By Greg Viti

Greg Viti of Prudential Rubloff

Construction is not magic! Then again sometimes the end result does appear that way. A well thought out plan with great execution is the goal. Keeping within a budget is important- however using the right materials that work together well is an art form. We all love quality- we can all sense it and want it.

I started working in construction at 18 years of age. I had not done any construction up till then so I was a perfect mentoree. Having a qualified/inspiring teacher can make all the difference. It just so happened that my first teacher/mentor in construction and woodworking happened to also be my “best friend” from childhood. I think he heard his calling in fifth grade! He showed me many fundamentals that I have used in every construction task I have ever done. Realizing the basics don’t change. When all else fails go back to the fundamentals! What great solid advice.

I learned early on to not start a project till you can see it from start to finish in your mind and then on paper. Don’t cut corners. Great work takes some time. Using the right quality materials is essential. When doing the task at hand being present is essential. Accidents can happen when one is not focused and centered. In the end, “it is not the tool but the carpenter” that makes a project a success. Don’t get me wrong the right tool sure helps, but a solid plan using quality materials can make all the difference. Once a project is complete it should give you years of pride because it is fixed right and will not need attention for years to come!

When interviewing builders, tradesmen and architects take time to ask many questions. Get referrals and call them. Go see some of the projects they have accomplished. See how their work has held up. Interview their last clients to see if they showed up and stayed on the project from start to finish. There is nothing worse than a job site that is half done and no one is showing up to complete it.

Include incentives for prompt completion in your contract. Instill in the crew your vision and pride in what is to be accomplished. Pay you crew on time and the price that was agreed. Fair is fair. Good luck with your next project- I am sure if you heed my advice it will make you proud for years to come!