A good estimator does much more than simply take measurements. The site visit is a golden opportunity to see where the flooring will be going and to assess whether or not the floor is ready. Far from being an extra complication, this is one of the most important opportunities to identify and deal with any potential problems before they arise. This could also mean increasing the value of the sale by recommending suitable preparation products to overcome any issues and, in the process, to reassure your customer of your professionalism.
What type of subfloor is the new flooring going to be laid over? Is this sound, smooth, flat and dry? These are all requirements of the British Standards for each flooring product and so it’s essential that these are assessed during the estimating visit. It is usually a good idea to avoid trying to take up any existing flooring as this might lead to a complaint if the order does not proceed, but it may be necessary to make the customer aware of any potential issues and ask the customer for permission to send round a fitter ahead of the installation just to ensure any issues are identified and any necessary preparation materials are added to the order and brought to site for the fitting.
The installation of flooring is about much more than the product the customer sees and so a good assessment of the type and condition of the subfloor will enable you to include any products that are needed to ensure a good job in the estimate, rather than trying to add them to the order after it has all been agreed. Repair mortars, surface-applied damp-proof membranes, smoothing compounds, primers and other materials add value to the sale and show you are wanting to do a professional job.
There are many helpful sources of information and guidance for estimators, not least the fitters themselves. It’s good to develop a respectful relationship and to ask questions before finishing an estimate, rather than facing negative feedback after the job has been done. And there are several excellent training courses available through the principle training providers to the industry, such as the Flooring Industry Training Association (FITA).
There are other practical considerations, too. How easy is it to park and is there a parking fee or congestion charge? Will it be easy to get the products to where they need to be? Are there potential hazards (pets, children, fresh paintwork, etc) that it will be worth telling the fitter about in advance?
And what does the customer need to know about clearing rooms and disconnecting appliances and consoles? About how the items will be delivered? (in advance for acclimatisation?) About how long the work is likely to take and what to expect on the day of fitting? The need for the correct working temperature for the fitting? Has any underfloor heating been commissioned and should it be on during the fitting? The list will grow as you gain experience, and you will become a valuable resource to your company if you keep alert and don’t simply see your role as just to get in, measure and get out as quickly as possible.
We’ll start to consider pricing in our article next month.
Please click to view more articles about
Advice