If you are wondering how to start an asphalt business, here are some suggestions to help you get off to the best possible start.
Tips on How to Start an Asphalt Business
Consider Your Market
Before investing a lot of time and money in this venture, determine whether there is a market for this service in your area. Consult the Yellow Pages and search online to find out how many other businesses in the region offer a similar service to the one you have in mind.One purpose for this market research is to figure out who your target market is (homeowners? business owners?) and what they need. In other words, what can you offer to your customers that is better, faster, or more economical than your competition can? Ask yourself why your customer should do business with you, as opposed to one of your competitors.
Draw Up a Business Plan
All business owners need to have a detailed business plan. This is the blueprint for the company's success. When arranging financing for your business, you will need to submit your business plan to the financial institution as part of the application process. If you don't know how to write a business plan, there are a number of resources you can consult to learn how to do this. Visit your local library, a bookstore, or do an online search to get help. Some business owners hire a professional to write up their business plan; this is also an option if your budget allows for it.
Find Out Whether You Need a Business License
Contact your local municipality to find out whether you are required to obtain a business license and the procedure to follow in procuring one.
Learn About the Products You Will Be Using
Before you start resurfacing someone else's driveway, familiarize yourself with the products on the market and how to use them. Be prepared to bring your product knowledge up to speed.
Find a Supplier
Once you know which products you will use for your business, find a supplier and negotiate pricing for the quantities you require.
Investigate Different Forms of Advertising
Once you have a plan and a supplier, let your potential customers know that you are in business and ready to serve them. Depending on your budget, there are a number of ways you can advertise your new venture, including:
- Distributing Flyers
- Placing an Ad in the Local Newspaper
- Knocking on Doors
- Advertising on the Radio
- Putting an Ad in the Yellow Pages and/or in a Local Business Directory
- Setting Up a Booth During Local Fairs, Home Shows, or Trade Shows
Don't forget about advertising your asphalt business online. A website can be set up relatively quickly and easily. An increasing number of people surf the Internet when looking for new products and services.
Consider the Climate in Which You Live
In northern climates, the asphalt business is seasonal. If you decide to go ahead and start your own business in one of these regions, what is your plan for earning income during the winter months.
Asphalt Business in a Box
If you have decided that starting an asphalt business makes sense for you, you may want to vist the AsphaltKingdom.com website, where a complete business-in-a-box package is offered. It includes a four-day e-mail course covering:
- Driveway Preparation
- Crack Filling
- Driveway Sealing
A sprayer for the asphalt is included in all business packages. Depending on the package chosen, other equipment and sealing supplies are included in the fee. All AsphaltKingdom.com business owners receive unlimited phone consultations through the company's 800 number.
In considering how to start a business in asphalt, there are a number of factors to keep in mind. Be prepared to do most of the work in the planning stages. The more planning you do in the initial stages, the more likely it is that you will be able to start (and run) a successful business.
