The Ultimate 2023 Gift Guide for Concrete Contractors
Brickform pros share their top gift picks for concrete contractors this holiday season
Wondering what to get the hardworking concrete contractor in your life? We asked our team at Brickform to share what’s on their list of must-haves, and here’s what they came up with. Happy gift giving!
The Essential Tool for Steps
Forming stairs can be difficult, but Brickform’s Cantilever Step Liner simplifies the process. This tool creates a rough, natural stone face with a dramatic cantilever. It comes in one piece, making it less of a headache for installers.
The Float Assistant
Putting a smooth finish on concrete is not an easy task, but the G3 MagVibe Pro™ simplifies (and speeds up) the process for contractors. The tool, which attaches to an existing float, has a high-frequency vibration that automatically adjusts based on the stiffness of the concrete. Its battery lasts 20 hours on just one charge—making the tool both helpful and convenient.
The Durable Travel Mug
There’s a reason they’re so popular: Yeti’s Rambler® Travel Mug with Stronghold™ Lid has features that you simply don’t get from just any travel mug. This dishwasher-safe mug has an elevated handle, making it compatible with cupholders in just about any vehicle. All parts are top-rack dishwasher safe, and the magnetic slider makes the lid easier to keep clean that other mug lids. Vacuum insulation keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for hours. This particular design is available in 20oz and 30oz. Comes in 10 colors.
The Smooth Sprayer
Spending hours on a job only to have it messed up by an inadequate sprayer is frustrating. “That’s why we recommend Swissmex sprayers. They’re simple to use and tough as nails,” says Brickform technical expert John Reynolds. The tanks are resistant to damage from UV exposure and the impact of hard falls, making this a gift that’ll last for years to come.
The Back Saver
To make concrete level, screeding is required. This process takes a toll over time—often leading to shoulder, neck, and back pain. The battery-powered Batt Screed by Curb Roller allows this tedious step to be completed while upright. It’s also more efficient and precise.
The Compact Jacket
For concrete contractors, having the right clothing on hand is key. The Storm Defender® Relaxed Fit Lightweight Packable Jacket by Carhartt is easy to keep handy since it conveniently folds up compactly into the zippered lower pocket and is lightweight (just 4.2 ounces). Its material is breathable enough to stay comfy when you work up a sweat, but also keeps the rain and wind out.
The Sleek Stamp
Creating the look of wood with the durability of concrete is hot right now, but doing it in a way that actually looks authentic is not easy. Having the right stamp is essential. Brickform’s Ozark Barnwood Texture Mat, which is part of their new lightweight Pro Series line, is cast from authentic reclaimed barn siding.
The Organizer
Whether you’re buying a gift for a contractor who wants to be more organized or a contractor who needs to be more organized, the PACKOUT™ Rolling Tool Chest by Milwaukee is the perfect present. It comes in a variety of sizes, and all feature industrial-grade extension handles that make these rolling tool chests easy to maneuver. The chests are part of a modular system, so multiple boxes can be easily connected for streamlined transport.
The Neck Warmer
Having layers that can be easily removed is a must for those who work up a sweat but sometimes need to begin or end their day in cold weather. Carhartt’s reasonably priced Fleece Neck Gaiter is made of a stretchy fleece that’s easy to take on and off.
The Boot Scraper
With an extra-wide opening, even bulky construction boots can fit into this Deluxe Boot Scraper by Rhino Built. Its triple brush base makes it easy for the concrete contractor in your life to quickly remove debris from their boots so they don’t track mud or other debris into their trucks, office, or home.
The Custom Card Holder
For carrying around business cards to jobsites, consider gifting this sleek leather holder. Made of quality leather that’s handstitched to order, this business card holder can be personalized with initials or a business name.
The Foot Massager
Anyone who spends all day out on the field will love this Pro-Tec Athletics Spiky Massage Ball. It’s simple to use: just put it on the ground and roll your foot on top to increase circulation and knead out tension.
The Heavy-Duty Tool Bag
“I take my canvas tool bag everywhere!” says Brickform trainer Johnny D. With a waterproof bottom and durable canvas sides, lock-stitched seams, and a 12-gauge steel frame, this Canvas Tool Bag by Marshalltown U.S.A. is built to last. The 20-inch long bag also includes a pocket on the inside to hold small tools.
The Finger Warmers
Working with freezing-cold hands is a painful experience and can slow down productivity. These waterproof-fleece-lined Ice Buster™ Gloves by Uline keep hands warm in temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. (Uline notes that the insulated liner makes for a together fit, so be sure to order one size up than you typically would.)
The Neck Soother
After a long day, it’s safe to assume that many concrete contractors (or anyone, really!) would be happy to receive a massage. When a partner or personal masseuse isn’t available, this Neck and Back Massager is great to have on hand. Its heat function allows for maximum relaxation. (After 15 minutes, the heat automatically shuts off to avoid overheating, so you don’t have to worry about falling asleep with it on.)
The Cool Toothbrush Holder
For anyone who appreciates the look of concrete, this toothbrush holder makes a nice small gift. “I may just buy this Concrete Bathroom Caddy for myself,” says Brickform videographer Antonio Thomas. It serves as functional décor and fits in with the style of just about any bathroom. Available in 11 different colors.
The Trusty Leveler
Every good contractor needs a good level, and here’s one with a good rap. Rated “Most Durable” by Popular Mechanics this year, the Dewalt DWo88K Line Laser Level is water and debris resistant and can withstand a drop from up to slightly more than 3 feet high.
