Cribbing for Industrial Construction: Building with Confidence

 Cribbing for Industrial Construction: 

Building with Confidence

In the world of industrial construction, stability and safety are non-negotiable. As any seasoned professional in this industry will tell you, a solid foundation is the cornerstone of any successful project. Enter the often-overlooked hero of construction: cribbing. While cribbing might not frequently grace the pages of popular engineering magazines, its importance is paramount in ensuring the safety and integrity of construction operations.

Cribbing, at its core, refers to a system of wooden supports used to stabilize heavy machinery and structures during construction, repairs, or maintenance. It’s not just any wood that fits the bill, though. The materials used for cribbing need to possess an optimal balance of strength, durability, and versatility. This is where Calumet Lumber Inc. steps in.

Why Cribbing Matters

Imagine you’re lifting a massive piece of equipment or constructing a towering structure. The last thing you want is any wobble or give. Cribbing provides a reliable framework that distributes weight evenly, preventing unwanted shifts and ensuring that everything stays exactly where it should be. It’s the security blanket that allows engineers and construction workers to operate with peace of mind, knowing that the risk of accidents is minimized.

From trenching operations to supporting large loads during transportation, cribbing is a multifaceted solution. Its utility spans numerous applications, making it an indispensable part of the industrial toolbox.

Enhanced Safety and Stability

Cribbing is essential for maintaining safety and stability on construction sites. By providing a stable base, cribbing prevents heavy machinery and structures from shifting or collapsing, which significantly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. This is particularly crucial during lifting operations, where the stability of the load is paramount.

Versatility in Applications

Cribbing is not limited to a single use case. It is employed in various scenarios, such as:

Heavy Equipment Lifting: Creating a stable base for lifting or jacking heavy machinery.

Excavation Support: Stabilizing the sides of trenches or pits to prevent soil collapse.

Structural Repairs: Providing temporary support during repairs or modifications to existing structures.

Material Considerations

The choice of materials for cribbing is critical. While wood is a traditional and cost-effective option, modern alternatives like plastic and steel offer enhanced durability and resistance to environmental factors. Each material has its strengths and is chosen based on the specific requirements of the project.

Best Practices

To ensure the effectiveness and safety of cribbing, it’s important to follow best practices:

Regular Inspections: Check cribbing materials for damage or wear and replace compromised pieces immediately.

Proper Stacking Techniques: Use correct stacking methods to distribute weight evenly and maintain stability.

Environmental Considerations: Account for factors like moisture or chemical exposure that may affect material performance.

The Calumet Lumber Advantage

Founded on a tradition of excellence and innovation in 1906, Calumet Lumber Inc. has long been a trusted name in the supply of high-quality lumber products. When it comes to cribbing, they bring their extensive knowledge and expertise to the table, offering products meticulously crafted to meet the demanding needs of industrial construction.

Here’s why choosing CLI for your cribbing needs is a decision you can make with confidence:

Quality You Can Depend On: CLI’s cribbing materials are made from premium-grade wood, ensuring robustness and longevity. Each piece is carefully inspected to meet stringent quality standards, so you can trust your project to stand the test of time.

Custom Solutions: Every construction project is unique, and Calumet understands that. They offer customizable cribbing solutions, tailoring dimensions and specifications to perfectly match your specific requirements.

Expert Guidance: With decades of experience under their belt, the team at CLI. provides invaluable insights and guidance. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, their knowledgeable staff is eager to assist you in selecting the right cribbing solutions for your project.

For those who value quality, reliability, and expert service, Calumet Lumber Inc. stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of cribbing. Elevate your projects with the confidence that comes from working with industry leaders. After all, a sturdy foundation is the first step to building something extraordinary.

Building the Region Since 1906

402 East Chicago Avenue 
P.O. Box 239
East Chicago, IN 46312
Phone: 219-397-2345

Introducing MAR MAC Tie Wire: The Industrial Construction Hero!

Introducing MAR MAC Tie Wire: 

The Industrial Construction Hero!

Looking for a wire that’s as tough as a tie and as reliable as your morning coffee? Meet MAR MAC Tie Wire! This black beauty, with a gauge of 16, is the unsung hero of industrial construction. Whether you’re tying rebar, securing scaffolding, or just need a dependable wire to hold things together, MAR MAC Tie Wire has got your back. And guess what? It’s always in stock at Calumet Lumber Inc., your go-to lumber company since 1906.

Why Choose MAR MAC Tie Wire? 

Top Choice for Professionals: Known across the concrete reinforcing industry, MAR MAC Tie Wire has been the top choice for placing professionals for decades. 

High Standards: It meets the demands of projects ranging from modest to multi-billion-dollar scales.  

Quality Control: Produced using C1006 or C1008 grade steel and dead-soft annealed, ensuring it performs well in the field. 

Economical: Sourced as economically as possible, providing low unit costs without compromising quality.

Why Ironworkers Love 
MAR MAC Tie Wire

But wait, there’s more! Why do ironworkers prefer MAR MAC Tie Wire? Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty:

Super Strength: This wire is like the superhero of the construction site. It’s strong enough to hold everything together, even when things get a little shaky.

Flexibility: Just like a gymnast, MAR MAC Tie Wire bends and twists without breaking a sweat. It’s perfect for those tricky spots where you need a little extra give.

Consistency: No one likes surprises on the job site. MAR MAC Tie Wire delivers consistent quality every time, so you can focus on getting the job done right.

Speedwire Option: For those who want to minimize reel reloads and maximize uptime, MAR MAC offers Speedwire, which gives you 16% more feet per roll. Less time reloading, more time building!

And let’s not forget the Buy American and Buy America standards. MAR MAC Tie Wire is drawn, annealed, coiled, and packaged right here in the USA. So, not only are you getting top-notch quality, but you’re also supporting American jobs.

About Calumet Lumber Inc.

Established Legacy: Serving the community since October 1906, Calumet Lumber Inc. is now in its fourth generation of family ownership.

Industrial Focus: Unlike typical lumber yards, Calumet Lumber specializes in serving the heavy industry and industrial owners, engineers, and contractors in Northwest Indiana and South Chicago.

Comprehensive Inventory: They stock a wide range of materials, including wood scaffold material, rebar, concrete forming accessories, and more.

Custom Manufacturing: They manufacture custom wood items like blocking, wooden boxes, and wedges.

Exceptional Service: Known for excellent customer service, they offer training on the installation of grouts and concrete repair products. Plus, their delivery is typically complimentary and often same day.

Certified Diversity:  Calumet Lumber Inc. is proud to be certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE), Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), and Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) member. 

Our union drivers are ready to deliver this wire wonder straight to your site. So why wait?

📞 Call: 219-397-0254 📧 Email: sales@calumetlumber.com

Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 4:00 PM CST

Calumet Lumber Inc. – Building dreams, one wire at a time! 

Sealant vs. Caulk: The Ultimate Showdown

Ever found yourself in the middle of a DIY project, staring at a tube of something sticky and wondering, "Is this a sealant or a caulk?" Well, you're not alone. Let's dive into the sticky world of sealants and caulks and figure out what makes them tick. Spoiler alert: they’re not the same thing!

Sealant vs. Caulk: What's the Difference?

Sealant: Think of sealants as the superheroes of the construction world. They’re flexible, durable, and can withstand extreme conditions. Sealants are used to block the passage of fluids through the surface or joints or openings in materials. They’re perfect for areas that experience a lot of movement, like expansion joints in buildings.

Caulk: Caulk, on the other hand, is like the trusty sidekick. It’s great for filling gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other stationary areas. Caulks are generally less flexible than sealants and are used for areas that don’t see much movement.

Now that we’ve got that sorted, let’s talk about some specific products you might find at Calumet Lumber Inc. (Yes, they have all these in stock! Call 219-397-0254 or email sales@calumetlumber.com).

The Fantastic Four: 3M Fire Barrier CP 25WB+, Sikaflex NP1, DAP Alex Plus, and Titebond Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive

1. 3M Fire Barrier CP 25WB+

This one’s a real hotshot—literally. The 3M Fire Barrier CP 25WB+ is a firestop sealant that expands when exposed to high temperatures, helping to contain fire, smoke, and noxious gases. It’s like having a firefighter in a tube. It’s latex-based, paintable, and can be used in both wall and floor applications.

2. Sikaflex NP1

Sikaflex NP1 is the strong, silent type. This one-component, polyurethane sealant is known for its excellent flexibility and adhesion. It’s perfect for sealing joints in concrete and masonry, and it’s also great for soundproofing. No mixing required, just load it into your caulking gun and you’re good to go.

3. DAP Alex Plus

DAP Alex Plus is the versatile all-rounder. This acrylic latex caulk with silicone is ideal for both interior and exterior use. It’s paintable in just 30 minutes and provides a durable, waterproof seal. Use it around windows, doors, and trim for a smooth, professional finish.

4. Titebond Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive

Finally, we have the Titebond Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive. This solvent-based adhesive is designed for the toughest jobs. It bonds to a variety of materials including wood, metal, brick, and concrete. It’s waterproof, flexible, and can even be used in extreme temperatures.

Similarities and Differences

Feature	3M Fire Barrier CP 25WB+	Sikaflex NP1	DAP Alex Plus	Titebond Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive
Type	Firestop Sealant	Polyurethane Sealant	Acrylic Latex Caulk with Silicone	Solvent-Based Adhesive
Primary Use	Firestopping	Sealing Joints in Concrete and Masonry	General Caulking (Interior/Exterior)	Heavy-Duty Bonding
Flexibility	Moderate	High	Moderate	Moderate
Paintable	Yes	Yes	Yes (in 30 minutes)	No
Waterproof	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Temperature Resistance	High	Moderate	Moderate	High
Special Features	Expands with Heat	Excellent Soundproofing	Quick Drying	Bonds to Various Materials

Similarities:

• All these products are used in construction and repair projects.
• They provide strong adhesion and are designed to fill gaps and cracks.
• Each product is durable and can withstand various environmental conditions.

Differences:

• 3M Fire Barrier CP 25WB+ is specifically designed for firestopping.
• Sikaflex NP1 is a polyurethane sealant known for its flexibility and soundproofing capabilities.
• DAP Alex Plus is an acrylic latex caulk with silicone, ideal for quick paint jobs.
• Titebond Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive is a solvent-based adhesive for heavy-duty applications.

A Little About Calumet Lumber Inc.

Calumet Lumber Inc. has been a cornerstone of the East Chicago community since 1906. That’s right, they’ve been around for over a century, serving the needs of heavy industry and contractors in Northwest Indiana and South Chicago. They stock a wide range of building materials, including wood scaffold material, rebar, concrete forming accessories, and of course, all the sealants and adhesives you could ever need. They even offer training on the installation of grouts and concrete repair products.

So, next time you’re in the middle of a project and need some top-notch materials, remember Calumet Lumber Inc. They’ve got you covered. Call 219-397-0254 or email sales@calumetlumber.com to get your hands on these fantastic products!

Happy sealing (or caulking)!

A Journey of Introductions

Calumet Lumber: Building the Region Since 1906

Calumet Lumber has been a cornerstone in the construction industry for years, providing high-quality materials and exceptional customer service. As the newest member of the Inside Sales team, I'm privileged to be part of such a dedicated and knowledgeable group. From day one, I've been amazed at the depth of expertise and the level of commitment everyone here brings to the table. One of the things that sets Calumet Lumber apart is our focus on building strong relationships with our customers. It's not just about selling lumber; it's about understanding our clients' needs and helping them find the best solutions for their projects. Whether they're seasoned contractors or DIY enthusiasts, we aim to be a trusted partner in their construction journey.

Timber Trends: Shaping the Future of Construction

Lumber is the backbone of the construction industry, and learning about its various types and uses has been quite the adventure. From softwoods like pine and spruce to hardwoods like oak and maple, each type of lumber has its unique properties and applications. Figuring out which type of wood is best for a particular project can be a bit like solving a puzzle, but it's incredibly rewarding when you get it right. One of my first rookie mistakes was confusing plywood with OSB (Oriented Strand Board).

They may look similar at first glance, but they have very different uses and characteristics. Plywood is generally stronger and more moisture-resistant, making it ideal for structural applications, while OSB is often used for subflooring and wall sheathing. Learning these nuances has been crucial in helping me provide better advice to our customers.

Building the Future: Industrial Construction

BP Whiting

Industrial construction is a whole different beast compared to residential or commercial building. The scale, complexity, and technical requirements can be daunting, but they also make it an incredibly exciting field to work in. From massive warehouses to intricate manufacturing plants, industrial projects require a high level of precision and coordination. One of the fascinating aspects of industrial construction is the use of specialized materials and techniques. For instance, high-strength steel and reinforced concrete are commonly used to ensure the durability and safety of industrial structures. I've also learned about the importance of adhering to stringent safety and regulatory standards, which are crucial in preventing accidents and ensuring the long-term viability of these massive projects.

From the US Navy to Sales: The Adventures of Stefanee Asche

Rocking the Swag

    I’m a dedicated professional and former US Navy service member with a bachelor’s degree in history from Purdue University. My career has been as diverse as my collection of quirky coffee mugs—I’ve worked in customer service, union organizing, and now I’m diving into the world of inside sales for lumber and industrial construction. I previously coached girls’ varsity golf at Griffith Public Schools, and I am actively involved in my community. 

I’ve embarked on this new adventure, learning the ropes of inside sales for lumber and industrial construction—because who doesn’t love the challenge of mastering a new field or the smell of sawdust?

Mayhem & Wrigley

When I’m not busy building relationships and closing deals, I love spending time with my family and friends. I’m married with two children and have two adorable pit bulls, who I affectionately call my “house hippos.” I’m a huge Star Wars fan and can often be found quoting Yoda or debating the finer points of the Force. I’m always eager to learn new things and take on new challenges, whether it’s mastering a new skill or finding the perfect balance between work and play. So join me on my journey of learning!