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Jesse

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Posts posted by Jesse

  1. Posted · Report reply

    I just turned down an Industrial Cleaning Job Lead Near Rolla, MO if any one wants to inquire about it.

    The job is at a mine and requires the steam cleaning of the interior of a pipe which is 5' in diameter and 450' long. The pipe is for drainage and is covered in thick moss/slime. They need it cleaned to re grout with concrete. They are looking to pay a day rate and know that it will not be cheap.

    This is the engineers contact info - he is from Colorado if that matters.

    Chris Chapman 1-303-386-5033

  2. Posted · Report reply

    First, when you are cleaning these, there better not be any birds present. It is against Federal Law to disturb the nest of a migratory bird. I learned, the hard way.

    When there are no birds there you should just be able to hit it with soap and pressure to get them off. It has always worked for me.

    What I am after is the nest of a "mud wasp" that we call mud dobbers. Barn swallows also make a different type of mud and straw nests here; but luckily not on these projects.

    We have had problems in the past with mud dobber nests that are to high to hit with a good pressure. Those will often leave a round brown haze after washing the nest off and 12% and soap have worked mediocre at best at those heights.

    I have been warned about those migratory birds. We raise prawn (fresh water shrimp) in the Summer and we are not "allowed" to shoot the cranes or storks as they feast on our $14 per pound shrimp..... along with the muskrats, river otters and mud turtles. We can kill the last three but are are "encouraged" to scare off the birds with a loud flare gun that sounds like a cannon.

    Thank you for your input.

    Jesse

  3. Posted · Report reply

    I have searched for mud dobber but could not find anything with the search function. Does anyone have a chemical recommendation for removing the mud haze left behind on EFIS and aluminum soffit? My standard mix is Simple Cherry and 12% using a down streamer on a 6.5 Hydrotec.

    There is not a bit of mold - but there are tons of mud dobber nests. I am working on two very large homes 4.5 stories on the lake side and 1 story on the front. As you can tell they are on extremely steep lots (as most are here)at the Lake of the Ozarks.

    There is very little room between homes to maneuver my Coress wand so most of it will be done off a leg leveling ladders with a shooter tip. These are also $2 mill.+ homes in an exclusive community so I want to make a great impression as the go-to-guy.

    Any advice is much appreciated.

    Jesse

  4. Posted · Report reply

    who's bible was 1st and didnt all the other go after that, so wouldnt the 1st bible be the right bible. Just wondering

    I am no scholar and do not take this for fact; but as far as I know the Jews were the first to worship just one God and the Torah was the first Bible. Jesus and his followers were Rebel Jews.

  5. Posted · Report reply

    I agree that safety net is what allows us to function everyday without the absolute fear of death.

    I would never want to take away someones faith; BUT I do not want to be denied access to information that may contradict that faith either. All religions seem to have the same goal in mind - just different ways of reaching that goal.

    I find the research and speculation very interesting and without a preset dogma it is also non threatening to me. This is a good discussion. Usually threads like this do not stay civil for to long.

  7. Posted · Report reply

    It's talking about the people who are responsible for the content of the bible we read today and the interpretations interred.

    Rod!~

    Rod, IMHO that statement is the key.

    I am a Right Wing Independent that was raised in the Catholic faith. But am also a Free Thinker that will not be spoon fed what I should believe. I do not blindly trust what I have been taught. Often power corrupts and always will.

    In my opinion Science and Philosophy have always been the enemy of faith. Anyone who had the audacity to disagree with the early Churches views on the world were labeled "Heretic" - tortured and put to death in the name of Christianity. (this sounds like modern radical Islam)

    Even in this modern day of enlightenment; if Science dares to ask if we were perhaps led astray by corrupt church leaders in the ancient past it is met with extreme resistance and anger. Why is that?

    To seek knowledge is not an evil conspiracy. Is everything else that the ancient people said and believed taken in the same literal context? I do not know the answers but will always remain open minded and in search of more light.

  8. Posted · Report reply

    Jesse great latter and good way to get in the door

    I'm no expert but can I give one idea to you. The 3rd paragraph mentions IF threre's any problem you'll fix it. Just a thought how about you drop it to the 4th or 5th paragraph. The way I look at it dont mention any problems so soon in yor letter. Im not saying drop the paragraph , just dont put it up so fast. Its good to let them know you'll handle any problems that can & do occur just bury it a little, the 1st few paragraphs let your company shine and then explain the real world stuff

    I maybe wrong or it might not really matter at all, its just something I was thinking

    I like the letter and all the other stuff, insur cert, references etc. Good luck to you

    Do follow ups every once in a while and you'll get the work, I always have PM's asking if we do other maint stuff, you got that all covered which will help you a TON

    Go for it

    JL

    Thanks Jeff I think you are right and will study on it some more. I use alot of your ideas in my guerrilla marketing and it has paid off in a big way.

    Thanks again,

    Jesse

  9. Posted · Report reply

    This is the letter that I use. I will be hand delivering a bunch more of them in a yellow filing folder with company name and phone number printed on the filing tab.

    I used Jeffs advice and figured if they don't need our services right now they will at least file it away for future use if needed. They sure wont miss that yellow folder with the pre printed tab in red that is for sure :)

    January 23, 2007

    Dear Sir or Madam:

    Please allow me introduce myself and my company as a potential vendor of services. My name is Jesse R. Kirchhoff owner of Handyman Solutions LLC and we are centrally located in Jefferson City, MO.

    Handyman Solutions provides 24 Hour Emergency Service as well as a complete range of Interior & Exterior Maintenance, Repair & Installation Services for Commercial, Governmental and Residential properties.

    Handyman Solutions leads the way in customer service by providing a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If at anytime after the completion of our services should you find a workmanship problem, adjustment issue or any thing you’re not quite satisfied with, contact us immediately. We will promptly respond to the issue and do our best to make the situation right with you.

    Handyman Solutions has built an outstanding reputation on common sense, great value, and dependable service. You may rest assured that your staff will be treated with the utmost courtesy and respect while projects are completed in a timely fashion by Well-mannered, Uniformed and Skilled Technicians.

    Due to busy schedules our clients often prefer contact our office through e-mail - sending the list of repairs and even pictures of problem areas to the office. I have found this to be an outstanding use of technology and it has worked extremely well for everyone involved. It is also a wonderful way to keep costs down and ensure that all decision makers in the loop.

    We can provide professional references from many different sources such as; franchise restaurants, movie theaters, cell phone providers, doctor’s offices, commercial real estate investors, management firms, condominium associations, government agencies, cafeterias, lobbyist firms, realtors and many others at your request.

    I have taken the liberty to enclose; a W-9 form, proof of insurance, business cards and a list of most requested services. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule and I hope to be able to work with you very soon. At Handyman Solutions we will forever change the way you think about Handyman Services!

    Respectfully,

    Jesse R. Kirchhoff

    Owner

    Handyman Solutions LLC

    Enclosures (5)

    JRK

  11. Posted · Report reply

    Scott, I agree your equipment will help you with your dollar per hour increase. I know Jarrod will be touching on that subject at the St. Louis Roundtable the end of Feb.

    Hey Don,

    Can you tell me more about this St. Louis round table in Febuary? I did a search for it but could not find the info but would really like to attend if possible.

    Thanks allot,

    Jesse

  13. Posted · Report reply

    Most ACE hardwares can supply them. I had to buy a pallet - 2 drums -, It was reasonally prices... and they didnt charge me shipping

    What do you consider reasonably priced? I would sure like to order some and have it delivered to me here in town. I am paying $2 per gallon for 10% and have to drive 3 hours round trip to St. Louis and back to get it.

    Thanks allot,

    Jesse

  14. Posted · Report reply

    How do you feel about the installation of the urethane grout versus standard black sanded grout? I am referring to dry time, clean up and how well it blends with the existing grout.

    Funny thing, I first cleaned this urethane mess up and after a few years I ran into a contractor that had a nifty little trick.

    I went and looked at the job and the grout was all over the tile. Sand grout it doesn’t mater because the grout doesn’t adhere to the ceramic that easily. This urethane is ridiculous. He spread this stuff all over the tile. I couldn’t even see the tile, I thought big dollars and what a mess. He had used a candle wax on the tiles first. This job came clean ten times faster and looked 300% better than any other I had done.

    Urethane is rated 4000 to 6000 PSi regular sand is 2000psi

    Candle wax?! I never would have thought of that. I used an admix 1 time on my very first regrout job in a Perkins Restuarant job. What a nightmare! That stuff is still on the tile face.

    I will try these sealing ideas before grouting and hopefully have a much easier cleanup time.

  15. Posted · Report reply

    We charge $65 per hour with a $30 trip charge. No free estimates. Here is my contract if I missed something please let me know....there is always room for improvement.

    This agreement for Professional Gutter Maintenance Services is entered into by and between Handyman Solutions LLC, hereinafter referred to as "Contractor" and hereinafter referred to as "Owner", governing work to be performed on the property and building(s) located at Jefferson City, MO

    Owner understands and agrees that Contractor shall furnish an Estimated price for labor, material, hauling and disposal fees for the completion of work specified below. All work will be performed in a professional manner according to industry standard practices. A description of the work to be performed and the estimated fee for our services are as outlined below:

    Scope of work to be performed:

    1.Clean roof of loose leaves, tree dander, limbs and debris.

    2.Clean interior gutters and downspouts of debris (using a fish tape or high-pressure water when necessary). Inspect gutter joints for obvious signs of damage

    3.Re-secure loose gutter and drain fasteners as needed. Re-seal deteriorated gutter joints as needed. Advise Owner of any repairs exceeding the scope of this agreement. If it is determined - after the current cleaning and inspection - that the repair work will exceed the agreed upon price an estimate will be provided for the extra repairs.

    Biannual gutter inspection, cleaning and repair will occur in Fall - after most of the leaves have fallen and gutters become clogged causing ice dams. Spring - after most of the tree pollen and dander has fallen and winter ice and storms have loosened gutter fasteners and joints and dislodged remaining tree leaves and limbs.

    Owner understands and agrees that this agreement carries a term of one year and will automatically renew each year. This agreement can be cancelled at any time by Owner after the first year with at least a thirty (30) day notice to Contractor (which will avoid scheduling dilemmas). Contractor may adjust the cost of the biannual inspection & repair agreement (if necessary) after the first year by giving the purchaser at least thirty (30) days written notice of the increase.

    Total estimated labor for the first time biannual gutter inspection, cleaning and repair $200

    Total estimated labor for each consecutive gutter cleaning, inspection and repair $95

    Payment is due upon completion of services rendered and not to exceed ten (10) consecutive days after invoicing.

    Contractor reserves the right to repair, replace, or pay reasonable sums in order to effect any repairs to any mutually acknowledged deficiencies or damage caused by contractor gross negligence.

    Owner understands and agrees that if payment is not made as agreed in this contract, Owner shall pay Handyman Solutions LLC any and all costs incurred in collection of delinquent amounts including reasonable interest, attorney fees and costs of preparing and filing liens.

  16. Posted · Report reply

    I have been looking at the steam-vapor Gum Remover from Goodway.

    $2,600 for the unit but I think it would pay for itself quickly. A lot of my clients want the gum removal only because they use a cold water washer in house.

    I also like the idea of being able to do the job in daylight hours with no mess instead of soaking everything in sight with my hot water unit.

  17. Posted · Report reply

    Jesse,

    What are most frequently requested services? What services are the least profitable? What services can be offered in a yearly maintenance program?

    There is a handyman franchise here that gets $75/hr.

    TIA

    Bill

    What are most frequently requested services?

    For residential work the most requested services are to power wash, clean gutters, change light bulbs, dust/ repair/ or install ceiling fans and change out lock sets and exterior caulking.

    For commercial restaurant work by far the most requested services are tile repair and re grouting and with kitchen wall repair (FRP and drywall) from water damage. Also minor interior / exterior painting and caulking.

    Office buildings without a maintenance staff always want large artwork, marker boards and clocks hung.

    What are the most profitable offerings?

    The most profitable work is power washing and it is not done by the hour due to my large investment. There really is no least profitable work unless you count out of town night work for the franchises. I only charge 1 way for out of town and that may have to change soon.

    What services can be offered in a yearly maintenance program?

    That all depends on how you market it. I'm not a good salesman so I have never tried yearly maintenance programs.

    There is a handyman franchise here that gets $75/hr.

    I have seen #'s from $50 for an individual to $125 for a franchise per hour but most franchises will go buy a cost guide like the ones from Home tech.

    I like the hourly system because my clients like to add work while I'm there and always seem to want it thrown in for free. I will not do free estimates either unless it is for power washing.

  19. Posted · Report reply

    A little more info from DUCTBUSTERS®

    Dryer Fires - A Common Problem

    Lack of maintenance is the leading cause of dryer fires with lint sited as the leading material to ignite. The fires may be caused by:

    • Failure of mechanical and/or electrical parts within the dryer
    • Improper materials placed in the dryer
    • Insufficient airflow as a result of improper installation

    Dryer Cleaning - A Simple Solution

    Unlike many health and safety issues we are faced with in the home, this safety problems has an easy and economical solution. The best way to prevent the possibility of a dryer fire harming your family is with a thorough dryer inspection by the professionals at DUCTBUSTERS®.

    A key to effective dryer performance is optimal airflow. A properly installed all-metal dryer vent will help ensure this airflow. DUCTBUSTERS® will check to ensure there is proper airflow for the dryer and that the right equipment is in use.

    Causes & Cures of Dryer Fires

    Reduced airflow and lint build-up cause overheating and prevent fast drying action. When this happens, the high temperature limit safety switches cycle on and off continuously and thus may fail over a period of time. This results in higher costs of operation and could result in a costly and dangerous dryer fire.

    DUCTBUSTERS® uses a variety of specialized tools and procedures to clean dryer vent ductwork. The entire process usually takes about one hour. However, cleaning is only one part of our service. The dryer vent is also inspected for several mechanical issues that should be checked by a professional duct cleaner. DUCTBUSTERS® is the qualified choice.

    BACK TO TOP^

    Advance Warning Signs

    • Clothes (especially towels or jeans) take a very long time to dry.
    • Clothes are hotter than usual at the end of the cycle.
    • Flapper on vent hood doesn't open when dryer is on.

    If you notice any of these signs, schedule a professional dryer cleaning or inspection immediately. You could save money and even your life with this simple procedure.

    BACK TO TOP^

    Technicians Cleaning Checklist - Schedule Today!

    • Dryer duct must be at least 4" diameter and as large as dryer outlet.
    • Concealed ducts must be rigid metal (galvanized or aluminum) duct.
    • Duct joints shall be secured with metal tape, never screws or rivets.
    • Joints are installed so the pipe connections point in the direction of the airflow (away from the dryer).
    • Dryer vents shall be independent of all other systems and terminate outdoors. (Do not vent into another chimney or vent) Outside termination hood should be equipped with a backdraft damper.
    • Use of flexible metal connectors between the dryer and the duct. Plastic connector ducting is not recommended.
    • Assure the rodent and bird screen protection is intact.

    BACK TO TOP^

    Save Money Starting Today!

    The use of proper venting materials helps to achieve maximum performance, which could extend the life of your dryer. When clothes are given the appropriate amount of air, they dry quicker, are subject to less tumbling, and result in less electric or gas usage from your dryer. There's also less wear and tear on your clothing, increasing the life of your clothing. Think of the savings!

  21. Posted · Report reply

    I noticed that you listed 'Clean lint from dryer motor, hoses and vents'.

    I saw a truck in town the other day with a new magnetic sign for 'Advanced Dryer Vent Cleaning'. I guess that there is a market for this.

    Who woulda thunk it?

    From Ann Landers:

    Check Those Clothes-Dryer Vents!

    Dear Ann Landers:

    I'm writing about your recent column regarding clothes-dryer vents and fires. Ann, my husband and I have a company that specializes in cleaning dryer vents, so I am more than familiar with the dangers. Clothes dryers start more residential fires than any other appliance.

    The Consumer Products Safety Commission estimates that there are more than 24000 dryer fires each year in the United States, causing more than 96 million in property damage. Lack of vent maintenance is leading cause of dryer fires, and lent which is a hidden fire hazard is the material most likely to ignite. Even a cleaned lint screen traps only 75% of the lint.

    When lint builds up in dryer vents, the dryer motor has to labor harder and can overheat, igniting the lint. It isn't just clothes-dryer vent hoses that need to be checked, Ann. Clogged lint-screen compartments, disconnected or ripped dryer-vent hoses, smashed hoses behind the clothes dryer, bird nests in dryer vents, poor dryer-vent design, screens placed over the exhaust point, use of white plastic vent hoses instead of aluminum foil ones-all produce the same blockage, and all cause dryer fires. All these fires are preventable. Please get the word out.

    S.S in Oceanside, California

    Dear Oceanside: The word is out, thanks to you. Because I don't know much about clothes dryers, I was unaware of this hazard. I now know a lot more than I did. Read on:

    From Green Bay WI:

    Recently you had an article from a reader about how the lint from clothes dryers could start a fire. When I read that I asked my husband to check the vent hoses. He reluctantly said, "I'll get to it tomorrow." Thank God that I was home because the lint in the dryer caught fire before my husband every got to it. Waiting an extra day was almost too late for us. Please tell your readers to get the lint out of their dryers and vent hoses today.

    From Independence MO:

    My husband and I are very thankful to the reader who shared her problem about clogged dryer vents. When my husband read that column to me, I decided to check our dryer, I pulled out the hose and much to my surprise, found it was ripped and brimming with lint. We were wondering why it took three cycles before our clothes were even partially dry.

    Orlando FL:

    Bless you for printing that information about dryer vents. For months, my clothes had been taking longer and longer to dry. After reading that column, I decided to check the vent. Not only was it clogged with lint, but also the flap at the end was stuck in an almost-closed position. I am grateful to that reader not only for helping me avoid a fire but also for helping me avoid a fire but also for a lower electric bill.

    Clothes Dryers -- A Fire Hazard to Know About

    Clothes Dryers Fire Statistics

    In 1997, according to the United States Consumer Products Safety Commission, there were 16,800 residential fires reported and responded to by fire departments where the source of the fire was the clothes dryer or vent. These fires caused $97.3 million in damage, 430 civilian injuries, and 30 civilian deaths.1

    What Causes Clothes Dryer Fires?

    Clothes dryers must vent hot air from the dryer to the outside of the house. Lint becomes detached from the clothes and is carried out through the exhaust.

    If lint builds up in the exhaust pipe or inside the dryer, it slows the air movement through the dryer and out the exhaust. The slower air movement causes more lint to collect on the backside of the dryer drum, on the dryer motor, or on the electrical connections inside the dryer, placing the highly combustible lint on top of and adjacent to heat sources inside the dryer.

    Keeping the exhaust pipe clear of lint keeps the airflow moving efficiently and reduces the amount of lint collecting inside the dryer, thus reducing the chances of fire.

    What Can a Homeowner Do?

    Using the right type of exhaust pipe is the first step in reducing lint buildup. Some vents are made of plastic-coated flexible wire. The 4" diameter white-plastic or aluminum-foil exhaust duct typically used to exhaust the heated air from clothes dryers can create a dangerous fire hazard if not inspected regularly and kept clean of lint. The ribbed surface inside can slow the air movement and catch lint.

    A better solution is using sheet metal vent pipes. They are more fire resistant and can help contain a fire should one start. Another advantage of sheet metal vent pipes is the rigid metal cannot be smashed in between the wall and the dryer as easily as plastic vents.

    To facilitate airflow the exhaust pipe should be as short as possible and have a limited number of bends. When designing your home or locating the clothes dryer, place it near an outside wall. Also use pop rivets, and not screws, to connect metal vent pipe pieces. The pop rivets do not collect as much lint as the threaded ends of screws inside the vent pipe.

    And finally, properly maintain the dryer by cleaning the lint out of the exhaust pipe and the exhaust of the dryer once a year. Not only will you be reducing the chances of a dryer fire, but this should result in faster drying times and energy savings also.

    1"1997 Residential Fire Loss Estimates", Table 1 Estimated Fire Losses in Residential Structures -- Selected Equipment, 1997; U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

  22. Posted · Report reply

    Do you get into building on rooms or anything like that? Or carports, stuff like that? It's extremely difficult to find somebody around here to do things like that nowadays. All the contractors don't mess with it at the time because the housing market is still so booming.

    Nope. I gave all of that up when I quit remodeling and refer other contractors that I still trust for those jobs.

    I'm not getting rich but I am doing OK working an average of 30 hours a week (stress free) and really enjoy it. I even offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee (not long ago that would have been impossible) on all my work. The rest of the time is spent on marketing and researching forums like this to improve the process.

    I have sold 49% of my other business Advanced Power Washing and Restoration solutions LLC to my sub that helps me with Handyman Solutions LLC. It is being revived (thanks to all of Jeff's and other's great Condo and flatwork posts getting me motivated) and will focus on large commercial environmental cleaning only.

  23. Posted · Report reply

    Jesse.....how many employees do you have now?

    None.

    At one time I had 6 (none ever lasted very long) and was'nt’t making a dime and my customers always seemed to be angry. It was out of control. All the good help worked for the Union or had already started their own business and were in the same situation as I was (broke and looking for good help).

    I finally got fed up and redid my business model (based on handyman franchises) to focus only on handyman work on HOA's, office buildings and franchise restaurants.

    I use 1 like minded sub that grasped my vision for my company while trying to start his own painting business. He decided it was more beneficial to him to stick with me and follow my lead. He makes 40% of the labor, basically $24 + and does not have to did jobs or return calls. Yes he is insured and drives his own truck with my magnets on it.

    Here are the things we do….don’t laugh :) ..... I change a LOT of light bulbs, dust ceiling fans and remove cobwebs from vaulted cielings. There is a market nitch for this stuff and handyman franchises that are doing very well at it. That is how I came up with my business model.

    A small sample of our most requested

    Residential / Commercial services

    General Interior

    Hang artwork, mirrors, shelves, ect…

    Replace hard to access light bulbs or fixtures

    High dusting and cobweb removal

    Replace door hardware and accessories

    Repair or clean ceiling fans and parts

    Install curtain rods and mini blinds

    Clean lint from dryer motor, hoses and vents

    Install closet and garage shelves / organizers

    Repair drywall, texture and paint

    Install electrical fixtures to existing receptacles

    Caulk tubs, baseboard, sinks, and tile

    Install bathroom accessories, towel racks, etc.

    Install handicap hardware and accessories

    Replace water damaged drywall, tile and FRP board

    General Exterior

    Professional low-pressure power washing

    Repair storm and wind damage

    Clean & seal exterior concrete and brick

    Clean and repair rain gutters

    Replace exterior light bulbs and fixtures

    Re-caulk doors, windows, cracks and voids

    Technician man-hours billed by Handyman Solutions shall include all of the productive labor time normally associated with the customer’s project and any other time spent on behalf of the customer, including but not limited to:

    • Evaluation of project (at owners request) to provide Owner with an estimated cost for completion.

    • Technician hourly rate of $60 per man-hour (special discounts may apply), with a minimum charge of one (1) man-hour. Time incurred over one hour will be billed at fifteen minute increments.

    • Pick up and delivery of materials, plus standard 20% markup over cost for materials purchased by Contractor on behalf of the customer. (Owner can save money by having materials on-site, ready for installation)

    • Disposal fees for any waste material which must be removed from worksite.

    • Small trip charge of $30 applied to all individual invoices.

    • Payment is due upon completion unless prior arrangements are made before work begins.

    Sorry for the long post. I have been talking to much lately.

    Jesse

  24. Posted · Report reply

    i haven't read that much since college, and I'm talking about ALL of college

    Ya I know.... its pretty wordy and the guys that I used to hire were not real big on reading or following any of the rules that were layed out. They never could grasp the type of business I was trying to build for my family.

    I'm sure happy those days are behind me.

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