variety of capacities.

“I am truly honored to have the opportunity to follow Ingo in this role. He has been instrumental in developing Tadano America to the great company it is today and the Pan-America Region into the success that we are now enjoying,” says Barley.

Schiller has been promoted to chief marketing officer of Tadano Ltd. He will be responsible for all global marketing activities for the Tadano Group of companies, as well as the director of the US entity that holds both Tadano America Corp. and Tadano Mantis Corp.

Schiller joined Tadano America in 2016, becoming its president and CEO the following year. He led Tadano America through the integration of Demag Mobile Cranes into the company’s portfolio and several crane model lineup expansions for the region.

“I could not be happier with the news that Dean Barley will succeed me as I know that he brings the right talents that will help the continued growth and success of the Pan-America team. He is the right person to take this business to the next level,” says Schiller.

Along with this change, Shinichi Iimura, a long-time veteran of Tadano, will become chairman and CEO.

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Dealers, Take Note: 89% of Customers Prefer Texting

During the pandemic, we have seen an uptick in equipment purchases, and with that comes an increased demand in service departments.

This can be a good thing, especially during slower months, but many dealers are now complaining about slower response times from customers, and a backlog in equipment being worked on.

According to a recent study, more than 88% of dealers said that they need to save time and be more efficient in their service department. Around 61% of dealers said that saving time in parts and service was their big focus on 2022.

One of the main issues we are seeing so far is centered around communication between customer and dealer.

New data shows that 89% of customers prefer to have businesses send a text rather than call. This is a trend that has been growing through the pandemic. Customers want simple and direct responses to get what they want.

We also found that 98% of all text messages sent to customers are opened, and customers are seven times more likely to text you back after getting a text, than call back after getting a voicemail. This means dealers don’t need to play phone tag with customers anymore, they can text and get a response within minutes.

Make sure you don’t wait for the customer to reach out to you. Send customers a quick text with updates even if they aren’t asking for it. Tell them what you are working on, and maybe tell them what they can do to improve their equipment.

This will significantly cut down on time in service departments. If you need approval to fix something, send the customer a text with an update. You will get a quick response, rather than waiting for the customer to call you back or return a voicemail.

In recent months, we found 95% percent of all text messages are responded to within 3 minutes. No waiting around. You can get approval, get to work, and get the customer out the door.

In addition to getting approval for fixes, dealers need to have a quick and easy plan in place to allow customers to pre-pay or set up a time to come get their equipment. During the pandemic, we saw that customers do not want to wait around in-person. They want to stay distant, get updates, and limit interactions.

In the data we collected from dealers, we have seen a four-fold increase in text-to-pay in just the past year. We are also seeing some dealers running 80% of their parts and service payments through text-to-pay.

One of the key things to remember is to make the customer feel like they are part of the team. Anyone in the service department can send reminders, pictures, and videos showing what’s being worked on to let the customer experience what is being done first-hand.

If you somehow get into a lull and are looking to increase traffic in your service department, there are some simple things you can do to get things moving, and it doesn’t need to center around cold calling.

Text everyone who has bought from you in the last three years. You can set up automated reminders through any texting platform, so you don’t have to call. You can also space out these reminders to keep things flowing at a good pace in your service department during slower months.

Have a plan in place to ensure things keep moving. Make sure you keep track of who has come through your service department in recent weeks, who you have sold to, and who you are trying to target to the work flowing.


KenectKeep in mind, customers want to be texted. Phone calls just won’t cut it anymore. The pandemic has changed the way service departments operate, not just in-house, but for customers as well. Make sure you are meeting the customers in the platforms they are getting used to so you can keep communication clear, and service departments operating fully.

Ben Leighton is a Content Marketing Specialist with Kenect, a provider of simple texting tools to connect businesses with their customers.

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