Deck Guy

I'm more-or-less with Phillip. For example...I do get referrals from the local Sherwin Williams store here, since I was their #1 customer last year for stain. I explained to them last year though, that I was moving toward another product, but would use them when the job called for a semi-transparent stain (I am so done with solids). I also stopped by in the winter a few times to shoot the sh*t there, and bought them lunch (pizzas) once. It's on my way to my full-time job. I ordered 7 gallons of Deckscapes for a fence just this past Saturday to match a deck I did last fall, and brought a sample board of RS so they could see it. They thought it compared to their toner in appearance (it does), but when I explained about ease of application and maintenence, they got it. I'm betting that they appreciate my professionalism in showing them the RS, and not beating around the bush about why they may see less sales from me. I'm also betting they will still refer anyone who asks about a wooodie, to me. Then I'll decide what I use for a given project, based on my assesment, and the customers needs/wishes.

I'm thinking that Goof Off is laquer thinner, packaged and marketed a bit more smoothly, then marked up 500%.

A mild stripper should do it. Thompsons is crap.

If it's not too old, try mineral spirits. Otherwise, try laquer thinner, but test in an inconspicuous spot.

Spring has sprung here too...Yahooooo! The phone is ringing! My helper is on spring break the last week of March, and I plan on keeping him busy.

I made an X-jet bucket with a free square fiver (I keep several on hand) from the car wash, drilled cap out (it's already threaded)bought a drop tube and hose barb from farm supply store, used hose that came with x-jet and found a 3/8 barbed shut-off on ebay. Total cost...about $10.

I didn't have time to read the entire page, but it looks like a completely balanced and unbiased source. GOOD FIND!

It's a waste of money and effort. Get a 4010 tip, and practice, practice, practice.

Do a search on this topic, and you'll find plenty. We've gone 'round and 'round on this one!

Shoot some starting fluid down the carb. If it kicks off, then dies, fuel flow is your most likely suspect. Sometimes just getting it it started once is all it will take.

Mark, I'm at the wrong computer now, but Ican hook youup with a company that you can design the sign on a template of the truck, then order the decal. Hold tight, and I'll be back Sat. A.M. with a link.

I've heard good things about RPC's Magnum wand. He had them custom made for him, but I'm not sure if he still sells them.

I'm with Walters. I asked for quotes from two different commercial agents here last year, and didn't even get the courtesy of a return call. Seems they just don't want the small premiums. Having said that, my $600 a year for $300,000 sounds a bit steep compared to what you guys are paying. I've never had a claim after three years.

Summerfest ROCKS!!! I saw my first marijuana bust there in about 1978. I think it was the Atlanta Rhythm Section show?? Lots of outstanding bands every year. Anyway,I'll stop by next time I'm up.

Everyone ships what you need. Who/what do you use now?? What type work do you do??

I'm with Ken. Don't waste your money. If you're only doing the area near the house by hand, how much time will this save vs. your current method, considering set-up and clean-up, if it even works in the first place? I usually only have to do a few boards near the house, then prop a large piece of cardboard between the area I'm working and the house, and spray away!

I use 80 grit with both a RO and a belt sander. The belt sander will remove a lot of material very quickly, which is great, once youlearn to control it. I've never had any problems with the RO.

Or could it beeeeeeeee.........SATAN!

I thought The Da Vince Code was a novel! Or is it just some way the liberals are sneaking their anti-christian values into our society??? Hmmmm...? Why feel insulted by fiction? The Grimm brothers stuff gave me nightmares as a kid, but I don't get P.O.'d about it. It's like the muslims in regard to Salmon Rushdie. I said the same thing then...get over it, it's a novel! Man...I really am trying to break my addiction to jumping in on this type thread... Hi, my name's Larry, and I'm a political/religion thread-a-holic... Back to sitting on my hands now.

See how good I'm doing at staying out of this type discussion (my new resolution)! I'm so proud of myself!

I was wondering what my wife was doing on the phone all day! Anyone else get her call? :)

I'm not saying that it isn't important. I guess I should say that it doesn't GENERATE much business for me, but it definitely helped me book the work. I believe that it is a necessary tool, I just can't picture many of my customers using the internet as their initial means to find a deck guy. I have more success from active advertising which leads then to my website for more info if they want it. Does that make more sense?

Bureau of Alchohol, Tobacco, and Firearms?

I don't think my website got me any business. It does however sell my company to customers who have seen my ad or business card. I get alot of people who say,"My deck looks like the 'before' pictures on your website." Several of the $1000+ decks I did last year were because those people could see my results with their own two eyes, even before calling me. These customers are easy to close in one call, because they know what you can do before you ever show up to give a quote.

I'm not even sure I want to go here...but what is the right way? I do it in a way that works for me...and that I can sell...and be profitable. I'm sure the guy who charges basically the same (per deck), but measures differently and charges twice per sq. ft. fells the same. More power to him if it works for him.