Whether you work in the construction industry already, or just have amazing skills and are planning to get some qualifications, many people dream of starting their own construction business. However, unlike many small businesses, working in construction means you need a lot of specialist tools, and it’s important to invest in quality items that will stand the test of time.
If you’re planning to start a construction firm, here are a few of the essentials you’ll need.
Plant machinery
Diggers, drillers, and large items of plant machinery can be extremely costly to buy outright. It’s worth considering whether you should buy or hire machinery for your construction company, as in the early days it may make more sense to hire by the day. As your business grows, you’ll no doubt start to oversee larger and larger projects, so it may work out cheaper to finance or buy plant machinery outright, so it’s something to think about in your long-term plans.
Hiring plant machinery can often make more sense, as some businesses spend a fortune on tools that they rarely use, then sell them at a loss further down the line. It can make life easier to rent bigger items when you’re just starting out.
Software
Modern construction firms will no doubt need many different kinds of software in order to function, from HR management, to design, to creating estimates. It’s important to think about what construction tech tools you might need, and if you’re not up to speed on the latest software, then it’s worth taking a course so that you can make the most out of your investment.
Ladders
Ladders are an important construction tool, and it’s no good buying the cheapest one as this could compromise safety and will need to be replaced in a short time. Ladders are worth investing in, as they’ll last for many years. You’ll probably want to buy extension ladders as well as a platform ladder, which are useful for when you have to spend long periods at a height.
Saws
Saws are an important part of your tool collection, and again, it’s worth investing in quality when you are starting a business. The saws that are designed for DIY jobs simply won’t hold up if you plan to use them for large scale projects. There are many different types of saws, from hand saws for woodworking, to circular saws for cutting lumber, so think about the types of services you’ll be offering and buy accordingly.
Adhesive, sealants and paints
Usually, smaller supplies such as adhesives and sealants are bought on a project-by-project basis, but it doesn’t hurt to have a few of these basics around for last-minute and small handyman-type jobs. After all, it saves you a trip to the hardware store. You can seal awkward gaps, hollows and cavities with expanding foam, so it’s handy to have some in your vehicle at all times, and PVA glue can be used with a variety of materials, both inside and outside, so you’re bound to use it a lot.
Drills
As a construction professional, you’ll know the importance of good quality drills, and it’s important that you use reliable, hard-wearing equipment. You’ll probably want a selection of rotary and hammer drills, as it’s helpful to have spares. You should also ensure you have a wide selection of different types of drill bits to fit your drills, including universal bits that can be used on various materials, plus specialist bits for skilled projects.
Company vehicles
It’s not really any use buying numerous specialist tools if you don’t have a way to get them to the job site. Your company’s vehicles are hugely important tools, as they get you to where you need to be – which is with your customers on time. So, with this in mind, they need to be extremely reliable, robust, and able to cope with the demands of a busy construction company.
When it comes to choosing a work vehicle, you should bear the following considerations in mind:
- Reliability
- Safety
- Comfort inside the cab
- Loading limits
- Towing capacity
Style is also a consideration, although it should feature a little lower down the list. When you work in construction, you visit customer’s homes directly, so the first impression is important. If you turn up in a scruffy, battered and tired-looking truck, then they might think this reflects your workmanship.
An all-purpose tool kit
It’s worth getting a well-stocked tool kit for all those little jobs. If you already work in construction, you’ll know which items you use the most, from a hammer, to different size screwdrivers. Seriously consider getting a tool belt too, as it makes life much easier when you’re climbing up and down ladders.
Basic supplies
Most jobs will require you to give an estimate, and plan a date to come back and get it done. However, in the early days, you’ll probably be taking on smaller jobs, and if you have some basics in your truck such as timber and drywall, then you can easily do jobs such as fixing holes in walls or small repairs. Some construction firms won’t take on these smaller jobs as they’re not worth their while, but it’s a good way to advertise your services and encourage some cash flow when things are tight.
A good business strategy
People who work in construction often have numerous practical skills, but can struggle when it comes to the business side – no one can have it all. You may want to work with a marketing firm or business advisor in the early days, as this will help with branding recognition, business strategy, and more. While you may know which tools you need in your vehicle, you may not know where to begin to start getting contracts, so make sure you work on this side of the business too.
Starting and nurturing a construction firm can be tough, as it often means a large outlay to begin with, but given time and determination, it can be a profitable enterprise that’s ideal for hard-working entrepreneurs.
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