Masonry Restoration Boosts Property Value

Masonry structures like brick walls and foundations are critical to the structural integrity of a building. But over time, they can become damaged and deteriorate.

Masonry

When this happens, it’s important to hire a contractor who specializes in Masonry Restoration and repair. A specialized contractor will have extensive knowledge of construction techniques that have been used through the years.

A well-maintained masonry structure can boost your property value. It attracts prospective buyers and tenants, and it signals to them that you have a strong commitment to your property’s maintenance. Studies have shown that properties with attractive curb appeal are more likely to sell or rent at higher prices than those with unattractive exteriors.

Fortunately, masonry is a cost-effective way to enhance the curb appeal of your residential or commercial property. With a range of design possibilities and material options, masonry upgrades can elevate the aesthetic of your landscape, whether you’re looking to create a welcoming pathway or add character to your facade.

Masonry restoration also offers functional benefits that improve the durability and longevity of your masonry features. For example, repairing brick walls with tuckpointing or repointing restores the integrity of the structure by filling in cracks and weak mortar joints. These repairs also prevent water from seeping through the brick and causing further damage, such as mold growth, rotting wood, and weakened paint.

One of the best ways to boost your curb appeal is with a beautifully paved walkway or driveway. Whether made of natural stone pavers or bricks, these surfaces are visually appealing and durable, offering a classic look that never goes out of style. Plus, they can be installed in a variety of patterns and colors to complement the style of your home.

A deteriorating façade can make your property look outdated and run-down, which can deter potential buyers. Investing in a masonry restoration project can ensure that your property’s exterior looks its best, so you can draw in interested buyers and command the highest sale or rental price. If you have any masonry on your property that is displaying signs of damage, such as cracked bricks, crumbling mortar, or stained surfaces, consider having them professionally evaluated and restored by a reputable masonry company like BEI Exterior Maintenance. Our experienced masons can repair damaged masonry quickly and effectively, restoring it to its original beauty. Contact us today to learn more about our masonry restoration services.

Strengthens the Structure

Masonry Restoration is more than repairing or cleaning brick structures, it’s about protecting the structural integrity of a home or business. Weathering, age-related deterioration and pest damage can lead to cracks in mortar joints and loose bricks, which may be hazardous if left untreated. By scheduling regular masonry repair services, you can prevent costly structural compromise and ensure the longevity of your property’s masonry structure.

Masonry restoration is often a more extensive process than traditional repairs, restoring brick surfaces to their original condition and adding new elements that improve functionality or aesthetics. This may include repointing mortar, sealing and waterproofing, installing concrete reinforcements or introducing new anchor points, and fortifying and enhancing the overall strength of the masonry structure. Often, these improvements are necessary to meet building codes and ensure the safety of individuals who use the building or structure.

Sustainable masonry restoration practices prioritize long-term durability and ecological responsibility. This means using low-VOC cleaners, locally sourced materials and energy-efficient construction methods that reduce a structure’s carbon footprint. In addition, a thorough life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) typically uncovers substantial savings over the structure’s lifetime compared to alternative modern materials.

In addition to the environmental benefits of minimizing transportation distances, local material sourcing supports multi-generational masonry industries and sustains traditional craftsmanship skills. It also provides the assurance that the masonry materials used in your project are historically appropriate for your region’s architectural heritage, making them more compatible with historic buildings and monuments.

The best masonry contractors are dedicated to the preservation of historical architecture and know how to treat it with respect. These craftspeople have experience working with a wide variety of structures and can make recommendations about how to best preserve and restore your masonry structure. Choosing a specialized contractor can save you time, money and stress by saving you from unnecessary repairs and maintenance down the road.

A reputable masonry restoration contractor will be able to provide detailed written estimates that detail all work to be completed and the expected timeline for completion. This helps you avoid unexpected costs and surprises, which is especially important when dealing with older or historic structures.

Preserves the Historic Value of the Property

Many historic buildings are culturally significant, and masonry restoration can help preserve their integrity. Masonry restoration focuses on preserving craftsmanship and respecting the past, and it can also improve energy efficiency. A well-maintained masonry building can withstand harsh weather conditions and prevent moisture damage, resulting in a stronger and more durable structure. It can also increase property value by improving the overall appearance and adding a sense of character.

Masonry restoration can include a number of repairs and preservation methods, including repointing, replacing damaged bricks, and adding new mortar. The goal is to preserve the historical integrity of the building and bring it back to its original condition. The repair process is a complex task that requires the skills of an experienced masonry company to ensure that it is done correctly. The process involves carefully inspecting the building for underlying damage, creating a detailed restoration plan, and executing each step with precision.

Historic masonry structures often have unique details that add to their charm and aesthetics, such as ornate brick patterns, carved stone details, or decorative elements. During the repointing process, the old mortar is removed and replaced with new mortar that matches the original in color and texture to maintain the historical appearance. Similarly, replacing damaged bricks can be done with matching new bricks to keep the appearance intact.

Some historic buildings need specialized reinforcement to address issues such as shifting foundations or weak structural components. Techniques like underpinning and masonry ties can strengthen the structure without compromising its historic integrity.

It is important to regularly inspect historic buildings for signs of damage, such as cracks or a change in the color of the masonry. These issues should be addressed promptly to prevent them from worsening. Regular inspections can also help prevent the need for costly repairs in the future and can provide a better picture of the health of the building.

Saves Money

Masonry Restoration involves the repair of bricks, stones like limestone and marble, and other materials used to build and clad buildings. These materials are often prone to damage from weather, pollution and other environmental factors that cause them to break down over time. Regular maintenance is essential to keep these structures looking their best and working as efficiently as possible.

The first benefit of masonry restoration is that it saves money. Deteriorated masonry is a visual distraction that lowers curb appeal and sends a message about the overall care of a building. It can also lead to expensive structural damage, if left unattended. Regular masonry inspections help identify issues before they become worse, and addressing these minor repairs prevents costly replacements in the future.

Aside from saving money on repairs and maintaining a better appearance, masonry restoration can actually increase the value of a property. When a building’s exterior is well-maintained, prospective buyers will be more interested in the property, making it easier to sell in the future. For historic properties, a professional masonry restoration can preserve the historical integrity of the structure while improving its appearance.

Masonry restoration can involve techniques like tuckpointing, repointing, Dutchman repairs and consolidation. Tuckpointing involves repairing mortar joints between bricks, while repointing is the process of completely removing and replacing deteriorated mortar. Dutchman repairs use matching mortar to fill small cracks and holes, while consolidation strengthens and stabilizes weakened masonry. The re-application of protective coatings can also prevent further deterioration and damage.

In addition, a professional masonry restoration can address vulnerabilities that contribute to water infiltration and deterioration. For example, lintels support the weight above windows and doors, and are prone to corrosion from exposure to water. Identifying and repairing these weaknesses will help protect the integrity of a building’s facade as well as its interior and reduce energy costs.

When choosing a contractor for your masonry restoration project, consider their expertise and experience in the type of work you need done. A specialized masonry contractor will know how to repair your masonry quickly and effectively while preserving the overall look of your structure. They can also offer you a variety of options for color and texture matching, which will ensure that your repaired masonry looks natural and matches the existing material.

Excavating Contractors Are Essential to the Success of Your Construction Project

Whether you are building a new home or expanding your backyard with a pool, deck or garden, construction projects require strong foundations. This is where excavation services come in.

Excavating Contractors

When choosing Excavating Contractor consider their years of experience, necessary certifications and client references. Additionally, ensure that they offer a wide range of services and can effectively address your project needs. 

Site preparation is the first step in construction and sets the stage for safety, efficiency, and quality. It includes a wide range of services from clearing the land to excavation and is the foundation for any construction project. Using professional site preparation methods helps minimize risk and ensures that the finished building will be structurally sound and durable for years to come.

A quality site preparation plan takes a number of factors into consideration, including soil testing, erosion control, and drainage. It also considers the presence of underground utilities, such as water pipes and power lines, to avoid hitting them during excavation. This step is particularly crucial when building in urban areas where there are many services and pipes running beneath the surface.

An excavating contractor can use a variety of equipment to prepare the construction site, including bulldozers and graders. They may also clear the area of debris, vegetation, and other obstructions to make room for construction. They also use site grading techniques to create a level surface for the new structure, which is vital for managing drainage and preventing water accumulation on the construction site.

Excavating contractors can also help with the installation of utilities and infrastructure, as well as soil stabilization, which is a key step in making sure that the construction site will be able to support heavy machinery and other construction activities without becoming unstable. Site preparation also includes implementing measures to mitigate environmental impacts, such as selecting low-emission machinery and ensuring that the work is done in accordance with environmental best practices.

Lastly, site preparation can also include relocating existing structures on the property or removing them entirely. This can be a complicated process, and it requires careful planning to avoid any unexpected challenges or issues that might arise during demolition or excavation. This phase can also involve arranging for the removal of hazardous materials, such as asbestos. An excavating contractor should be able to handle all of these tasks safely and with utmost professionalism. They should be able to obtain the proper permits for any demolition work and provide a clearance certificate to verify that the site is free of asbestos.

Earth Moving

Whether you are building a new home, installing a pool, or expanding your driveway, an excavation contractor is essential to your construction project. These professionals have the expertise and machinery to complete a wide range of excavation services, from site preparation to clearing and digging trenches. They also offer grading and earthmoving services to ensure the foundations of buildings and other structures rest on a stable, level base.

The most fundamental service that excavating contractors provide is site clearance, which involves clearing and preparing land for construction projects. This includes removing trees, brush, and debris to make way for new roads, buildings, and utility lines. It also involves excavating existing foundations and basements to prepare them for reconstruction or removal. This is one of the most important steps in a construction project and is vital to ensuring that all subsequent work will be done on a solid and safe basis.

Other excavation-related services that contractors can perform include demolition and debris removal, which is the process of tearing down old structures. Depending on the size and scope of the job, this may require the use of large-scale equipment, including excavators, front-end loaders, and bulldozers. Excavating contractors can also use specialized machines for demolition, such as hydraulic hammers, shears, and crushers, to dismantle old foundations and concrete slabs safely and efficiently.

In addition to performing excavation and demolition services, excavation contractors can also assist with land development and site paving. This involves laying the groundwork for infrastructure, such as roads, buildings, and utilities, by preparing and clearing land for construction, removing and replacing existing soil, and using specialized machinery to install asphalt and pavement.

When choosing a contractor to handle your excavation project, it is critical that you choose a licensed and insured company with a proven track record. You should also inquire about the contractor’s safety commitment and their knowledge of local zoning and excavation-related regulations. It is also helpful to ask for references and online reviews to see what past clients have had to say about the contractor’s professionalism and quality of work.

Final Grading

When building homes, commercial buildings, roads or other infrastructure, it is important that the ground work is done properly. That is where the expertise of an excavating contractor comes in. Excavating contractors provide a variety of services that include site planning, excavation, land development, utility trenching, grading, erosion control and demolition. The services offered by these experts are essential to the success of any construction project.

They begin their work by assessing the site and its features to determine how it can be best utilized for construction purposes. They then excavate holes and trenches based on architectural plans and engineering to carve out spaces for foundations and essential utilities that are needed to bring the project from concept to reality.

Using heavy equipment, such as bulldozers and motor graders, they then prepare the construction site by leveling the ground for laying the foundation. Then they install all necessary utilities, including water, sewage, electricity and gas. This step is crucial to ensuring that the construction process can begin in accordance with its scheduled timeline.

In addition, they also integrate vital infrastructure by digging trenches or conduits to accommodate underground systems and utilities. These components must be carefully laid out to ensure they are safely integrated into the construction site and that they can be easily accessed for future repairs and maintenance.

Finally, final grading fine-tunes the construction site by smoothing the surface with topsoil and sand. This helps to promote plant growth and improve the site’s appearance. It is a crucial step to making sure that the construction project’s final results are as intended and that they will be stable and long-lasting.

While choosing a grading contractor, it is essential to check their credentials and licenses before hiring them. Look for online directories and review websites to gather a list of potential candidates in your area. Then, request references from previous clients to see how they have worked with each grading contractor in the past.

Most importantly, choose a grading contractor that is fully licensed, insured and certified in Erosion and Sediment Control. This will ensure that they follow all the proper measures and precautions to protect the health and safety of their workers as well as the public at large. It will also help to minimize the risk of damage to public and private utilities and other infrastructure, which can be incredibly expensive to repair or replace.

Site Cleanup

An excavation contractor may also help you clean up the site once construction is complete. This includes removing all debris and returning the land to its original condition. This is important to ensure that your property is free of any hazards that could affect the safety of anyone who might visit it in the future. It is also crucial to protect the environment by ensuring that all materials are disposed of properly.

Before the construction of a new building can begin, an excavating contractor is responsible for digging the foundation trenches. This process is vital as it establishes a solid base for the structure, which can prevent issues such as structural instability and cracking walls. Excavating contractors use heavy equipment to carry out this work. They must be skilled and have the right amount of experience to operate these types of machines.

A construction project is an inherently risky undertaking. An excavation contractor must be able to handle this risk by developing and implementing a plan that reduces the potential for accidents. This typically involves the use of spotters and physical barriers to control access and limit vehicle movements around the job site. The contractor must also abide by all local and state regulations regarding the operation of machinery and the use of hazardous materials.

Depending on the location and scope of an excavation, it may require advanced planning. This includes the preparation of a detailed excavation plan that specifies the specific methods and techniques to be used, as well as the equipment and machinery required. It should also include a schedule of activities and how the work will be carried out.

Get the Most Out of Your Investment With Proper Deck Repair

Termite and carpenter ant infestation can destroy wood, weakening decks and railings. A pro can repair this damage before it becomes a serious safety risk for anyone using the deck.

Deck Repair

Contractors with experience and expertise can provide cost estimates and complete the repairs in an efficient manner. Look for contractors that offer warranties and guarantees on their work to ensure satisfaction. Keep reading the article below to Learn More.

Your deck is an important part of your home, where life unfolds – from family gatherings to quiet evenings under the stars. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance are essential to safeguard these cherished moments and prolong your deck’s structural integrity. If you notice the signs of deterioration, it’s time to consider deck repair to get the most out of your investment.

It’s important to understand what goes into making a deck look and feel new again before deciding on the best deck repair option. A full deck replacement may be the answer if the underlying structure is shaky, unstable or unable to support current loads, but many issues can be addressed with repairs.

A professional contractor will examine the condition of your deck to determine what can be done to restore it to its original condition and appearance. They will check for loose boards, railings and stairs as well as the underlying structure of the deck to identify any areas that require attention. If the deck is shaky or unstable, it should be repaired immediately to prevent injuries or further damage.

The contractor will also inspect the area around the ledger board to ensure there are no cracks or other damage that could compromise the deck’s structural integrity and safety. They will also check for wood-boring insects like termites that can tunnel through the surface of the wood, causing serious and costly damage.

Once the deck is prepped, the contractor will apply a waterproofing coating to protect it from moisture that can cause further damage and decay. Before the application, they will use a sander to smooth the surface of the deck to remove rough spots and splinters and give it a fresh finish.

It’s a good idea to schedule deck repairs in mild seasons, such as spring and fall, when temperatures are moderate and more stable. This helps minimize any disruption to your everyday routine and allows the materials used in the repairs to cure properly and achieve their maximum durability. It’s also possible to take advantage of contractor discounts during these times, reducing the overall cost of the project.

Materials

When you start the repair process, make sure that you have all the necessary materials. This will include anything from a tape measure, which is essential for ensuring that you get the right size replacement railings and planks, to a shovel, which can be used if you are looking to move soil to check the foundations of your deck or to expand it. It’s also a good idea to have a circular saw and a cordless drill for securing replacement planks or tightening loose screws.

You should start by doing a full assessment of the deck’s current condition, including both structural and cosmetic issues. Structural problems usually manifest as splintering, cracking, or warping of the deck boards. Rot is another serious issue that can present a collapse hazard. If you suspect rotting, try sinking the tip of a screwdriver into a board; if it goes in easily, the deck needs major renovations to keep it safe.

A deck that is built above living spaces must be properly ventilated. Lack of ventilation will lead to the trapping of moisture that can deteriorate the deck, as well as cause the buildup of mold and mildew. Moisture is also a significant cause of structural issues and can weaken the integrity of the deck, making it more susceptible to damage and collapse.

If you notice any signs of rot or insect infestation, these issues should be dealt with immediately. Pests like termites and carpenter ants can tunnel through wood, causing structural damage that may be impossible to repair without removing the entire deck structure. Infestations are more prone to occur in untreated or inadequately treated wood.

A deck is a place where important life events take place, from family gatherings to quiet evenings under the stars. Keeping your deck in good shape will ensure that you and your loved ones can enjoy these moments for years to come. By assessing your deck regularly and addressing any issues as they arise, you can extend its lifespan and ensure safety.

Tools

When repairing deck damage, it’s important to use tools that make the job easier without damaging the material. For example, using a pry bar to remove rotted or warped boards can lead to more damage by loosening other nearby pieces. A hand sledge is sometimes needed to gently persuade tight boards into place. For fastening hardware, a crescent wrench or adjustable wrench can be used. A pair of locking pliers can also come in handy for tightening or loosening bolts.

Deck repair is often required to address structural issues and cosmetic problems that impact safety or appearance. Structural problems include splintering, cracking, warping, and structural integrity, while cosmetic issues can manifest as discoloration or surface roughness. A comprehensive assessment of the deck’s condition is critical to identifying these issues and taking steps to fix them.

A basic tool kit for deck repair includes a tape measure, a utility knife, and a cordless drill. A scraper is useful for removing old stains or splintering boards and can be used to clean debris from narrow spaces, such as the space between floorboards. A wire brush with hard bristles is also a good choice for cleaning between deck railings. A garden sprayer is ideal for applying a cleaning solution, and a scrub brush can be used to clean stubborn stains or mold.

Other carpentry and construction tools may also be necessary, depending on the type of deck repair needed. A framing square, a speed square, and a combination square can be helpful in checking angles and marking lines. A level is essential to ensure accurate cuts, and a bubble level can help when positioning posts and other components. A hammer and a screwdriver are useful for driving in nails.

In addition to these common tools, a deck repair contractor should have a variety of other supplies on hand. For example, a patching kit can be useful for covering small holes and securing loose boards, while a hammer and claw hammer can be used to remove protruding nails from wood. A power washer is useful for scrubbing and spraying off dirt, mildew, and other unwanted buildup.

Expertise

If your deck has seen better days, it might be time to bring in the professionals. A good handyman will conduct a thorough assessment of your deck’s condition and identify any underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent. This comprehensive evaluation will ensure that your deck repairs are completed properly, enhancing safety and functionality.

A professional handyman will also be able to work more efficiently than you can, saving you both time and stress. They will have the experience to tackle any repair job, from simple cosmetic touch-ups to a complete renovation. Plus, they’ll have the proper tools and materials for the task at hand.

Before tackling any deck repair, it’s essential to thoroughly clean the area. This will remove built-up grime and dirt that can cause further damage to the structure. Additionally, cleaning the deck will allow you to get a clear view of what needs to be repaired, including any problems that might have been obscured by dirt or mold.

Inspect the entire deck for any popped nails, loose boards or wobbly railings. This inspection should also include any structural components like joists and support posts that are starting to rot or have become unstable. These issues should be addressed right away as they can pose a serious safety risk for anyone who uses the deck.

Deck repair can be difficult and complex, especially if there are any major structural problems. If you’re not comfortable working with heavy tools or dealing with potentially dangerous materials, it might be best to leave the repairs to a professional. A professional can guarantee the quality of their work and often comes with a warranty to back it up.

When evaluating the credentials of a potential handyman, be sure to check their license and insurance coverage. They should also comply with any local building codes and permits for working on your deck. It’s also important to consider the weather conditions when planning your deck repair. Temperature fluctuations can affect the performance of some materials and lead to premature cracking and warping. This is particularly true of sealants and staining, which are most effective when applied in mild temperatures.

Must-Have Hunting Tools and Gear

Getting started hunting requires the right gear. From camo clothing and rifle scopes to trail cameras and decoys, the list goes on.

Hunting Tools

A pair of durable, camouflage hunting boots is a must. Look for waterproof leather and high insulation to keep your feet warm. Read on Bugle For Elk for more information.

A first aid kit is also important for treating minor injuries while in the field. Include items like bandages, hand sanitizer and alcohol wipes, tourniquets, pain medication, and hand warmers.

Anyone who spends time outdoors needs a good headlamp, and hunters are no exception. A quality headlamp will let you see where you’re going after dark and help you avoid any obstacles in your path. In addition, a good headlamp can also be used to illuminate your target for shooting or tracking.

LED headlamps are a popular choice for hunters because they are lightweight, energy-efficient, and provide bright illumination. Some headlamps even offer different brightness settings so you can control the intensity of your light. This way, you can avoid any glare or reflection that may alert the animal to your presence. You can also use accessories such as filters or dimmers to customize your light for specific hunting situations.

When shopping for a headlamp, look for one with a long battery life to ensure that it will last throughout your hunting trip. Also, make sure to choose a headlamp that is waterproof so that it will be able to withstand the elements. Some headlamps also come with a strobe mode, which can be useful in emergency situations to signal for help or to scare off any predators.

Lastly, make sure to consider the color of your headlamp. White lights can spook deer, so you should consider getting a green or red headlamp to minimize the chance of disturbing wildlife. In addition, some headlamps are specifically designed for fishing or hunting and have specialized lighting modes that are better suited for these activities. These features will give you a more immersive experience while out on the hunt.

Binoculars

For hunters, binoculars are a necessary piece of hunting equipment that helps them scout the terrain for game and identify potential targets. They also help them hone in on a specific animal, distinguishing its sexes, ages, and any other characteristics that could be important.

Good quality binoculars are essential for hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and birders alike. They are easy to use and offer a wide field of view, making it simple to locate animals and other backcountry landscapes from far away. However, it’s important for prospective buyers to understand that the differences between a pair of binoculars can be significant, especially in terms of magnification and lens diameter. This makes finding the best pair of binoculars for any given hunter a daunting task.

One of the most important things to look for in a pair of binoculars is a central focusing mechanism that is slow and precise, which makes it easier to get precise focus adjustments on distant objects. This feature is particularly beneficial for hunters because wild animals are well-camouflaged and can be difficult to spot if not careful.

Another important feature to consider is a waterproof and fog-proof design. This can be critical because many hunts take place early in the morning or late in the evening, when fog and mist are more likely to form. A pair of binoculars that is fog-proof and waterproof can help eliminate these issues, increasing the chances of spotting game in difficult conditions.

Finally, a good pair of binoculars should have a comfortable grip and feel durable in the hands. A sturdy rubber armoring and a lightweight construction are also important, as these features make it more comfortable to hold the binoculars for long periods of time. A padded neck strap and chest carrier are also helpful accessories to keep your binoculars close at hand and secure while on the move.

Rangefinder

The ability to range a flag or target at the flick of a finger is a huge advantage when out hunting. Whether you are bow or rifle hunter the ability to eliminate guesswork on distance can make the difference between a clean, humane shot and a graze or miss.

If you’re serious about your hunting you should consider investing in a good rangefinder. You’ll likely get plenty of use out of it for years and it will give you an edge over any other hunters that don’t have one.

A rangefinder should be simple to set up and easy to use. It should be able to be put in your pocket and used on the go without any hassle or lengthy instruction. It should also be durable, ergonomic and have a quick yardage return. If you are looking for a rangefinder that offers all the bells and whistles then you will have to spend more money but there are many options available in this price bracket ranging from under $100 up to $400.

When looking at a rangefinder it is important to read the fine print. Manufacturers tend to advertise the maximum ranging distance but in reality, this is not always achievable. This is because most of the time you will only be able to range a reflective object such as a flag or tree limb at close range.

The Leupold RX-Series Diamondback 2000 rangefinder has a max ranging distance of 2,000 yards and is ideal for crossbow and rifle hunters alike. It has a slick, premium design and a durable case to handle the roughest of weather conditions. It is fully waterproof and has a host of features including last mode that allows you to range a specific target through brush or trees.

Safety Harness

Safety harnesses are a form of personal protective equipment that help prevent serious problems like falls. You’ll most commonly see them being worn by professionals working at heights for activities like window cleaning, doing maintenance on a skyscraper, or construction of a building.

As hunters, it’s important to have a good quality harness on hand when you hunt from elevated positions. The primary function of a hunting harness is to keep the user attached to their elevated position in case of a fall, but they also provide peace of mind so hunters can focus on their target and their surroundings rather than worrying about getting hurt.

The best quality safety harnesses are designed with the specific needs of hunters in mind. They include features such as padded shoulder straps to reduce the impact of a fall, and a sliding binocular holder built into the shoulder straps to allow for easy access to your optics. They also come with an adjustable waist and chest strap for a secure fit, and they’re made of rugged materials to resist wear and tear from repeated use and the elements.

It’s a good idea to practice in your safety harness with an adult before using it in the field, so you know what it feels like to hang suspended and how to properly use it. You should also always follow other hunting safety guidelines, such as practicing re-entry to your elevated stand on the ground and ensuring that you have a rapid rescue plan in place in case of a fall. Malta Dynamics has a top-rated climbing harness for treestand hunters that includes all the bells and whistles you’ll need to climb up to your elevated position safely and sit silently for hours as you wait for your perfect shot.

First Aid Kit

For backcountry hunting trips, a first aid kit is a must. The farther you go into the wilderness, the more likely you are to get seriously hurt from accidents or severe weather conditions that require immediate medical attention.

A good first aid kit should be comprehensive and tailored to your specific situation. The items you choose to carry depend on pre-existing injuries or health conditions as well as the specific challenges you face when out hunting.

In addition to the basics like Band-Aids and gauze, a quality first aid kit should include supplies for major wounds from knife or broadhead penetrations. It should also include QuickClot sponges or WouldSeal topical powder to stop heavy bleeding. Field splints are a good addition to any first aid kit because they can be constructed quickly with sticks and tape to hold fingers or limbs in a straight position.

It’s important to have a first aid kit that includes emergency medications, as well. If you have a pre-existing condition that requires medication, bring an emergency dose in a small container that is easy to reach. You may also want to include a small thermometer and water purification tablets or drops in your kit.

Whether you choose a prepackaged first aid kit or make your own, store it in a backpack, suitcase, dry bag, or fanny pack that can easily be carried along on outdoor adventures. Keep it somewhere that is out of children’s reach, and be sure to check it before every trip to ensure the contents are still in good shape. Replace anything that has expired. A good practice is to keep a note of the phone number of your local poison control center near your first aid kit.