Tips for setting up a Plastering business.

[Jimmy900]

Hi there

Just wondering if anyone could give me any tips on setting up a plastering business. I got my City & Guilds from a training course where I completed and was assessed on the main aspects of plastering but I understand that I'm not as experienced as those who are time served.

I've asked about becoming a laborer maybe for free to build up experience but there are very few plasterers where I stay and they say that they wouldn't be interested in a laborer helping out. I know how to mix plaster etc.

I'm pretty confident in my skimming abilities but not so confident with outside wall rendering even though I did manage to pass a test (just not familiar in different environments).

So what were the main hurdles that I would meet along the way? What's the best way in getting work and experience? If anybody could help out that would be grand (I may be getting a loan out to get a van and tools).

 

[estwig]

You must have family and friends with nice artexed ceilings?

Offer to skim them for the cost of the plaster, a cup of tea and a recommendation. Take before and after pictures.

 

[theRB]

It's not often people will pass up on free labour in exchange for a few brews and a recommendation. Do you know any landlords that might need a little bit of tidying up?

 

[Gabbalot]

Jimmy

Contact the larger building firms in your area ask if they have a sub contractors list that you can go on (most do).

Tell them you can do a trail day for free so they can assess your work and that your willing to work anytime including weekends (most of there own staff wont)

Also get out there and network. BNI and other such organsations are ideal they wilk put you together with business owners who would rather use someibe they now then someone out of the phone book.

Best of luck



Sent from my GT-I9100 using UK Business Forums

 

[tony84]

Where are you based? Im guessing its not close to manchester?

Ive got a bathroom and a couple of smaller jobs that need doing if your after the experience it would cost me less and give you the experience - win win

 

[DavidAshdown]

What about joining a local trade association. I think I saw a thread on here about one recently. They may be able to give you some useful tips and advice and possibly a 'leg-up'.

 

[HFE Signs]

Can you Tile too? The two trades go very well together.

Local paper, flyers, van signage, a-board, banners and of course the good old word of mouth.. if you're honest and reliable you have a massive market. See if you can leave a few flyers on the counters at tile shops..?

Good luck with this..