What’s your go-to small or handheld tool on a construction project that helps you get the job done?
Jerrod Combs
Landscape Project Manager, Sun Valley Landscaping
Omaha, Neb.
“My favorite tool that I use is, hands down, the zip level. The simplicity of it and the ease of use make elevations, layouts and placements faster and easier. The zip level is quickly replacing a transit (level) for my team. I grew up in the industry and have spent the last 18 years using transits and have come to be a believer in the zip level. I’ve been elevating some of my crew leaders quicker with it, and now they are starting to do their own shots.”
Jared Batchelder
Project Manager, North Point Outdoors
Derry, N.H.
“For the last few seasons, we have been blessed with landing multiple large commercial hardscape projects, many with elevated courtyards. On each of these projects, you will find an iQMS362 dustless masonry saw. The iQ saws help us stay compliant with the silica safety regulations and save man-hours on cleanup since we aren’t generating concrete slurry. The iQ’s taller 16-inch blade is also great for wall block and cap cuts, minimizing the number of tools we need to drag up onto a roof.”
Travis Perdue
Director of Landscape Operations, Atlas Outdoor
Flint, Mich.
“From a design and build perspective, the U-Level by Smart Level has been invaluable. It significantly reduces the time spent creating terrain models by allowing quick elevation checks and seamless 3D-mapping integration. The ability to verify elevations on-site without interrupting crews or resetting transit equipment streamlines the workflow. While we’re also testing Moasure, the U-Level currently plays a critical role from initial design through project completion.”
Jeremy Ross
Vice President of Construction, K&D Landscaping
Watsonville, Calif.
“This answer may be a little different than what you’d hear from our crew members, but I am going to say our laser site levels. We use DeWalt outdoor rotary site levels primarily. On a large-square-foot project, it is imperative that all the areas of scope line up with each other. The site level is a small and effective tool to make everything line up seamlessly.”
