Pool Plumbing Contractor — The Flow That Fuels the Backyard Oasis

Pool Plumbing Contractor — The Flow That Fuels the Backyard Oasis

When most people think of plumbers, they picture someone fixing a leaky faucet or unclogging a drain. But there’s a specialized side of plumbing that keeps backyard oases and resort pools running smoothly: pool plumbing contractors.

These pros design and maintain the hidden systems that make pools and spas work. From the moment a pool is built, they’re laying out underground water lines, connecting pumps and filters, and ensuring proper drainage and water flow. It’s a mix of engineering and craftsmanship that impacts everything from water clarity to safety.

Pool plumbers also handle:

  • Circulation Systems: Installing skimmers, returns, and suction lines to keep water moving and filtered.

  • Heater & Gas Line Hookups: Ensuring cozy warm water for those evening swims.

  • Leak Detection & Repairs: Using specialized tools to locate and fix underground leaks before they wreak havoc.

  • Seasonal Services: In many regions, plumbers open pools in spring and winterize them before the cold sets in.

Industry Outlook & Career Pathways

Education & Development:
Most pool plumbers start with a general plumbing apprenticeship (4–5 years) and may supplement training with community college or trade school courses. Licensing exams follow, and pool-specific certifications can further boost credentials:

  • CPO (Certified Pool & Spa Operator) – foundational knowledge in water chemistry and equipment operations

  • CMS, CST, CSP – advanced tiers covering maintenance, filtration, electrical troubleshooting, and full-service professionalism

Income Potential:

Level

Approximate Annual Earnings (U.S.)

Apprentice

~$39,000

Journeyman

~$60,000–$63,000

Master/Specialist

$95,000+

Job Outlook:

  • General plumbing is projected to grow 6% from 2023–2033, with about 43,300 new jobs opening annually.

  • Pool specialists benefit from labor shortages, luxury pool demand, and seasonal spikes.

High-Demand Areas:

  • Sunbelt states, resort communities, and fast-growing suburban areas.

  • Commercial and public pools, including gyms, hotels, and recreational centers, often require certified operators.

  • Many skilled plumbers eventually launch their own pool service companies, especially where residential pool markets are booming.

Why This Career is Exciting:
Pool plumbing blends outdoor work, technical skill, and visible results. You’re not just fixing leaks — you’re building experiences that families and communities enjoy for years. For those who want variety, problem-solving, and the chance to grow their own business, this is a rewarding niche.

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Landscape Meme for Monday
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Landscape Meme for Monday

Most people see a yard full of grass and think it’s just mowing. But landscapers know better—behind every neat row of stripes is hours of sweat, precision, and sometimes weekends lost to catch-up jobs. Landscaping isn’t just about cutting grass—it’s about shaping environments. From early morning starts to the last cleanup of the day, landscapers hustle in the heat and keep neighborhoods looking sharp. So the next time you admire that perfect front yard, remember—someone spent overtime turning weeds into curb appeal.

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Belt Up and Breathe: The Clip-On Fan That helps you get that honey do list cleared
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Belt Up and Breathe: The Clip-On Fan That helps you get that honey do list cleared

You ever hit that point mid-shift where you’re sweating through your shirt, your gloves are soaked, and your only shade is the shadow of your hard hat? Yeah, us too. That’s why this clip-on portable fan is officially going on our “don’t-leave-home-without-it” list.

This isn’t some gimmicky gadget. It’s a 10,000mAh battery-powered, belt-mounted beast designed to pump airflow up your shirt, your back, or your chest—right where you need it most.

It’s rugged, rechargeable, and gives tradesmen a fighting chance in brutal summer heat without tying up your hands or hanging off your neck like a tourist in Orlando.

🔧 What Makes This Fan Worth It?

  • Belt-Mounted Design
    Just clip it on, aim the air where you want it, and get to work. It stays put while you bend, climb, or crawl.

  • Hands-Free Airflow
    Blows cool air right up your shirt—especially useful under safety gear or coveralls.

  • 3 Speeds + Directional Vent
    You choose the power. Point the vent to your chest, back, or wherever needs cooling most.

  • Massive 10,000mAh Rechargeable Battery
    Translation: it’ll last longer than your patience in July. Easily powers a full shift without quitting.

  • Quiet Motor
    You won’t have to yell over it—or hear your coworker complain about the noise.

👷 Why Blue Collar Crews Are Adding It to Their Loadout

  • Electricians in attics.

  • Plumbers under sinks.

  • Framers working outside.

  • Drywallers sweating in sealed spaces.

  • Delivery drivers roasting between stops.

Anyone who sweats for a living can benefit from airflow where they didn’t know they needed it.

💬 Real Talk from the Crew

“Feels like AC in a tool belt. Not kidding—game changer on hot days.”
— Nate, Drywaller

“Worked 9 hours hanging lights in a sealed attic. Fan never quit. Neither did I.”
— Javi, Residential Electrician

“Didn’t expect much. Now I’m telling the whole crew to get one.”
— Caleb, Commercial Plumber

⚙️ Quick Specs

FeatureBenefit to YouBelt clip mountStays in place—out of the way but always working3 fan speedsChoose how much breeze you wantRotating air ventAim it where you need it most10,000mAh batteryRuns longer than your shiftUSB rechargeableNo fuss charging with any USB port

🚨 From The Blue Collar Boyfriend

Nobody gets a medal for suffering through the heat. You want to perform at your best, work safer, and last longer on-site? Then make room for this belt clip fan. It's one of those rare gadgets that actually earns its keep, especially when the mercury spikes.

Stay sharp, stay dry, and let your gear do more of the grunt work.

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Stay Dry, Look Sharp: Duluth’s Dry on the Fly Untucked Crew
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Stay Dry, Look Sharp: Duluth’s Dry on the Fly Untucked Crew

There’s sweaty. There’s soaked. And then there’s working hard all day in a shirt that still feels like dry cotton by quitting time—that’s where Duluth’s Dry on the Fly® Twill Crew lives.

This isn’t your stiff, scratchy tech tee. The untucked relaxed fit short‑sleeve crew blends drirelease® performance fabric that actually wicks and dries—that breathes like cotton, but acts like moisture-wicking tech gear.

Here’s the rundown:

  • Soft, breathable, and sweat-ready. Kelly from Duluth said it’s a little warmer than expected—but once your day gets sweaty, it dries fast and stays comfortable Duluth Trading Company.

  • Moisture moves, not stays put. No weird chemical coating—this fabric structure channels sweat away, dries quick, and only feels fresh longer Duluth Trading Company+1Duluth Trading Company+1.

  • Zero cling, zero bunch, zero chafe. Duluth designed it with side vents and stretch-friendly cuts so overhead work or bending doesn’t create shirt drama. That untucked length is meant to hit just below the belt—respectable and functional Duluth Trading CompanyDuluth Trading Company.

✅ Why It Makes Work Better

  • Keeps you cool when the sweat starts stacking. Heat or exertion shouldn’t leave you feeling like you’re wearing a sponge.

  • Flexible fit means no riding up. Especially if you’re lifting, reaching, or hauling drywall.

  • Untucked style fits into work pants without flapping. Gives coverage without the baggy package.

  • Built by a brand that stands behind what they make. Duluth’s known for quality that feels like it’ll last, not fall apart after a few washes Reddit.

🗣️ What People Are Saying

From Duluth shoppers:

“Very comfortable, not the heavy cotton feel… dry out fast after you get sweaty.” Duluth Trading Company+10Duluth Trading Company+10Duluth Trading Company+10

From Reddit’s BuyItForLife community:

“Felt way higher quality than it had a right to be at the price.” Rokslide+2Reddit+2Reddit+2

Free reviews:

“Relaxed fit, wicking, soft, comfortable. Wears great for travel or jobsites.” Duluth Trading Company

💬 Final Word from The Blue Collar Boyfriend

You don't need fussy tech-wear that looks silly after two washes—or classic cotton that weighs you down after lunch. You need honesty and utility, printed in every fiber.

This Duluth Dry on the Fly® Untucked Crew is a solid bet: light, breathable, durable—and it keeps you feeling clean, not clammy—on the job or on the go.

Long day ahead? Put this on. Leave the sweaty regrets in your gear bag.

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Rollin’ Deep: The Tool Bag That’s Built for the Chaos We Call Work
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Rollin’ Deep: The Tool Bag That’s Built for the Chaos We Call Work

Let’s get one thing straight—if your tool bag is basically a black hole where bits, blades, and Allen wrenches go to die, you’re not alone. Most of us are still digging through old canvas bags that look like they’ve been through a demolition derby.

That’s where the Ryker Roll-Up Tool Bag comes in. It's not just an organizer—it's your daily gear command center, rolled up and ready to ride.

Why This Tool Roll Works Harder Than Your Last One:

🎯 Four Zip Pouches. Endless Organization.
Each detachable pouch is clear-faced and built tough. That means you can actually see your stuff without dumping it all out on the tailgate. Keep screws in one, drivers in another, and maybe even dedicate a pouch for the mystery parts that keep showing up in your toolbox.

🛠️ Built for the Grind
This isn’t some flimsy weekend-warrior tote. The Ryker roll is crafted from heavy-duty materials that won’t rip, sag, or give out after a couple of shifts. Whether it's rattling around in the back of the van or slung over your shoulder, it’s ready for rough days.

🚚 Perfect for the Mobile Tradesman
Electrician? HVAC tech? Plumber on the go? This roll-up bag is made for job-hoppers who need quick access, easy storage, and a clean pack-up when the day’s done. Toss it in your truck, strap it to your ladder rack, or hang it in the garage—you're set.

🎒 Versatile as Hell
Use it as a main tool bag, or a side kit for specialty stuff—like electrical, plumbing, or drywall patching. Some guys even turn one into a first-aid or spare parts roll. You do you.

Why We Like It:
The Ryker roll-up tool bag is one of those rare buys that just makes sense. It cuts down your search time, keeps your gear clean, and gives your setup a professional edge—even if the rest of the truck’s a disaster.

From the Bench of the Blue Collar Boyfriend:
When you’re chasing down jobs, every minute counts—and digging for a Phillips bit through a knot of tangled tools wastes more time than a Monday morning meeting. The Ryker bag keeps your head clear and your tools ready.

It rolls up, locks down, and keeps you working smarter—not harder.

Highly recommend it for the tradesman who’s tired of the chaos—and ready to roll with something better.

Need help deciding how to load it out for your trade? Drop a comment or shoot us a DM—we’ll give you a layout idea based on what you do best.

—The Blue Collar Boyfriend

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Bright Ideas for Dark Jobs: Light Up Your Work Van Like a Pro
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Bright Ideas for Dark Jobs: Light Up Your Work Van Like a Pro

There’s nothing worse than trying to find a small part or tool in the back of your van at 5 a.m. with a half-dead flashlight clenched between your teeth. Whether you're chasing daylight on a jobsite or digging through your mobile tool cave in the dark, good lighting makes the difference between getting it done—or getting ticked off.

Enter the LED Interior Light Bar Strip Kit—the kind of upgrade that makes you wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

Here’s why it’s worth it:

🔦 Plug-and-Play Simplicity
No complicated wiring harnesses or electrical degree required. This kit comes ready to slap in your work van, trailer, or even your tool shed. Stick it, hook it up, and boom—instant daylight.

💡 Blindingly Bright (In a Good Way)
Each strip kicks out enough lumens to turn your mobile workspace into a rolling showroom. Whether you're hunting for a deep socket, checking paperwork, or prepping tools for the next job, this setup lights up every nook and cranny.

🚐 Built for the Hustle
Flexible, low-profile, and vibration-resistant—this lighting kit is made for the real world. It doesn’t care if your van hits potholes or if you slam the doors shut ten times a day. It just works.

🔌 12V Compatibility
Perfect for vans, trailers, campers, work trucks, and any other rig you call HQ on wheels. Power it straight from your vehicle battery and let there be light—without draining your wallet.

Who’s This For?

  • Electricians with cluttered vans

  • HVAC techs working before sunrise

  • Plumbers on emergency weekend calls

  • Mobile welders, remodelers, and DIY kings

Basically: If you’ve got a rig, this light rig’s for you.

Final Word from the Jobsite:
You don’t have to settle for shadows. A simple, affordable lighting upgrade can save you time, stress, and even your sanity. Light it up, get organized, and keep that work van running like a well-lit command center.

You handle the work.
Let these lights handle the dark.

—The Blue Collar Boyfriend

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Dive Into a Career: Inground Pool Installer
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Dive Into a Career: Inground Pool Installer

When the summer sun hits hard, nothing beats the cool relief of a backyard pool. But before anyone’s cannonballing in, there’s a skilled crew behind the scenes making it happen — the inground pool installers. If you want a career that’s hands-on, seasonal but steady, and pays well for solid work, pool installation could be your ticket.

🏊 How to Get Started

No college degree? No problem. Most pool installers get started through:

  • Entry-level jobs with pool companies: You’ll learn on the job, helping dig trenches, set forms, and assemble pool shells.

  • Apprenticeships or labor positions: Many begin as general laborers before moving up to specialized roles.

  • Vocational training or certifications: Look for programs offering courses on pool construction, plumbing, and electrical basics. Certifications from organizations like the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) can boost your resume.

  • OSHA and safety training: Working around heavy equipment, excavation, and electrical connections means safety training is non-negotiable.

🛠️ Training & Skill Development

Being a pool installer isn’t just digging a hole and filling it with water. It takes:

  • Physical stamina: You’ll be working outdoors, lifting heavy materials, and operating machinery.

  • Technical skills: Installing plumbing lines, wiring pumps and heaters, and ensuring proper drainage and waterproofing.

  • Blueprint reading: Knowing how to follow detailed pool designs.

  • Problem solving: Every yard is different — sometimes the soil or underground obstacles throw a wrench in the plan.

  • Teamwork: Pool installation is a team effort, so communication on the jobsite matters.

💰 What’s the Pay Like?

Pay can vary based on experience, region, and company size, but here’s a ballpark:

RoleHourly RateAnnual Salary RangeEntry-Level Laborer$13 – $18$27,000 – $37,000Skilled Installer$18 – $25$37,000 – $52,000Foreman / Supervisor$25 – $32$52,000 – $66,000+Specialized Tech$30+$62,000+

Many installers work seasonally, but with maintenance and repair gigs, there can be year-round opportunities.

📈 Job Outlook & Growth

The demand for inground pools keeps growing, especially in warmer climates and suburban neighborhoods where homeowners want outdoor living upgrades. New pool installations and pool renovations create a steady stream of jobs.

Plus, if you stick with it and develop skills in pool electrical systems, automation, or landscaping integration, you’ll boost your value and income.

🔹 Final Thoughts from The Blue Collar Boyfriend

Inground pool installation isn’t just digging holes and hauling concrete — it’s a skilled trade that blends physical labor with technical know-how. If you like working outside, tackling tough jobs, and building something that brings people joy for years, this career deserves a spot on your radar.

Grab your boots, learn the ropes, and dive into a trade that keeps your work cool — literally.

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Reviewing Blueprints Like He’s Diffusing a Bomb—Because Sometimes, He Is
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Reviewing Blueprints Like He’s Diffusing a Bomb—Because Sometimes, He Is

You ever watch a tradesman squinting at a set of blueprints like he’s trying to cut the right wire on a ticking bomb? That’s not just overthinking—it’s precision under pressure.

Because when it comes to the trades, it’s not just lines on paper. It’s where the water flows, where the wires run, where the walls stand, and where the safety lies. One wrong measurement and suddenly a week’s worth of work needs ripping out and redoing. Or worse—someone gets hurt.

This kind of focus doesn’t come from sitting in a classroom. It comes from years on the job. From standing in the rain troubleshooting a busted junction box. From fixing what the last guy “eyeballed.” From caring about the end result because someone’s home, business, or safety depends on getting it right.

So yeah—he’s studying that print like it might explode. Because missing something could mean costly callbacks, structural headaches, or an inspector breathing down your neck. And no one’s got time for that.

The Takeaway?
Tradesmen don’t just work with their hands—they work with their heads. And when you see one deep in thought over a set of prints, respect the grind. That’s not just blue ink on paper. That’s a blueprint for getting the job done right, the first time.

Stay sharp. Build strong. Sweat the details.
—The Blue Collar Boyfriend

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Stop Digging. Clip Your Pencil to Your Hat Instead.
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Stop Digging. Clip Your Pencil to Your Hat Instead.

🧰 What This Clip Does:

It slots right into your hard hat's accessory track and holds one carpenter’s pencil and one marker, easy. Strong PETG plastic grips them snugly and keeps them handy when you're bending, climbing, or lugging gear. No more dropping your sharpie in a puddle of sawdust ☑️YouTube+15Amazon+15Amazon+15Amazon

✅ Why It Belongs on Every Lid:

  • Hands-free tool convenience – No more digging through pockets while balancing on a lift.

  • Simple and lightweight – Adds minimal bulk or weight—just utility where you need it.

  • Fits most hard hat systems – No special brand or proprietary headgear needed.Amazon

  • Made in the USA – Designed and packaged right here in New Hampshire.Amazon

⚠️ Heads-Up from the Field:

Some users point out the plastic isn’t invincible—lots of flex or heavy use can lead to cracking or loosened grip over timeAmazon+2Amazon+2RITE ACADEMY+2. Others found it didn’t fit newer hard hat models or felt it was a tad pricey for a 3D-printed partAmazon+6Amazon+6Amazon+6.

🗣️ What the Crew Says:

Long-time users report:

“Holds pencil and a small sharpie. Works great.”
“Super functional. Never looking for a pen or pencil anymore.”Amazon

But a few others flagged early breakage or fit issues with certain hard hat stylesAmazonAmazon.

💬 Final Word from the Blue Collar Boyfriend:

You’re not a kid in shop class—you’re a tradesperson who’s serious about efficiency. This clip won’t overhaul your gear, but it will stop the frustration of misplaced pencils and lost time. Stick it on your hard hat, clip your marker in, and mark confidently—without fumbling in wet pockets or dropping tools into a crawlspace vat.

Hard Hat Clip Collection – Marker & Pencil Holder: because your mark shouldn’t vanish with the dust.

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Tougher Than Your Last Breakup: Duluth's Fire Hose Work Pants
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Tougher Than Your Last Breakup: Duluth's Fire Hose Work Pants

Let’s talk about pants. Not the kind you wear to impress your date, but the kind that take a beating and keep on going. The Duluth Trading Men's Fire Hose Relaxed Fit Cargo Work Pants are the kind of gear that makes you feel like you can take on the world—one knee scrape at a time.

🧵 Built Like a Tank, Feels Like a Cloud

These aren’t your average work pants. Made from 11.5 oz Fire Hose cotton canvas, they're prewashed for that broken-in comfort right out of the gate. Whether you're crawling under a house or kneeling on concrete, the Crouch Gusset® ensures you move without restriction. And with FendOff Finish™, these pants repel stains and water, so you can focus on the job, not the mess.

🧰 Pockets That Actually Hold Stuff

Ever try to fit a tape measure in a pocket that’s too shallow? Not a problem here. With extra-deep front pockets and cargo pockets that can be tucked away when not needed, these pants keep your tools and essentials secure and accessible. No more fumbling around for your utility knife or phone.

💪 Built for the Long Haul

Triple-stitched seams and deep 8-oz Fire Hose pocket bags resist punctures from tools, ensuring these pants stand up to the toughest tasks. Whether you're on a construction site or in the workshop, these pants are designed to last.

👉 Ready to upgrade your workwear?
The Duluth Trading Men's Fire Hose Relaxed Fit Cargo Work Pants are waiting to join your gear lineup. Because when it comes to work, you deserve pants that work as hard as you do.

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Mark It Like You Mean It: Why Every Tradesman Needs a Pencil Upgrade
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Mark It Like You Mean It: Why Every Tradesman Needs a Pencil Upgrade

✏️ Built for the Trade Life

This set isn’t just a pencil—it’s a precision marking system. You get:

  • A solid metal mechanical pencil body (finally, one that doesn't feel like it’ll snap under real use)

  • 36 refill leads in both graphite and yellow (high-vis on dark surfaces = chef’s kiss)

  • A built-in sharpener in the cap (no more knife sharpening on your jeans)

  • A deep reach needle-point tip that fits into holes and tight corners where regular pencils tap out

Whether you're framing, tiling, welding, or just roughing out your next project, this pencil shows up ready to work.

👷 Why It Matters

In the trades, every mark matters. A sloppy line can mean a crooked cut. A faint mark can disappear under sawdust. And losing your pencil in your tool belt black hole? It slows down your whole rhythm.

The THORVALD is built like a tradesman thinks—durable, practical, and ready for whatever surface you throw at it: metal, wood, concrete, tile, and even wet lumber.

🧰 The Little Tools That Work Hard

Big results don’t always come from big-ticket tools. Sometimes it’s the humble gear—the stuff you use all day, every day—that deserves an upgrade. This pencil set is one of those tools.

Trust us—once you start marking with one of these, going back to a regular carpenter pencil feels like trading in your impact driver for a butter knife.

👉 Grab the THORVALD set and mark your next cut like a pro.
Because craftsmanship starts at the line.

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Your Back’s New Best Friend: The Rolling Cart That Works as Hard as You Do
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Your Back’s New Best Friend: The Rolling Cart That Works as Hard as You Do

There comes a point in every tradesperson's life when the strongest muscles aren’t in your arms or your legs—they’re in your tools of efficiency. And this Olympia Tools Pack-N-Roll Service Cart? It's about to be your new favorite coworker.

🚛 Work Smarter, Not Just Harder

Let’s be real: hauling heavy gear back and forth between your truck, shop, or jobsite doesn’t make you tougher—it just makes your back angrier. This rolling cart says, “Hey man, let me take that.”

With a 150 lb capacity, smooth-rolling wheels, and a collapsible design, it’s the kind of no-nonsense, reliable help every tradesperson deserves.

  • Two-tiered trays hold your essentials—from drills and wire spools to tile saws and tool bags.

  • Foldable and lightweight for easy transport, even if your crew already shoved everything else into your truck bed.

  • No assembly required—it shows up ready to hustle, just like you.

🧰 Built for the Real World

This ain’t your grandma’s utility cart. The Olympia Tools 85-188 was made for tough environments: dusty garages, muddy sites, greasy shops, and cluttered trailers.

It doesn’t complain about the weight. It doesn’t wobble when loaded. And when the day’s done? It folds flat and gets out of the way. No drama.

🦾 Why Every Trade Needs One

Whether you’re a mechanic, HVAC tech, electrician, or jack-of-all-trades, having a mobile station saves steps, saves time, and saves your lower back from a world of regret.

Need to wheel your gear from the shop to the truck?
Got a bunch of heavy tools that never seem to be in the right spot at the right time?
Working solo and need a second set of wheels (literally)?

This cart earns its keep.

👉 Trade smarter, not sorer.
Add this rolling cart to your setup and roll through the job like a pro.

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Trade Spotlight: Inground Sprinkler Installer
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Trade Spotlight: Inground Sprinkler Installer

When it comes to keeping lawns green and gardens thriving, there’s a hidden crew doing the heavy lifting underground — the inground sprinkler installers. These tradespeople lay the groundwork (literally) for perfectly watered yards, parks, and commercial landscapes.

If you’re looking for steady work with a mix of outdoor muscle and tech know-how, becoming an inground sprinkler installer might just be your next solid move.

🛠️ Training: How Do You Get Started?

No fancy degree is needed here, but there is a learning curve.

Most sprinkler installers start with:

  • On-the-job training: Entry-level workers usually apprentice with landscaping or irrigation companies, learning the ropes on everything from digging trenches to pipe fitting.

  • Technical classes or certifications: Many pros get certified through programs like the Irrigation Association’s Certified Irrigation Technician (CIT) or take vocational courses that teach you about system design, hydraulics, and troubleshooting.

  • OSHA safety training: Working with trenching, excavation, and electrical components means knowing your safety standards inside and out.

If you want to step up into system design or business ownership, advanced training in CAD software, water management, and irrigation control technology can be game changers.

🔧 Skill Development: What You’ll Actually Do

This is a physically demanding trade that also requires sharp attention to detail and problem-solving skills:

  • Reading blueprints and site plans: You’ll need to understand the layout and requirements before the digging starts.

  • Trenching and pipe installation: Operating machinery and hand tools to install piping underground.

  • System assembly and wiring: Connecting valves, controllers, and sensors.

  • Testing and troubleshooting: Making sure everything runs right and fixing leaks or pressure issues.

  • Customer communication: You’ll often be the face of the company on the jobsite, so good people skills matter.

💵 Income: What’s the Pay Like?

Pay for sprinkler installers varies by experience, location, and company size, but here’s a general idea:

RoleHourly RateAnnual RangeEntry-Level Installer$14–$18$29,000–$37,000Experienced Technician$18–$25$37,000–$52,000Crew Leader / Foreman$22–$30$46,000–$62,000+Certified Irrigation Designer$25–$35+$52,000–$72,000+Owner-OperatorVaries$60,000–$100,000+

Bonus: Many companies offer seasonal work, but steady irrigation jobs tend to run year-round in mild climates.

Is This Trade Right for You?

  • You like working outdoors and don’t mind getting your hands dirty.

  • You want a trade that combines physical work with tech and problem solving.

  • You’re safety-conscious and detail-oriented.

  • You want a career with clear paths to growth—from fieldwork to design to owning your own business.

🔥 The Blue Collar Boyfriend’s Take

Inground sprinkler installation is a solid trade that keeps homes and landscapes healthy and looking good year-round. It’s hands-on, steady work with room to grow, especially if you’re willing to get certified and sharpen your technical skills.

If you’re ready to dig in and build a career that waters the roots of your community, this trade is worth a look.

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Jobsite Darwinism: Why That One Guy Survives (But You Shouldn’t Try It)
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Jobsite Darwinism: Why That One Guy Survives (But You Shouldn’t Try It)

We’ve all seen that guy. The one hanging off a ladder two stories up with no harness, no spotter, and absolutely no concern for gravity or OSHA. Maybe it’s a buddy. Maybe it’s a neighbor. Maybe it’s you—hopefully not.

And yet… somehow, they’re still alive. No broken bones. No cautionary tale. Just a living, breathing monument to sheer luck and questionable decision-making.

But here’s the deal: luck is not a strategy.

At The Blue Collar Boyfriend, we like a good laugh as much as the next crew—but not at the cost of your health, paycheck, or family. The truth is, jobsite safety isn’t about being soft. It’s about working smart so you can work long. You can't be the provider, protector, or badass you were born to be if you're laid up with a ladder injury because you skipped the basics.

🛠 Why Safety Gear Matters:

  • Ladders don’t care how many years you’ve been in the trade.

  • Concrete doesn’t cushion ego.

  • Your family doesn’t get hazard pay.

So while the meme is funny (and painfully relatable), it’s a good gut check too. PPE, anchor points, hard hats, gloves, proper footwear—none of it makes you weak. It makes you wise.

Let that daredevil neighbor be the mystery miracle man. You? Be the guy who shows up every day, gets home safe, and doesn’t end up as a viral cautionary tale.

Because real toughness means staying in the game.

👉 Stay safe out there. And if you need a solid ladder stabilizer, extension covers, or the best hard hat light to see what you’re doing after dark—we’ve got your six.

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Get Light When You Need It—Without Dropping Tools
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Get Light When You Need It—Without Dropping Tools

🧰 What It Is

A USB-rechargeable LED headlamp outfitted with three lights: two flood beams on the sides and an adjustable zoomable center spotlight. It includes a red-light mode to preserve night vision or avoid startling anyone—great for hunting or late-night checks. ⚙️ It’s weather-resistant (IPX4 or IPX5 level), built to fit over hard hats or winter caps, and has a comfortable, sweat-resistant band with adjustable sizing.

✅ Why Tradesfolk Rate It High

  • Crazy Bright for the Price – Almost 1,100 lumens at full blast, and built solid. That’s serious output in a <$40 package.

  • Multiple Modes & Zoom – High, medium, low, plus a strobe and red lamp. Beam focus and angle adjust independently. Choose wide flood for nearby panel wiring or tight spotlight to trace a pipe route.

  • Rechargeable & Long Lasting – Uses USB-charged lithium-ion cells. You can keep working all week on a charge—even after hours of high use.

  • Comfort Fit, Hard Hat Compatible – The headband stays snug and cool under sweat. Strap it over your helmet or under—either way it works.

🗣️ What Folks Say

From Amazon users:

“The headlamp is adjustable and very bright… built well and I highly recommend.”
“Best light I’ve had … feels durable and excellent value for the money.”

A deep dive blog review notes:

“Designed to operate reliably in extreme heat or cold… watertight—even after submersion.”

💡 Field-Tested Take

Wired attic lighting in a cold crawlspace? The flood beams gave clear visibility. Adjusted to spotlight for router routing, then red mode for drywall touch-ups without ruining night vision in shared spaces. Battery lasted both the run and the ride back to the shop.

💬 Final Word from Your Blue Collar Boyfriend

If you're working after sundown, under fixtures, or digging in dim service closets, this DanForce headlamp is your buddy. It’s tough, bright, rechargeable, and wallet-friendly. Doesn’t shrug at dirt, sweat, or sweat—because it stays working while you do.

Just strap it on, point it where you need it, and keep both hands free. That’s work simplified.

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Buck Moon Cologne: Like a Summer Field at Sundown—But You Don’t Sink Your Tools in It
The Blue Collar Boyfriend The Blue Collar Boyfriend

Buck Moon Cologne: Like a Summer Field at Sundown—But You Don’t Sink Your Tools in It

14

🧪 What Makes Buck Moon Different?

💬 What Real Folks Are Saying

Enthusiasts on Reddit and forums gush:

“One of the best budget fragrances I’ve ever smelt. If you get a chance to smell it—don't sleep on it.”Meijer+2Reddit+2Target+2
“I got this one and their Midway… Buck Moon is a great scent… great colognes for $25.”Amazon+14Reddit+14Target+14

Customer reviews also echo that vibe:

"A very clean and masculine scent that's rich yet not complicated."Duke Cannon+1Target+1
“Blew my expectations out of the water… longevity, price, and atomizer blow designer brands away.”Target

Some callouts on the downside:

Longevity isn’t bomber-level—after a few hours, you may need a light refresh.RedditDuke Cannon
A few describe it as musty or familiar—but that’s personal preference.Ulta Beauty

🔧 How It's Heard on the Job

Think of Buck Moon as your subtle signature—not overpowering, but noticeable in the right way. It's the kind of scent that gets nods at the hardware store, not complaints, yet isn’t trying to compensate with loud musk and marketing flare.

And at $25 for 1.7 oz, you’re getting a sharp bottle that lasts, cost-wise and reputation-wise.

✅ Quick Summary: Should You Grab It?

FeatureWhy It MattersVetiver + Oakmoss blendEarthy, fresh, natural scent grounded in outdoors—not cologne clichés.Amazon+6Duke Cannon+6Duke Cannon+6Made in USA, guilt-free purchasePortion of proceeds benefits veterans, small-batch production.Duke CannonDuke CannonAffordable and solid performerReal cologne strength at casual price, 4.5-star average.Duke CannonDuke CannonModerate longevityEnough for shift-work, may fade unless reapplied for longer plans.RedditDuke Cannon

💬 Final Word from Your Blue Collar Boyfriend

If you’re done with overly sweet or overwhelming scents but still want to smell like a human with standards, Buck Moon Proper Cologne is for you. It’s subtle, dependable, and never tries too hard. Great for everyday wear and built on practical value.

Lock horns with Buck Moon—because smelling good doesn’t have to be complicated (or expensive).

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This Inflatable Wedge Does the Heavy Lifting—So You Don’t Have To
The Blue Collar Boyfriend The Blue Collar Boyfriend

This Inflatable Wedge Does the Heavy Lifting—So You Don’t Have To

🛠️ What It Is

A tough, contractor-grade inflatable bladder (6″ × 6.5″ folded) that inflates to lift or shift — think precision prying without damage or strain. It comes with a hand pump and releases smoothly when you're positioned and plumbed calculated.comglobaltestsupply.com.

It’s certified by SGS to support a full 300 pounds—and its soft surface won't scratch the jobsite surfaces globaltestsupply.com+3calculated.com+3calculated.com+3.

✅ Why Carpenters, HVAC, & Plumbing Pros Swear by It

  • One-person operation: Hold your door, appliance, or cabinet steady with one hand—freeing up the other to screw, align, or shim.

  • Fits tight spots: Slip it under a heavy window or appliance where wedges or pry bars just won’t fit.

  • Fast adjustability: Pump it, position, and deflate when you're ready. No sawing wood shims, no stepping on cuss words.

  • Prevents damage: Soft padding means no gouges on vinyl, wood, or painted surfaces—a real pro move.

🗣️ What the Crew Says

Users rave:

“The Air Shim is a must‑have for any toolkit… weighs next to nothing, lifts up to 300 lb, and fits tight spaces.” globaltestsupply.com+3Amazon+3calculated.com+3Tiger Supplies+12Amazon+12Ace Hardware+12
“Great for hanging doors. I'd be lost without mine.” —r/Tools pilot reviewers reddit.com

From cabinets to automotive dent repair, folks are finding creative uses—and saving time and backache in the process calculated.comreddit.com.

⚠️ Heads‑Up Before You Buy

  • Limited gap range: Works best between 3⁄32″ and 2½″ gaps. Wider jobs need bigger gear calculated.com+1globaltestsupply.com+1.

  • Bulb resets under pressure: On max inflation, the pump bulb may release from the hose—intended safety, not a flaw Amazon.

  • One-at-a-time lift: For heavier or larger items, pair two AirShims to balance the load calculated.comTiger Supplies.

💡 Real-World Use

Had a bathroom vanity unit and a fridge to set, all by myself. Slipped one AirShim under each side, pumped until the appliance was perfectly level, and bolted it down. No curses, no second pair of hands, and no smashed toes from dropping a wedge.

In another case, trim installers used it under baseboards to gently pry and remove them cleanly—no broken edges, no patch-up paint.

💬 Final Word from Your Blue Collar Boyfriend

If you ever need to lift, align, or hold something heavy—even just an inch—this little inflatable tool is slicker than duct tape and ten times safer. Lightweight, precise, and easy to stash in your bag of tricks.

AirShim Contractor Grade (Model 1190): the silent partner that does the grunt work so you don’t have to.

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