Industrial demolition can be as straightforward as swinging a wrecking ball to knock down a structure or as intricate as disintegrating a building using jackhammers and pry bars. Every industrial environment is unique, and so are the objectives behind the demolition. If you are looking to demolish your industrial building,
Are you in the market for a kitchen renovation? If so, you’re not alone! There has been a surge in popularity for kitchen renovations in recent years. Homeowners now realize that kitchens are more than just a functional space – they can be a beautiful and stylish part of the
The right renovation can boost your property’s value, optimize its square footage, improve your home’s functionalities – and even offer a whopping average ROI of over 60%! But, if you have been delaying getting started on your project, you are not alone. Most renovation projects come with upfront costs that
The cost of property in Colleyville is increasing rapidly. Buying a new place due to roof damage is not feasible for everybody. Now, one can easily hire a roofing contractor to get their roof repaired or reinstalled. A roofing contractor in Colleyville offers a variety of services to their clients.
The annual Renovation Nation Report by the consumer spending experts at money.co.uk has found the average UK homeowner has spent £1,473 on home renovations, furnishing and DIY projects in 2021. What part of the home have UK homeowners spent the most money on? After almost a year of being confined to our homes, it’s
Working with wood is not just an essential part of most homeowners in the modern world; it is also a stress-relieving therapy for tired minds that need rest. It can also boost creativity in ordinary folks as they learn to make functional and innovative items with various wood types. Beginners
With the increased pace of life and tiresome routine, most of the extensive gestures of interior and home décor are being neglected easily. Though that might seem like an efficient move at the moment, the absence of a homely image often leads to more severe problems. This can range from
Many individuals find the notion of leading a simple life with fewer material possessions appealing. But they often become overwhelmed, nervous, and dejected upon the prospect of owning less. It’s true that decluttering your home and decluttering your life might not be as unpleasant as some people make it out
Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, said: “New data has revealed that the number of people employed in the UK construction industry jumped by 21,000 at the end of last year, which is the largest increase since 2009. This is brilliant news for the sector. “In December, the workforce rose to
Rigging machines like cranes use various components to operate, including a wire rope. Proper choice, installation, use, and maintenance are essential to keep the rope in top condition for a longer time. However, even with appropriate care, it will eventually reach its end of life, as it’s still an object
Industrial demolition can be as straightforward as swinging a wrecking ball to knock down a structure or as intricate as disintegrating a building using jackhammers and pry bars. Every industrial environment is unique, and so are the objectives behind the demolition. If you are looking to demolish your industrial building, it is important to do it the right way to avoid any safety hazards or obstructions to the redevelopment project. Here’s a 6-step approach that you can follow to get the job done to your satisfaction and objectives. #1 Creating a Decommissioning Plan As an owner or site manager, you need to consider various aspects of your demolition project and communicate your requirements clearly to the service provider. This is crucial to creating your project’s decommissioning plan, which defines the scope of work, risk assessments and waste management. All these factors put together will be subject to approval by authorities before the demolition begins. It is important to have all the drawing plans and site specifications ready before the demolition team arrives. Allow them a couple of hours or days to pour through the documents and provide a time and price estimate. #2 Make Your Key People Part of the Process People who have been running your industrial site for years should be actively involved in the demolition process. In some cases, demolition can take months or even years to complete. Having your key people to oversee and advise throughout the process will help the demolition team decommission your industrial site efficiently. Making your demolition service provider fully aware of your site’s nuances, past accidents, and critical zones will allow them to decommission your site to the best quality and safety standards. #3 Cleaning and Decontamination Accidents can happen in any industrial environment. Suppose one of your employees spilled a barrel of chemicals 5 years ago. Your demolition team must know about this accident so they can decontaminate and clean accordingly, paving the way for environmentally-friendly redevelopment projects. Not just floors, but the equipment, ducts and machinery should also be thoroughly cleaned before the demolition work begins. #4 Removal/Disposal of Assets Once the demolition team is through with the planning and decontamination, they will begin to mobilize the crew to your site. All your equipment and machinery will be transported to a storage or recycling facility as instructed by you. Things can get misplaced or broken when it comes to a process as massive as industrial demolition. That said, equipment handling and transportation is an important step where the involvement of your key personnel is essential. #5 Strip-Out and Waste Management The demolition method can vary depending on your requirements and objectives. Whether it’s total demolition for a vacant site or selective demolition for a mothballed facility, it is important to discuss your options with your service provider before proceeding. Once the demolition is complete, and all that is left to handle is asbestos and universal waste, the next step is waste management. However, demolition and waste management can go hand in hand in some cases. Waste management may include flushing tanks and pipes that carry harmful chemicals or ammonia. The process will also include the disposal of universal waste in an off-site landfill. #6 Closeout and Site Handover Your demolition service provider will maintain a record of every activity as your demolition progresses through stages. Once the demolition is complete, assets are secured, and the waste is carried off to a designated landfill, the site will be handed over to the next concerned entity for redevelopment. Final Words From preparing industrial or commercial demolition for Total Wrecking to asset management, waste disposal and recycling, your participation can be invaluable to the process. Therefore, it is important to hire a demolition team that can work closely with you and stick to the guidelines to keep legal troubles off the fence.
Are you in the market for a kitchen renovation? If so, you’re not alone! There has been a surge in popularity for kitchen renovations in recent years. Homeowners now realize that kitchens are more than just a functional space – they can be a beautiful and stylish part of the home. If you’re looking for some unique kitchen remodel ideas to help inspire your renovation, read on! When Should You Renovate Your Kitchen? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best time to renovate your kitchen will vary depending on your individual needs and preferences. However, there are a few general things to keep in mind when deciding whether or not to renovate your kitchen. One of the most important factors to consider is your current kitchen layout. If you’re not content with the way your kitchen is currently laid out, a renovation may be the perfect solution. Similarly, if your kitchen is outdated or in need of repair, a renovation will likely be more cost-effective than attempting to fix individual problems. What are Some Unique Kitchen Renovation Ideas? When it comes to renovating a kitchen, there can be endless possibilities. You can mix and match styles and ideas to get the best outcome as per your wish. However, if you’re looking for something unique, here are six ideas to get you started: 1. Install a Kitchen Island: A kitchen island can provide additional counter space, storage, and seating – perfect for busy families or those who love to cook. 2. Add a Breakfast Bar: A breakfast bar is a great way to add extra seating and storage to your kitchen. It is also used as a makeshift dining area for casual meals. 3. Create a Chef’s Kitchen: If you love to cook, consider creating a chef’s kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and plenty of counter space. 4. Install a Backsplash: A backsplash can add style and personality to your kitchen. It’s also an excellent way to save your walls from splashes and spills. 5. Add Built-in Shelving: Built-in shelving is a great way to add extra storage to your kitchen. It can also display dishes, cookbooks, or other items. 6. Paint Your Cabinets: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to update your kitchen, consider painting your cabinets. This simple change can significantly impact your space’s overall look and feel. Top Kitchen Renovation Trends Here are six kitchen design trends predicted to be popular in 2022: 1. Mixed Materials: One of the biggest trends in kitchen design is mixing different types of materials. It can add visual interest and create a unique look for your kitchen. Common combinations include wood and metal, stone and concrete, or tile and fabric. 2. Matte Finishes: A trend gaining popularity in recent years is matte finishes. These give your kitchen a sleek, modern look and are a great alternative to traditional glossy finishes. 3. Natural Materials: Another trend to make rounds is using natural materials in the kitchen. It can include stone countertops, wooden cabinets, and metal fixtures. It can give the kitchen a warm and rustic feel. 4. Industrial Style: If you’re looking for a more modern and industrial look, there are a few trends to consider. One is using black appliances and hardware. Another is adding concrete or brick accents to the kitchen. 5. Bold Colors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with color in your kitchen! Nowadays, more and more homeowners use bold, bright colors to add personality to their space. This can be anything from a brightly colored backsplash to cabinets in a fun hue. 6. Unique Storage: One final trend in kitchens is unique storage solutions. This can include open shelving, creative cabinet organization, or hidden storage areas. These are just a few trends and kitchen remodel ideas that will be popular in 2022. If you’re planning a renovation, keep these ideas in mind to create a stylish and unique space that you’ll love for years to come. Consult the best kitchen renovation company in your area to get guidance and design ideas.
The right renovation can boost your property’s value, optimize its square footage, improve your home’s functionalities – and even offer a whopping average ROI of over 60%! But, if you have been delaying getting started on your project, you are not alone. Most renovation projects come with upfront costs that would put off even the most motivated of homeowners! Luckily, there are several finance options that can help you fit a renovation project into your current budget. Start with the ones below. Take Out a Home Equity Line of Credit Over three-quarters of Americans believe that real estate is the safest and most beneficial investment. After all, owning your own home can be an important step towards financial freedom and long-term wealth. But even more importantly, holding equity in a property can give you access to a wide range of financial benefits. For example, if you hold at least 20% equity in your home, you may be eligible for a Home Equity Line of Credit – also known as HELOC. A HELOC allows you to access a revolving credit line that often has low and tax-deductible interest rates and can be used to cover large expenses. HELOCs are secured by your property, using it as collateral in the case of missed repayments. Apply For a Home Equity Loan Another way to use your home equity to finance your renovations is to apply for a home equity loan. These loans, also known as second mortgages, allow homeowners with a minimum equity of 20% and a loan-to-value ratio below 80% to use their home’s equity to secure the funds necessary for a renovation. What you need to know about home equity loans is that they come with associated closing costs similar to the ones of your first mortgage – which can amount to 2-5% of the loan’s value. These loans might not offer the lowest interest rates, but, unlike a revolving line of credit or credit cards, they provide borrowers with the benefit of an expected and regular repayment schedule. Consider the Benefits of a Cash-Out Refinance Cash-out refinance is an excellent option to upgrade your current mortgage, benefit from more favorable terms, and take advantage of today’s low interest rate environment. But what’s even more important is that refinancing your mortgage can help you get some extra cash that you can use to pay for your property renovation. It’s a win-win situation! Use Your Credit Card If you can keep expenditures within the 30% utilization rate and repay your balance within weeks, credit cards provide a much more accessible and straightforward alternative to loans or mortgages. What’s more is that your credit card provider might offer rewards, bonuses, and 0% APR for a few months or weeks. Using your credit card to pay for a renovation project during this period can help you enjoy the greatest benefits without having to worry about high interest rates. Pay For It in Cash Loans, mortgages, and lines of credit can help you finance your property renovation without having to face steep upfront costs. But if you have enough cash to cover the costs of the project, paying out of your pocket can help you avoid added fees, penalties, and repayment schedules. If you are looking to renovate on a budget, paying for all or a percentage of your project in cash can help avoid interest and save up to 6% on closing costs. Taking Out a Mortgage: How Much Will it Cost? Taking out a loan or mortgage is the most popular way for homeowners to finance a home renovation. And, with the right financial product, this solution is perfect for homeowners to avoid large upfront costs, take advantage of high returns, and enjoy affordable monthly rates. However, before diving into the search for the right loan, it is crucial to understand what to expect from monthly repayments, associated fees, and the length of the agreement. A mortgage calculator can help you better understand how a mortgage will impact your financial situation, what to expect from monthly repayments, and what kind of interest rates you’ll be able to secure. Once you know all this, it is much easier to choose a mortgage product with confidence. Bottom Line Renovation projects can impact several aspects of your life, from your home’s value to your property’s livability and insurance costs. If the aspect that has been putting you off from renovating your kitchen or bathroom is the project’s upfront costs, you could take advantage of the strategies seen above. But don’t forget to consult your financial advisor before taking this important step.
The cost of property in Colleyville is increasing rapidly. Buying a new place due to roof damage is not feasible for everybody. Now, one can easily hire a roofing contractor to get their roof repaired or reinstalled. A roofing contractor in Colleyville offers a variety of services to their clients. They can install a new roof, repair an old one, or perform routine maintenance on roofs. If you require any Colleyville roofing services, it is important to research local contractors and find one that offers the services that you need. When To Hire Roofing Contractors? There is no definitive answer to this question, as it will depend on each homeowner’s specific requirements. However, in general, it is ideal to hire a roofing contractor when you need a new roof installed, when your current roof is in bad condition and needs repairs, or when you want routine maintenance. Benefits Of Hiring: Peace Of Mind When you hire a professional roofing contractor, you can rest assured that the job will be done right. They have the relevant experience and expertise to get the job done correctly. Saves Time And Money Roofing contractors can save your time and money. They will be able to complete the job quickly and efficiently. In addition, they may also offer discounts or specials on their services. Convenience Hiring a roofing contractor is very convenient. They will come to your office or home and do the work for you. It means that you won’t have to take time out of your busy schedule to do the work yourself. High-Quality Work One of the benefits of a roofing contractor is the work will be of high quality. They use only the best materials and equipment to get the job done right. What Services Do They Offer? Some of the essential services that the Colleyville roofing contractors offer are- Assessment The contractor will come and check the condition of your roof. They will look for any damage or wear and tear. After this, they will give you a report of their findings. Consultation After the assessment, the roofing contractor will sit down with you and discuss your options. They will give further opinion on what needs to be done. They will discuss the cost of the services with you and provide you with a breakdown of the expenses and the prospects of each type of solution. Project Management After you have decided on the course of action, the contractor will manage the project from start to finish. It includes ordering materials, scheduling workers, and ensuring that the job is done right. This is an essential service as it lessens your burden and ensures that the project is completed on time and within budget. Installation And Repair Work Roofing contractors typically perform a variety of installation and maintenance work on roofs. It may include installing new roofs, repairing old ones, or performing routine maintenance. In addition to this, they may also offer other services such as gutter installation and repairs, chimney repairs, and more. Clean Up Of Debris After completing the job, they will clean up and remove all debris, including old roofing materials, cleaning gutters, and downspouts. They will also inspect the area to ensure no damage and that everything is in working order. Warranty And Maintenance Most contractors offer some warranty on their work. This is important if there are any problems with the roof after being installed or repaired. In addition to this, they may also offer routine maintenance services to keep your roof in good condition. These services may include inspections, repairs, and more. Follow Up On The Project After the project is completed, the roofing contractor will follow up with you to ensure that everything is satisfactory. They may also ask for feedback on their services to improve upon them in the future. If you need any roofing services in Colleyville, it is important to research local contractors and find one that offers the services that you need. You can find them locally with the help of online forums or by reference.
The annual Renovation Nation Report by the consumer spending experts at money.co.uk has found the average UK homeowner has spent £1,473 on home renovations, furnishing and DIY projects in 2021. What part of the home have UK homeowners spent the most money on? After almost a year of being confined to our homes, it’s perhaps unsurprising that one in five (20%) of UK homeowners have spent the majority of their home improvement money on their garden. Area of the home UK homeowners have spent the most money on Percentage Garden 20% Living room 17% Bedroom 14% Kitchen 14% Bathroom 9% Dining Room 3% Study/office 3% Roof 3% Conservatory 2% Garage/garage conversion 2% Loft/attic 2% Balcony 1% Basement 1% Annexe 1% Our love of gardening has blossomed during and following the pandemic. When asked what home projects they’d invest in if money were no object, a third (32%) of respondents said a garden summer house or work studio and almost a fifth (18%) said a greenhouse or vegetable patch. This green-fingered trend could be seen across the age groups, with the exception of Gen Z who claimed their kitchen was the room they’d spent the most on in 2021, and a home gym would be the top priority if money were no object. Which area of the home would Brits invest in if money were no object? If money was no object, which home projects would you consider investing in, as a direct result of the pandemic, if any? Area of the home Percentage of respondents Garden summer house/work studio 31.62% Greenhouse/vegetable patch 17.86% Indoor gym 17.21% Leisure room 15.76% Office 12.52% Outdoor/indoor pub or bar 12.07% More walls/rooms for more privacy 8.28% Other, please specify 8.18% Bike storage 7.28% Classroom 3.39% Top home furnishing purchases in 2021 Furniture / Home Accessory Percentage of respondents Lamps/Lighting 41% Cushions 40% Curtains/Blinds 39% Mattress 30% Artwork 29% Sofa/Armchair 28% Bookcases/shelving 28% Bed 28% Vases 27% Clocks 26% Storage cabinet 26% Office chair 24% Top 5 retailers to purchase furniture in 2021 Retailer Percentage of respondents Ikea 27.03% Dunelm 27.03% Next 17.13% The Range 17.13% John Lewis 16.47% How have UK homeowners funded their renovations projects? The majority of UK homeowners have used some form of savings as a way of funding their home improvements, with 20% using money originally intended for holidays. Seven percent of UK homeowners have used funds originally intended to purchase a car, and 5% using cash originally intended for an engagement ring. Why are UK homeowners investing in their properties? While over half of UK homeowners may have cited the pandemic playing a significant role in their decision to dabble with DIY, money.co.uk were also interested in finding out the reason why so many of us are spending time and money on our homes in 2021. Over a quarter (27%) of those asked said that spending less money on going out had given them more money to spend on their homes and over a fifth (22%) cited wanting to increase the value of their home.
Working with wood is not just an essential part of most homeowners in the modern world; it is also a stress-relieving therapy for tired minds that need rest. It can also boost creativity in ordinary folks as they learn to make functional and innovative items with various wood types. Beginners can refer to reliable guides offered on reputable sources like Saws Hub to know more in-depth about woodworking as a hobby or profession. The details provided in these websites can help them pick the right tools, invest in the appropriate safety equipment, and know which project is best to begin with. In the meantime, you can browse the ensuing information to understand the basics of woodworking better and go about it the apt way. Woodworking and its types Although it began as a profession, the art of making fantastic pieces of functional and decorative items from a wide range of wood varieties is more of a hobby today. The growing interest in this spectacular art is the reason behind the increased production of cutting and forming tools in recent years. But most people might not know that there are different types of woodworking, such as whittling, which involves raw wood pieces using a sharp knife, and woodturning, where one can make stunning bowls and pivots using a lathe. Then there is the scroll-saw machine that people use to make curves on thin wood to create delicate 3D artifacts. Many people indulge in wood carving as a hobby, creating intricate designs on tupelo and basswood using chisels, mallets, gouges, and knives. Others are more construction-oriented, fashioning chairs, cabinets, tables, recliners, sofas, and a range of other functional items. Skills you need It is indeed true that you need not be an expert to start woodworking. However, knowing a few basics of the job and being armed with specific skills can help take you long. For example, knowledge of various wood types, their properties, and what each variety is suitable for can be constructive for beginners. Along the same lines, you should try finding out more about the tools you will soon be using when you begin woodworking. You can start by studying the tools needed to polish, carve, sand, and finish, among other things. Also, learn how to choose screws and develop a keen eye for diverse joints and cuts. What tools to buy It is critically important to buy the right tools before you begin woodworking if you want to do an excellent job. Find the appropriate hand tools that work without electricity, such as chisels, a sliding bevel, hammer, punches, hand saw, and utility knives. Also, remember to buy measuring tape and layout squares to mark the wood effectively. When it comes to power tools, popular options include angle grinders, drills, a jigsaw, wood router, table saw, nail guns, and more. Ensure to buy from reputable dealers with experience in selling high-quality woodworking tools at reasonable prices. Use expert guidance Dependable sources such as Saws Hub can guide you through a range of essential tasks before woodworking like a pro. For instance, you can check their guides on determining the right tools to buy or the kind of wood to begin working with. Similarly, you can also ask your local, trusted expert for tips on becoming adept at cutting, shaping, and polishing various types of wood. People who view woodworking as a full-time profession will benefit from an apprenticeship at a reputable company or under a renowned contractor. Consider starting small Several amateurs make the mistake of taking on massive, complicated projects after being inspired by what they find on the internet. But this can be a terrible mistake as it can destroy their confidence if the result is not as expected. So, instead of rushing, start by building relatively small albeit challenging items, such as a chair or a coffee table, and build from there as you keep getting better with each project.
With the increased pace of life and tiresome routine, most of the extensive gestures of interior and home décor are being neglected easily. Though that might seem like an efficient move at the moment, the absence of a homely image often leads to more severe problems. This can range from a mild degree of discomfort to full-blown depression. Thanks to the innovative thinking of service providers, there are currently teams that provide all necessary help in these endeavors. Here are a few such service groups which you should keep in mind while decorating and maintaining your home scape. Apps and memberships One of the most common complaints with maintaining a fully designed house is the maintenance. It is safe to say that most people even despise the monthly or annual maintenance checks. If you fall under that category, you are in for a treat because there are currently several apps and software-guided platforms that provide help with all the processes involved. These apps also come with provisions that allow customers to subscribe to their services for a specific period of time. This usually covers the regular maintenance checks along with the rectification and clarification of any issues that may arise within the time frame for which the membership has been purchased. Online Yellow Pages Initially, the most common response to any issue arising within the household ranging from a water leak to a blackout, would be to scroll through the yellow pages and find the appropriate professional for the situation and then call them for help. With digitalization happening in every possible sector, the yellow pages are also available for easy access on several online forums which are commonly used by all individuals. These records are often updated and contain authentic information from skilled service providers. These compilers often take it upon themselves to inspect and review these service teams before adding them to their data list, thereby ensuring proper quality of work. The review wing With the increased curiosity of customers and their concern for proper services, there has been a notable increase in the readers of homestyle magazines on both online and offline modes. This prompted these magazines to improve on their customer-written columns and review pages, which eventually led to the creation of an exclusive section for articles providing reliable reviews and suggestions. Online forums There are several chat rooms and small groups which are devoted to sharing information regarding home decor on many popular social networking sites. These groups often include individuals sharing their personal findings and suggestions for everyone to review and reflect upon. They also hold specific question and answer sessions where the users are encouraged to clarify each other’s doubts and concerns while also providing expert opinions on the issue at hand. For example, if there is someone enquiring about carpet fitters Brighton, any user in the forum can provide appropriate suggestions. This widens the population from which suggestions are being taken, thereby allowing for raw and natural reviews which are not altered or edited. Conclusion To wrap things up, it is to be noted here that the process of decorating and designing your living space does not have to be a very elaborate or difficult process, with all the professional help and services which are up for grabs. These services often differ from place to place since they are often provided by small local groups which are limited to a specific area. Hence be sure to make a note of such available services in your own place and around, as it would help make your housing process several times easier and take off a serious part of your burden.
Many individuals find the notion of leading a simple life with fewer material possessions appealing. But they often become overwhelmed, nervous, and dejected upon the prospect of owning less. It’s true that decluttering your home and decluttering your life might not be as unpleasant as some people make it out to be. The advantages are numerous. And with help from Shift’s man and van service, the whole process won’t be as daunting as you think. The Advantages of Organizing Your Life There are several advantages to having less stuff. Even so, taking action is difficult. That is… until the numerous advantages of decluttering become apparent: Less to clean. Cleaning is already a pain, but having to clean around things you have no personal connection with (or worse, actively dislike) increases stress levels significantly. Less to organise. You can now freely move about your house and appreciate the space without having to push around things that are getting in your way. Less stress. When your house gets cluttered enough, taking a look around is nauseating. Wouldn’t it be great to be able to wander about and see a home you enjoy? Less debt. Shopping less for physical items and accumulating clutter means your wallet and bank accounts are fuller, your credit card bills are lower, and your home does not get filled with expensive things you don’t need. More financial freedom. According to a recent poll done by Charles Schwab in May 2019, almost 60% of American families live on the edge financially. Almost half of those polled had credit card debt. Decluttering, when combined with minimalism, may assist you in building up a reserve of cash that will help you weather unexpected crises. More energy for your greatest passions. You can now concentrate on the things you enjoy rather than “Keeping up with the Joneses,” which will make you happier in the long run. So, you’ve heard all about the advantages of decluttering your life. You may be stumped, though, by the next question… Where do you start? 5 Creative Decluttering Tips If you’re having trouble decluttering, you’ll need to be creative with your ideas. Here are a few interesting decluttering methods to get you started: 1- Start with 5 minutes at a time. If you’re just getting started decluttering, you may gradually increase the amount of time you spend doing it. 2- Give away one thing each day. Every year, you’ll get rid of 365 items by doing this. If you upped it to 2 per day, you’d have given away 730 things you didn’t need any more after a year. Increase the total number as soon as it gets too simple. 3- Fill a garbage bag to the brim. Fill a trash bag as quickly as you can with objects that may be donated to chairty. 4- Donate clothes that you will never wear. They’ll be easy to spot if you hang all of your garments on hangers in the wrong direction. After putting on an item, face the hanger in the appropriate way. After a few months, discard any clothes you’ve never handled. 5- Make a decluttering to-do list. It’s simpler to tidy up when you have a visual representation of where you need to begin. You may use our decluttering guide as a template.
Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, said: “New data has revealed that the number of people employed in the UK construction industry jumped by 21,000 at the end of last year, which is the largest increase since 2009. This is brilliant news for the sector. “In December, the workforce rose to 455,000 employees, which represented a rise of 5% from September, and the most significant increase since June 2009. “This trend looks set to continue, as there are still 50,000 vacancies for jobs in the industry (December to February 2022), which is the most since records began in 2001. “Furthermore, workers are also benefiting from record levels of income, with the average weekly earnings in construction reaching £691. This is up £3 from the previous data, and the highest on record. “Earnings in the electricity, gas and water supply sector also rose, from £749 in December to £753 in January. This is up £3 from the same period last year. “In terms of hours worked, the average weekly figure dropped slightly, from 35.3 (October to December) to 35.2 (November to January). However, this is still considerably higher than in 2021, when it stood at 32.2 hours. “Furthermore, for women in the construction industry, the typical number of hours worked actually rose. Between November and January, the average was 29.3 for female workers – up slightly from 29 between October to December. “This all suggests that UK construction is set for a positive spring and summer, and with the cost of living and inflation rate soaring, this will be welcome news for many.” For more information on IronmongeryDirect, visit: https://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/ For more information on ElectricalDirect, visit: https://www.electricaldirect.co.uk/
Rigging machines like cranes use various components to operate, including a wire rope. Proper choice, installation, use, and maintenance are essential to keep the rope in top condition for a longer time. However, even with appropriate care, it will eventually reach its end of life, as it’s still an object prone to natural wear and tear. There are various causes of wire rope damage, and you must be familiar with them as a crane owner. It helps determine an issue on the first sign and act on it immediately before it leads to failure. Neglecting it may cause injuries, property damage, and delay in the business operation. Check out some of the common causes of wire rope problems below. Abrasion Improper wire contact to the drum, sheave or other objects can cause abrasion damage. Other causes include incorrect rope size, wrong fleet angle, poor spooling, and frozen rollers. Signs of this damage are worn ends as thin as the edge of a knife. Prevent this problem by ensuring proper installation and using the right wire rope size. Corrosion You would see the corroded part externally, but it would be hard to tell the extent of the damage through the naked eye, thus making it more dangerous. Some of the causes of corrosion damage are improper lubrication, exposure to substances like acid, and improper storage. Store equipment appropriately and ensure proper lubrication to prevent corrosion on wire rope. If you want to ensure that it is still safe for use, consult an expert like a service provider specialising in PM, ATLAS, and Hyva cranes. If the rope needs replacement, they can also advise the right one to use and help with proper installation. Fatigue The repetitive rubbing of the wire rope on the sheave and drum could cause damage due to fatigue. It’s one of the easiest to detect because you can immediately see it with your naked eyes. Individual wires would break, making them weak and eventually affecting the other wires, then leading to failure. Excessive rubbing may be due to vibration, worn bearings, and incorrect rope diameter. Prevent these issues to avoid premature failure due to fatigue. Kinked The kinking of wire ropes could be due to improper unreeling of the rope, incorrect sheave size, and poor rope installation. Be sure to choose the correct sheave size that matches your rope. Moreover, ensure that you unreel and install it the right way. Looped wires also have similar causes. Tension Carrying a load more than its capacity can cause the wire rope to break due to tension. You will see cuts on the individual wires on one end. Consider the load limit of the rope, and ensure that you stay within that limit to extend its life. Core protrusion This is characterised by the rope’s core protruding out. One of its causes is unwanted rope twists, which may occur with improper installation. Poor seizing methods and shock loading are also other possible causes. Keep your wire rope in check for any damage, and fix or replace it as needed to ensure safe operation.
