In the bustling construction world, where every detail matters, access panels are crucial in concealing and providing easy access to plumbing and electrical components. These seemingly simple fixtures streamline maintenance and repair tasks, making life easier for construction professionals.  In this blog post, we’ll dive into the real-world scenarios where access panels come to the rescue, unraveling the mysteries behind their practical applications.  The Basics of Access Panels    Before exploring real-world scenarios, let’s begin with the fundamentals.   Access panels refer to panels integrated into walls or ceilings, providing convenient access to concealed elements such as plumbing pipes, electrical wires, and various building systems. These panels are designed to seamlessly blend into the surrounding structure while providing a discreet entry point for maintenance and repairs.  Now, let’s explore how access panels work their magic in practical situations:  1. Concealing Plumbing Woes  Imagine a scenario where a commercial building’s plumbing system needs urgent attention. Without access panels, reaching the pipes hidden behind walls would involve breaking down sections of the structure, causing significant disruption and escalating costs.  Access panels like the BA-AHD flush universal access door come into play by offering a convenient entry point to the concealed plumbing network. Whether fixing a leak, replacing a damaged pipe, or conducting routine inspections, access panels provide a hassle-free solution.   Construction professionals can simply open the panel, perform the necessary tasks, and close it back up—all without disturbing the building’s aesthetics.  2. Taming the Electrical Jungle  Troubleshooting and repairs can be daunting in the intricate web of electrical wirings that power our buildings. Access panels simplify this process by directly accessing electrical components behind walls or ceilings. Electricians can easily reach junction boxes, outlets, and wiring connections without invasive and time-consuming measures.  Consider a scenario where a faulty outlet needs immediate attention. With access panels strategically placed, electricians can swiftly identify and address the issue, minimizing downtime and inconvenience. The streamlined process ensures that construction projects stay on schedule and within budget.  3. Enhancing Safety Inspections  Safety is paramount in construction, and regular inspections are key to ensuring a secure environment for occupants. Access panels facilitate safety inspections by providing quick and efficient access to critical building systems. Fire sprinkler pipes, HVAC ducts, and other safety-related components hidden from view can be easily examined without causing disruptions.  For example, inspectors can access concealed fire sprinkler systems through well-placed access panels during a routine fire safety inspection. This enables them to verify the system’s functionality, ensuring it is ready to respond effectively in an emergency.  4. Speeding Up Renovation Projects  Construction professionals know that renovations often involve navigating through existing structures. Access panels become invaluable in renovation projects, allowing for seamless integration of new elements or modifications to existing ones.  Imagine a scenario where a restaurant undergoes a renovation to install a new ventilation system. Access panels are necessary for the process, which requires extensive demolition to reach and connect the ductwork. Access panels strategically placed in the walls or ceilings provide a non-disruptive solution, allowing contractors to install the new system efficiently without compromising the overall structure.  Challenges When Dealing with Access Panels  Incorporating access panels into building design and construction comes with a unique set of challenges that construction professionals might face. From aesthetic and functional factors to strict regulatory requirements, coordinating all the elements can be complex. Some specific challenges commonly encountered include:  Integration with Design Aesthetics: Balancing the functional requirements of access panels with the overall design aesthetics of the space can be challenging. Ensuring access panels blend seamlessly with the surrounding architecture may require creative solutions.  Size and Location: Determining the appropriate size and location of access panels is crucial. Ensuring that they provide sufficient access to the systems behind them while minimizing their impact on the design and flow of the space can be challenging.  Fire Rating and Building Codes: Meeting fire rating requirements and building codes is essential. Ensuring access panels maintain the required fire resistance and comply with local regulations may pose challenges, especially in sensitive areas like fire-rated partitions.  Structural Considerations: Incorporating access panels without compromising the structural integrity of the building can be a challenge. Professionals must ensure that the installation of access panels keeps the overall structure intact.  Water and Air Tightness: Access panels in areas prone to moisture or air infiltration must be designed to be water and airtight. Ensuring that access panels maintain the integrity of the building envelope can be challenging, particularly in humid or harsh weather conditions.  Security Concerns: Access panels may provide entry points for unauthorized individuals. Ensuring that access panels are secure and can only be opened by authorized personnel is vital for maintaining the safety and security of the building.  Accessibility and Ergonomics: Designing access panels that are easily accessible and user-friendly for maintenance personnel is important. Consideration must be given to the ease of opening, closing, and securing access panels to facilitate regular maintenance and inspections.  Cost Considerations: Balancing the functional requirements of access panels with budget constraints can be challenging. Identifying cost-effective solutions that meet the necessary specifications without compromising quality is an ongoing concern for construction professionals.  Coordination with Other Trades: Collaborating with other trades, such as electrical and plumbing contractors, to ensure that access panels are properly integrated into the overall system can be challenging. Coordination is crucial to avoid conflicts and ensure a smooth installation.  Conclusion  Access panels emerge as silent facilitators in the dynamic construction world, simplifying maintenance and repair tasks. These fixtures prove their worth by seamlessly integrating into the building structure while providing quick and easy access to concealed elements.  In the ongoing challenges encountered by construction professionals in the construction and maintenance of structures, access panels emerge as dependable companions. They are crucial in facilitating efficient, cost-effective tasks while minimizing disruptions.   The next time you come across these access panels, acknowledge their vital contribution to maintaining the optimal condition of buildings. They’re the unsung heroes of streamlined maintenance and repair in the construction industry. 

Getting your first job in the construction industry can be tricky, especially if you don’t have any experience. The good news is that construction jobs are in high demand right now, so if you do your best to prepare yourself to make a good impression, there’s a high chance you can land that job. Assuming you are willing to put in the work – because construction is hard work – here are some essential steps to help you start a career in construction, whether you have industry experience or not. Obtain Relevant Education and Training While there is technically no formal education requirement to become a construction worker, many employees prefer working with people with a high school diploma, at the very least. If you want to increase your chances of landing your first job in construction, we highly recommend enrolling in relevant courses if possible. Certifications, like OSHA safety certifications, can also enhance your employability. Build Practical Skills Construction is, first and foremost, a hands-on industry, so building your practical skills is of utmost importance. Not sure how to go about this? Apply for internships and apprenticeships. You’ll be working alongside experienced professionals who can teach you essential skills (sometimes impossible to learn from simply reading books) and expose you to the realities of the job. As long as you remain eager to learn and not afraid to ask questions, you’ll gain valuable knowledge and, more importantly, real skills. Write a Professional Resume Your resume is your first impression on potential employers, so it’s extremely important to craft a professional resume that highlights your skills, education, and any relevant experience you’ve gained. Even if you don’t have any construction experience, it’s important to have a clear and concise resume. Just tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for and highlight the fact that you’re willing to learn, hard-working, and dependable. If you have any certifications or licenses, highlight them as well. Prepare for Interviews When you land an interview, make sure you’re prepared for it. Start by researching the company you’re interviewing with and be ready to discuss how your skills and experience align with their needs. Before you actually have an interview, take some time to practice common interview questions so you can feel more confident when the time comes. During the interview, emphasize your work ethic, commitment to safety, and willingness to learn and adapt to the demands of the job. Apply Strategically While it might be tempting to apply everywhere they look for construction workers, your best bet is to apply for jobs that actually match your skills and experience level. Sure, enthusiasm and confidence matter, but applying for positions that are beyond your current abilities may not yield the best results. It’s best to start with entry-level or apprentice roles, and as you gain experience, you can work your way up the ladder. Stay Persistent Securing your first job in the construction industry may take time and patience. It’s important to be realistic so you don’t get discouraged by rejection, which you’re sure to experience at least once in your professional life. Being rejected from a position you want is never pleasant, but as long as you stay optimistic and persistent, your determination will pay off. Continuously Learn Once you’ve landed your first job, your journey in the construction industry has just begun. To make sure you have a secure future in construction, commit to continuous learning. Attend workshops, pursue further certifications, and seek opportunities for advancement within your chosen career path. This is the recipe for success in a constantly changing environment, such as construction.

In the management of warehouses, it is important to be aware of the dangers that could occur at the workplace. It is easy to be lenient with these risks, especially when there hasn’t been an incident in a while. Although there have been technological advancements and the use of automated devices has become widespread, warehouses still heavily rely on human workers. Because of this, warehouse managers need to prioritize the staff’s safety and well-being. In this article, we will explore the major causes of warehouse accidents and provide practical solutions to prevent them. Common Causes of Warehouse Accidents Slips, Trips, and Falls A study by the US Department of Labor showed that 25% of workplace injuries are caused by falls and slips. Warehouses become hazardous when water seeps in through a leaky roof or liquid spills on the floor accidentally. This creates slippery surfaces that pose a risk to workers. Water is not the only source of concern; spilled oil or chemicals can make the situation more dangerous. Falling Objects As businesses expand, there’s often a rush to utilize every inch of warehouse space.  This haste can result in haphazard stacking and overloading of shelves. A minor disturbance or a weak shelf can send products crashing down.  Periodic shelf inspections and adhering to load recommendations are essential. Forklift Accidents With their robust engines and piercing forks, these vehicles are indispensable yet potentially deadly.  Forklift safety videos and operation courses are essential tools you can utilize to prevent accidents. A distracted operator or a minor mechanical fault can lead to significant accidents. Having clear forklift lanes, installing warning lights, and rigorous operator training can greatly reduce these risks. Poor Ergonomics The design of a worker’s space can have a profound impact on their health.  Continual lifting, bending, or reaching awkwardly strains the body over time, possibly leading to chronic conditions.  Regular ergonomic assessments, providing adjustable workstations, and training in safe lifting techniques are essential. Electrical and Fire Hazards Electrical malfunctions aren’t just about flickering lights. They can sometimes spark fires, especially when flammable materials are poorly stored nearby. Routine electrical system checks, coupled with a robust fire response system (including sprinklers and accessible fire extinguishers), can help prevent disasters. Chemical Spills and Exposures Some warehouses store chemicals, and some of them can be volatile. When these substances leak or mix, they can produce toxic fumes or even explode.  Chemical safety training, proper labeling, and having spill cleanup kits accessible can counteract these dangers. Lack of Proper Training and Communication Assumptions are dangerous. Assuming a worker knows how to operate machinery or handle chemicals, it can be catastrophic. Regular refresher courses, language-specific instructions, and open channels for raising concerns are essential. Insufficient Lighting and Signage Dimly lit corners or blindingly bright lights can both lead to accidents.  Proper, even lighting, especially in areas with vehicle traffic or intricate manual tasks, should be made available.  High-visibility signage, possibly even with reflective or luminescent properties, can guide workers safely. Inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) PPE, from safety goggles to steel-toed boots, acts as the last line of defense against accidents.  Management should not only provide quality PPE but also strictly enforce its use. Regular audits can help in this regard. Congestion and Clutter A cluttered warehouse isn’t just an eyesore; it’s a hazard. Boxes stacked in aisles, misplaced pallets, or even abandoned equipment can lead to trips, falls, or obstructions in emergencies.  Implementing lean warehouse principles and frequent decluttering drives can transform chaos into order. Proactive Measures to Prevent Warehouse Accidents Regular Safety Audits and Inspections Third-party inspections can offer an external perspective on potential hazards, as they are free of internal biases.  These audits, complemented by internal checks, ensure a holistic safety approach. Comprehensive Training Programs Beyond initial orientation, periodic safety workshops, emergency drills, and even gamified safety challenges can keep safety at the forefront of every worker’s mind. Clear Signage and Communication Using technology, such as digital sign boards for IoT devices that alert workers about hazards, can be game-changers.  Furthermore, monthly safety briefings ensure everyone is on the same page. Mandatory Use and Availability of PPE Regular spot-checks, incentives for consistent PPE use, and quick replacements for damaged equipment ensure that workers are always protected. Emphasizing Cleanliness and Organization The Japanese concept of ‘5S’ (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) can be a guiding principle, ensuring that everything has a place and clutter is minimized. Ergonomic Solutions and Workstation Design Incorporating feedback from workers, introducing tools like lifting belts, and ensuring regular breaks can promote ergonomic health. Equipment Maintenance and Certification A logbook for each significant piece of equipment, recording its maintenance schedule and any faults, may be quite useful.  This method guarantees that interventions are made before breakdowns occur. Robust Emergency Protocols Clear, illuminated escape routes, frequent evacuation drills, and accessible emergency medical kits can make the difference between a minor incident and a tragedy.

The construction industry is competitive but also an area of growth. Between 2020 and 2025, there is an estimated growth of 4.5% – which might not sound like a lot. However, if you consider that there was a halt put on all building projects for between 2-3 years, the bounceback from that is sharp.  With the global construction industry back in full swing, the US market alone is expected to grow by one trillion dollars between 2020 and 2023 (Statista). There has never been a better time than to look for sustainable business growth.  Transforming your company from a small to a medium is not the smallest of undertakings, and many moving parts need to be taken into consideration.  What is the difference between a small and medium company? While the exact definitions can vary slightly based on location, some defining factors make a business either small, medium or large.  Most often, it comes down to the size of the employee pool. In the United Kingdom, a Small business is considered to have a turnover of less than £10 million and less than 50 (1-49) employees. A Medium business has less than 50-249 employees and a revenue of less than £50 million.  The scope between the two is substantiation when looking at revenue alone. There is also the micro business, which has less than £2 million in revenue and fewer than ten employees.  For those who are hoping to move from micro to small or small to medium, the same steps can be followed to get there.  Employees The first step to growing into a medium-sized business is expanding your team. With the team expanded, you can take on larger projects, and an increased revenue will follow. Although many companies wait for the revenue to be increased, then hire.  Going with a people-first approach will allow you to also look at your current team. You can highlight skill gaps (and put the right people on courses), remove those not working with your vision and hire the right people.  Your current long-term team might be on a permanent full-time basis, but as you expand your workforce, you can add different contract types.  You can have a range of casual workers who get called in when the work increases, full-time contracts, part-time, apprenticeships and interns. Whatever works with your business. You might also opt for different pay rates and options like pro rata salary and flat day rates.  Network  How many of your previous clients have come through your network vs. how many you have pitched for without prior knowledge or recommendation? Networking in any business is essential. The point of networking is for your lead flow to be bigger. Specific networking tips for the construction industry:  Revisit the plan Your original business plan was written for the starting 18 months and beyond; they are great for tracking your progress and growth. They can also be rewritten because the objective now is to grow from small to medium.  Selective  Start making a point to bid only one job that is going to be profitable, not just fast and paid. One of the defining factors between smaller businesses and medium (or large) is the work that they take on. Typically, larger projects with more profits and a limit on the number of contracts that will be taken at the same time.  Not only that, but they will lean into their core competencies too – i.e. more likely to be contacted for selective bidding or directly contacted for specific tasks.  Online  Construction companies should excel in local SEO. Even if the plan is to be national or global, work on local SEO with immediacy. Local SEO is powerful for construction companies because it increases awareness, traffic quality and organic traffic. Local businesses and people are looking for local companies and people for jobs like construction.  A combination of a freelance writer or content company and a plan like this one: A Comprehensive Guide to Local SEO in 2023 can be a great start. It is also a good idea to ensure you have claimed your Google Business profile.  Machinery and Equipment  There are typically two options when it comes to construction companies and their machinery and equipment – one is that it is rented, and the other is that it is owned. Hiring can be a better financial decision during the growth period until the revenue has increased to the point where buying is a better choice.  With hiring, you don’t need to cover high maintenance costs; you can select the right equipment for the jobs you’re bidding for, and there is increased safety (the vehicles and equipment are well-maintained).  Increase Prices The cost of materials increases yearly; recent figures suggest that over 80% of the construction materials used have increased by about 19% since 2020. While you might’ve adjusted the work and the final price – future planning means increasing costs enough to factor in future increases and remain comfortable and profitable.  Your current price and future price should be reflective of your typical customers.  There are plenty of opportunities that support the growth of small construction businesses for the next few years. Taking steps slowly will offer sustained growth.  For construction business owners aiming to grow, the industry has exciting potential. Despite its challenges, there’s a projected 4.5% growth from 2020 to 2025, with the US market alone set to boom by a cool trillion by 2023. Expand your team, network like a pro, and revisit your business plan. Tech and local SEO can be your most robust tools, and be smart about machinery rental or buying. 

Are your sash windows showing signs of rot? We have put together the essential tips for restoring sash windows and repairing rotten frames and sills effectively. Follow this expert advice from the leading sash window repair and replacement professionals, perfect for maintaining your windows’ timeless beauty. Rotten Frames and Sills Sash windows, with their classic charm, add character to any property. However, over time, these windows may face the challenge of rotting frames and sills, which can compromise both their aesthetic appeal and functionality. Restoring sash windows and repairing rotten frames and sills can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach and techniques, it can be a rewarding project. Here are some key steps and tips to help you get started: 1. Identifying signs of rotten frames and sills Before diving into the restoration process, it’s essential to identify signs of rot in your sash window frames and sills. Look for discoloration, soft spots, and visible mould or mildew. Gently probe the wood with a screwdriver to check for softness or decay. Identifying the extent of the damage will guide you in choosing the best way to fix any problem. 2. What is causing the rot? You’ll need to get to the bottom of what is causing the rot to occur. Common causes include exposure to moisture, insect infestations, and poor maintenance. By keeping on top of these you will add years more life to your sash window frames and sills. 3. Do you need a sash window repair and replacement expert? Deciding whether to undertake the restoration yourself or hire a professional is a critical step. While minor repairs can be DIY-friendly, extensive damage might require the expertise of a skilled professional. Consider your experience, available time, and the scale of the restoration project before making a decision. 4. Use the Right Tools for the Job Going ahead with the DIY approach? Some tools you might need include chisels, wood filler, sandpaper, a utility knife, and a paintbrush. The right tools will ensure precision and efficiency during the restoration process. 4 Steps to Windowsill and Frame Restoration Removing Rotted Wood: Start by carefully removing the rotted sections of the frames and sills using a chisel. Take your time to avoid causing further damage to the surrounding areas. Applying Wood Filler: Once the rotted wood is removed, apply a reliable wood filler to the affected areas. Make sure the filler matches the colour and type of wood for a seamless finish. Sanding: After the filler dries, sand the repaired areas until smooth. Painting: Apply a primer to the repaired areas before painting to enhance adhesion and protection against future damage. Choose a weather-resistant paint that complements the rest of your property. Preserving Your Hard Work To prolong the life of your restored sash windows and prevent future rot, follow these maintenance tips: Wooden Window frame and Windowsill FAQs Q: How can I tell if my sash window frames and sills are rotting? A: Look for signs of discoloration, softness, and visible mould or mildew. Gently probing the wood with a screwdriver can also help identify decay. Q: Can I repair rotted sash window frames myself? A: Minor repairs can be DIY-friendly, but extensive damage might require professional expertise. Q: What causes sash window frames and sills to rot? A: Common causes include exposure to moisture, insect infestations, and poor maintenance Q: What tools do I need for sash window restoration? A: Essential tools include chisels, wood filler, sandpaper, a utility knife, and a paintbrush. Q: How do I prevent future rot after restoration? A: Regular inspections, proper ventilation, protective coatings, and seasonal maintenance are essential preventive measures. Restoring sash windows and repairing rotten frames and sills can breathe new life into your home. By identifying signs of rot, understanding the causes, and following the right restoration process, you can successfully revitalise your sash windows without needing to replace the whole lot which is better for the environment, and your bank balance.

In the intricate world of construction, establishing and managing a successful company can be a challenging endeavor. When addressing the Canadian market, these challenges take on unique nuances, demanding a keen understanding of local regulations and market trends.  This guide aims to simplify your journey by providing actionable insights into running an effective construction company. From building teams and embracing technology to nurturing customer relationships and practicing sustainable business models, we explore vital tips that have the potential to propel your construction business toward success in the Great White North. 1. Understand the Canadian Construction Market To run a successful construction company in Canada, a clear understanding of the Canadian construction market is crucial. This necessitates a comprehensive exploration into prevailing market rates, trending market practices, and the cost of labor and construction materials.  Understanding the landscape of the industry within Canada is an integral first step that can shape your strategic planning effectively and put you on a solid footing in this competitive sector. 2. Build a Strong Team A successful construction company relies heavily on its team. Assembling a talented group of individuals with a diverse array of skills is vital. It’s also important to create an environment that motivates your team to give their best every day, so work on developing a company culture.  Consider encouraging their efforts and rewarding them with plaques to highlight their exceptional performance, contributing to enhanced work productivity and loyalty towards the company. 3. Adopt Advanced Technology Embracing advanced technology is a game-changer for any construction company looking to succeed in Canada. Modern construction tools such as 3D modeling and Building Information Modeling (BIM) can streamline your process, enhance efficiency, and decrease error rates.  Additionally, using these innovative technologies will also position you as a forward-thinking firm among your clients and competitors. Therefore, adopting technology offers immense rewards. 4. Maintain Excellent Customer Service For any successful business, maintaining excellent customer service is of key importance, and it is no different for construction businesses in Canada. Prioritize creating a great rapport with your clients and customers and meeting their specific needs to ensure they are happy and satisfied.  A company with excellent customer service not only increases its chances of gaining repeat and loyal business but also stands to benefit from powerful word-of-mouth testimonials and referrals.  5. Be Compliant with Laws Operating a construction company in Canada comes with myriad rules and regulations. To avoid any legal fallout, it’s essential to ensure all business operations strictly adhere to these laws.  These encompass various areas such as environmental protection measures, zoning restrictions, safety standards, and workers’ rights. Non-compliance can lead to heavy penalties, project delays, or even loss of license. Being compliant also enhances your brand’s reputation. 6. Ensure Quality Workmanship An exceptional reputation is built on the quality of your workmanship. As a construction company in Canada, consistently ensuring high-quality services should remain your top priority.  This means using premium materials and employing skilled tradespeople who can bring your client’s vision to life with precision and skill. A focus on quality workmanship helps you develop a solid brand reputation, and it’s also key for establishing long-term relationships with clients. 7. Provide Clear Contracts Providing clear and comprehensive contracts is a crucial part of running a successful construction company in Canada. This doesn’t just mean listing out the services provided but also includes detailing cost breakdowns and outlining the timeline for project completion.  Presenting a transparent contract minimizes disputes later on and builds trust between your company and its clients. Clear contracts help cultivate mutual understanding and satisfaction. 8. Practice Sustainable Business Model  Adaptability is a hallmark of a successful construction business in Canada. This means practicing a sustainable business model that incorporates eco-friendly practices.  You can achieve this by using locally sourced materials, championing sustainability, or employing green building techniques in your projects. Not only does this approach save costs by utilizing more efficient materials and techniques, but it can also enhance your company’s image. 9. Network Extensively For your construction company to thrive in the competitive Canadian market, networking should be part of your strategy. Joining professional associations, participating in industry events, and engaging with civic leaders are just a few ways to increase your business’s visibility.  Networking might seem like a peripheral part of running a construction company, but it can open up opportunities for collaborations, partnerships, or simply gaining valuable advice from pros.  10. Offer Competitive Pricing Pricing strategy plays a critical role in running a successful construction company. It’s important to strike a balance between offering competitive pricing and maintaining business profitability.  While it might be tempting to undercut competitors, remember the quality of your work must never be compromised. A thought-out pricing strategy is based on both market trends and the value you’re providing to customers. Your customers should be getting a good deal from you.  In Conclusion… Running a successful construction company in Canada can be an accomplishment of enormous pride and financial reward. By arming yourself with these key business insights, you’re ensuring that your company is on the right path toward achieving its goals. 

With tradespeople across the country struggling to make ends meet, a new study has revealed that one in five are adapting their business to survive. The research, by leading designer radiator specialists BestHeating, asked 2,000 tradespeople about their thoughts for the future, and has led to experts providing advice to help anyone struggling in the industry. Financial pressures continue to trouble all trades and one in 10 are thinking about giving up their business, whilst a further 29% are willing to get a second job to survive. In an effort to keep themselves going, 11% have stated they are exploring new technologies so that they can adapt their work and attract customers. Many independent businesses don’t utilise social media but one in nine plan to use the likes of Facebook and Instagram more to show off the work they have done and expand their clientele. To support tradespeople, John Lawless, content marketing manager of BestHeating has provided three pieces of advice to help them be noticed by new customers and expand their business. Reviews “With search engines one of the go-to places to find a tradesperson, take advantage of this to improve your reputation. Make sure to ask anyone you do a job for to leave an online review, whether it’s through Google, Facebook, Trustpilot or any other site, as this will be the first thing a potential customer will see online. Take this further and react or respond to posts where possible, this lets customers know you are thankful and respectful of them. People who are new to an area are more likely to search online so it’s imperative to have a good average rating. Reviews also reflect highly on referral sites such as Checkatrade, which leads consumers to know the trade they have hired is certified.” Post consistently on social media “The best way to increase awareness of a local business is to publish content on social media regularly. Identify the platforms which your target audience use the most, this is likely to be Facebook and Instagram for homeowners and those who will need a tradesperson. Content should include completed work with before and after pictures or videos. Educational posts will also add value, this could be a heating engineer explaining the importance of bleeding a radiator. Be sure to post in the right places too – publish a project you worked on in the relevant online neighbourhood group, and add your personality so people can relate.” Diversify your offering “Keeping up to date with trends within the industry is good, but take this further and expand the services you offer to appeal to new customers. A key example right now is with energy efficiency and bills being top of the news agenda for over a year – incorporate newer or Smart technology to help people lower their bills and offer a wider variety of services such as installing better insulation, this will lead to more repeat business and an improved reputation.” Finally John adds: “With price rises affecting all trades, it is challenging to keep a business going as the public look to cut back on non-essential updates to their home. Increasing your number of customers is a difficult prospect and there is no surefire way to do so, but there are small steps that can be made to your strategy to help with growth. Whether it’s using social media to display stunning work you have done in the local area or encouraging people to leave reviews online, we hope our advice proves beneficial to those within the trade industry.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals