Things learned from Tradies

[BigWave]

I've learned many good things from tradies over the past month whilst getting my roof and some decking replaced.
Technology and material evolution marches on.
Re decking, you should check out the:
Macsim Drill/Countersink. When the skirt stops rotating (it has a rubber O-ring which grips to the deck), the countersink is at its correct depth for 10g decking screws (other sizes sold). It comes with two extra drill bits and a hex tool for replacement. Has saved me an incredible amount of time and effort and gives great looking results. Have done hundreds of holes on the 1 drill bit. There are other brands available, but this one has served very well.

Then, on bogging/puttying old timber, I've discovered Earl's Wood Hardener.
Two of the more professional painters that I've had quotes from use this extensively BOFORE bogging rotten timber sections. Without using this the bogging or putty just falls out with more rotting. It restores the wood's fibres. Check out the ads. A bit pricey, but will add a decade of life to external old timber.

I have no professional or financial association with these products.

 

[Jaros]

I replaced the decking front and back a few years ago using decking nails and hammer. Really made the piano teacher next door happy.

 

[BigWave]

I find the decking nails pop out (even the twist ones). Once a year i hit many with a hammer. Screws are the way to go. Then if you ever need to replace some decking, just unscrew?

 

[aussiefarmer]

Any job can be stretched to fit the time quoted.

 

[Jaros]

I agree they do pop up=same remedy-but will slowly replace them as they pop up with screws.

 

[DrDuck]

That Earle's wood hardener is great stuff. I put some on some dodgy window sills and it worked very well. My young painter had not seen it before, and he was impressed by the results.

 

[Mackka]

Earls Wood hardener, made by Timbermate in Australia. Owners name is Errol, however, when he went to the USA they couldnt pronounce Errol and subsequently it became Earls, true story.
Mackka

 

[Rockhunter62]

"When the skirt stops rotating (it has a rubber O-ring which grips to the deck), the countersink is at its correct depth for 10g decking screws (other sizes sold). It comes with two extra drill bits and a hex tool for replacement"

I hate it when my skirt stops rotating. Either the song stopped or I have fallen over drunk again. :lol: :lol: :lol:

Cheers

Doug