A recent survey conducted on 750 builders by the family-owned builders merchants, Chandlers Building Supplies, has revealed that 95% of them have been asked for help or advice on an issue unrelated to their trade during the course of a homeowners building project.

Moreover, results show that 25% of builders have helped a homeowner through a personal crisis and one in four workers say they are asked regularly for financial advice. 80% have advised on home furnishing choices, while almost a fifth said they have been asked to help with completing school homework and childcare.

“While a refurbishment or renovation project is being completed, builders often find themselves consumed into the customer’s family life, so in many ways it is not surprising how involved some builders can become in their customers day to day lives,” said Sue McKinney from Chandlers Building Suppliers.

More than 80% of respondents said that they ‘loved their job’ and close to 90% would still choose a career in building and construction even if they could turn back time. The survey also found that 55% of builders have another job, such as fireman or sports coach/trainer.

The stress within the industry comes from ‘chasing payments and getting paid’ (54%), ‘the weather’ (47%), ‘ordering/waiting for materials’ (45%), ‘vat and tax returns’ (44%), and ‘managing apprentices’ (42%), while the most enjoyable part of it is ‘pride from a great job’ (86%) and ‘on site banter’ (81%).

“Research suggests that those who are happy and healthy are more productive and enjoy a better quality of life. Reducing stress levels among builders is an important mission for Chandler Building Supplies. Early this year we ran “Yoga with Your Boots On’ to help alleviate stress and increase levels of well-being among builders. We are also very mindful of the need for quick ordering and efficient delivery so builders don’t have to hold up a job by waiting on materials – which we appreciate can be very stressful,” said Sue.