So yeah everything in home depot is chinese no matter what brand. You gotta go to like a independent tool seller or the makita truck guy to get the good stuff. Or just order off Amazon like I did. here is a fatty impact still made in japan. Gotta pay up tho.
It’s just like the “conflict free diamonds” . They can call it what they want, who’s going to trace all those steps?
I believe most IPE and other exotic woods are being illegally harvested.
Quick dry shirts I can recommend this shirt with confidence.
Tip I received from a senior, switch your socks mid day. Not only for health, but to help maintain your boots (all seasons)
Don't know what exactly you're looking for but my state has a pocket guide showing the various zone setups. It's a nice quick reference instead of looking through a several hundred page pdf. Standards vary by state so won't be 100% accurate, don't know if there's anything for your area.
Check out Rite in the rain notepads. I used to use them surveying and for field notes and they work great. They sell a special weatherproof pen, but I always just used a pencil with no problems.
I have a work cargo trailer and an emergency cassette toilet. I very rarely have to use it but the few time I have had an emergency, it has been there for me.
This is my go-to saw. For quick cuts; it's done by hand before I can find the power saw and plug it in, and with much less sawdust!
I'd get better prepared if I were you. Don't take this the wrong way, but 8 years in construction and oil field and you haven't learned how to read plans yet? Figure out what makes you more money and then get those certs.
Google that shit! https://www.slideshare.net/LisaThompsonSmeddle/14014-mr-e
Don't understand the symbols? Google that shit...
Yeah, maybe you are underpaid (although Texas and that whole Gulf area is one of the most notorious underpaying areas), but find a way to build a better case.
Highly doubtful you would find it in a 2006 home. I have only seen asbestos containing material from that era used industrially for components built in China. If you pass along your specific concerns (ie building materials that may contain) and location (state/county/province) I can comment further.
I am an environmental consultant and asbestos specialist. If you are looking to learn more about asbestos, please read my ebook it's free for Amazon Kindle Unlimited members or a low cost educational guide for non-members.
https://www.amazon.com/Asbestos-Exposed-definitive-identification-including-ebook/dp/B08H2KS528
Wear long sleeve polyester shirts, and get yourself one of those big straw hats... Like this https://www.amazon.com/Quiksilver-Mens-Pierside-Sun-Natural/dp/B07S114RBW/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?_encoding=UTF8&c=ts&dchild=1&keywords=Men%27s+Sun+Hats&qid=1595390366&sr=8-5&ts_id=2578668011 It looks silly but youve seen guys wear it and it makes a hell of a difference... It's like waking around with an umbrella
Drink a few tall glasses of water first thing in the morning. Eat well, stay healthy
Avoid cotton
Only 19 bucks for 200, premade so you don't have to wait and they cover the whole shoe!
Get a better one with a ratchet suspension like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BC5MQ4/
The key for MSA is the Fas-Trac system; other brands have their own ratchets.
Totally worth throwing a few bucks at. Winter time and you're wearing a beanie? Loosen it up. Know you're going to be bending over a lot? Crank it down a notch or two.
Also I'd recommend a flannel pad for the front of the suspension, they absorb sweat better than the standard plastic one that comes with the hardhat. Also available on Amazon and they can be washed a few times before they're shot. Note that you will have to remove the existing pad before installing the flannel.
I bought this one because sometimes it’s just nice to have a good face mask at work. Pandemic aside.
Cooler Shock Reusable Ice Pack - Long Lasting Cold Freezer Packs for Coolers & Lunch Bags - Compress for Knee Injuries, Back Pain Relief, Post-Surgery Accessories https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078FR9CND/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_DKAN83J39SE2MSKM9WAK?psc=1
I use these inside up against the back
Cooler Shock Reusable Ice Pack - Long Lasting Cold Freezer Packs for Coolers & Lunch Bags - Compress for Knee Injuries, Back Pain Relief, Post-Surgery Accessories https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078FR9CND/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_DKAN83J39SE2MSKM9WAK?psc=1
“Carpentry” by Leonard Koel is pretty good and very easy to read through.
It’s not a narrow “how to build a house” book, but it covers everything from soils through layout, foundations, framing, interior and exterior finishes, etc.
They are cheap used, I recommend the accompanying workbook as a study aid.
Agree. Light colored clothing if possible. Neck protection too, check the link below
I’ve been using these for years as a fat resi carpenter in the hot humid south.
DRIEQUIP Men's Big & Tall Short Sleeve Moisture Wicking Athletic T-Shirts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078R2R36G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_WX8VFS8BCN1VWK26VQNX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I’ve never had any issues with stink, even when they’re piled in the hamper for a week waiting for laundry day.
Also finish carpenter/interior remodels and these shoes are awesome. Breathable yet get the comfort of steel toe and Kevlar sole, and really reasonably priced. Also so quick to slip in and out of houses quickly
SUADEX Steel Toe Shoes Men Women, Safety Work Indestructible Shoes Lightweight Breathable Industrial Construction Non Slip Puncture Proof Composite Toe Shoes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VZ3TPJR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_DY7Y9GQGKN5ZPD072R9H?psc=1
Good photos and thank you for posting.
Pipe lagging or wrap that contains asbestos is a thermal system insulation and is generally friable due to poor condition as it degrades over time.
The red piping in the photo does not appear to have any wrap or lagging but you have a good eye to be concerned. It could be in such poor condition it has degraded but my feeling is it's dust. Just below the red pipe is a valve that definitely has a lagging or wrap on it and potentially another pipe with the same. In what country is this mechanical room/area located?
If any disturbance or retrofit is planned in the area it is best to contact a qualified person for asbestos sampling and analysis of any lagging or wrap. Though the building operations manager may already have completed this, it's your right to ask/know. If you are looking to learn more about asbestos please read my ebook it's free for Amazon Kindle unlimited members and a low cost educational guide for non-members.
https://www.amazon.com/Asbestos-Exposed-definitive-identification-including/dp/B08H566HPS
I recently bought these Merrell boots, which was one of the best-reviewed options I could find. I had never even heard of the brand before - also compared them to ones from Columbia and Timberland, but wow, they are absolutely amazing and worth every penny. Like walking on clouds.
(I swear I am not a shill, and in fact almost never recommend any product online, but these have impressed me that much)
That seems amazing, but looked online and it's $700? Damn. I'm only a hobbyist and not a professional, so I can't afford something so fancy.
I'm also in the US, and just tried searching and found this product from a brand I haven't heard of, and it's $130.
Just based purely on the product description of that one and your own experience, is there anything that would give you hesitation about buying that, assuming you didn't already have the ultra-fancy one?
I haven't seen a true estimating app, but I do use "Handyman Calculator" fairly regularly. Google Play store link
It does have some bloat (it's unlikely I'll need to convert pounds of jet a-1 fuel into imperial gallons or use the oil drilling specific gravity calc) but you can filter the un-used ones out.
Slump test results for ASTM or AASHTO is provided to the nearest 1/4". The accuracy and bias section of the tests give an acceptable multi-operator difference of about +/- 1/2" for a given sample from what I recall.
So yes, it's fair to say that the repeatability and accuracy of the test is rather loose.
If you want to get an idea of the accuracy and repeatability of the K-slump test, take a look at the associated ASTM test procedure (C 1362) and look for a precision and bias statement at the end.
This literature here indicates an multi-operator difference of 9mm (~.35"), and a range of 18.3mm (~.75"), but doesn't say on what slumps/'workability'.
I like Airtable. It's essentially just a database/spreadsheet app, but it has a ton of functionality built on top (e.g. adding people to a task) that makes it easy to scale up the complexity if you need to.
There is plenty of opportunity for a guy like you. Depending on what your skills are you could create proprietary software for a company, be a SharePoint developer, get into BIM, whatever your IT interests are, I'm sure there is an application in the construction market. Indeed.com is a good source for construction jobs too.
Kask Super Plasma is my current helmet. I absolutely love it. It meets all safety requirements and you can order a ton of accessories for it from face shields to hearing protection etc.
I have a copy of this poster hanging at home for exactly this situation:
Buyartforless Futurama You're not Paid to Think 36x24 TV Art Print Poster Cartoon Humor Animation - Shut Up and Do Your Job https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013MF3LRS/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_G4VXCS9TPGAQM1FDN00N
A leader should always empower their people to ask questions and learn.
I agree with what people have said about getting some experience. You don't need school (like college) but you will need education (learning the ins-and-outs of the trades).
Jumping right in is tempting but you'll gain more, probably make more, and keep more, if you work for someone else for 3 to 5 years.
If you're curious about the business side of things, this book is a great introduction. https://www.amazon.com/Running-Successful-Construction-Company-Pros/dp/1561585300/ref=asc_df_1561585300/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312111868535&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4323292278373329202&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqm...
If you're really in a hurry to make it happen, I'd recommend getting a job for a local contractor. Make sure it's doing the kind of work you think you'd like to do (not landscaping or power washing). Then sign up for night classes at the local JC in construction management, trade classes, and business classes.
Work your ass off for the next few years (12 hour days,5-6 days a week), try your very best, and then you'll probably be in a pretty good position to make moves.
You got this. Education and knowledge are the keys.
Are you keeping the pipe nipple that comes out of the wall? Buy strap wrenches and DO NOT disturb the tightness of the nipple to the elbow inside the wall. Meaning keep it from rotating.
https://www.amazon.com/Hanes-X-Temp-Comfort-Socks-White/dp/B013C6J5QI/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?dchild=1&keywords=hanes+socks+cool+xtemp&qid=1624331682&sprefix=hanes+socks+cool&sr=8-7 I love these guys on really hot summer days. They never feel soaked no matter how much I sweat.
yo holy shit, finally someone who operates on the same wavelength as me!
I put 2 of those in my camel pack and fill it with water, it slips right under my hi-viz, and has kept me going for about a year and a half now of summers.
10/10 would recommend these things, they make the water taste just a tad funny, but you do get used to it pretty quickly.
I got mine off amazon USA with next day shipping... 100 pack for $0.40 per pack.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OG8G9UM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Your link didn’t work so here’s one that does:
Sounds like you need some good inserts. I buy my red wings at a dealer, and they offer all kinds of help for whatever foot issue you’re having.
I also suffer from plantar and strangely enough this helped me better than anything else.
Ankle Support Brace, Breathable Neoprene Sleeve, Adjustable Wrap! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LXAGV0H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_D6.TFbR98JQVG
I just wear the wrap piece until it doesn’t hurt and won’t flare up for a few months.
I work in Hawaii and the sun and the humidity is super brutal. The best stuff on the market in my opinion are the "Chill-its", they include bandana's, neck towels and neck shades. Other than that bring a ton of sun block and water.
Here is an amazon link for the products.
https://www.amazon.ca/Ergodyne-6602-Chill-Its-Cooling-Towel/dp/B001B5I57I
Hey man I’m on the same boat I just bought an amazon basics backpack great quality and durable and cheap price $30 Also lots of space to put anything in it and it holds the weight well. I’m thrilled with mine so far
AmazonBasics Backpack for Laptops up to 17-inches https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EEBS9O0?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Oh shit realized u wanted something for tools my bad this is a great all around school backpack though
I got this klein hard hat but with the headlamp for $50 but I stopped using it because it was ungodly heavy. Very very protective and solid but just incredibly heavy. This is one for $35, no headlamp. Don’t buy just the suspension because it doesn’t come with all the padding.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Klein-Tools-Vented-Full-Brim-Style-Hard-Hat-60401/310650882
This one is the shell. You can get whatever color and vented or not. $25
Total cost about $60. Don’t worry and just throw the klein shell in a box and the old pyramex suspension in there. It’s going to be the best hard you ever had.
I carry a straight tanto. It’s a little harder to sharpen but the tip is a little more stout and I find it doesn’t break off on me so easy. But breaking the tips off knives from stabbing framing to find rot prolly isn’t something you’re likely to do as an HVAC tech.
This knife is my favorite tool in my belt for a ton of stuff but it’s really excellent for cutting insulation since you can extend it all the way, but with the additional bonus of replaceable blades. They make bigger ones too, and ones where the blade locks with a little screw, but I find this one to be perfect. Plus the hook end is great for opening boxes and shit too, so you aren’t mucking up your razor with tape and cardboard.
If you're interested in getting one, I'd recommend the Fast-Trac III ratchet-style suspension over the Staz-On Suspension. The Fast-Trac has a ratcheting knob that has easy and solid adjustability and it's only $10 or so more, but totally worth the extra few bucks.
Hardhats are only good for 5 years from their printed manufacture date, so I buy a new one about every 4-5 years and I'm on my 3rd. I've got a lot of old plastic ones around from years ago too, but the Skullgards are my favorite. The come in one size in the full brim. If you're a sheet metal worker, or an iron worker, a lot of those guys like the regular ball cap style hardhat, and those come in two sizes, big and bigger.
A lot of guys are now going with the carbon fiber hardhats because they're lighter, but they have heavier suspensions, so they weigh about the same overall. They are also more sensitive to abrasion and aren't nearly as tough as the fiberglass hardhats in the long run. They also run another $30-50 over the Skullgards.
when I was training/ran the marathon I used Body Glide (I like the Her version better bc it feels more moisturizing than the original) and it works sooo great! In the summer I get really bad eczema flare ups and this always does the trick. Slick it in the crease on your elbows, behind your knees, around your neck, your thighs... the best thing ever and use it for all sorts of chafing.
MSA Skullguard. Fiberglass hard hat which is heat resistant and a hell of a lot tougher and more durable than the regular white plastic hard hats. Iron Workers wear them as do many other trades.
I like them because I’m tall and hit a lot of stuff as I visit dozens of jobsites and they’re durable. Not cheap at around $100 but Amazon has them for $83.
Dude I’ve got the same issue. It’s tough finding hi vis in medium.
I’ve seen these on Amazon but frankly, haven’t tried them out yet. L&M Hi Vis T Shirt ANSI Class 3 Reflective Safety Lime Orange Short Long Sleeve HIGH Visibility
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GWVMZ5I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_npjVEbC0SGSED
I bought an aftermarket adewalt battery on amazon for my 18V and it works pretty well so far. Probably ran through three or four times. it’s used for residential use though, not plugging screws all days.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DWQGV88/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
something like this: https://www.amazon.nl/Furniture-Hardwood-Repairing-Scratches-Countertops/dp/B09WKCTDCK/ref=asc_df_B09WKCTDCK/?tag=nlshogostdsp-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=624887789642&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9544168048398940068&hvpone=&hvptw... you blend the colours into the one you need, its finicky and doesnt always work and will get you frustrated.
Have you not considered just using boot covers? The only time they are a hassle is when it gets really slushy, but even then as long as you haven't torn any holes in them they'll just be a bit wet on the inside.
I use these ones. I have a few different colours.
Pictures in this book do a good job of explaining what you can drill or notch amd where:
Black & Decker Codes for Homeowners https://www.amazon.com/Black-Decker-Codes-Homeowners-4th/dp/0760362513
I'm not a structural engineer.
Second the recommendation for Pro-Gaff, also currently sold by Amazon at a good price.
https://www.amazon.com/Pro-Gaffer-Gaffers-Tape-Black/dp/B000QC0XZO/
It has worked very well for me.
By way of comparison in a pinch I tried Shurtape since it's a "premium" brand and the adhesion was very poor in comparison especially in cool/damp conditions.
That is incredibly fucked up haha.
There's this contracting plastic for single pane windows in winter. Might work. Basically sticks over the window trim and seal it. Then you blow dry the plastic and it contracts making a second or third window pane. It's easily removable but yeah you wouldnt be able to use the window.
You can find this stuff at any hardware store.
These, while the concrete is wet.
Far superior to a hammer drill and inserts after it's dried.
Bama sokkets. Quilted, moisture wicking over sock. You, well, wear it over your sock. Get 2 pairs and switch mid day if it's real cold, removes all moisture from your foot, sock and boot. Dries in a snap.
Made for wearing in rubber (non breathing) boots but I find them useful in all winter work boots.
I was introduced to them when I worked on crabbers, been wearing them for years now.
We use this product. It’s rated for commercial use and comes out like actual foam. Works very well. Won’t destroy your clothes.
https://www.amazon.com/Abesco-FP200-Fire-Rated-Expanding/dp/B01DQYAIJ4
A 12” electric partner saw with a metal blade. Cut through the jamb and the door at the hinges Like this https://www.amazon.com/Evolution-R230DCT-Concrete-Circular-Grinder/dp/B08NXLHCSG/ref=asc_df_B08NXLHCSG/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=507656639722&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1599096403965208544&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt...
Bama socks. Especially while wearing rubber boots. Quilted oversock, wear it over your normal socks. keeps your feet warm and dry, and keeps the boot dry too. Get 2 pairs and switch into the dry one at lunch. Absolute life changer.
luekotape is what you need. It is far superior to moleskin or athletic tape. I have hiked hundreds of miles with heavy pack as a back country guide and this is the only stuff that will stay attached to where ever you put it. Most pharmacies or a physiotherapist office will have it as well as stocked online.
https://www.amazon.com/BSN-Medical-BEI076168-Leukotape-Sports/dp/B07KB5KSB2
You can get some top end side bags for photography and other armored backpacks like this.https://www.amazon.ca/TARION-Compartment-Waterproof-Raincover-Mirrorless/dp/B07S8RJ8R9/ref=asc_df_B07S8RJ8R9/?tag=googlemobshop-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=341773940326&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12566970652222013446&hvpone=&hvp...
I was cutting steel with an angle grinder and had on glasses just like the ones you are wearing and somehow a tiny shaving bounced up around the glasses and directly into the center of my eye. Had to go to an eye doctor to have them extract it and it took my eye a month to heal up and my vision to return to normal.
Fun fact: they put a contact lens on my eye to act as a band-aid.
Now whenever I'm cutting I wear total coverage goggles like these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01A12J3GI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Something like this. https://www.amazon.com/EZARC-Diamond-Cutting-Wheel-Metal/dp/B08C7F9CVS/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=diamond+metal+cutting+wheel&qid=1669105842&sr=8-3 Make sure it's rated for steel and not the ones for tile and concrete.
I'm amazed at the amount of people who think being able to breathe and having full use of your lungs at 45 is for pussies.
It's pretty heavy and excessive for this job though, but other wise a nice mask for e.g. oil based paints and such
Why hasn't anyone recommended the black cowboy hardhat?
Bama sokkets. Not "Bomba socks". Quilted oversock that wicks and holds moisture from foot and boot. Serious life changer. Takes moisture out of the equation when you take them off or switch them, leaving boot and sock legitimately dry. These babies paired with the muck or boggs Arctic boot is the best iv found. Construction in Alaska.
Iv posted lime 4 times on this thread about them because I am that serious about showing others the light, and no one seems to know about them. They are the only way.
https://www.amazon.com/Bama-Sokkets-Thermal-Insulated-45/dp/B004GT9YDU
This spray seems to completely kill the funk:
10-Seconds Deodorant & Disinfectant by 10-Seconds
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LMMW94Y/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Just saw the topcon GR series , yah it’s definitely the charger for the top on battery tray . You would plug it into this
Which plugs into this
Or you can leave the battery’s in the unit, and plug the 7 pin into the red hole to charge battery’s if not charge dock is present
Just starting out its super tempting to work for friends and family I know I did it. Now I dont, add to that dont work for close neighbors.
When doing work for the above consider a "cost plus" contract. Do it time and material plus profit.
The customer you describe you probably need to steer clear of.
Get this book, I think you will find it helpful. It looks like its a religious book but I think its much more about running a small construction business. In fact now that Im talking about it, im going to go back and re read it
https://www.amazon.com/Highest-Calling-Book-Blank-Journal/dp/0977645754
Electrician here,
I wear a a standard pair of anti cut gloves, durable enough to constantly handle screws and such. Not super warm but takes the edge off.
Then a larger pair of wool mitten gloves over top
https://www.amazon.com/Winter-Knitted-Fingerless-Convertible-Mittens/dp/B07VR97QK9
Whenever im not handling small things the mitten flap goes over my fingers. the flap runs the risk of getting caught on rotating machines, I sew on extra velcro to make sure it stays in place when Im in finger mode. Worked well in northern alberta, lots of people tend to copy it after I lend them a spair set.
I may switch to a non knit this winter, one good snag and the wool can unravel.
The cheap 3M safety shades will stop a nail from a point-blank framing nailer, and they cost about $5 a pair. Those pit vipers cost $100 and will stop exactly nothing from blinding you. So not only do you look goofy, but you spend your money stupidly, too; seeing these on a job site tells me that you don’t make good life choices, and I don’t want to work anywhere near you when power tools are being used. https://www.amazon.com/3M-Protective-Eyewear-11330-00000-20-Anti-Fog/dp/B007JZD9FC/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=3m+tinted+safety+glasses&qid=1667763491&sr=8-3
Honestly, I've never really understood the hate towards inspectors - especially in new construction when codes are clear and building things correctly the first time couldn't be easier.
Code Check manuals are available to every single person out there. It takes like five minutes to look something up to ensure you're moving in the right direction.
The only excuses a contractor or sub has for doing it wrong the first time are lack of education or laziness, and the first one is honestly pretty easy to fix.
I use these suspenders with the cheapo nylon belt and have had the same crappy, leather HF nail pouch for like six or seven years. And then I have the padded Husky hammer holder and the Dewalt drill holster. Works fine and has been more comfortable than anything else I've used. I've wasted a lot of money on more expensive belts and padded belts. Probably under $100 for my whole thing.
I don't bother with studs when mounting a TV. I prefer these kinds of mounts.
You get the strength from many spread-out nails at a downward angle.
With plaster and lath, you might want to pre-drill the holes before driving the nails in.
I bought two of these. One for the wife one for me. I like it. Just don't forget to buy battery packs. Upgraded Heated Vest for Men and Women, Smart Electric Heating Vest Rechargeable, Warming heated Jacket, Battery Not Included https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B98VG538/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_AVXHT6X78VM5JR603J8Y?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I bought two of these. One for the wife one for me. I like it. Just don't forget to buy battery packs. Upgraded Heated Vest for Men and Women, Smart Electric Heating Vest Rechargeable, Warming heated Jacket, Battery Not Included https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B98VG538/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_AVXHT6X78VM5JR603J8Y?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Read the five minute foreman great book
https://www.amazon.ca/Five-Minute-Foreman-Mark-Breslin/dp/0974166294
It’s very common - it’s not greener on the other side, might be a bit more green lol but not perfect!
Ariat's thick leather is a blessing and a curse, they will hold up better but if your doing work pointing down the roof it's pretty uncomfortable, heavy, the shoe doesn't really snug around your foot until it hits some pressure points so I tended to slide in them plus the tread is a bit aggressive for the roof and the material is more for durability and not grip. I enjoyed these
Exclusively for the roof, they sucked for ground work, and would get another thicker insole that I cut square voids in for inserting foot warmers on colder days and switch em out or just leave the old bag of warmer in
I call this A-hole bit
I've had 2 different Swiss Gear laptop backpacks that I've used heavily on construction sites (and traveling/flying/etc), that have both worked and held up extremely well.
Currently I have this backpack, and really like it. I travel a lot and take it to sites all over the country, and it barely shows any sign of wear after 4 years of heavy use.
I bought one like that and it was hotter than hell, (live in Texas), but the high viz insulated vest worked out pretty well. That or get the Carhartt high viz hoodie it is great for cold days and it easy to work in: https://www.amazon.com/Carhartt-Visibility-Thermal-Sweatshirt-Orange/dp/B00B69830I/
If he has any cordless DeWalt tools this is something every carpenter must have (if he doesn't have it already) https://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DCS356B-Variable-Oscillating-Multi-Tool/dp/B07VBB55X5/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=36BFKRYTAFIIH&keywords=dewalt+multi+tool+20v+brushless&qid=1665777870&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIyLjA4IiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%...
use shears. I gave up the Hardie blade and got a set of shears that go in my drill. Never looking back.
You can find polarized nemesis. I used to get them at a welding supply
https://www.amazon.com/Jackson-Safety-Polarized-28635-Gunmetal/dp/B009I2XLVG
But you can also find lots of options for polarized safety glasses and then there are a few of the big name sun glass outfits that have certified safety glasses like oakly
Been out of the steamfitter game for awhile, but there's plenty of overlap between them and plumbers:
Seconding Channelocks that another person recommended, assuming your crew doesn't keep a set or two in the gangbox.
I had a Leatherman Charge, but I also like the Leatherman Crunch since rather than needle nose pliers it formed a Vise Grip, which was nice for stubborn pipe hangers.
A flashlight, like this Streamlight Stylus. I like that it is super light, has a gooseneck, and a magnetic attachment point so I can stick it to studs or black iron to make a worklight.
A snake camera, like this cheap Chinese one, was the underrated tool for us. Plugs into an Android phone, lights on the head are reasonably bright, and it helped check those tight spaces we couldn't get an eye on. It's so cheap if it breaks, you can just snag another.
You can use it for string, or anything similarly shaped, but the ones I've seen are labeled for electrical tape ... e.g. https://www.amazon.com/KUNN-Electrical-Dual-Use-Enhanced-Keyring/dp/B09YHMB62H
Koel’s Carpentry was always the trade standard until the ubc went into the book and power point business.
It does a decent job of taking a structure from the excavation to finish.
If you buy the textbook, buy the workbook also, it really helps for reviewing the chapter content.
Something like this can be put onto the door stop/rebate on the frame to soften the slam, just try to get a thin one so that the door can still latch/close fully
https://www.amazon.com/Garage-Operator-Reinforcement-Bracket-National/dp/B002VCPNYI
Typically this would work along underneath a single top support strut, to keep the top panel from bowing or bending. This is plenty of support for all the tugging and strain the operator is putting on the top panel.
Make sure your top panel is 21" to match size of operator support bracket
These are overboots you slip them over warm weather boots/shoes and it turns them into cold weather/wet weather footwear. Has its pros and cons https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000XTFQS4/ref=ox\_sc\_saved\_image\_1?smid=A22M38KY7WROC3&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/Reinforced-Concrete-Mechanics-Design-7th/dp/013348596X
​
Try to find something better.
So I've done more research on overboots, and tbh I'm starting to think maybe designing overboots to fit over a specific shoe isn't needed. Like this overboot for example: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000XTFQS4/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=A22M38KY7WROC3&th=1
Sure, it's made to fit a variety of boots, but from reviews on amazon, I don't see people complaining about them being uncomfortable or not fitting tight enough. Idk, what do you think?