Jake":180jzr0c said:
The car paint might peel. They use (or should use) special paint, which has a silane base (same technology as UV glass glues). Here's the supplier I found, the name came back to me.
http://www.avko.co.uk/index.php?option= ... rate=Glass
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Just joined and have read whole thread with interest.
Glad you're nearing the end of what looks like a marathon but the end result looks very good. bet that's worth a few brownie points.
I wouldn't have thought twice about the job which to me is a small one but I found it very interesting to read how even the smaller problems which a pro would take in his stride, become a major cause of concern to the layman.
Too far down the line or I would have put in my pennerth a number of times but just a thought about the splashback - Having a painted red one would seriously restrict any future colour you might want to use on the walls. Unless you're lucky enough that your other half doesn't nag for new decor every few years, (no -one is that lucky), or you will always paint red.
ps
I'm obviously a builder (sole trader, small business). Problem is that people get caught because for many reasons, we all want a Rolls for the price of a mini.
Many use the "free" services of builders (and other trades) to do most of the specification and research work for them rather than employ someone. That is a lot of unpaid work for say 3 or 4 builders for a typical job they may not get
All of my work is word of mouth - good for my customers - good for me and I won't take a job on if it doesn't feel right. From experience - it won't be!
You get what you pay for in most things and not just paying for labour but expertise, experience and knowledge as well. That surely is true of all but the most menial work is it not?
A solid, reputable company will always have higher overheads than cowboy firms to cover proper insurance, wages, training, equipment. They will always protect their reputation hard gained over years.
Any logical person can do the sums.
I would NEVER give a fixed price for a job which involves groundworks or drainage because there is no way you can easily determine what problems you'll find.
I give a price (fully specced and documented) but assuming no unforseen problems and keep my customers informed and involved at every step, but incidently, there is nothing worse than having a customer stand over you while you work. At best, the job is slowed significantly and at worst there are heath and safety issues which could affect the tradesmans' liability insurance. Word will get around the trade and people will either not quote or load it to include the lost time - doesn't mean they're cheating, just earning a living.
Remember also - despite old saying - the customer is NOT
always right.