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Following safety regulations on the job site isn’t just wise, it’s the law.  The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the agency under the U.S. Department of Labor that sets and enforces safety standards for construction. As a contractor, you should get very familiar with the regulations of your line of work. These are a few of the key standards you should know to stay safe and pass inspections.   PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT  Personal protective equipment (PPE) is one of the many ways construction workers can protect themselves and be safe while working. PPE minimizes exposure to hazards like mechanical...

Spring is the season of fresh starts — and there’s no better place to begin than your own backyard. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful retreat, a space to entertain, or a kid-friendly hangout, the right supplies make all the difference in pulling it off. Before you swing a hammer or dig a hole, take a look at our go-to backyard makeover supply list. It covers everything from the basics to the finishing touches — so you can spend more time enjoying your space and less time making extra trips to the store. Hardscape Materials Pavers or Flagstone For patios,...

You have the skills to build things, now you just need the skills to build a business. Starting your own contracting business is an exciting journey to go on. From talking to your network to getting the necessary licenses to building a brand on social media, a lot goes into creating a business. Use these tips to get started on turning your construction expertise into a thriving business.  CREATE A BUSINESS PLAN All strong businesses begin with a business plan. To start, learn about your competition and what the local market looks like. Creating a business plan entails figuring out...

Spring is here, and it's the perfect time to tackle those home improvement projects you've been putting off during the winter months. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, April brings the promise of warmer weather, longer days, and the opportunity to transform your home and outdoor spaces. But before you start, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Here’s a list of must-have tools that will help you make the most of your spring home projects. 1. Cordless Drill/Driver A cordless drill/driver is a staple in every toolbox and one of the most versatile tools...

Whether your home is newly constructed or purchased from a previous owner, painting its exterior is the first step toward putting your personal stamp on the home. Likewise, if you’re looking to sell the house, an attractive exterior paint job goes a long way toward creating “curb appeal.” The first step is choosing the correct products (brushes, primers, and paint). The second step is to understand the relationship (adhesion quality) between paint and different species of wood. How well exterior paints and stains adhere to wood is a direct result of the properties of the wood itself. As an example,...