Tips for Starting a Carpentry Business

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Working in the carpentry business is predominantly commission-based. Generating business means creating luck by building a reputable reputation, and since construction is essential and always in-demand, running a successful carpentry business is possible. Use these tips for starting a carpentry business for an idea on how to lay the groundwork for success.

Specialize Your Craft

Carpentry businesses are responsible for building, maintaining, repairing, and renovating residential and commercial buildings. Consider what niche of carpentry to base a business on and decide if it will be a general or specialty carpentry business. Structural carpentry focuses on the structural integrity of buildings, while finish carpentry focuses on aesthetics that increase property values, such as restoring historic buildings. General carpentry is competitive, which means working within a specialized niche could be more profitable.

Develop Your Brand

With any business, developing a strong brand is key to standing out in the market. A carpentry business should have a professional-looking brochure, website, and business card. The work vehicle should be branded with the business name and logo as well as phone numbers and websites. If customers, and local zoning laws, permit it, place signs outside of work sites.

Word of mouth is a great source of free advertisement. Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews on the business website and leave some business cards with them to share with friends. A smart idea when first starting out is to offer work at reduced rates to build a reputation and attract new customers. Advertising in the local papers and with direct mail coupon companies can generate a lot of exposure. Lastly, don't forget about marketing the brand on social media. Carpenters should have a portfolio that shows examples of different types of projects to show potential customers.

A great way to create public relations and generate clients is by donating the carpentry business's services to community organizations or charities in need of skilled craftsmen. Being credited for sponsoring a day of AmeriCares or pitching in to help with building a community center will bring positive, free publicity.

Learn How To Earn Big

Carpentry businesses charge customers for the time, skill, labor, and materials needed for building projects. The prices are based on the skill level of the carpenter and the quality of materials used. Customers who contract carpenters have the financial means to build or repair properties. Carpentry businesses also work with building contractors and real estate developers.

Average carpenters charge a13-31 dollar hourly rate plus parts. Specialty carpenters can charge a higher hourly rate. Flat rates vary depending on the estimate of a specific type of project.

Set Up Shop

Carpenters need a set of high-quality, affordable tools in their workshop. Besides the basic tools, like a hammer, drill, chisel, and a tape measure, no workshop is complete without a saw. A proper workshop has a table saw, jigsaw, handsaws, and a miter saw. A carpenter will need a reliable van or truck that is branded with the company name a logo to transport these tools. Advertising is essential to building a customer base, so be sure to have visible and professional-looking branding on the vehicle.

Finding the best tools for the right price takes time spent researching products on the market to find the right fit. Woodworkology is an online tool review platform providing information about tools, projects, and techniques. From advice on the best router table and oscillating tools to sanders and wood glue, Woodworkology is a great reference for carpenters of any skill level.

Armor Up

Carpenters need to wear the right clothing while working to prevent injury. Zane Western Apparel & Work Gear carries high-quality western apparel and work gear from top brands like UnderArmour, Columbia, and Carhartt. Zane carries clothing for men and women, including big and tall sizes, and their orders ship within 24 hours.