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	<title>4Wall Press Center</title>
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			<title>Blue Diamond Machinery Celebrates 100 Pieces of Equipment</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/blue-diamond-machinery-celebrates-100-pieces-of-equipment</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 20 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			In just 15 months, Blue Diamond Machinery has reached 100 pieces of heavy equipment! We proudly present to you, the 100th piece of heavy equipment to our fleet, the John Deere 872GP Motor Grader.

Watch our new video below of the 872GP being delivered.



View the rental listing for our John Deere 872GP Motor Grader here, and call 702-718-0088 today to reserve your rental!

Our user-friendly website has a wide variety of equipment that is available to rent, ranging from backhoes to dozers and everything in between, including new and used equipment for sale.
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>Sell Your Equipment with Blue Diamond Machinery!</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/sell-your-equipment-with-blue-diamond-machinery-</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 04 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			We have been updating our website so that it's easy to navigate and be useful for everyone. We're excited to announce a new feature on our website called "Sell Your Equipment".

Hundreds of people visit our site daily. By selling your equipment with us, it will be posted on our website and promoted for everyone to see.

It's easy to start selling your equipment with us! Visit our website and fill out your FREE listing for your piece of equipment you would like to sell. Don't forget to include nice photos of the equipment along with your information, description of the equipment, and an asking price. Once submitted to us, we'll work as quickly as possible to get your equipment up on our website.

If you have any questions, please give us a call at 702-718-0088.





Start Selling Now!
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>7 Ways to Recruit Quality Employees to Your Construction Company</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/best-way-to-hire-construction-workers</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 08 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Did you know that 70% of contractors struggle to find quality workers?

This is according to a 2017 survey conducted by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and Autodesk, which found that contractors across the US, but particularly in Western states, report to having trouble recruiting job candidates who meet necessary skill and experience requirements.

What accounts for this? As any contractor who survived the 2008 recession knows well, one of the biggest factors behind the labor shortage is the lingering effects of the economic downturn—A full 60 percent of the recession's displaced workers left the construction industry for the transportation or business services sectors and have yet to return.

But another reason is the lack of millennial interest in the trades industry. Millennials now represent 35% of the labor market, yet only a fraction of Millennials have opted for careers in the trades, and that includes construction. Despite these challenges, however, it is possible to find and recruit top talent to your construction company. The key lies in being creative in your search and looking beyond the obvious.

Below are seven of the best ways to hire first-rate construction workers for your business.

1. Hire for loyalty and stability

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction industry has an employee turnover rate of 21.4%--One of the highest rates in the country. Since costs associated with recruiting and training new employees are high, it would stand to reason that one of the first priorities a construction company should have is ensuring their new recruits will stick around for the long haul. One way ensure this is to hire loyal and stable employees.

Do not invest in a flight risk. Instead, examine a candidate's work history carefully—Has he had several jobs in the last five years? What reasons does he give for this? A candidate who has demonstrated a track record of job hopping could be unstable or unsure of his career goals. Either way, he's a risky candidate. Seek out candidates who are not just passionate about their position, but who are also passionate about working for your brand.

2. Recruit year-round

A common mistake many contractors make is to only actively recruit during the busy season. To find the best construction workers, however, companies should be recruiting year-round. Only hiring when you desperately need someone means that you'll be more likely to settle for a sub-par candidate. If you begin the hiring process prior to your busy season, you won't be rushed and will be able to take the time to find the right fit. Even if you end up having to start an employee a couple of weeks earlier than necessary, it'll be worth the investment for a reliable, loyal candidate who will remain on your team for years to come. Get ahead of the curb and start collecting resumes early and often.

3. Think outside of the (ad)box

In today's tight labor market, placing an ad on Craigslist and waiting for the resumes to start pouring in simply isn't enough. To find quality candidates, you may have to go beyond the job boards and take a more proactive approach. Hunt for promising workers at local tech and trade schools, for instance, or consider inviting current employees into the recruitment process by offering referral bonuses for candidate recommendations. Don't be afraid to use social media as a recruitment tool as well—Post your job ad in location-specific Facebook groups and reach out to potential recruits on LinkedIn. You may even want to consider running a recruitment ad on Facebook. Facebook's Ads Manager allows you to create ads that target users by detailed and specific criteria, including location and position title. You can even choose to target employees currently working for a competitor.

4. Focus on character rather than skills

An employee can always be trained on the technical or "hard skills" of a job—Soft skills, however, are another story. It's trickier to train a worker on how to be a good communicator or team player, for example. And being self-motivated, personable or flexible are skills that are more innate—An employee either has those character strengths or he doesn't. This is why when searching for your next new hire, it's important that you focus more on a potential employee's character ratherthan on his skills or even experience level.

A couple of useful questions to ask during the interview process include:


	Tell me about a time when you were asked to do something you had never done before. - This screens for adaptability, which 69% of hiring managers agree is the most important soft skill.
	Tell me about the last time you had to deal with a difficult customer. - This will give you insight into how the employee deals with conflict. You want a worker who will remain calm and rational during conflicts, whether it be with a customer or another employee.


5. Consider employees from diverse backgrounds

Oftentimes candidates looking to make a career change make great construction workers. They may not have a background in the construction industry, but that doesn't mean that they don't possess relevant experience that can benefit your company. Your next great hire could be a former police officer, engineer or military veteran, for example. The nonprofit Helmets to Hardhats is an excellent resource to use if you're looking to recruit a former serviceman or woman, as they match military veterans with jobs in the construction sector.

When hiring outside the construction industry, look for employees with the following qualities:


	Problem solving skills
	Quick decision-making abilities
	Excellent communication
	Experienced and organized planning abilities


These are all crossover skills that apply well to any position in the construction field.

6. Focus on company PR

Another creative way to attract quality candidates is to use PR to highlight the aspects of your company that make it a great place to work. You can do this by publishing comany press releases and getting your company's name listed in local newspapers and magazines. Not only isthis an excellent way to get your name out to potential customers, but it's also an effective way to get your business noticed by potential employees. Qualified candidates are more likely to apply to work for established, reputable companies they're familiar with. If they've read about your new company benefits package in a press release or saw your company's booth at a local charity fundraiser, they'll be more likely to want to work for you.

7. Don't overlook traditional advertising methods

While posting your ad on popular internet job boards is important, be careful not to overlook more traditional recruitment efforts as well. Tech is nice, but sometimes the best way to find new employees is through face-to-face exchanges at job fairs or networking events. Also considerposting "we're hiring!" flyers at local businesses that you think your potential recruits may frequent, such as Home Depot or alocal bar or café.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy machinery company that sells and rents construction equipment across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, call 1-800-712-4190 24/7 or view our used and new inventory at heavyequipmentrentals.com.
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			<title>5 Best Practices for Winterizing Your Heavy Equipment</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/winterizing-heavy-equipment</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			With winter in full swing here in Nevada, we thought we'd provide a few helpful tips on how to best winterize your heavy machinery and keep it from freezing. Though we're lucky in Las Vegas not to have too many below-zero days, many of our customers are located in areas of the country that experience some extreme cold weather conditions. While the occasionally cold weatherdamage often can't be helped, there are a few precautions you can take to minimize the risk.

Below are a few suggestions to get you started.

1. Prevent contamination

When fueling your equipment, be careful to ensure that water and contaminants don't enter your fuel tank. This happens more commonly during the colder months, so you need to pay careful attention to prevent engine contamination.

2. Check for battery, wire and hose freezing

When temperatures drop below freezing, it's vital you check your batteries, wires and hoses to verify they haven't frozen or become stressed due to the frigid temperatures. Not only will a frozen battery not function, but it's also likely to explode if you attempt to charge it or jump start your equipment with it. What's more, hoses and wires can become brittle in the cold. To prevent permanent damage, give your equipment ample time to warm up before operating.

3. Check heaters and defrosters during summer

It's important to check heaters and defrosters before it gets cold, because if you wait until winter hits to check your atmospheric system, you may find yourself in for an unpleasant surprise. Make sure your operator compartment heaters and defrosters are in working order before the first days of fall and make any needed repairs ahead of time.

4. Storeequipment on a raised surface

Watch that your tires don't freeze to the ground, as this can result in tears and drive train damage. You can prevent this from happening by parking your machinery on raised planks. We also recommend that you keep buckets and blades on raised surfaces as well.

5. Minimizestrain on your machine

Remember that frost, ice and frozen ground makes digging more difficult, which can put strain on your machinery. Keep an eye on your equipment to ensure the machines' components are working properly and keep production to a minimum ifpossible.


About Blue Diamond Machinery:Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned, Las Vegas-based heavy equipment company that sells and rents construction equipment across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, call 1-800-712-4190 24/7 or view our used and new inventory atheavyequipmentrentals.com.
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			<title>5 New Construction Projects Set to Reshape Las Vegas in 2019</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/2019-vegas-construction-projects</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			2018 was a big year for renovation in Southern Nevada and 2019 is shaping up to become another eventful year for the valley's construction industry. Several of the valley's biggest resorts and entertainment complexes have unveiled plans for major upgrades and restorations. The following are details about those 2019 plans as well as the scoop on the 2018 remodels you may have missed.

1. $200 million Palace Station expansion




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 



Less Mondays, more #summer! #NewClassicPalace

A post shared by  Palace Station (@palacestation) on Aug 6, 2018 at 4:44pm PDT




After a two year-long renovation, Palace Station Hotel and Casino completed the final phase of its expansion in December 2018. The $192 million investment included a 200,000-square-foot expansion of its casino property; a move that more than doubled the property's size. Palace Station is now 44 times larger than it was when in first opened in 1976. The remodel also included a new bingo room, a renovated race and sports book and a new swimming pool and event space. 500 more slot machines and a new movie theatre were also added.

 

2. $690 million renovation at the Palms




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 



The Unknown (Explored, Explained, Exploded) by @damienhirst #FromDustToGold #PalmsLV #PalmsCollection

A post shared by  Palms Casino Resort (@palms) on May 24, 2018 at 5:27pm PDT




In 2018, the Palms Casino Resort unveiled an ambitious new modern look, which included a complete overhaul of its interiors. In what was speculated to be an effort to capitalize on free social media buzz, several Instagram-worthy pieces of lobby art were added, including a neon sign and a 13-foot tiger shark that sits preserved in a glass tank above the resort's new lobby bar. The Palms also added the Sky Villas--luxury suites that range in price from $25,000 to $45,000 a night—as well as a new steakhouse, nightclub and a mini art museum. Additionally, the Palms redesigned the casino floor, adding 40 new table games with a fun tech component: phone charging outlets in the seats.

 

3. $100 million Asian entertainment zone at The LINQ



Set to open in August 2019, the 100,000-square-foot Kind Heaven will be the latest entertainment attraction to be added to The LINQ. Described as a dining, entertainment and retail space with several "multi-sensory experiences," Kind Heaven will feature restaurants, shopping, a nightclub and virtual reality. The most talked about attraction, however, is Kind Heaven's southeast Asian theme, which will include a sanctuary and forest temple. Artistic renderings of Kind Heaven are on the venue's website.

 

4. $60 million Silverton Village at Silverton Casino Hotel




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 



The Starbucks Drive Thru at Silverton Village is now open! Stay awhile and enjoy the custom firepit, hand-painted murals, charging stations, social seating, and more. #StarbucksSilvertonVillage

A post shared by  silvertoncasino (@silvertoncasino) on Dec 21, 2018 at 11:42am PST




Big remodeling plans are underway at the Silverton Casino Hotel, including the creation of a mixed-use hospitality and retail district and the addition of a 150-room Hyatt Place Hotel. The businesses planned for the retail district, which the hotel has named "Silverton Village," include Blaze Pizza, Firehouse Subs and Panera Bread, among others. The exact opening date has yet to be revealed, but a new dive-thru Starbucks opened at the village in December.

 

5. The Fremont Street Experience canopy upgrade



When the Fremont Street Experience canopy debuted in 1995, it was the largest video screen in the world. 24 years later, the canopy is still the largest of its kind on the planet, featuring 12.5 million LED lights and a 550,000-watt sound system. In 2019, plans are underway to give the screen a modern makeover. Not only will the screens be seven times brighter, but they'll also play new digital content and contain an interactive component. This new engagement feature will allow visitors to use an app to post personalized messages on the screen and vote for the next song or video on the playlist. The upgrade is set to cost $32 million and is scheduled to be completed December 31, 2019--Just in time for Fremont Street's New Years Eve celebration.

Other notable projects:


	A new movie theatre in North Las Vegas will debut January 18, 2019. Maya Cinemas, which is located on North Las Vegas Boulevard in front of the Silver Nugget Casino, will feature 14 movie screens and luxury reclining seating. Visit MayaCinemas.com to learn more.
	The Downtown Grand Hotel and Casino is set to start construction on a new 495-room tower in January 2019. Construction is expected to wrap sometime in 2020.



About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned, Las Vegas-based heavy equipment company that sells and rents construction equipment across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, call 1-800-712-4190 24/7 or view our used and new inventory at heavyequipmentrentals.com.
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>Buying Used Heavy Machinery? 5 Things to Check Before You Make a Purchase</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/tips-for-buying-construction-equipment</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Buying construction equipment is no different than buying any other major piece of machinery--You should approach the purchasing process with careful consideration and intention. Don't rush. Instead, take the time to conduct a thorough and detailed inspection that includes an examination of the machine's engine, tires and hydraulics.

The following is a six-point check list to use before pulling the trigger and buying a piece of used construction equipment. 

1. Review the equipment's history


	Check for valid ownership--It's important to review the equipment's history to ensure there are no liens on the machine and that it hasn't been stolen. Check the equipment's title by running the PIN.
	Review the maintenance record--You also want to obtain a maintenance record in order to ensure the machine has been properly cared for and that all the fluids have been changed on a regular basis.
	Check the fluids--You shouldn't only rely on what's written on the maintenance record. Double check that what you're reading is accurate by looking at the fluids yourself. Open the engine and examine the transmission fluid, coolant and hydraulic fluid as well as the engine oil. Fluids that are low or dirty could mean that the machine's previous owner wasn't keeping up the recommended maintenance schedule, or worse, it could signal a problem with the equipment.  
	Note the machine's operating hours--A machine's operating hours are like the miles on a car, so it's important to make note of it and weigh it against the price of the machine. Keep in mind, however, that a high number of operating hours isn't necessarily a deal breaker if the machine has been well maintained.


2. Inspect for damage

A used machine will normally show signs of wear, including dings and scratches. But what you don't want to see are hairline cracks or rust. Look at the tires or the undercarriage as well, as the status of those can reveal a lot about how the equipment has been handled and maintained.

Several important areas to examine include:


	The undercarriage--Repairing the undercarriage of a tracked vehicle is expensive, so it's important to thoroughly examine it for damage or uneven wear. 
	The hydraulics--Examine the hydraulic cylinders for leaks, dents or scratches.
	The engine--Check the engine for loose belts, dirty filters and leaks. Turn the machine on and use a mechanic's stethoscope to listen for any knocking or scratching sounds that appear to be coming from the engine's cylinders.
	The tires--In addition to checking for any bulges or punctures on the tires, make sure to check for uneven tread wear, as this could indicate an alignment problem. Use a tire gauge to measure the tire's tread depth and then compare that measurement to the tread depth listed on the manufacturer's website.


3. Examine the engine exhaust 

If the machine your considering buying omits black, white or blue-colored exhaust, walk away from the purchase. 

Here are the red flags you should watch out for:

Black exhaust- Black exhaust means the engine is burning too much fuel, which could mean the machine has a dirty air filter or faulty injector.

White exhaust - White exhaust (or exhaust that looks like steam) means that the fuel is burning incorrectly, which could signal that a faulty head gasket is letting water mix with the fuel.

Blue exhaust - Blue exhaust means that the engine is burning oil, which could be caused by a worn ring or seal or by an over-fill of engine oil. 

4. Check the hydraulics

Checking the hydraulics is a simple yet vitally important part of the inspection process. First, turn on the engine and operate the attachments. If you experience difficulty steering or notice a "chattering noise" or any other unusual sound, this could be a sign the machine has a hydraulics issue. Also note if the fluid temperatures remain consistently high or if you experience a loss in pressure when operating the attachments.

5. Check the buckets and forks

If you're looking to purchase an excavator or loader backhoe, check the bucket teeth for signs of scalloping, as scalloping decreases a bucket's cutting force.

You should look for the following:

Buckets: Examine the leading edge for signs of wear. You also want to note the thickness of the side panels and the condition of the bottom of the bucket. Notice if there are any welds or other signs of repair work.

Forklifts: Check the fork heels for signs of wear and thickness. The heel forks should have the same degree of thickness as the upright fork shank. Examine the forks for welds, as a machine with numerous welds has experienced a lot of strain and damage. This also suggests that the machine may have other unseen or undiagnosed issues.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned, Las Vegas-based heavy equipment company that sells and rents construction equipment across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, call 1-800-712-4190 24/7 or view our used and new inventory at heavyequipmentrentals.com.
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			<title>Nevada Construction by the Numbers: 8 Surprising Statistics</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/nevada-construction-statistics</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			You see it everywhere on the news and on social media: Nevada construction is booming again. But is that really the case? We take a look at the most recent statistics available, comparing the Nevada construction industry's outlook in 2019 with how it looked at its peak in 2007. We also compiled the latest facts and figures related to construction pay and employment numbers.

Do you find any of these statistics surprising? Join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook and let us know. 

Construction Jobs

1. There are 68,340 people working in the field of construction in Nevada.  Click to tweet.   Source

2. Construction employment in Southern Nevada has nearly doubled since 2012. Click to tweet.   Source

3. From May 2018 to June 2018, the construction industry in Nevada gained 1,200 jobs Source

Pay

4. The median salary for a person employed in the construction industry in Nevada is $22.35. Source

Prediction

5. Between 2017 and 2018, the number of construction jobs in Nevada increased by 7.2% - Nevada has one of the biggest growing construction industries in the country - It currently ranks 4th in the nation. Click to tweet.   Source. 

6. Though construction employment is on the rise, it isn't anywhere near the peak it reached in 2006. In 2006, Nevada boasted 112,000 construction jobs. However, construction employment in Nevada--and Las Vegas in particular--is still above the national average. Source: Associated General Contractors of America.

Development

7. Homebuilders closed 9,400 sales in Clark County in 2018. The peak was 39,000, which occurred back in 2005. Source: Home Builders Research Click to tweet..

8. Banks are loaning more to construction and development deals. For example, 21% of First Security Bank of Nevada's loans went to construction and development. By comparison, the numbers were 4% in 2012 and 35% in 2008. Source


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is a premier, independently owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. From our headquarters in Las Vegas, we proudly service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
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			<title>Heavy Equipment Operator Safety Tips: 8 Ways to Prevent Jobsite Injury</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/heavy-equipment-operator-safety-tips</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			According to OSHA, the following are the top three causes of jobsite fatalities:


	Runovers or backovers (48%)
	Vehicle collisions (14%)
	People hit or pinned by equipment (14%)


It may seem redundant to review heavy equipment safety tips, but as the statistics above demonstrate, fatalities still can and do happen--even to the most experienced equipment operators. It's important to frequently review standard operator rules and guidelines in order to keep yourself and your crew safe.

Below is a roundup of our top tips for staying safe while operating heavy machinery. 

1. Inspect equipment before operating

Be diligent about conducting daily inspections. Do an equipment walk-around at least once a day, making sure to examine all the components on your checklist, including oil levels and hydraulic hoses.

2. Identify power lines and underground utilities in advance

Upon arriving to a new jobsite, take the time to double check that all the power lines and low clearance obstructions have been identified. Also check that underground utilities, such as water, gas, sewer and electric lines, have been marked with color-coded paint and flags. 

3. Be cautious when mounting and dismounting equipment

According to OSHA, the most common cause of injury is falls that occur when a worker steps on and off equipment. Remember to have three points of contact when mounting and dismounting; Never jump. 

4. Wear a seatbelt

Wearing a seatbelt in a slow-moving machine may seem unnecessarily, but it's an easy and quick safety measure to take--buckling up only takes a few seconds--and it can can keep you safe during a rollover. 

5. Watch for blind spots

Before you start the equipment, it's vitally important that you're 100 percent positive that no one is behind you or standing in your blind spots. Enlist a spotter to help direct you or climb out of the machine and check yourself, but never assume the coast is clear. Let anyone working with you know about your blind spots and ask them make eye contact with you before approaching the machine. Also, remind any guests on the jobsite that they must keep their reflective safety vests on at all times.

6. Use a radio or hand signals to communicate

If you don't have a two-way radio on hand, use a spotter that is trained on the proper hand-signals. 

7. Take precautions when loading and unloading the equipment

Make sure you're on level ground when unloading and loading equipment. This will limit the risk of equipment sliding off of ramps or rolling over. As always, make sure the area is free of people and that a spotter is on hand to help.

8. Keep load limits in mind

Load limits can differ drastically between various machines, so stay aware of each machine's limit before and during operation.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned, heavy machinery company that sells and rents construction equipment across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, call 1-800-712-4190 24/7 or view our used and new inventory at heavyequipmentrentals.com.
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			<title>Tips for Buying an Excavator: 6 Things to Check Before You Purchase</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/tips-for-buying-an-excavator</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 31 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Whether buying an excavator new or used, it's important to do your homework beforehand so that you can make an informed purchasing decision. Below are several questions to ask yourself as well as an inspection checklist to use when examining the excavator for damage or excessive wear.

 

1. What will you need the machine for?



Excavators are grouped into three sizes (0-7 metric tons), standard (7-44 tons) and large (45-80 tons). Before you contact a seller, know the spec requirements for the job, as this will help you determine the size of machine you'll need. You'll also need to consider ahead of time whether or not you'll need any support attachments, such as couplers, rippers and hammers.

2. Do you have a trailer?

In addition to ensuring you have a trailer that is equipped to transport your excavator, you'll also need to make sure your drivers have the correct certification and that your trailer will be able to maneuver successfully to and from your jobsite. Certain roads and bridges, for example, may not allow oversized loads. What's more, these are all added expenses that you'll need to factor in when budgeting for your purchase. 

3. Do you trust the dealer?

It's wise to develop a long-term relationship with a dealer, particularly if you foresee needing to make any construction equipment purchases, rentals or repairs in the future. It's important that the heavy equipment company you choose is not only knowledgeable, but dependable and ethical as well.

6 Things to Check Before You Buy:



In a perfect world, you wouldn't need to make an equipment inspection at all, and would be able to make a purchase sight unseen. But in the real world, even the most reputable and honest construction equipment sellers can sometimes make mistakes and overlook a major malfunction. Whether you are purchasing a new excavator or one with years of clocked operating hours, it's vital you conduct a thorough and careful inspection before making a purchasing agreement.

Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Check the slew ring for damage

Slew rings are some of the most expensive items to replace or repair, so it's important that you ensure the slew ring in your hydraulic excavator hasn't been damaged before you sign the purchasing paperwork. This is particularly important if you're purchasing a used excavator, as poor machine maintenance—such as insufficient lubrication or overloading—can lead to early slew ring failure. 

During your inspection, make sure to:


	Rotate the housing to a quarter turn and check for any play or movement.


2. Check for loose connections in the boom, stick and bucket

Pins and bearings should be tight, especially in the excavator stick and bucket connection points. It's important to check this, as any looseness, play or movement in the excavator's connection points could affect the machine's accuracy.

3. Inspect for cracks and bends 

Check for any cracks or dents in the excavator, particularly in the following areas:


	The boom and stick - Check for cracks in the connection point welds between the boom and stick and the stick and the bucket. If you spot any cracks, know this could be a sign that the boom or stick will need to be replaced.
	Undercarriage - Note any dents or damage in the excavator's undercarriage, as this likely means the machine wasn't used as recommended. The operator may have been careless or the machine may have been in an accident. Either way, this could be a sign of internal damage. 


4. Look for leaks 

Inspect the hydraulic pump compartment for leaks.This should include inspecting the hoses, cylinders and lines.

5. Double check the hours meter 

If you have any question about the hours meter reading, check the control pedals. If you note wear that seems excessive, this could mean that the meter is broken or has been altered and that the machine has logged more hours than the meter is displaying. 

6. Examine the bucket teeth for scalloping 

Scalloping (wear that occurs between the bucket teeth, in the shape of half moons) indicates that the excavator has a reduced cutting force. While this occurs normally over time and doesn't necessarily mean that the bucket needs to be replaced, it is something to consider when evaluating the overall value of the machine. 


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned construction equipment company in Las Vegas that rents and sells heavy equipment. Blue Diamond Machinery currently services Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, visit www.bluediamondmachinery.com.
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			<title>Blue Diamond Machinery Welcomes New Vice President of Operations</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/new-vp-operations</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 04 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Blue Diamond Machinery

Phone: (702) 718-0088

Email: Marketing@BlueDiamondMachinery.com

 

Blue Diamond Machinery Welcomes New Vice President of Operations

Experienced manager Kevin Emge brings 30 years of leadership and industry experience to the Las Vegas Valley's leading construction equipment sales and rental company.

Las Vegas, Nevada, February 4, 2019—Blue Diamond Machinery has been growing over the last few months, expanding its fleet of heavy equipment and welcoming several new employees, including Kevin Emge as their new vice president of operations.

Emge comes to Blue Diamond Machinery with over 30 years of construction equipment experience, most recently as an inventory manager for a Las Vegas Caterpillar dealer, where he worked for seven years.

"I'm excited for this opportunity to help lead the Blue Diamond Machinery team," said Emge. "I've been watching Blue Diamond Machinery's progression over the last couple of years and I've been impressed by their success. I look forward to being a part of a fast-growing company and working with a fun and ambitious team."

Originally from Montana, Emge began his career in 1989 as a truck engine mechanic, working his way up to the position of truck engine account manager before transitioning into the heavy equipment side of the business in 2000. Over a 20-year period, Emge served in a diverse span of roles, including as rental manager, product support manager, sales operations manager and asset manager. Emge also has a bachelor's degree in diesel technology from Montana State University-Northern.

"We love that Kevin Emge has such a wide variety of experience," said Curry Smythe, CEO of Blue Diamond Machinery. "He has worked in nearly every position in the industry, and we think that will go a long way in helping grow collaboration and communication between Blue Diamond Machinery's various departments."

In his free time, Emge enjoys film-making as well as design and home improvement projects. He also has a passion for customizing and showing his latest project car, his 2008 Shelby GT500 Ford Mustang.

"You can look for me in the next car show," Emge said.

###

Blue Diamond Machinery is the premiere, independently-owned heavy equipment and sales rental company in Southern Nevada, servicing all of Nevada, Utah and Idaho. Blue Diamond Machinery rents and sells a variety of construction equipment, including excavators, dozers and backhoes and more. For questions or to learn more about Blue Diamond Machinery, visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com.
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>How to Extend the Life of Your Machinery</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/heavy-equipment-maintenance-tips</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Everyone in the construction industry knows that equipment maintenance is important, but did you know that preventative maintenance can decrease equipment repair bills by 25 percent? 

Proper machine care not only saves you money, but it also keeps your workers safe and your machines operating at their most efficient level. Case in point: Research has found that managers who implement a preventative maintenance practice rank in the 90th percentile for on-time project completion whereas those who don't rank 19th.

The benefits of machine maintenance are clear, but where to begin?

Below are several steps you can take to keep your machines in top condition and minimize the need for costly repairs.

1. Familiarize yourself with your equipment

The first and most important thing you can do to maintain your heavy equipment is to read the factory-provided manual. The manual will not only help you get to know your machine's parts and their various functions, but it'll also provide maintenance tips as well as instructions on how to fix a number of common malfunctions.

You should also regularly check in with your operators. They work with the machine on a day-to-day basis and thus have a "feel" for how the equipment operates. They're also familiar with the equipment's unique idiosyncrasies. They'll know when something is wrong, even often before the machine's monitoring equipment does.

2. Take steps to prevent the most common causes of machinery failure

While it's true that sometimes accidents and unavoidable equipment failures occur, there are three types of machinery failure that can be avoided by taking a few preventative measures. The three most common causes of equipment failure are as follows.


	Mechanically-induced failure--Machine failure that is a result of a mechanical malfunction is the easiest to avoid and can be prevented by maintaining proper lubrication and alignment, ensuring all fasteners are tightened and by replacing broken parts immediately.
	Thermally-induced failure--This type of failure happens during extreme weather conditions or large temperature fluctuations. Where Blue Diamond Machinery is headquartered in Las Vegas, for example, machinery can experience thermally-induced failure during the summer months, when temperatures rise well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. You can prevent this from happening by storing your equipment in a shaded area during the summer and on a raised surface in the winter. Read: 5 Best Practices for Winterizing Your Heavy Equipment.
	Erratic failure--Erratic failure is most commonly caused by overloads or software and hardware malfunctions. Though an erratic failure is more difficult to prevent than other types of machine failure, if you implement diagnostic equipment—like scan tools or emissions analyzers --the odds can be reduced.


3. Stick to the factory-recommended maintenance schedule

Your machine's manual will include a maintenance schedule. Adhere to it. Keep in mind, however, that the maintenance intervals the manufacturer suggests are set based on typical operating conditions. You may need to service your machine more frequently if it is being operated in a climate that has a lot of mud, ice, snow or temperature extremes.



4. Create and adhere to a maintenance checklist

A maintenance checklist is an efficient way to stay organized and ensure no part of the machine gets accidentally overlooked. The maintenance list should include the following:


	Inspect the undercarriage for rust, dents or damage.
	Inspect the breaks, which should include examining the filters, fluid levels, lines and fittings.
	Check the fluid levels, air filter, belts, hoses and batter connections.


Below are two detailed maintenance checklists you can print and follow:


	Caterpillar Safety and Maintenance Inspection Checklists
	John Deere Safety and Maintenance Inspection Checklist


5. Avoid overworking your machines

Check the owner's manual for performance specifications. It's important to follow weight limits for loads as well as inclines, as overworking your machine can lead to exhaust problems. Give your machine a break if you notice signs of overheating and keep use to a minimum outside of recommended operating temperatures.

6. Store your equipment properly

Your construction equipment should be stored in a covered, dry area and away from harsh sunlight or water, becuase water can cause rust. If you're leaving your machine in storage for a long period of time, make sure to start and move the machine at least once a month. This will help maintain lubrication.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. We are headquartered in Las Vegas and service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
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			<title>6 Anti-Theft Devices that Will Help Protect Your Heavy Equipment from Theft</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/heavy-equipment-anti-theft-devices</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			If you think your company will never be the victim of construction equipment theft, consider the following statistics:


	Every month, as many as 1,200 equipment theft reports are filed with the National Crime Information Center.
	Heavy equipment is five times as likely to be stolen than it is to be damaged in a car accident, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau and the National Equipment Register.
	The average price tag of a stolen machine is $17,400.


Though heavy machinery theft is relatively rare, the consequences of having it happen even just once can be detrimental to a construction company. Luckily for contractors, a little worst-case scenario planning can go a long way in avoiding the costly expense of having to replace stolen machinery.

Below are several ant-theft devices to consider when creating a loss-prevention strategy for your construction business. 

1. High-security locks

Your first priority should be to put locks on all vehicles, trailers and portable equipment. The locks you choose should be pick-resistant and made from laminated steel. In addition to placing a lock on each machine's steering wheel, you may also want to add a lock to the wheels/Axel, hood side plates and fuel caps. 

2. Chains

Chain your equipment together whenever possible. Because driving off with a skid steer is tricky, but driving off with a skid steer when it has been chained to an excavator and a rock truck is a lot more difficult. Make sure the chains are case-hardened and thick enough to guard against cutting. 

3. Equipment ID numbers

Create equipment identification numbers and stamp all equipment and attachments with it. Put the identification number on the outside of the machine and also hidden somewhere on the inside as well. This will not only deter would-be thieves. but it will also help police identify your machinery in the event something goes missing. 

4. Night cameras and motion sensors

A digital wireless video system and motion sensors may be an expensive investment, but they are one of the best ways to prevent machine theft. You can opt to have your cameras record continuously during off hours or you can program them to only record when motion is detected.  

5. Light towers

Light towers can be particularly useful if you have a large fleet of equipment. Though a light tower may lack the bells and whistles of a fancy alarm system, sometimes a bright spotlight is enough to make a thief reconsider his plan to rob your business. Some light towers are as tall as 30 feet in height and can even rotate 360 degrees, ensuring that you (and your cameras) have a full view of the entire machine yard.

At Blue Diamond Machinery, we offer our clients a Wacker Neuson LTV6K Light Tower, which has a height of 22.7 feet when the mast is extended.



6. Deactivation and tracking devices

Deactivation devices work in a variety of ways—Some require operators to enter a secret pin while others require they use a special key or keychain fob. Regardless of the particulars of the technology, however, the end result is the same--the machine immediately shuts off as soon as the device is triggered. 

Thieves may be find ways to work around deactivation devices, however, which is why a GPS tracking device--like a LoJack transmitter--can come in handy. Tracking devices are activated once a police report is filed. The police can then use the technology to pin-point the machine's exact location.

What to do if your equipment is stolen:

Sometimes you can do everything right and tragedy still strikes. If it does, here are a few steps to take in the hours after the theft occurs. 


	Block off the "crime scene" so that evidence can be collected by the authorities.
	Create a list of all the items stolen so that you can present it to the police and to your insurance company.
	Take your own photos of the crime scene, as you may need them for insurance filing purposes.
	Let auction houses and equipment sellers know about the theft and run a daily check on online heavy equipment sales and auction sites.



About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy machinery company that sells and rents construction equipment across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, call 1-800-712-4190 24/7 or view our used and new inventory at heavyequipmentrentals.com.
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>Renting vs. Buying Heavy Machinery: Which Should You Choose?</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/renting-vs-buying-heavy-equipment</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 27 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			As many in the industry have noted, heavy equipment sales worldwide have greatly increased over the last few years. Volvo recently reported a 27% increase in sales for 2018 and Caterpillar reported a similar 2018 gain of 20%. All of this growth has lead some in the construction and mining industries to wonder: Should we stop renting and start buying instead?

The short answer is: It depends. Every company is different and the decision to buy should be made based on the particulars of your company's current financial situation as well as your brand's specific long-term needs and objectives.

That said, we've compiled a list of buying and renting pros and cons in order to help simplify the decision-making process. 

When should you rent?



Renting may be your best option if you meet one or more of the below criteria:


	You lack storage space--Storing a large piece of heavy machinery can be expensive, as it requires a covered, dry space as well as anti-theft security measures. If you don't have access to a storage facility, renting may be a more affordable option.
	You lack technicians and delivery drivers--It's important to keep in mind that the machine's listing price isn't the only expense related to purchasing heavy equipment. Buyers also need to budget in the cost of hiring the necessary technicians and drivers in order to ensure the equipment is maintained, repaired and delivered on schedule to and from the jobsite. When you rent, on the other hand, the rental company handles any needed maintenance or repairs, often directly from your jobsite, as part of the cost of the rental. If you don't have the manpower or resources to maintain and transport heavy equipment, renting may be the better choice. 
	You only need the equipment for a short period of time--In most instances involving short-term or one-off projects, it makes more financial sense to rent. Buying should be reserved for long-term projects or if you foresee needing the equipment for multiple jobs.
	Your project requires a specialized piece of equipment--When you buy, you're often forced to select a versatile machine that you'll be able to use in a wide variety of jobs. When you rent, on the other hand, you have the freedom to tailor your choices so that you get the exact size you need. Surprisingly, renting in these circumstances can actually save you money, as you aren't stuck having to use a bigger machine that requires more fuel or power than is necessary; you can choose a machine that fits the precise requirements of that specific job.


When should you buy?



Buying may be your best option if you meet one or more of the below criteria:


	You have the resources to purchase--Money and a good credit score isn't all you'll need to buy a piece of heavy machinery. You'll also need to ensure you have the storage space and the employees on staff to maintain the equipment and deliver them to your various jobsites. 
	You plan on using the machine more than 65% of the time--The general rule of thumb to follow is this: If you're using a machine more than 65% percent of the time (or for eight or more months a year), then buying is often the better option. 
	You require the flexibility--Owning a machine comes with a certain level of flexibility that renting does not. When you own a machine, you can react quickly to changes in your construction schedule and can adapt easily as project needs change. 
	You need a multipurpose machine ­‑- Good items to buy include multi-purpose tools like generators, rotary hammers or drills. You may also want to purchase the machines you use most commonly, like wheel loaders or backhoes. 


Renting vs Buying:



Should you rent or should you buy? Ultimately, the answer to that may not matter as much as you think. Many companies have found that what works best for them is to do both. They buy frequently-used and multi-purpose machines and then they rent the specialized and expensive machines. 

Rent, Buy or Sell - Blue Diamond Machinery Can Help

Blue Diamond Machinery offers a variety of name-brand construction and landscaping equipment at affordable prices, servicing commercial construction companies across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. Whether you're looking to rent, buy or even sell, our growing team has over 65 years in the construction industry, and can use that expertise to help meet your heavy equipment needs. Our company motto is: "Giving our best for your success." 

View our Equipment for Rent.

View our Equipment for Sale.

Request a Quote.  
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			<title>7 Reasons Why Nevada is a Great State to Work Construction</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/nevada-great-state-work-construction</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 15 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			When it comes to a career in construction, Nevada is the place to be. Sure, the Silver State may have triple-digit summer temperatures, but it also has 300 days of sunshine, a wide variety of construction project opportunities and some of the coolest people you'll ever meet.

Plus, the construction industry in Nevada is booming. While it hasn't reached 2006 levels yet, in 2018, Nevada added 1,200 new construction jobs - and that was just in May and June alone. What's more, construction employment in Nevada has increased by  7.2% year-over-year, which suggests new construction jobs will continue to be added in 2019 and possibly in the years to follow.

Below are seven reasons why you should drop what you're doing and move to Nevada to work construction (if you haven't already).

1. 300 days of sunshine

It's true that Nevada can get uncomfortably hot during the summer months (117 degrees, anyone?) and that can spell for a brutal work day for anyone working outside. The flip side of that, however, is that with all that desert heat comes cloudless skies and an annual average of 300 days of sunshine.

In fact, Las Vegas ranks as the second sunniest city in the US (Phoenix is first) and the state as a whole ranks third in the country. That means Nevada sees less rain, snow or hail than most other states, and experiences relatively mild winters. As a matter of fact, the Sperling's Comfort Index, which measures how many days fall within the comfort range of 70-80 degrees, ranks Las Vegas as 85 out of a possible 100 (the US average is 54). 

This means that for nine months of the year, Nevada has beautiful weather and nearly ideal conditions for working outdoors. 

2. Never a dull day



Widening Highway 160 between Las Vegas and Pahrump, Nevada.

No one could accuse Nevada of being boring. The Entertainment Capital of the World has been staying busy in recent years while it's undergone a population boom. Nevada was the fourth most-moved-to-state in 2018, welcoming 62,000 people between July 1, 2017, and July 1, 2018. The influx of new residents has spurred a demand for development, which has lead to an increase in construction jobs. Nevada currently has the fourth biggest growing construction industry in the US. And it shows - Not only are new housing complexes cropping up across the state, but so are new hotels. 

In Nevada, you don't have to worry about struggling through a slow season, because, well, there isn't one.

Read: Nevada Construction by the Numbers: 8 Surprising Statistics

3. Laid back people from around the world

Construction folks are an easy-going bunch in general, but this is particularly true of the construction workers and contractors in Nevada. Perhaps it's that Nevada's workforce is so diverse - Nevada is a "majority-minority" state - or maybe it's because Nevada is a state of outsiders - most current residents originated elsewhere. But whatever the reason, Nevada's construction professionals are some of the most interesting and open-minded in the country.  

4. A wide variety of projects



When you work construction in Nevada, you aren't just involved in supermarket builds and condo expansions. In 2018, Blue Diamond Machinery machines were involved in a number of unique projects, including the construction of the new Raiders Stadium, the new Las Vegas Ballpark in Downtown Summerlin and Resorts World--the first new mega resort to be built ground-up on the Strip in almost 10 years.

5. Beautiful natural scenery



Not a bad "office view," huh? 

While Nevada certainly has some notably picturesque desert landscape, non-residents may be surprised to learn that Nevada is home to several lakes and a huge expanse of forest as well. In fact, Nevada's Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is one of the largest national forests in the US, spanning 6.3 million acres.

This can make for a stunning backdrop, whether you're an excavator operator working to widen a mountain highway or a framer building Las Vegas' next generation of mega resorts.

6. A chance to be part of history



The 35th state in the US has seen a lot of exciting changes recently. The surprising success of the Las Vegas Golden Knights in 2018 recast Sin City as a possible new professional sports Mecca, helping to fuel excitement for the Raiders - which will become the first professional football team the city has seen in its entire 100+ year history.

Add Nevada's recent population boom, and it's easy to see why analysts predict Nevada is on the precipice of massive, historical change. When you work construction here, you get to be on the front lines of that change, so to speak, and to play an active part in what historians may one day view as Nevada's renaissance period. 

7. Only the tough survive

Nevada isn't a state for the faint at heart. The summer heat makes sure of that. But even if working and commuting in 110-degree temperatures doesn't faze you, the notoriously bad drivers, rising rents and poor education system can mean that life in the Silver State isn't always easy, particularly if you're also trying to raise a family here. But if you're resourceful, self-reliant, and willing to work hard, you're likely to thrive working construction in this wacky yet wonderful Wild West of a state.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is a premier, independently owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. From our headquarters in Las Vegas, we proudly service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>How to Prepare Your Heavy Equipment for Summer</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/prepare-your-heavy-equipment-summer</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 19 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			We've had an unusually long, cold and wacky winter here in Las Vegas. With the beginnings of a hot desert summer already upon us, it's hard to believe that just three weeks ago it was snowing at our Nevada headquarters. 

With winter behind us, however, we thought we'd compile a few tips for keeping your equipment in top condition during the summer heat. Because if your summers are anything like the desert scorchers we experience in Southern Nevada, you'll need to take some proactive measures to ensure your equipment doesn't wear down or overheat.




	
	Prep equipment before summer starts
	


The best time to start preparing for the summer heat is now. Just as you shouldn't wait until the middle of December to begin winterizing your heavy equipment, so too shouldn't you wait until mid-July to prepare your machines for summer. When preparing for the heat, be proactive by doing the following:


	Keep machines clean, paying extra attention to the radiator and air flow passages
	Grease equipment
	Get up-to-date on maintenance services
	Check fluid levels



	
	Store machinery away from the sun
	


If possible, keep your equipment in a shaded area or storage room. Or if that's not an option, consider reducing your equipment's heat exposure by covering the machines with tarps. These measures can go a long way in preventing heat damage and prolonging the life of your equipment.


	
	Minimize use during peak daylight hours
	


The summer heat can be most intense during peak daylight hours - generally between 10:00am and 3:00pm. Though it may be not be possible to stop all work during this time, keep it to a minimum on days when a heat advisory is in effect. This can prevent your equipment from overheating and, more importantly, it will keep your operators safe.


	
	Pay attention to displays during heat waves
	


When temperatures are soaring, it's important to be mindful of your machines' displays. If your equipment shows any signs of needing to cool down, move them into the shade and let the machine run idle before powering it down.


	
	Don't neglect the batteries
	


Tires and engine belts usually receive regular maintenance during the summer, but batteries can often get overlooked. A weak battery can malfunction during extreme heat, so it's important to take steps to ensure your unit is always charged and the battery's electrolytes are at their recommended levels.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned, heavy machinery company that sells and rents construction equipment across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, call 1-800-712-4190 24/7 or view our used and new inventory at heavyequipmentrentals.com.
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			<title>5 New Resorts Being Built in Las Vegas in 2019</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/new-resorts-being-built-in-las-vegas</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Blue Diamond Machinery's Hitachi 350LC Excavator building Resorts World Las Vegas. 

An estimated $17 billion is expected to be spent on new Las Vegas resort construction projects in 2019 and 2020.

In a town where the unofficial development motto is "out with the old, in with the new," it should come as no surprise to learn that Las Vegas is poised to welcome several new resorts and hotel expansions to the already crammed Las Vegas Strip and Downtown Las Vegas skyline. 2020 will likely see the opening of at least two brand new resorts and several remodels—just in time to celebrate the opening of the much anticipated Raiders Stadium.

Why Locals Should Care

When new hotels open in Las Vegas, it's not just the visitors who benefit—Southern Nevada residents profit as well. More hotel rooms means the anticipation of more guests, which means an increase in hotel staff hiring—From housekeepers to hotel restaurant waiters to even construction workers. In fact, studies have shown that with every new hotel room comes an additional two and half new jobs.

Thus, whether you regularly enjoy Vegas staycations or haven't set foot on the Strip in over 10 years, you'll likely find something to like in this list of five new resorts being built in Las Vegas in 2019.

1. Cira




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Circa Las Vegas (@circalasvegas) on Jan 11, 2019 at 1:03pm PST




Where it's being built: Downtown Las Vegas 

Opening in late 2020, Circa (as in circa 1950) is the first downtown resort to be built from the ground-up since 1980. Though construction has only just started, the casino has already generated a generous amount of buzz among locals and industry insiders. Not only will Circa be the tallest tower north of the Strip, but it will also feature the longest outdoor bar on Fremont Street Experience, a two-level stadium style sports book, and the "biggest screen in sportsbook history"

Artistic renderings show a plan for a "pool complex" that will be able to accommodate up to 4,000 people and will showcase a large video wall (ideal for catching a Golden Knights Game poolside).

The casino's developers are Derek and Greg Stevens, the same duo who own The D, Golden Gate and the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center.

2. The Downtown Grand Las Vegas




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Downtown Grand Las Vegas (@downtowngrandlv) on Jan 7, 2019 at 11:29am PST




Where it's being built: Downtown Las Vegas


The Downtown Grand established itself as a locals hangout early on when it made its pool free non-hotel guests; a rarity in a town where $25 pool entrance fees are common. The Downtown Grand made headlines once again in January 2019 when it announced it would be expanding. The resort will be adding a new 250,000-square-foot hotel tower, which will include 500 new rooms across seven floors as well as three presidential suites.

The tower is expected to open in mid-2020. 

3. The Drew Las Vegas




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Nanda Kriese (@nandakrieselvrealestate) on Dec 14, 2018 at 9:49am PST




Where it's being built: The Las Vegas Strip

The Drew Las Vegas (formerly known as FontainebleauLas Vegas) has sat unfinished in the shadow of the Stratosphere since construction was halted in 2009. The resort's future looked bright back when development began in February 2007 on what was supposed to become a sister property to the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. But then, like many construction projects during that time period, The Drew Las Vegas became a victim of the Great Recession, construction ground to a halt, and the resort's future became uncertain.

Things seem to be looking up for this glassy blue hotel gem, however. In 2017, the project was sold to a new investment firm for $600 million and construction has resumed on what is being billed as a "fresh and modern" hotel. The casino and resort is now expected to open in late 2020.

4. Resorts World



Construction at Resorts World in Las Vegas. 

Where it's being built: The Las Vegas Strip

With a $4 billion price tag, the luxurious Resorts World is slated to have everything expected of a Las Vegas Strip casino, including a 3,400-room resort, 30 food and beverage outlets and a 4,000-seat theater. The Asian-themed megaresort will also feature a large and elaborate garden attraction in front of the casino's Strip entrance. 

Resorts World is expected to open in late 2020 or 2021. 

5. Wynn West



Where it's being built: The West Side of The Las Vegas Strip

The Wynn Casino and Resort isn't new, of course (the Wynn opened on the Las Vegas Strip in 2005), but what is new is the Wynn West—the resort's new tower. The tower will be located on the west side of the Strip and will be connected to Wynn via a overpass bridge. 

Wynn West will include 38 acres and 2,000 to 3,000 guest rooms. 


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. We are headquartered in Las Vegas and service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
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			<title>3 Ways Technology is Impacting the Construction Industry</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/3-ways-technology-is-impacting-the-construction-industry</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 25 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			If you're feeling as though your construction company may be falling behind when it comes to adopting the latest in construction technology, you're not alone. One survey found that only 8 percent of construction companies reported to being "cutting edge." What's more, nearly 70 percent felt they were "behind the curve."

Investors are betting big on construction tech

Between 2011 and 2017, investors poured $10 billion into companies focused on the development of new construction technology. Construction tech is a hot investment ticket now, with investors banking that cloud-based collaboration platforms and AR/VR will become essential tools of the construction trade.

Why contractors are hesitant

Though contractors have traditionally been slow to adopt to new technology, they recognize the need for tech and generally approve of the many ways it can increase efficiency. The problem lies in the cost.

According to the 2017 Construction Technology Report (ConTech) by JB Knowledge, 54% of construction companies claim new tech research is not in their budget. The reasons for this involve a lack of financial resources and IT staff. Currently, contractors report to allotting only 1 percent of their annual revenue to IT.

Below we look at three ways technology is changing the construction industry—whether contractors are ready or not.



1. Connected devices are streamlining communication

People have been taking advantage of connected devices (the Internet of Things - iOT) in their home for several years now—programming their thermostats and supervising their nannies remotely from apps on their smart phones.

The construction industry has taken advantage of this useful technology as well, utilizing wearable tech to detect and notify a supervisor when an employee falls, for example, or programing monitoring devices to send automated daily reports directly from the equipment to an operations manger's email inbox. This easy access to data and real-time flow of information has streamlined the communication process between various departments and players in a construction industry, reducing human error and expediting emergency response times.

In an industry where time is money and mistakes can be both costly and life-threatening, these improvements to the communication process have been game-changers.

2. Drones are improving supervision and inspection



Drones can inspect a large project far quicker than a human can, covering a space that might take a human several days to review on foot. This not only reduces inspection time, but it also improves upon it. Drones can fly overhead and inspect areas that may be unreachable for a human, for example. They can also film and collect data on areas of a jobsite that a human may have difficulty reaching safely, like the top of a building or the bottom of deep hole. In this way, drones can help keep workers safe.  

3. Robots are increasing productivity



While in some industries, robots have replaced workers, in the construction industry, robotics systems are largely being designed to work alongside workers—assisting with the heavy lifting (literally) and helping to boost efficiency.

Two examples of these robotic systems are the MULE (Material Unit Lift Enhancer) and the Guardian GT. The MULE helps workers lift and carry material weighing up to 135 pounds while the Guardian GT "essentially turns wearers into a flightless Iron Man," reports Jobsite, allowing its wearer to lift up to 1,000 pounds.

What ways has your company embraced construction tech? What is one piece of construction technology you hope to purchase in the future?  

Join the conversation on Facebook and let us know.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is a premier, independently owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. From our headquarters in Las Vegas, we proudly service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 

 
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			<title>Boating Safety Tips: How to Stay Safe on the Lake This Summer</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/boating-safety-tips</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 01 May 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			It's the beginning of boating season here in Nevada, which means it's time to pack the cooler, slather on the sunscreen and head to the lake. Since many of our customers are boat owners or enjoy fishing and jet-skiing, we thought we'd put together a list of some important safety tips to keep in mind while out on the water.

Below is our round-up of the six most important boating safety tips. 

1. Pack a safety kit

While you can never be too prepared when it comes to boating safety, some items are more crucial to pack than others. At a bare minimum, your boat safety pack should include:


	A waterproof first aid kit
	Duct tape for repairing holes
	A bucket for bailing water
	A flashlight for after-dark emergencies
	Garbage bags for rain protection
	Ropes for securing your boat and equipment. This can also come in handy during a man overboard situation.


2. Wear an engine cut-off switch

It's vital you (or whoever is piloting) wear an engine cut-off switch on your wrist or lifejacket whenever the boat is running. If you're thrown from the boat, the engine will automatically shut off, helping to keep your passengers and fellow boaters safe.

3. Bring lifejackets—It's the law

Lifejackets not only keep you and your passengers safe, but they may also be required by law. If you're boating on Lake Mead, for example, you are required to carry at least one U.S. Coast Guard approved lifejacket per person on board. This includes infants. While only those 12 and under are legally required to wear a lifejacket while aboard, you must still have lifejackets available and in good working condition regardless of whether or not your passengers plan on wearing them. Keep in mind, however, that 84.5 percent of boating fatalities related to drowning occurred when the victim wasn't wearing a lifejacket.

4. Pack a fire extinguisher

This is sometimes overlooked, as it can seem counterintuitive to carry a fire extinguisher when you're surrounded by water. But gas-powered boats can be just as susceptible to fires as any other motorized vehicle. If your boat has an enclosed compartment or if it's over 26 feet in length, you're required by law to have a fire extinguisher on board. Legal requirements aside, however, it's a good idea to pack a fire extinguisher on any fuel-powered vessel.

5. Check engine for fumes

Every time you refuel your boat, you should open the hatches and check for fumes and blocked exhaust outlets. Fumes can accumulate in poorly-ventilated compartments or when your engine is idling, which, if left unresolved, can cause your passengers to fall unconscious. Don't start the engine if you detect any strong gas or chemical odors.

6. Take a boater safety course

If you are new to boating, it may be a good idea to take a boating safety course. Depending on where you live, a boating course may even be legally required. Luckily, several courses are free and a number of them can be taken online.

They include:


	BoatUS Foundation's State-Specific Boating Courses. All of these online classes are free and U.S Coast Guard recognized.
	Boat Ed offers boater safety certification courses online. This can be particularly useful if your state requires you to have a Boater Card.


The US Coast Guard provides a complete list of courses offered both online and in person.

7. Get a boat safety inspection

There's very little reason not to have the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary inspect your boat. First of all, the safety checks are offered free of charge and are done at your convenience. A volunteer safety inspector will even conduct the safety check at your residence. Second of all, you won't be fined or cited if any safety issues are discovered. Finally, the application process is simple; all you have to do is fill out this form.

What to Keep in Mind When Boating on Lake Mead



If you're like many of our customers, you'll likely be spending a portion of your summer enjoying the 290 square miles of waterway that make up Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. Below are a few specific tips to keep you safe.

Avoid the algae—Both Lake Mead and Lake Mohave have green and yellow algae, which can contain toxins that can be harmful to people and animals. If you see algae while boating in Lake Mead, avoid contact. This means no swimming in it and no drinking the water unless its been treated first.

Wear a lifejacket when water skiing—Everyone on Lake Mead or Lake Mohave is required to wear a lifejacket when waterskiing. You're also required to have an observer onboard who can serve as a spotter for the boat operator. Make sure to post a ski flag whenever a skiier is in the water.

Be mindful of the heat—Summer temperatures in Southern Nevada can be life-threatening even to those swimming in the cool lake water. When boating or swimming at Lake Mead, make sure to drink water even when you aren't thirsty. This can help prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned, Las Vegas-based heavy equipment company that sells and rents construction equipment across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, call 1-800-712-4190 24/7 or view our used and new inventory at heavyequipmentrentals.com.

 
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			<title>3 Signs Your Heavy Equipment Needs Repairing (and What to Do About It)</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/signs-heavy-equipment-needs-repairing</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			You know to call your heavy equipment rental company the moment a machine's dashboard warning light comes on. That's a no-brainer. But what about the less obvious signs? How do you know which visual and audio abnormalities are a part of normal equipment wear and tear and which are signs that something potentially more serious is going on?

Below we outline three common signs your machinery needs servicing as well as measures you can take to prevent costly repairs. 

Call your equipment rental company or mechanic immediately if you notice one more of the following signs.

1. Discolored or thick exhaust



Exhaust problems won't just get you in trouble with OSHA, but they'll also put your employees health and safety at risk. If you notice that your machine's exhaust is thick or discolored or if it's accompanied by an unusual smell, take action right away.

Two possible causes of exhaust problems: 


	Dirty or clogged air filters
	Ventilation failure


2. Low fluid levels

Low fluid levels can cause your equipment to wear down and malfunction over time. It's vital that you ensure your equipment is well lubricated, as this is one of the most effective ways you can extend the life of your equipment. If you notice that your fluid levels are low, check for leaks, as this could be a sign that your machine is leaking coolant or hydraulic oils.

Two possible causes of low fluid levels:


	Leaks from hoses
	Blocked or faulty valves


3. Hissing or grinding sounds



Your equipment will often make a lot of noise when in operation, and that can make it difficult to ascertain whether the sounds you're hearing are par for the course or if they are signs your equipment is being overworked, or worse, starting to malfunction. A properly trained operator should, however, be able to tell the difference, which is why it's important operators stay vigilant for any unusual sounds, smells and vibrations. 

Sounds to listen for:


	Hissing—This could be a sign that there is a leak in the vacuum or cooling system.
	Clacking—A clunking or clacking sign could mean a problem with your machine's hydraulic, steering, brake or combustion systems.
	Grinding—This may mean a pump or valve is misaligned. 


Preventative Measures to Take: 

Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance

It probably goes without saying, but the best way to prevent equipment repairs is to have your machinery serviced regularly. 

This should include:


	Checking your fluids, especially during extremes in hot or cold weather (Read: How to Winterize Your Equipment.)
	Checking your belts and hoses
	Testing your vacuum gauge
	Changing air filters


Proper training

Many repairs are a result of mishandling by equipment operators. While mistakes can happen, you can lessen the odds by providing continual training and enforcing equipment safety rules. 


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned construction equipment company in Las Vegas that rents and sells heavy equipment. Blue Diamond Machinery currently services Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, visit www.bluediamondmachinery.com.
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			<title>5 Things to Check Before Buying a Used Bulldozer</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/things-to-check-buying-a-used-bulldozer</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 17 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Whether you call it a bulldozer, a dozer or a crawler tractor, this century-old invention has become a vital tool in the construction, mining and forestry industries, thanks to its versatility, power and mobility.

If you are considering purchasing a used dozer for your business, there are several factors you'll want to consider, including the machine's operation hours, year, price and condition. It is this last factor that is the trickiest to determine, as signs of damage and excessive wear can be covered up and disguised.

Though far from a complete inspection checklist, our list of five things to consider before you purchase a bulldozer offers several key areas you won't want to overlook.

1. Check for plate lines or welding

When inspecting the dozer's blade, it's important to note any plate lines, as a plate line could mean the blade has been refaced in order to cover up excessive wear. Also, check the blade for signs of welding, as this could be a sign that the dozer has undergone repairs.

2. Inspect for excessive wear

Look for signs of damage and wear along the top of the blade, the cutting edge and the spill guard. Check the blade push arms, making sure to inspect the trunnion pins and caps. One sign of excessive wear is a loose trunnion cap.

3. Thoroughly inspect the undercarriage

It's important to set aside extra time to inspect a dozer's undercarriage. Not only can repairs to the undercarriage be costly, but "the undercarriage of a dozer accounts for approximately 20% of the purchase price of the machine," reports ForConstructionPros.com. Uneven wear on the undercarriage can happen when operators favor steering in one director over another or when the dozer has been repeatedly run on a hillside.

How to check for excessive wear on the undercarriage:


	Reach over the rails and touch the tops and bottoms of the bushings. If the dozer is in top condition, the bearings should be round. If the bearings feel flattened in areas, this could be a sign of excessive wear.
	Note thickness of the track pads. If the grouser bar has been worn down to the point that it appears to be the same height as the pad bolts, then the track pads will need to be replaced.




4. Note any attachments and tech upgrades

Rear attachments, such as a single-shank or multi-shank ripper or auxiliary hydraulics, can make a machine more valuable. Double check that they are in good condition and also inquire about any productivity and safety features that can add value to a machine, such as a mounted camera system, GPS or inclination monitor.

5. Examine the hydraulic system and engine

In addition to checking fluids and inspecting for damage, you should look for signs of leakage and check for lose belts and dirty filters.


Looking to purchase a dozer? We can help.

At Blue Diamond Machinery, we sell a range of new and used construction equipment, including dozers. We invite you to browse our inventory listings. If you don't find something you're looking for, feel free to give us at a call at  1-800-712-4190.



 
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			<title>Why Many Young People Don’t Want Careers in Construction (And What We Can Do About It)</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/young-people-construction</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 23 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			70 percent of construction companies are struggling to fill job openings, reports Autodesk and the Associated General Contractors of America. Young people, it would seem, are not pursuing careers in the construction industry at the same rate they did in previous generations, which has lead to a shortage of skilled laborers. And it's not just in the construction industry, either. As Baby Boomers continue to retire, the trades in general have struggled to find suitable replacements.

This has some industry leaders perplexed, as the construction industry seemingly has a lot to offer young people, including job security, high salaries and attractive benefit packages. So why have 18-to-35-year-olds largely turned their backs on the idea of becoming foreman, mechanics and forklift operators?

Below are a few popular theories.

Millennials don't realize construction pays well




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by 🇺🇸Young Blood Worker⚒ (@youngbloodworker) on Apr 8, 2019 at 3:48am PDT




Construction jobs often pay better than positions that require a Bachelor's Degree. According to the Department of Labor, for example, the average carpenter earns a salary of $90,000 a year.

While this may be common knowledge to those working in the field, it's not apparent to many young people. This is at least according to the results of a recent poll, which found that only 11 percent of people aged 18 to 24 believe that going to trade school can lead to a high-paying job.

There's a stigma attached to "manual labor jobs"




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by 🇺🇸Young Blood Worker⚒ (@youngbloodworker) on Sep 14, 2017 at 4:21am PDT




Millennials were raised hearing from parents and well-meaning educators that the key to success is to "follow your passion" and "love what you do and you'll never work a day in your life." While neither of those messages are necessarily wrong, their unintended consequence was a shift in values, says Construct-Ed.

Where previously, values such as "earning an honest living" and job satisfaction were considered adequate expectations of a profession, they have since been replaced with the ideals of finding a job that challenges the mind and excites the spirt.

This outlook has posed a perception problem for the construction industry. Because while construction can be mentally stimulating, it's also hard work. Pouring concrete in 100-degree weather isn't fun. And operating an excavator 12 hours a day isn't always exciting. But many a construction worker report their work to be full-filling. In fact, according to a survey of over 30,000 employees, construction workers are among the happiest.

Young people think college is the only option




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by 🇺🇸Young Blood Worker⚒ (@youngbloodworker) on Apr 5, 2019 at 7:30am PDT




Kids have been steered toward the college track since the 1980s, regardless of interest or aptitude. A child may be talented at building or may have a fascination with tinkering with car engines, but instead of educators and parents fostering those interests, those same children are encouraged to put down the legos and pick up the SAT prep book.

"Go to college or else you'll end up like that guy," kids are told. But as Construct-Ed points out, "that guy" could be making $80,000 a year doing what he loves (working outside) while the college grad is stuck at a desk earning far less.

Young people need to be taught that the university-to-white-collar-job career path isn't their only option—or even necessarily their best one.

What the construction industry can do about it:



Image statistic source: Build Your Future (BYF) and the National Center for Construction Education  and .

Like it or not, the fact remains that by 2020, millennials will make up 40% of the workforce. The construction industry will need to attract more millennial employees if they hope to survive. This may involve adopting a new approach.

Recognize that money isn't young people's only concern

It's been widely reported that Generation Y and Generation Z aren't just looking for a career, they're looking for a calling. They want to feel like the work they're doing aligns with their passions and goals. They also want to feel as though their values and their employers' values align.

While a decent salary is important, making a positive impact on the planet and community is just as important as any six-figure salary. Or as one Forbes.com writer put it, "Millennials don't want jobs. They want lives."  

Is this view idealistic? Perhaps. Is it likely to go away any time soon? Probably not. As employers, we have to realize that upping salary ranges isn't the only answer. We may be offering some of the highest-paying jobs in the country, but that alone won't be enough to attract—and keep—the next generation of workers. The way we can usher in more millennials into our field is by building a strong company culture and modeling our company values off the values that younger generations hold dear.  

Work to educate future candidates and bust the myths

Construct-Ed suggests highlighting success stories and emphasizing the large amount of entrepreneurship opportunities in the trades. A lot of media attention is given to tech entrepreneurs, for example, which has lead many a high school and college student to believe they have to invent something or launch a tech startup to become a successful business owner. The thought of starting a commercial cleaning business or home security company may never cross their minds, which is a shame, because "blue collar businesses" are frequently some of the most successful.  

Other misconceptions that millennials may have is that they'll "hate working construction" and that "construction is for people who can't get into college." The reality is that there's more variety to construction work than many may assume and that a career in construction requires both intelligence and a great deal of skill.

As representatives of the industry, it is our responsibility to educate young people on the fact-based pros and cons of construction work. And that should start with the young people themselves. Together, Gen Y and Z can "make construction cool," just as they've done with other hands-on professions, like craft brewing and furniture-making.

Luckily, there's reason to have hope. If articles like this are any indication, change is already on the horizon.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned construction equipment company in Las Vegas that rents and sells heavy equipment. Roughly a quarter of all the employees at Blue Diamond Machinery are Generation Y or Z. To learn more, visit www.bluediamondmachinery.com.
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			<title>10 Tips for Preventing Uneven Wear on Heavy Equipment</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/preventing-uneven-wear-on-heavy-equipment-undercarriages</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 May 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			The undercarriage is one of the most important components of any piece of heavy equipment. It's also often the most costly to repair or replace. Case in point: While an undercarriage comprises about 20 percent of a machine's upfront costs, it's generally responsible for 50 percent of its repair bills. That's why it's important to take steps to prevent undercarriage damage, especially damage that's avoidable. This includes uneven wear.

While uneven wear is common, small behavioral changes can go a long way in preventing it. What's more, if caught early, uneven wear can even be corrected.

Let's look at a few of the common causes of uneven wear as well as the steps an operator can take to stop it from occurring.



The Don'ts:


	Don't operate a machine in only one direction when working on a slope or hill, as this can add extra stress to rollers, idlers and guide lugs. Instead, switch directions so that the downhill track doesn't wear out quicker than the uphill track. When moving over a hillside, steer the machine straight and not at an angle.
	Don't turn in the same direction every time. This also causes uneven wear.
	Don't make abrupt turns. This causes stress on the undercarriage, which shortens the life of the machine. Also, try to make turns on even ground whenever possible. Minimize the turns you make on a slope.
	Don't speed, especially in reverse. Higher speeds result in accelerated wear.


The Dos:



It's important to keep your machine's undercarriage clear of any dirt and debris.


	Do make wide turns. Pivot turns cause machines to wear faster.
	Do alternate your right and left turns. This prevents asymmetrical wear.
	Do keep the undercarriage clean, taking time to clear out dirt and debris at the end of every work day. This is especially important in winter, when mud and debris can freeze, causing the guiding to become loose and the rollers to seize up.


Other Considerations:


	Choose the right tracks—Different jobs require different tracks. Check with your local dealer or a heavy equipment specialist before purchasing or renting a machine if you are unsure what your project will require. XL, for example, works well in rocky jobsites or areas with hard surfaces. A dealer can visit your jobsite and offer a recommendation.
	Maintain the roller frames, equalizer bars and pivot shafts—Poor maintenance of these components can alter the alignment, which can lead to accelerated wear.
	Make regular inspections of the equipment—An inspector will measure undercarriage wear and offer a recommendation for which parts need to be replaced and when. At Blue Diamond Machinery, we offer this service free of charge for all our rental customers.


If you are a Blue Diamond Machinery customer and have questions about your rental equipment, give us a call. One of our equipment technicians would be happy to help.

We hope you found these tips useful. If you have any to add, find us on Facebook and leave a comment. We'd love to hear from you.

 




About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned, Las Vegas-based heavy equipment company that sells and rents construction equipment across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more, call 1-800-712-4190 24/7 or view our used and new inventory at heavyequipmentrentals.com.
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			<title>9 Myths about Construction Work Dispelled</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/construction-work-myths</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 10 May 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Every industry has its stereotypes and misconceptions. But few have been more damaging to an industry than the common myths surrounding a career in construction. This is according to the results of a 2019 survey of contractors, which suggested a possible cause for the construction labor shortage lies with the persistent stereotype that construction work is "dirty" or requires significant upper body strength. Even the phrase "career in construction," was problematic, as 52% of contractors indicated that potential job applicants saw construction work as merely a  job and not a viable career option.  

Below we take a deep dive into these stereotypes in an effort to dispel the myths and shed some insight into the realities of what a career in construction can look like long term.

Myth 1: A career in construction is only for people who aren't "book smart."

The reality: While many positions in the field of construction don't require a college degree, almost all require continual training. Workers must regularly take tests and recertifications in order to stay up-to-date on regulations and the latest in equipment advancements.  

What's more, a number of positions in the field—such as engineer or architect—require a great degree of high-level thinking and analysis. Numerous entrepreneurship opportunities exist as well.

Myth 2: Construction work requires hard physical labor.

The reality: There are numerous positions in the construction field that require little or no physical labor. Plus, robotics systems and machines have stepped in to do much of the heavy lifting—literally—making the need for brute human strength less with each passing year.  

Myth 3: Construction work is for people who don't have other career options.

The reality: People are drawn to the construction industry for a variety of reasons. Some love the idea of working with their hands or working outdoors. Others love the technology or simply get a lot of satisfaction from being able to see and touch the efforts of their hard work. Whatever their reasons, most people who work construction do it because they enjoy it, not because they couldn't find work in other fields.

Several of the world's most successful people got their start in construction and other sectors of the trades industry. Arnold Schwarzenegger owned his own construction business, for example, and Whoopi Goldberg was a bricklayer who helped build the wall around the San Diego Zoo. Even James Bond himself, Sean Connery, once held a job in construction.

Construction is far from a last option career, as it has a lot to offer potential applicants, including an above-average salary, job security and weekends and holidays off.

Myth 4: Construction jobs don't pay well.

The reality: Nothing could be further from the truth. The median salary for construction project managers is $82,790. Equipment operators earn a median pay of $46,900 and inspectors earn $59,700. Even those at the entry level end of the spectrum—those tasked with cleaning debris or digging trenches, for example—earn a median salary of $33,430. This is a decent living, especially considering that many of the positions in the industry only require a high school diploma and some don't require any formal education credential at all.

What's more, construction industry wage growth is the highest in the country—wages are expected to increase by 4.5 percent in the next few years.

Myth 5: Construction isn't an option for women.

The reality: In 2018, women made up 9 percent of the construction workforce. This number may be small, but it's expected to grow as the construction industry continues to expand and the need for quality workers increases. It's predicted that by 2020, women will make up 25% of the construction workforce. Women work in a variety of roles in the industry—with 45% working in sales and office roles and 31% working in management positions.

Myth 6: Construction work isn't for people who have 4-year degrees.

The reality: Just like any other organization, construction companies require a wide variety of workers, including accountants, marketers and human resource managers. All of these positions require four-year degrees.

Having a college degree doesn't exclude a person from working in the operations side of the business either. College-educated individuals opt to work in the field because of the many incentives and benefits the industry provides.

Myth 7: The construction industry is dying.

The reality: Construction in the US isn't on the decline. In fact, the truth is quite the opposite—The construction industry is booming. It's the fastest growing industry in the nation, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Myth 8: Construction is dangerous.

The reality: Construction work can come with a degree of risk, but it isn't inherently dangerous. The US Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that fatal work injuries have been on the decline since 2006. Technology has made the industry safer than ever before.

Myth 9: Construction work is easy and boring.

The reality: Despite the stereotype, not everyone who works in the construction industry shovels dirt. There's a lot of variety in the construction field, and much of it is not boring and little of it is easy. But even the jobs that many think of as traditional "construction work," such as brick laying or scaffolding, require a number of advanced skills. Working in the field requires creative problem solving as well as the ability to make quick decisions and work well under pressure.

Know of a myth we didn't include? Visit us on Facebook and let us know.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. We are headquartered in Las Vegas and service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
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			<title>9 Vital Questions to Ask When Renting Heavy Equipment</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/questions-renting-heavy-equipment</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 29 May 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			You've weighed the pros and cons of renting versus buying heavy equipment and you've made the decision to rent. That's great. But before you sign any paperwork with a heavy equipment rental company, it's important to be informed of all the fine print of a rental agreement to ensure you aren't hit with surprise fees or unexpected contract requirements down the line.

At Blue Diamond Machinery, our rental coordinators make sure each customer understands all the facts of the agreement upfront. They also take the time to carefully review each customer's specific needs in order to ensure they receive the right machine for the job. Not all equipment rental companies are as meticulous as we are, however, so we recommend construction companies take the time to ask the important questions.

1. What machines should I rent?

Even if you think you know the precise model of machine your job requires, it's always a good idea to double check with the heavy equipment rental manager. They may be aware of size and operation details that you aren't—details that could end up saving you money. The manager could, for example, recommend a smaller or less expensive machine than the one you'd thought you needed.

2. Will I need insurance?

You're required by law to have insurance coverage if you or a member of your staff wish to operate heavy machinery. Some rental companies will provide the insurance while others require the customer to provide proof of insurance coverage before an agreement is signed.

Blue Diamond Machinery requires customers to provide General Liability insurance.

3. How will the machine be transported to my site?

While you may have the trucks and manpower to transport the equipment to and from your jobsite yourself, you should enquire into having your heavy equipment rental company do it for you. This is a service that most equipment companies provide, and it will likely save you time and money.

At Blue Diamond Machinery, we have delivery trucks and professional drivers on staff. We also have partnerships with several transport companies.



4. Who is responsible for equipment maintenance?

If you plan on renting equipment for longer than a week, you'll want to enquire about maintenance. Most equipment will need daily preventative maintenance in order to avoid machine downtime and repairs. Some heavy equipment rental companies prefer to take full ownership of all maintenance while others ask customers to perform the basic daily maintenance procedures themselves. You'll want to get a clear idea of the expectations in this matter so that you don't get stuck with a costly repair bill.

At Blue Diamond Machinery, we handle all of the regular, scheduled maintenance, but ask that our customers oversee the basic day-to-day maintenance, such as greasing and lubrication. We also ask that they conduct daily inspections of the equipment so that they can let us know immediately if anything needs to be serviced or repaired (Read: 3 Signs Your Heavy Equipment Needs Repairing (and What to Do About It). We will have a technician come to conduct a more thorough inspection if the situation warrants it.

5. What is the response time if the equipment malfunctions?

Even well-maintained machines break down, so it's important to know what your rental company's policy is when it comes to fixing (and covering the costs) of repairs. You'll want to make sure your equipment company will be able to send a mechanic out to your jobsite immediately should the need arise. You'll also want to ask if the rental company has access to replacement machines in case the one you've rented needs long-term repair work.

6. Which repairs are covered?­­­

Most construction equipment is built to handle tough terrain, but that doesn't mean that the machines are immune to damage. Damage that results from overuse or mishandling may not be covered in your rental agreement. You'll want to pinpoint which types of repairs aren't covered before you sign any paperwork. Damage to an undercarriage, for example, can be costly to repair.

If you plan on operating equipment on a steep hillside or in rocky, muddy, wet or snowy conditions, be sure to let the rental manager know ahead of time so that he or she can verify the equipment you're renting is equipped to handle the job.  

7. Is someone available after hours?

You'll want to confirm the heavy rental equipment company can give you an emergency number to call should your equipment malfunction outside of normal business hours. This is particularly important if your job requires early morning or late-night work, as most heavy equipment rental companies are only open between 7am and 5pm.

We're available 24/7 at Blue Diamond Machinery, should you have an emergency or need a question answered.

8. When will I be billed?

Some equipment companies bill weekly and some bill monthly. You'll want to make a note of when you can expect to be invoiced so that your company isn't scrambling to make payments at the last minute.

At Blue Diamond Machinery, we bill on a 28-day cycle.

9. What is your return policy?

It's likely that if you've asked all the questions above, you won't need to return your equipment. But occasionally the unexpected happens or you learn later that the equipment simply won't fit your needs. Ask your rental company about their return policy so that you're prepared to cover any related return costs.


Blue Diamond Machinery does not charge a fee for ending a rental contract early. If you need to return a machine sooner than expected, just call. We'll arrange the transport.


At Blue Diamond Machinery, we rent and sell a range of construction equipment, including excavators dozers, motor graders and forklifts. We invite you to browse our rental inventory listings. If you don't find something you're looking for, feel free to give us at a call at  1-800-712-4190.
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			<title>The 7 Types of Excavators: Which One Should You Choose?</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/types-of-excavators</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 06 Jun 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Whether you're planning on renting or purchasing an excavator, it's important that you go into the shopping process with an understanding of the various types of excavators, their capabilities and their shortcomings.

Excavators are earthmoving vehicles easily identifiable by their arm, bucket, rotating cab and moveable tracks. The biggest differentiating factor between the various models is their size, as size often correlates with range of mobility and lift and dig capacity. Caterpillar's smallest mini-excavator, for instance, weighs just 2,070 pounds and has 13 hp whereas their largest is the CAT 6090, which weighs a record-breaking 2,160,501 pounds and has 4,500 hp. 

The type of excavator you'll need will vary depending on the working conditions and requirements of the job. Will you be needing to dig in the ocean? A dragline excavator or long reach excavator may be your best choice. Will you be working on hilly terrain? Then your best choice may be a crawler.

Below we outline seven different types of excavators and their various uses.

1. Crawler Excavators



Use for: Mining, landscape grading and trench digging.

Pros: Good for uneven terrain.

Cons: It's slower than a wheeled excavator.

The crawler excavator (also referred to as the standard excavator) is called a crawler because it runs on two rotating tracks instead of wheels—in much the same way a tank does. The crawler uses hydraulic power and although it's slower than a wheeled excavator, its tracked chassis makes it more stable. This is what makes the crawler excavator a good choice for steep, rough or muddy landscapes—The chain wheel system allows it to balance better on uneven terrain.

2. Wheeled Excavators



Use for: Jobs on flat/hard surfaces.

Pros: It's fast and easy to move on concrete.

Cons: It won't work well in muddy or hilly terrain.

The wheeled excavator is like the crawler (standard) excavator, but, like the name suggests, it has wheels instead of tracks. Because the wheeled excavator has less traction than the standard, it's best used on asphalt or concrete.

While the wheeled excavator is not suited for sites with soft soil or hills and slopes,  it's faster than a crawler when operated on a smooth, hard surface. It's also easier to maneuver.

3. Suction Excavators



Use for: Fragile digging jobs, debris cleanup and underground projects.

Pros: Lessens the chance of damaging the surrounding area or underground utilities.

Cons: The suction pipe is usually only 30 centimeters (one foot) or less in diameter, making it not applicable for large-scale projects.

Also called vacuum excavators, suction excavators include a suction pipe that functions as a high pressure-vacuum. Working in tandem with a built-in water jet, the suction system sucks up soil and debris fast - at speeds of 200 miles per hour.

Construction companies often utilize suction excavators for jobs that require careful and precise excavating, as a suction excavator can cut the chance of area damage in half.

4. Long Reach Excavators



Use for: Hard-to-reach areas.

Pros: It has a long extendable arm, which makes it easier to excavate from a safe distance.

Cons: The long arm makes it impossible to excavate in tight spaces.

Like the name suggests, the long reach excavator has a lengthy arm and boom. The long reach excavator's extendable arm has a range of 40 to 100 feet, making it possible to reach construction zones that are over 100 feet away horizontally.

This type of excavator is made for jobs where the terrain or construction site prevents the machine and operator from getting too close, such as demolition projects that are over a river or lake.

5. Hydraulic Shovels



Use for: Mining and heavy digging projects.

Pros: It has a powerful engine and large bucket capacity.

Cons: It's larger than necessary for many jobs.

Also called power shovels, the hydraulic shovel is the most powerful type of excavator. While it's most commonly used for mining projects, the hydraulic shovel is suited to handle any job that requires heavy lifting and hauling of large rocks, minerals and other heavy objects or materials.

6. Dragline Excavators



Use for: Deep pile driving, harbor construction, surface mining, deep excavation, road excavator and under-water operations.

Pros: Dragline excavators have a digging depth of 65 meters (213 feet) or more.

Cons: Its large size and inflexible system make it only useable for specific jobs.

The dragline excavator is larger than the standard. More importantly, it operates differently. The dragline uses a hoist rope system and a dragline to raise and lower the bucket and drag it toward the driver.

This hoist/dragline system make this excavator ideal for excavating underwater.

7. Skid Steers



Use for: Site clearing, debris removal and pool clearing.

Pros: Its small size makes it ideal for narrow areas or job sites with limited space.

Cons: Because a skid steer is on wheels instead of a track, it may not perform well on uneven or muddy, sandy or snowy terrain.

The biggest difference between a skid steer and a standard excavator is that with a skid steer, the boom and bucket faces away from the driver.

Skid steers are frequently used for small projects and residential work.

Excavator Attachments and Parts 



Excavators can be altered to suit the needs of a particular job by switching out the attachments. Some of the common hydraulic attachments are: buckets, augers, breakers, thumbs and couplers.
Below is an explanation of each.

Bucket

Buckets are the most common excavator attachment. Their steel body and teeth-like edges make them ideal for digging and scooping. The most common type of buckets are the ones used for grading stones (the ditching bucket) and the ones used for digging trenches (the trenching bucket). When deciding which type of bucket to purchase or rent, it's important to consider the soil condition and what accessories you may need, like couplers, for instance.

Auger



Augers are an attachment used to drill into the ground. Powered by hydraulic circuits, they are fast and efficient at digging deep holes. Augers range in size between 4 inches to 50 inches in length and can dig up to 32 feet.

Breaker



Breakers are like a larger version of a jackhammer and are ideal for hammering through stone, rocks and concrete.

Thumb

Thumbs work well for items that are too large for a bucket—like a tree stump or slab of concrete, for example. They're easy to attach and detach.

Couplers



Couplers make it easier and faster to swap out attachments. If a job requires frequent attachment changes, a coupler can help to save time, money and manpower.

The Difference between an Excavator and a Backhoe



Other than size, the biggest differences between an excavator and a backhoe is the rotation capability. Excavators can rotate a full 360 degrees whereas backhoes (diggers) can only rotate 200 degrees (left and right).

Generally speaking, excavators are used for robust, substantial jobs and backhoes are used for jobs requiring light to medium work.

The Difference between a Standard Excavator and a Mini Excavator



Size—The mini excavator (also called the compact excavator) is smaller than the standard excavator.

Control—The mini excavator also has a reduced tail-swing or even a zero tail-swing, which makes it easier to make tight turns and maneuver in small, cramped or narrow job sites, like parking lots, for instance.

Undercarriage—Compact excavators have a narrower undercarriage that can frequently be further compacted when the operator needs to move the excavator through tight spaces, like doorways or gates.

Weight—A mini excavator weighs less than a standard excavator, which makes it easier to transport between sites. A mini excavator also requires less fuel.

When to Use a Mini Excavator:

It's crucial to use a mini excavator whenever there's a remote possibility an excavator may hit a wall, car, machine or other obstacle, as this can not only damage the obstacle but also the excavator itself.

Information You'll Need to Know Before You Choose an Excavator:



The following is a list of information you'll want to have on hand when you call your equipment rental or sales company in order to ensure you have the right excavator for the job.

Machine size—The excavator size you'll need will depend on the weight of the materials you'll be lifting. A mini (or compact) excavator can handle up to six metric tons (or 13,227 pounds). A mid-sized excavator handles 6-10 metric tons (or 22,046 pounds) and the standard (or full-size) excavator is equipped to lift up to 10 - 90 metric tons (or 22,046 - 198,416 pounds).  

Conditions of your jobsite—Is your jobsite a flat, empty landscape? Or is it an urban area with a lot of buildings and other obstacles? The terrain will determine which type of machine and attachments you'll need to complete the job efficiently and safely.

Weight—You'll want to know the excavator's maximum operating weight. The last thing you want is an excavator that's too heavy, as this could damage your site.

Bucket capacity, digging depth and reach—Different buckets can handle different weights. You'll want to make sure the excavator you choose can handle the size of bucket your job requires. Your digging depth and length requirements will help determine excavator size and attachment type.

Storage availability—The last item on this list mainly applies if you're purchasing an excavator. Depending on where your company is located, you may need an indoor storage facility to house the excavator during frigid, stormy or excessively rainy weather. 

Should you buy or rent an excavator? Two things to consider:

We've written about this thoroughly in our guide, Renting vs Buying Heavy Machinery: Which Should You Choose?, but here are two of the more important factors to consider.

Current financial situation—When purchasing an excavator, you'll either need a sizeable amount of cash or decent credit that you can use to secure a loan. Keep in mind that while a purchase may require a larger upfront cost, it could save you money over time, especially if you plan on using the machine frequently. Rental fees can add up fast.

Job frequency - How often will you require the machine? Run the numbers to see which options works best for your business, but the general rule of thumb is this: If you use the machine more than 65% of the time then you should buy. If you use it less than 65% (or less than eight months in a year), then you should rent.

Other factors to consider when deciding whether to rent or buy are the possible tax advantages of buying as well as the potential return on investment - You can always sell the excavator when you're finished in order to recoup your costs.

Rent, Buy or Sell—Blue Diamond Machinery Can Help

Blue Diamond Machinery offers a variety of name-brand construction and landscaping equipment at affordable prices, servicing commercial construction companies across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. Whether you're looking to rent, buy or even sell, our growing team has over 65 years in the construction industry, and can use that expertise to help meet your heavy equipment needs. Our company motto is: "Giving our best for your success."

View our Equipment for Rent.

View our Equipment for Sale.

Request a Quote.  
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			<title>5 Las Vegas Sports Stadium Construction Projects Underway in 2019</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/new-vegas-sports-stadiums</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 14 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			While pro sports in Vegas may seem like a recent phenomenon, it's been an inevitability that Las Vegas has been anticipating for quite some time. The Vegas Valley is currently home to over 20 sports complexes, including the 20,000-capacity T-Mobile Arena and the recently completed Las Vegas Ballpark in Summerlin. All of this development has lead some to wonder: How many sports arenas does one city need? Just last week, commissioner Justin Jones told News Channel 3 that "I do have some concerns about overpopulating the strip with arenas."

Nevertheless, sports franchises and developers are excited about Las Vegas' potential to become the next big sports town, thanks in no small part to the dramatic success of the Las Vegas Golden Knights—the city's first professional sports team. As a result, plans are underway for several new stadiums, including two state-of-the-art venues on the Strip.

Below is a sneak peek at the facilities and their expected completion dates.

1. MSG Sphere Arena




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 




Where: Adjacent to the Venetian

If the renderings of the MSG Sphere look impressive, the project's details are even more so. The futuristic-looking stadium will feature a 360-degree IMAX display, seating for 18,000 and even space for bars, retail and a museum. Each of the 18,000 seats will have high speed internet access and in keeping with the 360-degree theme, the arena's audio system will filter through the stadium's flooring.

Construction began in 2018 through a partnership between Las Vegas Sands Corporation and The Madison Square Garden Company. The project is expected to be completed in 2021.

2. Las Vegas Stadium




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Las Vegas Raiders Stadium (@lasvegasraidersstadium) on Jul 11, 2019 at 6:09pm PDT




Where: Just of Interstate 15, across from Mandalay Bay

As anyone who lives in Las Vegas is undoubtedly aware, the Raiders are coming! Construction on the $1.8 billion stadium began in 2017 and as of May 2019, was reported to be 47% complete.

Once finished, the 10-level domed stadium will include retractable windows, a clear, sunroof-like ceiling and a retractable, natural grass field. Stadium seating will be able to accommodate up to 65,000 people.

Construction is expected to be finished in time for the 2020 NFL season.

3. Major League Soccer Stadium in Downtown Las Vegas



Where: The Downtown Cashman Center site

While plans for an MLS stadium are still in the negotiation phase, on June 5, 2019, Las Vegas city council members unanimously gave the go ahead for planning to begin on a Downtown Las Vegas sports complex.

If talks with developers are successful, the current site that houses Cashman Field would be remodeled to become a 25,000-seat soccer stadium that would also feature office, retail and residential spaces.

The timing for this is perfect—and that's no coincidence. At the time of writing, Major League Soccer is looking to expand into a new city, and soccer fans in Las Vegas are hoping a new stadium will be enough to entice the league to come to Southern Nevada. The city's current minor league soccer team, The Las Vegas Lights, have successfully made a name for themselves, with each of their games drawing in about 7,600 attendees—the fifth best turnout in the United Soccer League.

4. All Net Resort and Arena




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by ✨Las Vegas Living - Est. 1963✨ (@lasvegasrealestate_paulendy3) on Jun 10, 2019 at 7:28am PDTWhere: The Las Vegas Strip, next to the SLS Las Vegas (where the Wet 'n Wild used to be).




Construction on the All Net Resort and Arena began in 2014, but then later stalled. Rumors circled that the arena project had scrapped, but according to reports in early June of 2019, funding has now been secured and development plans are back underway.

"…We're gonna start construction as soon as possible," said Jackie Robinson, All Net's chairman and president. Once this happens, the project is expected to take three years to finish.

The complex will not only feature a multi-purpose indoor arena, but also a retail and restaurant space.

5. Henderson Ice Rink


Here's a much better photo of the Golden Knights future ice rink in Henderson.

It will include 2 NHL regulation-size ice rinks, retail space, a full-service restaurant overlooking the ice and Water Street, and approximately 5,000 square feet of meeting space. #VegasBorn pic.twitter.com/KcrBuwydp2
— Jesse Granger (@JesseGranger_) May 22, 2019


Where: Downtown Henderson (Water Street) 

Ice hockey will no longer be strictly a Las Vegas sport—the city of Henderson wants in on the action, too. Construction on a new hockey facility began on June 3 on the site of the current Henderson Convention Center. Although the facility has been tentatively named "Vegas Golden Knights at Henderson," the Knights will continue to practice at City National Arena in Summerlin.

The two, NHL-sized rinks will cost $25 million to complete. The facility is expected to be finished in July 2020.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. We are headquartered in Las Vegas and service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more.
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			<title>Mineral Exploration Spending in Nevada Mines is up by 31%</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/spending-mines-in-nevada</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jul 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Nevada mines are on track to have another profitable year. That is, if a new survey from the Nevada Bureau of Mines is any indication. The survey found that Nevada mining companies spent $460.1 million probing for minerals and energy sources in 2018. That is a 31% increase since 2017, when the Nevada mining industry spent $351.2 million.

This is promising news considering that the mining industry had previously been on a "five-year downward cycle," according to Richard Perry, State Division of Minerals administrator.

"It's a really good news story," he told the Elko Daily Free Press. The survey queried 172 companies with projects in Nevada and found that 81 percent of them plan on devoting the same amount of financial resources to exploration again this year. 

Other interesting results from the study:


	Nevada's mining exploration spending made up 54% of the total US exploration spending in 2018.
	Exploration spending is up 20% globally, which makes Nevada's 31% increase all the more significant.
	The breakdown of spending in 2018 was as follows: 77% for precious metals, 15.1% for base metals, 5.1% for energy metals (lithium, vanadium, etc.) and 2.7% for geothermal resources.


Read about the survey in detail in the Elko Daily Free Press.


Blue Diamond Machinery provides heavy equipment rentals and sales to construction and mining industries across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more about the equipment we have available for rent, visit our mining equipment page or call us 24/7 at 1-800-712-4190. For a complete listing of all of our rental equipment, visit our rental inventory page.
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			<title>5 Ways Construction Companies Have Been Navigating the Labor Shortage</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/construction-labor-shortage</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			As anyone who has worked in the trades over the last few years well knows, the construction industry took a big hit during the Great Recession. Between 2006 and 2011, the construction industry lost 40% of its workforce—That's 2.3 million workers. Though the economy has since recovered and construction is booming throughout much of the US, the industry has found itself facing a new problem: It doesn't have enough workers.

The Bureau of Labor Statistic reports that six out of every 10 construction workers who lost their jobs during the recession found work in other industries and have not yet returned. Add in the fact that millennials have largely turned their back on the trades, and you have a serious problem with no immediate solution.

Unfortunately, the problem has only continued to worsen. Builders reported worker shortages being as high as 56% in 2016, which is up from a 21% estimate in 2012.

As a result of the shortage, construction companies have had to get creative. From running a leaner operation to outside-the-box recruitment strategies, the following is a look at five innovative ways construction companies are navigating a world where there simply isn't enough hired help.



1. Making do with less

One of the biggest ways construction companies have survived the labor shortage is by undergoing a complete overhaul of their operations process. In an effort to maximize efficiency and run the leanest operation possible, company leaders have had to rethink each part of their process, asking themselves at each step: How can we further streamline this? The last few years have made managers experts at trimming the fat. And that has included saying no to jobs that don't maximize their bottom line and relying on software, robotics and other technology to fill in the gaps whenever possible.

2. Training novices




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by 🇺🇸Young Blood Worker⚒ (@youngbloodworker) on Feb 18, 2019 at 3:56am PST





In the face of a lack of experienced or skilled workers, many companies have begun hiring inexperienced workers and then training and certifying them on the job. Others have even paid new-hires to attend vocational schools. 

3. Hiring outside of the state or region

Companies in cities or areas where the work is booming have started recruiting from areas that are less busy. They're now either paying workers to commute or are offering to cover their relocation expenses. Recruiters have also utilized their network—providing referral incentives and asking distributors and vendors for candidate suggestions.

4. Increasing salaries

In 2017, the median salary for a construction worker in the US was $34,530, but some states, like Illinois, Massachusetts, Hawaii and New Jersey have averages that are much higher, according to the US News and World Report.

Companies in Chicago, for instance, pay construction workers a mean salary of $63,250 and Honolulu pays a mean of $58,500. While pay increases alone won't solve the worker shortage, companies have reported it has helped draw workers from other industries who would not have otherwise considered a career in construction.

5. Looking to nontraditional workers




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Michelle hands (@thisisamansworlduk) on Jul 12, 2019 at 4:04am PDT




The labor shortage has caused many construction companies to look beyond the obvious recruit and reach out to young, inexperienced workers or even the formally incarcerated. They've also partnered with nonprofits like Helmets to Hardhats to hire veterans and they're working with foster child advocacy agencies to match foster children about to age out of the system with jobs in the industry. Companies have also looked to recruiting more women to help fill the gaps as well.

The Bottom Line: The labor shortage isn't just a problem facing the construction trade, but all the trades in general. While creative problem-solving can work in the short term, many in the trades agree that the best long-term fix to the labor shortage crisis is promoting vocation training and job preparedness programs.

Sources: Giatec, US News, Construction Executive, Construction Dive.

 


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned construction equipment company in Las Vegas that rents and sells heavy equipment. Visit us at heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more.

 
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			<title>8 Important Construction Injury Statistics Every Contractor Should Know</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/construction-injury-statistics</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			While the construction industry has become significantly safer in recent decades, it still remains one of the most dangerous fields to be employed. 20 percent of all workplace fatalities occur in the construction workplace.

It is therefore vital that contractors take every opportunity to ensure that job safety remains a top priority. Because not only can an investment in health and safety programs save companies money, but it can also increase worker productivity and more importantly, save employee lives.

Here are eight construction statistics that underline the importance of construction job safety.

1. Small construction companies are more prone to fatal accidents.

Smaller companies may sometimes lack the resources to provide adequate training and strictly enforce safety precautions. Perhaps this is why nearly 50% of all construction fatalities occur in companies with 10 or fewer employees or with those who are self-employed.

2. The majority of all construction worker deaths are caused by just four types of accidents.

59.9 percent of private sector construction worker fatalities can be attributed to just four causes: Falls, being hit with an object (such as a piece of heavy equipment), electrocution and being caught in or pinned between two objects.



3. A worker is more likely to die from a fall if he works in the construction industry.

Fifty-one percent of all deadly falls that occur in the workplace occur in the field of construction. While this is not surprising considering the volume of workers who spend their work days balancing on scaffolding or climbing in and out of massive machinery, it's still a good reminder that fall prevention trainings should be a major focus of any construction company's safety program.

4. Construction workers have a 1 in 200 chance of dying due to a work-related injury.

Construction workers who work in the field for an average of 45 years will have a 1 in 200 chance of dying in a work-related accident. This stat acts as a good reminder that danger doesn't take a day off—and neither should safety inspections. Workers must remain vigilant at all times.

5. A construction worker has a 10% chance of being injured on the job at some point this year.

Fatalities are tragic but they remain relatively rare. What's more common, however, is the litany of non-fatal injuries that occur on construction sites on a daily basis. Non-fatal injuries occur on construction sites at a rate that is 71% higher than it is in other industries. One in every 10 construction workers suffers from an accident annually.

6. Hospital bills aren't the only costly expense.

It goes without saying that workman's comp claims can be expensive for companies. One fatal accident costs a construction company an average of $991,027 in hospital bills. But hospital bills are just one of the many expenses associated with on-the-job injuries. Injuries also damage productivity as well, costing American companies 104,000,000 in production days in 2017. What's more, the indirect costs of injures can often be higher than the direct costs—as much as 17 times higher, according to Safety  and  Magazine.

7. Safety precautions save thousands.

The best way to reduce workplace injury costs is to avoid them all together. Construction companies can save an average of $32,000 for each injury they avoid. Furthermore, for every $50,000 a construction company loses due to injury, illness or damage, it must sell an extra $1,667,000 in services in order to meet a 3% profit. Conversely, studies have found investing in company safety trainings can net tremendous savings. For every dollar a company spends on a health and safety program, it earns $8 in return.



8. Workplace-related industries and fatalities are down across the country.

While these statistics may paint a dire picture of the construction industry, the news isn't all bad. The rate of on-the-job injuries and fatalities are down industry-wide in the US. In fact, in 2017, workplace fatalities related to crane injuries hit a record low of just 33 deaths. And worker injuries and illness are down—In 1972, there were 10.9 incidents per 100 workers. In 2017, there were 2.8 per 100 workers.

While accidents do (and will continue to) happen, construction companies can ensure they keep accidents to a minimum by conducting regular inspections and by providing frequent trainings and safety meetings. This will not only keep employees safe, but it will also boost productivity and lower company costs. When employees are safe, healthy and happy, everyone wins.



At Blue Diamond Machinery, we proudly serve the construction industry in all of Nevada, Utah and Idaho. We rent and sell a range of construction equipment, including excavators dozers, motor graders and forklifts. We invite you to browse our rental inventory listings. If you don't find something you're looking for, feel free to give us at a call at  1-800-712-4190.
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			<title>5 Important Developments in the Nevada Mining Industry in 2019</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/nevada-mining-industry-2019</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jul 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Change is underway in the Nevada mining industry. Mining companies are merging and expanding their territories, resulting in more resources being earmarked for mineral and energy source exploration. In 2018, exploration spending increased by 31% from the previous year, leading industry insiders to speculate that 2019 will be another busy and profitable year.

Whether you work in the mining industry, partner with them like we do at Blue Diamond Machinery or are merely an interested outsider, the success of the Nevada industry is great news—Both for Nevada's economy and for all current and future Nevada residents. A booming mining industry helps to create more jobs, diversify the economy and draw big business to cities and small towns across the state. 

Below is a list of five new Nevada mining developments happening in 2019.

1. Vanadium is under active development.

China has recently become a net importer of vanadium, which is helping to drive interest and a price increase in the alloy vanadium. 

According to reports from the Elko Daily Free Press, there are three companies that have projects underway in Nevada that involve drilling for the three known deposits of vanadium currently found in Nevada: Prophecy Development Corp, First Vanadium Corp and Victory Metal.

While vanadium is an alloy used to strengthen steel, it is also used in a new type of battery utilized by renewable energy plants, called a vanadium redox flow battery.

These mines in Nevada will become the first in the United States to mine vanadium deposits. Previously, China, Russia and Brazil were vanadium's primary exporters.

Read the full article in the Elko Daily Free Press.

2. Mine merger creates world's largest gold producer.

In April 2019, Newmont Mining Corp. and Goldcorp Inc. completed their merger, forming Newmont Goldcorp Corporation. The Newmont Goldcorp Corporation is now the world's largest gold producer, with the company estimating their annual gold production will yield 6 million to 7 million ounces of gold.

With the $10 billion deal finalized, Newmont Goldcorp will be relocating their North American regional headquarters from Elko, Nevada, to Vancouver, Canada.

The company now has operations in the United States, Canada, Australia, Mexico as well as several countries in South America and Africa.

Read the full article in the Elko Daily Free Press.

3. Barrick Gold and Newmont Goldcorp launch new joint venture.

Newmont Goldcorp Corporation and Barrick Gold Corporation have partnered to form Nevada Gold Mines, LLC. Ownership will be divided, with Barrick owning and operating 61.5% of the company and Newmont Goldcorp owning 38.5%.

Benefits of the joint venture, which was finalized in July 2019, include, among other things, longer profitable mine lives as well as longer-term employment opportunities. In 2018, these mines produced a total of 4.1 million ounces of gold, which is about double what their chief competitor made.

The assets involve a number of mines in Northeastern Nevada, including 10 underground and 12 opencast mines. Assets also include five heap leach facilities, four oxide mills, two autoclave facilities, two roasting facilities and a floatation plant.

Read the full article on the Global Mining Review.

4. Marigold Mine is expanding.

SSR Mining Inc. is expanding Marigold Mine near Valmy, Nevada. SSR Mining Inc. acquired 21,992 acres at Trenton Canyon and Buffalo Valley from Newmont Goldcorp Corp. and Fairmile Gold Mining Inc. for $22 million.

After the deal is complete, Marigold Mines will have 48,926 acres. Marigold Mine is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2019.

Read the full article on Mining Global.

5. A new lithium project is in development.

Demand for lithium is on the rise as consumers use more lithium batteries—in products such as cell phones, electric cars and solar-powered appliances and vehicles.

While the US only produces 1% of the global lithium mineral supply, all significant quantities of lithium production in the US are produced in Nevada.

Lithium Americas is working on building Thacker Pass Mine, a $1.3 billion mining project that is expected to greatly increase domestic lithium production—by as much as six times the current amount.

If more automakers invest in electric vehicles, demand for lithium could triple, resulting in 1 million tons of production capacity per year by late 2020, according to Bloomberg News.

Read the full article on Bloomberg Environment.


Blue Diamond Machinery provides heavy equipment rentals and sales to construction and mining industries across Nevada, Utah and Idaho. To learn more about the equipment we have available for rent, visit our mining equipment or our rental inventory page or call us 24/7 at 1-800-712-4190.
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			<title>9 Tips for Selling Heavy Equipment Online</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/9-tips-for-selling-heavy-equipment-online</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 08 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Selling heavy equipment is not easy.  And figuring out which equipment listing sites are worth the effort and which aren't can be overwhelming. Many construction equipment companies struggle to sell equipment on the internet.

Heavy equipment is a niche market—Not many people shop for quarter-of-a-million-dollar pieces of construction machinery; and even fewer have the capital on hand to make a purchase. And even if you find a handful of people with the interest and resources to purchase a $100,000 excavator or $300,000 bulldozer, they may not be located in your same geographical region and may be unwilling to cover the costs to transport the machine across the state or country.



Selling heavy equipment is like selling a property—You have to be prepared to play the long game. For example, according to MachineryTrader.com, the average 972M wheel loader sits on the market place for 105 days before it is purchased. So if you've been trying to sell a machine for several months and haven't had any success, be patient. The right buyer will find you eventually—so long as you do your best to get your equipment listings seen.

With that said, below is nine of our top tips for selling heavy equipment online.

1. List your equipment on Machinery Trader



Machinery Trader remains one of the top websites for shopping for heavy equipment. It consistently ranks at the top of Google search results for high volume search terms like "excavators for sale" or "heavy equipment sales," ensuring your listings are likely to get a lot more eyeballs on them than if you were to only list the equipment on your company site or on less established websites.

Pros: Certain advertising packages provide in-depth data and analytics. You can track how many impressions and clicks an ad receives as well as how many phone calls each ad generates. You even have the option of recording incoming phone calls, so that a supervisor can listen back and provide feedback to sales reps on how they might better improve their lead to conversion rates.

Cons: It can be expensive to list equipment on Machinery Trader. Their pricing model still revolves around their print magazine, which is how they justify the higher-than-expected advertising costs.

Machinery Trader does not currently allow equipment dealers to just list their equipment online—If you want to list equipment on their website(s), you must also pay for a listing in their print magazine. Ad costs start at $50 per week per machine and the ad packages that include unlimited inventory listings start at $295 per week.

2. List your equipment on Craigslist



Craigslist may not be the first place you'd think of listing pricey construction equipment, but Craigslist has an entire heavy equipment category devoted to just that. At the time of writing, the Craigslist Heavy Equipment page for Las Vegas, for instance, had 1050 local sales listings.

Pros: Listings made by equipment owners are free. Plus, "heavy equipment for sale Craigslist" is a popular search term on Google, which suggests that a great number of people are shopping on craigslist for heavy equipment.

Cons: Craigslist discourages sellers from listing equipment outside of the city where their business is located. If your business is located in Las Vegas and you try to list your equipment in Los Angeles or Phoenix, for example, your listing could get flagged for removal.

Pro-tip: When listing your equipment, don't include your email address. Scammers and hackers have been known to use Craigslist to send phishing emails. If someone is interested in buying, they will call—So we recommend just including your phone number and website.

3. Post your machines in Heavy Equipment Groups on Facebook



Facebook has over two dozen groups dedicated to buying and selling farming and construction equipment. Some groups are general "heavy equipment for sale" groups while others are dedicated to a specific category of machine—forklifts, for example—or a specific region—the Southwest United States.

Pros: Listing equipment in Facebook groups is free and the platform allows you to post a single listing across dozens of groups at once. The entire process to list a piece of equipment only takes a few minutes.

Facebook groups may also prove to be a great way to get equipment seen by potential customers, thanks to a recent tweak in the newsfeed algorithm. At the time of writing, Facebook updated its algorithm to "prioritize the Pages and groups we predict an individual may care about most," which has resulted in posts from groups showing up at the top of many people's feeds.

Cons: Many of the heavy equipment groups on Facebook have thousands of members, with new listings appearing on each group's page several times a day. It can be tough to cut through the noise and get your listings seen.

Pro-Tip: Post quality photos and make sure to include a link to your website in the post's description. Even if no one from Facebook purchases your machine, providing a link can drive traffic to your site; helping to increase brand awareness.

4. Grow a targeted email list



When done right, email marketing can be an effective way to sell heavy equipment. Encourage people to subscribe to your email list by including an email capture plugin on your website and run a Facebook ad targeting your Facebook fans and people who have visited your website previously (you'll need to install a Facebook Pixel first in order to do this).

Pros: Email marketing platforms like Mailchimp are free if you sign up for their basic package. Unlike Gmail or Outlook, an email marketing platform gives you detailed data on which of your email subscribers opened your email and which clicked on your email links, allowing you to retarget those who've clicked on your listings with follow-up emails.

Cons: Growing a list of targeted leads takes time and strategy. It also takes skill, as doing it wrong can result in getting your account banned as Spam. We recommend taking a email marketing class if you're new to digital marketing. Many of the courses are offered free of charge.

5. Reach out to dealers in your region



Rather than running a Facebook ad, commercial or billboard and hoping an equipment sales rep notices it, why not contact that rep directly? If you have several Caterpillar machines for sale, for example, do a search of CAT dealers in your area and send them an email or give them a call. You'll want to find the name and direct email of the person you're looking to contact, but many equipment sites have their sales reps contact info listed on their directory page.

Pros: A phone call or email is quick and easy. Even if the sales rep doesn't have room in his budget to purchase your machine right now, you'll have gotten on his radar and he may keep you in mind next time he is looking to buy.

Cons: Heavy equipment companies hear from salespeople all day long, so they may be hesitant to accept a cold call without an appointment.

6. Ramp up your SEO



SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization—It's the art of ranking your website for specific search terms that your would-be buyers might be typing into Google—like "caterpillar motor grader" or "wheel loader for sale," etc. If you regularly sell a lot of the same type of equipment, it may make sense to create a page on your website that targets a specific keyword—such as "excavators for sale," or "forklift sales." Though it may take years of consistent work before your website starts to rank on the first page of Google and other search engines, it's a longhaul strategy that is worth working toward.

Pros: If you rank organically in search results for popular heavy equipment sales-related search terms, you'll be able to scale back on the amount you're spending on Google or Facebook ads. This may save you money over the long run.

Cons: SEO can take months or even years before you see a payoff. If you're looking to sell equipment right away, you should consider other options, like auctions or listings on Machinery Trader.

7. Connect with potential buyers on LinkedIn



LinkedIn is the social media platform for B2B companies. If you haven't logged in recently, it's worth revisiting, as LinkedIn has done a lot of work to model its newsfeed after Facebook's, making it the unofficial "Facebook for business owners."

Unlike other social media platforms, when you "follow" (or connect) with a new person on LinkedIn, they automatically follow you back. This means you can easily double your number of followers in just a few days. On Instagram, on the other hand, you might follow a hundred new people and only get one or two of them to follow you back in return.

Pros: Because everyone has their job titles listed in their profiles, you can be extremely targeted in whom you select to connect with; friending only people who work in the sales department of companies you're hoping to sell to, for example. According to a HubSpot study, LinkedIn generated 3X more conversions than Twitter and Facebook.

Cons: Many people set up a LinkedIn account and then never visit it again, making it tough to connect meaningfully with people on a regular basis. But that looks to be changing. As of March 2017, 260 million people were logging into LinkedIn on a monthly basis, up from 106 million in 2016.

Speaking of LinkedIn, let's connect! Connect with our marketing department on LinkedIn and follow our business page.

8. Run Facebook ads



With 2.3 billion users, Facebook remains the largest social media platform on the planet and the world's third-most visited website.

Here are a few relevant Facebook stats:


	68% of Americans use Facebook.
	The average Facebook user clicks on 8 ads per month.
	Based on data from our equipment ads, a national Facebook ad targeting people who work in the construction and heavy equipment industries has a potential reach of 350,000 people.


Pros: Facebook ads are relatively cheap. When done effectively, you can generate website visits for as little as just a few cents per click.

Cons: Facebook ads are great for building brand awareness, but it can be a tough platform to use to drive immediate conversions. People log into their Facebook feeds to watch cute cat videos and catch up with old friends—not shop. The key is to use Facebook ads to capture email addresses so that you can remarket later via email or Facebook retargetting ads. 

9. Reach out to your current customer base



Examples from a customer giveway package we created. 

We've saved the best for last. From our experience, the most effective way to sell heavy equipment is by reaching out to previous or current customers. Why find new buyers when you can sell equipment to those who already know and trust you? A significant number of sales we've made over the last two years have come from our current rental clients. 

Pros: It's easy—Your customers are familiar with your equipment and they already trust you. You don't have to spend a lot of time and resources convincing them to give your company a chance—they know they can count on you to give them a good deal.

Cons: None. While this shouldn't be your only selling strategy, we see no downsides to keeping your customer base aware of upcoming sales and new inventory items. 

Got any tips to ad? Visit us on Facebook and let us know. 


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned construction equipment company in Las Vegas that rents and sells heavy equipment across the American Southwest. Read our About Page to learn more.
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			<title>The Big Tax Benefits of Buying Heavy Equipment</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/buying-heavy-equipment-taxes</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 12 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			The government is offering big tax deductions for used construction equipment purchases.

If you bought used construction equipment in 2019 or plan on buying used heavy equipment over the next three years, you may be in for a nice tax break. Contractors are not only able to receive a tax break for new construction equipment purchases, but they're also able to receive a tax break for used construction equipment purchases as well.

The details of the law:

When the new tax code overhaul was signed into law in December, 2017, many construction business owners were excited about several of the changes that appeared in Section 179, including:


	A first-year bonus equipment deduction that would include, for the first time, used construction equipment
	A first-year bonus equipment deduction that increased from "50 percent to 100 percent of its cost." This means buyers can write off the entire cost of the machine the first year they purchase it instead of deducting the cost little by little over the course of several years.
	An increase in the maximum equipment depreciation deduction allowance - From $500,000 to $1 million.
	An increase in the maximum equipment purchase allotment—From $2 million to $2.5 million.




Who can take advantage of the deduction:

According to Section 179.org, those who qualify for the deduction include "all businesses that purchased, financed, and/or leased new or used business equipment during tax year 2019." This is assuming they spend less than $3,500,000.

The types of equipment that you can write off under Section 179:


	All construction equipment or heavy machinery bought for business use
	Business vehicles (weight must exceed 6,000 lbs)
	Certain improvements made to business buildings (for example, security systems, HVAC and roofing).
	And more. For complete details, we recommend visiting: section179.org.


Final Note:

While the law isn't without some qualifiers—Some states, like California, for example, handles bonus depreciation differently—the changes are largely beneficial for contractors, espcially small businesses.

Of course, you'll want to run this advice by your tax accountant first to make sure you qualify before taking action. We at Blue Diamond Machinery are not US tax experts. We prefer to stick with what we know best—renting and selling top-notch heavy equipment.

That said, you can read about the tax law changes in detail at Section179.org.

Our equipment for sale:

Start preparing for your tax right-offs now. You have until December 21 of this year to make a purchase.
 







View our complete listing on our Used Heavy Equipment for Sale page. 

 
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			</description>
				
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			<title>6 Common Types of Heavy Equipment</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/types-of-heavy-equipment</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 14 Aug 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Heavy equipment (also called heavy machinery) is the term used to describe the heavy-duty machines that are used in the construction, forestry, agriculture and mining industries. These machines are commonly used to move earth and other large materials, but they are also frequently used to drill, lift, grade, suction, pave and compact. 

The History of Heavy Equipment 



A continuous track from 1909.

Because heavy machinery is frequently powered by gasoline, one would assume that construction machinery is a relatively recent invention. Heavy equipment, however, has been in existence since at least the first century. Reports show that the ancient Romans used cranes and other types pf heavy equipment. The first pile driver was thought to have been invented in approximately 1500.

Until the 19th century, however, most heavy machinery used human or animal power. Once the portable steam-power engine was invented, the combine harvester and tractor were reconfigured to utilize steam power. Later, heavy equipment used kerosene and ethanolengines, before those energy sources were eventually replaced with diesel fuel or electric power. 

Have you ever wondered why a bulldozer often has tracks instead of wheels? This goes back to World War I, when tracked tanks became a popular military vehicle. 



Common Types of Heavy Equipment

Today, hundreds of pieces of equipment are used every day to power the construction, mining and agricultural industries. 

They include:


	Tractors
	Skid steer loaders
	Backhoe loaders
	Feller bunchers
	Harvesters
	Scrapers
	Articulated haulers
	Pavers
	Drilling machines
	Trenchers
	Cranes
	Cold planers
	Draglines
	Electric rope shovels
	Hydraulic mining shovels
	And much more


For this article, we've chosen to highlight just six. In order to narrow our list, we took a look at our website data. Over the last eight months, Blue Diamond Machinery's website has received nearly 100,000 page views. While visitors to our site have requested quotes for nearly every category of equipment, there are a handful that we have found have been requested again and again. We've compiled that information into a list, and below, we share six popular types of heavy equipment as well as their common uses. 

1. Excavators



Excavators consist of a cab, boom, stick and bucket (or other attachment). The cab sits on a rotating platform and has an undercarriage outfitted with either tracks or wheels. Hydraulic excavators come in a variety of sizes—the smallest weighing just over 2,000 pounds and the largest weighing over two million pounds. Excavators are often equipped with buckets, but can also be outfitted with other hydraulic-powered attachments, like breakers, grapples or augers.

To learn more about excavator sizes and attachments, read: The 7 Types of Excavators: Which One Should You Choose?

Excavators are used for a wide variety of functions, including:


	Digging
	Demolition
	Material handling
	Mulching
	River dredging
	Landscaping
	Open pit mining
	Brush cutting
	Drilling
	Snow removal
	And more


2. Bulldozers



A bulldozer (also called a crawler) is a continuous tracked tractor that comes with a metal plate called a blade. The blade is used to push large amounts of material, such as a soil, sand, rocks, debris or even snow. The blades come in three different types: the "S blade," the "U blade" or the "S-U." The S blade (straight blade) is used for fine grading because it is short and has no side wings or lateral curve. The U blade (universal blade) can carry more material because it is tall, curved and has large side wings. The S-U blade (semi-u blade) is a combination blade that is used for pushing large rocks. Like the S blade, it is short, but unlike the S blade, it has a curve and side wings. The blade is less curved and the wings are smaller, however, than the U blade. S-U blades are typically used in quarries.

Bulldozes are used for:


	Construction
	Mining
	Forestry
	Land clearing
	Road building
	And more


3. Motor Graders



A motor grader (also called a road grader or a grader) is characterized by its long blade, which is used to grade (flatten and smooth) a road or surface.

Like the bulldozer, the motor grader can also come with an attachment at the rear. Attachments can include a ripper, compactor, blade or scarifier.

Graders are used for:


	Maintaining dirt roads
	Preparing roads to be paved
	Grading soil or gravel surfaces in preparation for a building foundation


4. Telehandlers



A telehandler (also called a reach forklift or boom lift) is similar to a forklift except that it has a boom (Telescopic cylinder). The boom can extend forward and upward, giving the telehandler more versatility than a forklift. Telehandlers can be equipped with attachments—like a pallet fork, muck grab, bucket or winch—that are placed at the end of the boom. 

Telehandlers are used for: 


	Moving material from the ground or a trailer to a location that is out of reach of a forklift, such as the top of a roof. 
	Moving material when a crane is not available or suitable for a particular job (due to practicalities or time efficiency)


5. Dump Trucks



A dump truck (also called a dumper truck, tipper truck or rock truck) is used for moving materials from one location to another. It is characterized by its open-box bed, which is found at the rear of the truck and is equipped with hydraulic rams that lift the front of the bed in order to dump the material out onto the ground behind the truck. 

Dump trucks are used for:


	Moving and dumping sand, rocks or demolition waste.


6. Compactors



Like the name suggests, a compactor is used to compact rocks or gravel. There are three types of compactors commonly used in the construction industry: the plate, the "jumping jack" and the road roller. The plate compactor (also called a vibratory rammer) and the jumping jack are both used to create a level grade. The jumping jack, however, has a smaller foot, which allows it to be used in narrow trenches. Road roller compactors are used to compact the ground before stone or concrete foundation slabs are placed.

Bonus Item: Loader



One of our followers on Facebook was nice to point out that we'd forgotten to include one of the most common pieces of equipment of all! The loader. 

A loader is used to scoop up and move materials, such as rocks, logs, snow, raw minerals and demolition debris, from one location to another (or to a dump truck or conveyor belt). A loader is usually wheeled and is easily recognized by the front-mounted bucket that's connected to the end of two booms. Loaders are known by different names depending on their design and common uses, such as:


	Front loader
	Bucket loader
	Front-end loader
	Payloader
	Wheel loader



About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. We are headquartered in Las Vegas and service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
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			<title>How to Choose the Best Grease for Your Heavy Equipment</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/best-heavy-equipment-grease</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 30 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			One of the most important things you can do to maintain your heavy machinery is to grease it regularly. Grease not only extends the life of the machine, but it also prevents contamination and increases machine performance. Grease prevents joints from sticking and helps to ensure the pins and bushings don't become worn.

Here is our detailed guide to choosing the best grease for your heavy equipment.

Choosing the Best Grease



1. Don't use the same type of grease for all of your machines and parts

It may be tempting to select one type of grease for all of your equipment. This can work some of time, but if you're looking to extend the life of your equipment, you'll want to tailor each type of grease to the type of machine and your specific jobsite conditions.

Also, different parts of a machine may require different types of grease, depending on their operating temperature.

If your equipment uses an auto-lubrication system, you may need a lighter grease, such as an NLGI #0 or even an NLGI #00, in some instances.

2. Check grease recommendations in your equipment manual

One of the first places to check when deciding which grease to use is your machine's operation manual. While not all manuals go into specifics about greasing, they'll include a general recommendation. This is a great place to start.

3. Use NLGI #2 grease in the summer

When it's hot outside, grease tends to become thinner, so it's important to use a thicker grease in the summer. Look for grease that has a high viscosity.

This is especially important for our clients in Southern Nevada and Arizona, where temperatures in the summer can regularly exceed 100 degrees. We recommend using a NLGI #2 (Polyurea or multipurpose) grease.

What does NLGI mean? NLGI stands for the National Lubricating Grease Institute and is the institution that certifies grease. Grease can range from NLGI #000 to NLGI #6, but the most common is NLGI #2 because it can be used for a wide temperature range.

Read: How to Prepare Your Heavy Equipment for Summer.

4. Use an NLGI #1 grease during winter

When temperatures fall below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, it is a good idea to use NLGI #1 grease or a synthetic grease. This will make the equipment easier to operate.

Make sure you have a good grease gun or grease pumping system during the cold winter months or you may have difficulty ensuring the grease reaches the zerk fittings and flows properly through the joints.

Read: 5 Best Practices for Winterizing Your Heavy Equipment.

5. Use a different grease in wet conditions

If a particular job requires that your machines are exposed to wet conditions, like rivers, heavy rain or the ocean, it may be a good idea to use a marine grease. Marine greases have lithium complex thickeners and can help prevent rust and protect against damage from salt.

6. Base your grease choices on the equipment application

If a job requires you to apply a lot of pressure to a machine, it may be a good idea to use a grease with a molybdenum disulfide (moly). The additive helps the grease get into small machine pins and bushings. If the parts aren't greased sufficiently enough, welding can occur.

Types of Grease and When to Use Them



All grease is made up of a fluid lubricant that is comprised of either mineral oil or synthetic oil and a thickener. Some may also include additives. Below are four main categories.

Basic Greases:

"Moly" grease — Inexpensive but a good quality grease. It's good for machines with moving joints—like a loader or backhoe.

Next Level Up:

Polyurea or (multipurpose) grease—This type of grease is good for parts that reach a high temperature, as this is a "high temp grease." Machines that have spindles or rotating grooves can get very hot and a polyurea grease won't break down as quickly as other types of grease.

Higher-End Greases

Synthetic grease—This type of grease is more expensive—It's almost three times the cost of a basic grease—but it lasts longer than a petroleum-based grease.

Specialty Greases

There are numerous specific greases that are made for particular gear boxes and applications. High impact greases, for example, are made for breakers (hammers), because they are formulated to withstand pounding. Make sure to read the grease tube label carefully to ensure you have the right one, as specialty greases have specific uses. They are not for general use.

Greasing Maintenance Tips:




	While greasing daily is ideal, at minimum, you should be greasing every eight hours of operation. However, some lubrication points have different greasing intervals, so it's important to refer to the OMM. Make sure to grease all the grease points around the machine.
	Don't wait until you hear a grinding noise to re-grease. It's important that you don't skip greasing intervals. Skipping greasing may save you money in the short term, but grinding can produce metal flakes in the bearing or bushing that can damage the machine.
	Remove old grease before adding new grease. The old grease needs to be completely removed before using a new grease, because some greases are not compatible with one another due to their different thickeners.
	Keep zerks clean—Dirt can become caked onto fittings that are slick with grease, so before you re-grease, make sure to clean off the zerks in order to prevent accidentally pushing dirt into the bearing. If you don't, the dirt buildup can result in equipment failure.
	Don't overuse the grease gun on the bearings—Grease guns produce up to 15,000 psi per stroke (or shot), but a bearing lip seal can only handle up to 500 psi. If you apply, say, 20 shots of grease to a bearing, you may overfill the bearing cavity, which can force the grease outside of the seals when the equipment heats up. This can lead to contamination as well as moisture buildup.



About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. We are headquartered in Las Vegas and service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
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			<title>5 New Construction Projects Set to Transform Downtown Las Vegas in 2020</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/new-construction-projects-downtown-las-vegas</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 06 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Downtown Las Vegas has become a popular destination for millennials in the last few years, thanks in part to the addition of a slew of new bars and restaurants to the historic Fremont Street and the Las Vegas Arts District. In fact, according to a 2019 report provided by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, millennials made up 55 percent of all the surveyed visitors to #DTLV in 2018.

The City of Las Vegas has taken note, putting together plans to draw more visitors of all ages to downtown while supporting downtown's workers and would-be residents with new housing. Because although downtown visitor growth has dramatically increased in the last decade, residential growth has more or less stagnated. In 2014, downtown was home to 22,590 people and by 2018, the population had actually decreased slightly to 22,261 (Source).

This hasn't always been the case. 50 years ago, downtown living was the norm. But in the decades since, many of the single-family homes were sold and turned into law offices, leaving the residential area south of Fremont desolate outside of normal business hours.

Media reports indicate that this may soon change, however. Several of the city's new construction projects include housing for downtown. This, along with two new casinos, a convention center and even an art museum, suggest the downtown's revitalization period is far from over.  

1. Circa Resort  and 

Grand Opening: December 2020




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by 🌸Mommy N Nay 👩🏼👧🏾 (@mommynnay) on Feb 11, 2019 at 10:29pm PST




Developers Derek and Greg Stevens, the same duo who brought you the remodeled downtown casino The D, have teamed up again to create the Circa Resort  and . The Fremont Street casino will combine both vintage charm—in the form of the "Vegas Vickie" cowgirl neon sign—and high tech.

The resort's stadium-style sportsbook will be multi-level and will feature the largest screen in sportsbook history. The pool amphitheater will also include a giant screen, so that guests can catch a Golden Knights or Raiders game poolside.

2. Expo at World Market Center

Grand Opening: Summer 2020




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Anderson Matlock Development (@amdcalifornia) on Aug 1, 2019 at 3:56pm PDT




Downtown will soon be getting its own convention center. The World Market Center will be adding a 315,000-square foot exhibition center. The remodel will cost $90 million and will feature two halls in order to accommodate both trade shows and corporate events. The first show the Expo will host is the Las Vegas Market Gift and Home Decor Show. 

3. Symphony Park Redevelopment

Completion Date: Late 2020 or Early 2021




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Stan J (@711sj) on Feb 20, 2019 at 4:27pm PST




Symphony Park, which is currently home to the Smith Center for Performing Arts as well as the Discovery Children's Museum and the Cleveland Clinic for Brain Health, is about to receive several exciting new additions to the neighborhood, including:


	Two housing projects—Totaling 600 residential units.
	Marriott Hotel—The hotel will serve the convention-goers at the neighboring Expo convention center. The Mariott is expected to open in fall 2021.
	Retail—60,000-square-feet of retail space will be added in order to improve the walk-ability of the area.
	Museum—The Nevada Art Museum has reserved a spot in the new complex.
	Medical offices—In addition to space for private residences, there will also be space set aside for businesses, including medical offices. 
	Casino—Developer Derek Stevens has purchased an area on the northern corner of Symphony Park. Plans are underway to build a new casino. 


4. Lave OM

Opening: Early 2020




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by LAVE OM Downtown Las Vegas (@laveomdowntownvegas) on Jul 23, 2019 at 6:55pm PDT




A new apartment building is being built just north of Charleston Blvd., at 627 S. 10th Street. Called "Lave Om," which means "to change" in Danish, the 18-unit building will be three stories tall and will feature 10 studio apartments, 4-one bedroom and 4 two-bedroom units.

The complex will also include covered parking and a rooftop area for socializing. The first floor will include commercial space and a coffee shop or hair salon. 

5. New Apartments on East Fremont Street

Opening: May 2020




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Claus (@lvelectrified) on Aug 14, 2019 at 5:34pm PDT




The former Safari Motel will soon be transformed into a 21-unit apartment complex. Using $95,000 in financial assistance from the City of Las Vegas, Las Vegas Apartments LLC will oversee the conversion. Built in 1954, The Safari has fallen into disrepair in recent years, making headlines for a fire, a stabbing and other crime-related incidents that occured on property. 

Fans of vintage Vegas can be relieved to note, however, that the hotel's historic LED sign won't be destroyed in the remodel, as the property's new owners have said they'll either restore the sign or donate it to the city. 

Want to learn more? Read:


	5 New Resorts Being Built in Las Vegas in 2019
	5 Las Vegas Sports Stadium Construction Projects Underway in 2019
	Why Nevada is a Great State to Work Construction


 
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>How to Tell You're Buying Used Equipment from a Quality Heavy Equipment Company</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/buying-used-heavy-equipment-company</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 10 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			As with any industry, in the heavy equipment sales business, there are good and bad players. While some equipment sellers may be out to make a quick buck in a underhand way, many more may be selling bad equipment without knowing it. It's therefore mportant that you only purchase machines from experienced and reputable professionals. Buying from a licensed dealer may be more expensive than buying from the man selling excavators from his backyard, but it will be worth it in the long-run to know that the used equipment you've purchased is in pristine condition and has been well maintained.

1. Consider the price carefully—Cheaper isn't always better

You don't want to overspend on equipment but you also don't want to underspend either. Equipment that's priced well below market value could be a sign that something is wrong or that the equipment lacks a vital feature or attachment. Research prices online before making an appointment to see the equipment and if the machinery you're interested in is listed at a rock bottom price, make sure to inquire about the reasons why. It could be that the equipment comany is just selling off extra machines or trimming their inventory, but you'll want to verify that.

2. Walk around the yard

You can learn a lot about a heavy equipment company by looking at the condition of the other equipment in the rental yard. Does the equipment look clean and well cared for? Is the yard, shop and garage neat and tidy? An equipment yard with several rusted or busted machines or that's literred with trash and debris should be a red flag. Quality equipment companies are ones that are managed well, and this includes attention to equipment safety and workplace cleanliness and professionalism.

3. Ask about the mechanics

A good heavy equipment company will have factory-trained and certified mechanics that oversee the maintenance and repairs of the machines. This is important because you'll want to know that the machine you're purchasing has been thoroughly inspected before being put on the market. 

4. Do your own inspection

Examine the machine carefully before signing any paperwork. This includes inspecting the undercarraige, hydraulics, engine, tires, buckets or forks and examining the engine exhaust. Read our detailed inspection list for further tips on what to look for. If you or your mechanic notice any issues, you may be able to negotiate a price decrease or insist that the problem be fixed before handing over any money. If the equipment dealer is hesitant about letting you inspect the machine, walk away. An honest company is a transparent one. 

5. Check their business ratings

In addition to reading their Google and Yelp reviews, search for them on the Better Business Bureau website and take note of any customer complaints that have been listed there. A well-established heavy equipment sales company will also have a professional website with a company About Page that features information on their owner and employees. If they don't, ask for customer references. 

6. Check for valid equipment ownership

Unfortunately, construction equipment and tools are a popular target for theft. You'll want to make sure the equipment you're buying hasn't been stolen or doesn't have a lien out, so be sure ask to see the title and run the PIN. You should also ask to see the equipment's maintenance record to verify that the machine(s) have been maintained and the fluids have been changed regularly. Read: 6 Anti-Theft Devices that Will Help Protect Your Heavy Equipment from Theft. 



About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. We are headquartered in Las Vegas and service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
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			</description>
				
		</item>		<item>
			<title>6 Things You Need to Know Before You Rent Heavy Equipment</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/things-to-know-before-rent-heavy-equipment</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 18 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			As anyone in the construction industry knows, the failure or success of a construction project often depends on whether a company can remain on time and within budget. Choosing the right machine for your job is crucial, which is why it's important you have the correct specs before you call your heavy equipment rental company. The last thing you want to do is rent a machine and haul it to a jobsite, only to find out that it's the wrong size or that you're mising a vital attachment. 

The following are six important pieces of information that you need to verify before you reserve machinery with construction equipment company. 

1. Machine height requirements

Whether you're renting a forklift, excavator or wheel loader, it's important to note the heights you'll need the machine to reach for each specific job. Don't just trust the specs listed online—Verify with your rental coordinator that the machine you're considering can actually reach your max and minimum height requirements. 

2. Max weight the machine will need to lift

You may not know the exact max weight, and that's okay, but it's important to get a rough estimate. You should also know the amount as well as type of material you'll be moving (dirt versus rock debris, for example).

3. Ground condition (flat or uneven?)

It's important to know if you'll be operating on a flat, smooth surface or a rocky or slanted surface because this will determine if you need a tracked machine or if a wheeled machine will suffice. This information may also determine the type of tire tread your job will require. 

4. Extra attachments or tools 

The kind of attachments you'll need will depend on the specifics of your job. Will you be using your machine for demolition? Then a tooth-edged ripping bucket may be your best choice. Are you drilling? Then you'll probably want a breaker (hammer). If you are unsure of what type of attachment you'll need, your equipment provider will be able to advise you. 

5. The length of your project

One of the first questions you'll be asked when you call a machinery rental company is "How long are you looking to rent the machine for?" You'll need to know the specific dates so that the coordiantor can check on the machine's availability. 

6. Transportation needs

If you don't have the vehicle or staff on hand to transport the equipment to and from your jobsite, don't worry. Most rental companies will be able to provide equipment transport for you.

Want to learn more? Read: 9 Vital Questions to Ask When Renting Heavy Equipment.


At Blue Diamond Machinery, we rent and sell a range of construction equipment, including excavators, dozers, motor graders and forklifts. We invite you to browse our rental inventory listings. If you don't find something you're looking for, feel free to give us at a call at 1-800-712-4190.
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>6 Tips for Operating a Dozer</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/operating-a-dozer-tips</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 24 Sep 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			If you're new to operating a dozer, perhaps the most important thing you'll want to do is to get a sense of how the machine should look, feel, sound and smell (yes, smell) when it's running smoothly. This takes time, so don't stress if you don't have a handle on it right away. After you've clocked in several days in the driver's seat, you should be able to have an intuitive feel for how the machine should run. But in the meantime, below are several bulldozer operating tips to keep you safe and your machine running as smoothly and efficiently as possible. 

1. Work in the slot



It's important to work in the slot by dozing front to back. Working in the slot helps to decrease dirt or material from spilling from the blade. It can also help to increase the blade load by up to 30 percent. When digging a slot, dig until you've reached the height of the blade and then move on to the next slot. 

2. Doze from the front and work backwards

If you're looking to maximize productivity and decrease undercarriage wear, we recommend dozing front to back. We've found this to work well because when you work front to back, you limit the amount of time you spend operating the machine in reverse. The less time you spend driving backwards, the more you can slow down wear on the track.

Here's how to do it:

1. Start behind the the spot where you intend to cut—about two tractor lenghts. On the first pass, operate the dozer in first gear, aiming to fill the blade as fast as possible and start a spoil pile (if you're operating a small or medium-sized tractor, you can shift to second gear). A good goal is to flill the blade within two tractor lengths or less. Next, reverse the machine until you are two tractor lengths behind where you started the first pass; This is where you'll want to begin your second pass. As you move through the second pass, steer the machine through the same slot that you made in the first pass. Continue doing this—reversing and then extending your starting point—until you've reached your desired slot length.

2. When you're ready to start a second slot, reverse until you are approximately two tractor lenths from the spoil. Then move the machine until you are next to the first slot. You should aim to keep a distance of about one third of a blade width between the edge of the blade and the first slot.  

3. Front-to-back dozing can reduce the amount of time you spend operating in reverse by 38 percent. Instead of backing up for the entire cut, you're only backing up for the length of the previous push and then an additional two tractor lengths. 

3. Check the track tension

When track chains are tight, they can wear up to three times faster than they would normally. While you should check with your operator's manual for specifics, the general rule of the thumb is that if your track has a carrier roller, the sag should be two inches.

Here is how to meaure the sag:

1. Slow to a stop—Don't use your brakes.

2. Lay a straight edge over the grousers or stretch a string from the idler to the sproket. 

3. Measure the distance between the lowest point of the sag and the grouser tip.

4. Measure the lowest point of each valley on both sides of the carrier lower and calculate the average. 

While there is no set interval track-chain tension adjustments, the chain tension should be adjusted whenever a change in weather or environmental conditions occurs.

For example, the track-chain tension should be checked when any of the following conditions occur:


	It rains
	It becomes windy
	The machine runs into puddles of water
	The air temperature increases


These conditions can cause mud or debris to pack into the sprockets. By adjusting the chain tension, you can prevent the loose chain from binding in front of the idler.

50 percent of undercarriage wear can be reduced by maintaining proper track-chain tension. According to field surveys conducted by Caterpillar, however, 20 percent of tracks are too tight.

4. Use short cuts

Dozer operators often assume that long cuts are better, but the opposite is actually true. A dozer blade can only hold a finite amount of dirt. If you can continue to push forward after the blade is full, the dirt will fall to the sides of the blade and you'll have windows that you'll need to go back and move. What's more, when the blade is full, you're cease being able to cut and are only pushing dirt in front of the blade. Long cuts waste fuel and can lead to undercarriage wear and track slip. Every bulldozer, no matter how small or big it is, should be able to accumulate a full blade load within two tractor lengths or less. 

Make every hour of operation count and use shorter cuts. This will help save energy and time. 

5. Work up and down slopes whenever possible

Operating a machine on a hillside can be a dangerous job, which is why we recommend crawler dozer operators work slowly on slopes and keep attachments low. We also suggest working up and down on slopes in order to prevent rollerovers. While newer machines have hydrostatic transmissions, older machines have torque converters, which may not have an automatic holdback. Thus, it's best to avoid changing gears and costing in neutral while going downhill.  

6. Check oil and coolant every morning and evening

While falls more into the maintenance side, it's good to get into the habit of checking the coolant and engine and hydraulic oils each and every morning before work resumes. The transmission and engine oil should be checked again at the end of the work day. This should also include a check of air filters and well as the grease fittings, such as the swing frame zerks.

Read: How to Choose the Best Grease for Your Heavy Equipment.
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>14 Ways to Reduce Heavy Equipment Fuel Costs</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/reduce-heavy-equipment-fuel-costs</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 01 Oct 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Even when fuel prices are relatively low, it's always good to do what you can to keep fuel costs to a minimum. Below is a list of ways to keep your fleet operating as fuel efficiently as possible. 

1. Educate machine operators—Machine operators play a big role in controlling fuel consumption costs. Train operators to avoid speeding or braking sharply, as this can increase fuel use.

2. Limit idle time—Keeping a machine idling for longer than is absolutely necessary adds to your fuel costs by as much as 50% and it can shorten the life of engine oil by 75%. Heavy equipment works best when it's operated at a steady pace—Frequent braking and acceleration burns more fuel. It can help to think in terms of car miles—highway miles (i.e, steady use) is more fuel efficient than city miles (inconsistent use). We recommend establishing an idle policy for drivers and then monitoring it with idle reporting. 

3. Avoid quick acceleration—Machines use 40% more fuel when operators accelerate quickly. Encourage them to avoid "jackrabbit starts," as those not only increase fuel consumption but they can also increase toxic emissions. 

4. Avoid speeding—Speeding is not only dangerous, but it uses more fuel. Encourage equipment operators to drive machines at a slow and steady pace.

5. Don't carry unnecessary weight—Extra weight can lower fuel efficiency because it puts a strain on a vehicle's engine. Improve your gas mileage by reducing added weight whenever possible. 

6. Plan work days with efficiency in mind—Fuel efficiency can be greatly increased by planning ahead. Ensure employees are using the shortest travel distances with the least amount of obstructions, for example. Also, it's a good idea to examine how each machine is being used to see if a more efficient solution is available (such as using one dozer instead of two, for example, or using a larger wheel loader bucket). 

7. Get regular tune-ups—Keeping up-to-date on maintenance items like oil changes and air filter and break inspections can not only help extend the life your machinery, but it can also improve fuel efficiency.

8. Keep tires inflated properly—For wheeled machinery, it's important to maintain proper air tire pressure. Tires that are low can cost up to an additional two weeks of fuel per year. For tracked machines, keep tracks adjusted to the proper tension. 

9. Select the right size and machine for the job—Bigger machines use more fuel, so you can cut costs by ensuring you aren't using a machine that's bigger than necessary. Similarly, if you're using a smaller-than-recommended machine, you'll be overworking the machine, which can cause unnecessary wear and result in costly repairs. Using the wrong type of machine or attachment can also add to more work in the long run, and more work equals more fuel. Read: 9 Vital Questions to Ask When Renting Heavy Equipment. 

10. Implement monitoring technology—Next to operator training, implementing an advanced telematics system is the best thing you can do to reduce fuel costs. Telematics not only helps you track fuel consumption, but it can also provide you with data on how often the machine sits idling and when fuel consumption is at its peak as well as information on the driving habits of your operator.

11. Encourage efficient communication—Idling and unnecessary machine use are frequently caused by poor communication. By streamlining the communication process between teams, you can eliminate employee down time and pointless machine use. 

12. Shift at a lower RPM—Operators use more fuel when they gear up and throttle down at high RPMs. Encourage operators to lower their RPMs before they shift.

13. Keep equipment's cutting edge and teeth sharp—Over time, a dull blade edge or dull or rounded bucket teeth can increase fuel consumption because they reduce the effectiveness of the machine. Equipment with dull blades or bucket teeth have more resistance and aren't able to cut through material as effectively. 

14. Upgrade your machinery—Newer, quality machines operate more efficiently than older or poorly maintained equipment. If you're looking to upgrade your fleet, we welcome you to view our listing of new equipment and used equipment for sale or call 1-800-712-4190 today. 


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is a premier, independently owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. From our headquarters in Las Vegas, we proudly service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
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			<title>12 Tips for Operating a Mini Excavator</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/tips-for-operating-a-mini-excavator</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 02 Oct 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			The mini excavator is a popular addition to any construction equipment fleet and one of our most frequently rented pieces of equipment, thanks to the machine's versatility and ease of operation. Below we've included some general information about the mini excavator as well as some tips on how to operate a mini excavator as efficiently and safely as possible. 



What is a mini excavator?

A mini excavator is similar to a standard excavator, only it's smaller. It's available both tracked and wheeled and can weigh up to 20,000 pounds. Any excavator that weighs more than that is generally considered a standard excavator, although some put that cutoff number much lower—at about 10,000 pounds. A mini excavator's bucket size falls between 12 and 24 inches. To learn more about the differences between a mini and other types of excavators, read our detailed guide to the 7 types of excavators. 

The benefits of renting or buying a mini excavator vs. a standard excavator

1. Less ground damage—Mini excavators are lighter and smaller, which means they cause less top ground damage. Because they are compact, they're easier to maneuver around crowded jobsites (like indoor areas or parking lots).

2. Easier to maneuver—Their smaller sizes make them easier to operate and their 360-degree rotation makes them ideal for working in narrow or cramped spaces. 

3. Simpler to transport—Unlike larger excavators, you can quickly load and unload a mini excavator onto a trailer or even a truck. Of course, you'll want to make sure the trailer can support the weight before doing so. 

4. Lasts longer - A mini excavator has a longer shelf life because it lifts less weight and carries smaller loads. By comparison, a standard excavator encounters a lot more stress and strain over time. Read: How to Extend the Life of Your Machinery. 

5. More versatility - Mini excavators can be used for a wide variety of projects because they work with a number of different attachments. This allows them to be used in range of functions in addition to digging and demolition. Some of them include: repairing sewer lines, snow plowing and installing hot tubs and swimming pools.

How to Operate a Mini Excavator: A Step-by-Step Guide



The video above will give you detailed instructions, but below are some of the highlights.

Step 1: When you climb into the excavator, make sure to use three points of contact as you lift yourself up and in. Keep in mind that falls are the number one cause of construction-related fatalities.

Step 2: Put your seatbelt on.

Step 3: Close the door.

Step 4: Start the machine by turning the key in the ignition.

Step 5: Look at the machine's display to see if there are any warning lights or other indicators. Check the fuel levels.

Step 6: Take safety lock off. 

Step 7: Use the joystick located to the right to raise the boom up and down. You can do this by pulling the joystick back to move the boom up and pushing the joystick forward to move the boom down.

Step 8: Use the same joystick to "open" and "close" the bucket. Push the joystick to the right to open the bucket and to the left to close the bucket.

Step 9: Use the joystick to the left to move the excavator's stick. Pushing the joystick forward moves the stick out and pulling it backward moves the stick back.

Step 10: You also use the left joystick to swing the cab to the right and left.

Step 11: To drive the excavator, make sure the blade is up and then use the the pedals on the floor to move the machine forward. Once you've repositioned, lower the blade again to stabilize the machine.

12 Tips for Operating a Mini Excavator

Before you begin: 


	Before you set foot on the machine, it's a good idea to strategize and plan how you're going to approach the work ahead. Many operators fail to adequately think through their approach before beginning work and this can result in a waste of time and fuel. Some steps you might want to consider include determining where to put your spoil pile. This will help ensure you don't accidentally become "boxed in" in the middle of the project. You may also want to keep your team informed of your plan so that they can remain safely out of harm's way. 
	You'll also want to ensure you have the right sized attachments on hand in order to maximize efficiency.
	Before starting your project, test the excavator by running it on a level surface to make sure there are no balance issues. Also use this time to check for any machine damage, such as leaking oil or damage to the tracks. You should get into the habit of checking your coolant and lubricant levels every day before beginning work.


Safety tips:




	Use caution when moving the arm close to the cab in order to avoid hitting the blade or tracks with the bucket.
	Make sure the machine's tracks rest horizontally to the ground. Whenever you can, double check the machine is on firm ground in order to prevent a tip-over. While mini excavators are generally stable machines, you want to do everything you can to ensure the safety of you, the excavator, and those around you. Plus, if you're trying to dig a level trench, you won't be able to do so unless your machine is level first.
	This may go without saying, but never swing a bucket over people. This also should include people in cabs.
	Pay attention to your surroundings, especially what is often overlooked, such as obstacles overhead or buried beneath the ground. This is what the excavator mirrors and cameras were made for—use them. 
	When trenching, be careful that you aren't operating too close to the edge, especially if the soil is soft and prone to cave-ins.


Efficiency tips:


	Prepare, prepare, prepare—This is so important, it bares repeating. You can maximize efficiency by planning ahead. This involves visualizing how your job will progress and even creating a mapped guide using stakes, string or a chalk line. When creating your plan of attack, try to find ways you can keep machine movement to a minimum. This will save you time, put less hours and strain on the machine and can even help reduce fuel costs.
	Make sure to call 811 and inquire about any utilities before you begin digging.
	Grease the machine every day and perform regular maintenance checks. Make sure to check the air filters every 10 hours and clear away debris every 50 hours.
	Utilize the auto-idle function, as this can help save fuel and prevent early wear on the machine. 


Read: 14 Ways to Reduce Heavy Equipment Fuel Costs.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. We are headquartered in Las Vegas and service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
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			<title>The Future of Nevada Mining: A New Joint Venture's Effect on Northern Nevada Communities</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/nevada-mining-joint-venture</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 08 Oct 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			"If you are a gold miner, Nevada is the best address in the world."

- Greg Walker,

Executive Managing Director at Nevada Gold Mines, as reported by the Northern Nevada Business View


Mining has been the backbone of Nevada's economy throughout the state's history. And if recent news reports are any indication, this isn't likely to change any time soon. The mining industry in Nevada has been doing well in recent years. So well, in fact, that mineral exploration spending in Nevada mines is up by 31 percent and a recent survey  revelead Nevada to be the "the world's top jurisdicton for mining investment in 2018."

One of the mining industry's major players is the newly formed Nevada Gold Mines, which is expected to add approximately $480 million in value each year. Nevada Gold Mines is the result of a 2019 joint venture between Barrick Gold Corporation and Newmont Goldcorp Corporation (Read our article: 5 Important Developments in the Nevada Mining Industry in 2019 to learn more). Representatives at Nevada Gold Mines as well as the mayor of Elko are hopeful that this new venture will bring positive changes and economic growth to communities in Northern Nevada. 

Below are a few of the projected changes:

1. Less trucks on the road

By joining forces to create Nevada Gold Mines, Barrick Gold and Newmont Goldcorp now share assets and "access to each other's facilities," reports Northern Nevada Business View. This has allowed them to shorten truck routes, effectively reducing the amount of time haul trucks spend on public highways, which Nevada Gold Mines Executive Managing Director Greg Walker says will decrease public road damage and improve highway safety. Less trucks on the roads naturally "reduces opportunity for (safety) incidents," Walker told the Northern Nevada Business View.  

2. Continual job growth

Currently, 7,000 Nevadans are employed through Nevada Gold Mines. The mayor of Elko, Reece Keener, says he beleives Nevada Gold Mines and the Elko region will have a symbiotic relationship; each depending on one another to be successful. He reported to the Northern Nevada Business View that Nevada Gold Mines "are engaged in expanding local healthcare services, education and development on the economic, broadband, air service and workforce fronts, and these initiatives will move Elko forward and make us a more prosperous community, now and into the future."

3. More mining exploration

According to Walker, plans are in place for Nevada Gold Mines to explore more mines in the area over the next to two to three years. He said this will be made possible because Nevada Gold Mines has a high cash flow in additon to its own exploration group.

4. College scholarships

Nevada Gold Mines provides scholarships for those seeking an Associate or Bachelor degree in Applied Science as well as for those seeking an AAS degree in emergency medical services or nursing or a Bachelor of Arts degree in education. This means that Nevada residents who may not have previously been able to pursue an advanced degree can now become paramedics, mechanics, nurses, teachers and more. Details are available in the Elko Daily Free Press.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy equipment company that rents and sells mining equipment across Nevada and the American Southwest. Read our About Page to learn more. 

Related Posts:


	5 Important Developments in the Nevada Mining Industry in 2019
	
	Mineral Exploration Spending in Nevada Mines is up by 31%
			]]>
			</description>
				
		</item>		<item>
			<title>The 3 Most Common Types of Dozers</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/types-of-dozers</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 14 Oct 2019 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			"What type of bulldozer should I rent?" is a question we frequently hear from customers, so we decided to create a detailed guide in order to help people ascertain which bulldozer is best suited for their particular project. Below is a summary of the three types of bulldozers and a description of their various uses. We hope you find this guide helpful. 



What are Bulldozers Used For?

Before we begin to look at the types of dozers, let's first look at a definition of what a bulldozer is (and isn't). A bulldozer is a continuous-tracked or wheeled tractor recognizable by the metal plate attached at the front of the machine (called a blade). Bulldozers are used to push and excavate dirt and debris at a construction site or mining quarry. They're also used to backfill trenches, clear and level land and maintain roads. Although a bulldozer can help in the grading process, for projects that require detailed grading, a motor grader is probably better suited. 

How to Choose the Right Dozer for Your Project:

There are several factors you should consider before renting or purchasing a bulldozer. They include:


	Type of terrain the machine will be working in
	The specifics of the project
	The size of the work space 
	The type of material you'll be moving


The Three Types of Dozers



1. Wheel Dozer



Benefits: The wheel dozer's tires make it easier to move and turn.

Like the name suggests, a wheel bulldozer has wheels instead of tracks. A wheel dozer is an ideal choice for projects that require work in soft ground or sensitive surfaces, because tires inflict less disturbance on a surface than a track typically does. A wheel dozer is also a good choice for projects that require mobility and versatility. 

The wheel dozer is generally bigger than a tracked dozer and it has articulated hydraulic steering and moves on a smaller axis. 

2. Crawler Dozer



Benefits: The crawler dozer's tracks make it ideal for jobsites that have irregular or uneven terrain

The crawler dozer is the most common dozer, recognized by its tracks and the ripper at the back. Because the crawler (or track bulldozer) has tracks, it is well suited for terrain that requires traction (like muddy or slippery surfaces). 

Crawler dozers can range in size from machines with 75 horsepower that are less than 20,000 pounds and those with 900 horsepower that weigh almost 240,000 pounds.

3. Mini Bulldozer



Benefits: The mini bulldozer's small size makes it easy to maneuver around narrow jobsites.

The mini bulldozer—also called a compact bulldozer—is ideal for narrow areas or small lots, like driveways. Similar to the mini excavator, the mini bulldozer is smaller than a standard-sized bulldozer. 

Types of Blades:

It is not enough to know the type of dozer you'll need—you'll need to have a general idea of the type blade you'll need as well. The type of dozer blade attachment you should rent or buy will mainly depend on the type of material you'll be moving. Below are details on the five common types of dozer blades.

Straight Blades (S-Blade)



The S-Blade is straight, which means that its ability to lift and carry is more limited than other blades. It does not have side wings and is the shortest type of blade.

The blade's heavy weight and straight edge are what help make it the ideal choice for projects that require fine-grained material.

U-Blade



The U-Blade has large side wings and a curved design. It's ideal for pushing material across large expanses of land. It has the largest height and width of all the blade types.  

S-U Blade



Like the name suggests, the S-U blade is a combination of the S blade and the U blade, making it more versatile and stronger as a result.

Compared to a U-blade, the S-U blade has a narrower shape and is less curved. Its side wings are also smaller.

Angle Blade



Because the angle blade can angle nearly 30 degrees left or right, this two-way blade is ideal for moving debris to the side. It does not have wings, however, which means that it can spill.

Power-Angle-Tilt (PAT) Blade

 

The PAT blade is the most versatile of the dozer blades. It can angle and tilt in nearly every direction. The versatility in movement makes it ideal for spreading soil and clearing debris. 

Looking to Rent a Bulldozer?

We can help. We rent and sell bulldozers in Nevada, Utah, Idaho and across the American Southwest. Call 24/7 to speak with one of our knowledgeable rental coordinators—they're always happy to help answer whatever questions you may have—or visit our bulldozer rental page to view machine spec details.
			]]>
			</description>
				
		</item>		<item>
			<title>How to Dig Level with an Excavator</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/how-to-dig-level-with-an-excavator</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 11 Nov 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			While your first choice might be to dig a trench with a trencher, as anyone who has worked on a construction site can tell you, sometimes you have to make do with less-than-ideal circumstances. Occasionally, you may find yourself in a situation where you have to use an excavator to dig a trench. So how do you dig level with an excavator?

Below are several tried and true tips.


	Use a surveyer's level or a laser level to mark where the trench will go. Or if those aren't available, a can of spray paint can work, too.
	Get close to the target—If it's safe to do so, walk your machine to the target so that you can use your track marks to help keep you in line.
	Point your undercarriage toward where you're targeting while keeping your upper house square while you dig. You can do this by lining up the bottom of the cab with the grouser bars. Many recommend turning 180 degrees, but you actually only need to turn 90 degrees in order properly view your target.
	It can also help to position your tracks so that the trench is aligned with your left track. Then all you have to do is dig toward the inside of the track.
	Dig in layers—Instead of digging to the desired depth right away, dig a little at a time. Remove the top layer of soil and steadily work your way down.
	Keep track of the center line when digging a v-ditch by making sure the center line of the ditch is deeper than the slopes.


Remember, safety and functionality is more important than aesthetics. It can be easy to get caught up on how the trench looks, but so long as the trench is sufficiently wide and deep enough to lay the pipe in, it won't matter if it's perfectly straight.  

As it is with all heavy equipment tasks, learning how to dig the "perfect trench" with an excavator takes practice. Excavating is a skill that is difficult to learn in a classroom—It's a skill that you develop over time. With practice and by observing experienced operators at work, you'll gradually develop an intuitive "sense" of how to do it well.


At Blue Diamond Machinery, we rent and sell a range of construction equipment, including excavators, dozers, motor graders and forklifts. We invite you to browse our rental inventory listings. If you don't find something you're looking for, feel free to give us at a call at 1-800-712-4190.
			]]>
			</description>
				
		</item>		<item>
			<title>7 Construction Projects that Changed Las Vegas (and Nevada) in 2019</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/nevada-construction-projects</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 15 Nov 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Armand Thomas (@armandthomas) on Jun 13, 2019 at 11:59am PDT




2019 was a big year for Nevada, particularly for the cities of Reno and Las Vegas. The economy of both cities appears to be shifting to encompass a wider range of industries, including the cannabis industry, professional sports and the arts. What this has done is make Nevada an even more popular relocation destination. So popular, in fact, that between 2010 and 2015, Nevada saw a 7.05% population increase—One of the largest growth rates in the country.

But despite the economic expansion, Nevada always has been—and will remain for the foreseeable future—a hospitality state. This has meant the construction of more hotels, more convention centers and more homes to house the latest influx of hotel and casino workers.

Below is a roundup of seven of the biggest construction projects in Nevada in 2019.

1. Construction boom in the cannabis industry




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Everything Nevada (@everything.nv) on Sep 26, 2018 at 8:42pm PDT




Since recreational marijuana was legalized in Nevada in 2017, the Silver State has undergone a bit of a well, green, makeover. According to the Nevada Appeal, as of November 5, 2019, there were 12 cannabis and hemp projects either in the design and construction phase or completed in Nevada and California.

Miles Construction is one Northern Nevada-based construction business that has capitalized on the movement by jumping at the chance to help build a $15 million marijuana factory east of Reno for MedMen, a cannabis company based out of Los Angeles. The plant was completed in 2018 and at 45,000-square-feet, it is the largest marijuana factory in Nevada.

2. A focus on the areas beyond gaming or hotels




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Business Traveler USA (@businesstraveler_usa) on Sep 16, 2019 at 12:16pm PDT




According to the Nevada Gaming Control Board, as of February 2019, only 35 percent of total revenue generated on the Las Vegas Strip came from gambling. This has been true for decades. In fact, 2019 marked the twentieth straight fiscal year when gambling contributed to less than half of all Strip revenue. This has created a gap that developers have begun filling with non-gaming centric businesses.

Two examples of this include Area 15 and the MSG Sphere. When Area 15 was purchased back in 2006, plans were underway to make it a gaming center or hotel. 13 years later, however, when Area 15 opens, it will be a retail, entertainment and event space—no casino. The MSG Sphere, which is being built by the Madison Square Garden Company and is scheduled to open in 2021, will be an entertainment venue for concerts, award shows and corporate events. It will feature 18,000 seats and the world's largest LED screen, but like Area 15, it won't include a casino.


"It used to be that if you wanted to go gamble, you went to Vegas," says Shlomi Ronen founder of Dekel Capital, as reported in the Commercial Observer. "That's not the case anymore, with more gambling options in the U.S.. and abroad. People are coming for the experience, with some gambling alongside. From that standpoint, Vegas is only improving." 


3. New hotels in Las Vegas




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by @riverahotels on Dec 7, 2018 at 6:29am PST




Resorts World Las Vegas and The Drew Las Vegas are just two of several new large-scale resorts being built in 2019 in Nevada. And it would appear to be good timing, as no new mega resort has been built in Las Vegas since The Cosmopolitan in 2010.

The CEO of the firm behind The Drew, Steven Witkoff, told Commercial Observer that in spite of operating at 92 percent occupancy on a regular basis, "Las Vegas is the only major submarket that has seen no new supply."

4. More convention centers in Las Vegas




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by T and G (@vegasbestideas) on Aug 8, 2018 at 5:17pm PDT




In 2019, convention center attendance rose by 3.3 percent in Las Vegas. With the attendance increase has come the build-out and expansion of several convention centers, which have included:


	$76-million Expo Center at World Market Center
	The Las Vegas Convention Center $1.4 billion renovation and a $860-million expansion.
	$375-million Caesars Forum—This will add 550,000 square feet of convention space.
	The Forum Plaza—This will add 100,000-square-feet of outdoor meeting and event space and will be the first of its kind in Las Vegas.
	When The Drew Las Vegas Resort is completed, it will add 550,00-square feet of convention space.


5. More new business off the Strip




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Brad Peterson (@bradpetersonlv) on Feb 8, 2019 at 1:03pm PST




Las Vegas has been making industrial investments in the e-commerce economy, which in some ways has set the city on a similar growth path as other metropolises, like Los Angeles. Developers and business owners have also watched the recent success of retail and entertainment venues in downtown Las Vegas and are expanding the market into other areas of the city, most of which are off the Strip. All of this, in combination with the growing population, has lead to the creation of more retail spaces.

At the close of 2019, there will be an expected 1.2 million square feet of retail space added in Southern Nevada. Retailers include furniture stores, drugstores, a Costco and a new shopping center. 

But retail isn't the only industry that's seeing an off-the-Strip expansion. In 2019, Las Vegas added 127,900 square feet of new office space as well. 

6. New multifamily housing being built in Las Vegas and Reno




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Patty Duhamel | Reno Realtor (@realtorinrenonv) on Nov 18, 2019 at 8:21am PST




Demand for multifamily rentals in Southern Nevada increased by 7.8 percent in 2019, giving Las Vegas the distinction of having the highest year-over-year rental growth in the US. The increased demand for rentals is thought to be due in part by the spike in California transplants who have relocated to Nevada in recent years. 

Some of the new housing developments under construction in Las Vegas in 2019 have included:


	63-unit apartment on the corner of Casino Center Boulevard and Colorado avenue, which is scheduled to open in May 2020.
	125-unit retail apartment complex across from the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), which opened in August 2019.


Reno is also experiencing a spur in housing investment by developers from around the country. Thanks to Testa, Google and Apple all setting up centers in Northern Nevada, 3,487 new apartments are under construction in Reno in the fourth quarter of 2019, with another 6,255 planned for the near future, reports Northern Nevada Business View. 

7. Beautifying Nevada roads with public art 




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Punch Architecture (@puncharc) on Oct 15, 2019 at 11:53am PDT




According to the Review Journal, the Nevada Department of Transportation adopted a "landscape and aesthetics master plan" in 2002, which dedicated three percent of new construction and capacity improvement funds toward art and "other visual improvements" on Nevada roads. Over the last three years, NDOT has spent $20 million on landscaping and aesthetics in the Las Vegas Valley alone. 

Some of the Las Vegas-area public art were part of the Project Neon construction and included a mural depicting the Hoover Dam construction as well as several massive art sculptures. 



Blue Diamond Machinery is the premier, independently-owned heavy equipment and sales rental company in Southern Nevada, servicing all of Nevada, Utah and Idaho. Blue Diamond Machinery rents and sells a variety of construction equipment, including excavators, dozers and more. For questions or to learn more about Blue Diamond Machinery, visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com.
			]]>
			</description>
				
		</item>		<item>
			<title>5 Las Vegas Construction Projects We're Excited About in 2020</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/las-vegas-construction-projects-2020</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 16 Dec 2019 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			If you thought 2019 was a big year for Las Vegas, then you're in for a treat, because 2020 is expected to be a game changer of a year. As was reported in the Review Journal, an estimated 1,969 hotel rooms will be added in Las Vegas by the end of next year. What's more, $3.3 billion is expected to be spent on construction projects across the city.

A lot of new construction is happening in Southern Nevada at the start of this new decade—too much to be included here. But we've narrowed down the list to five projects that we're excited to see finished—not just because they're likely to be great for the city's economy but also because, as Vegas locals ourselves, we look forward to seeing our city become an even more vibrant and economically diverse place to live.

1. Raiders Stadium

Expected to open July 31, 2020




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Allegiant Stadium (@allegiantstadium) on Nov 27, 2019 at 11:40am PST




The Golden Knights showed the world that Las Vegas is a city of enthusiastic sports fans, to the surprise of many who believed hockey wouldn't be successful in a warm-weather state. But Las Vegas proved analysts wrong. The hockey team has been a tremendous money maker for the city and in 2019 Forbes awarded Knight's fans the distinction of being fourth on the list of the "best hockey fans."  

Now Nevadans are hoping to see a similar success with the addition of the city's first professional football team, the Raiders. The Raiders will be playing at the Allegiant Stadium, which is located just across the freeway from the Las Vegas Strip and is expected to be completed in spring 2020. While the team's relocation from Oakland is certainly something to look forward to, the stadium itself is a bit of a wonder—even for non-sports fans. The massive black dome-shaped venue will feature 65,000 seats, retractable doors and a translucent polymer roof. In addition to the Raiders, the stadium will also host the UNLV football team and the Las Vegas Bowl. 

2. Circa Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Expected to open December 2020




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Circa Las Vegas (@circalasvegas) on Jan 11, 2019 at 1:amphitheatre PST




Circa is still a year away from opening, but already its generating national buzz. It recently made headlines with USA Today, who wondered if Circa would achieve its goal of building "the greatest pool in the history of the world."

The 777-room resort and casino will be "the first ground-up gaming resort in historic Downtown Las Vegas since 1980" and will feature a 134-by-41-foot rooftop pool amphitheatre and six rooftop pools. The pools will be heated and the pool deck will be "temperature controlled." That's great news for the Las Vegans among us who have been wanting to extend pool sesaon beyond the heat of summer. 

At the time of writing, 600 construction workers are on site working around the clock to meet building deadlines.

3. Hard Rock Hotel remodel

Expected to be completed late fall 2020





 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Hard Rock Hotel  and  Vegas (@hardrockhotellv) on Nov 18, 2019 at 3:38pm PST




The Hard Rock Hotel has played a huge part of Las Vegas history and the city's landscape since its grand opening in 1995. But as has been true for many of the city's landmark resorts, the Hard Rock will soon be no more—It was purchased by Virgin Group in 2018. But fortunately, it's not going away, it's only undergoing a $150-million remodel. In addition to a new name—It will be called the Virgin Hotel Las Vegas—the property will also receive a new 60,000-square-foot expanded casino floor, new restaurants, renovated rooms and upgrades to its pool deck.

4. Downtown Las Vegas Expo Center

Expected to open summer of 2020




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Perfecto Quiachon III (@prinsipeaburido) on Aug 4, 2018 at 11:19pm PDT




With convention center attendance on the increase in 2019, the city is more than prepared to welcome the addition of another convention center. We're excited that the 315,000-square-foot center is located downtown in the Arts District. Although the Arts District has been a favorite haunt of locals for decades, it's just beginning to garner attention from the city's tourism industry. The convention facility will be built near West Symphony Park Avenue, where the World Expo Center's Pavilion tents are currently located.

The convention center is expected to be able to accommodate as many as 1,000 booths. 

Located near the convention center will be Marriott's 406-room AC Hotel. The AC hotel is expected to open in the summer of 2020.

5. Google data center

Expected to open in December 2020




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Las Vegas Review-Journal (@reviewjournal) on Nov 17, 2018 at 9:08am PST




Las Vegas isn't the only Southern Nevada city seeing big developments in 2020. At the end of next year, Henderson will celebrate the opening of a $600 million Google data center. As Southern Nevada residents, we're excited about this project because it will mean more jobs—Google is expected to need 200 full-time employees—and it will also mean that the city of Henderson will likely become an even more attractive place for big and small businesses alike.


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. We are headquartered in Las Vegas and service all of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. Visit www.heavyequipmentrentals.com to learn more. 
			]]>
			</description>
				
		</item>		<item>
			<title>Construction in Northern Nevada is Booming</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/construction-in-northern-nevada-is-booming</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2020 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			"We are blessed right now. Everyone who is in construction and is making good decisions and meeting their commitments should have opportunity to build for many years to come." 

- Jarrett Rosenau, president of Clark  and 's Nevada operations, as quoted in the Northern Nevada Business Review


October 2019 was an outstanding month for Nevada's construction industry—construction employment across the state increased by nearly 12 percent, with the addition of 10,500 new jobs, reports Nevada's Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation. This spike in hiring means the construction sector is now the industry with the fastest job growth in the entire state.

Although Las Vegas may have made national headlines in 2019 for its flashy and high-tech projects—like the MSG Sphere and the high-speed rail line, for example—Reno and other Northern Nevada communities have seen a tremendous amount of development as well. 

Construction Boom in Reno




 


 

 



 




View this post on Instagram


 



 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 




 

 


A post shared by Biggest Little Streets (@biggestlittlestreets) on Dec 7, 2019 at 12:51pm PST




Across the greater Reno-Sparks area, development has been underway in nearly all sectors of commercial real estate. Residential real estate has seen an increase, too, with thousands of new houses added to the market in 2019.

And the construction demand isn't predicted to slow down in 2020 either, thanks to both the job increase and the population rise that's been steadily climbing in Northern Nevada year after year. However, even if the economy does slow down, the Northern Nevada Business Review reports that the Reno-Sparks area is still likely to be a great investment for developers. 

This is remarkable considering that as recently as just five years ago, Reno was still reeling from the recession and housing bust. A lot has changed in a relatively short amount of time. 

Not Enough Workers to Meet Demand




 


 

 



 




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A post shared by Studio BBA (@studio_bba) on Mar 20, 2019 at 11:09am PDT




The state's rise in popularity hasn't been without its challenges, however. The construction workforce in Northern Nevada has been struggling to keep pace with demand. Both during and after the recession, many construction workers retired, moved away from the area or else left the construction industry entirely. As has been the problem nationally, not enough new workers have stepped in to take their place, making recruitment efforts difficult.

This has meant that those employed in the construction industry have had to work some long hours in order to meet deadlines.

"We need about 6,000 new housing units in the region per year, and that includes all types of housing. We have yet to hit 5,000 units since the recession, and that's causing a lack of supply that's driving prices up," Mike Kazmierski, president and chief executive officer of the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada, told the Northern Nevada Business Review.

Currently, an estimated 105,000 people are employed by the construction industry in Nevada. 


About Blue Diamond Machinery: Blue Diamond Machinery is an independently-owned heavy equipment company that rents heavy equipment across Nevada and the American Southwest. Read our About Page to learn more. 
			]]>
			</description>
				
		</item>		<item>
			<title>Light Tower Rental Tips: 3 Things to Know Before Renting Outdoor Lighting</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/light-tower-rental-tips</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 13 Jan 2020 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			We recently received a call from a school that was looking to rent a few light towers for an event they were hosting. After speaking with the customer for a few minutes, it became apparent that he did not have all the information he needed in order for us to be able to fulfill his request. This can happen from time to time. A supervisor may ask his assistant to call and rent a piece of equipment, but forget to provide all of the needed details, such as the scope of work or length of the job, for instance.

While we were able to ascertain what he needed and provide light towers for his event, a lot of the back and forth could have been eliminated if the customer had known a little more about how light towers work and the various options available.

In effort to be as helpful as possible, we've compiled a few of the most important pieces of information you'll need to know when beginning your search for a light tower rental company.

1. Lighting Requirements—How big is the space?

The first question your rental company will want answered is an estimate of how big of an area you'll need to illuminate. You'll also need to let the company know what you'll be using the lighting for, as a construction site or mine may demand brighter lighting than a county fair.

Of course, every job is different, but here are a few general guidelines that should help get you started:


	Construction jobsite—You'll need at least 10 footcandles of illumination to adequately illuminate a jobsite at night.
	Parking lot, field, fair ground, etc.—You'll need one to five footcandles.


Regardless of your specific needs, however, you'll want a light tower that can reach a minimum height of 20 feet and rotate 360 degrees. Even the most basic of light towers, however, should be able to meet both of those requirements.

2. Lighting Power—How many hours will you need it to run?

The second question you'll need to answer is how long you'll need the light towers to run. Some light towers, for example, can last more than 200 hours before they need to be refueled or recharged while others, such as the Wacker Neuson LTV6K Light Tower, lasts a little over 64 hours. How long a light tower can run is determined by the type of bulb—LED or metal-halide—and the tower's fuel tank capacity. Your light tower rental company will be able to determine which type you need based on your specific event or jobsite requirements.

3. Conditions of the Jobsite—Is weather a factor?

Some light towers are more rugged and durable than others, so it's important to determine whether your job or event site will be located in an area that's remote or prone to extreme weather. If you're located in an area where fuel refills aren't regular, you may want to rent a light tower that is more long-lasting or fuel efficient, such as a solar-powered or LED light tower.  If you're working in extremely windy, rainy or cold conditions, you may want to consider a light tower that has a heavy-duty polyethylene canopy in order to increase durability.

4. Transportation—How will you transport the towers?

Most equipment rental companies will be able to provide light tower transportation to and from your site for a fee, but you should always double check just in case. While light towers have become smaller and more compact over the years, you shouldn't expect to be able to squeeze one into the back of your car. At the very least, you'll need a truck, and you may even need a forklift to help unload the light tower and position it into place. Light towers can be heavy. The Wacker Neuson LTV6K Light Tower, for instance, has an operating weight of 1,790 pounds.

5. Length of Time—How many days/weeks/months are you looking to rent?

A quality equipment rental company will be able to provide you with a daily, weekly or monthly rate for the light towers and any other pieces of equipment you may need. Even if you only plan on renting the light towers for a long weekend, it's a good idea to compare the daily rate with the weekly rate, as occasionally the weekly rate is actually less expensive.

It's also a good idea to weigh your options and consider purchasing a light tower instead, particularly if you're going to need that light tower for several months. For example, we're currently selling light towers for a little less than $6,000 a piece. If you need to rent a light tower for two or more months, it'd actually be more cost effective to purchase a light tower in lieu of renting.




At Blue Diamond Machinery, we rent and sell a range of construction equipment, including excavators, dozers, motor graders and light towers. We invite you to browse our rental inventory listings. If you don't find something you're looking for, feel free to give us at a call at 1-800-712-4190.
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>Telehandler vs Forklift: 5 Important Differences</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/telehandler-vs-forklift</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 26 Feb 2020 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			In the construction industry we often use the terms "telehandler" and "forklift" to refer to the same machine. But the reality is that a telehandler and a forklift are actually two different pieces of equipment. Knowing the difference is important whether you're renting or buying.

Below are a few of the distinct ways the two machines differ.


	
	Telehandlers are more versatile
	


Forklifts typically lift loads vertically whereas telehandlers are used to lift loads forwards, backwards and side to side. Telehandlers—or "telescoping handlers"—can do this by extending their boom at a diagonal angle. While both telehandlers and forklifts can lift and move objects, telehandlers are considered more versatile because they can do so without having to move anything other than their boom.


	
	Forklifts are more compact
	


Because of their generally smaller size, forklifts are quick and easy to move, making them ideal for use in narrow spaces, such as the aisles of a warehouse. They're also a great choice for loading and off-loading equipment from trucks.


	
	Telehandlers are better for outdoor areas
	


While forklifts can be used outdoors if need be, if the terrain is rugged or a surface is uneven, a telehandler is your better choice.

Because telehandlers have a triangular footprint, they're better able to remain stable in rocky terrain. Some models come with hydraulic systems or outriggers for further stability, which can help if you're operating the telehandler on a slope. 


	
	Telehandlers have better reach
	


Telehandlers generally have a higher reach than forklifts—up to 30 or more feet. Forklifts, on the other hand, typically can only lift a load a few feet. As mentioned before, because it has a boom, the telehandler can lift at about a 70-degree angle. In that way, a telehandler is similar to a crane. In fact, some equipment managers prefer to rent telehandlers instead of booms because they have better mobility and are typically less expensive.


	
	Both telehandlers and forklifts can be equipped with attachments
	


When forklifts or telehandlers are equipped with attachments, they can serve as substitutes for backhoe loaders and tractor loaders, helping to move gravel, dirt and even snow. Attachments can run the range from carriages, hooks and buckets to truss booms and specialty attachments, such as work platforms, sweepers and augers.




Blue Diamond Machinery is the premier, independently-owned heavy equipment and sales rental company in Southern Nevada, servicing all of Nevada, Utah and Idaho. Blue Diamond Machinery rents and sells a variety of construction equipment, including excavators, dozers, telehandlers and more. View our entire rental inventory at: https://www.heavyequipmentrentals.com/rentals/categories.
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>Top Construction Trends to Watch in 2020</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/construction-trends-2020</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2020 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			The construction industry gets a lot of flack for being slow to adjust to change—especially where technology is concerned—but as these 2020 construction trends will show, that may soon change. Below is a list of the top construction trends of 2020—both the positive and the negative.

The Positive Trends

1. Increase Use of Drones 

More construction companies are using drones in 2020. In fact, year over year, drone use on construction sites has risen by 239 percent. This is true for several reasons. First, drones can be used to help map large areas not easily reached by vehicles. Second, drones not only allow people to make quick decisions, but they also help to improve the safety of both workers and equipment. Drones help workers examine areas that are too high or too dangerous to reach using manpower alone. Read: 3 Ways Technology is Impacting the Construction Industry. 

2. More Reliance on Augmented Reality (AR)

This year, builders are continuing to rely more on Augmented Reality (AR) as a visual aide and simulation tool. AR works as an effective communication tool during the pre-construction stage because it can show clients and team members projections of what the project will look like when completed as well as throughout every stage of the building process. AR also uses 3D simulation, which can be helpful when simulating any structural changes a building may need. AR can also be a useful aide in safety training. 

3. Rise in Popularity of Modular and Prefabricated Construction

Due to the labor shortage and the growing cost of materials, modular and prefabricated construction has been gaining in popularity in recent years—and this is expected to continue in 2020. In fact, according to Construction Dive, modular construction will continue to increase by 6.9 percent per year. It isn't just smaller projects that are going modular either. The average modular project square footage is 200,000 square feet.

4. More High-Tech Safety Equipment

Exoskeleton suits—The robotic tech that turns construction workers into real-life versions of Iron Man—have gotten a lot of attention in recent years, and for good reason. The suits' power-assist technology can make lifted loads feel a lot lighter or even entirely weightless. But there's also a wide variety of safety tech being used more heavily in the construction industry that may not receive as much press but are just as useful. Wi-Fi-connected work boots alert team members if a worker falls, for instance, and some robotics can help reduce muscle strain. There are unpowered versions of exoskeletons, for instance, that help to improve posture and reduce pressure to the body through the use of counterweights. Environmental sensors that detect heat, wind or toxins—such as asbestos—are also being used more frequently in order to protect both workers and equipment. 

The Negative Trends

5. Continued Labor Shortage

Unfortunately, the construction labor shortage continues to persist in 2020. What's more, attracting new talent is getting more expensive and the competition over a small pool of qualified applicants is just as fierce as ever. The industry has responded to the shortage by ramping up its effort to recruit women as well as workers in Generation Z (those born between 1995 and 2010). But the numbers aren't yet where they need to be to replace the high volume of construction industry workers who have retired or left the industry entirely. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 9.9 percent of construction industry workers are female. And despite the $1.3 billion per year Congress has earmarked for careers and technical education, Millennials and Gen Z-ers are still passing over trade school in favor of four year college degrees. 

6. Rising Cost of Construction Materials

Construction materials may continue to remain pricey. According to the Association of General Contractors, construction material costs were increasing by 7.4 percent year over year as of October 2018. Tariffs may be partly to blame as well as the increased public demand for cutting-edge building material, such as self-healing and light generating concrete or transparent aluminum. 

7. Financial Damage Due to Weather Events

The recent increase in wildfires, hurricanes and extreme temperature shifts has had a negative effect on everyone, including builders and developers. Because extreme weather events appear to be on the rise, insurance companies have increased their rates or made policy changes that exclude coverage of wildfires or other specific weather-related damage. Construction companies are taking preventive measures to keep their business and equipment safe by constructing barriers around worksite and upping their insurance coverage.

8. More Cyber Attacks

Cyber security has received a lot of media attention so far in 2020. An unfortunate side effect of construction businesses becoming more dependent on tech and AI, such as robotics, drones, GPS, etc, is that they're now more vulnerable to malicious cyber attacks. The construction industry has been proactive about properly securing buildings and equipment, but in 2020, the industry will need to do more to prevent employees from succumbing to computer hacks and email phishing campaigns. 

Sources: 

Construction Industry Trends You Must Know For 2020

Top Issues and Trends for Construction Contractors to Watch in 2020


Blue Diamond Machinery is a construction equipment rentals and sales company that operates in Nevada, Utah and Idaho. We rent and sell a range of construction equipment, including excavators, bulldozers, motor graders and rock trucks. We invite you to browse our rental inventory listings, and if you don't find something you're looking for, feel free to give us at a call at 1-800-712-4190.
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>Let's Work Together to Keep Nevada Going</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/keep-nevada-going</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2020 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			As all Nevadans are more than aware, our state is struggling right now. According to a recent report, Nevada's economy is one of the most at risk from damage from the Coronavirus — In fact, it ranks as the third "most exposed" in the nation, above only Louisiana and Rhode Island. Unemployment is at a record-breaking 22% as many businesses struggle to stay afloat.

As Nevada residents and members of the small business community, it's been heartbreaking watching our cities stumble and our favorite local businesses grapple with tough decisions.

We want all of our customers to know that we are here for you. We care deeply about all of the Nevada communities we serve, and we want to do all that we can to ensure that Nevada comes out of this crisis stronger than ever.

Nevadans are hard-working, thick-skinned and a pioneering group of people. Our state has weathered some bad circumstances over the years and we're confident that we will fight through this one as well. 

If you need any equipment for your next project or are simply looking for machinery advice, we are here and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Reach out — Let's work together to keep Nevada going.
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		</item>		<item>
			<title>Blue Diamond Machinery Welcomes New Rental Sales and Marketing Territory Manager</title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/new-rental-sales-marketing-territory-manager</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 02 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0700</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Experienced equipment manager Justin Kley to oversee Blue Diamond Machinery's Northern Nevada service area.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Blue Diamond Machinery

Phone: 702-718-0088 

Elko, Nevada—September 1, 2020—Blue Diamond Machinery is excited to announce the hiring of Justin Kley as the company's new rental sales and marketing territory manager for Northern Nevada.

Kley, who will be based out of Elko, Nevada, brings to the role a wealth of experience in the construction, equipment rental and mining industries. Over a 20-year career, Kley has worked as a service manager, outside sales representative, environmental health and safety coordinator and branch manager. His extensive leadership experience will likely serve him well as he works to further drive Blue Diamond Machinery's expansion into the Northern Nevada market.

Kley's top priority, however, will be to focus on developing strong relationships with Blue Diamond Machinery's current and future customer base. "I look forward to being able to help customers find solutions," Kley said.

This focus aligns well with Blue Diamond Machinery's mission, which has always been to deliver superior customer service.

"We were eager to hire Justin because he understands how important our customers are to our business," says Blue Diamond Machinery's President and CEO Curry Smythe. "It's important that we are available 24/7 to provide helpful and friendly service to our customers whenever they need it."

Kley is excited to be the part of the growth of the Elko market. He likes that he'll be a vital and necessary member of the team and expects his new job will be an interesting challenge. "Blue Diamond is still relatively new and upcoming in the Elko area, and it'll be exciting to work on getting the name known."

Kley is no stranger to the Elko area—he's been an Elko resident since 1998, when he relocated from Salt Lake City, Utah. In his free time, Kley enjoys camping, coaching his kids' sports teams and watching football.

 

About Blue Diamond Machinery

Blue Diamond Machinery is a premier, independently owned heavy equipment rental and sales company. From our headquarters in Las Vegas, we proudly service all of Nevada, Utah, and Arizona. Our growing team of employees have over 65 years in the construction industry. To learn more, visit us at HeavyEquipmentRentals.com.

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			<title>Blue Diamond Machinery has joined forces with Heavy Metal Equipment  and </title>
			<link>https://www.4wall.com/about/press/blue-diamond-machinery-has-joined-forces-with-heavy-metal-equipment-rentals</link>
			<comments></comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 23 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>

			<description>
			<![CDATA[
			Elko, NV - We are pleased to announce that Blue Diamond Machinery, a premier Nevada based heavy equipment rental company has joined forces with Heavy Metal Equipment  and  based out of Alberta, Canada.

Heavy Metal Equipment  and  ("HME") is a world leader in providing fully maintained heavy equipment rentals, with extensive experience operating in remote mine sites under challenging environmental conditions. Curry Smythe, current owner of Blue Diamond Machinery, has assumed the role of HME's Vice President, United States Operations and will continue to be based out of Elko, NV.

Curry, owner of Blue Diamond Machinery, spoke of the transaction:

"We are excited about what this partnership means for the employees and customers of Heavy Metal Equipment. Access to a more extensive rental fleet with the addition of large mining equipment means a greater opportunity to serve our local market. I also want to emphasize that the people behind Blue Diamond are the bedrock of this company. There will be no workforce reductions, but the larger and more complex fleet and customer base will provide additional career development opportunities for our people." 

Jesse van der Werf, President, CEO and co-founder of Heavy Metal Equipment  and  highlighted this fact:

"This is a very exciting time for Heavy Metal Equipment  and  Bringing Blue Diamond Machinery into the HME family will accelerate our already successful expansion into the United States and we look forward to building upon the strong foundation that the people behind Blue Diamond have laid out."

Current customers and vendors of Blue Diamond Machinery can expect a smooth transition over the next few months.
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