The Impact of Uncertainty
The Fine Homebuilding community shares stories of challenge, caution, and hope as they grapple with the Covid-19 crisis.
There’s nothing like a pandemic to test our collective mettle. People’s reactions to this sudden halt to normalcy run the gamut, but there are some common themes running through the threads on our social media channels. About a week ago, we asked readers to share their biggest work-related challenges in the face of Covid-19. Some of the comments are pragmatic and solution-oriented, others are more philosophical and commiserative. All reflect the spirit that ties our community of craftspeople together.
There is a clear sense that we are in this boat together. Among us are realists, idealists, innovators, and planners. Some are disheartened, some see the silver lining. Some are getting creative, others are sticking to routine. There’s worry over the fate of small businesses, there’s fear around navigating the job site safely, and there’s admission that it is all out of our control.
Like people everywhere, builders are finding their way around the obstacles that now hinder every day. It’s worth remembering that it is the ability to adapt that enables evolution. Perhaps we are standing on the precipice of major change—change that will ultimately shape our profession in ways we can’t imagine. No matter what that might look like, it’s valuable to keep the conversation going.
We welcome you to add your thoughts—big-picture or personal, it’s all important. Now is a time for reflection. And connection. Below are some of the comments readers have shared so far when we asked, “Contractors, craftspeople, and anyone working in construction or skilled trades, please tell us what your biggest work-related challenges are right now so that we can reach out to our strong, creative, and caring community to try to find some useful advice. Also, please share any creative ideas you’ve come up with so we can all get through this difficult time together.”
You can read all of the reader comments or share your own in the original Facebook post.
“Our challenge is keeping 6 ft. away each other in a kitchen or bathroom in a newly constructed house with many other trades around us.” —Shaun C.
“We do home renovations. Wholesale suppliers are not getting products delivered, and there are delays due to overseas shipping of the products we use. I also got notice today that another distributor was deemed nonessential and was shut down. Unfortunately, we’ve had to close up shop for the time being, until we start to get over the hump.”—Kevin D.
“My biggest challenge has been homeowners backing out of projects. We were booked solid for months; now we are thinning out the schedule too much for me to feel confident in the rest of the year. For a large-scale remodel I’m working on, I’ve had issues with materials that I ordered—it’s uncertain when they will arrive. I’m hoping my fellow contractors can pull through this tough time and make the best of what we all are dealing with.” —Sullivan Professional Construction INC.
“There is scarcely running water and soap onsite. We have hand sanitizer in our Porta Potties that we share with the other 100+ workers on the site.” —Chris L.
“I love what I do as a carpenter, and I would like to continue to build. I also have a keen interest in the #KeepCraftAlive movement, and I would love to figure out a way to be more involved. Perhaps a grassroots type of campaign to get the word out to young people locally.” —Daniel M.
“I’ve switched to helping with emergency life and safety issues only. As soon as this passes, I’ll get back to building.”—Alexander C.
“We’re noticing a lot of homeowners doing DIY projects during quarantine. Lowe’s was buzzing this past weekend, especially in the paint department. I’ve heard some creative remodelers planning on doing DIY videos for easy-to-tackle projects.”—CIG Construction
“Right now we’re not even sure if we’re allowed to go to work, or in what capacity. So it’s home projects and shop cleaning for now.” —Troy F.
“I’m in a tough spot in New Jersey. I have projects to do, but my customers have asked me to hold off because of health concerns and an uncertain financial climate. The other projects I had lined up for late spring/early summer require permits, and the building departments are closed until further notice.” —Daniel M.
“We have lots of work, but I have had to severely cut people’s hours because even though we are deemed an essential business, people are isolating in their homes and don’t want us there.” — Adam L.
“Building departments are shut down, so no permits are being issued or inspected. Materials are in short supply due to trucking and supply chain issues. Nobody wants you in or near their home… I expect a devastating impact on the remodeling markets, more interest in DIY, growth of unlicensed/uninsured businesses, and a further contraction/consolidation of legitimate remodeling businesses.” —John P.
“As of Monday, the city of Richmond VA, has stopped doing inspections . . . This will force contractors to completely shut down jobs or move forward and face the consequences later. People want their kitchens and bathrooms back, but everyone is being patient and understanding. Public safety is the priority now.” —Joseph H.
Image: Paul Brennan from Pixabay
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