We’ve recently been playing with the idea of ‘Turn Key’ exterior service for custom builders. We currently have a siding division that was started in order to fill the need for replacement of bad LP & Masonite siding. I’m sure you have all heard of the class actions suits. Business is steady but we want more LOL.
This idea came from all the poorly installed windows, doors and flashing details we see on a daily basis. This, along with poor masonry installation, has led to the mold scare of late.
I realize the liability of this is emormous, however, we are a division of a very reputable custom builder here in the Midwest. Their 20 year reputation of quality and service after closing will be the selling point.
Here’s the concept:
Flashing- Install Ice & Water Sheild/Protecto Tape at vulnerable areas side walls, windows, doors, etc
Install windows and doors
Install trim & siding (horizontal lap, board & battan Etc)
Exterior paint & caulk
What do you think?
Your comments are welcomed & very appreciated!
Replies
Greetings i,
As a first time poster Welcome to Breaktime.
This post, in response to your question, will bump the thread through the 'recent discussion' listing again.
Perhaps it will catch someones attention that can help you with advice.
Cheers
'Nemo me impune lacesset'
No one will provoke me with impunity
I think it's a fantastic theory.
The problem lies in the real world. You want to offer a premium service. You'll have to find builders willing to pay a premium price. Most builders, even the custom jobs, are going to hit middle ground with their subs on price. They won't take the lowest bid, but most are not willing to buy the premium job either.
I struggle with the same thing from time to time. The sad part is, all of the things you are offering as services are just proper installation techniques. Really nothing premium about it until you hold it up against what is actually taking place on jobsites around the country. As a framer, I always offer proper housewrap installation as well as installation of Vycor or similar at window/door penetrations as an additional service amongst other 'upgrades'. A good deal of builders take me up on the housewrap installation, but few take us up on the Vycor around the windows or other detail oriented procedures. Few as in two in the last 18 months or so.
I find that most of the builders who are willing to "take it to the next level" often keep this sort of detailing as in-house labor to keep the costs down as most of it is just labor.
If you can find a way to keep your price somewhat competitive with the 'specialized' crews out there, it'll probably fly, especially if you already have a good name out there in your community. Many GC's welcome the chance at decreasing the # of subs they have to handle on a project. If you can offer to take on the job of 3 or 4 subs, stand behind the work, meet their schedules, and offer a somewhat competitive price then you just might be on to something. But that's a tall order. Another problem is that an awful lot of builders out there just don't know any better and won't see the benefit in spending a few dollars more on job that is truely 'done right' as opposed to one that is 'good enough'.
Just my perspective from where I'm standing.
Flashing on roofing or with window and door installs is part of the framing process and what we expect our framers to do as part of their contract.
Roofers we hire also are expected to flash where required.
Siders are also expected to caulk with metal/vinyl applications. With wood, we contract with the painters.
I would see your service as redundant for us.