Getting Started

[frank36]

Hello All,
just a few questions, I am new to the starting process of owner-operator paver and wall installation. I am not new to the work, have been doing for 5 years with someone who has kept me very busy all summer. I obviously have done my work well in order for him to keep getting new clients but now it is my turn to try it on my own. I have my own tools for installation and bought a older dump truck for hauling materials. I guess one question is, what is the going rate for pavers and wall installation that you guys are getting. I am thinking my numbers should be in the 10-15 dollars per sq. for pavers and 26 dollars a sq. and up for walls. I am also in the need of a good tamper something new and reliable for medium to large jobs. I am curious to know which brand and model you all recommend using? I know I will have to also rent a bobcat for the bigger jobs until I can afford to get one on my own but any advice or helpful hints would be great for the starting up process. I am hoping to really get my name out there this year but may be tough with the way the economy is now but one satisfied customer will lead to another.
Thanks for any help

[Glenn W]

Frank - Welcome to the world of "being your own boss." How does it feel to be what the Democrates consider "rich?" I could go on, but I won't. Regarding your questions: what you can charge for your work depends on a lot of factors - you can't just lock in on a specific price/sq.ft. Think of it as charging $x per hour; not $x per sq.ft. (you're selling labor - not pavers). Learn your true cost per hour, then charge a reasonable profit. Sounds simple but it's not. I suggest attending small business classes and seminars. Go to the Hardscape North America (HNA) Trade Show in Nashville (end of Feb. '08) and sign up for classes. As for a compactor, Weber is an excellent choice. Don't buy a small one just so you can lift it easier - you'll pay for that decision for as long as you own it. Pave Tech also has a compactor designed specifically for paver installation. Again HNA is a good place to see all your options. Also - the economy is not as bad as what you read and hear...it is what you make of it. Good luck!!

[ProspectsStoneWorks]

Frank,
Glenn is 1000% correct. Attend some of these seminars and classes put on at trade shows, or the ICPI & NCMA classes sponsored by alot of these paver manufacturers. I am freshly into my own new business myself, and I was asking myself the same questions you are. Square foot is NOT the way to go, how much you're going to bust your balls on the job is your most important factor. That, and the cost of recovering your overhead. Get into some classes and soak it all up.

As far as looking for a tamper, I assume you mean a small hand tamper? Like a 6x6 or 8x8 cast iron type dingy? If so, look into the POUNDER put out by Probst. I just ordered mine and I'm freaking stoked for it to come in. Looks like a real real solid piece and it has interchangable tips for it. If your looking for a Plate Compactor then Wacker seems to be decent enough quality at decent prices, but sort of lacks in weight and nut if you know what I mean. If you're looking for a burly Compactor and are willing to pay for it, then look into Weber. Hope this helps. Any questions on running the new business, don't be afraid to ask. I wish I had found a forum like this 2 years ago.

[gryan]

I agree with the above. Know your costs, not just paver but all materials down to spikes and joint sand. Know your labor costs, true costs not just what your guys wages are and know that you have to make a profit on top of it. Sell on value and not rpice and you'll do ok.

I used a Dynapac lf3820. It was a heavy SOB but hit hard and was fast for a decent price. Seems like the Wackers get a better resale rate if thats important to you down the road.

Good luck in your ventures