In this episode, Tim and Derek discuss the concept of "turd polishing" in contracting—finding creative, effective solutions that don’t always require tearing everything out and starting from scratch. They share real-world examples of when a simple fix saved thousands of dollars and how contractors can apply this mindset to their businesses. Instead of assuming the only way forward is complete demolition and rebuild, they explore how innovative thinking and client-centered solutions can create more opportunities and boost profitability.
In this episode, we discuss:
- The concept of "turd polishing" and why it’s a valuable tool in a contractor’s arsenal
- How rigid thinking about tear-outs can limit both income and customer satisfaction
- A real-world example of a failing ceiling repair that saved thousands with a simple approach
- The importance of balancing safety with cost-effective solutions
- How contractors can use creativity to provide value without reducing their profit margins
- Why small, efficient jobs can often be just as profitable as larger, more complex projects
- The role of trust-building in customer relationships and how smaller jobs can lead to long-term business growth
Resources:
⚔️ WAR ROOM
Ready to scale your business to $5,000,000 or more? No theory. No fluff. Pure action. Join nine other battle-tested contracting companies from across the country to tackle your biggest challenges head-on.
https://thecontractorfight.com/war-room
🧰 CONTRACTOR BUSINESS SCHOOL
If you’re serious about building a profitable, structured contracting business without the chaos, this is your shot. Get the tools, insights, and mentorship you need to level up—on YOUR time, at YOUR pace.
https://contractorbusinessschool.com/
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Grab our NEW course to grow your business
5 Steps to 5 Stars: How to Charge Premium Prices and Never Run Out of Leads
https://thecontractorfight.com/5-stars/
🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUND
Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:
https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground
💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially.
Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together!
https://thecontractorfight.com/50/
🎧 Get on the podcast!
https://thecontractorfight.com/intervention
📘 Grab a free copy of Tom’s book, Winning the Contractor Fight (just pay shipping and handling)
https://thecontractorfight.com/book/
🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber
🎙️ Listen to the podcast archives:
The Contractor Fight podcast now features nearly 1,000 episodes.
💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:
https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook
== Rate the Podcast ==
Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
The Contractor Fight with Tom Reber