Chapter 5 Construction Tools and Equipment

Objectives After reading the chapter and reviewing the materials presented the students will be able to: Differentiate between tools owned by individual trades people and those owned by construction companies. Name three alternatives for obtaining tools and equipment. Identify different types of trucks and trailers seen on construction sites.

Tools It is a common practice for trades people to purchase and maintain their own set of tools. They are responsible for having these tools at the job site each day. Contractors are responsible for furnishing more expensive and larger tools, such as radial arm saws, compressors, and portable lights. Tools owned by individuals are typically stored in their personal vehicles and taken home each day.

Obtaining Tools and Equipment Tools and equipment are major expenses for construction companies. The best tool or piece of equipment for a job is one that will do the job for the lowest cost. Buy: Buying tools and equipment is often the most economical choice for frequently used and inexpensive items. It is often less expensive to rent a replacement device while the broken one is being repaired than to purchase a new one. Rent: Expensive and infrequently used tools and equipment are most likely to be rented. Tools and equipment can also be rented to see how well a device works before making a purchase. Subcontract: In residential construction many types of specialty subcontractors are used.

Transportation Trucks and trailers are the most common hauling equipment used in construction. Tractor trailers bring large earth moving equipment to the site. Dump trucks move bulk items such as soil or gravel. Specifically designed trucks transport cranes, concrete pumps, and concrete. Flatbed trailers can be used to move equipment and structural components (fig 5-5, page 97). Portable restroom facilities are brought to, cleaned, and removed from the job sites by the company that owns the portable sanitation facilities.

Shop and Storage Areas A shop is mainly used to do maintenance and repair work on tools and equipment. The shop may also serve as a place to gather tools, materials, and supplies from storage that needs to be taken to the job site. A secure storage facility deters tool theft, which is a common problem with construction companies and workers. Supplies are materials used in the work process that do not become part of the finished product.

Summary It is a common practice for trades people to purchase and maintain their own set of tools. Contractors are responsible for furnishing more expensive and larger tools, such as radial arm saws, compressors, and portable lights. Buy: Buying tools and equipment is often the most economical choice for frequently used and inexpensive items. Rent: Expensive and infrequently used tools and equipment are most likely to be rented. Tractor trailers bring large earth moving equipment to the site. Dump trucks move bulk items such as soil or gravel. Flatbed trailers can be used to move equipment and structural components. A shop is mainly used to do maintenance and repair work on tools and equipment. A secure storage facility deters tool theft, which is a common problem with construction companies and workers.

Home Work 1. What influences a contractor to buy or rent equipment? 2. Why is it important to have a secure storage facility?