Every now and then we get overwhelmed with work... like right now. I would love to know if anyone has utilized temp services or other means to get trusted, competent workers to do general labor such as caulking, removing insulation or removing vapor barrier? Most temp services seem to frown on their guys being on a ladder over 6' off the ground. Any help would be appreciated.

I've had experience with temps in other industries and there is a reason they don't have regular jobs. Personal hygiene is the first thing that comes to mind. What I have done with a temp agency is run my stepson through them so I'm not responsible for payroll taxes or workmans comp, he's their employee not mine. Maybe you could find a couple friends or family members to have on call.

Thanks Dave. Good points. Unfortunately none of my friends are the "hands on" kind of guy I need. Kids are still too young, although the 13 year old is getting close! I always threaten to tie a rope around his ankle and send him into a crawlspace after a snake.
Most of the work is caulking off of a 32' so I need someone with excellent ladder technique. Thanks again.

Funny you should bring that up John. We were discussing that idea the other day. I was a temp at my last factory job nearly 30 years ago. I wasn't a temp for long because the hired me but that would certainly let you see what kind of a worker you would have. It seems that almost everyone in our business could use more summer help.

Here's some of my ideas for next summer. School teachers, (especially biology teachers) college kids taking conservation courses, high school kids from the school my son went to that might have an aptitude for this sort of thing. We do have a couple of temp services nearby so I'm interested in your answers as well.

Funny, Dave! I've worked for a coupla long-term temp. outfits. One job (at Monsanto Corp.) had the best bennies I'd ever had!
About ten years ago I applied at some temp offices. The implications were that
1. every worker is a criminal (ridiculous background checks, paychecks held back, random drug tests, etc.)
2. every worker is dumb as a hammer. I walked out of one office when I was shown a video on how to walk up stairs (I am not making this up!).

Dave, for crying out loud, you're from St. Louis!

Hey Paul.
I've had no luck on the temp services. I also submitted a request for an employee through our state employment service, and have not had a response there either.
I did go through the resumes that folks have sent me over the last 2 years, and emailed all of them. I've got a new fellow starting tomorrow on a temporary basis and hopefully that will get me through this spurt and beyond.
Those are good ideas about prospective workers. I may try some of them next year too!

go to the local welfare line im sure theres all kinds of people there wanting to make a dollar!!!

Most of our welfarers are looking for free dollars, not work. The sight of a ladder usually gives them nervous tremors.

[quote=Paul Winkelmann]Most of our welfarers are looking for free dollars, not work. The sight of a ladder usually gives them nervous tremors. [/quote)

Or maybe they will have dollar signs in there eyes when they see that ladder. A little slip and fall and they are set for life. A lot of these career welfare bums just looking for the next scam to get free money.