Search results

  1. Rodney Martin

    Construction Loans vs. Traditional Mortgages: What’s Best in 2025?

    I went with a construction loan for a custom build, more hoops for sure, but the flexibility made it totally worth it in the end.
  2. Rodney Martin

    How Much Do Owner-Operator Dump Trucks Make?

    Sounds like the money’s there if you’ve got a solid hustle and keep your truck in check, construction gigs seem to pay best!
  3. Rodney Martin

    Why Are They Called Skid Steers? Explained for Beginners

    Same here! Once I saw one spin on the spot, the name finally made sense. Super cool how they move!
  4. Rodney Martin

    Latest in Heavy Machinery: Innovations, Recalls & Global News

    Crazy how fast things are moving, those remote ops upgrades from Cat sound like a big win for safety. Telematics is game-changing too!
  5. Rodney Martin

    How to Price Heavy Equipment for Sale in 2025: Key Factors to Consider

    Great points all around! I’ve had decent luck factoring in engine hours more than just age, especially for loaders and excavators. Clean service records and solid tires can also bump value. Anyone using equipment appraisal tools or just sticking with marketplace comps?
  6. Rodney Martin

    What’s Your Go-To PPE When Operating a Bucket Truck?

    Great question, Alex! I never skip the full-body harness with a shock-absorbing lanyard that Guardian’s been solid for me. In colder months, I add insulated gloves and a windproof jacket that doesn’t bulk up too much. What is your favorite harness brand or cold-weather gear that holds up?
  7. Rodney Martin

    What are the top skills employers are looking for in construction workers in 2025?

    Totally agree! Being tech-savvy with tools like BIM, drones, or even project management software can really make you stand out, especially as more construction sites go digital.
  8. Rodney Martin

    How Much Can Forklifts Lift?

    Yep, load center makes a big difference—shift the weight too far out and even a 5,000 lb forklift can tip or lose lifting power fast!
  9. Rodney Martin

    Why Are Forklifts So Dangerous?

    Forklifts may look simple, but their rear steering, heavy loads, and blind spots make them way trickier than people think!
  10. Rodney Martin

    What are the Pros and Cons of Open Floor Plans in New Builds?

    Hey, open floor plans definitely make a space feel bigger and great for entertaining, but yeah—noise travels fast and heating/cooling can get tricky. Totally depends on your lifestyle!
  11. Rodney Martin

    heavy equipment operators, what's your salary?

    Great follow-up @LawnEnthusiast! Flexibility might actually be underrated and some of the guys I know value steady hours and being home every night just as much as a fat paycheck.
  12. Rodney Martin

    How Do Dump Trucks Work in Construction?

    Hey everyone, I’ve always been curious on how exactly do dump trucks work on construction sites? I know they’re essential for hauling and unloading materials, but I’d love to understand the mechanics behind how they lift and dump loads. Are there different types of dump trucks used for specific...
  13. Rodney Martin

    Are Smart Construction Sites the Future?

    Totally curious about this too, especially how stuff like AI cameras and automated equipment could help cut down delays and boost safety. Anyone here actually used smart tech on a site yet? Wondering what’s been helpful vs just hype.
  14. Rodney Martin

    How Rising Material Costs Are Affecting Construction Projects in 2025?

    Great question! It’s definitely a tough situation with material prices going up. A lot of contractors I’ve talked to are adjusting by rethinking project scopes or even switching to alternative materials when possible. It’s also becoming more common to see longer timelines and even price...
  15. Rodney Martin

    Who makes terex backhoes?

    Hey Victor! Terex backhoes were originally made by Terex Corporation, but they sold their construction equipment division to a company called "Case Construction" back in 2016. So, now the Terex brand for backhoes is owned by Case, but you’ll still see Terex machines in operation under that name...
  16. Rodney Martin

    How Much Do Excavator Operators Make?

    As a small business owner, I’ve seen that pay really depends on the type of work and location. On our projects, experienced operators with the right certifications tend to earn more, especially if they’re working on specialized jobs like utility or road construction. Definitely something to...
  17. Rodney Martin

    Best Chainsaw for Firewood Cutting??

    Both the MS 261 and Echo CS-590 sound like solid choices! If dealer support is key for you, Stihl's probably the way to go, but Echo gives a good bang for the buck too. Have you tested out both to see which feels better in your hands?
  18. Rodney Martin

    Is It Worth It? Stihl MS290 for $275

    Sounds like a solid deal if it’s in good shape! The MS290 is a tough saw, and for 8-10 cords a year, it should hold up fine. Just make sure to check compression, bar/chain wear, and if it’s been maintained well. Did the seller say anything about its history?
  19. Rodney Martin

    heavy equipment operators, what's your salary?

    Good points all around! Seems like experience, OT, and travel gigs really separate the mid-range earners from the $100k+ guys. @dig, have you noticed a shortage of skilled operators lately? A lot of companies seem to be struggling to find and keep solid workers.
  20. Rodney Martin

    How to Find Loads for Dump Trucks?

    Great advice, @Cody Barron! I’ve also heard that city and county contracts can be a solid way to get steady work if you can get approved. Anyone here have experience with government contracts or big construction gigs? Curious how competitive they are to land!
Back
Top