If you are reading this blog, you probably know that we had a major house fire last October, and I am actively involved with the rebuilding process. I have learned so many things since the fire happened, and had many mis-truths sorted out in the process. Here are a few things I have learned while watching the ‘pros’.
#1: Wear PPE! Soot is nasty stuff. Seriously. The reason professionals cover their entire bodies and wear masks is because chemical changes in your beloved objects all release toxins. You absolutely must protect yourself. This also applies to any industry where you see professionals wearing any Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Whether in welding, or in the nail salon – if you see the pros wearing something to protect themselves, consider protecting yourself if participating in the same activity!
#2: Ask questions! I watched the rough framing crew for an entire day, creating minimal distraction and being as much of a fly on the wall as possible. The guys worked well together, but they also questioned things they didn’t understand. I heard things from double checking measurement numbers before a cut, as well as getting additional direction about how they were moving a wall. Like: “You want this pushed up, right? To the Left? Oh – East! Got it.” Communication was 100% key
#3: Some things should be farmed out to professionals… Even if you know how to do it! I have finish stuff locked down. I can handle paint, tile, flooring… but no way will I deal with insulation or dry wall installation. Why? PPE. As stated in #1, nasty things need special tools and protection. I was in the vicinity of the fiberglass installation and simply being on the property made me itchy and made my lungs hurt. I wasn’t even in the house! The installers of this stuff know how to protect themselves, or they are the ones that will have to deal with the repercussions.
#4: You can’t do everything yourself. Sure, there are things any one person can do. But you cannot stand a wall up by yourself. Maybe you can’t create a giant proposal alone. Whatever your life throws at you – remember – life is best lived within a team of people. If you have a crew – use them. If you don’t, maybe you should consider who is in your crew, or who you would like to compliment your work style and invite them in. Maybe they are looking for a ‘crew’ themselves!
Hopefully this gave you a little insight. I am learning so much – so fast that I am having a hard time keeping up with the sharing of the knowledge here. But I hope that you all stay tuned here for more stuff as I figure it out!
<3 Doni
