Inside the December 2008 Issue

Features

Special Feature: Young Company, Old-Time Values

Whether clearing roots, lining pipes or jetting drains, A Rooter Pros thrives on a business approach that treats every customer as important

Expo Preview: The Education Edge

Seminars during the 2009 Pumper & Cleaner Expo focus on robotics, pipe cleaning and repair, rehabilitation technologies and other vital topics

Tech Perspective: Routing Roots

Almost every root-cutting job is different. Savvy contractors keep a variety of cutting tools on hand and know when to use them.

Cover Story: Micro to Macro

BioRemedies expands from grease-trap bacteria sales to pipeline diagnostics and rehabilitation in and around El Paso, Texas

Columns

Better Business: What Old-Time Doctors Can Teach Us

Of course there are differences in “house calls” by a doctor and a drain-cleaning contractor – and yet many of the customer service skills are the same

From the Editor: What Did the Past Year Teach You?

Before letting 2008 slip into oblivion, it can be worthwhile to look back and reflect on the year’s events and any lessons they may carry

Product Spotlight: Waterjetter Designed for Powerful, Quiet Performance

Hearing-protection gear can be a nuisance for waterjetter operators, assuming they wear any at all. Earplugs and earmuffs also can put operators at risk because they can’t hear traffic noise or warnings from co-workers. The Warrior high-pressure waterjetter from Spartan Tool LLC tackles those issues with an enclosed, soundproofed unit.

Tough Job: Top of Their Game

Pipe bursting helps a contractor meet a major challenge in upsizing the sanitary sewers at the Cotton Bowl stadium

Money Machines: It’s No Mystery

A sleek camera van with complete inspection equipment and software helps a Florida contractor zero in on maximum productivity and profit

Industry News: Industry News

PACP Positioned as North American Standard; Aries Presents Grout Boot Camp VI; Spartan Tool Passes NATM Safety-Inspection Program; RIDGID Releases Product Catalog; Magazine Recognizes Mr. Rooter in Top 200; Mr. Manhole Opens Distribution and Training Center; Amazing Machinery Expands Equipment Line

After Hours: He’s Coming to Town

Long-time Illinois contractor Danny Bland of Bland’s Sewer & Water spreads Christmas cheer each December as that fellow from the North Pole

Reader Pipelines: Fighting With Fuel

Contractors use efficiency-boosting practices and increase rates to help offset the effects of fast-rising gasoline and diesel fuel prices

Money Manager: Closing the Books

December is a good time to get a handle on the year’s expenses and income, and to make decisions that can affect your tax liability

Safety First: A Dangerous Place

Outdoor workers face far more hazards than those who spend their days under a roof