Over a year" isn't that crazy for dry goods. Bugs can get into anything no matter how you store it. The real problem was just buying a bag that big without a solid plan to use it.

Man, that's scary stuff. I used to think just setting the feet was enough, but a close call on some mud changed my mind for good. Now I always screw a couple of long wood screws into the ground through the ladder's feet if I'm on anything soft or wet. It takes two minutes and basically pins it in place. For leaves, I'll also sweep a clear spot first so the feet have solid contact.

Nah, it wasn't about getting used to it. That stuff was a known problem from the start for anyone paying attention. The feel was totally different from copper, it needed special connectors most guys didn't have, and it creeped under the screws. They pushed it because it was cheap, not because it was good. A lot of us knew it was a bad deal but had to use what the bosses bought. The fires later just proved the point everyone on the ground already saw coming.

My cousin once tried that with his new car and ended up with soap streaks baked into the paint. It's a whole thing now, @uma394.

Ever notice how the best natural stuff needs the most babying?