Masonry Magazine January 2009 Page. 34
TOOLS
Hardscaping contractors can use the carbide chisels for trimming and splitting, LaMorte says. Knocking down high spots with a carbide hand point and a striking hammer makes the stones fit more snuggly.
Leveling tools for faster base installs
NEW LEVELS AND SCREEDS from Kraft Tool enable hardscaping contractors to install bases for pavers faster and easier. The company has a new one-inch X four-inch screed set, which includes five screeds ranging in length from 1.5 to six feet.
"They're in different lengths to smooth out a sand base," Cook says. "Basically, the sizes adapt to different obstacles on the job, like steps or an air conditioner that you have to work around."
The screeds work well for leveling bases in short runs and irregularly shaped paths and walkways, he says. Kraft Tool is also offering heavy-duty levels up to 96 inches long.
Kraft Tool Aluminum Extruded Level
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Kraft Tool - Buckeye Straightedge
"These are aluminum extruded levels, so they're strong and stay straight," Cook says. "These are good levels to use when installing the base on those landscaping jobs."
New in 2008 was the Buckeye Straightedge, a high-grade aluminum straightedge with a level vial built into the wooden handle. The adjustable level allows hardscaping contractors to easily create a grade when laying a base.
"The level is adjustable to change the angle of the base so water can drain off," Cook says. "When you come off steps or have long runs, you want the water to drain."
Removing and straightening pavers
REMOVING OR STRAIGHTENING damaged or dislodged hardscaping materials can be difficult, especially if the pavers have been set for a long time. Bon Tool Co. in Gibsonia, Pa., offers a couple of tools to make the job easier. Tempered steel blades on the tools fit around the hardscaping materials to move it.
"These are great tools for repair work," says John Wight, VP of sales and marketing for the company. "They fit around the paver, so you don't have to try to get it out with a screwdriver. The tools also let you stand up to work instead of working on your hands and knees."
Paver Extracting Tongs let hardscaping contractors remove a single paver without disturbing surrounding pavers. Adjustable jaws open up to 11 inches to grab most paver sizes, even those with irregular shapes.
The Extracting & Alignment Bar allows hardscaping contractors to remove or reset pavers or stone. The offset handles help wedge the tool in place between pavers.
"It's really easy to grip the paver to remove it or reposition it," Wight says.
Extracting and Alignment Bar
Paver Extracting Tongs
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