Congratulations on marrying a welder! Adventure awaits! As a wedding gift to you, here is a small list of things helpful to know before hand. I found these out by trial and error (maybe more error, but we won’t talk about that).
Invest in really good cleaning supplies. Welding is a dirty job. Your spouse will come home covered in metal dust, dirt, and who knows what else every, single, day. Kind of like construction workers, but prickly, sparkly dust. Anything they routinely touch will turn black. Dresser handles, doors, the sink, and the shower. The shower will turn completely black if you forget about it for a week. (don’t ask me how I know). Invest in good scrubbing supplies and baking soda! Takes it all right off.
On the upside, your welder is very, very handy to have around. In addition to knowing how to build anything out of metal, they usually know how to fix just about anything. Often, a welder has a few side hobbies such as fixing cars, blacksmithing, or woodworking. Yes, all of the hobbies are also messy. However, you are most likely marrying someone who can fix anything. Which will save you so much money and headache!
Your welder has a good chance of being something of a workaholic. Not because they don’t like you, but because they love their job so much. They enjoy controlling fire to melt metal. Most likely, they will say yes to extra hours if welding is involved.
However, be prepared to have the conversation with your family and friends that just because your spouse is a welder doesn’t mean they will weld all of their side projects for them. For free anyway. Your spouse will work a full time job welding, as much as they like their job, everyone needs a break now and then! For the right price (or pizza), they might weld for someone else, but don’t count on it.
In the war between welders and inspectors, you are now on the welders side. Period. Let fall a disparaging remark about inspectors, and your resident welder will adore you forever.
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My husband is a welder, which is the inspiration of this post. I know not every welder is like this, but this is just a snapshot of the ones I know.
Have a great day!
Shaina Merrick
The Beauty of a Story 