Power Tool Safety

These days, power tools can be found in almost every home! They speed up long jobs and make the process easier. That being said, they can be dangerous if not used properly! Follow these simple safety tips and your project will be a success!

• Wear safety glasses. Safety glasses protect your eyes from debris. Prescription glasses are designed to be impact resistant, but dust and debris can easily get around the frame and into your eyes.

• Always read the manufacturer's instructions before using any power tools and equipment. Pay attention all safety precautions.

• Use the right tool for the right job. For instance, a single construction project may require the use of several types of saw blades, different sized drill bits, and nails ranging from heavy duty galvanized to finishing.You want to make sure you choose the right tool before you get started!

• Protect your ears. Many power tools create a lot of noise that can be damaging to the ears. Chances are if you need to shout over the noise, your ears are at risk.

• Dress appropriately for the project. Avoid loose clothing and, for protection, wear clothes that cover the entire body. Wear heavy gloves to protect your hands and a mask to reduce inhalation of dust and particles. Also make sure long hair doesn't interfere with the work.

• Use both hands when using power tools. If you need to hold something in place, use a clamp.

We at Benchmark Contracting know that some projects are small enough to do on your own, but we want to remind you to stay safe!

Source: realestate.com

Tile Types - Quarry Tile

• Quarry tile is a commonly used type of tile that is made from natural clay. It is usually 13-19 mm thick and is known for its characteristics of durability. For this reason Quarry tile is often used for commercial flooring.
  
• Traditionally, Quarry tile is unglazed and is red or grey in color, though it can sometimes be found in shades of brown, black or white.
• Quarry tile is available in freeze-resistant grades which make them suitable for outdoor settings, especially in the winter.
• Quarry tile is also slip resistant and are therefore commonly used in kitchen areas or places that tend to be wet or slippery.
  
• This type of tile is very easy to make and is very affordable in today's market.
• The slip resistant characteristic of the tiles make them good for areas that are prone of being wet and slippery.
• The main disadvantage of Quarry tile is that any colored liquid that spills on the tile can stain it indefinitely. This can be prevented by sealing the tile, but this can be a very difficult process which requires great attention to detail.

For more information on this and other types of tile, contact us at Benchmark Contracting!


Source: Quarry Tile

Tile Types - Porcelain

Porcelain tile is a tile is typically made by the dust pressed method from porcelain clays which result in a tile that is dense, impervious, fine grained and smooth, with a sharply formed face.

Porcelain tiles:

• have a much lower water absorption rate (less than 0.5%) than non-porcelain tiles making them frost resistant or frost-proof.
  
• that are glazed are much harder and more wear and damage resistant than non-porcelain ceramic tiles, making them suitable for any application from the lightest to heaviest traffic in both residential and commercial environments.
  
• carry the color and pattern through the entire thickness of the tile making them virtually impervious to wear and tear.
• are available in matte, unglazed or a high polished finish.

Call Benchmark Contracting today for your tile installation!

Beautiful Slate Patio!

No yard is complete without a tool shed!

Multi-colored tiles gives the yard a dynamic look!

Roomy enough for the whole to family to enjoy!

There are sure to be many fun-filled days spent lounging in this gorgeous yard!

Another fantastic build from Benchmark!