How to Launch a Glass and Glazing Contractors Business

The glass and glazing business is a specialized area of work that is well-suited to those who want to start their independent contractor business. It involves fitting, installing, replacing, and repairing glass in windows and doors in different types of buildings and structures. While it doesn’t require any formal qualification, you can certainly boost your credibility by getting a glazing apprenticeship, enrolling in training workshops, or getting on-site experience in glazing and construction. 

As a glass and glazing contractor, you can even choose to specialize in a particular niche, such as working in commercial buildings or private homes. Depending on the number of employees and the resources you have, your customer acquisition targets will vary from year to year. In this regard, it is best that you include a comprehensive analysis of your operational needs and financial projections in your business plan and keep it up to date as things change. 

To help you get started, we share some important tips on how to launch a successful glass and glazing contractor business. 

Get Insurance

When you consider launching your business, always remember to obtain business insurance to minimize the chances of lawsuits or avoidable financial losses. In this case, you should look into getting glazier insurance to protect your employees and business from potential accidents, injuries, or damages. 

The cost for a glazier insurance policy will depend on the kind of insurance package and the premiums they are willing to pay. Remember that you can pay on a monthly basis or set up your billing to take place annually. At a minimum, you should aim to get the following types of insurance:

• General liability insurance to protect your business from any potential damage to the property or any kind of harm resulting from bodily injury. 
• Workers’ compensation to safeguard your employees from accidents and injuries on the worksite.
• Tools and equipment insurance to protect your business in case your gear gets stolen, damaged, or lost. 

Obtain Permits and Licenses

As a contracting business, you will also need to choose a name that is not already taken and then proceed with registering your business with the city or state. This will allow you to obtain the necessary permits and licenses to legally carry out your business. 

Additionally, as you register your company, you will also need to decide its legal structure, depending on whether you want to establish a limited liability company or a sole proprietorship. Both of these options will have different legal and financial consequences, and it is best that you weigh the pros and cons before deciding which one is the best route for you.  

Buy the Right Tools

Investing in high-quality tools will be a major financial start-up cost for your glass and glazing contractor business. From glass software that allows you to manage your business finances to a van for getting from A to B, there’s a lot you need. You will not only need to obtain the equipment to help you carry out your job, but will also need to buy safety gear for your team.

Examples of safety kit equipment include gloves, safety goggles, personal protective equipment (PPE), and a first aid kit. Generally, it is best to buy these items wholesale to cut costs and even enter into a contract with suppliers who can replenish your stock on a regular basis. 

Market Your Business

After having figured out the technical and logistical details of setting up a glass and glazing contractor business, you will need to secure clients. This will require devising a marketing strategy to promote and publicize your business. 

Start by creating a professional website where you highlight your team’s expertise and experience, and provide contact details for potential customers to get in touch regarding pricing or other needs. You can also place advertisements both online and in newspapers and conduct some old-fashioned marketing such as distributing leaflets door to door. Remember to also reach out to businesses so that your company is included in their supplier list. This will increase your chances to secure clients. 

Additionally, make sure you conduct a competitor analysis to see how they are marketing their business. You can also gain insights regarding the market price for services and either provide competitive prices or position your business to provide the lowest price guarantee. 

Bottom Line

Just like any other business, becoming a glass and glazing contractor will require you to conduct your due diligence. Remember to always stay on top of industry trends and attend workshops and seminars that particularly cater to glaziers as this can give you the latest insights regarding up-and-coming technology and industry forecasts. Doing so can enable you to offer a better service to your clients and allow you to surpass your competitors.