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In our ever-changing economy, having a flexible business strategy is a must for contractors. While the construction industry overall continues to boom, the winter months can be harsh. They are characterized by a predictable downturn in business. However, it is important to keep revenue flow up during this leaner season.

There is no need to completely reinvent yourself. By simply adding in a few seasonal services, you can forge new relationships with potential clients. You may even open the door to future business when the weather improves. 

Here are a few effective tips for weathering the winter as a contractor.

Removing Snow

Let’s face it, most homeowners hate dealing with heavy snowfall on their own. Both roofs and roadways need to be cleared quickly. Many contractors already have the necessary equipment for snow removal. Even if you do not, renting the equipment is very affordable and can be quite lucrative.

While getting the word out to consumers may be tough at first, there are several cheap ways to advertise. The first is social media. As soon as that first Nor’easter slams into the area, hundreds of homeowners will likely be searching for a way to get rid of the snow. You could also pay a visit to an established customer and let the neighbors see your work firsthand.

Increase Your Service Area

While snowfall may have bogged down your city, neighboring communities may be doing business as usual. Offering your skills to a nearby city or even another state can let you tap into an underserved market. Social media will be your best means to provide cheap or free advertising. However, you must be mindful of licensing requirements when crossing state lines.

Remodeling

Interior remodeling is generally unaffected by the winter months. Since you will primarily be working inside anyway, you can stay warm and keep up your cash flow. When advertising this kind of service, you could place special emphasis on the ways that a remodel can boost home value.

In addition, many consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of their home’s efficiency. Obtaining licensing or training for energy-efficient equipment installation can help with your marketing. These projects can last well into the warmer months, as well.

Think Outside the Box

While the above tips provide excellent ways to generate revenue, they can take time. There are a few other options at your disposal that can help you to earn money more quickly. There are many tasks that people dread to do during the winter months. If you offer these services at a competitive price, you can generate a surprising amount of work.

One such task includes the sale and delivery of firewood. Delivering firewood gives you direct contact with customers. This provides a great opportunity for you to inform them about your other services. You could also ask if they would allow you to place a sign with your business information in their yard. Large packages of yard signs can be purchased relatively cheaply.

In addition to delivering firewood, you could complete decorative tasks. Hanging Christmas lights for past customers can help you to maintain bonds. When advertising, you could emphasize the dangers of climbing ladders in poor conditions. Social media and reliance on your existing relationships will be pivotal to the success of this venture.

All of these tips can help you to keep your business going strong, even in the harshest of winters. However, some of these endeavors may require additional licensing or training. RocketCert offers Virginia contractor’s licensing options through our programs, which are fully online. We also offer industry-leading continuing education courses.