China, getting us ways you never thought of...

China, if it is not poisoning our Rovers & Mittens, affects the pricing on not only retail products, but it affects the cost on our construction here in the United States. As they lower some of the retail prices, they have raised the cost of construction in this country. Here is a comparison.

My father-in-law has manufactured high quality, American made, Innerspring Futon Mattresses for Noblehouse Trading http://noblehousetrading.ecrater.com/ and other retail stores for over 20 years. He has battled the Chinese imports of futon mattresses that are low quality and inferior. As his customer's have switched to stay "price" competitive, Noblehouse Trading stayed true and weathered the storm. Many of his past customer's have returned this past year, due to the uncertainity of delivery & quality of these Chinese products. But the damage of lower prices and revenues have taken their toll.

The situation above is not really any surprise to most Americans, but did you know that China , right now, is the largest purchaser of Portland Cement in the world. Portland Cement is the main ingredient used in all of our concrete applications ( Highways, Walks & Drives, brick pavers, foundations, etc..). China is building a NEW City, from scratch, to host the 2008 Summer Olympics. This requires an unprecedent amount of concrete to be laid, which will use alot of raw materials, such as Portland Cement. As we ship (export) our Portland Cement to China, a shortage here in the United States has raised the cost across the board to contractors. Blue Fox Brick Pavers, Titan Interlock, Unilock, & Fendt Builders Supply, have all experienced a 5% increase in concrete products the past 6 months. Just imagine the amount of concrete poured in this country. Just a penny per pound will result in an increase of billions of tax payer dollars for highways, city streets, etc.. ! Though it may on the surface look like a good economic move to export some products to offset the huge trade deficit, it comes at a higher cost for the end users here in the country.

Bob Villa, I'm Not....

The fact that he is 75 lbs lighter, has a larger wallet, and is NOT as good looking as myself, Bob Villa, I'm not! If you are looking for the proper pipe fit on your next weekend "do-it-yourself" plumbing job, my blogs won't always have the answer. I do have many friends in the "trades" that I share Tee times and bar tabs with to gain the knowledge and advise you seek. I do have business expertise in all areas of paving, retaining walls, landscaping, decking, general home improvement, and structured wiring.

My purpose is to make you more informed about calling, selecting, dealing, and following up, with your next contractor. I am a consumer too. So, I can offer insights from both sides, that will allow you to make a better decision and a more rewarding experience. By sharing the "inside thoughts" of a contractor (and consumer), you will be able to get a good read, much like a Poker player in No Limit Hold' em, on your next contractor dealings.

My goal is to harmonically mesh my brotherhood of contractors with the adoring & demanding public. Contracting relationships can be very personal ... it is time for you to talk to therapist "Contractor Bill". Post (talk) to Me!

Customer is King

I have never followed the rule of thumb that "Customer is King". I always posted a sign behind our reception area that read- "We have friendly staff to assist friendly customers." Both parties must have respect for each other. Both have a "need" for each other's business. When one has an upper hand, the business transaction will fail, and in the end, neither party's needs will ultimately be met.

Hello

This bricks & mortar guy has finally come to terms with the super highway of information. Now instead of barking instructions from my F150, i can use my gritty finger tips to help people understand the business of a contractor. I hope i will be useful for both sides of any business transaction.