Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Rain and more rain

We have finally shifted back to our “normal” winter weather.  It seems that we are getting flooded this year, but we are really getting the same amount of rain as when we first opened the shop here in Sacramento in the year 2001.  We have had serious rain storms here every winter until the “draught”.  So after 5 years of no winter, we are actually back on track.  Construction will once again have to be scheduled according to weather conditions as in our pre draught years.

Remember to shelter your rigs during this weather,  Neither gas nor electric rigs should be wet.  Water will get into your fuel tanks and gas cans.  Water will get into the electric motors and electronic control boxes.  This can be catastrophic.  Control boards for both gas and electric run from $250 to $800 for the parts alone.  Even if you have the rig chained with a logging chain in the back of your truck, cover it up with a tarp!

Also, remember that even if the paint seems dry to the touch, in this weather, it takes many more hours for it to cure hard enough to shed water without damage.  Interior painting will take many hours to cure if the area isn’t heated.  Don’t take unnecessary chances.  Every valid contract has weather related delays built into it.  Make sure that every contract you sign has this in it.  And don’t be afraid to enforce said clauses.  If the owner/builder insists on you continuing, make them sign an acceptance of your objection and for them to accept the responsibility of said work.  The law allows for this and you should insist on it.

Be extra careful on ladders and scaffolding (as well as on roofs) as this rain will cause everything to be slick and many ladders and scaffolding to sink unevenly into the ground.