Making Adjustments Before Winter

Winter is usually on the minds of contractors, especially those who do the majority of their work outside. Depending on where your construction business is located, the winter season can bring a time of near hibernation as demand slows. But for those looking for opportunities, some early planning and a bit of creativity can keep the work flowing and help finish the year well.

For any projects already on the books, you want to move them to a location where they can be continued inside when bad weather hits. Making sure you get your foundation out of the ground, site utilities installed, and the roof attached can set the stage for great winter work. 

Expanding services can be another way to stay busy during the winter. Approaching your existing clients may be a good place to start. After spending time with them on previous jobs and knowing their businesses, are there any projects they may want completed through the winter months? Do their offices need to be remodeled? Would they like a new kitchen? Does flooring need to be replaced? Are they interested in upgrading their lighting for better energy efficiency? Does their storage room need additional or improved shelving? Asking these questions and letting existing clients know what services you can provide could create opportunities.

There are many areas in which you could expand your services, and the slow season can be a good time to venture out. Installation of holiday lighting and decorations, cleaning services, snow plowing, and carpet cleaning can be sought-after services for companies during the holiday season. There are plenty of opportunities in residential work as well. Kitchen and bathroom remodeling, painting, replacing doors and windows, basement remodeling, flooring, custom woodwork, and general handyman work are all great services to provide. Winter can also be a great time to insulate attics and crawl spaces.

Having a shop can also create opportunities. Custom woodwork such as cabinets, entertainment centers, doors, and wall panels can be a good fit for a craftsman. Repairing snowmobiles, small engines, tools, and equipment may keep a mechanic busy.

Offering an incentive with your services may help you land more jobs and earn additional income. Being able to make the most of the off-season can improve a company’s success.