The Contractor Fight with Tom Reber

TCF995: Turd Polishing

Mar 1, 2025

Discover the concept of 'turd polishing'—innovative fixes that save time and money without starting from scratch. Hear how a simple ceiling repair example saved thousands and the importance of avoiding rigid thinking in contracting. Explore the balance between safety and cost-effective solutions while maximizing client trust. Learn how creativity can drive profitability and why small jobs can be just as lucrative as large projects. Unlock the potential for long-term business growth through efficient and strategic project management.

11:36

Creator website

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

The concept of 'turd polishing' allows contractors to implement creative and cost-effective solutions instead of resorting to complete project overhauls.

Prioritizing safety and trust-building with clients through innovative repairs can enhance customer satisfaction and open new business opportunities.

Deep dives

Creative Problem-Solving in Construction

The discussion highlights that contractors often feel compelled to completely tear out and start over with projects rather than exploring less drastic alternatives. A recent experience with collapsing ceilings illustrates this point, where the hosts faced a significant repair bill but instead considered using innovative techniques to address the issue more cost-effectively. By securing the existing drywall with screws rather than ripping everything out, they not only reduce costs but also maintain safety for the family living in the house. This approach encourages contractors to think creatively and find solutions that satisfy client needs while being cost-effective.

Intro

5min

Maximizing Efficiency and Profitability in Contracting

2min

Innovative Solutions for Home Repair Challenges

2min

Maximizing Client Trust Through Strategic Project Management

3min

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.